POPULARITY
Why do some churches celebrate Communion every week while others do it much less frequently? In this edition of Ask the Church, we explore how our church's understanding of the Eucharist shapes how often it is celebrated. The discussion centers on the idea of the “means of grace”—the ways God has promised to give His grace through the proclamation of Scripture and the celebration of the sacraments. Understanding the Lord's Supper in this way helps explain why many churches (including ours!) celebrate it more regularly.
Rev. Steven Breedlove // Exodus 17:1-7; Psalm 95; John 4:5-42
What is apostolic succession, and why does it matter? In this edition of Ask the Church, we explore how the Early Church understood the passing on of apostolic authority and why succession is about preserving the faith, not institutional prestige. Apostolic succession connects the Church today to the Apostles by safeguarding both doctrine and sacramental life. It is ultimately about faithfulness to Christ and the gospel entrusted to His Church.
In this second lesson, we begin practicing the Early Church's fourfold approach to reading Scripture. Using Proverbs 31 as an example, we explore how the passage functions within the Hebrew Scriptures before considering its Christological, moral, and eschatological dimensions. Reading the text in this way reveals a depth that is often missed when the passage is treated as a simple set of instructions. The session seeks to model how Scripture, read within the life of the Church, continually leads us back to Christ.⛪ Church of the Incarnation is an Anglican (ACNA) parish in western Henrico, Virginia, committed to:
The Rev. Charles Alex Riffee // Psalm 33:12-21; Genesis 12:1-9; John 3:1-16
What does it mean to “mortify” sin? In this edition of Ask the Church, we explore the biblical command to “put to death” the deeds of the flesh and explain how mortification differs from mere suppression. Drawing on Romans 8 and Colossians 3, we look at how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to actively fight sin as part of sanctification. Far from leading to despair, mortifying sin leads to freedom and new life in Christ.
Rev. Steven Breedlove // Genesis 2:4-9, 15-17, 25; 3:1-7; Psalm 51; Matthew 4:1-11
Why do many Anglican Christians place ashes on the forehead on Ash Wednesday? This edition of Ask the Church explores the biblical symbolism of ashes as a sign of repentance and mortality, alongside the Church's historic practice of beginning Lent in humility. We discuss how the words “Remember that you are dust” orient us toward both repentance and hope in Christ. Listen to learn the meaning behind this solemn and powerful Christian tradition.
The Rev. Steven Breedlove // Joel 2:1-2, 12-17; Psalm 103; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21; Psalm 51
The Rev. Jim Pittman // Exodus 24:12-18; Psalm 99; Philippians 3:7-14; Matthew 17:1-9
In this opening session of a new series, we consider how the Early Church read the Scriptures and why that way of reading still matters. Beginning with foundational assumptions—practice over theory, reading within the Church, and seeking communion with God Himself rather than mere head knowledge—the lesson introduces the fourfold pattern often called the quadriga. These four “horses” of interpretation (historical, Christological, moral, and eschatological) offer a framework for reading Scripture in a way that ultimately points us towards a fuller vision of Christ.⛪ Church of the Incarnation is an Anglican (ACNA) parish in western Henrico, Virginia, committed to:
What is the Book of Common Prayer, and why is it central to Anglican worship? This edition of Ask the Church traces its origins to the English Reformation, when Thomas Cranmer translated and revised the Church's liturgy into English so the people could fully participate. It explains how the Prayer Book preserves inherited Christian worship while rooting it deeply in Scripture. Listen to learn how praying in common shapes what we believe and how we live.
The Rev. Justin Hendrix // 2 Kings 22:8-20; Psalm 27; 1 Corinthians 2; Matthew 5:13-20
What is substitutionary atonement, and why does it sometimes generate controversy among Christians today? This edition of Ask the Church explores the biblical meaning of Christ bearing our sins and clarifies common misunderstandings that portray the doctrine unfairly. We also learn how substitutionary atonement fits alongside other biblical images of salvation, rather than replacing them.
The Rev. Steven Breedlove // Psalm 37:1-11; 1 Corinthians 1:18-31; Matthew 5:1-12
Who is Satan, and how does he tempt human beings? In this edition of Ask the Church, we explore a biblical understanding of Satan, emphasizing both the reality and the limits of his power. We learn how temptation most often works through deception rather than coercion, and why Christians need not live in fear.
The Rev. Charles Alex Riffee // Amos 3:1-11; Psalm 139:1-18; 1 Corinthians 1:10-17; Matthew 4:12-22
What does it mean to be made in the image of God? This edition of Ask the Church explores the biblical teaching that human dignity flows from God's creative purpose, not from our abilities or achievements. The image of God is expressed through our relationships and responsibilities as we seek to faithfully represent God in the world.
The Rev. Steven Breedlove // Exodus 12:21-28; Psalm 40:1-10; 1 Corinthians 1:1-9; John 1:29-42
In this special Sunday School lesson, we explore the Gospel of John as a retelling of the Exodus story. Tracing themes of deliverance, worship, living water, and new creation helps illuminate how John presents Jesus as the one who forms God's people as His children. The discussion moves toward a reflection on the Church as a kingdom of priests, with forgiveness at the heart of Christian vocation, inviting us to read Scripture more attentively and to consider how these themes shape both faith and daily life.⛪ Church of the Incarnation is an Anglican (ACNA) parish in western Henrico, Virginia, committed to:
What are the Creeds, and why do Christians continue to say them week after week? This edition of Ask the Church introduces the Nicene, Apostles', and Athanasian Creeds, explaining their origins, purposes, and place in Christian worship. We also address a common concern: what should we do when reciting the Creeds begins to feel rote rather than heartfelt? Listen to learn how the Creeds summarize the gospel, guard our faith, and unite Christians across all ages.
The Rev. Justin Hendrix // Isaiah 42:1-9; Psalm 89:20-29; Acts 10:34-38; Matthew 3:13-17
Why do Anglicans baptize babies while some other Christian traditions do not? In this edition of Ask the Church, we explore how these differences flow from an understanding about the nature of baptism itself—whether it is primarily a human symbol or a sacramental action of God. Drawing on Scripture and biblical parallels with circumcision, we see that infants are included in the covenant while still being called to grow into faith and obedience.
Rev. Steven Breedlove // Jeremiah 31:7-14; Psalm 84; Ephesians 1:3-14; Luke 2:41-52
What is the Feast of the Epiphany, and why do Christians celebrate it on January 6? On this edition of Ask the Church, we learn how Epiphany marks the revelation of God in Jesus Christ—especially to the Gentiles—and why it has been celebrated since the earliest centuries of the Church. We also discover how Epiphany opens the season of Ordinary Time, inviting Christians to reflect on how God's self-revelation transforms everyday life. Listen in and join us in discovering why this ancient feast still matters today.
The Rev. Steven Breedlove // Isaiah 61:10-62:5; Psalm 147:12-20; Galatians 3:23-4:7; John 1:1-18
The Rev. Justin Hendrix // Isaiah 62:6-12; Psalm 97; Titus 3:4-7; Luke 2:6-20
The Rev. Steven Breedlove // Isaiah 9:1-7; Psalm 96; Titus 2:11-14; Luke 2:1-20
Rev. Michael Davis // Isaiah 7:10-17; Psalm 24; Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-25
In this third session on death and dying, we explore the Bible's foundational teaching on what death is—and what it is not. Drawing from Jesus' declaration that God is “not the God of the dead, but of the living” (Mt 22:32; Mk 12.27; Lk 20:38), and from Paul's teachings on the resurrection, this lesson examines the relationship between body, soul, and eternal life. Far from viewing death as the end of life, we learn how Scripture presents death as a transition that draws us further into a closer relationship with God. This session seeks to offer a clear, hope-filled Christian vision of death, rooted in faith in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.⛪ Church of the Incarnation is an Anglican (ACNA) parish in western Henrico, Virginia, committed to:
Why did God become man? In this edition of Ask the Church, we explore the Christian teaching that the Incarnation is about far more than Christ's death on the cross. Drawing from Ephesians 1, we see how Jesus's entire life replays and renews human history on our behalf, uniting heaven and earth in Himself. Join us to learn how the Incarnation reveals God's plan to remake humanity through Christ's life, death, resurrection, and ascension.
Rev. Justin Hendrix // Isaiah 35; Psalm 146; James 5:7-20; Matthew 11:2-19
What are the Thirty–Nine Articles of Religion, and why do they matter for Anglicans today? In this edition of Ask the Church, we seek to explain how the Articles emerged during the English Reformation to address key theological questions and how they continue to serve as an authoritative statement of Anglican belief. Although not a complete confession of faith, the Articles—together with Scripture, the Creeds, the liturgy, and the Ordinal—form a central part of Anglican doctrine.
Rev. Steven Breedlove // Psalm 72; Isaiah 11:1-10; Matthew 3:1-12
In this second session on death and dying, we focus on the ethical challenges Christians often encounter at the end of life, especially in medical settings. Drawing on Scripture, theology, and decades of experience in chaplaincy and healthcare ethics, the discussion explores questions of autonomy, dignity, quality of life, and decision-making. In lieu of offering formulas or easy answers, the lesson provides a Christian framework for thinking faithfully and compassionately about complex end-of-life decisions. It invites believers to approach these moments grounded in the conviction that every person is created in the image of God and held in His care.⛪ Church of the Incarnation is an Anglican (ACNA) parish in western Henrico, Virginia, committed to:
What is Advent, and why do Christians prepare before celebrating Christmas? In this edition of Ask the Church, we trace the season back to the early centuries of the Church and explain why preparation—fasting, prayer, and repentance—comes before joy. Advent reminds us of the three comings of Christ: His birth in Bethlehem, His coming into our hearts, and His promised return. Tune in to discover the meaning behind the season's themes of longing, hope, and holy preparation.
Rev. Steven Breedlove // Isaiah 2:1-5; Psalm 122; Romans 13:8-14; Matthew 24:29-44
Why is thanksgiving such an important Christian virtue? Far more than a seasonal theme, gratitude is the basic posture of the soul that trusts God. Scripture shows that giving thanks is “faith in action,” shaping us into people marked by humility, dependence, and hope. This edition of Ask the Church explores why thanksgiving lies at the heart of the Christian life and how practicing it helps form the heart even when gratitude feels difficult.
This Sunday School lesson takes a thoughtful look at how Christians understand death and dying, drawing on Scripture, the historic witness of the Church, and experiences from pastoral care and hospital chaplaincy. We explore why modern culture tends to avoid this topic and how movements such as the Enlightenment and Romanticism have shaped contemporary attitudes toward mortality. The lesson introduces the historic Christian idea of Ars moriendi, reflecting on how believers through the centuries have prepared for death with courage, faith, and trust in the Resurrection. This is an invitation to consider what it means to approach death as disciples of Jesus — grounded in our identity in Him and sustained by the hope of new life.⛪ Church of the Incarnation is an Anglican (ACNA) parish in western Henrico, Virginia, committed to:
Rev. Steven Breedlove // Jeremiah 23:1-6; Psalm 46; Colossians 1:11-20; Luke 23:35-43
Money is one of the most frequently discussed topics in the Bible—and for good reason. It is powerful, deeply symbolic, and one of the easiest things to trust in instead of God. In this Sunday School lesson, we look at the Old Testament's tithes, charity laws, and debt practices before seeing how Jesus fulfills the law and invites us into a deeper, freer, and more generous way of life.⛪ Church of the Incarnation is an Anglican (ACNA) parish in western Henrico, Virginia, committed to:
Rev. Charles Alex Riffee // Psalm 17; II Thessalonians 2:13-3:5; Luke 20:27-38
Rev. Steven Breedlove // Isaiah 1:10-20; Psalm 32; Luke 19:1-10
Should Christians pray for the dead? In this edition of Ask the Church, we explore what the Bible and church history say about the practice and why the Anglican church rejects the medieval idea of purgatory. We discuss the difference between prayers for the dead (seeking to shorten suffering) and prayers about the dead (thanking God for their lives and commending them to His mercy).
Rev. Justin Hendrix // Jeremiah 14:7-10, 19-22; Psalm 84; II Timothy 4:6-18; Luke 18:9-14
How can Christians resist temptation and stay faithful? This edition of Ask the Church explains the three sources of temptation— the world, the flesh, and the devil— and the two biblical responses: resistance and flight. It also explores why prayer and fellowship with other believers are essential in the struggle against sin.
Rev. Steven Breedlove // Psalm 121; II Timothy 3:14-4:5; Luke 18:1-8
Why should Christians confess their sins to a priest? In this edition of Ask the Church, we explore why the Bible assumes confession happens in community and how God works through others to assure us of His forgiveness. Drawing on James 5 and John 20, we learn how Jesus entrusted His Church with the authority to declare forgiveness and how Anglican priests exercise that ministry.
The Rev. Steven Breedlove // Psalm 113; 2 Timothy 2:1-15; Luke 17:11-19
Today I'm speaking with Seth Quig. Seth is a seasoned outdoor professional with over two decades of experience in outdoor education and international adventure travel. Facebook Twitter Instagram Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! I didn't pay rent for nearly 10 years. Seriously. I was either crashing in guard houses, sleeping in a tent, or living out of my truck between Idaho and Baja. Some might call it dirtbagging—I call it my MBA in life. Back then, my “home” was wherever the river ran or the mountain rose. I wasn't building a business. I wasn't even thinking about one. I was chasing adventure, guiding people through whitewater and Himalayan passes. But somewhere between the third trip up Kilimanjaro and watching bulldozers drop boulders into a rapid I was about to run… I realized something. Adventure wasn't the goal. It was the vehicle. A vehicle for connection. For transformation. For pushing people out of comfort and into character. PRINCIPLE: If you want to create something meaningful in the outdoor industry—or in life—you've got to stop thinking of adventure as the destination. It's the doorway. The best guides (and entrepreneurs) don't just lead people outside. They lead them into themselves. And to do that, you don't need perfect branding or a 10-step funnel. You need to understand people, risk, fear, group dynamics—and how to hold space when someone's terrified of peeing in a Porta-Potty. TRANSITION: But most aspiring adventure entrepreneurs never make it to that level. They get stuck thinking passion is enough. That loving nature or guiding people qualifies you to build a sustainable business. But loving rivers doesn't teach you finance. Running the Inca Trail doesn't show you how to manage a team, onboard a client, or navigate a cultural crisis in Kathmandu. So what happens? Burnout. Disconnection. Businesses that are all sizzle, no soul. THAT'S WHY: That's why this episode with Seth Quig isn't just about whitewater and trekking tales. It's a masterclass in what it really takes to make a living in adventure travel today. We're talking risk, realism, radical honesty—and how to build a business that doesn't just profit, but gives back. CALL TO ACTION: Tired of feeling like your passion for the outdoors isn't enough to build the career you want? That's because it isn't—not without the right mindset and mentorship. Discover what most outdoor pros get wrong and how to flip the script. Listen to this episode now and find the trailhead to a better business.