Podcast appearances and mentions of jason polk

In this episode of 'Solving Disconnection and Creating Connected Relationships for Couples and Parents,' therapist and coach Jason Polk delves into the importance of repair in relationships, why it's challenging, and how to effectively navigate it. Polk explains the concept of repair as restoring relationships after conflicts and discusses two main barriers: ego and lack of skills. He shares personal insights and strategies, including the importance of repairing in the moment and post-conflict methods like offering a sincere apology and sharing vulnerability. He emphasizes that repair is vital for healthy relationships and provides practical advice for couples to enhance their connection. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize repair over ego for the sake of their relationships and families.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:28 Understanding Conflict and Repair01:11 The Role of Ego in Repair03:39 Repairing in the Moment05:15 Repairing After a Fight08:00 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFeedback Wheel PDFThis episode was inspired by this blog: The Art of Repair: What It Means and Why It's So Hard

In this sermon, Pastor Jason invites us to reflect on what it truly means to be the church—a flock led by the Good Shepherd. Rooted in John 10, this message unpacks the rich imagery of Jesus as both the Door and the Shepherd: the only way into the Kingdom and the one who protects, guides, and knows us by name. Pastor Jason reminds us that following Jesus isn't about performance or religion—it's about relationship. He challenges us to ask hard questions: Do we recognize the Shepherd's voice? Are we following Him together as one flock? And are we willing to walk in the direction He's breathing life into, even when it doesn't match our own plans? Whether you've wandered or stood faithfully in the fold, this sermon will realign your heart with the Shepherd who doesn't just save, but walks with you daily.   04:14 The Importance of Community and Service 07:27 Metaphors of the Church: Flock and Shepherd 12:43 Understanding Our Role as Sheep 20:00 Jesus: The Door and Good Shepherd 28:44 Jesus as the Door and Good Shepherd 31:03 The Role of the Good Shepherd 35:44 Jesus Conquers Death for His Sheep 39:33 Expectations of the Sheep 51:44 Following the Shepherd Together

In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of unity and love within the church, particularly in the face of diversity and differing opinions. Drawing from Romans 14 and 15,  he discusses how to navigate conflicts and maintain a spirit of acceptance and understanding among believers. The message encourages listeners to prioritize the Word of God over cultural influences and to engage in ministry together, preparing for both challenges and opportunities in the church community. In this conversation, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of loving confrontation among Christians, highlighting that our first instinct should be to love and welcome others before pointing out their flaws. The discussion moves into the necessity of calibrating our conscience to align with God's standards, encouraging believers to engage in meaningful conversations about differences while maintaining love and acceptance. Pastor Jason stresses that the ultimate goal is to build each other up in faith, following Christ's example of love and service, and challenges listeners to love others in ways that resonate with their unique needs. 00:00 Opening Prayer and Heart for the Church 01:12 The Importance of Expositional Teaching 03:37 Preparing for Summer Ministry 05:35 Unity in Diversity: The Church's Challenge 09:53 The Influence of Culture on Christian Behavior 12:11 Adjusting Expectations in the Church 14:31 Love and Diversity of Opinion 17:51 The Greatest Commandments as Our Filter 19:12 Context of Romans: Addressing Conflict 27:28 Accepting One Another in Christ 29:24 Loving Confrontation: The Christian Approach 34:29 Calibrating Conscience: Understanding Right and Wrong 43:12 The Aim of Love: Building Each Other Up 47:01 Following Christ's Example: The Ultimate Model of Love

This week at Echo Church, Pastor Jason takes us into Hebrews 10 to answer a profound question: Why do we gather? In a powerful and heartfelt message, he unpacks the deep spiritual significance of the church community—not as a duty, but as an invitation into something sacred. He reminds us that gathering weekly isn't about obligation; it's about opportunity—an open door into the Holy of Holies made possible through Jesus, our Great High Priest. Pastor Jason challenges us to see church as the place where we live out the confession of our faith, where confidence is nurtured, and action is inspired. It's more than a meeting—it's a glimpse of heaven. Church is the closest thing we have to holy fellowship with the angels and saints this side of eternity—a sacred rehearsal for the everlasting worship and unbreakable community we'll one day experience forever.  

In this sermon, Pastor Jason walks us through the foundational marks of the early church, highlighting how believers responded after Christ's resurrection. Beginning with a celebration of worship, Pastor Jason reflects on the importance of the resurrection and how it ignited the formation of the early church. Pastor Jason explores how the church was never meant to be just an institution but a dynamic, Spirit-empowered movement. Through the empowerment of the disciples by the Holy Spirit, the early believers lived lives radically devoted to God's purposes. This sermon focuses on five key devotions that shaped the life and impact of the early church: Devotion to the Word of God – A commitment to truth that grounded their faith. Devotion to Community and Fellowship – Living in authentic, sacrificial relationships. Devotion to Worship – Honoring God with hearts full of praise and reverence. Devotion to Witness and Evangelism – Boldly proclaiming the gospel and expanding the Kingdom. With a heartfelt conclusion and call to action, Pastor Jason challenges us to rekindle these devotions in our lives today, reminding us that the same Spirit who empowered the early church is still at work in us now.   00:00 Introduction and Celebration of Worship 02:34 The Importance of the Resurrection and Early Church Formation 06:23 Understanding the Church as a Movement 10:42 Empowerment of the Disciples and the Role of the Holy Spirit 14:29 Devotion of the Early Church 20:23 Devotion to the Word of God 24:30 Devotion to Community and Fellowship 28:20 Devotion to Worship 32:26 Devotion to Witness and Evangelism 36:17 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of 'Solving Disconnection and Creating Connected Relationships for Couples and Parents,' Jason Polk, a therapist and coach with over 10 years of experience, discusses the financial and emotional costs of marriage counseling versus divorce. Jason highlights the expense and emotional toll of contested divorces, which can range from $10,000 to $15,000, compared to the relatively lower cost of marriage counseling. He explains how counseling can help either salvage a relationship or make the separation process more compassionate and dignified. Jason states that counseling can be valuable in creating healthier futures, whether couples stay together or separate.00:00 Introduction to the Show00:27 Marriage Counseling vs. Divorce: An Overview00:39 Financial and Emotional Costs of Divorce02:17 The Role of Marriage Counseling05:23 When Divorce is Inevitable06:15 Cost Comparison: Counseling vs. Divorce06:48 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsCouples Intensive episode.This episode was inspired by Jason's blog post. Jason's marriage counseling practice.

In this sermon, Pastor Jason Polk leads us through the heart of the Easter story—where Jesus conquers death, leaves the grave empty, and invites us into resurrection life. Pastor Jason declares that if Jesus got out of the grave, there's hope for all of us. He shares the significance of the resurrection—not just as a historical event, but a present reality that changes everything. The resurrection invites us to confront the empty tomb and ask ourselves: Why are we still searching for life in dead places? We hear the voices of angels echoing from Luke 24: “He is not here—He has risen.” And from there, Pastor Jason takes us into the weight of that truth: If it's real, it's everything. He unpacks common doubts about the resurrection, highlights the bravery of the early disciples who were willing to die for what they saw, and challenges us to consider what we're doing with the hope we've been given. This message is more than a celebration—it's a commissioning. Because Jesus lives, we are: Saved from our sins. Empowered by His Spirit. Victorious over death. It's an invitation to run—not to the grave, but to the Savior. To make a new commitment, to stop hiding in shame, and to step into resurrection power.  This Easter, Pastor Jason reminds us that the grave has no grip, death has no sting, and hope has a name: Jesus. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Community and Worship 03:14 The Heart of the Church: A Place for Everyone 05:28 The Resurrection: The Foundation of Our Faith 11:00 Exploring Theories of the Resurrection 16:29 The Evidence of the Resurrection 20:24 The Question of the Angels: Seeking Life in Dead Places 25:55 Resurrection Power and Hope 30:45 The Disciples' Encounter with the Risen Christ 33:40 Understanding the Scriptures and Fulfillment of Prophecy 36:54 The Living Hope for Followers of Jesus 44:01 Responding to the Resurrection: Commitments and Worship

In this sermon, Pastor Jason Polk takes us to the heart of the Palm Sunday narrative—where Jesus is declared King by the crowd, rides into Jerusalem on a donkey, and immediately sets to work flipping tables and expectations. Pastor Jason emphasizes that restoration begins with coronation—acknowledging Jesus as the King of our hearts and lives. Through rich narrative and humor, he paints the scene of a city swelling with hope, a people longing for deliverance, and a Savior who defies every worldly notion of power. He explores the significance of Jesus' obedience to prophecy, His heart that weeps for those who are close yet still far, and His bold act of cleansing the temple—a call to make space for God to truly dwell within us. This message is a powerful reminder that Jesus is not just a gentle King riding in humility—He is a King who remodels, restores, and reigns. And when we throw down our cloaks and declare Him as King, we invite real transformation into every part of our lives. Show Chapters: 00:29 — Why Palm Sunday Still Matters 06:44 — Setting the Scene: Jerusalem's Crowds & Expectations 12:16 — Prophecy Fulfilled: Why Jesus Rode a Donkey 18:55 — Language Barriers: Misunderstanding the King 24:02 — Jesus Weeps: The Heart of God for His People 30:18 — Turning Tables: The Temple, Remodeling, and Our Hearts 40:01 — House of Prayer or Den of Robbers? 47:55 — Bridge Builders, Not Wall Builders 52:17 — Responding to the King: Reflection and Coronation

Understanding Cheating: Definitions, Impacts, and Pathways to HealingIn this episode of 'Solving Disconnection and Creating Connected Relationships for Couples and Parents,' therapist and coach Jason Polk explores the complex topic of cheating. He delves into the different forms of infidelity, including financial and emotional cheating, and emphasizes the importance of explicit agreements between partners. Polk also discusses the synonyms and antonyms of cheating and provides insights into how a lack of openness can create a breeding ground for infidelity. Key takeaways include the critical role of trust, honesty, and transparency in preventing and recovering from betrayal.00:00 Introduction to the Show00:22 Defining Cheating and Infidelity01:12 Types of Cheating02:03 Importance of Agreements in Relationships03:29 Emotional Affairs and Implicit Agreements05:00 Antonyms of Cheating05:21 Conditions Leading to Cheating06:20 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis blog inspired this episode: What is considered cheating? 

In this final sermon of the Above and Beyond on Prayer series, Pastor Jason Polk dives deep into 1 Kings 18-19 and the art of listening for God's voice—the still small whisper that often goes unnoticed. He explains that while we might expect dramatic signs, God often speaks in a gentle, subtle way. Many times, we miss His voice because we aren't prepared to hear it, or we're distracted by the noise of everyday life. Pastor Jason highlights several reasons why we might not think God is speaking. He notes that we often fail to expect God to communicate, having been conditioned by past experiences or traditions that don't emphasize an active, listening relationship with Him. Additionally, our own busy lives and constant distractions drown out that quiet whisper, leaving us wondering whether what we hear is truly from God or just our own thoughts and emotions. To help us discern God's voice, Pastor Jason offers practical tips: first, test what you hear against Scripture—if it doesn't align with biblical truth (or the “Jesus test”), it's not from Him. Second, seek confirmation from your community of faith, as shared wisdom can validate what you perceive. Lastly, take time to reflect in silence, turning down the volume of the world to fully embrace that quiet, transformative moment when God speaks.    Show Chapters:    00:31 Listening to God: Understanding His Voice   06:32 How God Speaks: Biblical Examples   09:28 Elijah's Encounter with God   11:42 Understanding How God Speaks   16:09 Barriers to Hearing God's Voice   23:53 Testing the Voice of God   33:02 Learning to Listen to God   42:15 Closing Reflections and Prayer

In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of prayer, confession, and genuine repentance when responding to sin. By looking at how Saul and David each handled their failures, Pastor Jason draws out some important truths about repentance. First, we need to acknowledge our sin instead of justifying it. Second, we must take responsibility for our actions, not pass the blame. Finally, true repentance involves coming to God with a sincere heart, seeking a restored relationship with Him, rather than relying on sacrifices or good deeds. Pastor Jason reminds us that real repentance is about honesty, accountability, and a desire for genuine reconciliation with God. This is the only path out of our sin and shame and into God's mercy and joy.    00:00 Understanding Our Identity in Christ   02:28 Exploring Prayer and Dependence on God   12:18 Contrasting Responses to Sin   22:12 The Role of Confession and Repentance   27:17 The Importance of Daily Confession   29:39 Contrasting Attitudes: Saul vs. David   34:14 Acknowledging Sin vs. Justifying It   39:29 Taking Responsibility vs. Passing Blame   45:29 Sacrifices vs. True Brokenness   52:12 The Joy of Restoration and Forgiveness  

In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the vital role of persistent prayer in the life of a believer. He acknowledges the common struggles many face in maintaining a consistent prayer life, such as the challenges of self-discipline and doubt. Despite these obstacles, Pastor Jason highlights the example set by Jesus, who, even in His ministry, relied deeply on prayer. He encourages the congregation to approach God with a spirit of desperation, boldness, and unwavering persistence. Through this approach, Pastor Jason reminds listeners that prayer is not just a routine but a powerful and essential connection to God that strengthens faith and deepens trust in His will. Chapters 00:00 The Role of Prayer in Ministry 11:01 The Power of Prayer as Ministry 12:38 Hurdles to Prayer: Self-Discipline and Doubt 14:27 Understanding Unanswered Prayer 16:27 The Parable of Persistence in Prayer 23:47 Desperation, Boldness, and Persistence in Prayer 31:02 Trusting God in Unanswered Prayer 35:36 The Presence of God vs. Answered Prayer

In this sermon, Pastor Jason talks about the incredible power of prayer. He highlights Jesus many promises about prayer throughout Scripture, promises that guarantee that prayer will bear results—those who seek will find, and those who knock will get an answer. But Pastor Jason also reminds us that there are important conditions to prayer. Rather than praying timidly, we need to approach God with boldness and child-like faith, believing that our prayers have power and that God will move.       00:00 Prayer: A Relationship, Not a Ritual 21:57 The Transformative Power of Prayer 30:09 Parenting and Spiritual Growth 36:47 Faith and Trust in God

In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of praying faithfully—not simply to receive earthly rewards, but to experience the greatest reward of all: an intimate, daily relationship with our Creator. Using Matthew 6, Pastor Jason highlights key truths about prayer from Jesus' teachings. Jesus models the importance of identifying the object of our prayer, committing to God's purposes, asking for help, and most importantly, seeking the presence of God. While the structure of the Sermon on the Mount provides valuable guidance, Pastor Jason stresses that "prayer is not a discipline to perfect but a dependence to surrender to.” Ultimately, this sermon encourages listeners to faithfully build a relationship with God through prayer and recognize that God is our ultimate reward.  Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Worship and Surrender 02:54 Understanding Prayer as a Relationship 05:44 The Role of Faith in Prayer 09:09 The Lord's Prayer: Structure and Purpose 11:42 The Importance of Motive in Prayer 14:58 The Concept of Reward in Prayer 17:51 Pursuing God as Our Reward 21:05 How to Pray: Practical Steps 23:53 Seeking God's Presence in Prayer  

In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of worship, community, and prayer in the life of a believer. The sermon revolves around understanding prayer not just as a discipline but as a lifestyle that connects us to God. The speaker highlights the power of earnest prayer, the significance of obedience, and the role of the church in spiritual warfare. The conversation concludes with a call to expect God's intervention and to respond to His faithfulness in our lives. 00:00 The Power of Worship and Community 04:01 Understanding the Purpose of Prayer 08:02 The Importance of Access to God 11:21 Recognizing Spiritual Warfare 15:06 The Nature of Earnest Prayer 18:51 The Church's Response to Persecution 27:37 The Church's Grief and Urgent Prayer 29:47 Peter's Unshakeable Faith in Crisis 33:06 Obedience Before Freedom 36:55 Identifying Our Own Captivities 39:18 The Power of Prayer and Community 44:09 Expecting God's Faithfulness 47:48 The Mission Continues Despite Persecution 49:58 Responding to God's Work in Our Lives

February 2nd, 2025  In this sermon, Pastor Jason emphasizes the importance of emotional worship, the power of prayer, and the transformative nature of a relationship with God. The sermon revolves around reflecting on past experiences, setting spiritual goals, and understanding prayer not as a discipline to perfect but as a dependence to surrender to. Pastor Jason highlights the significance of being filled with the fullness of God and the ultimate goal of glorifying Him through our lives and prayers. 00:00 The Power of Prayer in Our Lives 05:42 The Journey of Prayer: A Cultural Shift 08:44 Understanding Prayer: Relationship Over Ritual 11:16 Paul's Prayer: A Model for Transformation 14:45 The Depths of Our Being: Identity and Change 18:19 Experiencing the Love of Christ 24:43 Filled with the Fullness of God 32:37 The Purpose of Prayer: Glorifying God

In this conversation, the Pastor Jason emphasizes the unwavering faithfulness of God and the importance of our response to His plans. Through the story of Moses and the Israelites, the speaker illustrates how God has a plan for each individual, even in moments of chaos and uncertainty. The message encourages listeners to trust in God's control, to respond actively to His call, and to recognize that faith is not just a feeling but an action. The conversation culminates in the reminder that God's ultimate plan is fulfilled through Jesus, and our response is to trust and follow Him. Chapters 00:00 Faithfulness of God 02:23 Building a Foundation of Faith 03:39 God's Plan and Our Response 13:35 Understanding God's Plan 27:11 Moses' Leadership and Our Response 40:23 The Ultimate Plan: Jesus

This conversation explores the themes of faith and decision-making through the lens of biblical narratives, particularly focusing on the story of Abraham. It emphasizes the importance of making faith-based decisions rather than reacting to circumstances, highlighting the struggles and lessons learned from Abraham's life. The discussion encourages listeners to reflect on their own decision-making processes and the role of faith in navigating life's challenges. In this conversation, the speaker explores the complexities of making decisions in faith, using the biblical figure Abraham as a case study. The discussion emphasizes the importance of pursuing God, acknowledging the struggle in decision-making, and trusting in God's provision and grace despite our mistakes. The speaker encourages listeners to surrender their plans to God and to seek His guidance in every decision they make, highlighting that God values our pursuit of Him over the outcomes of our decisions.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Faith and Decision Making 12:03 The Story of Abraham: A Hero of Faith 28:30 Navigating Life's Decisions with Faith 35:22 Navigating Difficult Decisions in Faith 36:30 The Struggle of Decision-Making 40:39 The Importance of Pursuit 44:05 Compromise vs. God's Best 46:09 God's Grace in Our Mistakes 52:46 Trusting God's Provision 54:58 Surrendering Our Plans to God

In this conversation, Pastor Jason Polk reflects on the importance of worship, community, and a strong foundation of faith as he prepares for the upcoming year. He emphasizes the need for prayer and biblical teaching, drawing inspiration from the story of Noah to illustrate the significance of faith grounded in God's Word. Jason outlines his vision for 2025, focusing on growth, prayer, and outreach, while encouraging the audience to build a robust foundation of faith. Jason delves into the faith of Noah, presenting it as a timeless model for believers today. He highlights how faith equips individuals to face adversity, providing a steadfast foundation and clear evidence of trust in God. He also speaks to the rewards that come from living a life of faith. Jason encourages listeners to build altars of praise in their lives, recognizing God's faithfulness and the ripple effect it has on those around them. This episode serves as a call to action for listeners to deepen their faith, engage with their communities, and lean into the promises of God, drawing strength from biblical examples and practical application. Chapters 00:00 Setting the Stage for Worship and Faith 03:25 Plans for 2025: A Year of Growth and Prayer 06:25 Community, Worship, and Biblical Teaching 09:42 The Foundation of Faith: Learning from Noah 12:29 Noah's Story: A Recap of Faithfulness 15:44 Building a Foundation of Faith 18:16 The Importance of God's Word in Faith 29:54 Faith in the Face of Adversity 35:55 The Foundation of Faith 43:11 The Evidence of Faith 50:04 The Reward of Faith 56:02 Building Altars of Praise 58:09 Echo Church Podcast Outro.mp3

Tis the Season to Seek - Matthew 2:1-12 - Jason Polk

Tis the Season to Stand in Awe - Luke 2:8-15 - Jason Polk

Different Series - Tom & Jess Franicevich Testimony - Brokenness to Restoration - Relationships/Marriage - Matthew 5-7 - Jason Polk

Different Series - My Pursuits vs His Callings - Luke 9:51-62 - Jason Polk - Tayden Beltran Testimony

Different Series - Addiction to Freedom - Galatians 5:1 - Jason Polk

Part 4 of the Witnesses Series - Rev. Jason Polk

Different Series - Death to Life - Salvation Intro - Ephesians 2:1-10 - Jason Polk

Compelling Love - 2 Corinthians 5:14-20 - Jason Polk

Living in Reverse Series - I Pity the Fool - Ecclesiastes 10:1-20 - Jason Polk

Living in Reverse Series - Accept Death - Enjoy Life - Ecclesiastes 9:1-18 - Jason Polk

Living In Reverse Series - Living for Something Better - Ecclesiastes 7:1-29 - Jason Polk

Living in Reverse Series - Contentment of Life - Ecclesiastes 6:1-12 - Jason Polk

Living in Reverse Series - Seeking After God - Ecclesiastes 5:1-7 - Jason Polk

Living in Reverse Series - We > Me - Ecclesiastes 4:1-16 - Jason Polk

Living in Reverse Series - Your worst day = Your greatest reward - Ecclesiastes 3:16-22 - Jason Polk

Living in Reverse Series - What time is it? - Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 - Jason Polk

Living in Reverse Series - The Good Life = The Giant Snuggie - Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:26 - Jason Polk

Living in Reverse Series - Restoring what was lost in Eden - Ecclesiastes 1:2-11 - Jason Polk

Living in Reverse Series - Remember Me - Ecclesiastes 1:1 12:1 - Jason Polk

Stay Thirsty - Psalm 42 - Jason Polk

Influential Faith - 2 Timothy 1:3-7 - Rachel & Jason Polk

Baptism 101 - Jason Polk

Refrigerator Art - John 11 - Jason Polk

Courageous Catnap - Daniel 6 - Jason Polk

The Anxious Christian - Matthew 6:24-34 - Jason Polk

Inflatable Donut - John 20:10-16 - Jason Polk

Original co-host of the podcast, Jason Polk is a relationship therapist with a sub-specialization in addiction counseling. On this episode, Sheri and Matt ask Jason about the dangers of substituting weed for alcohol, and how porn impacts relationships. To hear more from Jason, check out his podcast: Solving Disconnection and Creating Connected Relationships. If you are or were the partner of an alcoholic, please check out our Alcoholic Intimacy Survey. If you love or loved an alcoholic, and your recovery could benefit from connection with people who understand, please check out our Echoes of Recovery program.

Palm Sunday - Mark 15 - Jason Polk

Change the World - We Are Series - Luke 10 - Jason Polk

Find Community - We Are Series - John 15:12-17 - Jason Polk

Know God - We Are Series - 1 Timothy 3:14-15 - Jason Polk