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We continue our "Sunday School: A Fresh Look at Familiar Stories" series with a look at the well-known story of the Tower of Babel. Together, we explore how this ancient account speaks directly to our modern world, and what it means to follow Jesus in a culture where appearances of unity often mask deeper divisions. Join us as we seek wisdom, clarity, and purpose through God's Word. Scripture Referenced: Genesis 11:1-9
We continue our "Sunday School: A Fresh Look at Familiar Stories" series by exploring the Book of Ruth and what it reveals about unwavering love and faithfulness amid deep loss and hardship. Listen in for a fresh perspective on Ruth's journey—a story of hope, loyalty, and God's redeeming grace. Scripture Referenced: Ruth 1-4
We continue our "Sunday School: A Fresh Look at Familiar Stories" series by diving into one of the most well-known Bible stories — Daniel in the lion's den. While it's often told in children's books, this powerful account carries profound truths for people of all ages. This message explores this story with fresh eyes and an open heart, discovering how it speaks into our everyday struggles. Scripture Referenced: Daniel 6
This Sunday, we kicked off an 8-week summer sermon series called "Sunday School: A Fresh Look at Familiar Stories." We revisited one of the most well-known—and deeply human—stories in the Bible: Cain and Abel, exploring the powerful themes of jealousy, broken relationships, and how these struggles shape our walk with God and our connections with others. Scripture Referenced: Genesis 4:1-16
Life is both beautiful and disappointing, but the story of God has always been one of His pursuit of us. Drew Hyun, former New Life pastor and now the Founder and Lead Pastor of Hope Church NYC, guides us through a powerful message exploring how the Christian story can be summed up in three words: beautiful, disappointing, hopeful, and how God continues to see and notice us, even when we may not realize it. Scripture Referenced: Acts 17:22-28
This message concludes our series on The New Family of Jesus. Together, we reflect on one of Jesus' most profound prayers and consider what it means for our congregation to grow deeper in life together. Scripture Referenced: John 17:20-23
In this episode, I talk with Will Parker Anderson—writer, editor, and founder of The Writer's Circle—about the tension we all feel between productivity and presence, business and ministry, hustle and holiness. Will brings clarity and honesty to the internal battle many creatives face: how do we create from a place of joy, not just ambition? How do we resist comparison, reclaim play, and keep our identity grounded—not in our platform—but in the God who delights in us? We dig into the realities of Christian publishing, the spiritual disciplines that sustain us, and the hidden dangers of remote work and quiet isolation. Whether you're a writer, an entrepreneur, or someone simply trying to live faithfully in a noisy world, this conversation is full of wisdom, vulnerability, and practical encouragement for staying rooted in what matters most.Will Parker Anderson is a senior editor at WaterBrook and Multnomah, an imprint of Penguin Random House—the world's largest publisher. He specializes in acquiring and editing Christian living, Bible teaching, spiritual formation, and faith-based inspirational nonfiction. Will has collaborated with authors like Rich Villodas, Josh Butler, Jon Tyson, Doug Wekenman, and YouTuber Ruslan KD, helping them shape compelling books that resonate with readers.Beyond publishing, Will's background includes fifteen years in pastoral ministry and nonprofit work, giving him a deep understanding of the spiritual and practical challenges writers face. His writing and editorial expertise extends to a range of media outlets, including The Chosen, The Gospel Coalition, Dwell Bible App, Preaching Today, and Relevant magazine.Will holds a BA in journalism from Biola University and an MA in New Testament from Talbot School of Theology. A passionate teacher, he has taught biblical studies and theology at both the high school and college levels. Based in Southern California, Will spends his free time exploring the outdoors with his wife, Emily, and their three young children, which means he's often running on caffeine and grace.Will's Website:writerscircle.coWill's Recommendation:Every Moment Holy Vol. IIISubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowSubscribe on Substack for Early, Ad-Free Episodes and More Support the show
The New Family of Jesus is beautifully diverse, spanning every age and stage of life. Yet many of us have never truly experienced the richness of blessing across generational lines. This message explores how God invites us to both give and receive blessing between generations—restoring connection, honoring one another, and living as a reconciled family in Christ. Scripture Referenced: 2 Timothy 1:1-9
We continue our series on The New Family of Jesus. We explore how the family that Jesus is forming makes space for those who are economically and socially marginalized. Scripture Referenced: Galatians 2:1-10
In John 9, Jesus heals a man born blind, but the real story is what happens after. Guest speaker and Lead Pastor of Bridgetown Church, Tyler Staton, leads us as we explore the surprising and often disruptive ways Jesus brings about true healing and lasting restoration. Scripture Referenced: John 9
Pastor Rich continues our series through The New Family of Jesus. We explore how Jesus unites men and women in partnership to fulfill the mission of the gospel. Discover what this means for our life together, our homes, and our mission as a church family. Scripture Referenced: Genesis 3:16-19, Galatians 3:28
“We must have some room to breathe. We need freedom to think and permission to heal. Our relationships are being starved to death by velocity.” — Dr. Richard Swenson, The Overload SyndromeIn our fast-paced, always-on world, these words ring true. We're overloaded—physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially. But what if the antidote to our exhaustion isn't doing more, but doing less? Today, let's look at rest from a biblical perspective.What Is Margin?Margin is the “room to breathe” that Dr. Swenson describes. It's the space between our load and our limits, which allows us to pause before we break.Too often, we end the day with nothing left—no time, energy, or money. Then the next day starts…full throttle again.That kind of lifestyle comes at a cost. The Sleep Foundation reports that nearly half of Americans experience trouble sleeping—a third of them get less than seven hours of sleep a night. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to serious (and expensive) health problems like anxiety, heart disease, and diabetes. It also undermines our relationships and decision-making.The truth? Rest is not a luxury. It's wisdom.God Created RestGod rested on the seventh day of Creation—not because He needed to, but because His work was complete. He blessed that rest and called it holy (Genesis 2:3).Later, He enshrined the Sabbath in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:8-11). Why? Because He knows our tendency to keep pushing ourselves, and He lovingly tells us to stop. As pastor and author Rich Villodas says:“God gives us Sabbath—he gives us rest—as a gift to remind us that our standing in Christ is not based on our works. When we rest, we're reminded: I'm not producing anything…and God still loves me.”Margin in a Work-Obsessed WorldTechnology allows us to work from anywhere, at any time. But just because we can doesn't mean we should. Rest gives us the strength and focus to do our work “as unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23).Working late nights and skipping vacations might seem productive, but over time, they damage what matters most—our health, our relationships, and our spiritual lives.Rest doesn't mean avoiding work. It means working wisely and worshipfully—and stepping away when it's time to refuel.The Difference Between Rest and LazinessNow, let's be clear: Rest is not laziness.Laziness is neglecting what we're called to do. It violates God's design for us to work, serve, and create. Paul warned the Thessalonians to “warn those who are idle and disruptive” (1 Thess. 5:14), and added in 2 Thessalonians 3:11 that idleness often masks itself as busyness.Proverbs 31 praises the noble woman who works diligently. Verse 27 says she “does not eat the bread of idleness.” Laziness can show up subtly, like scrolling endlessly or shopping to avoid responsibility.Proverbs 24:30–31 tells of a neglected field, overgrown and crumbling, due to a lack of care. That's what happens when laziness takes root. But there's hope.Rest Is a Gift of GraceWhether you're burned out or stuck in patterns of procrastination, God's grace meets you where you are. Jesus doesn't offer a tighter schedule—He offers a lighter burden.“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened,” Jesus says, “and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)Rest isn't something you earn. It's something you receive. So step into the rhythm of grace, not guilt. Your soul—and your stewardship—depends on it.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My son is 26, and last year he was able to start a 401(k) with his job. I want to get him a Roth IRA and start with $200 to get something going. Is that a good idea?I'm 87 years old. If all my assets have beneficiaries designated, is there any reason to have probate, or is there a maximum dollar amount that requires probate, so I would have to get a trust?I pay my bills and save as much as I can. Is it okay for me to spend $10 at the Salvation Army to get a new church dress? I don't make much money, but I get paid every two weeks with a decent check.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)The Overload Syndrome: Learning to Live Within Your Limits by Dr. Richard A. SwensonMargin: Restoring Emotional, Physical, Financial, and Time Reserves to Overloaded Lives by Dr. Richard A. SwensonSchwab Intelligent Portfolios | BettermentHeart for LebanonWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.
We continue our series on The New Family of Jesus, exploring how racism harms the family of Jesus and our world. And, we examine how the gospel calls us to be different. Scripture Referenced: Galatians 3:28
We continue our 8-week sermon series titled The New Family of Jesus. This message examines the gospel's call to a new humanity that addresses the complexity of ethnic & racial diversity. Scripture Referenced: Ephesians 2:14-22
How do we, as the new family of Jesus, respond to the division and injustices we are encountering all around us? We continue our 8-week sermon series titled The New Family of Jesus, exploring what Ephesians 6 teaches us about how we can be on guard and stand in power together to resist evil forces at work in our world. Scripture Referenced: Ephesians 6:10-20
We're starting an 8-week journey exploring the call to Justice and Reconciliation—values at the heart of our New Life community. This is the first message in this series. In a time marked by division and brokenness, we'll press into Jesus' vision for a reconciled people and discover how it transforms our hearts, our relationships, and our world. Scripture Referenced: Revelation 7:9-10
In this part 2 of my conversation with Will Parker Anderson, we talk about the spiritual side of publishing. * Three common spiritual temptations that Christian writers face* How we can approach common issues like impostor syndrome and the fear of putting our work out into the world.* The ways in which AI can never beat humans at writing* How being called to write doesn't mean it will be easyWill Parker Anderson is a senior editor at WaterBrook and Multnomah, an imprint of Penguin Random House, where he acquires and edits Christian living, Bible teaching, spiritual formation, and faith-based inspirational nonfiction titles. Will has collaborated with authors like Rich Villodas, Josh Butler, Jon Tyson, Doug Wekenman, and YouTuber Ruslan KD, helping them shape compelling books that resonate with readers.Beyond publishing, Will's background includes fifteen years in pastoral ministry and nonprofit work, giving him a deep understanding of the spiritual and practical challenges writers face. His writing and editorial expertise extends to a range of media outlets, including The Chosen, The Gospel Coalition, Dwell Bible App, Preaching Today, and Relevant magazine.Will holds a BA in journalism from Biola University and an MA in New Testament from Talbot School of Theology. A passionate teacher, he has taught biblical studies and theology at both the high school and college levels. Based in Southern California, Will spends his free time exploring the outdoors with his wife, Emily, and their three young children, which means he's often running on caffeine and grace.You can find him and subscriber to his newsletter, The Writers' Circle, at https://www.writerscircle.co/He's also on Instagram The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you'll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I'd love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.comDisclaimer: I believe in and approach life (and writing) from a distinctly evangelical Christian perspective, but some of my guests may not. When I interview a guest on a specifically spiritual topic, I do my best to know in advance that I can support their theological stances on the topics that relate to our interview. When the topic is not particularly spiritual, our theological views may differ. My interviewing of guests and providing links to their work does not necessarily indicate a complete theological endorsement of all their written work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com
In response to the resurrection of Jesus, we do what missional followers of Jesus have done over the centuries— we go and tell. Pastor Redd leads us in a message examining how the Easter season is a wonderful time to go to friends and family and tell them of what Jesus has done for you. Scripture Referenced: Mark 5:1-20
Do you want to write and publish a book but you'd like to hear from an editor what's involved? Listen in to the first half of my conversation with Will Parker Anderson, Senior Editor at Waterbrook and Multnomah. In this episode we talk about:* Common mistakes writers make in their book proposals* Why short cuts to publishing don't exist* The role of social media in getting a traditional book deal* The difference between concept-driven books and platform-driven books* The importance of writing for others to read and getting feedback on your writing* How to view platform-building and ways to build it* Practical ways to prepare yourself to be publishedWill Parker Anderson is a senior editor at WaterBrook and Multnomah, an imprint of Penguin Random House, where he acquires and edits Christian living, Bible teaching, spiritual formation, and faith-based inspirational nonfiction titles. Will has collaborated with authors like Rich Villodas, Josh Butler, Jon Tyson, Doug Wekenman, and YouTuber Ruslan KD, helping them shape compelling books that resonate with readers.Beyond publishing, Will's background includes fifteen years in pastoral ministry and nonprofit work, giving him a deep understanding of the spiritual and practical challenges writers face. His writing and editorial expertise extends to a range of media outlets, including The Chosen, The Gospel Coalition, Dwell Bible App, Preaching Today, and Relevant magazine.Will holds a BA in journalism from Biola University and an MA in New Testament from Talbot School of Theology. A passionate teacher, he has taught biblical studies and theology at both the high school and college levels. Based in Southern California, Will spends his free time exploring the outdoors with his wife, Emily, and their three young children, which means he's often running on caffeine and grace.You can find him and subscriber to his newsletter, The Writers' Circle, at https://www.writerscircle.co/He's also on Instagram The Purposeful Pen is a weekly podcast for Christian writers designed to help you build a writing life with eternal impact. Each week you'll hear practical tips and Biblical truth on topics such as improving your writing, honing your message, and managing your time. I always respond to listener emails and I'd love to hear from you! Amysimon@amylynnsimon.comDisclaimer: I believe in and approach life (and writing) from a distinctly evangelical Christian perspective, but some of my guests may not. When I interview a guest on a specifically spiritual topic, I do my best to know in advance that I can support their theological stances on the topics that relate to our interview. When the topic is not particularly spiritual, our theological views may differ. My interviewing of guests and providing links to their work does not necessarily indicate a complete theological endorsement of all their written work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amylynnsimon.substack.com
We join the Church worldwide in celebrating our risen Lord, Jesus Christ. Pastor Rich leads us through a passage in the book of Revelation, reminding us of the hope the resurrection offers those who believe. Scripture Referenced: Revelation 2:8-11
We live in a world of bullies. But how do we face them? Pastor Jason delivers the final message of our series on The Narrow Path. We explore how Jesus teaches us to confront bullies without becoming like them. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:38-48
Pastor Rich continues our series on The Narrow Path. We explore one of the most misunderstood teachings of Jesus. What does Jesus mean when he says "do not judge?" This message has importance for every area of our lives. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 7:1-5
Our daily lives are filled with ample reasons to worry, and yet Jesus says in his Sermon on the Mount that we are not to be anxious. This can feel like a pie in the sky ideal Jesus is holding up that we are not meant to achieve in this lifetime. In this message, Pastor Helen explores Jesus' teachings to understand how Christ's followers can continue to be — as many have throughout church history — people marked by non-anxious peace. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 6:25-34
Dallas Willard challenges us to "ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life." John Mark Comer was so moved by this line, he titled his book "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry." We wonder why we can't hear the voice of God, or find his presence in the busy-ness of life. Perhaps the still, small voice still speaks in those inner rooms and deserted places Jesus chose to frequent throughout his life. Could it be that "doing more" is actually standing in the way of "being with"?The sermon today is titled "Wasting Time With God." It is the eighth installment in our series "Follow Me", and the fourth in the sub-series "Be With Jesus." The Scripture reading is from Luke 10:38-42 (ESV). Originally preached at the West Side Church of Christ (Searcy, AR) on March 23, 2025. All lessons fit under one of 6 broad categories: Begin, Instill, Discover, Grow, Learn, and Serve. This sermon is filed under GROW: Spiritual Formation.Click here if you would like to watch the sermon or read a transcript.Podcast Notes (resources used or referenced):John Mark Comer, Practicing the Way.Rich Villodas, The Deeply Formed Life.Luke Timothy Johnson, Luke (Sacra Pagina).Tim Keller, "With the Anxious" (Feb 9, 1997).Eric Pickersgill Photos.Jonathan Storment, "Rise & Shine" (notes from this sermon), preached at Pleasant Valley Church of Christ; generously provided by Jonathan; used with permission.I'd love to connect with you!Watch sermons and find transcripts at nathanguy.com.Follow along each Sunday through YouTube livestream and find a study guide on the sermon notes page.Follow me @nathanpguy (facebook/instagram/twitter)Subscribe to my email newsletter on substack.
Pastor Rich continues to lead us through the Sermon on the Mount. He examines Jesus's statements on the integrity of our words. In a world filled with lies, half-truths, and spin, we learn what it means to align the integrity of our words to our relationship with God and others. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:33-37
Pastor Rich explores a passage that has been problematic for many. He will unpack Jesus's words on the power of lust and how it impacts our relationships and souls. More than just a sermon on external behavior modification, Jesus will address the aspects we often overlook that lead to transformed lives and relationships. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:27-30
Pastor Rich continues The Narrow Path series on the Sermon on the Mount as we move through this Lenten season. He explores the role that anger has in our lives and how we can address it in a way that forms us in the way of Jesus. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:21-26
Jason Gaboury continues our series through the Sermon on the Mount. He explores the lines "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors" written in The Lord's Prayer, and what it reveals to us about forgiveness. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 6:9-15
Pastor Rich continues our series through the Sermon on the Mount. He explores the first three requests Jesus instructs us to pray for that make a significant difference in the ways we are formed by the world around us. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 6:9-11
We continue our series through the Sermon on the Mount. Pastor Sherin prepares us for Lent by moving us ahead to the opening lines of The Lord's Prayer. In its first few words, Jesus invites us to a simple but profound connection to a God who is committed to your good. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 6:9-13
Topics Covered: Resources Mentioned: Show Sponsor: My goal in this podcast is to help you grow as a worship leader. Of course that includes your formation, but it isn't limited to that—it's also with practical tools to help you in your ministry. It's hard to talk about being a worship leader without mentioning Planning Center. As […] The post #345: Rich Villodas on Contemplative vs Charismatic Tensions, Church Growth, & The Narrow Path of Jesus appeared first on Beyond Sunday Worship.
Pastor Rich continues our series through the Sermon on the Mount, exploring Jesus' words on being the fulfillment of the Law and Prophets and the calling we have as his followers to live with a deeper righteousness than the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law. We discover how this portion of the Sermon on the Mount is good news for us and how we grow in our spiritual lives. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:17-20
Rich Villodas on X: "A theology that ends in lovelessness cannot be Christian. - Thomas Merton" Jon Root on X: "This is the worst decision President Trump has made since taking office… Paula White is a heretic, who pedals the prosperity gospel. Plus, women should not be pastors according to The Bible. (Clip via https://t.co/CELeRLbIJA) https://t.co/7dkc7qHcDe" / X Rapid Response 47 on X: "PRESIDENT TRUMP: "This week, I am also creating the White House Faith Office led by Pastor Paula White." https://t.co/xqYZXcaK01" What to Do When the World Around You Crumbles The Sports Betting House Always Wins. Who Loses? We Do. Lest We DriftSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In Matthew 5, Jesus follows the Beatitudes with two metaphors that describe Christ's followers. This message, which is part of our Narrow Path Series on the Sermon On The Mount explores how Jesus' words help frame our purpose and the meaning of our lives in a hopeful, yet challenging way. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:13-16
We continue our series on The Narrow Path with Pastor Rich leading us through the last 3 beatitudes in Jesus' Sermon On The Mount. We will spend most of our time focusing on what it means to be a peacemaker. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:6-8
Ken Dilanian on X: "It’s hard to convey what a crushing blow this is to the Justice Department and the criminal justice system. This was the biggest criminal investigation in American history. Many of these people were sentenced by Trump appointed judges." Rich Villodas on X: "More than anything, today is a great day for the Church to take seriously the Sermon on the Mount. May we as followers of Jesus organize our lives around his presence and his teachings, offering a prophetic and priestly witness that confounds the world." Hospice nurse reveals the heartbreaking regret most people have before they dieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pastor Rich continues our series through the Sermon on the Mount, exploring Beatitudes 4-6 in the Bible. In these declarations of blessedness spoken by Jesus, we will be invited to hunger for righteousness, live mercifully, and cultivate purity of heart. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:6-8
We continue our series through the Sermon on the Mount. Pastor Rich leads us in exploring the first three Beatitudes that Jesus teaches and we discover how Jesus' way exposes the lies we have come to believe about our world and ourselves. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:3-5
Pastor Rich kicks off a brand new series entitled The Narrow Path. For the first three months of the year, we journey through the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), patiently working through what is regarded as the best sermon ever preached. Scripture Referenced: Matthew 5:1-2, Matthew 7:13-14
"There are open vistas available to us in Christ," says Rich Villodas in this conversation with Nathan about the narrow path of Jesus and the quality of a life transformed by the perspectives and practices of Christ.Show NotesRich Villodas is the Brooklyn-born lead pastor of New Life Fellowship, a large, multiracial church with more than seventy-five countries represented in Elmhurst, Queens. Prior to becoming lead pastor, he gave oversight to New Life's small group ministry and served as preaching pastor. Rich graduated with a BA in pastoral ministry and theology from Nyack College. He went on to complete his master's of divinity from Alliance Theological Seminary. He enjoys reading widely, and preaching and writing on contemplative spirituality, justice-related issues, and the art of preaching. He's been married to Rosie since 2006 and they have two beautiful children, Karis and Nathan.You can find Rich on social media @richvillodas The Narrow Path (Rich's new book)New Life NYC (Rich Villodas' church)
Read Matthew 2:1-12 and follow the path of the Magi in discovering the King they were seeking outside the places of power and prestige.
Part 4 of our #advent series is all about glory and peace, two things that are to mark our relationship with God.
As a pastor, author, and speaker, Rich Villodas has spent a lot of time studying the Scriptures. Over the years, he's realized what he treasures about them: “ I love that the Bible is not this collection of sanitized, holy people,” he said. “It's a collection of broken, frail people who are made righteous by a goodness outside of themselves.” Villodas and Moore discuss that righteousness and goodness through the lens of the Sermon on the Mount. They talk about the type of life Jesus calls his people to live and consider what it looks like to engage with the emotions of our loved ones. The two converse about the prescriptive power of the Psalms, consider the role of forgiveness, and explore the nature of resentment as they cover Jesus' statements about anger and lust. Resources mentioned in this episode or recommended by the guest include: Rich Villodas The Narrow Path: How the Subversive Way of Jesus Satisfies Our Souls by Rich Villodas Good and Beautiful and Kind: Becoming Whole in a Fractured World by Rich Villodas The Deeply Formed Life: Five Transformative Values to Root Us in the Way of Jesus by Rich Villodas “Christianity Today's 2021 Book Awards” Matthew: A Commentary. Volume 1: The Christbook, Matthew 1–12 by Frederick Dale Bruner “Bitter-sweet” by George Herbert Don't Forgive Too Soon: Extending the Two Hands That Heal by Dennis Linn, Sheila Fabricant Linn, and Matthew Linn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Obedience to the ways of Jesus can sound closed-minded or restrictive, but in today's episode we're breaking down that myth for good. We're delighted to have pastor Rich Villodas join us today to talk about what it looks like to live on the Narrow Path Jesus taught about, and why it creates the most expansive life you could have. Learn what cultural Christianity gets wrong about the way of Jesus and how to walk the narrow way for a more joy filled life and marriage. We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. Episode highlights include: Signs you're not living out the Narrow Path Jesus taught about Learn the damaging beliefs of cultural Christianity that don't align with Jesus' teaching Ways that shallow faith shows up in marriage - and what to do about it Internal shifts to help you value what matters to your spouse Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips! *Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! Couples Conversation Guide: Main takeaway: Dying to self to live in Christ is the path to a full and expansive life. What would it look like to live this out in your marriage today? Questions to Discuss: How are you doing with each of the cultural values of successism, moralism, and hyperindividualism in your marriage? What growth step would help you follow the narrow way of Jesus more closely with each of those? QUOTES “It seems restrictive on the outside, but ultimately following Jesus leads to greater spaciousness in our lives.” - Rich Villodas “Is it possible for Christians to be on the ‘broad path'? Absolutely. Which is why the Sermon on the Mount is a wake up call to the kind of discipleship that Jesus is calling us to live into.” - Rich Villodas “Jesus is saying, ‘the kind of life you were designed for is found in my teachings.'” - Rich Villodas “We might be on the broad path if we are organizing our lives according to worldly notions of what success is.” - Rich Villodas “The paradox of the Christian life is that to die in Christ is to actually come alive and truly live.” - Rich Villodas MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Rich's new book The Narrow Path: How the Subversive Way of Jesus Satisfies Our Souls Find more from Rich on his website, on Instagram, and learn more about his church, NewLife.nyc Ready to break free from negative thought patterns? Use these 11 Prayers to get you on the right path! Grab the beloved House Prayer Cards and make praying over your home a regular part of your day! Our ministry is made possibly ONLY through our generous donors. Plus, they get each month's new marriage resource automatically, as well as some other exclusive perks! Learn more about Marriage Changers Membership here. Sign up for Dr. Kim's Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!
Pastor Rich explores the Advent story of Zechariah. We look at the ways God shows up in his life, which has implications for the ways God shows up in our lives. We focus on themes of waiting, God's grace, and the limits of human potential that open us up to God's power.
Do you wonder if there is more to the Christian faith than you have right now? Could it be that your faith is too shallow? You may be committed to being a Christian but what do you know of being with Jesus? Pastor Rich Villodas shows us the way out of the shallows into a meaningful life, deeply formed by Jesus Himself! Resource: The Deeply Formed Life Equipped with Chris Brooks is made possible by your support. To donate now, click here
This week, we're joined by Rich Villodas, the Brooklyn-born lead pastor of New Life Fellowship and a key speaker for Emotionally Healthy Discipleship. Rich will be discussing how depersonalization, deception, and division are shaping our souls in a culture of contempt, how to honor people we don't respect, how to know if our souls are in danger, and the false images of God we often construct. Rich is a passionate advocate for emotional health and spiritual growth. He has a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life and to challenge them to live authentic, fulfilling lives. I'm excited to have him here for the conversation to share his insights and wisdom with us. It's a great conversation. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
You can't be emotionally unhealthy AND spiritually mature—and thought-leader, Rich Villodas, has made it his mission to help others aggressively take ground in that arena. Whether it's learning to express emotions, getting honest about the difficulty of life, or learning to stop judging your usefulness based upon what you can do, Rich offers accessible wisdom in crossing a topic that's often fraught with landmines. With Rich, you'll see, aggressiveness doesn't always mean big, brash, and loud.
In this episode, Rebekah and Gabe sit down with Rich Villodas to explore the themes of his latest book, The Narrow Path: How the Subversive Way of Jesus Satisfies Our Souls. Rich shares why he felt compelled to write about the Sermon on the Mount and how its radical teachings are more relevant than ever in today's culture, especially in a time of political and social unrest. They discuss how moralism, success-ism, and individualism can trap us on the “broad path” without even realizing it and how Jesus' countercultural way frees us to live and love well.Listen in as Rich shares wisdom on how to avoid feeding anxiety, which can lead to bondage, and offers insights on resilience, the importance of spiritual rhythms, and how to practice obedience to the teachings of Jesus in our everyday lives.ResourcesCheck out Rich's book, The Narrow Path.Hear more from Rich on the Resilient Pastor Podcast.Dive deeper with Rebekah's books: Rhythms of Renewal and Building a Resilient Life.Reserve your spot now for Rhythms Retreat November 21-22 in Franklin, TN. Use code RFL100 to save $100.Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom:Before the upcoming election, hold a Let's Talk Politics conversation with your family or small group right in your living room using our THINQ Smart TV app.Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville.Bring the 28-Day Digital Fast to your family, workplace, or church throughout the month of January.More from the THINQ Podcast Network:THINQ Media Podcast with Gabe LyonsThe InFormed Parent with Suzanne PhillipsNextUp with Grant SkeldonNeuroFaith with Curt ThompsonUnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons
Join us in this enlightening episode of Typology as we dive deep into the world of the Enneagram with our special guest, Rich Villodas, an Enneagram 7 and lead pastor of New Life Fellowship. Rich is the author of bestselling books, including The Deeply Formed Life and his latest work, The Narrow Path: How the Subversive Way of Jesus Satisfies Our Souls. In this episode, we explore Rich's journey of self-discovery, the challenges of being a 7, and the importance of spiritual formation. He shares his insights on the Enneagram, the significance of contemplative prayer, and how to navigate the complexities of anger, anxiety, and grief. We also discuss the difference between being a peacekeeper and a peacemaker, emphasizing the need for vulnerability and truth in our relationships. With a focus on the transformative power of God, this conversation is packed with wisdom and practical advice for anyone seeking deeper understanding and connection. Whether you're familiar with the Enneagram or just starting your journey, this episode is sure to inspire and challenge you. Don't miss out on the nuggets of wisdom Rich has to offer!