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In this conversation, Jeff Brodie shares his journey from youth ministry to lead pastor of Connexus Church, reflecting on family, faith, and the challenges of preaching. He discusses the changing cultural landscape, the growing spiritual openness of unchurched individuals, and how churches can create welcoming environments for genuine encounters with God. Jeff emphasizes the need for authenticity, timeless truth, and community, while advocating for a trust-building, heart-centered approach to ministry that inspires people to engage with their faith and the world around them.Jeff Brodie is the lead pastor at Connexus Church, leading its campuses and partner churches with a passion for making church inviting and accessible. He invests in next-gen leaders and coaches churches to reach more people with the gospel. Jeff and his wife, Leslie, live in Barrie with their two boys and love all things sports-related.TAKEAWAYS+The kitchen table can serve as a hub for ministry and community.+Authenticity in preaching is essential+Cultural shifts have created new opportunities for church outreach.+Unchurched individuals are more open to faith than ever before.+There is a strong desire for timeless truths in a rapidly changing culture.+Creating community is essential for spiritual growth and connection.+Churches often retreat inward during cultural uncertainty, missing outreach opportunities.+Accessible encounters with God can transform lives and communities.+Consistency in outreach efforts builds trust within the community.+It's important to explain church practices to newcomers for better understanding.+The goal of ministry should be to help people encounter Jesus, not just church culture.To learn more about Jeff and Connexus Church, please visit https://connexuschurch.com/. To learn more about the Connexus Network Partnership, please visit https://connexuschurch.com/church-leaders/. #faith #ministry #preaching #church #leadership #growth #youthministry #community #transformation #curiosity #community #truth #accessibleencounters #growth #outreach #unchurchedChapters00:00 Jeff Brodie's Journey to Faith03:44 The Kitchen Table as Ministry06:35 Discovering a Passion for People09:16 Transitioning to Kinexis Church11:51 The Role of a Lead Pastor14:53 Developing Preaching Skills17:29 Cultural Shifts and Church Relevance22:45 The Quest for Timeless Truth25:33 Cultural Alternatives and Community Longing29:13 Creating Accessible Encounters35:46 Building Trust Through Consistency41:26 Heart Over Strategy: Inspiring Change
With how fast everything seems to be moving, what are you telling your kids and grandkids that is important right now? I'll be honest, it's not an easy question to answer. But regardless of how smart AI gets (or whatever technology is next), there are some things that are timeless. Listen in to find out.
Here's the truth... God never said relationships would be (or should be) easy. But don't fret. There is good news. Listen in as I share some hard-learned truths about building strong relationships (and how to avoid the most common pitfalls).
It's time for your harvest season... Are you ready? Have you made the BOLD moves you need to? Listen in to hear more...
There aren't many things that are free, are quick, and can have a massive positive impact on your life. But this is definitely one of them. It also happens to be one the biggest regrets people have in their final years. Enjoy.
Do you have a written Mission Statement for yourself? If not, then you definitely want to listen to this episode. Enjoy and much love, Joe
Welcome to the LoveX2 podcast, where we delve into the disconnect between America's churches and its people. In this episode, we explore the profound insights of Sam Rainer, president of Church Answers, as he shares the intriguing findings from the new research "How the Unchurched Really Feel About the American Church." Discover the misconceptions surrounding church attendance decline, and why the unchurched are more receptive than we realize. Join us for a candid discussion as we uncover the unexpected optimism hidden within church decline statistics and learn about the real reasons keeping people away from church. Challenge your assumptions and unlock new perspectives on how we can bridge the gap between churched and unchurched communities. Partner with the #prolife #podcast by making a gift.  Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/matrika/be-the-one License code: HBLBQ1EMX8ZXGSP4  Â
Although many fishermen associate fishing with a cold beer in hand, others are using fishing as a means to come clean. Listen in to this powerful story of a fisherman who went from daily alcohol and drug use to finding a way to use fishing to change his life. Enjoy.
Host Ben Sudderth, Jr. & Irene Sudderth along with podcast guest will be discussing how Church attendance is declining primarily due to a rising number of people with no religious affiliation, shifting cultural values, generational changes, busy schedules, a perceived disconnect between church teachings and modern life, and a lack of engagement opportunities within many churches, particularly among younger generations who may find traditional practices outdated or irrelevant.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sudds-r-us-podcast--4574394/support.
Looking back at my prayers in 2024, many of them were vague and vanilla. How about you? Did you pray with super-specific thoughts and requests? Listen in as I share a big learning lesson with this.
The Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast: Lead Like Never Before
Only 1% of pastors say their churches are very effective at evangelism. Yet, 72% of people say they are open spiritually. In this episode, Barna CEO David Kinnaman and author Mark Matlock continue the 2025 Church Trends series and discuss the current divide between church and culture, the surprisingly dismal state of evangelism in the church today, and the missed opportunity of unchurched people's surprising spiritual openness.
Could this be the biggest downfall of men in America? The problem only seems to be getting worse. When does it end? Listen in as my special guest shares what he's been going through.
In our recent trip to Georgia, we found out about some killer dogs on the loose near the farm. Listen in to find out what happened.
In this episode, I reveal the top 5 unchurched podcasts (and their message) from 2024. Some absolute gems in here! Much love and Happy New Year.
This past week I had some water damage at the house. Fortunately, it was caught before it got really bad. However, it got me wondering, what else do I need to replace in 2025? So in this episode, I do a deep dive into some of the things holding me (and you) back from hitting our potential.
This week's message is a great reminder on why we need to slow down during certain seasons... I share a couple of embarrassing stories that were the catalyst for this episode. Enjoy.
I definitely needed to hear this message. You?
Whether you're a Sunday school teacher, ministry leader, pastor, or volunteer, this important episode explores the intersection of faith, family, and inclusion. Ministry leader and adoptive parent, Sandy Smith, shares how we can do better at creating welcoming spaces for unchurched youth and non-traditional families, who often feel on the outside looking in. Join this conversation as we discuss the challenges faced by these young people and families and how small churches can create more inclusive, compassionate, and supportive spaces. Listen in to learn about how we can do better with:Behavior standards and kids running in the hallwayPrizes and incentives that unintentionally lead to exclusion instead of motivationMore relational time and why it's essential in our classrooms and youth groupsSensitivity around holidays and family-centered celebrationsJoin our free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallchurchministryRate, Review, & Follow Laurie on Apple Podcasts"I love Laurie and The Small Church Ministry Podcast!!"
In this Unchurched, I share a powerful story about how simple words can change history. Enjoy.
Divorce... it's nasty, it's costly, it's hurtful, and it's impacted everyone living in America in some way, shape, or form. Listen in as I share my discoveries and lessons learned from talking to some recent divorcees about what they would have changed. Much love, Joe
This one hit close to home... Listen in and find out why. Much love, Joe
There seems to be so many of us going through a tough or trying time right now. I get it. So in this episode, I share the 3 TRUTHS about God that have always brought me through the tough times (to greener pastures). Much love, Joe
Almost 25 years ago, we completed a research project that yielded the book “Surprising Insights from the Unchurched.” The study was a breakthrough in many ways, shattering long-held myths about how the unchurched felt about the church. What about now? Do the unchurched today have feelings similar to those of a generation ago? Thom and Sam reveal their new research. The post NEW Surprising Insights from the Unchurched (Releasing New Research) appeared first on Church Answers.
Yep! I had a dead animal from the Bible come into my house this weekend. You've got to hear this powerful message (and true story).
Well, I had my big "Aha" moment on why God allows hurricanes. Listen in as I share what happened to our family.
I recently received the question, "If God is good, why would he allow these hurricanes?" Here's my best take on the answer... Enjoy and much love.
Fear. We all have them. And the best thing we can do in life is face them head on. Listen in as I share a strategy I use to help face my fears.
Is this the most critical election ever? I don't think so. Here's why...
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​FOR LINKS to all our podcasts, visit the ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN TEACHING PODCAST DIRECTORY:ON APPLE PODCASTS APP: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/orthodox-christian-teaching-podcast-directory/id1680765527ON SPOTIFY APP: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ALQ9YkJ0hhZ20GGZv7MH9?si=hVv_aqKtSrypyTLr1YZQIQ
​FOR LINKS to all our podcasts, visit the ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN TEACHING PODCAST DIRECTORY:ON APPLE PODCASTS APP: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/orthodox-christian-teaching-podcast-directory/id1680765527ON SPOTIFY APP: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ALQ9YkJ0hhZ20GGZv7MH9?si=hVv_aqKtSrypyTLr1YZQIQ
Episode Overview:Â - Six Accountability Questions for Preachers- Hearing from the Holy Spirit- Sharing Your Testimony- Living Out Your Calling in Every Environment- Loving the Unchurched- A Call to ActionShow Notes & Resources: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-eE3vKRpsknoy0lefwCqh49ri1n_Jg98/view?usp=share_link
I've got some exciting stories to share! Listen in as we talk about God's divine connections in our lives. Definitely a must-listen episode.
Mailbag questions or topic suggestions? Text us!What does it take to spark a revival among junior high students? Join us as we kick off Season 4 of "Beyond the Event" and introduce our exciting new video format! We promise you'll laugh along with us as we share on-camera bloopers and reflect on an unforgettable summer filled with God's surprises. Our special guest, Joel Firebaugh, Next Gen Pastor at Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, shares his firsthand experiences of a low-key revival and the astounding number of baptisms from their CIY summer events. Caleb and Brad also discuss the thrill of registration for the upcoming 2025 events and the joy of witnessing so many transformations.Curious about what makes a junior high small group successful? Chandler Key's humorous question sets the stage as we tackle the concept of "wins" in youth ministry. Michael emphasizes the importance of celebrating small victories and simply being a presence in the lives of students. Joel adds his perspective from overseeing kids and student ministries, including a recent milestone of nearly 300 baptisms. Together, we highlight the creation of inclusive spaces for unchurched students at youth camps, sharing powerful stories of transformation and offering practical strategies to make church activities welcoming for all attendees.Finally, we explore how to engage diverse groups within church settings and celebrate the success of camp events that welcomed unchurched participants without any issues. Caleb provides insights on fostering inclusive environments, and Joel talks about the collaborative efforts between Crossroads and CIY in creating impactful camp experiences. We delve into the significance of camps in the church's ministry and share strategies to make these transformative experiences accessible to everyone. Wrapping up, we express our heartfelt appreciation to Joel for his invaluable contributions and Caleb for his co-hosting, reminding listeners to stay tuned for more exciting episodes.Be sure to check out the new video version of this podcast on YouTube!Want to connect with us? Here's how!www.ciy.comyoutube.com/christinyouth@christinyouth on InstagramCIY Community Facebook GroupEmail us at podcast@ciy.com
In this episode, I share some candid thoughts on faith vs blind faith (and why blind faith can be dangerous). Enjoy.
FOR LINKS to all our podcasts, visit the ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN TEACHING PODCAST DIRECTORY:​ON APPLE PODCASTS APP: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/orthodox-christian-teaching-podcast-directory/id1680765527​ON SPOTIFY APP: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ALQ9YkJ0hhZ20GGZv7MH9?si=hVv_aqKtSrypyTLr1YZQIQ
I woke up early (3:45am to be exact) yesterday and this was the first two things in my FB feed... Listen in as I share what I saw, what I learned, and how we can apply this in our lives.
I recently sat in a powerful meeting where the topic was pruning... This could take the form of God pruning things in your life (to bear more/better fruit) all the way to pruning bad relationships. Either way, this is a powerful message (and a fun challenge at the end).
I've got a sad story to share about a friend who let temptations get the best of him. We can all learn from this...
Wow! Just finished reading a fantastic book by Truett Cathy (Chick-fil-a founder) called "Wealth. Is It Worth It?" Listen in as I share some powerful stories along with lessons learned from the book.
I just had a very interesting conversation with a random worker in an airport... something we can all learn from. Plus, a big challenge for you at the end. Enjoy! Joe
This past week I went down a rabbit hole of "prophetic" videos that are predicting a massive economic collapse. And to be honest, I got caught up it (and caught up in some fear). Listen in as I share my candid thoughts...
This week's Unchurched is a replay from one of our most downloaded episodes from a long while back. Listen in to hear from author, speaker, and life-changer, Chris McAlister. Enjoy!
It's rare that I say this... But this could be the most impactful and important Unchurched episode I've shared yet. In just a few short weeks, the lessons I learned in the book I discuss in this episode have had a profound impact on my life. Enjoy.
This episode is all about affluenza - not being great at giving and generosity all the time. Listen in as I share some real-life struggles and stories around this (along with a challenge). Enjoy.
What's your vision for the future? How clear is it? How far are you willing to go to make it happen? Find out more in this awesome unchurched episode.
Did you know that they recently found the oldest known manuscript of Jesus's childhood? Pretty cool! But that's actually not the main focus of this week's message. Tune in to find out...
Do you know about the 6 steps to happiness, growth, freedom, health and wealth that Zig Ziglar made famous many years ago? I just re-heard the message this past weekend and it really hit home. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I recently received an email from someone I admire who shared one thing that could determine someone's success. The more I thought about it, I have to agree with him. So in this episode, I share what that is.
Did you know that loneliness is just as deadly as smoking 15 cigarettes per day? Yep! So listen in to hear about the loneliness pandemic along with how we can combat it for kids, parents, boomers, and seniors.