Podcasts about Lifeway

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley discuss Jen's new book “Made Like Me.”Questions Covered in This Episode:Why did you write this book?Why is Genesis 2 important?Is the emphasis on sameness or difference?What do you lose if you don't have sameness of distinction?What are the immediate implications for generous complementarianism?What do you hope this book will do?Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Genesis 2“Made Like Me” by Jen WilkinDeep Discipleship Program Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kyle Worley is joined by Andrew Wilson to answer the question “Is it okay to want to be happy?”Questions Covered in This Episode:What is happiness?Is it okay to want to be happy?Do some Christians think that it is wrong to be happy?Is God happy?Are happiness and holiness related?Guest Bio:Andrew Wilson (PhD, King's College London) is the teaching pastor at King's Church London and a columnist for Christianity Today. He's the author of several books, including Remaking the World, Incomparable, and God of All Things. Andrew is married to Rachel, and they have three children: Zeke, Anna, and Sam. You can follow him on X.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Psalm 16:11“Happiness: What It Is, Where to Find It, and How to Make It Last Forever” by Andrew Wilson“Weight of Glory” by C.S. LewisCrossway+This episode is brought to you by Crossway, a nonprofit ministry publishing gospel-centered, Bible-based content to honor our Savior and serve his church. Create a free Crossway+ account to receive 30% off all books and Bibles along with other member perks. Learn more at crossway.org/plus. Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are Biblical Truths Becoming Outdated? Sean and Scott analyze recent Lifeway research revealing that a growing number of younger churchgoers view certain biblical teachings as outdated, highlighting the need to help the next generation understand how Scripture promotes human flourishing.The Rise of Polyamory: An article in The Christian Century addresses the rise of consensual non-monogamy, spurring analysis of how alternative relationship structures affect personal fulfillment, emotional stability, and the social frameworks supporting mutual care.AI Safety and China's Worldview: While Western nations debate whether AI poses systemic risks to society, China approaches AI safety around protecting Communist Party control and embedding state ideology into algorithms. Defeating the UK's Assisted Dying Bill: The discussion turns to how Christian advocacy helped defeat proposed assisted dying legislation in the UK, standing up for the vulnerable and affirming the value of human life.Audience Question: Flock License Plate Cameras: Sean and Scott evaluate the ethics of widespread Flock surveillance cameras, balancing the benefits of crime prevention against concerns regarding personal privacy and government overreach.Audience Question: Can we choose evil in heaven? Responding to an audience question, the hosts clarify how free will is maintained in heaven, yet sin would still not be present.==========Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.   Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.   To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.  

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley answer the question “Could Jesus be tempted to sin?”Questions Covered in This Episode:Can Jesus be tempted to sin?What does it mean that Jesus is fully God and fully man?If he was fully man, could he be tempted?Was it a real temptation? Could he have sinned?What is Impeccability?What is temptation? Are there different kinds of temptation?How does the Bible help us live in tension?Correct or validate this statement: “In his humanity he could have sinned; in his deity he never would have.”How should Christians live in light of this truth?Is it a silly question to ask “what would Jesus do?”What about union with Christ?Helpful Definitions:Hypostatic Union: The eternal Son of God takes upon a human nature and now eternally exists as one person with two distinct natures, fully God and fully man,Peccability: Able not to sin (posse non peccare).Non posse non peccare: Not able not to sin.Posse peccare, posse non peccare: Able to sin, able not to sinImpeccability: Unable to sin (Non posse peccare).Immutability: God is unchanging.Nestorianism: Separates the natures of Christ.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Hebrews 4:15, Genesis 1-3, 1 Peter 2:11, James 1:12-18, Hebrews 4:15, Hebrews 12:3-5, 1 Corinthians 10:13, 1 John 2:1, Romans 6:1, John 15The Chalcedonian CreedDeep Discipleship Program Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kyle Worley is joined by Samuel James to discuss his book on teens & technology: “Scroll Less, Live More: 10 Healthy Tech Habits for Teens.”Questions Covered in This Episode:Why do you feel like a book for teens is important to add?Is it too far gone? What meaningful change can happen? How?What is one habit that is explored in the book?Guest Bio:Samuel James is Director of Content Development at Crossway. He is the author of Digital Liturgies, a regular newsletter on Christianity, technology, and culture. He lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with his wife, Emily, and their three children. Resources Mentioned in this Episode:John 17“Scroll Less, Live More: 10 Healthy Tech Habits for Teens” by Samuel James“Digital Liturgies” by Samuel JamesCrossway+This episode is brought to you by Crossway, a nonprofit ministry publishing gospel-centered, Bible-based content to honor our Savior and serve his church. Create a free Crossway+ account to receive 30% off all books and Bibles along with other member perks. Learn more at crossway.org/plus. Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sam and Thom welcome Dr. Ryan Blackwell to Rainer on Leadership to share his hope for Lifeway as the 11th President and CEO. The post My Hope for Lifeway: An Interview with Dr. Ryan Blackwell, President and CEO of Lifeway appeared first on Church Answers.

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley discuss Caroline's book “But What Do I Wear?” and trace the larger themes of clothing throughout Scripture, Questions Covered in This Episode:Why did you write a book about what we wear?Where would you find this in the Bible?What are the tricky parts of this conversation?What if you come to a different conclusion than someone else? How do you give grace?How do you discuss this with your kids?How does this work for men?Why do we as Pastors not require head coverings at our churches?What is a Christian approach to modesty?Guest Bio:Caroline Saunders is a writer, Bible teacher, pastor's wife, and mother of three who believes in taking Jesus seriously and being un-serious about nearly everything else. She's the author of numerous books and studies, including but not limited to: But What Do I Wear?, Good News, Better Than Life, Sound the Alarm, and The Story of Home. Find her writing and resources at WriterCaroline.com, on Instagram @writercaroline, and on TikTok @writercarolinesaunders.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Genesis 1-3, 1 Corinthians 11 Watch Knowing FaithKnowing Faith: Should Women Wear Head Coverings in Church?“But What Do I Wear?” by Caroline Saunders“Dust to Dust” by Jen Wilkin“1 Corinthians” by Leon L. Morris Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kyle Worley is joined by Laura Story to discuss her book, “Stand in Awe: How Reverence Transforms Our Worship and Our Lives.”Questions Covered in This Episode:Is there a right way to worship?What marks that right way to worship?How do you pursue reverent worship that is also warm and hospitable?How can someone worship God in a biblically faithful way?What are the ditches people need to be aware of falling into?Guest Bio:Laura Story is a wife, mother, songwriter, worship leader, author, artist, and Bible teacher. Her songs—which have won Grammys, Billboard Music Awards, and Dove Awards—include “Blessings,” and Chris Tomlin's “Indescribable.” She is the author of several bestselling books and Bible studies including When God Doesn't Fix It and So Long Normal. Laura has a master of theological studies and a doctorate in worship studies, and has served as a worship leader at Perimeter Church in Atlanta since 2005. Her greatest joy is being a wife to Martin and mother to Josie, Ben, Griffin, and Timothy.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Hebrews 4:16, Psalm 95:6Crossway+“Stand in Awe” by Laura Story Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley discuss what the Reformation is, why it happened, and what it led to.Questions Covered in This Episode:What is the Reformation and why did it happen?Was the Reformation good?Does the Reformation hinge on the creation of the printing press? Why?What does it mean to be a Reformed theologian?Was the disintegration of Protestantism an unintended consequence?Was the Reformation good for women?Did it have any unintended consequences?Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Deep Discipleship Program Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On the eve of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Brian reflects on that day's lasting impact and shares the inspiring story of Wells Crowther, "the man in the red bandana," who saved up to 18 lives in the South Tower before losing his own. On the one-year anniversary of Charlie Kirk's assassination, Brian laments how quickly the killing of a young husband and father became politicized and memed rather than mourned as an act of senseless violence. He raises alarm over recent comments from a former Anthropic employee warning AI could threaten humanity within a decade, and calls for greater regulatory attention. Brian digs into a Gospel Coalition piece calling American Christians to reclaim the term "evangelical" from its political connotations and reconnect with the global evangelical movement, shares Paul Washer's reflection after a near-fatal heart attack on regretting not loving more rather than not working more, and discusses new Lifeway research showing church attendance growth concentrated in larger churches at the expense of shrinking smaller ones — a shift researchers attribute more to transfer growth than new conversions. He closes with a story about R.C. Sproul's humble response when pressed to say Billy Graham wouldn't be in heaven, modeling grace across theological disagreement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Smaller church, deeper discipleship - right? Lifeway surveyed 2,130 Protestant churchgoers, and both extremes came out on top. Today, we'll unpack the church-size discipleship paradox, and why being in a group matters more than church size. ============================= Table of Contents: ============================= 0:00 - Intro 1:46 - The Methodology - 8 Signposts of Discipleship 3:38 - 1. Both Extremes Win 7:08 - 2. Small Churches Have Relational Gravity 7:53 - 3. Small Churches Still Have Blind Spots 13:27 - 4. Large Churches Build Discipleship Infrastructure 15:39 - 5. Groups Matter More Than Size 18:14 - The Seafood Boil - Deep Knowing Relationships 23:23 - 6. Different Sizes Need Different Mechanisms 27:37 - 7. Every Church Can Borrow From the Other Extreme 31:19 - 8. Size Is Context, Not Destiny THE 167 NEWSLETTER

Jess and Thom welcome Dr. Ryan Blackwell, President and CEO of Lifeway, to The Church Answers Podcast. He shares the incredible story of First Baptist Church of San Francisco. The post The Incredible Story of First Baptist Church of San Francisco: An Interview with Dr. Ryan Blackwell appeared first on Church Answers.

Kelly sits down with comedian Kelsey Cook, whose brand new Netflix special Happy Hour is out right now and it is absolutely spectacular. Kelsey grew up in the most wonderfully bizarre household: her parents met at a professional foosball tournament, her mom is literally in the Foosball Hall of Fame, and her dad toured Europe and Hawaii as an International Yo-Yo Man. But underneath all that quirk was a painful childhood divorce that gave Kelsey the kind of dark fuel most comedians run on.Then Kelly and Kelsey get into the full-circle moment of how Bob became a mentor early in Kelsey's career, and what his generosity meant to a young comic just trying to get in the door. It is a truly beautiful conversation.And then things get really real. Kelsey opens up about her mom's frontotemporal dementia, a rarer and often misunderstood form of the disease that can strike people in their 60s, and the night a routine emergency surgery during the pandemic changed everything overnight. Two women who have experienced two very different kinds of grief sit down and get incredibly honest about what the long goodbye actually looks like.Go watch Happy Hour on Netflix. It's HILARIOUS. Follow Kelly on Instagram @kellyrizzoFollow Kelsey on Instagram @kelseycookcomedyThank you to Lifeway Foods for sponsoring this episode. To learn more about Lifeway visit. https://lifewaykefir.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if one of the simplest ways to disciple your children was as easy as pressing play?In this episode of our discipleship series, we're looking at another practice that research from Lifeway identified as having a significant impact on helping children develop a lasting faith: listening to Christian music.Steph is joined by Jason Houser, Executive Director of Seeds Kids Worship, a ministry that has spent more than two decades helping families hide God's Word in their hearts through Scripture-based worship music.Together they explore why music has such a powerful influence on our hearts, how worship songs create natural opportunities for conversations about God, and why Christian music isn't just something to listen to on Sunday—it can become a simple rhythm that shapes your family's faith every day.Resources MentionedSeeds Kids WorshipDedicated by Jason HouserCalming Your Anxious ChildThanks-Living: Embracing the Power of Gratitude Every DayHands on BibleChristian Parenting's latest prayer journal: Faith in Action: Prayers from James for the Next Generation(PS You can also listen to Pardon the Mess podcasteach Monday starting September 14th to listen to guided prayer and reflection that follows the journal.)Prefer video? Find this and other episodes on YouTube!The Christian Parenting Podcast is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more information visit www.ChristianParenting.orgOur Sponsors:* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On today's program, Samaritan's Purse declines a $300 million grant from a Trump funding package. The ministry says it is relying on God, not the government. But, it has accepted government money in the past. So what's different this time? Plus, a recent Lifeway study says most pastors feel their churches are welcoming to people with disabilities — but are they? We spoke with advocates and families who say churches still have a ways to go. And, a recently proposed mosque in Texas is drawing protests from residents…and also reviving discussion about how Christians can love their Muslim neighbors without compromising their faith. We'll take a look.  But first, a ministry network is shutting down completely. G3 Ministries announced it’s concluding operations after four leaders of the network admitted to a scheme that’s shaken the evangelical world. The pastors confessed to anonymously mailing packets to elders and deacons at a Texas church. Those packets accused pastor Tom Buck of plagiarizing sermons—dozens of times, over nearly a decade.  The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. We get editorial, database, and other technical support from Christina Darnell, Stephen DuBarry, Rod Pitzer, Heidi Allums, and Casey Sudduth. Writers who contributed to today's program include Jessica Eturralde, Neva Piombino, Kim Roberts, Tony Mator, Stacey Horton, Makella Knowles — and you, Warren. Until next time, may God bless you.

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley discuss the doctrine of hell. Questions Covered in This Episode: Is hell part of the good news? What is hell? What does the Bible have to say about hell? What do you lose if you lose this doctrine? Do you preach hellfire and brimstone sermons? Who does it benefit? For Christians for sanctification or unbelievers for conversion? How is hell part of the good news in sanctification? What is the purpose of preaching hell to unbelievers? What is the traditional doctrine of hell? Is this an essential doctrine? Helpful Definitions: Hell: Forever conscious torment Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Matthew 25, Luke 16:19–31, Genesis 3, Matthew 13:36-43, Matthew 11, Romans 1-2, Romans 9:3, Hebrews “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” by Jonathan Edwards “Cur Deus Homo: Why the God-Man?” by Anselm of Canterbury “The Cross of Christ” by John Stott Deep Discipleship Program Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Brentwood Statement is a collaborative statement from Southern Baptist leaders, led by Lifeway, designed to help guide Christian ministers as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI in ministry and everyday life. Dr. Jason Thacker, director of the ERLC's Research Institute and a senior fellow, served as the primary author of that statement. On today's episode, Dr. RaShan Frost, ERLC's director of research, speaks with Dr. Thacker about how pastors and church leaders can approach artificial intelligence with wisdom and discernment. They also discuss how technology is shaping us and where Christians can exercise wisdom as they approach AI in their lives and ministries. Listen to more episodes of The ERLC Podcast at erlc.com/podcast.

Top headlines for Friday, August 28, 2026SMU cancels a CAIR youth symposium after Texas labeled the group a terrorist organization. Christian doctors in Illinois win temporary protection from an assisted suicide referral mandate. Archaeologists in Turkey uncover a 1,500-year-old Christian amulet. Plus, Evangeline Lilly on leaving Hollywood for faith-driven storytelling.0:11 SMU cancels plan to host 'unapologetically Muslim' CAIR event1:16 Ryan Blackwell now president of Lifeway Christian Resources2:01 Christian doctors win temp. protection from assisted suicide law2:57 The Satanic Temple video depicts 'abortion ritual' at Hobby Lobby3:42 Evangeline Lilly embraces faith project 'Legend of Destruction'4:27 Bethel Church leader Bill Johnson remarries5:13 Ancient Christian amulet found in Turkey: reportSubscribe to this PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle PodcastsOvercastFollow Us on Social Media@ChristianPost on TwitterChristian Post on Facebook@ChristianPostIntl on InstagramSubscribe on YouTubeGet the Edifi AppDownload for iPhoneDownload for AndroidSubscribe to Our NewsletterSubscribe to the Freedom Post, delivered every Monday and ThursdayClick here to get the top headlines delivered to your inbox every morning!Links to the NewsSMU cancels plan to host 'unapologetically Muslim' CAIR event | EducationRyan Blackwell now president of Lifeway Christian Resources | Church & MinistriesChristian doctors win temp. protection from assisted suicide law | U.S.The Satanic Temple video depicts 'abortion ritual' at Hobby Lobby | U.S.Evangeline Lilly embraces faith project 'Legend of Destruction' | EntertainmentBethel Church leader Bill Johnson remarries | Church & MinistriesAncient Christian amulet found in Turkey: report | World

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley discuss how we can approach theologians who had slaves in a way that is helpful and honest. Questions Covered in This Episode: Can we learn from theologians who had slaves? What's the why/who behind this question? How do we approach learning from theologians who had slaves? The Bible doesn't condemn the institution of slavery - does it? How do we make sense of passages like Ephesians 5 or the Letter to Philemon? Can we learn from theologians who endorsed slavery? What makes this conversation so difficult? Is part of it because we are in the Global West? How did slavery function in the Bible? What should we expect from our theological influences? How do we approach them in a way that is helpful and honest? How does Hebrews 11-12 reflect this? How does cancel culture interact with this? Helpful Definitions: Ex opere operato: By the thing acted, operation happens. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Ephesians 5, Philemon, Hebrews 11-12 Deep Discipleship Program “City of God” by Saint Augustine “Confessions” by Saint Augustine “Suma Theologica” by Thomas Aquinas “Religious Affections” by Jonathan Edwards “Institutes of the Christian Religion” by John Calvin “Augustine of Hippo: A Biography” by Peter Brown “Jonathan Edwards: A Life” by George M. Marsden Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In a Christianpost.com article, Michael A. Youssef, pastor of Church of the Apostles, emphasized that a Lifeway study reveals that 53% of Protestant church goers admit that many who know them do not know that they are Christians. Pastor Youssef highlights that “a silent Christian is not a neutral Christian; a silent Christian is a weakened witness. Because truth that is never spoken will eventually become truth that is never seen.” If ... The post A Silent Faith appeared first on Unconventional Business Network.

Ready to Talk: A Christian Parent's Guide to Gender and Sexuality  is a new resource written by Amber Garrett Carroll. Sammie sits down with her on today's episode to chat about the book and how it can practically help parents and the Church dive into these topics with confidence and preparedness, taking a proactive approach to issues we know they'll one day face. We talk about the 3 essential parts to her book - (1) the theological foundation, (2) practical conversation starters, and (3) same sex attraction/gender issues - and how parents are able to prepare for conversations with their kids in today's culture."In Ready to Talk, Amber Carroll prepares readers to do just that: talk. This book equips parents for the inevitable conversations ahead, offering practical recommendations, suggested wording, and developmentally attuned guidance. Carroll provides a wife randge of thoughtful teaching and sample responses to some of the most challenging topics parents worry they will one day face. The material on vocational singleness is especially inqure and accessibly. I highly recommend this book." -Mark Yarhouse, Psy. D., Author of Emerging Sexual Identities and Gender Identity and FaithAmber graduated from Union University in 2008 with a degree in English Literature and Secondary Education. After college, she spent six years teaching middle and high school in the public school system, followed by several years at home raising babies while freelancing as an editor for publishers including Lifeway.In 2019, she joined Equip, where she now serves as Vice President. Her primary focus is equipping Christian parents with the clarity, confidence, and courage they need to begin age-appropriate conversations with their kids about God-honoring sex, sexuality, gender. Her passion for helping parents talk with their kids about sex, sexuality, and gender in ways that build trust, deepen faith, and point them toward Jesus, is something we all can learn from. This work matters deeply to her as she has quite the personal connection to it that you'll hear about through our conversation. This book is for you if you're…– a Christian parent of children ages 2–12 and you realize conversations about sex, relationships, and gender are conversations you can't afford to avoid– a grandparent, godparent, foster parent, aunt, or uncle– a children's ministry leader, Sunday School teacher, or kids' volunteer– anyone who cares about equipping kids to understand God's design for sexuality and genderHere are some things we mentioned in this episode:Amber's Free Resource - Parent PackAmber's Instagram and Equip's FacebookAmber's Wesbite Book Amber to Speak Amber's Email: amber@equipyourcommunity.org Remember - Amber is assisting churches in hosting FREE events this year regarding these topics. Reach out to her with questions! Be sure to stay up to date with Abundant Life: You Were Made for More by visiting our blog - and if you're loving the podcast, send guest recommendations to us or leave us a star-rating/review on your favorite listening platform to spread the word about the you were made for more message.You Were Made for More Social Media: FacebookInstagram

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley discuss what roles men & women can have in the local church and why it matters. Questions Covered in This Episode: Why are we talking about this? What/who is a pastor? What is preaching? What is the qualification for the office of pastor? Who can preach to the assembled congregation? Who can make disciples in the life of the local church? What about 1 Timothy 2:12? What about Phoebe, Priscilla, and Aquila? What about Deacons (1 Timothy 3:11)? Helpful Definitions: Presbuteros (πρεσβύτερος): Elder/pastor Gynaikos (γυναικός): Wife/woman Resources Mentioned in this Episode: 1 Timothy 2-3, Romans 16:3 Happy Complementarians SBC Truth & Unity Amendment BFM 2000 Deep Discipleship Program Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us Fan MailPrayer isn't brain surgery. But that doesn't make it easy. Even those we might consider to be professionals struggle with it. The good news is that you are probably praying more than you realize. Those who preach God's word pass through five "gates" of prayer while formulating the sermon. #prayer, #praying, #preaching, #sermon prepDr. John Koessler is an award-winning writer and retired faculty emeritus of Moody Bible Institute. John writes the Praying the Word column for the Lifeway publication Mature Living and is the author of 16 books. His latest book, On Things Above: The Earthly Importance of Heavenly Reality, is available from Amazon.  You can learn more about John at https://www.johnkoessler.com. 

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley have a thought-level discussion on what Christians should think of public schools requiring bible reading. Questions Covered in This Episode: What should Christians think of public schools requiring Bible reading? Are public schools a place where religious education happens or should happen? What is the role of education? Is education a human right? Whose is the primary responsibility to educate? What is the good of public school? How can someone be involved in public school? Why is the Bible part of the curriculum in Texas schools now? Should public schools require Bible reading, and why? Should other religious texts be included in required reading? What is a potential problem with the Bible being taught in public school? What text are they including? What are they missing? How is this the same or different than the posting of the Ten Commandments? Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Romans 5, 1 Corinthians Deep Discipleship Program “Forming Souls in an AI Future” by Ben Sasse “Should the ten Commandments be Posted Publicly Part 1” “Should the ten Commandments be Posted Publicly Part 2” Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Season 17 of the Knowing Faith podcast begins on August 13th! In this episode, Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley give you a preview of what is to come in Season 17. Questions Covered in This Episode: What topics are we covering in Season 17? How is the question episode format going? How can I submit a question for this season? How can I listen to episodes early? What episode are you most looking forward to this season? Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Apple Podcast Review Training the Church Patreon Amazon affiliate links are used where appropriate. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Knowing Faith. Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week Kelly is going solo, and she is getting real about the relationship rules she wishes someone had handed her back in her 20s and 30s. The kind of wisdom you can only earn the hard way, through mistakes, growth, and a whole lot of lived experience.Kelly covers the big ones: why cheating isn't just wrong but genuinely not worth the anxiety and guilt it costs you, the trap of getting too drunk and picking fights, the immature habit of starting conflict on purpose just to test how much someone loves you (she'll be the first to admit she did this), why you should never publicly call out or embarrass your partner no matter what, and the game-changing power of seeking to understand where your partner is actually coming from before you react. She also gets into why you can never love someone enough to change them, the importance of putting your partner's feelings first in a healthy relationship, and one of her most important lessons: never shrink yourself to make someone else comfortable.These are the rules Kelly learned the hard way. And she wouldn't trade the lessons, but she hopes you can learn a few of them a little easier.Also, Kelly has an exciting announcement: she is hosting a five-star VIP trip to Chicago September 10 through 14, curated with Byline Travel. Think the Peninsula Hotel, exclusive restaurant experiences, chef and cocktail demos, and so much more. Spots are limited, so check it out at byline.travel/experience/kellyThis episode is sponsored by Lifeway Foods. For more info go to lifewaykefir.com. Thank you Lifeway for being such an incredible partner!Follow Kelly on Instagram @KellyRizzo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kyle Worley is joined by Shane Pruitt and Shelly Melia to discuss their book “Reaching Generation Alpha: A Ministry Guide for Discipling the Church Beyond the Screen.” Questions Covered in This Episode: Why Gen Alpha and why now? Who is Gen Alpha? How do we reach them with the gospel? What are some misunderstandings of Gen Alpha? Does the church strategically withdraw or strategically engage them? What is the value of peer-to-peer and peer-to-adult relationships for Gen Alpha? Have we overestimated the value of peer-to-peer relationships? What is one way a family or the church can meaningfully engage in discipleship for Gen Alpha? Guest Bio: Shane Pruitt is the National Next Gen Director for the North American Mission Board. He and his wife, Kasi, reside in Rockwall, Texas, with their six children: Raygen, Harper, Titus, Morris, Elliot, and Glory. Shane has been in ministry for more than twenty years as a denominational leader, church planter, lead pastor, and student pastor. He holds a bachelor's degree in biblical studies, a master's degree in history, and a Ph.D. in clinical Christian counseling. Shane is also a traveling communicator, evangelist, and Bible teacher. Shelly Melia serves as Associate Dean and Program Director for the Master of Arts in Children's Ministry and the Master of Arts in Family Ministry in the Graduate School of Ministry at Dallas Baptist University. She speaks throughout the nation at children's and family ministry conferences. She is a repeat speaker at Lifeway's ETCH, Children's Pastor Conference, Heart of the Child, Early Childhood Christian Network, the Child Discipleship Forum, and D-6 Family Ministry conferences. She has been featured on podcasts with Lifeway and D-6 and been a speaker for Baptist conventions in Oklahoma, South Carolina, Louisiana, Georgia, Missouri, and Texas. She is a board member of the Disciple Leaders Network, served as the President of the Board for the Early Childhood Christian Network, and is a consultant for Single Parent Ministries. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: “Reaching Generation Alpha” by Shane Pruitt and Shelly Melia Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if worship became more than just the singing portion of your kids ministry?In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana sits down with Kirk Kirkland, Director of Worship at Lifeway, to explore how churches can help kids understand that worship is far more than music—it's a lifelong response to who God is.Kirk shares practical ways to create meaningful worship experiences for children by incorporating Scripture, prayer, and community alongside music. He also offers wisdom on choosing biblically sound songs, leading kids with intention, and helping them understand why they worship—not just how.This week, take a fresh look at your worship time. Ask yourself, "What are we teaching kids about worship beyond the music?" Look for one intentional way to incorporate Scripture, prayer, or a moment of reflection that helps children understand worship as a response to God's character and His love.Because when we teach kids why we worship, we're equipping them with a foundation that can shape their relationship with God for years to come.SHOW LINKS: Check out Lifeway Kids CurriculumConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!Join us at ETCH 2026

Some conversations you plan for a long time because you know they're going to matter. This is one of them.Kelly sits down with one of her closest and dearest friends, Melissa Mickelson, for a raw, honest, and deeply moving conversation about widowhood. Kelly lost her husband Bob four and a half years ago. Melissa lost her husband Dean nine months ago. And as Melissa puts it, she watched Kelly go through it first and had no idea she'd one day be living the same unimaginable reality.Together they talk through what it actually feels like to navigate grief from the inside, including the "10 seconds at a time" advice Kelly gave Melissa on that very first night that has stuck with her ever since. They get into what helps and what doesn't when someone you love is grieving (hint: you don't need to fix it, you just need to witness it), why you should always bring up the person who died, how to text a grieving friend without making it worse, what it's like to go back to work when your whole world has changed, how grief literally rewires your brain, and why both of them refuse to let this break them.Melissa also shares how her TikTok account has become a space for sharing grief insights, and the beautiful mantra from her wedding vows that now guides her every single day: choose your heart.This one is for anyone who has loved and lost, and for anyone who wants to show up better for someone who has.This episode is sponsored by Lifeway Foods. For more info go to lifewaykefir.com. Thank you Lifeway for being such an incredible partner!Follow Kelly on Instagram @KellyRizzo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kyle Worley is joined by Lauren & Tyler to discuss the story of “The Pilgrim's Progress.” Questions Covered in This Episode: What is Lithos? What is Pilgrims' Progress? Why should everyone read it? What is it an allegory for? Why did the book's popularity fade?  Why is there a renewed interest? Why would you tell a family that this story is worth their time? What resources would you recommend are necessities for family discipleship? Guest Bios: Tyler Van Halteren founded Lithos Kids in 2020 after seeing the impact short bedtime stories had on his son. He is the author of the Little Pilgrim series as well as The Kingdom of God Bible Storybook. Canadian by birth, Tyler previously served as a pastor in rural Ontario and later as a Bible professor in Cambodia. His growing young family now resides in Canada. Tyler holds a M.Div. from The Master's Seminary. Lauren Ducommun and her family served as missionaries in Indonesia before returning to Canada. She joined the team in 2020 and currently oversees our US warehouse, social media content, marketing, editing, and proofreading. She also modernized The Pilgrim's Progress: Legacy Edition and formatted Paradise Lost: Legacy Edition! Her family now resides near Fort Worth, Texas, where she works from home with her two kids, ages nine and thirteen. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Lithos “The Pilgrim's Progress” by John Bunyan “Little Pilgrim's Big Journey” by Tyler Van Halteren Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kelly has been wanting to have this conversation for a long time, and she's so glad she finally did. Her guest is Lindzi Scharf, a writer, entrepreneur, and mother who lost her daughter Evan at just three and a half years old to an incredibly rare mitochondrial disease. Evan was only the 27th child in the world known to have her specific condition.What makes this conversation so special is the way Lindzi talks about Evan. It is not dark or heavy. It is full of joy, full of love, and full of the kind of hard-earned wisdom that only comes from living through something this profound. Kelly admits she was nervous to have a child loss parent on the podcast, scared of saying the wrong thing. But Lindzi has a way of making you feel like you can ask anything, and that saying the wrong thing is always better than saying nothing at all.They talk about what it was like to know from early on that time with Evan was limited, how that shaped the way Lindzi chose to live every single day, and what it means to actively choose joy in the face of the unimaginable. They also get into what people can do to support a grieving parent, how to talk about someone who is gone, and the complicated question of past versus present tense. Plus, there is a beautiful connection involving Evan's favorite song that will give you chills.This episode comes out right around what would have been Evan's birthday. Happy birthday, Evan.Follow Kelly on Instagram @KellyRizzo and keep the conversation going there.You can find Linzi on instagram at @lindzischarfThank you to Lifeway Foods for sponsoring this episode. For more info about Lifeway please visit www.lifewaykefir.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lifeway, a Christian publishing organization, performs a research study called Living Unashamed. In their recent study, they asked Protestant churchgoers whether they agreed with the statement, “Many people who know me are not aware I am a Christian.”  In 2013, 14% of polled churchgoers strongly agreed that others wouldn't know them as Christians. Unfortunately, that number has now dramatically increased to 30%.   Protestant Churchgoers have more than doubled in hiding ... The post Living Unashamed appeared first on Unconventional Business Network.

Kyle Worley discusses the importance of deep discipleship and how you can become a deep disciple. Questions Covered in This Episode: What is the discipleship crisis facing the church? What is the goal of Christian living? How does someone go deep in their discipleship? What is the Deep Discipleship Program? How do I access the program? Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Deep Discipleship Program Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The greatest gift we can give kids isn't a great program—it's a clear picture of Jesus.In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Jana sits down with Aaron Wilson, team leader for The Gospel Project at Lifeway, to talk about what it truly means to keep the gospel at the center of children's ministry.Aaron unpacks what the gospel is, why it's more than just the message of salvation, and how every Bible story ultimately points to Jesus. He shares practical ways to consistently teach the gospel in age-appropriate ways and challenges ministry leaders to evaluate whether Jesus is truly at the center of everything they do.The conversation also takes a personal turn as Aaron shares his calling story and offers encouragement to leaders who may be tempted to find their identity in ministry success rather than in Christ.Whether you're teaching preschoolers, leading elementary kids, or equipping volunteers, this episode is a timely reminder that when Jesus is the focus, everything else finds its proper place. When the gospel becomes the foundation—not just a lesson we teach, but the lens through which we lead—we don't just create better ministry. We help kids discover the life-changing hope of Jesus.SHOW LINKS: The Gospel Project Check out Lifeway Kids CurriculumConnect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!Join us at ETCH 2026

Everyone is called to do SOMETHING for the Lord. Do you know what you are called to do? What happens if you refuse to answer when God is Calling You?  As my friend Evangelist Mark says, Don't put God on hold! Someone I know has a very unique calling that I talk about in this episode.  Link to Two Free Spiritual Gifts Tests:  https://giftstest.com/ Lifeway:  https://www.lifeway.com/en/articles/women-leadership-spiritual-gifts-growth-service  

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley talk about Jen's new book about aging, “Dust to Dust.” Questions Covered in This Episode: Why did you write this book? What does the Bible have to say about aging? Did you learn anything new? What is a false story? How do we view our bodies? What is the purpose of our bodies? What are two ditches people can tend to fall into when they think about their bodies? Is there a connection between age and wisdom? What has your personal experience been in “personal time” and caregiving? Is all of life caregiving? How do we view caregiving differently with infants than with the elderly? Has the Lord left us to guess how to age? Resources Mentioned in this Episode: James 1 “Dust to Dust” by Jen Wilkin Amazon affiliate links are used where appropriate. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, thank you for supporting Knowing Faith. Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is fun a distraction from real ministry — or the doorway into it? Hannah sits down with Kayla Fowler (Team Lead for Hyfi, Lifeway's next-gen curriculum) to unpack why fun isn't optional in kids' ministry — it's foundational. If you've ever wondered whether the games and goofiness "count" as real ministry, this conversation will change how you see it.Visit KidsGoBible.com to learn more about the GO! Bible and to get your free curriculum resources. For a free trial of Hyfi by Lifeway, visit myhyfi.com.

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley have a conversation about the key doctrinal differences between Mormons and Christians. Questions Covered in This Episode: Are Mormons Christians? What was your first reaction when the Pentagon's revision to its list of Christian religions came out? What is the ethical overlap between Christians and Mormons? What are the fundamentals of Christian Orthodoxy on the Doctrine of God that Mormons disagree with? Did the early Mormons believe they were Christians? What changed since then? What fuels the outreach of Mormons? How is it that Mormons say the same thing as Christians (Jesus Christ, grace, salvation, etc.)? Do they mean the same thing? What are some of the major differences in doctrine between Christians and Mormons? Why is there an overlap at all? Should you share the gospel with your Mormon neighbors? Helpful Definitions: Nihilism: There is no purpose or meaning, intrinsic or extrinsic to the world around us. Nihilism extensionism (expressive individualism): There is no extrinsic meaning to the world or any true, authentic intrinsic meaning, but I am going to create something. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Deep Discipleship Program Nicene Creed Bible Answer Man, Hank Hanegraaff Knowing Faith: Do Jews and Christians Worship the Same God? Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

JT English and Kyle Worley are joined by Seth Troutt to discuss his book, “Authentic Masculinity.” Questions Covered in This Episode: What is real masculinity? How is the church uniquely situated to have this conversation? How would you talk to someone who has concerns about toxic masculinity? How can men pursue authentic masculinity? How can women encourage authentic masculinity? Guest Bio: Seth Troutt is the Teaching Pastor at Ironwood Church in the Phoenix metro area. With a doctorate focused on digital technology, Generation Z, and gender identity, Seth provides biblical guidance both complex cultural issues and practical personal challenges. His writing explores the intersections of theology, technology, and culture. Seth has been married to Taylor since 2013 and they live in Gilbert, Arizona. Together, Seth and Taylor have two children, Jay and Olivia. Their favorite brands are Traeger, Kirkland, Animal Pak, Apple, and CrossFit. Seth is an alumnus of Arizona State University, Phoenix Seminary, and Covenant Seminary. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Genesis 1-3, Ephesians 2:10 “Authentic Masculinity” by Seth Troutt Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Christina Hello, everyone, I'm Christina Darnell, the managing editor of MinistryWatch. Welcome to the MinistryWatch podcast. In today's extra episode, I talk with Warren Smith about some news items that are slightly (even significantly) outside of our normal charity and philanthropy “beat.” So, Warren, what's up first? Warren The Episcopal Church Center in Midtown Manhattan, commonly referred to as “815” because of its street address, 815 Second Ave., is for sale.For critics of the church, the building became a symbol of the bureaucracy and isolation of the denomination's leadership. Christina Its sale now represents the continued decline of the denomination. Warren “We've done a detailed analysis about the best use of the building, with consultants and architects,” Chief Financial Officer Chris Lacovara said in a church news release. “We occupy a fraction of the Church Center space now, and the conclusion is that we don't need to own and occupy a building in midtown Manhattan.” Christina The building is 12 stories high and has about 146,000 square feet of office space. Warren In 1965, the Episcopal Church had about 3.4 million people. Today, membership is officially listed at about 1.5 million, but less than a half-million attend Episcopal Churches on any given Sunday. Christina Next up, new data from Lifeway, but you have some concerns. Warren I do. I am a big data guy, but recent research from Lifeway does not pass my sniff test. Lifeway says that Gen Z adults who are regular churchgoers attend church at greater rates than other age cohorts. Christina So…regular church attend church regularly? Seems like you wouldn't need a survey to come to that conclusion. Warren Exactly. The premise of the survey is strange. It is like saying, “In Texas, there are a high percentage of Texans.” Secondly, the Gen Z result is a serious outlier. “While the median churchgoer in each generation attends four worship services each month, the average Gen Z churchgoer attends a worship service at their church 6.2 times a month,” a statement from Lifeway said. This compares with “4.8 times for millennials, 5.1 for Gen X and 4.5 for baby boomers and older. This implies that while the typical Gen Z churchgoer attends at a similar frequency to other generations, there is a portion of young adults who attend at much higher rates.” Christina But other data we've reported on suggest that Gen Z is in fact not more religious. So what's going on here? Warren The evidence increasingly suggests not a broad-based Gen Z revival, but a “committed remnant” phenomenon—fewer young adults in church, but those who are there are often attending with greater frequency and intentionality than previous generations of young adults. Christina Moving on…. Alliance of Responsible Citizenship (ARC) is meeting in London this week. Warren ARC claims to be an international movement of conservative thinkers, political leaders, business executives, academics, journalists, and religious leaders that seeks to renew the cultural, moral, and institutional foundations of Western civilization. Christina Founded in 2023 by figures including Jordan Peterson and Philippa Stroud, ARC describes its mission as helping to “re-lay the foundations of our civilization” by promoting responsibility, free institutions, strong families, economic opportunity, and a renewed sense of cultural confidence. Warren About 4,000 are gathered, from more than 85 countries. Many observers have dubbed it the “Conservative Davos” or the “anti-woke Davos.” Among this year’s speakers are Boris Johnson, Jordan Peterson, Arthur Brooks, Andy Crouch, Eric Metaxas, and Ross Douthat. Christina For Christians, ARC is particularly notable because Christian faith is not merely a side topic but a recurring theme. Warren Evangelical, Catholic, and Orthodox leaders are prominent participants, reflecting ARC’s belief that cultural renewal requires moral and spiritual renewal as well. Rod Dreher has been posting all week from London, and some of his posts have been pretty humorous. A nerd's view from the cool kids' table, you might say. You can find one of those posts here. Christina As we have reported here at MinistryWatch, Bethany Christian Services, one of the nation's largest adoption and foster care organizations, has reaffirmed its commitment to a biblical sexual ethic. Warren This reaffirmation requires staff, board members and foster and adoptive families to “personally agree and adhere to” a belief statement that defines marriage as “a covenant between one man and one woman.” Christina Katy Faust, a conservative activist who believes same-sex couples should not be parents, celebrated the change. On X, Faust said it was evidence that the “vibe shift” is having a “measurable impact.” Warren It is too early for me to declare a “vibe shift,” but I hope she is right. In any case, it is likely not to impact adoption and foster care efforts much, since the number of LGBTQ+ folk who adopt children are small. According to the Williams Institute, about 35,000 same-sex couples are raising adopted children. That is certainly significant, but the significance diminishes when you consider that about 1.8 million children in the U.S., between 2 and 3 percent of all children, are living with adoptive parents. Supporting Faust's claim of a “vibe shift” is a recent Gallup survey suggesting that 65 percent of Americans still favor legal same-sex marriage, but that's six percentage points fewer than its peak in 2022-2023. Similarly, the percentage of Americans who view gay or lesbian relations and gender transitions as morally acceptable have fallen since the early 2020s. Christina Finally, we have some good news here at MinistryWatch. Warren I am pleased to let you know that MinistryWatch has received a grant from the Fund for Investigative Journalism to help us with investigative reporting in the coming year. Christina The FIJ is a nonprofit organization founded in 1969 that supports in-depth, public-interest investigative reporting by providing grants, editorial guidance, and legal assistance to journalists. Warren Its mission is to help reporters pursue stories that expose corruption, wrongdoing, abuses of power, and other issues of significant public concern that might otherwise go uncovered. Over its history, FIJ has awarded thousands of grants to freelance and staff journalists, helping launch investigations that have appeared in major outlets such as The New York Times, ProPublica, NPR, Frontline, The Washington Post, and many regional news organizations. The organization is widely regarded as one of the leading philanthropic supporters of investigative journalism in the United States. Christina Any final thoughts before we go? Warren If you have not discovered our YouTube channel, check it out here. We now have nearly 200 videos there, and they have attracted tens of thousands of views. Subscribe, like, and share to spread the word about our work. I am in Albuquerque next month. If you live in the Land of Enchantment, one of my favorite states, reach out to me. I would love to share a meal or a cup of coffee with you. My email is wsmith@ministrywatch.com. We'd love to have your financial support as we approach our fiscal year end. Just go to www.ministrywatch.com/donate Christina The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. I'm Christina Darnell, along with Warren Smith. Until next time, may God bless you.

Kyle Worley discusses the discipleship problem in the church and how you can help fix it. Questions Covered in This Episode: What alarm is going off in the church? Could every ministry leader at your church give you the same definition of a disciple? Resources Mentioned in this Episode: John 13:17 Training the Church Ministry Cohort Deep Discipleship Program Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You can run an excellent kids ministry and still aim at the wrong target. That sounds harsh, but it is also freeing because it means you do not need more activity, you need clearer purpose. In the first episode of our Summer Dreamin' series, Jana Magruder sits down with Chuck Peters, LifeWay's Next Gen director and host of the ETCH NextGen Ministry Podcast, to talk about goal setting that moves beyond busywork and toward real spiritual growth for kids and families.  Chuck tells the true Olympic story of Matt Emmons, who hit a perfect bullseye yet lost because he shot the wrong target. It is the perfect picture of ministry life: calendars fill up, events go well, volunteers hustle, and we still wonder why lasting discipleship feels elusive. We unpack how to define success before you plan, how to resist comparison with the church next door, and how to step off the treadmill long enough to see the bigger picture.  From there, we get practical with two powerful goal-setting lenses. First, use the right lens: ministry goals are not “my goals,” they are goals for the church we serve, aligned with the overall mission, vision, and values. Second, use a long lens: begin with the end in mind and plan for kids to become godly adults, not just better-behaved children. We also talk tangible targets that support that long game, like building a culture of Bible reading and ensuring every child is known by name.If you are ready to move from activity to impact, press play, then share this with a teammate and subscribe so you do not miss part two!Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!Join us at ETCH 2026

Welcome to The Weekly, produced by TAB Media Group, which publishes The Alabama Baptist and The Baptist Paper. Each episode features news headlines read by TAB Media Group staff and volunteers. New episodes are released weekly on Wednesday mornings. Articles featured in this episode: Thank you University of Mobile for supporting our ministry! Mohler adamant proposed amendment not to address anything beyond pastoral office, preaching New SBC officers elected during annual meeting in Orlando Messengers approve all 12 recommendations from Exec Comm in Orlando IMB 'grateful' to receive 51% of CP budget allocation in upcoming fiscal year Crossover evangelism efforts yield over 1,000 decisions for Christ Fully pursuing Christ 'hard … but that's the point,' Ritchie shares with associational leaders New SBC resource helps churches strengthen abuse prevention efforts Chaplaincy, Southern Baptists' care for one another celebrated at NAMB luncheon Carolyn Fountain named 25th president of national WMU GuideStone helps ministers finish well with superior service and personal response Lifeway is built on the foundation of the God's Word, new president says during report in Orlando ERLC introduces new president during report to messengers in Orlando SBCAL names Alabama's Chris Crain AMS of the Year Louisiana Baptists take first place in national Pinewood Derby races Check out our Kids Edition! Visit TAB Media HERE Subscribe on iTunes HERE

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley to answer questions submitted by their Patreon supporters!  Questions Covered in This Episode: Do you have any recommendations for books on Israel and the church? What have you been studying recently? How has that encouraged you? Do you have resources on the theology/doctrine of life? When thinking of Old Testament Christophanies, is Jesus appearing as a post-resurrection ascended Christ? What is the definition of fellowship? How do you balance fellowship and education spaces? What are your thoughts on paying singers who are not believers to be in the church choir? How do you communicate the difference between performance and worship? Are you a fan of El Clásico? In addition to the deep discipleship program, what Bible studies would you recommend for a student small group? As a female leader, how do you persevere through others' comments about your leadership? Is there a resource that explains the gathering of believers and the Lord's Supper being connected? Revelation discusses the foundation of the 12 apostles. How does Paul become an apostle if he is not part of the 12? How transparent should a church be with its finances? What is the presence of God different in Genesis 3-11? Does Training the Church have other podcasts coming in the future? What words of wisdom would you give to pastors in addressing cultural moments on a Sunday (i.e., Charlie Kurk)? What is the church's position on the Israel-Palestine conflict? Should we think of God as Father before Creator? Do you prefer holding multiple services vs. one large service when a church is growing? How do you keep a spirit of unity with multiple services? How do you navigate serving in church while being fed yourself? What is the balance between a “go and tell” vs. a “come and see” church? Is it biblically appropriate for someone who is not a pastor to officiate a Christian wedding? Our church offers private communion but also teaches strongly against an individual Christian life. How do I reconcile those two practices? When is the Knowing Faith Patreon exclusive Israel trip? Helpful Definitions:  Fellowship: Koinónia (κοινωνία) Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kyle Worley is joined by Tasha Calvert to have a conversation about her book “Set Apart for More: The Transformative Power of Living Your Whole Life for a Holy God.” Questions Covered in This Episode: What does it mean to be set apart? Where does it come from, and what does it mean?  Where can we go in the bible to learn about holiness? How would you define holiness? Is holiness something I am or something I practice? How does this play out in the life of a believer? Why did you apply holiness to hot topics in your book? Why is holiness worth pursuing? Helpful Definitions: Holiness: A sacred otherness that originates from God. Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley answer questions submitted by listeners! Questions Covered in This Episode: Is it biblical for women to speak at a conference where men are in attendance? How much sarcasm is too much sarcasm? 1 Timothy 6:13, many commentaries say the Father is the one being referred to. Is this a correct understanding? What about Hebrews 1 and John 1? When you are on a church staff, do you consider Sunday your sabbath? What would you like for one of your co-hosts to write about next? What is a good starting point to think biblically as men and women? Are there resources for the Deep Discipleship curriculum leaders? Will there be a rapture? Advice, encouragement, and caution for those serving in student ministry? Justify a law publicly posting the Ten Commandments? Resources Mentioned in this Episode: 1 Timothy 6:13, Hebrews 1, John 1, Colossians 1, Genesis 1:26, Genesis 2 Training the Church Ministry Cohort Deep Discipleship Curriculum “You Are a Theologian” by Jen Wilkin and JT English “Remember and Rehearse” by JT English “Formed for Fellowship” by Kyle Worley “Three Views on the Rapture” by Gleason L. Archer Jr. Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley discuss some of the differences in belief contemporary Jews and Christians hold. Questions Covered in This Episode: Do Jews and Christians worship the same God? Do modern-day Jews worship the God of the Old Testament? What do orthodox Jews deny that Christians believe? What about The Shema? What is the difference in Triune theology? What about Christians' relationship with Israel? Are Jews members of the family of Christ? What about the Judeo-Christian ethic? Is a Jewish person closer to coming to faith than a Muslim or a Hindu? What is the difference between being in Adam and being in Christ? Do Jews believe the Gospel? What tend to be the gut reactions to this question? Helpful Definitions: Echad (אֶחָד): Unity. Yachid (יָחִיד): Singular one, numerical. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Romans 5, 10-11, Romans 10:15 Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley discuss whether Christians should keep Old Testament dietary laws. Questions Covered in This Episode: Do Christians have to keep Old Testament dietary laws? What were/are some of the Old Testament dietary laws? What's behind these laws? What's their purpose? What does the New Testament say? Should Christians keep the Old Testament dietary laws? What about Jesus saying the elements of communion are his body and blood to his disciples? Were the Old Testament laws accomplishing the same things that Jesus accomplished on the cross? What do we think? Do Christians have to keep Old Testament dietary laws? What is wise? What group today is the most food-conscious? Why are Christians drawn to gimmicky food laws (the Daniel Diet)? What do you say to someone who wants to keep the Old Testament dietary laws? What if someone says, Christians are inconsistent because they want to remind us of Old Testament laws of sexuality but ignore the dietary laws? Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Daniel 1, Acts, Matthew 13:47-50, Matthew 15:11, Leviticus 16, Hebrews 10, Genesis 22, Proverbs 31, Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8 Knowing Faith: A Blanket Full of Bacon Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley discuss sin in the Christian life and its effects on our relationship with Christ. Questions Covered in This Episode: If I keep committing the same sin, am I still a Christian?  What is sin? What is a Christian? Since Christians are able to not sin, does that mean Christians won't sin? What is the biblical tension here? How does sin affect our union or communion with Christ? If someone comes to you concerned about another individual's sin and their salvation, what would you say? How often do I have that conversation with the same person who is in ongoing, unrepentant sin? How do you respond to a believer who is struggling with sin and asking what they should do? Helpful Definitions: Sin: Disobedience to God and His law. Total Depravity: Not able to not sin. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Romans 5, Romans 3, Genesis 3, Exodus, John 15, Hebrews 10:14, 1 John 1:5-2:1, Hebrews 3:13 TrainingtheChurch.com/support “Remember and Rehearse” by JT English “Ten Words to Live By” by Jen Wilkin “Home with God”  by Kyle Worley Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley discuss how Christians can use A.I. wisely and the concerns to watch out for. Questions Covered in This Episode: Is it wrong to use A.I.? How does sin affect work? If a tool existed that eliminated the need to work, would it be a tool a Christian should use? How should we think about labor-saving tools? Are any of us using A.I. in any way? If so, how? What Christian/ethical concerns exist around the use of A.I.? What about the environmental impact? What are some of the obvious icebergs ahead of us? Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Genesis 3, Genesis 4:22, Genesis 11:1–9, Judges 4:21 Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.