Podcasts about dear church

It's been a minute, but I'm back on the mic. This one? Whew. I'm talking BeGratitudes, messy church clips, decolonizing faith, and why, after all the drama, we still gotta love anyway. Listen to 'Dear Church, It's Me Tracy - Pt. 1'Love, Truth & No Filters'.

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris sits down with Jeremy Weekley, preaching minister at the West End Church of Christ in Knoxville, TN, and co-host of the Not Just Sundays podcast. Together, they dive into the biblical role of shepherds (elders) in the church and what it truly means to shepherd God's people. They discuss the heart of leadership, the responsibilities of elders, and how shepherding strengthens the church family.   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurchPodcast #ShepherdingTheSheep #ChurchLeadership #EldersInTheChurch #SpiritualLeadership #ChristianPodcast #ChurchMinistry #FaithAndLeadership #BiblicalTeaching #Discipleship #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianLiving #PastoralCare #FaithPodcast #ChristianCommunity

Dear Church: SARDIS | Revelation 3:1-6 | Benji Horning

With this talk, we wrap up our Dear Church series. We end up in Laodicea, in Revelation 3:14-22, the lukewarm church. We'll unpack what Jesus said to them and how we might guard against that in our own lives. 

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris talks with JD Schwartz, youth minister at Graymere Church of Christ, about one of the most important questions parents and ministers face: When is a young person ready for baptism? Together they discuss how to discern spiritual readiness, the role of parents in guiding their children, and why rushing or delaying baptism can both bring challenges. Drawing from JD's decades of experience working with teens and families, this conversation offers wisdom and encouragement for anyone navigating this crucial step of faith.   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurchPodcast #JDSchwartz #YouthMinistry #Baptism #FaithDecisions #ChristianPodcast #ParentingAndFaith #RaisingFaithfulKids #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianLiving #YouthFaith #FaithJourney #ChristianParents #Discipleship #TeenFaith  

Sabbatical Recap: Benji Horning | Dear Church: Letter to Laodicea | Revelation 3:14-22 | Nate Gushwa

We continue our Dear Church series, looking at the letter to the church in Philadelphia. It's a wonderful word of encouragement, spoken to a people who had stayed faithful through thick and thin. We'll take a look at Christ's promise to them, and what that might mean for us.

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris sits down with Zane Perkins, longtime minister, missionary, and counselor, to talk about Living in Harmony. Zane shares how a Christ-centered perspective and healthy communication can strengthen your home, workplace, and relationships. Drawing from years of ministry experience in Chile and his work with Sunset International Bible Institute, Zane unpacks practical tools for navigating conflict, embracing different perspectives, and building deeper connections that reflect the love of Christ.   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.  

Dear Church: Letter to Philadelphia | Revelation 3:7-13 | Bill Dogterom

We continue our Dear Church series, looking at the letter to the church in Sardis. The passage is from Revelation 3:1-6, and looks at the theme of being 'alive but spiritually dead'. We unpack what that might look like in today's context. (The second video not included on this recording can be found online by searching for Bible Project - How To Read Apocalyptic Literature.)

Grant brings us part 3 of our series titled Dear Church

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris talks with Margaret Cole about her work with Care Net, a pregnancy resource center in Dickson County. They discuss the vital role CareNet plays in supporting women, families, and the community through compassionate care, resources, and faith-driven guidance. Margaret shares how her ministry experience helps her walk alongside those in need and how the church can be a greater partner in this important mission.     Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurchPodcast #CareNet #PregnancyResourceCenter #FaithInAction #ChristianService #ChurchOutreach #ProLifeMinistry #FaithAndCommunity #ChristianPodcast #ServingOthers #ChurchMinistry #ChristianLiving #FaithJourney #MinistryWork #ServingWithLove    

Dear Church: Letter to Thyatira | Revelation 2:18-29 | Rob Chifokoyo

Jack Story and Nick Wolf—two experienced financial advisers—join Chris to talk about how ministers can prepare for retirement, the unique financial challenges they face, and what churches should consider when supporting their ministers long-term.   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurch #MinisterRetirement #ChristianFinance #ChurchLeadership #PastorCare #FinancialPlanning #RetirementPlanning #JackStory #NickWolf #ChrisMcCurley #RippleOfLight

Dear Church: Letter to Pergamum | Revelation 2:12-17 | Stevy York

Phil brings the first message in our new series titled Dear God.

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Lee Snow, minister at the Warm Springs Road Church of Christ in Columbus, GA. Together they explore how ministers can wisely and effectively navigate social media. From outreach opportunities to the challenges of staying authentic online, Lee—who also creates comedic content—shares his experience in using digital platforms to both laugh and connect. This episode offers practical insight for any church leader looking to engage culture while keeping the Gospel central.   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurch #ChrisMcCurley #LeeSnow #ChurchOnline #ChristianContent #MinisterLife #SocialMediaMinistry #FaithOnline #ChurchLeadership #ChristianInfluencer

Dear Church: Letter to Smyrna | Revelation 2:8-11 | Stevy York

Have you ever ran out of gas before? You thought you had enough to make it to your destination but not quite.In this message, Pastor Kevin will walk us through running on fumes in our lives.

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Chris Webb, an experienced insurance agent, to discuss the often-overlooked topic of insurance options for ministers. From health and life insurance to retirement planning and church-provided benefits, this conversation highlights what ministers and church leaders need to know about taking care of those who serve. Whether you're in ministry or helping lead a congregation, this episode offers valuable insight into supporting ministers with practical, long-term care.   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurch #ChrisMcCurley #MinisterSupport #ChurchLeadership #MinistryLife #MinisterBenefits #InsuranceForMinisters #ChurchFinance #ChristianMinistry #FaithAndFinances

Dear Church: Letter to Ephesus | Revelation 2:1-7 | Rob Chifokoyo

Revelation 3:1-6

Last week we started talking about how we walk. We are walking in love, light and to walk in wisdom.In this message we get to take a look further into Ephesians 5. We try to fill our lives with wine, with escapes, with lesser things, when God is offering living water. What are you full of? What have you been running to?

The last time we were in Ephesians, we spent 2 weeks talking about what to put off and put on as we walk out the new us.In this message, Pastor Kevin will break down how we get to focus on how we walk.

Revelation / Dear Church, I love you | The Setting | Revelation 1:1-8 | Stevy York

Is “holiness” just an outdated religious word—or could it be the very thing we need most right now? In this week's message from our Dear Church series, Pastor Jon explores Jesus' powerful letter to the church in Thyatira—a group of believers praised for their love but corrected for their compromise. Together, we'll unpack how true holiness is not just a description of God's perfection, but also a direction for us, believers—about becoming more like Jesus in a world that constantly pulls us away from Him. This message is for anyone who's ever felt like following Jesus means swimming upstream. Learn what it means to hold fast to truth, live set apart, and reflect God's love with grace and conviction.

Revelation 2:12-1712 “And to the angel of the church in Pergamum write: ‘The words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword.13 “‘I know where you dwell, where Satan's throne is. Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith[a] even in the days of Antipas my faithful witness, who was killed among you, where Satan dwells. 14 But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, so that they might eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality. 15 So also you have some who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth. 17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, with a new name written on the stone that no one knows except the one who receives it.'

What if church wasn't just a place you go—but something you embraced?In this message from our "Dear Church…" series, Lead Pastor Greg Lee challenges us to move beyond hesitation or rejection and embrace the Church as Paul envisioned it. With all its imperfections and beauty, the Church is still God's chosen way to show grace to the world.Rooted in Paul's letters and filled with ancient but incredibly relevant wisdom, this message invites you to embrace a deeper connection to Scripture, community, and purpose.Whether you've been burned by church, bored by it, or blessed through it—this one's for you.

How do you stay faithful when life falls apart? This week at Mission Grove Church, Pastor Jon Kragel continues our Dear Church series with a powerful message to the church in Smyrna. In Revelation 2:8–11, Jesus acknowledges their suffering and calls them to faithfulness in the fire. Why? Because God's presence is greater than life's pressure.

In this powerful episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Drew Kizer, preaching minister at Ashville Road Church of Christ, to discuss the challenges and strength found in preaching through adversity. Drew shares how his 13-year battle with early onset Parkinson's Disease has shaped his faith, perspective, and preaching. With a B.A. in Bible and M.A. in New Testament from Freed-Hardeman University, Drew brings theological depth, vulnerability, and hope to the pulpit. He opens up about how chronic illness has refined his ministry, and how God continues to provide strength in the midst of weakness.   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurch #DrewKizer #ChrisMcCurley #ChristianPodcast #PreachingThroughAdversity #FaithAndSuffering #ParkinsonsTestimony #AshvilleRoadChurch #PreacherEncouragement #GodsStrength #MinistryChallenges #BibleTeaching #ChronicIllnessAndFaith #SermonLife #MinistrySupport #NewTestamentTeaching #GospelMinistry #RippleOfLight #FromCaptivesToTheCross #ChurchPodcast

Last week, we were challenged to "put off" our old life by taming our tongue, watching our temper, and turning from temptation.In this message, we will continue to walk through how Paul instructs us to "put on" our grace clothes and trading who we were to who God created us to be.

Stand-Alone Series

Is it possible to stay spiritually connected when life never slows down? In this second message of our Dear Church series, Pastor Jon Kragel unpacks Jesus' words to the Church in Ephesus—a group of believers who were busy, disciplined, and doctrinally sound, but had lost something essential: their love. Jesus gives a clear warning and a practical path forward: Remember. Repent. Redo. Because a church—or a person—that leaves their love will lose their light.

We were dead, but made alive in Christ, brought near, and made into His family. That's what Paul tells us in Ephesians.In this message, we take a dive back into Ephesians 4 and 5. We get to see what are things we can do to turn from our old selves and live new in God.

Scripture: Luke 7:36-50 Dear Church, A lot of people were too holy for Jesus. People found plenty of things to dislike about Jesus, but his habit of sharing meals with people really triggered them.  In all four gospels, critics accused Jesus of being a glutton, a drunkard, unrighteous and unworthy.  And they really didn't like … Continue reading "Supper Club-Week 1 // Sharing Meals with Jesus // Pastor Kate Murphy"

Scripture: Galatians 2:1-21 Dear Church, You know what I thought we'd leave behind in the empty tomb? Conflict. I used to think that all the misunderstandings and mistakes and tension and emotional pain of community would disappear in the lives and churches of people who really love and follow the Lord.  Like…in the really, really, … Continue reading "Here and Now-Week 4 // Holy Conflict // Pastor Kate Murphy"

SCRIPTURE PASSAGESRevelation 2:1-7 Reflection Questions Subscribe!YouTubeSpotifyApple Podcasts

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17, 1 Peter 1:3, Acts 4:23-37 Dear Church, What do you pray for on the other side of resurrection?  When the risen Lord shows us that none of the powers and principalities that threaten to destroy us have the power to do so, when we see the empty tomb and know that … Continue reading "Here+Now-Week 3 // Boldness & Generosity // Pastor Kate Murphy"

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley talks with Melvin Otey, a preacher, lawyer, and professor at Faulkner University. Melvin shares his powerful journey from pursuing a successful career in law to answering the call to full-time ministry. He opens up about how he came to Christ, what led him to leave the courtroom for the pulpit, and the ways his legal background still shapes his faith and ministry. It's a story of surrender, purpose, and God's calling. Whether you're in law, ministry, or just seeking God's direction for your life—this conversation will challenge and inspire you.     To learn more about The Quarterly, visit https://cobbpublishing.com/quarterly   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurch #MelvinOtey #FaithJourney #FromLawToMinistry #ChristianTestimony #CalledToPreach #AttorneyAndMinister #GodsCalling

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Jovan Payes to tackle a challenging and important question: Is God racist? Together, they address criticisms that culture and skeptics often raise about the Bible, especially regarding topics like slavery and racism. They unpack how to respond to these difficult questions with truth, clarity, and love—showing that God's character is consistently just, merciful, and loving from Genesis to Revelation.   To learn more about visiting the Bible Lands, visit  https://www.fhu.edu/dearchurch   Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurch #ChristianPodcast #IsGodRacist #BibleQuestions #ChristianApologetics #FaithAndCulture #BiblicalTruth #GodIsLove #JovanPayes

The Source | Dear Church People | Week 4 | Jared Callahan

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Dr. Ryan Fraser—professor, counselor, and author of Overcoming the Blues. They explore the intersection of faith and mental health, diving into topics like anxiety, depression, culture, and the emotional challenges facing Gen Z. Dr. Fraser brings a biblical and compassionate approach to navigating the struggles so many face today, offering hope, healing, and practical tools for Christian living. Dr. Ryan Fraser holds advanced degrees in Ministry, Divinity, and Pastoral Counseling, and teaches at Freed-Hardeman University. His work focuses on equipping believers to walk through life's hardships with resilience and faith.   To learn more about Ministry Education, visit  https://www.fhu.edu/dearchurch   To Check Out The Ivory Domino, visit https://cobbpublishing.com   “Like a Morning Cloud”... April 13th-16th on the beautiful campus of Crowley's Ridge College AND online at YouTube.com/@CRCPioneers. Visit https://crc.edu/home/lectureship/ for more information.     Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurch #ChristianPodcast #MentalHealth #FaithAndAnxiety #GenZ #Christianity #HopeInJesus #OvercomingTheBlues #RyanFraser

In this episode, Chris McCurley sits down with Joseph Horton, the preaching minister at Winchester Church of Christ in Winchester, TN. They discuss what Christians should be doing while waiting for Jesus' return and how to live faithfully after baptism. What does it mean to actively walk in faith instead of just waiting? Tune in for a practical discussion on staying committed, growing spiritually, and fulfilling God's purpose in our daily lives.     Check Out “War in Heaven War on Earth” https://www.amazon.com/War-Heaven-Earth-Revelation-Original/dp/1947622951   To learn more about Ministry Education, visit  https://www.fhu.edu/dearchurch   “Like a Morning Cloud”... April 13th-16th on the beautiful campus of Crowley's Ridge College AND online at YouTube.com/@CRCPioneers. Visit https://crc.edu/home/lectureship/ for more information.     Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurch #ChristianPodcast #FaithJourney #BiblicalTeaching #ChristianLiving #LifeAfterBaptism #FollowingJesus #WaitingOnTheLord

In this heartfelt episode, Chris McCurley sits down with Judy Hinson, a fellow member at Walnut Street Church of Christ, to discuss faith in the face of adversity. Judy shares her personal journey through battling cancer and the heartbreaking loss of two of her grandchildren. Through it all, she has remained steadfast in her trust in God. Join us for a powerful conversation about grief, perseverance, and the unwavering hope found in Christ.     To learn more about The Quarterly, visit https://cobbpublishing.com/quarterly   “Like a Morning Cloud”... April 13th-16th on the beautiful campus of Crowley's Ridge College AND online at YouTube.com/@CRCPioneers. Visit https://crc.edu/home/lectureship/ for more information.     Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #ChristianPodcast #Faith #Adversity #TrustingGod #Perseverance #Suffering #Hope #Encouragement #Loss #ChristianLiving #Testimony #WalnutStreetChurchOfChrist #ChrisMcCurley #DearChurch #Podcast #SpiritualStrength

In this episode, Chris McCurley sits down with Thomas Southerland, preacher at Water Street Church of Christ in Charlotte, TN, to discuss the importance of church relationships. They explore how churches should interact with one another and engage with their communities to strengthen faith and outreach.   To learn more about The Quarterly, visit https://cobbpublishing.com/quarterly   Visit https://crc.edu/home/lectureship/ for more information   “Like a Morning Cloud”... April 13th-16th on the beautiful campus of Crowley's Ridge College AND online at YouTube.com/@CRCPioneers.     Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurchPodcast #ChristianPodcast #MinistryLeadership #ChurchLife #churchunity #outreach #gospel