Real Life Theology Podcast

Creating Networks to Provide Synergy and Mentoring (feat. John Bliffen)

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Today’s episode will help us understand the importance of mentorship, teamwork, and strategic networking in planting Hispanic churches. It will also help us explore biblical examples and practical strategies to overcome unique challenges in these communities.
Bilingual Workshop on Mentoring and Networking in Ministry
 
Key Takeaways 
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:23 Bilingual Workshop Format
02:28 Biblical Examples of Teamwork and Mentoring
05:51 Paul's Relationships and Mentoring in Romans 16
08:20 Priscilla and Aquila: Tentmakers and Mentors
12:02 Paul's Networking and Mentoring Strategy
24:15 Latino Christian Movement's Mission and Vision
26:36 Importance of Networks and Regional Mentors
28:41 Interactive Discussion on Networks
33:50 Challenges in Hispanic Church Planting
34:12 Financial Sustainability and Fundraising
34:47 Cultural Differences in Giving
35:02 Extended Support for Hispanic Churches
35:29 Role of Latino Pastors
36:41 Success Stories in Church Planting
37:19 Diverse Hispanic Cultures
38:35 Bilingual and Multigenerational Challenges
39:29 Partnerships with Anglo Churches
42:50 Personal Experiences and Testimonies
45:05 Addressing the Needs of the Hispanic Community
53:55 Long-term Integration and Cultural Identity
59:24 Final Thoughts and Prayer
See below for a longer description: 
In this episode, John Bliffin, director of the Latino Christian Movement, leads a bilingual workshop on mentoring, teamwork, and networking for church planting in Hispanic communities. He shares insights from his 38 years as a missionary, diving into biblical examples of mentorship, such as the relationships in Romans 16 and Acts 18. John explores the importance of mentorship in Paul’s ministry and the principle of 2 Timothy 2:2, emphasizing the necessity of passing on teachings to others. He also discusses the Latino Christian Movement’s vision of building networks of Hispanic churches across the U.S. and highlights the unique challenges, including finances, cultural diversity, and bilingual needs. The episode concludes with practical strategies for overcoming these challenges, along with testimonies and reflections on fostering cultural integration in church planting efforts.

Preaching Towards Saving Faith (feat. Micah Odor and Dr. Billy Strother)

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Today’s episode will help us understand the urgency of disciple-making and transformational preaching, equipping us with practical strategies to foster a culture where faith is not just preached but multiplied.
Transformational Preaching and Disciple Making: Insights from Dr. Billy and Micah Odor
In this episode, Dr. Billy Strother from Central Christian College of the Bible and Micah Odor discuss the importance of integrating preaching with disciple making. Dr. Billy highlights the need for preaching to be text-based, Christocentric, doctrinal, storied, simple, and transformational. They explore the challenges of modern congregations, citing various statistics about beliefs, and the crucial role of continual engagement through mentorship and discipleship. Micah Oter shares practical insights on cultivating faith beyond the sermon, emphasizing the importance of personal investment and replicable disciple-making systems.
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Opening Prayer
03:44 Personal Journey and Theological Insights
10:10 Understanding Disciple Making
15:41 Current Socio-Political Biblical Landscape
21:36 Effective Biblical Preaching
31:12 The Power of Storytelling in Preaching
31:51 Simplicity in Sermon Delivery
32:27 The Importance of a Central Theme
33:52 Transformational Preaching
34:43 The Art of Persuasion in Sermons
36:59 Challenges in Evangelism and Discipleship
42:14 Mentorship and Follow-Up in Ministry
47:56 Investing in People Over Systems
51:10 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
See below for a longer description: 
This episode, dives into the challenges and urgency of disciple-making and transformational preaching in today’s churches. Micah Odor and Dr. Billy Strother explore the decline in biblical literacy, the need for Christ-centered, text-driven sermons, and the importance of equipping believers to mentor and replicate disciples. Through personal stories, research insights, and practical strategies, they challenge church leaders to move beyond systems and invest in people, fostering a culture where faith is not just preached but multiplied.

Renewed Vitality: Strategies for Church Leaders to Conquer Anxiety and Burnout in Changing Times (feat. Christian and Deb Flores)

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Today’s episode will help us recognize the root causes of burnout and equip us with practical routines, faith-based strategies, and mindset shifts to prevent it and lead with strength.
Conquering Burnout and Leading Powerfully: Insights from Christian and Deb Flores
In this episode, Christian and Deb Flores share their experiences and insights on conquering burnout and leading powerfully. They discuss the sources of burnout, such as stress, circumstances, and lack of resources, and offer practical solutions for managing stress, finding direction, and becoming resourceful. The session includes personal stories, practical advice, and audience interaction to help viewers understand and overcome burnout by establishing healthy routines, immersive learning, and continuous growth. Tune in to learn how you can transform your life and lead effectively by mastering stress management and embracing personal and professional development.
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
03:13 Understanding Burnout
07:38 Phases of Burnout
10:19 Personal Stories of Burnout
19:18 Managing Stress and Finding Solutions
23:33 The Win the Day Practice
31:47 The Power of Daily Rituals
33:20 The Importance of Self and Soul Care
34:17 Weekly Rhythms and Sabbath Practices
36:45 Family Mission Trips and Vacations
37:40 Avoiding Burnout and Managing Stress
42:28 The Role of Circumstances in Stress
42:58 The Importance of Direction and Speed
45:21 Immersive Learning and Overcoming Gaps
47:43 The Power of Clarity and Consistent Action
57:40 Resourcefulness Over Resources
See below for a longer description: 
In this episode, Christian and Deb DeFlores tackle burnout—how to overcome it and lead with strength. Christian opens with a prayer, setting a reflective tone before he and Deb share their backgrounds, highlighting their diverse work in church leadership, nonprofits, digital marketing, and coaching. Their firsthand experiences with high demands make them well-equipped to discuss burnout from multiple angles.
They identify three key burnout triggers: stress, circumstances, and resources—with stress coming from external pressures, circumstances being life’s misalignments, and resources reflecting a lack of support or tools to manage challenges. Rather than just treating symptoms, Christian emphasizes the need to address burnout at its root for lasting change.
A core takeaway is the “Win the Day” practice—starting the day with structured routines including physical activity, contemplation (prayer, scripture, journaling), and learning. This approach shifts the mind from anxiety to creativity and productivity, helping prevent burnout.
The discussion moves to goal-setting and clarity as antidotes to feeling stuck, a common side effect of burnout. Christian explains that having a clear direction reduces stress and that immersive learning—actively filling gaps in knowledge and skills—helps maintain forward momentum.
Christian also challenges the idea that burnout stems from a lack of resources, arguing that more often, it's about not leveraging existing resources effectively. He suggests that when used wisely, resources tend to multiply.
Closing with a Scriptural perspective, Christian references Romans 12:2, emphasizing the power of a renewed mind in transforming one’s life. The episode reinforces the idea that while stress is unavoidable, burnout is preventable through intentional routines, clear goals, and a mindful approach to spiritual and personal well-being.
This conversation blends practical strategies with personal stories and faith-based insights, offering listeners a roadmap to resilience, balance, and empowered leadership.

How Your Church Can Plant a Church (feat. Renew Movement)

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Today’s episode will help us understand how churches can move beyond growth to true multiplication by embracing disciple-making, overcoming common barriers, and leveraging collaborative church planting strategies.
Understanding the Renew Movement: Church Planting and Multiplication
Join Todd Wilson and Brett Andrews in an in-depth discussion about the Renew Movement and its mission to address issues in church planting and disciple making. Discover crucial findings from national studies showing less than 7% of U.S. churches are involved in church planting, and understand the five-level framework used to measure church multiplication. Learn about the six distinctives of Renew Movement, focusing on sound theology, disciple making, healthy support, accountability, reproduction, and collaboration. Understand the practical pathways for church planting and how churches can affiliate with Renew Movement to make immediate and impactful decisions. The session also introduces new opportunities for church planters and churches through multipliers' journey and MSO cohorts, aiming for robust disciple making and church multiplication.
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Overview
01:36 Current State of Church Planting
04:09 Framework for Measuring Church Growth
07:49 Challenges in Church Reproduction
10:13 Importance of Multiplication
27:38 Renew Movement's Mission and Distinctives
29:30 Renew Faith Statement: A Theological Distinctive
31:04 Reproduction: Planting Churches that Plant Churches
32:38 Immediate Involvement in Church Planting
35:50 Pathways for Planting: Collaborative, Parent, Pioneer, and Affiliate
38:32 Affiliation with Renew Movement
44:49 Legacy Churches: Revitalization and Rebirth
48:03 Multipliers Journey and MOS Cohorts
 
Renew Movement – Workshop Episode
In this episode, Todd Wilson, Brett Andrews, Patrick Bradley, and Dave Putman break down the Renew Movement’s approach to church planting and affiliation. They explore key strategies, current challenges, and how churches can shift from growth to true multiplication.
Todd Wilson kicks things off by outlining the session’s focus: understanding today’s church planting landscape, how to affiliate with Renew Movement, and tackling common obstacles. He notes that their audience includes both new church planters and existing churches seeking affiliation. A Q&A session follows, with lunch providing an opportunity for extended discussions.
The State of Church Planting
The team examines two national studies revealing troubling trends: fewer than 5% of U.S. churches actively make disciples, and only 7% are engaged in reproducing or planting new churches. Wilson stresses the connection between disciple-making and church planting—strong discipleship fuels sustainable church growth.
They introduce a five-level framework for church growth:
Level 1: Declining churches (35%)
Level 2: Plateaued churches
Level 3: Growing churches
Level 4: Reproducing churches
Level 5: Multiplying churches 
The challenge? Most churches never move beyond growth to reproduction, and true multiplication is rare.
Addition vs. Reproduction
Wilson clarifies a crucial distinction: adding services or campuses isn’t the same as planting new, self-sustaining churches. Many multisite models expand attendance but don’t create independent church-planting movements.
Brett Andrews tackles the biggest barriers to church reproduction—fear of scarcity (lack of resources) and fear of inadequacy (lack of wisdom). He encourages leaders to trust God’s provision and lean on collaborative church networks.
Six Core Distinctives of Renew Movement
Sound Theology – Ensuring doctrinal integrity in church planting.
Disciple-Making – Making disciples the foundation of church growth.
Healthy Support Systems – Offering coaching, training, and assessment.
Reproduction DNA – Embedding multiplication into new churches.
Accountability – Maintaining mission alignment and integrity.
Collaboration – Encouraging churches to work together in planting efforts.
Wilson highlights that every church is just one decision away from church planting, thanks to Renew’s collaborative model. He introduces four planting pathways—Collaborative, Parent, Pioneer, and Affiliate—each designed to meet different needs.
For struggling churches, Renew also provides a path for legacy churches to transition their resources and vision into new church plants.
Closing Thoughts
Wilson and his team emphasize the importance of theological alignment and accountability in the evolving church planting landscape. They invite attendees to engage with Renew by affiliating, joining learning sessions, and embracing collaborative planting strategies.
At its core, this episode underscores Renew Movement’s mission: moving churches beyond simple growth into true multiplication, equipping them to disciple and reach more people effectively.
Interested in more content from RENEW? Sign up for our newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ 
Today’s episode will help us understand how churches can move beyond growth to true multiplication by embracing disciple-making, overcoming common barriers, and leveraging collaborative church planting strategies.
Understanding the Renew Movement: Church Planting and Multiplication
Join Todd Wilson and Brett Andrews in an in-depth discussion about the Renew Movement and its mission to address issues in church planting and disciple making. Discover crucial findings from national studies showing less than 7% of U.S. churches are involved in church planting, and understand the five-level framework used to measure church multiplication. Learn about the six distinctives of Renew Movement, focusing on sound theology, disciple making, healthy support, accountability, reproduction, and collaboration. Understand the practical pathways for church planting and how churches can affiliate with Renew Movement to make immediate and impactful decisions. The session also introduces new opportunities for church planters and churches through multipliers' journey and MSO cohorts, aiming for robust disciple making and church multiplication.
Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early. 
https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/ 
Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Overview
01:36 Current State of Church Planting
04:09 Framework for Measuring Church Growth
07:49 Challenges in Church Reproduction
10:13 Importance of Multiplication
27:38 Renew Movement's Mission and Distinctives
29:30 Renew Faith Statement: A Theological Distinctive
31:04 Reproduction: Planting Churches that Plant Churches
32:38 Immediate Involvement in Church Planting
35:50 Pathways for Planting: Collaborative, Parent, Pioneer, and Affiliate
38:32 Affiliation with Renew Movement
44:49 Legacy Churches: Revitalization and Rebirth
48:03 Multipliers Journey and MOS Cohorts
 
Renew Movement – Workshop Episode
In this episode, Todd Wilson, Brett Andrews, Patrick Bradley, and Dave Putman break down the Renew Movement’s approach to church planting and affiliation. They explore key strategies, current challenges, and how churches can shift from growth to true multiplication.
Todd Wilson kicks things off by outlining the session’s focus: understanding today’s church planting landscape, how to affiliate with Renew Movement, and tackling common obstacles. He notes that their audience includes both new church planters and existing churches seeking affiliation. A Q&A session follows, with lunch providing an opportunity for extended discussions.
The State of Church Planting
The team examines two national studies revealing troubling trends: fewer than 5% of U.S. churches actively make disciples, and only 7% are engaged in reproducing or planting new churches. Wilson stresses the connection between disciple-making and church planting—strong discipleship fuels sustainable church growth.
They introduce a five-level framework for church growth:
Level 1: Declining churches (35%)
Level 2: Plateaued churches
Level 3: Growing churches
Level 4: Reproducing churches
Level 5: Multiplying churches 
The challenge? Most churches never move beyond growth to reproduction, and true multiplication is rare.
Addition vs. Reproduction
Wilson clarifies a crucial distinction: adding services or campuses isn’t the same as planting new, self-sustaining churches. Many multisite models expand attendance but don’t create independent church-planting movements.
Brett Andrews tackles the biggest barriers to church reproduction—fear of scarcity (lack of resources) and fear of inadequacy (lack of wisdom). He encourages leaders to trust God’s provision and lean on collaborative church networks.
Six Core Distinctives of Renew Movement
Sound Theology – Ensuring doctrinal integrity in church planting.
Disciple-Making – Making disciples the foundation of church growth.
Healthy Support Systems – Offering coaching, training, and assessment.
Reproduction DNA – Embedding multiplication into new churches.
Accountability – Maintaining mission alignment and integrity.
Collaboration – Encouraging churches to work together in planting efforts.
Wilson highlights that every church is just one decision away from church planting, thanks to Renew’s collaborative model. He introduces four planting pathways—Collaborative, Parent, Pioneer, and Affiliate—each designed to meet different needs.
For struggling churches, Renew also provides a path for legacy churches to transition their resources and vision into new church plants.
Closing Thoughts
Wilson and his team emphasize the importance of theological alignment and accountability in the evolving church planting landscape. They invite attendees to engage with Renew by affiliating, joining learning sessions, and embracing collaborative planting strategies.
At its core, this episode underscores Renew Movement’s mission: moving churches beyond simple growth into true multiplication, equipping them to disciple and reach more people effectively.

The Utter Necessity of a Theological Approach (feat. Chad Harrington)

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Today’s episode will help us explore the significance of embracing a theological approach to ministry over a utilitarian mindset, fostering a deeper connection with God and individuals we serve.
Shifting from Utility to Theology: Deepening Ministry with Personal Connections
In this session, we delve into the thought-provoking ideas of theologian Christos Janaras, exploring how Western culture's current pursuit of utility over truth impacts our churches and lives. We advocate for a theological approach to ministry focused on truth and personal connections, rather than utilitarian tactics. Through historical context, personal anecdotes, and a critique of modern ministry models, this video aims to inspire a shift towards a more meaningful and person-centered ministry. Join us to understand the profound importance of connecting deeply with God and others in a true ministry of love.
 
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction to Western Culture and Truth
01:04 Impact of Utility on Churches and Lives
01:44 Advocating for Theological Approach
02:19 Personal Background and Ministry Experience
03:23 Church Growth and Trends in America
05:46 Relational Discipleship and Utility in Ministry
07:15 Theological Approach vs. Pragmatic Approach
13:10 Loving People in Ministry
15:56 Critique of Utilitarian Ministry
21:58 Economic Capitalism in Ecclesiology
26:02 Understanding Needs vs. Wants in Ministry
26:14 A Personal Approach to Ministry
26:54 A Mission Trip Experience
28:15 The Importance of Personal Connection
28:46 Advocating for Personal Ministry
31:54 The Concept of 'I and Thou'
35:24 Objectification in Ministry
40:07 Theological Foundations of Personal Ministry
49:56 The Impact of Personal Ministry
51:33 The Pitfalls of Utilitarian Ministry
52:36 The Joy of Theological Ministry
– – – – 
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Building a Disciple-Making Culture in Your Church (feat. Brandon Guindon)

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Today’s episode will help us understand the challenges and rewards of building a disciple-making culture in a church, following the model of Jesus.
Building a Disciple-Making Culture in Your Church
In this heartfelt and motivating speech, a speaker from Real Life Ministries discusses the importance of building a disciple-making culture within the church. He recounts personal stories and challenges faced, including the recent loss of a close friend and mentor. Emphasizing the need to follow Jesus' model of discipleship, he explains how to create a sustainable, intentional, and reproducible process for making disciples. The speaker stresses the importance of establishing a culture rooted in biblical principles, building intentional relational environments, and fostering a commitment to disciple-making as a lifestyle. This talk provides both inspiration and practical advice for church leaders looking to navigate the complexities of modern ministry and remain true to their mission.
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:22 Honoring a Dear Friend
01:50 The Importance of Culture in Disciple Making
04:45 Personal Journey and Church Growth
08:25 Challenges and Triumphs in Church Planting
16:21 Building a Biblical Foundation for Disciple Making
23:37 Building on a Biblical Foundation
23:45 Intentional Lifestyle for Disciple Making
24:40 The Power of Multiplication
28:31 Creating Relational Environments
30:21 A Story of Transformation: Greg's Journey
37:28 Reproducible Processes in Disciple Making
42:09 The Challenges and Rewards of Disciple Making
– – – – 
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Navigating Politics as a Christian (feat. Donnie Williams)

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Get the Book – Following Jesus in Politically Politically Divided World: https://a.co/d/bVAq9KI
Today's episode will help us explore how Christians can navigate political conversations while staying true to their faith and Jesus' teachings in a deeply divided world.
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Navigating Politics as a Christian: Truth, Division, and the Call to Discipleship
In this episode, we delve into the challenge of political discourse in today's divided world from a Christian perspective. The speaker reflects on the civility of past political debates and contrasts it with the current climate of anger and misinformation. The discussion explores how Christians can navigate these conversations while staying true to their faith and the teachings of Christ. Key topics include the prevalence of false teachings, the importance of upholding a biblical worldview, and practical ways to engage in political conversations effectively. Using insights from various authors and apologists, the speaker provides a comprehensive guide for Christians to remain firm in their beliefs while extending grace in discussions. The talk concludes with practical steps for churches and individuals to foster unity and discernment within their communities.
Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction: Reflecting on Past Elections
01:03 The Shift in Political Discourse
01:57 Christian Engagement in Politics
02:42 Challenges Facing the Church
03:44 False Teachings and Biblical Worldview
06:50 Historical Context and Church Movements
10:09 Modern Church Strategies and Their Impact
11:37 Navigating Political Conversations as Christians
12:00 Eight Ways to Navigate an Election Year
30:02 Understanding the Role of Government
37:56 Conclusion: Engaging in Spiritual Conversations
 
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BONUS -- 'What Are You Waiting For?' by Josh Branham

Check out Josh Branham’s book on What Are You Waiting For?: A Young Leader's Guide to Changing the World: https://a.co/d/3AtqhWv
 
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Inspiring Young Leaders: An Interview with Josh Branham
Join us as we sit down with Josh Branham to discuss his transformative new book, 'What Are You Waiting For? A Young Leader's Guide to Changing the World.' In this episode, Josh dives into the challenges young people face today, from disillusionment to distractions, and the importance of dreaming big. He also shares personal anecdotes from his journey, insights into his pastoral work at Hill City Church in Boise, Idaho, and practical advice for current and future young leaders. Don't miss this insightful conversation on inspiring the next generation to step into their calling and change the world.
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction to Josh Branham and His Book
00:34 The Importance of Dreaming Big
01:40 Challenges Young People Face Today
03:47 Message to the Disillusioned Youth
06:51 Josh's Personal Journey
07:54 Misconceptions About Alaska and Australia
09:49 Hill City Church: A Unique Journey
13:05 Raising Up Young Leaders in Church Ministry
15:39 Premise of the Book: Start Today
20:33 Encouragement for the Disillusioned
In this episode, Josh Branham dives into his new book, What Are You Waiting For? A Young Leader's Guide to Changing the World. It’s all about inspiring young people to hold onto their big dreams and take action instead of waiting for the "right time."
Josh kicks things off by tackling why so many young people stop dreaming big—disillusionment and distraction. He shares how well-meaning advice from parents, teachers, and mentors often pushes kids toward "safe" career paths, causing them to abandon their passions. Add in the constant stream of media, and many end up living vicariously through others instead of pursuing their own purpose.
One moment that really hit home for Josh was his daughter’s kindergarten graduation, where kids boldly declared dreams of becoming pop stars, dancers, or veterinarians. Fast forward a few years, and those dreams often shrink under the weight of practicality and expectations. But Josh insists that young people are naturally wired to dream—and his book is about keeping that fire alive.
At its core, What Are You Waiting For? is for those who feel stuck, cynical, or unsure about their future. Josh’s message is clear: You were created for a purpose, and with faith, anything is possible. He especially wants to encourage young leaders to step up now, not later.
Josh shares his own story—from growing up in Fairbanks, Alaska, to moving to Australia at 16, which challenged him to grow in independence and faith. Later, at Boise Bible College, he felt called to ministry, leading to 15 years of experience as a youth pastor and eventually planting Hill City Church in Boise.
The conversation also covers Hill City’s evolution—from a satellite campus to an independent church, merging with an older congregation during the pandemic, and even launching a satellite campus of their own. Josh paints a vivid picture of their historic downtown Boise building, complete with stained glass and deep community roots.
Josh also highlights a growing challenge: fewer young people entering church ministry. He hopes his book will be a tool for church leaders to raise up the next generation, encouraging them to step into their calling now instead of waiting for “someday.” One key idea? Young people’s greatest strength can be recognizing their own weaknesses—it makes them open to learning and growth.
Ultimately, Josh hopes his book will inspire at least one person to step into ministry or intentional service. He sees it as a practical guide for youth groups, internships, and mentorship programs—not just to inspire but to equip.
As the episode wraps up, Josh speaks directly to young people feeling lost or discouraged. He’s been there and wants them to know—God has a plan for you. Don’t wait. Believe in your potential, take action, and trust that God will work through you. His final message? Hope, purpose, and the courage to step into the calling that’s already yours.

Theology of the New Heavens and New Earth, Part 2 (feat. Jeff Duerler)

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Today's episode will help us explore the theology of the new heavens and the new earth, examining the restoration of our relationship with God, our hearts, and the physical world itself.
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Theology of the New Heavens and New Earth: A Deep Dive into Hope and Restoration
Join us as we delve into a profound theological exploration of the new heavens and the new earth. Embracing themes of hope, restoration, and redemption, this session discusses how the promise of God's eternal kingdom strengthens, encourages, and instills joy amidst life's sorrows. Key topics include the day of the Lord, the dual nature of Jesus' coming, the renewing power of God's glory, and the complete restoration of our relationships, hearts, bodies, and even the physical earth. Highlighted by personal testimonies and inspired by works like John Eldredge's 'All Things New,' this teaching offers an insightful and uplifting perspective on our ultimate destiny as believers.
Key Takeaways 
00:00 Opening Prayer and Reflection
03:01 Introduction to Theology of New Heavens and New Earth
03:12 Historical Context and Prophetic Expectations
05:13 The Already and Not Yet Kingdom
05:41 Envisioning the New Heavens and New Earth
07:37 Personal Reflections and Inspirations
09:46 Restoration of Relationship with God
15:57 Restoration of Our Hearts
20:55 New Heavenly Bodies
28:04 Exploring Jesus' Post-Resurrection Encounters
28:58 The Nature of Jesus' Resurrected Body
29:59 The Significance of Scars and Healing
34:12 Supernatural Aspects of Resurrected Bodies
36:02 The Role of Clothing in Resurrection
38:48 The New Earth: A Restored Paradise
44:32 The Restoration of Society and Nations
52:12 Living with Eternal Hope and Purpose
 
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Theology of the New Heavens and New Earth, Part 1 (feat. Jeff Duerler)

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Today's episode will help us grasp the profound significance of the New Heavens and the New Earth, offering hope and motivation through a detailed exploration of biblical teachings and personal reflections.
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Exploring the New Heavens and the New Earth: A Deep Dive into Christian Eschatology
This episode dives into the profound theological concept of the New Heavens and the New Earth, exploring its biblical foundations and its significance in Christian faith. The speaker passionately discusses how this doctrine is central to understanding the ultimate state of redeemed humanity and its implications for our lives today. Through personal anecdotes and scriptural analysis, viewers are encouraged to find hope and motivation to endure life's hardships. The discussion covers systematic theology, eschatology, and the intrinsic hope tied to the Christian belief in the restoration of all things. Viewers will gain insights into the vibrant, eternal future promised in the scriptures and how it shapes our present existence.
Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Session Overview
00:55 Preparing Our Hearts for God's Word
01:50 Renew's Mission and Theological Foundation
02:50 Exploring the New Heavens and the New Earth
08:31 The Gospel Story and Human Questions
12:48 The Importance of Future Hope
20:53 Biblical References to the New Heavens and the New Earth
24:51 Jesus' Teachings on the New Heavens and the New Earth
30:39 Ancient Prophecies and Hebrew Worldview
32:18 The Day of the Lord: Judgment and Salvation
36:10 The Already-Not-Yet Tension
38:36 Utopian Imagery from Isaiah
39:25 Prayers for Grief and Hope
40:36 The New Heavens and the New Earth
52:07 Philosophical Reflections on Redemption
55:18 The Tree of Knowledge and Good and Evil
59:18 Concluding Thoughts and Doxology
 
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Your Identity in Christ (feat. Anthony Walker & Michelle Eagle)

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Today’s episode will help us understand the significance of grounding our identity in Christ and how it impacts our daily lives and roles.
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Discovering Your True Identity in Christ | Episode with Michelle Eagle & Anthony Walker
In this episode, Michelle Eagle and Anthony Walker discuss their journey and motivation behind writing a new book focused on Christian identity. As leaders in their respective ministries, they share the importance of understanding one's true identity in Christ and the challenges faced when conventional societal identities are disrupted. They highlight personal stories, biblical teachings, and practical advice on how to build solid relationships and disciple others. This enlightening discussion also touches on handling modern identity issues, including race and sexuality, as well as the crucial role of spiritual warfare in preserving one's identity and relationship with God. Ideal for anyone looking to deepen their faith and discover their purpose in Christ.
Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:16 The Importance of Identity
03:58 Challenges in Understanding Identity
05:47 Identity in Christ vs. Worldly Identities
10:35 Personal Stories and Struggles
13:56 Overcoming Identity Crisis
21:02 Personality and Identity
23:03 Embracing Failure and Taking Risks
24:06 Moses: A Story of Identity Conflict
25:39 Choosing a Godly Identity
27:45 The Importance of Relational Discipleship
29:24 Navigating Identity in a Divided World
32:58 Building Relationships Across Differences
37:08 The Power of Unity in Christ
42:58 Addressing Identity Issues in Youth
48:12 Spiritual Warfare and Identity
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How to Interpret the Bible (feat. Orpheus Heyward)

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Today’s episode will help us navigate the complexities of biblical interpretation and establish a robust hermeneutical method.
Mastering Biblical Interpretation: A Practical Guide to Hermeneutics
In this insightful session, we delve into the essential principles of hermeneutics, focusing on a productive and practical methodology to interpret scripture effectively. From understanding the importance of context to exploring the evolution of interpretive processes throughout history, this video emphasizes the significance of proper hermeneutical practices to foster unity in Christian theology. The session also includes valuable exercises, such as textual comparison and word studies, to illustrate how one can accurately handle the Word of God. Numerous examples, including a detailed analysis of common theological debates, highlight the importance of context and genre in biblical interpretation. This video is a must-watch for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of scripture and enhance their interpretive skills.
 
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Session Goals
01:56 Historical Development of Hermeneutics
05:40 Reformation and New Hermeneutic
08:59 Authorial Intent and Historical-Grammatical Method
12:26 Importance of Context in Interpretation
21:17 Textual Comparison for Accurate Interpretation
30:49 Understanding Context in Biblical Interpretation
32:36 The Importance of Genre in Scripture
34:27 Misinterpretations and Their Consequences
42:14 Tools and Techniques for Word Studies
48:30 Formulating the Meaning of Verses
50:55 Case Study: The Doctrine of Christ
55:17 Q&A and Final Thoughts
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