Podcasts about disciples

Today, Gavi FINALLY gets to talk about his favorite topic, Jean Beaudrillard's "Simulacra and Simulation," which explains Hyperreality. "The Matrix" film is allegorical to the postmodern condition of Hyperreality. We discuss examples of simulacra, Hyperreality, and the history of how we (in the western canon) came to view the world this way. We discuss simulated reality as it relates to christian fundamentalism and the US.If you have any thoughts, opinions, or questions about this topic (or corrections) please let us know either by comment or by emailing us at LeavingEdenPod@gmail.com! We would love to do a listener responses episdoe!02:00 - Intro02:20 - Black Mirror San Junipero03:15 - The Matrix03:30 - Elon Musk03:48 - Mark Zuckerberg and the Metaverse04:10 - Please subscribe to our Patreon!04:40 - Media Theory and Philosophy05:17 - I'm sorry for mixing up SimulaCRA and SimulaCRUM05:47 - Jean Baudrillard's "Hyperreality"06:04 - Simulacra and Simulation07:10 - First Order Simulacrum07:40 - Second Order Simulacrum07:55 - Third Order Simulacrum, Hyperreality08:29 - Fourth Order Simulacrum, or Pure Simulation08:50 - Alexander Hamilton to Scamilton is Hyperreality11:07 - Christian Nationalism and Hyperreality12:54 - Hyperreality and Pure Simulation are curated reality13:30 - Did Sadie grow up in a simulation?13:50 - Kim Kardashian's butt broke the internet14:54 - The 6 7 meme is proof that we are living in a simulation15:30 - Doot Doot 6 7 by Skrilla15:50 - Lamello Ball16:00 - The 6 7 kid is Hyperreality and the meme is pure simulation17:19 - Brainrot is hyperreality18:50 - Thank you to our patrons!20:17 - The Civil War and the birth of Modernism21:50 - Modernist themes, truth comes from struggle and effort22:17 - Upton Sinclair, The Jungle22:30 - John Steinbeck, The Grapes of Wrath22:50 - Gone With the Wind24:00 - Little Women24:34 - The Civil War, Transcendentalism, Naturalism25:05 - The birth of postmodernism25:15 - Dada art movement (dadaism)25:26 - Anything can be a source of truth25:30 - The gifts of postmodernism, Civil rights, LGBT rights, Women's Lib movement25:55 - World War 2 and the nuclear age27:10 - Love is Blind, Kobe Bryant, Fresh off the Boat, Scottish Independence referendum28:45 - Absurdism, Memes, and Breadtube Spongebob29:04 - The drawbacks of postmodernism30:00 - Hyperreality, 9/1131:22 - Loss of sense of self32:04 - Michael Jackson, Prince, Robin Williams, George Carlin, Jesus, AI Deepfakes32:35 - Leonard Cohen32:50 - Bag Culture, Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, Jason Kelce, Commercials34:35 - Prince Harry and Meghan Markle36:28 - Please email us!37:01 - Our current state of Hyperreality37:31 - Doctors vs. Anti-Vaxxers and influencers37:41 - Teachers vs. Homeschoolers38:07 - Doomerism38:17 - It's going to be OK?38:38 - The early church38:50 - Jesus was a guy (probably?)39:11 - The Disciples (first order Simulacrum)39:22 - The Council of Nicaea (Second order Simulacrum)39:40 - Church Tradition (Third Order Simulacra, or Hyperreality)40:10 - Culture War/Kid Rock Turning Point USA halftime show40:45 - Growing up in a cult vs. growing up in a simulation41:04 - Destruction of the 2nd Temple happened, Revelation is a first order simulacrum41:35 - Millerism, Adventism, Premillennial Pretribulationism are second order simulacra41:45 - Protocols of the elders of Zion, A Thief in the Night, and Left Behind are all third order simulacra or Hyperreality42:12 - The Holocaust, McCarthyism and the Red Scare, Satanic Panic, Q Anon, January 6, 2025 Rapture Hoax, are mass delusion brought on by pure simulation44:20 - Hyperreality peaked in 202044:45 - The end of COVID-19 and the rise of AI45:04 - What is coming next?45:45 - AI CEOs are grifters46:32 - Minor League Baseball47:10 - 2020, Social Unrest, George Floyd protests, Anti-Mask/Vaxx48:14 - Transcendentalism, Naturalism, humanity's relationship with nature, Oliver Wendel Holmes, Henry David Thoreau, Walt Whitman50:29 - The next movementSubscribe to Leaving Eden Podcast on YouTube!https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ4q94gAnsoW2jME4SvVrrQJoin our Patreon for extended, uncensored, and ad-free versions of most of our episodes, as well as other patron perks and bonus content!https://www.patreon.com/LeavingEdenPodcastJoin our Facebook group to join in the discussion with other fans!https://www.facebook.com/groups/edenexodusJoin our subreddit! Reddit.com/r/EdenExodusBluesky:@leavingedenpodcast.bsky.social@hellyeahsadie.bsky.social@gavihacohen.bsky.socialInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/leavingedenpodcast/https://www.instagram.com/sadiecarpentermusic/https://www.instagram.com/gavrielhacohen/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the premiere of their new series Life Long Learners, Greg and Nathan explore a foundational truth of the Christian life: Jesus didn't call graduates, He called disciples. Following Christ is not merely about conversion; it's about lifelong formation. In this episode, they unpack the biblical vision behind the Great Commission's call to teach believers to observe all Christ commanded, and what it means to love God with all our minds. Greg and Nathan challenge the cultural myth that education ends with a diploma and examine why intellectual humility—not pride—is essential to spiritual growth. They also discuss how curiosity, teachability, and disciplined learning protect our faith from shallowness and prepare us to engage the world with conviction and clarity. If Christianity is a lifelong journey of transformation, then learning is not optional—it's essential. Closing Challenge: Choose one book, one topic, and one discipline to pursue this month—and commit to becoming a disciple, not just a graduate.

1 Timothy 4:8 NIV “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”   *Transcription Below*   Brian Smith, author of The Christian Athlete: Glorifying God in Sports, is a staff member with Athletes in Action and a cross-country coach at Lowell High School. A former collegiate runner at Wake Forest University, he earned a BA in Communications and Journalism before completing his MA in Theology and Sports Studies at Baylor University's Truett Theological Seminary. Brian lives in Lowell, MI with his wife and three children. You can find him on Twitter @BrianSmithAIA.   Ed Uszynski is an author, speaker, and sports minister with over three decades' experience discipling college and professional athletes. With a heart for reconciliation and justice, he also works as a racial literacy consultant and marriage conference speaker, blending Biblical wisdom with practical living in the midst of complex cultural realities. He has two theological degrees from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and a PhD in American Culture Studies from Bowling Green State University. He and his wife Amy have four children and live in Xenia, Ohio.   The Christian Athlete Website   Thank You to Our Sponsor:  Sam Leman Eureka   Questions and Topics We Cover: What is one of kids' greatest game day complaints?  Is it true that young athletic success is a predictor of adult athletic success? What are a few tips for instilling a heart of gratitude in our young athlete, rather than entitlement?   Related Savvy Sauce Episode: 230 Intentional Parenting in All The Stages with Dr. Rob Rienow   Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:00 – 0:11)   Laura Dugger: (0:12 - 1:51) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   The principles of honesty and integrity that Sam Leman founded his business on continue today, over 55 years later, at Sam Leman Chevrolet Eureka.   Owned and operated by the Bertschi family, Sam Leman and Eureka appreciates the support they've received from their customers all over Central Illinois and beyond. Visit them today at lemangm.com.   Brian Smith and Ed Uszynski are my guests for today.   They are co-authors of this recent amazing book entitled, A Way Game, A Christian Parents Guide to Navigating Youth Sports. And from the very beginning, I was captivated, even with one of the endorsements from Matt Martens, who's the president and CEO of Awana, and he summed it up this way, A Way Game provides a much needed perspective shift on one of the most sacred idols in our culture, youth sports. So, Brian and Ed are all for youth sports, and yet you're going to hear there's a different way to approach it than what we've been trained in culture.   And they're going to share some wonderful and very practical insights. I can't wait to share this with you. Here's our chat. Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, Ed and Brian.   Ed Uszynski & Brian Smith: (1:51 - 1:54) Thanks for having us, Laura. Yeah, good to be here, Laura.   Laura Dugger: (1:54 - 2:04) So, excited about this chat. And will the two of you just start us off by sharing your family's stage of life and your involvement in sports?   Brian Smith: (2:05 - 3:29) Yeah, there could be a lot on the back end of that question. I'll start with sports, then get into family. I've been involved in sports my entire life, played every sport imaginable growing up, got cut from just about every single sport my freshman year of high school, ended up running track and cross country because it was the only sports that you could not get cut from at my high school.   And I ended up being pretty good at it by the time I was a senior, won some state championships, ended up getting a scholarship to run at Wake Forest University. So, I did that for four years right out of college. I coached a little bit collegiately.   Soon after that, I joined staff with a sports ministry called Athletes in Action that Ed and I have a combined 50 years with Athletes in Action. And really, that's been my life ever since. I've been ministering to college and pro athletes, discipling them, helping them figure out what does that actually look like to integrate faith in sport.   Even today, I live in Grand Rapids, Michigan. I coach high school cross country while I'm still on staff with Athletes in Action. I have a middle school Bible study that I run on Wednesday mornings.   Been married to my wife, who I actually met in high school. She was a distance runner too, and she ran at Wisconsin. So, we've been married for 20 years.   We have three kids, a high schooler, a middle schooler, and an elementary schooler who are all involved in sport at some level, some way, shape, or form.   Laura Dugger: (3:30 - 3:34) Wow, that's incredible. Thank you, Brian. And Ed, what about you?   Ed Uszynski: (3:34 - 5:04) Well, my story is very parallel to Brian's, just different sports and some different numbers. Just tack on 15 years. Yeah, I was a basketball player.   Grew up on the west side of Cleveland with a high school football coach. My dad was, but I was a basketball player. I played at high levels all the way through my 20s, got to play overseas.   I mean, this was a long time ago, but I got everything I could out of that sport. And as soon as I graduated from college, though, I started to work with that Athletes in Action ministry that Brian mentioned. So, I've been working with college and professional athletes for 34 years now.   And same, coached at different levels, have four kids. Amy and I have been married for 26 years. We have four kids, three are in college, and one's in ninth grade, who has a game this afternoon, actually.   So, we've just been going to games and have been involved in going to sports stuff for the last 20 years with our kids. And really what happened with Brian, and I is that we looked up a decade ago and realized this youth sports thing was a fast train that was moving in directions that we weren't used to ourselves, even though we've been around sports our whole life. It's like, there's something different happening now.   And then thinking about it as Christians, like, how do we do this well as Christ followers? We don't want to separate from it. We don't want to just go for the ride. How do we do this as Christian people? And that's what got us talking about it and eventually led to this book.   Laura Dugger: (5:05 - 5:23) Well, the book was easy to read and incredible. And I'd like to start there where you begin, even where you go back before going forward. So, when you're looking back, what are the factors at play that changed youth sports over time?   Ed Uszynski: (5:26 - 6:17) Well, I'll say this and then Brian, maybe you jump in and throw a couple of them out there. I mean, youth sports is a $40 billion industry today, which is wild to think about. It's four times how much money gets spent on the NFL, which is just staggering.   I can't even hardly believe that that's true, but it is. And it's really just in the last 20 years that that's happened. I mean, 50 years ago, you couldn't have had the youth sport industrial complex, as we refer to it.   You couldn't have had it. There were a bunch of things that had to happen culturally, as is true with any new movement or any paradigm shift that happens in culture. You've got to have certain things be true all at the same time that make it possible.   So, Brian, what were a couple of those? Again, I'll throw it over to you. There's six of them that we talk about in the book. And I think it's really fascinating because I'm a history guy.   Brian Smith: (6:18 - 8:40) Yeah. And we can obviously double click on any of these, Laura, that you want to, but we talk about how the college admissions process became an avenue where youth sports parents saw, man, if we can get our kids involved in some extracurriculars and kind of tag on high level athlete to their resume, it actually helps with the college admissions process. And so even the idea of college scholarships became an opportunity for youth sports parents to get their kids involved.   And then, yeah, maybe sports can actually get them into college. We talk about the economic shifts that happen, the rise of safetyism and helicopter parenting. ESPN was a massive one in 1979.   This thing called ESPN starts, and we get 24-7 coverage of sports, which they started exploring even early on. What does it look like to give coverage to something like Little League World Series and saw that it didn't really matter how young the sport was, it's going to draw a national audience. And so, we've almost been discipled by ESPN really over the last 50 years with this consistent coverage.   We talk about the rise of the sports complex. This one to me is like the most fascinating out of all of them. In 1997, Disney decided to try to get more people to come to their parks.   They built a sports complex, just a massive sports complex. The idea was, are the older kids getting sick of the Buzz Lightyear ride and the Disney princesses? So, let's build a sports complex and maybe it'll be something else that will draw this older crowd too.   And what happened was, I mean, a lot of people started coming to it, but kind of the stake in the ground game changer was when 9-11 hit. In the months and years after that, they saw a lot less people go to their parks, but population actually doubled going to the sports complex, which is wild to think that people were afraid to go to theme parks for a vacation, but they were willing to travel across state lines to play sports at the Disney complex. So other cities and municipalities took notice of that.   Today, there's over 30,000 sports complexes like Disney's, which again, this is all adding to the system of the youth sports industrial complex. Did I miss any, Ed?   Ed Uszynski: (8:41 - 10:47) Well, no, and that's good. And the reason why we even put all that on the table, again, everybody kind of intuitively knows if you're involved, you know, something's not right. But I think it's important to say this is not normal what's happening.   It's a new normal that's been manufactured by a bunch of cultural trends, by a bunch of entrepreneurs that are doing what entrepreneurs do, and they're taking advantage of the moment, and they are generating lots of money around it. So, it should be encouraging. If it's not normal, that means actually there's a counter way of going about this.   There really can be reformation. But when all this money gets involved, the two biggest consequences that come out of that is our kids start getting treated like commodities, which they are, and we could talk the whole time even just about what that means. But maybe even more importantly, or what comes out of that is that beyond their physical development, most coaches and clubs are not paying any attention to their emotional development, their psychological development, their spiritual development, all the different aspects of what it means to be human that, frankly, used to be paid quite a bit more attention to in youth leagues when I was growing up.   I'm 58 now, so I was playing in the 70s and the 80s. And it used to be expected, at least at some level, even among non-Christian people, that you would take those aspects of a kid's life seriously. And now those just aren't prioritized.   And so, what do we do about that? Again, that's kind of our whole point is, well, as Christian people, we're really supposed to be our kid's first discipler anyways. And part of that role and part of taking on that identity is that we would be asking, what is God trying to do in the wholeness of their life, the entirety of their life, even in the context of sports?   So again, I don't want to get ahead of myself here, but that's why we're trying to poke into that to say, oh, we could actually make change. We may not change the whole system. In fact, we won't. Most of us won't be expected to do that, but we can make significant change in our corner of the bleachers and what happens with our kids.   Laura Dugger: (10:48 - 11:05) That's good. And just like you said, to double-click on a few places, first of all, real quick, the 30,000 number, I remember that shocking me in the book, but I'm forgetting now, is that worldwide, the amount of sports complexes or is that just in America?   Brian Smith: (11:05 - 11:06) That's domestically in the US.   Laura Dugger: (11:07 - 11:52) Yeah. That is staggering. And then one other piece, all of this history was new to me as you brought it all together, but it was also fascinated.   This is from page 32. I'll just read your quote. The American youth sports ball began rolling when a British movement fusing spiritual development with physical activity made its way across the Atlantic Ocean at the turn of the last century.   And Ed, that's kind of what you were touching on, that they were mixing, I'm sure, spiritual, psychological discipleship, physical. Can you elaborate more on what was happening and where it originated? Because we've come very far from our origins.   Ed Uszynski: (11:53 - 13:18) Yeah. And there's been a bunch of really great books written about this topic called muscular Christianity. This idea, like you just said, Laura, of wedding physical activity through sports with our spiritual development and expecting and anticipating that somebody that was taking care of their body and that was engaging in sport activity, that was the closest thing to godliness.   That opened up the door for you to also be developing spiritually. And there was an expectation that both of those are going on at the same time. A bunch of criticism about that movement, but it was taken seriously.   The YMCA is actually a huge byproduct of the muscular Christianity movement. The Young Men's Christian Association created space for sports and for athletic activity to take place under the banner of you're also going to grow spiritually as you're doing this. So again, that was a hundred years ago.   And that's not really what AAU stands for today. The different clubs and leagues that we get involved in just don't talk that way anymore. Of course, culture just in general has shifted away from sort of a Judeo-Christian ethic guiding a North Star for us.   Even if we're not Christian people, that used to be more of a North Star. That's gone now. And so, it really is not expected in sports anymore.   Brian Smith: (13:18 - 13:55) And what we're saying is we cannot expect organizations to own that process for our kids. We can't outsource the discipleship of our kids to the youth sports industrial complex or the YMCA or the AAU. It really does start with us as Christian parents to be the primary discipler of our kids.   And there is a way to take what's happening on the field or the court or the pool and turn it into really amazing discipleship opportunities. But it means, and Ed is starting to tease this out, it means we need to change our perspective as parents when we sit in the bleachers or on the sidelines of what we're looking for and even the conversations we have with our kids on the back end.   Laura Dugger: (13:57 - 15:29) And now a brief message from our sponsor.   Sam Leman Chevrolet Eureka has been owned and operated by the Bertschi family for over 25 years. A lot has changed in the car business since Sam and Stephen's grandfather, Sam Leman, opened his first Chevrolet dealership over 55 years ago.   If you visit their dealership today though, you'll find that not everything has changed. They still operate their dealership like their grandfather did, with honesty and integrity. Sam and Stephen understand that you have many different choices in where you buy or service your vehicle.   This is why they do everything they can to make the car buying process as easy and hassle-free as possible. They are thankful for the many lasting friendships that began with a simple welcome to Sam Leman's. Their customers keep coming back because they experience something different.   I've known Sam and Stephen and their wives my entire life and I can vouch for their character and integrity, which makes it easy to highly recommend you check them out today. Your car buying process doesn't have to be something you dread, so come see for yourself at Sam Leman Chevrolet in Eureka. Sam and Stephen would love to see you and they appreciate your business.   Learn more at their website, LemanEureka.com or visit them on Facebook by searching for Sam Leman Eureka. You can also call them on 309-467-2351. Thanks for your sponsorship.   Laura Dugger: (15:30 - 15:31) And I want to continue getting into more of those practicals. Do you want to give us just a taste or an example or story of what that might look like?   Brian Smith: (15:32 - 16:54) We keep saying, we keep talking about the importance of the car ride home that it's tempting for us and not us broadly in the U.S., tempting for us, Ed and I, as people who have done this for 50 plus years and who should know better, it's tempting for us as discipled by an ESPN over analyzing everything culture and want to talk about sports to get in the car ride home with our kids and all we want to talk about is how game went, what they did right, what they did wrong, what they could fix next time.   Maybe instead of passing to Tim, they should take the shot next time because they're wide open. They just hit three in a row. So, and what our kids need from us in those moments is less coaching, less criticizing, less critiquing, and they just need us to connect with them.   The stats on kids quitting youth sports is crazy right now. Its 70 percent are quitting before the age of 13, in large part because it's not fun, and a lot of kids are attaching this idea of it not being fun to the car ride home with their parents who, let's say this too, most of us are well-intentioned parents. We're not trying to screw our kids up.   We want what's best for our kids, but the data and the research and the lived experience continues to tell us what our kids need from us is just to take a deep breath, connect with them, less coaching. Ed keeps saying less coaching, more slurpees.   Laura Dugger: (16:55 - 17:07) I like that. And that ties in. Is it called the peak-end principle that you discovered why kids are resisting that critique on the way home?   Brian Smith: (17:07 - 18:17) Yeah, absolutely. The peak-end rule in psychology is known as this: we, just as humans in general, not just kids, we largely remember things in our lives based on the peak moment of that event, but also how the event ends. And so, the peak moment in sport can be anything from something that goes really well, like they scored a goal or made a basket or something that did not go well, just like a massive event that took place that they're going to remember.   But then it's also married to how that event ends. So, if you think for kids, how does every youth sport experience end? It ends with the car ride home.   So, if they're experiencing the car ride home as I did not live up to mom and dad's standards, or there's fear getting into the car because they don't know what their parents are going to say, how are they remembering the totality of their youth sport experience? It is, I didn't, I didn't measure up. I wasn't enough.   It felt like sports was a place that I needed to perform for my parents or my coach. And I always feel a little bit short. We want to help parents see like there's a different path forward that can be more joyful for you, but hopefully more joyful for your kid as well.   Ed Uszynski: (18:17 - 21:37) Well, and, and I'll just, let me keep going with that, Brian. I thought you really articulated all that so well. I can just imagine a parent maybe thinking, was there never a time to correct?   Is there never a time to give input? And we would say, well, of course there, there is, they need far less of it from us than we think they need when it comes to their sport. And again, we can talk about that.   They need far less of that from us. They need us to be their parents, not to be their coaches. Even if we are their coach, they need us to be more their parents.   But there is a time to do it. We're just saying the car ride home is the worst time to do it. And that's usually the time that most of us, you know, we've got two hours of stuff to download with them.   And that's just, it's not a good time. But the other thing that Brian and I keep talking about is how about, what if we had some different metrics that we were even trying to measure? So, most of the time our metrics have to do with their performance.   Like what, what are we grading them on? Again, depending on what the sport is, there's these different things that we're looking for to say, how you did today is based on whether you did this or you didn't do that and whatnot. And we're saying as parents, and again, starting with us, we needed some other metrics that were actually more concerned about what was going on in their soul.   So again, I'm sure we'll talk more about this, but the virtues, how did love show up in the way they competed today? Where that usually is tied to them noticing somebody else. Do I, am I even asking them any questions about that?   Are they experiencing peace in the midst of all this chaos and anxiety that shows up at every game? How do we teach them to experience peace? How do they become other-centered instead of just self-centered all the time in a culture, a sport culture that's teaching them to always be the center of attention and try to be?   So, we just have needed to exchange some of what we had on that performance list, like tamper that down a little bit and maybe expand the list of categories that we're looking for that actually will matter when they're 25. And we keep saying this, our goal is that they'd come home for Thanksgiving when they're 25. And so, we need to stay relationally connected to them and how we act on the car ride home day after day after day after day, year after year is doing something to our relationship.   But we also are recognizing that it's really not going to matter whether Trey finishes with his left hand at the game today when he's 25, it's not going to matter. It's not going to matter probably a year from now, but how he goes through the handshake line after the game and the way he addresses other people, and whether or not he's learning to submit to authority, whether or not he's learning to embrace other people's humanity. Yes, even in the context of sports, that's really going to matter when he's 25.   It's going to matter when he's married. Those are the things that will matter. And we say that as people who are older and have been involved in ministry and have worked with college athletes and see what happens in their lives even after they're finished, and they have no idea who they are anymore.   And this thing that's dominated their life has not actually prepared them well to do life. And that's a problem that we say, let's start changing that when they're six and not hope they're figuring it out when they're 22.   Laura Dugger: (21:38 - 22:11) I love that because that's such a theme throughout those virtues that you talked about, but discipleship and sports are a tool or a way that we can disciple our kids. I also love that you give various questions throughout the book and even quick phrases. So to close that conversation on the car ride home, if we say, okay, that's what I've been coaching the whole way home, what is a question we could ask our child afterwards and a statement we could say and leave it at that and do it a better way?   Brian Smith: (22:12 - 23:56) The question I have consistently asked my kids after learning that I've been doing this the wrong way for a long time, I tweet my question to they get in the car and I say, is there anything that happened today from the game that you want to talk about? And it's frustrating to me because 99% of the time they say, no, can we listen to the radio? And we listen to the radio, or they play a on my phone, but I'm respecting their desire that they're done with what just happened and they're ready to move on to the next thing, even though I really want to talk about what just happened.   And then the statement that I want to make sure that I'm consistently saying that they're hearing is I love you and I'm proud of you. So, game didn't go well. Yeah, you did play well today.   That's okay. Hey, I love you and I'm proud of you. Game went well today.   Awesome. Great job. Hey, I love you and I'm proud of you.   So I want that to be the consistent theme that they're hearing for me, which is hopefully going to help them better understand the gospel later in life, that as they get older and older, hopefully they'll begin to realize it seemed like the way that my mom and dad interacted with me when I was performing in sport, but their love was not attached to my performance. That seems really similar to what I'm learning more and more that Jesus does for me, that I'm trying to do all these things that are good. But from what I'm understanding about the gospel, it seems like Jesus loves me in spite of what I do.   He loves me just because He's connected to me, that God loves me because I'm a son or daughter, not because I'm performing as a son or a daughter. So, in a very real way, I really am hoping that I'm giving a good teaser for my kids now for when they fully experience the gospel as they go through the life.   Ed Uszynski: (23:56 - 24:47) Another really good connecting question. I love how you said all that, Brian, is if they don't want to talk about the game, is it okay, did you have fun today? And they can only go in one of two directions.   No. Well, tell me about that. Why not?   And it opens up the door to talk about, well, because I didn't get to play or because something bad happened. And again, tell me more about that. Tell me more about that.   Or they say, yes, great. What happened that was fun? And it creates a very different conversation in the car.   And it opens up, again, relational possibilities that go way beyond, why do you keep passing it when you should be shooting it? Wow. And just all the different ways that that comes out of us, depending on sport, depending on their age.   But those are great questions. Go ahead, Brian.   Brian Smith: (24:47 - 25:41) I just asked my son this morning. He's a freshman. His wrestling season is almost done.   And I just asked, like, what has been most fun for you in wrestling this year? And his first thing was, I feel like I'm learning a lot. And that's really fun for me, which he's on a really good team.   He's had a lot of success. He's made a lot of good friends. But even that gave me a window into his characters.   My son enjoys and I knew this is true about him. But my son enjoys learning, which means he enjoys the process of getting better and better and better, which can happen in school, it can happen doing stuff in the yard, it can it can also happen in sport. But for me to remember moving forward, yeah, he he's probably going to have a different metric for what's fun in sport than I often do for him.   Yeah, like I wanted to learn. I want him to win though, too. He's happy with learning right now.   So, I need to be happy with that for him.   Ed Uszynski: (25:41 - 26:34) If I can say this, too, again, I don't want to be vulnerable on your behalf. But then knowing this, he's lost a lot this year to really good kids. Yeah.   And so much of the learning has been in the context of losing. So, you as a dad, actually, you could be crushing him because of those losses and what he needs to do to fix that and what he needs to do so that that doesn't happen again. And it's like he's already committed to learning.   How do you just how do you celebrate the loss? Like he took the risk to try something new in this movie. He tried to survive an extra period.   That's a process when and it's we just need to get better at that. Like you genuinely can celebrate that. That's not just a that's not like a participation trophy.   It's acknowledging now, do you're taking you're taking the right steps that are actually making you a winner, even if you don't have more points at the end of the game right now.   Laura Dugger: (26:34 - 26:54) Yeah. Yeah. And that long term win that you're talking about, even with character and you've talked about fun and asking them about fun.   Is it true that that's the main reason kids are dropping out of sports at such a rapid rate before age 13 is that it's just not fun anymore?   Ed Uszynski: (26:55 - 28:58) Yeah. Yeah. And why is it not fun?   And again, this is where Brian and I are always getting in each other's business. And we know that this conversation gets in all of our business as adults. But why is it not fun?   It's not fun because of the coaches and it's not fun because of the parents. We are creating stress. We are creating again collectively because we're all in different places on the on the spectrum on this in terms of what we're actually doing when we show up at games.   But if you even just go to any soccer game and you be quiet and just listen to what's happening and everybody's shouting and screaming things and there's contradictory messages being sent and there's angst at every turn and there's an incredible celebration because this eight year old was able to get the ball to go across the line for another goal. And what that's doing inside the kids is it is creating a not fun atmosphere. Let's just say it like that.   That's a not fun atmosphere when you're eight, when you're 10, when you're trying to figure out how to make your body work. You're trying to learn the game that you're unfamiliar with and you're trying to do what this coach is telling you to do. And you're also trying to do what all the parents are telling you what to do.   And if it's a team sport, you're trying to interact and play with other kids who are all in that same state of disarray, which is very stressful and frustrating. And we're just adding to it. So instead of removing it, instead of playing a role that says, we're going to keep diffusing that stress.   And again, I'll speak for myself. Too often, I have been the one that's actually adding to it. And so, kids are just like, why would I do this?   Why would I want to get in that car again with you? It's not fun. This is a game.   And so, there's a million other things that I can do with my time where I don't have everybody yelling at me and I don't have to listen to you correct me for two hours.   Laura Dugger: (29:00 - 29:21) Well, and one other thing that surprised me, maybe why kids are dropping out, you share on page 47, a quote that research reveals a strange correlation. The more we spend, the less our kids actually enjoy their sport. So, did you have any more insight into that?   Brian Smith: (29:21 - 30:50) Yeah, this was a real study that was done at Utah State. Researchers found that the more money parents are spending, again, let's say well-intentioned parents, the more we're spending in sports, the less our kids are enjoying. And the more they have dug into it, they're finding, and intuitively it makes sense.   If you buy your kid a $600 baseball bat, what's the expectation that they're supposed to do with this really expensive bat? When they swing, they better hit the ball, and they better get on base. If we're going to buy you this expensive of a bat, you can't just have process goals with it.   You better swing and hit it. And that's causing stress for kids. If you travel across state lines and you go to Disney to play at their sports complex, you're not there for vacation.   You're there to perform. So even if parents are saying we're trying to have fun, kids know when you're traveling and you're getting all this good equipment and you're on the elite team and you're receiving the best of the best stuff, they know it comes with some sort of an expectation. College athletes can barely handle that type of pressure and expectations, but we've placed this professional on youth sports from fifth five-year-olds to 15-year-olds, and it's just crushing them.   It's crushing them. Again, college athletes and professional athletes can barely handle it. They need mental health coaches for sports, but we're expecting that our five-year-olds can handle it, and they can't.   Ed Uszynski: (30:51 - 31:19) And they may not even be able to articulate it. So that's the other thing. They may not be able to identify what's actually going on inside and put it into words.   So again, that's why we're trying to sound the alarm for ourselves and for others who are listening, because we can do it different. Again, just to even keep spinning it back in an encouraging direction, we can do this different. We can change this this week in our corner of the bleachers.   We can start over again.   Laura Dugger: (31:21 - 31:48) Absolutely and make a difference. And before we talk about even more of the pros with sports, I think it's also necessary to reflect and maybe even grieve a few things. So, what would you say are some things families are missing out on when they choose youth sports to overfill their calendar, that that's all that they make time for?   What do you think they're missing out on?   Brian Smith: (31:51 - 33:16) Yeah, I think a couple that come to mind are family dinners are a big one. That's big for us in the Smith house, is just having the ability after a long day to sit at the dinner table together, to eat food together, and to process the day and be with one another. But when my kids' practice goes late, it means we're either eating almost towards bedtime or we're eating in different shifts.   And so that's something that we grieve. I think for me, when my schedule is full, I'm tempted to adopt the mindset that what's happening on the wrestling mat or on the track matters more than it actually does. And it robs me of the ability to just take a deep breath and smile and enjoy watching my kids play sports.   That without an intervention or a pregame devotional in the car for myself, I risk sitting in the stands or being on the sidelines, being stressed out and putting pressure on myself and pressure on my kids and gossiping about why the coach didn't put this kid into the people next to me, instead of just enjoying the gift that is sports and watching my kid try and succeed and try and fail. That is a gift available to me as a dad to watch my kid do that. But the busyness often robs me of that perspective.   Ed Uszynski: (33:17 - 36:06) Well, and the busyness robs, again, if you're married, that busyness eventually wears away at your relationship. And it's not just sports. I mean, busyness, we can fill our schedule, overfill our schedules with any number of things.   We can overfill our schedules with church stuff to a point where it becomes detrimental to our relationship. If we don't set boundaries so that we're making sure we're doing what we need to do to be face-to-face and to be going to areas beneath the surface with each other in our relationship and being able to do that with our kids as well, eventually there's negative consequences to that. It may not happen right away, but I've definitely experienced that.   We've experienced that in our home where it's easy to maybe chase one kid around for a while, but what happens when you add three into the mix and you haven't really done a time budget or paid attention to the fact that when we sign up for all these things, you get a month into it and you realize, oh, we have to be in different places at the same time. So, we're not even watching stuff together anymore. We're just running.   I can endure anything for a season, but what youth sports wants now in every sport from the youngest ages is that it becomes a year-round commitment. So, you're not even signing up to play a season anymore. You're signing up for a year in most cases because after the games, then they're going to have training.   They're going to have this other thing going on. And so again, can we say, well, we'll play the actual season, but then we're not going to do the additional training over these next three months. Again, we want to give parents' permission that you can say no to that.   Well, we paid for it. Well, it's okay. If you want your kid to be on that team and you like this club or whatever, then you pay the money and you just say, we're going to sit those three months out and we're going to use those three months actually to have people over our house for dinner.   Again, whatever's on the list, Laura, that you said about being more holistic and not letting sport operate like an idol in our life where it's taken on, it's washed out everything else in our life. We can get back in control of that by just saying no a little bit. You can go to church on Sunday.   Even if there's tournament games going on on Sunday, you can go to the coach early and say, hey, we just, in our family, we just don't want to be available before 12. Are you okay with that? And most of the time coaches will be.   The kid might have to sit extra maybe for not being, whatever. Okay. That's not going to be the end of the world that they had to sit out an extra game or had to sit out a half because they weren't available on Sunday morning.   It might actually make a huge difference that they weren't at church for two and a half years in the most formative time of their life.   Laura Dugger: (36:07 - 37:36) And a lot of times the way of wisdom includes reflection, getting alone with the Lord and asking, have we overstuffed our schedule this conversation today? Let's talk specifically with youth sports. Is that trumping everything else?   Because what if we're putting it in a place it was never intended to be as an idol where we sacrifice hospitality or discipleship or community or even just a more biblical way of life? I think we have to bring wisdom into the conversation for what you've mentioned. Whether it's worth it, if they're even enjoying it, how much we're spending on it, and do we have the budget to allocate our finances that way and evaluating the time just to see and make sure that it's rightly ordered.   Did you know you could receive a free email with monthly encouragement, practical tips, and plenty of questions to ask to take your conversation a level deeper, whether that's in parenting or on date nights? Make sure you access all of this at thesavvysauce.com by clicking the button that says join our email list so that you can follow the prompts and begin receiving these emails at the beginning of each month. Enjoy!   But if we flip that to if youth sports are rightly ordered, then what are some things that we can celebrate or reasons that you would want families to give this a try?   Brian Smith: (37:37 - 40:09) The massive positive that we keep coming back to is we have a front row seat to see our kids go through every possible emotion in sport, the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. And then if we have the right perspective, we are armed with awesome opportunities and awesome information that we're seeing. We get to see what our kids are really good at.   We get to see their character gaps. And then we get to be the ones who, again, who are their primary response, primary disciplers. It really goes back to like, are we trusting youth sports for too little in our kids' lives?   Like many of us are trusting that our investment is going to get them a spot on a team, or maybe they get an opportunity in high school, maybe in college. And what we're saying is, yeah, that maybe. And that's not a bad end goal.   But if that's everything that you're investing into youth sports, it's not enough. Like what you have available to you every single day is to ask your kid if they showed somebody else's dignity on the field. You don't know if your kid's going to hit a home run today.   That may not be available to them their entire life. What's available to them every single day is to ask a question to their teammate, to see somebody and show dignity to them. And that's really, it's like, it's almost the opportunity of a lifetime for us as parents who, when our kids get home from school, we really don't know what happened most of the day.   We asked them how it went and we get the one-word answer. In sports, we don't have to guess. We get to see everything that happens.   And again, if we are actually trusting youth sports for discipleship investment, that's a good ROI. That's a good return on our investment. But we need a consistent intervention almost daily to say, no, this is why they're in sports.   Yes, I want to see them get better. I want to see them have fun, but Holy Spirit, would you help me see things today that I normally don't see? Holy Spirit, would you put them in circumstances and relationships today and in the season that's going to help them look more and more like Jesus by the time the season's done?   Holy Spirit, would you convict me in the moment when I am being a little too mouthy and saying things that I shouldn't? Would you help me to repent? And God, in those moments where I'm actually doing wrong on behalf of my kid, would you help me to humble myself and apologize to them?   And God, would you repair our relationship that way? So again, all of these options are available just because our kid's shooting a ball or they're on the field with somebody else tackling other people. We're trusting youth sports for too little.   Ed Uszynski: (40:10 - 41:10) That's all big boy and big girl stuff. It just is. I don't normally naturally do any of that.   I have to be coached into that. I have to be discipled myself. I have to work through my own issues, my own baggage, my own fears about the future, my own idolatrous holding onto this imagined future that I have for my kid, irrespective of what God may or may not want.   I've got my own resentment. I've got my own regrets from the past. I wish things had gone differently for me, so I'm going to make sure they go different for you when it comes to sports.   And it's hard to look in the mirror and admit that I have anger issues. I mean, youth sports create a great opportunity for me to get up all my pent-up frustration from the day. We've given ourselves permission to do that, in most cases, to just yell and yell at refs and gripe about coaches and yell at kids.   Brian Smith: (41:10 - 41:31) Because that's what we do at the TV, right? When our favorite team is playing, we've conditioned ourselves to say, awful call, that was terrible. Then we get on social media and we complain about it.   We are discipling ourselves to this is how it's normative to respond within the context of sports. Then we carry all that baggage to our six-year-old soccer game.   Laura Dugger: (41:33 - 42:02) Well, I love how you keep pointing it back toward character and discipleship. You clearly state throughout the book, sports don't develop character, people do. But could you maybe elaborate on that a little bit more and share more now that we've listed pros and cons, you still list a completely different way that we can meaningfully participate while also pushing back?   Brian Smith: (42:04 - 43:49) I'll start with the first part, and then you can answer the second. We use the handshake line as a great example of why character needs to be taught to our kids. If you just watch a normal handshake line left without coaching, the kids are going through it, especially the ones who lose with their head down, they have limp hands, there's no eye contact, and they're mumbling good game, good game.   Sometimes they don't even say it, they'll say GG stands for good game. They don't just learn character by going through the handshake line. If anything, that's going through it like that without any sort of intervention or coaching, that's malforming their character.   That's teaching them when things don't go well, that it's okay for them not to be a big boy or a big girl and look somebody in the eye and congratulate them. What needs to happen? An adult needs to step in and say, hey, as we go through the handshake line, whether you win or lose, here's how we do it with class.   We shake somebody's hand, we look them in the eye, and we say good game. Even if in those moments we don't actually mean it, we still show them dignity and honor. And then when we're done going through the handshake line, guess what we're going to do?   We're going to run down the refs who are trying to get in their car and get out of here, and we're going to give them a high five and say, thank you so much for reffing today. That stuff needs to be taught. Our kids don't just come out of the womb knowing how to do that.   We have to teach them how to do it. Sometimes good coaches will do that, but the more and more we get sucked up into the sports industrial complex, we're getting well-intentioned coaches, but we're getting coaches who care more about the big W, the win, than the character formation stuff that happens.   Ed Uszynski: (43:49 - 45:27) They need to keep hearing it over and over again. I have a ninth grade Bible study in my house the other day with athletes and a whole bunch of my son's basketball team. Exactly what Brian just said, I actually was like, wow, I've got them here.   There was a big blow up at a game the other day, and we wound up talking about it. I said, I'm going to take this opportunity actually to say what Brian just said. When you go through a handshake line, this is how you go through it.   I watched what happened in the game a couple days later. Basically, they did the exact opposite of what I told them to do, and they lost. It was just what Brian said.   They went through limp handed. They didn't look anybody in the face, and they weren't even saying anything. I just chuckled to myself, and you know how this is as a parent.   They may or may not do it. Of course, those aren't my kids. I have more stewardship over my child, who actually, he is doing what I've asked him to do because I've re-emphasized it across time now.   It's not a failure because they didn't do what I said. Again, the pouty side of me wants to be like, forget it. I'm just not even going to try anymore.   It's like, no, they're kids. That was the first time they've heard that. They're going to do what their patterns have, the muscle memory that's been created by their patterns, just like we do as adults.   The next time I have a chance to bring that up again, I'm not going to shame them. I'm just going to go over it again with them. Here's how we do it.   It's super hard to do this, guys, when you just want to be violent with people or you want to cry. You got to pull yourself together. That's what big men do.   That's what big women do in life. They pull themselves together in those moments and do the right thing.   Brian Smith: (45:28 - 46:01) You don't know whether the fifth time you say it is going to stick or the 50th time. Your responsibility as the Christ-following parent is to do it the sixth time and the seventh time and the seventh time and trust that God is going to take those moments and do what he does. We're ultimately not responsible for our kids' behavior.   We're responsible for pointing them in the right direction, and then hopefully, yeah, the Holy Spirit steps in and transforms and changes and convicts in those moments, but it might take some time.   Ed Uszynski: (46:02 - 47:47) Tom Bilyeu So that's how you push back, Laura. You were asking that. How do we push back without being just completely involved in it or going for the same ride that everybody else is going for?   There's just little moments like that scattered throughout. Literally, every day that my kids are involved in youth sports, the car ride over, what happens on the way home, how we talk about it, what happens during the game and what we wind up talking about out of that, the side conversations that happen that just get brought up apart from games of how we interact with people and so-and-so looks like they're struggling. What do you know about that?   That's how we push back, that in our corner of the bleachers, oh, how we interact with other parents. We haven't even talked about that yet, that I can take an interest in more than just my own kid in the bleachers and spend way more energy actually in cheering for other kids and just trying to give them confidence and spend way less time trying to direct that at my own child who knows that I'm there. In fact, my side kid has said he doesn't want to hear my voice during the game.   It distracts him. He's like, I'd much rather that you cheer for other people. It's like, okay.   Having questions ready for other parents during timeouts and as you sit there for hours together, what do you talk about? Well, I could be the one that actually initiates substantive conversations over time with them and asks them about what's going on in different parts of their life. And in having done that, people want to talk.   They want a safe place actually to share what's going on in their So let me be the sports minister. Let me take on that identity and actually care about other people.   Laura Dugger: (47:49 - 49:47) I love that. Even that practical idea of just coming to each game, maybe with a different question, ready to open up those conversations. And I'll share a quick story as well.   Our two oldest daughters recently just gave cheerleading a try at a local Christian school that allows homeschool kids to participate. And this is an overt way that somebody chooses the different way. So, it's the coach of the basketball team.   His name is Cole. And at the end of every game, we saw him consistently throughout this season when it was a home game, whether their team won or lost, he would ask them, okay, shut off the scoreboard. It's all blank.   He gathers both teams. As soon as the game is over teams, cheerleaders, the stands stay filled with all the parents. And he says, this is not our identity.   The world and Satan, our enemy, who's very real. He wants us to put our identity here, but it's not here. You made us better tonight by the way that you played and you were able to shine Jesus.   And we're going to go a step further and we're going to do what we call attaways. So, he's like, all right, boys, you open it up. And his team is trained.   They say to the other team, Hey, number 23, what's your name? I loved how you pushed me so much harder tonight and says, my name's Ben. And so, their Attaway is, Hey, Ben.   And everybody goes, Hey, Ben. Yeah, Ben. Yeah, Ben Attaway.   And everybody just erupts in clapping. And the other team is always blown away and they are just grinning, whether they just lost. So, the boys go through that for a while and then they open it up to the other team and they start sharing Attaways.   And then they open it up to the crowd and the parents are able to say, I see the way you modeled Jesus by being selfless with the ball or whatever it is. So, Cole said that his college coach did that many years ago and he's passed that on. And I love that's one way to redeem the game.   Ed Uszynski: (49:47 - 51:39) Wow. Beautiful. Beautiful.   Yeah. That's amazing. And, you know, I, so Brian and I talk about this too.   And I coached at a Christian school. So, we, we think that it's really important if you're going to play sports and you're going to be a Christian coach that you actually take the game seriously. And that we actually are here to compete and we are here to try to win.   There's nothing wrong with that. And we're going to pursue excellence when we show up with our bodies, and we train for this sport and we're going to try to win. Cause I think sometimes we end up kind of going all or nothing, especially within our Christian circles.   We're uncomfortable with that. And it's like, yes, do that. And on the backside of that to do what that coach did is amazing.   It's that, that is, that is exactly what we're saying. We're also going to try to form our souls in the midst of this. We're going to try to win on the scoreboard.   Okay. The game's over, we lost, we won, whatever. There's more going on here than just that. And can we access that together? And again, that's so rare. Probably everybody listening has never even heard of anything like what you just said.   It would be amazing if a bunch of people did, but that's what we're saying. Let's do more of that. Let's find ways to have more of those conversations in our sphere of influence.   Maybe we're not the coach, but we can do that in our car. We can do that when we're at dinners with the other, with other players and other team, you know, we, we can do that. We can take that kind of initiative.   If we have those categories in our mind, instead of just being frustrated that my kid didn't get to play as much tonight. And I'm that bugs me. It's like, okay, it can bug you.   And now I gotta, I gotta be a big boy and get more out of this than just being frustrated that he or she didn't get to play as much. It's hard.   Laura Dugger: (51:40 - 52:11) Absolutely. Well, and like you guys are doing having Bible studies outside of the, the team that you can instill values in that way and share scripture that they're memorizing to go out there with excellence for the Lord. So, I love all of that.   And I've got just a few quick questions, just kind of for perspective. I want to draw out something from the book. Is it true that young athletic success predicts adult athletic success?   Brian Smith: (52:13 - 53:51) It is not true. This is, this is not a hot take. This is researched back more and more research they're doing on this.   And they're finding that there's not a direct correlation between a young elite athlete and them continuing that up into the right trajectory and being an elite athlete later in life in large part, because when puberty hits, like everything is a game changer. So, this is, I found this fascinating and this is probably going to be new to you too. This just came out today.   At the time we're doing this podcast, the winter Olympics is going on in Norway. It's just like, they're killing it. Nor Norway's youth sports system.   This is wild. They give participation trophies for all the kids. They don't keep score until 13 years old.   They don't do any national travel competitions, no posting youth sports results online. So, there's no online presence of youth sport results. And their country motto is joy of sport for all.   And they're, they're killing it right now in the Olympics. So, like, that's not to say, like you got to follow their model and then you're going to win all these gold medals, but it is, there is something to just let the kids have fun. And the longer they play sport, because it's fun, the better opportunity you're actually going to have to see them blossom and develop some of these God-given gifts that they might have.   Don't expect it to come out before they're 13. Even if it does, there's no guarantee that it's going to continue on until they're 23. Just let them have fun.   Ed Uszynski: (53:52 - 55:55) Brian, we, Brian and I got to speak at a church the other day about this topic. And there was a couple that came up afterwards and they asked the question of what, so when do you think we should let our kids play organized sports or structured sports? And so again, Brian and I are careful.   Like I, there's no, there's no one size fits all answer to that. We would suggest as late as possible, wait as long as possible. Because once you start doing structured sport where there's a coach and you have to be at practices and the games are structured and there's reps, it just cuts away all the possibility they have to just play and just to go up to the YMCA and just play for three hours at whatever it is that they like to do.   And they said, well, it's encouraging to hear that they said, because we, we actually are way more into just developing their bodies physically. And so, we do dance with them, and we do rock climbing and they were kind of outdoorsy people, and they just started listing off all these things they do because we want them to become strong in their bodies, and learn to love activity like that. And I just thought, again, that's, that probably would cause a lot of people to freak out to hear that, that they have eight, nine-year-olds that aren't on teams yet.   They're just, they're training their bodies to appreciate physicality and to become coordinated and to, you know, to get better at movement. And it's like, what sport is that not going to be super helpful in five years from now, even when they're 12, 13 years old. And now they really do want to play one sport, and they do want to be on a team.   They're going to be way ahead of the kids actually that just sat on benches or stood in the outfield, you know, day after day after day at practices. Again, that's maybe hard to hear, but maybe there's some adjustments that need to be made again; to give ourselves permission to say, we don't have to get on that train right now. You don't have to, your kid's not going to be behind.   They actually could be ahead. If you do the kinds of things we just talked about.   Laura Dugger: (55:56 - 56:11) I love that. And even that example with what it looks like played out with Norway and also, do you have any other quick tips just for instilling and cultivating a heart of gratitude and youth sports rather than entitlement?   Brian Smith: (56:13 - 57:33) I'm a high school cross country and track coach, and I have kids on my team who want to get faster at running, but instead of running, they want to lift weights and they want to do plier metrics. So, there's, yes, there's a spot for that. But the way you get better at running is to run.   You got to run more miles and more miles. And I think gratitude is similar. That gratitude, part of it is a, it's a feeling, but it's also a muscle that we can flex even if we don't feel it.   And so, I would encourage parents who are trying to instill gratitude into their kids to give them practical things like, hey, after practice, just go shake your coach's hand or give them a fist bump and tell them, thanks for practice today, coach. That that's a disciplined way to practice gratitude that will hopefully build the muscle where they're, they're using it later in life. After a game, I taught my kids this when they were young and they still do it today.   Go shake a ref's hand. I mentioned this earlier, just a really, really practical way to show thankfulness and gratitude to somebody who really doesn't get a whole lot of gratitude pointed at them during a game or after a game. If anything, they have people chasing them through the parking lot for other reasons.   I want my kids to be chasing them down to give them a fist bump or a high five. And so, gratitude is something that we can just practice practically. And hopefully the discipline practice will lead to a delight and actually doing it.   Ed Uszynski: (57:34 - 59:39) And how do we cultivate an inner posture? Cause I tend to be a cup half empty type person. I'm a, I'm a whiner by nature and a continuous improvement.   There's always something wrong. And I'm, it's easy for me to find those things just as a person. I'm not even saying that as a dad or a coach or anything.   And it's been super helpful to me in the last decade, even to just like, I can choose to shift that. There, there is, there's a list of things that are broke, but there is always a list of things that are good. There's always something good here to be found.   And even as I've tried to like, again, tip the scales more in that direction, I can keep pushing that out of my kids. So, so this, you know, my ninth-grade son tends to just like, he doesn't like a whole bunch of what's going on in basketball right now. So, I keep asking him if he's having fun.   He says, no, like, why not? Or like, who did, why did you not have fun today? So, it's just the same thing every day.   I'm like, okay, who did you enjoy even being with today? Nobody. And I'm like, dude, I don't believe that actually.   I just, I don't believe that. There was somebody that you had some moment with today that you enjoyed, or you wouldn't want to keep going back up there because, and he does. So, give me a name.   Okay. Lenny. What happened with Lenny that was fun? And I make him name it. Like I'm, I'm, I'm trying to coach him through it. And sure enough, he does have some sentences of what was fun today.   And it's like, good, let's, let's at least hold onto that in the midst of all the other stuff that's not right. Let's choose to see the thing that was good and that you enjoyed and that we could be thankful for. Not everybody got to have that today.   Again, I have to have my, I have to be the parent. I have to be the discipler. I have to be in, you know, in charge of my own soul that wants to be negative all the time and say, nope, we're going to, we're going to choose gratitude today because the Bible tells us to do that.   There's something about that posture that opens the door for the gospel to be expressed through us. So, let's practice.   Laura Dugger: (59:40 - 59:50) Well said, and there's so much we could continue learning from both of you. Where can we go after this chat to learn more from each one of you?   Brian Smith: (59:52 - 1:00:14) Yeah, we do a lot of our writing online at thechristianathlete.com. And so, if you go there, you can see articles that are specifically written for parents, for coaches, for athletes, all around this idea of what does it look like to integrate faith and sport together? So, the

Listen, Learn, Live.

This is a session from the Practical(ly) Pastoring Conference. Chad Williams, lead teaching pastor at Building 28 in Clearwater and former church planter and Chick-fil-A leader, argues that many churches accidentally build discipleship like a corporate ladder. The result is efficiency without formation, status without maturity, and a system where people feel stuck. Using the 1911 South Pole race as a vivid illustration, Chad reframes disciple making as lanes, not levels: same destination, different pace, different proximity, different responsibilities. He grounds the model in Jesus' own practice with the 72, the 12, and the 3, then offers a practical framework for churches to clarify the destination, define disciple focuses, identify lanes, and implement resources at different speeds.Key takeawaysA shared destination does not require identical movementLevels organize people, lanes develop peopleLevels unintentionally create status and shame, Jesus' leadership is about carrying, not climbingJesus discipled in concentric circles, 72, 12, 3, same mission, different proximity and paceThe goal of discipleship is not a position, it's a person, ChristlikenessBuild a clear destination language, then choose a few disciple focuses for everyoneLanes let people change pace without feeling demoted, seasons change, lanes can tooPotential is found in the gap between vision and execution, most churches do not have a vision problem, they have an execution problem

If you placed your faith in Jesus, we are celebrating with you!Subscribe to Our Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEHNDPb5XMkf1LyqoTU30vg Help Support and Grow our Ministry to reach people around our community and spread the love of Jesus: https://transformchurch.com/giving/ Stay connected with us through our:Transform Church Website: https://transformchurch.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformchurchnj/Plan your next in-person visit. We are located at:Rutherford Location- The Williams Center9AM, 11AM, 1PM 15 Sylvan St, Rutherford NJLyndhurst Location- 10AM, 12PM525 Riverside Ave, Lyndhurst NJ

Faith in God is the most powerful and transformative tool any disciple has. Pastor Brandon explains how believing in the resurrection transforms us. John 20.

Pastor Christina teaches from Matthew 5:13–16 and reminds us that Jesus did not call us to blend in, but to stand out. We are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. When we live with courage, kindness, and conviction, people begin to see who He is through us!When we reflect Jesus clearly, others are drawn to Him. When we hide our faith, the world could miss the hope He offers. This message will inspire you to live in a way that helps others see Christ!

Disciple 10K (Ephesians 4:11-16) | Vision 2030 | Mike Kelsey

2026 - 0301 - Multiplying Disciples

The Gospel | Romans 7:7-25

Smoke and mirrors, illusions & fate...all parts of the grand plans of the master of change!  We really enjoyed the entirely new way this army will play.  We try to unravel the complex interactions of the new rule set, as well as some of the crazy potential for silliness...for you, not your opponent!  A great book in our opinion... Thanks as always for joining us.  Your support is truly appreciated. 1:47              Whispers From The Warp 17:28            The Emperor Lies 17:28                 Liber Nordstrumus 31:43                 Disciples of Tzeentch Battletome Review - Part I 1:14:55              Disciples of Tzeentch Battletome Review - Part II 2:10:14         Scriptorium 2:17:51         This or That 2:25:17         Show Close

In this episode of Journey of Hope, host Elio Constantine continues the mini-series with Bishop Dr. Yasser Eric in a powerful and thought-provoking conversation on “Understanding Political Islam and the Fear Narrative.” Together, they unpack one of the most complex and often misunderstood topics shaping global conversations today.Drawing from his personal journey—from being raised as a radical Sunni Muslim in Sudan to becoming a follower of Christ and now a bishop serving a global movement—Dr. Eric offers deep insight into the distinction between Islam as a faith and political Islam as an ideology. He addresses the roots of fear often associated with Islam and challenges listeners to move beyond generalizations toward informed, Christ-centered understanding.Throughout the episode, the conversation explores how fear can distort perception, hinder action, and prevent meaningful engagement. Dr. Eric explains how political Islam merges religion and state, the implications of Sharia law, and how extremist ideologies impact both Muslims and non-Muslims—highlighting that many of the primary victims are Muslims themselves.The discussion also sheds light on the reality of the persecuted Church in regions governed by strict religious laws, where believers often worship in secrecy and face immense cost for their faith. Yet, in the midst of suffering, there is resilience, growth, and a powerful testimony of unwavering faith.This episode is both eye-opening and deeply convicting, calling believers—especially in the West—to move from fear to faith, from comfort to conviction, and from passivity to prayerful action. It reminds us that following Christ has always come with a cost, and that there is much to learn from those who faithfully endure persecution. Show Notes:Understanding Political IslamDistinguishing between Islam as a religion and political Islam as an ideologyPolitical Islam merges religion with governance and lawLack of separation between state and faith creates societal and religious challengesThe Fear NarrativeFear often comes from misunderstanding and lack of definitionMedia and global events have shaped a generalized fear of IslamChristians are called to respond with truth, not fearImpact on Society and MuslimsPolitical Islam affects both non-Muslims and MuslimsMany victims of extremist ideologies are Muslims themselvesExamples include regions impacted by groups like ISIS, Boko Haram, and Al-ShabaabThe Persecuted ChurchBelievers in many regions face legal, social, and physical persecutionUnderground and house churches are often the only way to gatherConversion from Islam to Christianity can carry severe consequencesA Call to the Western ChurchFaith in Christ is not meant to be comfortable or cost-freeThere is much to learn from persecuted believersStanding firm in truth requires courage, conviction, and faithfulnessHow We Can RespondPray for the persecuted Church to endure and growLearn from global believers who live out costly faithSpeak truth with love and stand firm in biblical convictionsEngage actively rather than passively in matters of faith and justice 

Brought to you by UP! The Bank That's Got Young Aussies' Backs...Kipp Caddy is a pro surfer from the South Coast of NSW and one of the world's best heavy water exponents.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Disciples! Nate and I are back in the saddle again after my vacation, and we’ve got some catching up to do. BUT – More importantly, we’ve got some tunes to spin! Speaking of that – we’ve got two bands from the Ukraine: ‘Star Crystal’ and ‘Violent Omen’! Enjoy! ————————————————-What’s Nate been listening to?Artist: MayhemAlbum: Liturgy of DeathSong: Weep … Continue reading (389) DotW Featuring ‘Star Crystal’ and ‘Violent Omen’ →

Today we'll look at what Jim calls the "greatest prophetic passage in the Bible." The Disciples thought they had asked an easy question, but Jesus gave them an answer that we're still sorting out today. Some of them wanted to know, "What will be the sign when all these things are going to be fulfilled?" And the Lord gave them a very detailed reply. It would cover the destruction of Jerusalem, the Antichrist's blasphemy, and the return of Christ. Here's Jim to open his sermon, What is the Sign? Listen to Right Start Radio every Monday through Friday on WCVX 1160AM (Cincinnati, OH) at 9:30am, WHKC 91.5FM (Columbus, OH) at 5:00pm, WRFD 880AM (Columbus, OH) at 9:00am. Right Start can also be heard on One Christian Radio 107.7FM & 87.6FM in New Plymouth, New Zealand. You can purchase a copy of this message, unsegmented for broadcasting and in its entirety, for $7 on a single CD by calling +1 (800) 984-2313, and of course you can always listen online or download the message for free. RS02262026_0.mp3Scripture References: Mark 13:4

Sam and Stephen talk about player hooks, campaign starts, and the wet fart that is D&D 5E Supplement Books. We're only mostly joking about that last part. Remember, broadening your RPG system horizon can only improve your gamemaster skill. Don't forget, our Disciples of Antiquitius-1 Build Bounty is due Monday, March 2nd at 11:59PM. Submissions must be a Level 10 Solarian, must have some deep connection to Antiquitius-1. Can have an archetype if you'd like. Please include an outline of what makes your Solarian unique, as well as the event in their life that led them to become one of Antiquitius-1's students.Follow us on Bluesky: thedarktimespod.bsky.socialWant to ask something/submit a build? Email us at: thedarktimespod@gmail.comLogo designed by: @MothPunkStarfinder 2E at PaizoStarfinder 2E SubredditSupport the show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wednesday evening message from Pastor CJ Elwood. February 25, 2026

Give Attention to Reading | John 1-2

Our view of Jesus affects the way we view God, the world, ourselves, and every one of our decisions. What we do with Jesus determines where we will spend eternity. In this series, The Person of Jesus, we will get a glimpse into the life of Christ. We will come face to face with the Savior. We will learn about His attributes, His character, and His love for all mankind. No one on earth has changed the face of history like the Lord Jesus Christ. No matter your past, Jesus Christ can forgive you and change your life forever.

“When Scripture calls God's people a kingdom of priests, it's describing a way of life. Disciple-making is what priesthood looks like when it's lived out in ordinary relationships. Takeaway: Disciple-making is what priesthood looks like when it's lived out in ordinary relationships.   Action Step: Live out your priesthood this week by identifying your parish, sharing God's Word w/ at least one person, and caring them in prayer to God.”    Show Notes: Watch Us On YouTube  Justin's Website Tony's Website Navigators Church Ministries The Follow2Lead Podcast

In this episode of Youth Worker on Fire, Doug Edwards sits down with Doug Holliday, global disciple-making leader and Executive Director of Sonlife, for a powerful conversation about Israel, youth ministry, and the next generation's worldview. After traveling together to Israel, they reflect on: • Why ministry leaders chose to go despite global tension • What they witnessed at the Nova Festival site and memorials • How media narratives shape the next generation's thinking • Why so many students don't understand the history of Israel • The difference between soundbite culture and biblical context • How youth pastors can disciple students toward a biblical worldview • Why walking where Jesus walked changes how you read Scripture • The spiritual significance of Israel in end-times prophecy This episode challenges youth pastors, ministry volunteers, Christian educators, and parents to move beyond headlines and help students think deeply, historically, and biblically. In a world where social media shapes truth, youth leaders must equip students to filter culture through Scripture — not the other way around. If you care about: ✔ Disciple-making youth ministry ✔ Helping students think critically ✔ Teaching biblical worldview ✔ Navigating Israel conversations wisely ✔ Strengthening the next generation's faith This episode is for you. _________________________________________________________________________________

in this episode of revival: a good news brand podcast, dave butler and stephan taeger discuss “the power of ministering to the one” by elder peter m. johnson, exploring what true discipleship looks like in everyday life. sparked by dave's emotional news about his daughter submitting her mission papers, the conversation moves into the simple but transformative call to minister to individuals with love and intention. they reflect on remembering past spiritual experiences during seasons of doubt, creating safe spaces free from judgment, and trusting that while we cannot fix people, we can love them and point them to christ. blending humor, personal stories, and heartfelt testimony, the episode reminds listeners that jesus has overcome the world, and that steady promise gives us courage and good cheer as we care for the one.join us for a weekly revival!your hosts, david butler & stephan taeger

​ @WhiteStoneName  Is the Main Player in Minneapolis as the Epicenter of the Culture War? https://youtu.be/3srqmpWO_Lg?si=fYLpkYwTOBEe-gqL The London Dream 3 years in. What are the bowls of light? TLC? Estuary? Electricity Out? https://youtu.be/xEHatQvVONc?si=aI8uELNsc3FzSfdi https://paulvanderklay.substack.com/p/the-dream  @MarkDParker  Consumer or Disciple? https://www.youtube.com/live/YrtNrjxIx3o?si=Y5cGRoI1Ly7MqZGv  @GrimGriz  FRINGE ENCOUNTER: GrimGriz and Matthieu Pageau https://youtu.be/MVU-67Wgez0?si=Yk_sCrUvDTsFtOO5  @MoreChrist  Episode 146: Christian Baxter and George Harrell: The State of TLC and Christians after Christendom https://youtu.be/JipWPCWziEc?si=JAtwdvtWxfv1sgdW with  @christianbaxter_yt    What is the TLC? ("This little corner of the Internet" also know as "the corner" https://youtu.be/Y3vqSjywot8?si=IVS3bnriwje5syPO https://www.livingstonescrc.com/give Register for the Estuary/Cleanup Weekend https://lscrc.elvanto.net/form/94f5e542-facc-4764-9883-442f982df447 Paul Vander Klay clips channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX0jIcadtoxELSwehCh5QTg https://www.meetup.com/sacramento-estuary/ My Substack https://paulvanderklay.substack.com/ Bridges of meaning https://discord.gg/mtKUnMKS Estuary Hub Link https://www.estuaryhub.com/ There is a video version of this podcast on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/paulvanderklay To listen to this on ITunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/paul-vanderklays-podcast/id1394314333  If you need the RSS feed for your podcast player https://paulvanderklay.podbean.com/feed/  All Amazon links here are part of the Amazon Affiliate Program. Amazon pays me a small commission at no additional cost to you if you buy through one of the product links here. This is is one (free to you) way to support my videos.  https://paypal.me/paulvanderklay Blockchain backup on Lbry https://odysee.com/@paulvanderklay https://www.patreon.com/paulvanderklay Paul's Church Content at Living Stones Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh7bdktIALZ9Nq41oVCvW-A To support Paul's work by supporting his church give here. https://tithe.ly/give?c=2160640 https://www.livingstonescrc.com/give  

Our view of Jesus affects the way we view God, the world, ourselves, and every one of our decisions. What we do with Jesus determines where we will spend eternity. In this series, The Person of Jesus, we will get a glimpse into the life of Christ. We will come face to face with the Savior. We will learn about His attributes, His character, and His love for all mankind. No one on earth has changed the face of history like the Lord Jesus Christ. No matter your past, Jesus Christ can forgive you and change your life forever.

Stay Connected With UsWebsite: anchorfaith.comAnchor Faith Church Facebook: www.facebook.com/anchorfaithAnchor Faith Church Instagram: www.instagram.com/anchorfaithPastor Earl Glisson Facebook: www.facebook.com/earlwglissonPastor Earl Glisson Instagram: www.instagram.com/earlglisson

Inside our theme of love this month, this week we are talking about the importance of intimacy. Intimacy is the word to describe when people get really close, and also when we choose to get close to God. Yesterday, we read that He has made the first move through Jesus and wants to be as close to us as we will allow.Let me remind you of how we defined intimacy yesterday: In-to-me-see. That means allowing someone to see your heart and who you truly are.For most of us, one of the big things that brings us to our knees and helps us choose to reach out to God is when our hearts are broken. When life is going incredible and we're on top of the world, we can fail to see our need for God. But when everything falls apart and goes wrong, we realize we need help, that we cannot do life alone. Especially when people fail us and hurt us, we tend to look up, not out.Listen to today's passage …The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. The righteous person faces many troubles, but the Lord comes to the rescue each time. (Psalm 34:17-19 NLT)How does God hear us? When we call for help.When is He close to us? When we are brokenhearted.Will He keep us from having troubles? No, but He promises to be there when we do.Listen to this same passage in The Message Bible …Is anyone crying for help? God is listening, ready to rescue you. If your heart is broken, you'll find God right there; if you're kicked in the gut, he'll help you catch your breath. Disciples so often get into trouble; still, God is there every time.Have you already discovered this to be true in your relationship with God? Or do you need to test it out for the first time?There aren't a lot of guarantees in this life, but I can say this: God will never let you down. There will be trouble and your heart will be broken, but He will be there when you reach out.Let's pray together: “Heavenly Father, thank You that You know what to do with my broken heart. Thank You that You will provide help to me when I need it most. When trouble comes, help me to come to You right away and never wait to try and solve my problems on my own. As above, so below.”

In this powerful episode, Pastor Walter Zuniga delivers an inspiring word on what it truly means to live with passion as a disciple of Christ. This message will challenge, encourage, and ignite your faith.Make sure to listen, be blessed, and share it with someone who needs it! Here you find all podcast episodesby SOS Church Stockholm; a church for all people and all nations that want tolive the Book of Acts, in Stockholm and to the ends of the earth.

I det här kraftfulla avsnittet delar Pastor Walter Zuniga ett inspirerande budskap om vad det verkligen innebär att leva med passion som en Jesu lärjunge. Det här budskapet kommer att utmana dig, uppmuntra dig och tända din tro.Se till att lyssna, bli välsignad och dela med någon som behöver det! Här hittar du alla podcastavsnitt från SOS Church Stockholm – en kyrka för alla människor och alla nationer som vill leva ut Apostlagärningarna, i Stockholm och till jordens yttersta gräns.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Aligning Your Church for Disciple Making: Five Shifts, One Mission This session is on aligning churches around Jesus' method of intentional, relational disciple making. They share personal ministry journeys and describe the challenge of shifting established, often attractional church systems toward obedience-based disciple making rooted in the Great Commission (Matthew 28) and maturity in Christ (Colossians 1). Using an iPhone vs. Android operating system metaphor, they argue disciple making can't be added as a side program but must reshape the whole church. They present research findings that fewer than 5% of U.S. churches have a culture rooted in Jesus-style disciple making and outline four core practices seen in exemplary churches: convictional leadership, a contextual and reproducible model, high expectations, and cultural alignment. 00:00 Welcome & Why Disciple-Making Alignment Matters 04:03 Jeff Story: From Slogans to a Disciple-Making Culture 08:23 Paul: Leaving Membership Metrics for Making Disciples 13:24 Training Process Overview + The iPhone vs. Droid ‘Operating System' Metaphor 18:59 State of Disciple-Making in North America + Jesus' Intentional Relational Method 21:40 The Great Commission Explained: ‘Make Disciples' and Obedience-Based Faith 27:09 Beyond ‘Evangelism' vs ‘Discipleship': One Mission—Salvation to Maturity 32:38 Bobby's Journey: Coleman, Church Systems, Disciple Shift, and Renew's Theology 41:07 Research Findings: Why Most Churches Aren't Disciple-Making Churches 44:57 The 4 Core Practices: Convictional Leadership, Model, Expectations, Alignment 50:09 Why Revelation's First 3 Chapters Matter Most (Jesus & the Churches) 52:38 Legacy Church Challenge: Shifting to a Discipleship Culture Without Blowing It Up 54:05 Defining a Disciple: Follow Jesus, Be Changed, Join the Mission 56:01 Personal Discipleship Story: Learning to Make Disciples Who Make Disciples 57:24 Why People Struggle to Disciple: The Baseball Analogy 01:00:15 Early Momentum & Staff Culture Change: Baptisms, Next Steps, Monday Stories 01:02:01 The Discipleship Mandate ‘Cumulative': Jesus, Church, NT, Leaders, Gathering 01:11:43 Alignment Killers: Competing Agendas, Wrong Metrics, Instant-Result Expectations 01:13:36 10 Levers to Use (Not Demonize): Large Church, Sunday, Pulpit, Tradition, Doctrine 01:23:20 Five-Part Roadmap: Missional, Theological, Philosophical, Organizational, Relational 01:27:57 Break, Then Missional Alignment Deep Dive: Love God, Love People, Then Make Disciples 01:32:38 Avoiding Counterfeit Missions: Tradition, Buildings, and Other Substitutes 01:33:20 C.S. Lewis on the Church's One Job: Make Disciples 01:34:12 Mission-Driven vs Member-Driven (and Keeping Jesus' Mission Central) 01:35:04 Theological Alignment: Why Clarity Is Kindness 01:36:52 Beyond ‘Essentials/Non-Essentials': A Better Doctrine Framework 01:42:29 A Replicable System for Teaching Core Doctrine (Catechism DNA) 01:44:35 Micro Groups & ‘Trust and Follow Jesus': Simple, Proven, Reproducible 01:47:42 Philosophical Alignment: The Jesus Way—Intentional, Relational, Transformational 01:52:29 Organizational Alignment: Leading Change Without Blowing Up the Church 02:00:26 Relational Alignment: Love, Conflict, and the Messiness of Real Discipleship 02:11:31 Next Steps & Final Charge: Join the Alignment Training + Keep Making Disciples https://renew.org/ Check out the following from RENEW.org: Events: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Videos: https://renew.org/media/videos/ Podcasts: https://renew.org/media/podcasts/ Articles: https://renew.org/articles/ Free eBooks: https://renew.org/resources/free-ebooks/ Books: https://renew.org/resources/books/ Audiobooks: https://renew.org/resources/audiobooks/ Sermon Tools: https://renew.org/resources/sermon-tools/ Job Board: https://jobs.renew.org/ Renew University: https://renewuniversity.org/ Real Life Theology Conversations: https://renew.org/rltc/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early.  https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Be sure to like, subscribe and follow on social media!  You can find us on: Instagram: @the.renew.network  Facebook: Renew.org  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RENEWnetwork Twitter: @therenewnetwork TikTok: the.renew.network  Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/RENEW

What if we've confused church activity with actual discipleship? In this message, Pastor Randy walks through a question that has been shaping Everyday Church for the last two years: What does a disciple of Jesus actually look like? Jesus didn't call us to build crowds. He called us to make disciples. But in a culture filled with programs, production, and noise, it's easy to drift from formation into activity. From Matthew 28, we're reminded that discipleship is defined by obedience — not attendance, not applause, not atmosphere. This message introduces the GLAD pathway: Grow in Christ Love Deeply Advance the Mission Disciple Others This isn't a program. This isn't a campaign. This is formation.   The question isn't whether we enjoy church. The question is — Are we disciples?   From Sunday 02.22.26

A practitioner in Finland shares how he came to recognize that even after having lived in the West for ten years, he continued to display the characteristically of communist party culture. With persistent Fa study, as well reading the Epoch Times books on this topic, he has been able to let go of the remnants of the competitive and self-serving party culture. This and other experience-sharing from the Minghui website.Original Articles:1. [Fahui] Eliminating Party Culture to Become a Truly Cultivating Dafa Disciple in the Fa-Rectification Period2. Righteous Thoughts at Key Moments in My Cultivation3. My Understanding of Eliminating Thought Karma and the Attachment to Comfort To provide feedback on this podcast, please email us at feedback@minghuiradio.org

In this powerful conversation, Peyton sits down with his longtime mentor and friend, Larry Walkemeyer, to unpack why disciple-making must come before church multiplication, and why so many movements stall when they skip that step.Drawing from themes in Discipology and Larry's forthcoming book The Making of a Multiplier, this episode explores the deep connection between time, teaching, and tactics — the three rhythms of Jesus' disciple-making strategy that ultimately led to explosive Kingdom impact.Larry shares:Why the priesthood of all believers is the theological foundation of mobilizationHow relational disciple-making fuels true multiplicationA powerful personal vision that reshaped his ministry philosophyWhy you can't teach multiplication into existence The difference between a “lake mentality” and a “river mentality” churchYou'll also hear stories of everyday believers who became disciple-makers simply because someone walked closely with them long enough for the fire to catch.If you're passionate about church planting, leadership development, or seeing movements multiply, this episode will challenge you to slow down, go deep, and mobilize before you multiply.Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode:DiscipologyBook.comReliant Mission: reliant.org/cppNewBreed TrainingThanks for listening to the church planter podcast. We're here to help you go where no one else is going and do what no one else is doing to reach people, no one else is reaching.Make sure to review and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast service to help us connect with more church planters.

As disciples in relationship with one another, we will disagree. HOW we handle it confirms whether or not we are true disciples. Galatians 2:7-16

This week Pastor Deron continues our "More and Better" series and talks about the call of Jesus to his disciples to repent. Our Verse this week isLUKE 24:46-4946 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

This week Pastor Deron talks about the necessity and the power of water Baptism as we prepare for Baptism Sunday on March 1.Scripture Today Based out ofMATT 3 VS 16-1716 When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and [b]He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. 17 And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

This week we continue our series called "Experiences of a Disciple". This week's message is called "Loving The Lost" given by Pastor EJ Tena. If you would like to support this ministry text "GIVE" to 479-777-4264 visit trcchurch.snappages.site for more information about us and our ministry.

John 14:1-14 - Facing Turbulence  |  Series: Not Alone - Easter 2026  | Upper Room Discourse |  Sam Holm, Lead Pastor |  Preached 2-22-26 10:45am  Tag: Easter, Good Friday, Ash Wednesday, Lent, Fasting, Prayer, Last Supper, Jesus, Disciples, Teaching, Upper Room, Plane, Fly, Trouble, Airplane, Help, Pilot, Trust, Grace, Ask, Pray

Sanctified Compassion That Doesn't Cost You Your Peace!Hello, beloved! Our study has been pretty eye-opening, right? Today, Pastor Carina discusses the importance of compassion, setting healthy boundaries, and how compassion leads to personal growth so you can keep your peace.Pastor Carina is a Christian life coach, Keynote Speaker, and Mentor who God has uniquely gifted to activate others in the body of Christ. She carries an anointing to stir dormant callings, awaken spiritual gifts, and ignite Kingdom assignments,  empowering believers to step boldly into their God-given identity, walk in divine purpose, and bear lasting fruit for His glory. She's the Founder of Trumpets of Tirzah, an international apostolic center for women that facilitates purpose discovery, Kingdom lifestyle practices, and biblical leadership disciplines so that women can live, and lead, a "new creation" life that reflects Jesus. Her personal coaching, group mentoring, and Tirzah University courses provide keys of radical transformation that launch women into spheres of influence around the world.Tirzah University is the only educational institution in the world that focuses on the Apostolic role of women in the body of Christ while educating, equipping and empowering women to walk confidently in their God-given role. Come study with us: www.TirzahUniversity.com Your support plants seeds and grows the Kingdom of God! We are a 501c3 - www.trumpetsoftirzah.com/donateLuxury anointing oils and anointing lotions: https://www.trumpetsoftirzah.com/category/anointingAnd take a look at how we are sharing the gospel through film:https://www.trumpetsoftirzah.com/mastersmedia******************************************************** Awaken. Arise. Advance.https://www.trumpetsoftirzah.comDo you want your Christian product advertised on our podcast? Book your ad on Fiver.https://www.fiverr.com/s/NNLl8pN Get your Amplified Bible: https://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?event=AFF&p=1223731&item_no=0446538We host in-person and virtual events. Check out our website events page to join in the fun. We are a community of women leaders with creative hearts desiring to follow the examples of Jesus above all else. We are located in the heart of Temecula, CA.Let's connect and journey through life together! We are a mature community of Kingdom believers standing bolding in God's truth and partnering with the Holy Spirit.Shopping for Christian gifts? Here's a link to discounted quality gifts: https://www.christianbook.com/page/gifts?event=AFF&p=1223731Engage daily with us! Instagram https://www.instagram.com/trumpetsoftirzah/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@trumpetsoftirzahLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/trumpetsoftirzah iHeart Radio  ⁠https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-trumpets-of-tirzah-120477377/⁠ Amazon Music. ⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c0203ed1-9b85-426a-85f5-5350e82ab730/trumpets-of-tirzah⁠ Apple Podcasts. ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trumpets-of-tirzah/id1551900025⁠ Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4DCT4KBVsmzfnqyobR4ZwF Apple Podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trumpets-of-tirzah/id1551900025YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TrumpetsofTirzahRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-5936184spiritual authority,holy spirit power,spiritual growth,authority in christ,faith over fear,christian motivation,grow your faith,kingdom builders live,kingdom message,apostolic preaching,apostolic faith church,live wednesday,christian live stream,digital discipleship,digital disciple ministries,bible study,faith,jesus,prayer,sermon,trust god,christian virtual fellowship,faith journey,holy spirit understanding,glory of love,believe in miracles,inspire, Disciple makers podcast,Female Christian speakers YouTube, kingdom faith coach, grow your faith today, living as a christian in todays world, inner healing podcast

Cullan, Justin and special Guest Eli read and talk about persecution

Send a textIn this episode, Pastor Ed teaches us about the unconditional love of God. John 3:1616 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.Romans 5:88 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.Galatians 5:22-2322 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.1 Corinthians 13:1-71 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. 4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; 6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.Mark 12:29-3129 Jesus answered him, “The first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.' This is the first commandment. 31 And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these.”Ephesians 2:4-54 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),Proverbs 3:3-43 Let not mercy and truth forsake you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart, 4 And so find favor and high esteem In the sight of God and man.Romans 8:38-3938 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

John 14:1-14 - Facing Turbulence  |  Series: Not Alone - Easter 2026  | Upper Room Discourse |  Sam Holm, Lead Pastor |  Preached 2-22-26 10:45am  Tag: Easter, Good Friday, Ash Wednesday, Lent, Fasting, Prayer, Last Supper, Jesus, Disciples, Teaching, Upper Room, Plane, Fly, Trouble, Airplane, Help, Pilot, Trust, Grace, Ask, Pray

The temptation isn't to want bad things. The temptation is to want good things so badly that we'll accept any path that gets us there. Safety. Order. Security. Provision. These are real goods. The question is whether the path to them builds the kind of community we actually want to live in, or whether it produces the desired outcome but poisons the groundwater. Subscribe to us on iTunes! Sermon text: web | doc

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Woodland Campus | Pastor Nathaniel begins to teach on the expressions with our new culture.