When Leaders Disagree (feat. Jeff Faull)

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Today’s episode will teach us how to build team unity among church leaders. We will discuss best practices for the beautiful but messy work of building team unity and relational health and alignment around our mission of discipleship.
Navigating Leadership Unity in the Church
Join us in this engaging workshop led by a board member from E2 Ministries on the topic of leadership unity within the church. Originally slated to be conducted by Dr. Gary Johnson, this session delves into the complexities and messiness of maintaining unity among church leaders. Discover valuable insights on humility, practicing biblical conflict resolution, understanding the emotional intelligence among leaders, and cultivating a culture of openness and timely confrontation. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of establishing non-negotiables, knowing the personality 'bents' of fellow leaders, and the precious, yet often messy, blessing of leadership unity. Whether you are a church leader or interested in effective church management, this workshop provides practical bullet points and principles to foster a unified leadership that aligns with Christ’s discipleship mission.
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Workshop Overview
04:38 The Messiness of Unity
06:49 Biblical Examples of Messy but Precious Leadership
07:56 The Blessing of Leadership Unity
11:10 Handling Disagreements with Humility
12:56 Practicing Biblical Conflict Resolution
16:08 Establishing Conflict Plumb Lines
24:12 Increasing Emotional Intelligence
33:25 The Importance of Presentation
34:29 Authentic Apologies and Humility
38:28 Keeping Disagreements Within Meetings
39:28 Guarding Against Spouse Proxy
45:13 Fighting Fair and Seeking Mediation
47:54 Celebrating Unity and Final Thoughts
See below for a longer description:
In this episode, Jeff Faull leads a workshop for church leaders on navigating disagreements within leadership teams.
Jeff concludes with practical tips on praying over decisions, identifying high-conflict issues early, and seeking mediation when necessary. He reaffirms the value of unity in leadership, returning to the theme of "good, messy, blessed" unity from Psalm 133. The session ends with a Q&A, where Jeff addresses questions on balancing humility with fortitude and making tough calls on when to work through conflicts or part ways.
In short, Jeff Faull’s workshop provides a practical, faith-centered roadmap for handling disagreements, fostering unity, and staying focused on the mission.
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Dangers of Progressivism (feat. Jim Dalrymple)

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Today’s episode will help us recognize and address the subtle dangers of progressive Christianity while strengthening our faith through clear theology and intentional discipleship.
Navigating Progressive Christianity: Insights and Warnings for Modern Believers
In this comprehensive episode, we explore the intersection of progressive Christianity and contemporary cultural philosophies, drawing lessons from Paul's letters to Timothy. Participants will gain insights into diagnosing false teachings, the influence of modern social theories, and the importance of maintaining a solid theological foundation. Through metaphors like health and construction, this discussion contrasts authentic biblical teachings with the 'comfort gospel' and celebrity culture in the church. The episode underscores the transformative power of true faithfulness versus flashiness and warns against the dangers of syncretism observed in different cultural contexts. Episodes include practical exercises, historical insights, and references to prominent figures like Alyssa Childers. Join us to navigate the challenges posed by progressive Christianity and ensure a rooted and substantive faith.
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Workshop Overview
00:18 Metaphors for Understanding Progressive Christianity
01:51 Prayer and Biblical Lens for Diagnosing False Teaching
02:39 Classroom Insights on False Teachers
05:42 Speculations vs. Stewardship
07:09 False Teachings and Modern Contexts
11:07 Paul's Teachings on False Doctrine
14:51 Syncretism and Progressive Theology
26:19 Diagnosing Modern Progressive Theology
29:10 Critiquing Higher Criticism and Theological Bias
30:23 The Influence of Postmodernism and Neo-Marxism
31:43 Navigating Theological Fluidity and Individualism
34:21 Culture as Canon and the Role of Cancel Culture
36:47 The Heart as Guide and the Problem with Self-Reliance
38:56 Tolerance, Activism, and Deconstruction
42:33 Caution in Confronting Sin and Overreaction
52:08 The Importance of Discipleship and Discipline
56:25 Final Thoughts and Prayer
See below for a longer description:
This episode features a workshop by Jim Dalrymple on the challenges of progressivism in Christianity. Dalrymple begins by acknowledging the post-lunch time slot and sets a welcoming tone. He explores the difficulties of defining and diagnosing progressivism, using two metaphors from Paul’s letters to Timothy: health and homebuilding.
Dalrymple stresses the need for clear theological definitions, comparing progressive Christianity to medical diagnostics and home reconstruction. He opens with prayer, focusing on spiritual resilience in a changing society.
Drawing from his experience teaching 1 Timothy and 2 Timothy at Ozark Christian College, Dalrymple uses a visual metaphor—like a detective's crime board—to highlight the traits of false teachers and link them to today’s progressive Christianity. He examines 1 Timothy 1:3-7, contrasting speculation with stewardship, and warns against modern movements like the health and wealth gospel and the comfort gospel, which mirror historical challenges faced by the church.
Dalrymple then shifts to the metaphor of homebuilding, cautioning against deconstructing faith without rebuilding on biblical foundations. He critiques the tendency to replace core doctrines with speculative or culturally convenient ideas.
He addresses the delicate balance between gentleness and confrontation when responding to false teachings, and observes how progressive Christianity often seeks recognition, power, and controversy, drawing examples from past and present trends.
Next, Dalrymple discusses the broader cultural influences—humanism, skepticism, Darwinism, naturalism, and postmodernism—that have shaped progressive theology, arguing that these secular philosophies have diluted Christian teachings.
He identifies key traits of progressive Christianity: elevating culture as the ultimate authority, following subjective feelings, prioritizing tolerance above all else, and viewing activism as worship. He critiques the lack of clear doctrinal boundaries in the movement.
Dalrymple examines the motivations behind progressive beliefs, including cultural pressures, personal hurts, and the desire for platforms or pleasure, and warns against the deliberate or unintentional distortion of traditional theology.
He closes with practical advice, urging church leaders to focus on intentional discipleship and proper church discipline to safeguard doctrinal purity and restore those led astray by false teachings.
In summary, this workshop calls for vigilance in addressing the subtle dangers of progressive Christianity, combining scriptural analysis with practical steps for protecting and nurturing healthy church communities.
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How do we Think Well About the World Around Us?

The Disciples Mind: https://renew.org/product/the-disciples-mind-thinking-like-a-disciple-of-jesus/ 
Today’s episode will help us thoughtfully engage with culture by combining biblical wisdom, creativity, and a balanced approach to grace and truth.
Engaging Culture Thoughtfully: Balancing Faith and Modern Challenges
Join us in this insightful episode as we delve into the complex ways Christians can thoughtfully engage with culture. Spearheaded by Chad Ragsdale and Daniel McCoy, the discussion brings forth historical and biblical perspectives on navigating cultural tensions. Explore themes of accommodation, hostility, isolation, and counter-culture, and get a deeper understanding of Christian postures like quietism, activism, and evangelism. Based on 1 Peter 2:11-12, learn about living as exemplary citizens, balancing grace and truth, compassion and courage, and practicing creative, effective discipleship. Through personal anecdotes and practical applications, this episode provides valuable insights for balancing ethical issues, avoiding false dichotomies, and fostering unity in a fragmented world. Engage with us to think well, act compassionately, and lead courageously in today’s society.
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Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:46 Framing the Discussion: Loving God with Our Minds
02:52 Cultural Matrix: Engaging with the World
06:44 Postures vs. Gestures: Contextual Approaches
10:17 Conflict and Cultural Engagement
20:23 Daniel McCoy's Perspective
21:48 Devil vs. God: Destruction and Unity
28:39 The Essence of Creativity
29:39 Church Unity and the Shema
30:32 The Beauty of Church Diversity
31:21 The Central Preposition of Christmas
32:36 Renew.org: Bridging Theology and Discipleship
33:17 Creativity in Addressing Cultural Issues
43:25 Balancing Grace and Truth
48:47 Evangelicalism and Activism
54:36 Avoiding False Dichotomies
55:28 Interactive Q&A Session
See below for a longer description:
In this episode, Chad Ragsdale, academic dean and professor at Ozark Christian College, and Daniel McCoy, editorial director for Renew.org, discuss their co-authored book, which tackles how disciples can love God with their minds and engage culture thoughtfully, grounded in biblical wisdom.
Chad kicks off the session by introducing himself and thanking the audience. He sets the stage for the conversation: how followers of Jesus can think critically and engage effectively with the world around them. He introduces a framework called the "cultural matrix," explaining how Christians approach culture along two axes: being "in the world" but "not of the world."
Ragsdale describes different postures: accommodation (adjusting to culture) and hostility (opposing culture), noting both are still rooted within the world. He contrasts these with anti-culture (like the Amish, who isolate) and counter-culture (those who create alternative communities). These stances aren’t wrong on their own but become problematic when they turn into rigid, inflexible approaches.
Most people, Ragsdale says, fall somewhere between these extremes, combining approaches like quietism (accommodation + isolation), activism (counter-culture + hostility), and evangelism (counter-culture + accommodation). The key is flexibility—adapting to context while maintaining biblical balance, avoiding a one-size-fits-all mentality.
Daniel McCoy then steps in, emphasizing the importance of creating a better culture as part of the Christian mission. He contrasts the destructive nature of the devil with God's creativity, which restores and unites. Creativity, McCoy explains, reflects God’s work, combining virtues like courage and compassion to transcend the binary choices the world offers. He uses examples like parenting and church worship to show how Christians can integrate traditional and contemporary elements to build something more beautiful.
During the Q&A, Ragsdale and McCoy address how these cultural postures relate to apologetics and the balance of grace and truth. Ragsdale emphasizes that apologetics should focus on addressing deeper hurts rather than simply winning arguments. He also stresses the need for fully integrating both grace and truth, sharing personal stories to illustrate how to live out these principles.
They also touch on trends in evangelicalism, noting how younger Christians often lean towards activism. Ragsdale cautions against tribalism, urging ongoing self-examination and thoughtful engagement instead of falling into divisive either-or thinking.
In closing, Ragsdale encourages the audience to keep asking questions, challenging their own views and others', and pursuing a more nuanced understanding of biblical truth.
In summary, this episode offers practical wisdom for Christians on engaging culture thoughtfully and biblically, urging a balance of grace and truth, creativity, and a spirit of inquiry.
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Future Challenges for Authentic Disciples (feat. Mike Williams)

Today’s episode will help us understand how to better support young Christians by fostering authentic community, prioritizing mental health, and embracing deep spiritual engagement in the face of modern cultural shifts.
Mike Williams, President of Harding University, talks about why it's crucial to support today's young generation in their faith journey. Joined by Dr. Monty Cox and Dr. Jason Darden, they delve into the spiritual and psychological challenges young Christians face. They highlight the importance of genuine community, mental health awareness, and deep spiritual involvement. The discussion also covers effective disciple-making strategies like spiritual training and forming close-knit, challenging small groups. Overall, they stress the need for the church to adapt to today's culture while remaining a powerful force for Christian transformation.
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Leading Your Church in Prayer and Fasting (feat. Dave & Sydney Clayton)

Transforming a Church Through Prayer and Fasting: A Journey of Faith and Revival
Today’s episode will help us understand how integrating prayer and fasting into church ministry can drive deep spiritual transformation and enhance discipleship, based on the experiences and practical advice of Dave and Sydney Clayton.
In this video, a pastor shares the transformative 10-year journey of his Nashville church as they embrace the disciplines of prayer and fasting. From humble beginnings of non-praying leaders to a citywide movement involving hundreds of churches, this breakout session dives deep into practical steps, biblical foundations, and inspirational stories. The session also underscores the importance of preparation, community encouragement, and commitment to sustained prayer and fasting, aiming for spiritual breakthroughs and cultural transformation.
 
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Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Breakout Class
01:06 The Importance of Prayer and Fasting
01:25 Personal Journey and Conviction
06:27 Transformative Experiences in Africa
09:46 Implementing Prayer and Fasting in the Church
15:26 City-Wide Prayer and Fasting Initiatives
20:26 The Why Behind Prayer and Fasting
28:30 Practical Aspects of Fasting
30:52 Different Types of Fasting
31:23 The Grace in Fasting
32:03 The Daniel Fast
32:53 Soul Fasting: Beyond Food
33:47 The Purpose of Fasting
34:22 Preparing for a Fast
35:53 Involving the Family in Fasting
40:19 Encouragement During the Fast
43:23 Celebrating the End of a Fast
44:32 Discernment and Testimonies
45:24 Starting Small and Sticking With It
46:34 The Power of Prayer
51:24 Resources and Final Thoughts
 
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See below for a more comprehensive discussion of this topic: 
In this episode, Dave and Sydney Clayton discuss the crucial role of prayer and fasting in church ministry, focusing on its impact on spiritual transformation and discipleship. This session, part of a breakout class, aims to provide practical insights for church communities.
Dave kicks off by expressing his enthusiasm for the session, highlighting the value of these more intimate, hands-on discussions. He explains that prayer and fasting are essential to discipleship, comparing them to the "tip of the spear" in disciple-making, essential for deep spiritual growth and transformation.
He shares his journey, starting with his early ministry in downtown Nashville, where he recognized the need to break through cultural Christianity. A vision from God, depicting prayer and fasting as an arrow piercing the hard soil of the city, became the foundation for his church’s focus on these practices over the past decade.
Sydney then leads the group in prayer, asking the Spirit to guide their discussion. She recalls a pivotal moment for their church when a quote from a prayer book emphasized the urgent need for prayer, sparking a transformation from a sermon-focused congregation to an active praying community.
Dave and Sydney talk about the challenges they faced in building a prayer-focused culture, noting that persistence and small, incremental steps made a difference over time. They began with brief prayer sessions during Sunday services and gradually introduced longer periods of prayer and fasting throughout the year. Now, their church regularly holds weekly prayer meetings, prayer fasts, all-night prayer sessions, and annual seasons of intensified prayer and fasting.
A key turning point in their journey was a trip to Africa, where they witnessed the power of corporate prayer and fasting, inspiring them to deeply embed these practices in their church community.
 
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Leading a Mega-Church through LGBTQ Issues (feat. Clayton Hentzel)

Leading a Megachurch Through LGBTQ and Other Issues
In today’s episode we will learn from Clayton Hentzel, the lead preacher who recently led a church through complex and controversial issues, particularly LGBTQ topics, by emphasizing the importance of clarity, thorough preparation, and courageous communication of biblical truth. 
In this episode, a senior pastor from The Crossing shares his experiences and strategies for addressing controversial topics like LGBTQ issues, abortion, and politics in a megachurch setting. With over two decades at the church and two years as senior pastor, he discusses the importance of preaching on contentious subjects, ensuring church alignment, and providing clear guidance to congregation members. He offers five reasons to preach on controversial issues, steps for sermon series preparation, and practical tips for effective communication and church unity.
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Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:34 The Importance of Addressing Controversial Topics
02:15 Five Reasons to Preach on LGBTQ Issues
03:18 Challenges and Misconceptions in Preaching
08:17 Steps to Prepare for a Sermon Series
09:20 Aligning Church Leadership and Staff
15:20 Practical Tips for Effective Communication
29:55 Conclusion and Recap
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See below for a more comprehensive discussion of this topic: 
In this episode, Clayton Hentzel shares his approach to guiding a megachurch through tough and often controversial issues, with a focus on LGBTQ topics. He highlights the need for clarity, preparation, and courage when addressing sensitive subjects from the pulpit, emphasizing that The Crossing is committed to sharing gospel truth in every area of life.
Clayton kicks off the discussion with a 30-minute presentation followed by a Q&A session, ensuring questions are handled privately to protect those he pastors. He talks about his background and the church's annual practice of tackling difficult topics, stressing that truth should never be sacrificed for growth. Past sermons have covered mental health and abortion, with future ones planned on politics and giving. This year, they completed a five-week series titled "Messy," which addressed various provocative issues, including abortion, reinforcing the idea that no subject should be off-limits in church.
He explains that addressing these issues is crucial because the congregation is already exposed to conflicting worldviews through media and misleading theological arguments. Clayton insists the church must provide biblically sound counter-arguments to protect their congregation’s understanding and faith.
Clayton outlines his preparation process for these sermon series, detailing how he and his church leadership ensure they are theologically aligned. This includes extensive research, historical context, and understanding cultural arguments, with comprehensive preparation allowing the entire church staff to be on the same page.
He offers practical tips for delivering difficult messages, such as maintaining a "no emails and no applause" policy during the series, using timestamps in sermons for context, and prioritizing teaching over preaching to build a solid foundation. Clarity is crucial, and the church’s stances should be clear and unambiguous to avoid multiple interpretations.
Finally, Clayton emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations for congregants and preparing them for how the church will address future topics, such as politics, with definitive positions.
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Gen Z On Worship

Gen Z on Worship: (feat. Joel Wilson & Will Phillips)
Are you a Gen Z member passionate about worship and looking for ways to make your worship experience truly authentic and impactful? In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, host Regan Grace Gibbs is joined by Joel Wilson and Will Phillips to dive deep into the conversation on worship within the church.
Join us as we explore these topics and more, offering insights and practical advice from fellow Gen Z worship leaders. Whether you're on stage or behind the scenes, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you enhance your worship experience and lead with authenticity.
Don't miss out! Share this episode and join in on the conversation as we seek God's wisdom and guidance.
In this episode, host Regan Grace Gibbs, along with guests Joel Wilson and Will, explore worship within the church. They discuss the dynamics between contemporary and traditional worship styles, addressing leadership challenges, heart posture, and accountability. They also emphasize the importance of personal devotion and spiritual nourishment, whether serving on stage or behind the scenes. This episode offers insights into worship from a Gen Z perspective.
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Watch The Video: https://youtu.be/nslIy43iIBA
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Host Background
00:53 Meet the Guests: Joel and Will
01:28 Discussing Worship Roles and Instruments
02:38 Favorite Music Artists
05:05 Hot Takes on Taylor Swift
10:08 Defining Worship in Scripture
26:56 Creative Expression in Worship
27:55 Balancing Performance and Heart Posture
29:18 Overcoming Technical Challenges
31:27 Generational Perspectives on Worship
39:37 Volunteer Commitment and Sacrifice
41:12 Accountability and Expectations for Worship Leaders
48:06 Navigating Difficult Conversations
57:05 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections
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Other podcasts by RENEW.org:
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– Step into Scripture: https://stepintoscripture.podbean.com/ 
Check out RENEW.org for resources on theology and disciple making. 
See below for a longer description:
In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, titled "Gen Z on Worship," host Regan Grace Gibbs, Student Ministry Director at Ecclesia Christian Church, dives into worship with guests Joel Wilson and Will Phillips. Joel is the Minister of Music at Ecclesia, and Will is the Worship Pastor at the Rock Church Conway Campus. They explore worship from a Gen Z perspective.
Regan introduces herself and the "Gen Z On" series, where she interviews Gen Z church members on important faith topics. Today’s focus is worship and its resonance with Gen Z. Joel and Will introduce themselves, sharing their roles and musical journeys.
Joel's Role: Minister of Music at Ecclesia, playing acoustic guitar and singing. Will's Role: Worship Pastor at the Rock Church, playing keys and acoustic guitar, aspiring to learn the ukulele.
They discuss their musical talents and favorite artists, reflecting their diverse tastes. The conversation then shifts to a deeper discussion on worship.
Key Points:
Scriptural Basis: Will refers to Romans, emphasizing living as a sacrifice as the true worship. They agree that worship extends beyond music to all acts of service for God.
Service as Worship: Joel highlights that roles like greeting or working at the coffee bar are also worship when done with the right heart posture.
Personal Devotion: Will stresses the importance of personal time with God, arguing that spiritual well-being is a personal responsibility.
Modern vs. Traditional Worship: They compare traditional pew settings with contemporary high-production services, agreeing that authenticity comes from the heart.
Creative Expression vs. Performance: They emphasize that worship should glorify God, and anything distracting from that should be reassessed.
Accountability: They discuss the importance of clear guidelines and relational equity within worship teams to ensure corrections are made with love and understanding.
The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to continue exploring and discussing worship, emphasizing the value of these conversations for growth.
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Gen Z On Deconstructing

Gen Z on Deconstruction (feat. Bailey Thompson) 
In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, host Reagan Grace Gibbs, the student ministry director at Ekklesia Christian Church, discusses the urgent topic of faith deconstruction within Gen Z audiences. Joined by Bailey Thompson, they dive into the statistics showing the rise in religious disaffiliation among Millennials and Gen Z, the concept of deconstruction and reconstruction from a biblical perspective, and the cultural impact of influencers on faith. They emphasize the importance of discipleship, being actively involved in a local church, and the crucial role of church leaders in guiding and supporting Gen Z. Follow Reagan on Social Media @thereagangrace
Visit RENEW.org to view books, articles, and more: https://renew.org/ 
Watch the Video: https://youtu.be/TpZu2xehddc 
Key Takeaways 
00:00 Introduction and Host Background
05:30 Celebrity Influence on Faith
10:37 The Role of Church Leaders in Supporting Gen Z
13:01 The Importance of Personal Relationships in Ministry
19:12 Challenges and Solutions for Engaging Gen Z in Church
24:15 The Importance of Studying the Bible
28:54 The Impact of Social Media on Faith
35:27 Engaging with Gen Z in Ministry
37:34 Concluding Thoughts and Prayer
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Other podcasts by RENEW.org:
– Scripture in Black and White: https://scriptureinblackandwhite.podbean.com/ – Step into Scripture: https://stepintoscripture.podbean.com/ 
Check out RENEW.org for resources on theology and disciple making. 
See below for a longer description:In this episode, Reagan introduces Bailey, a worship leader and singer-songwriter from Ekklesia Christian Church. Together, they dive deep into the topic of Gen Z and their relationship with faith, particularly focusing on deconstruction and reconstruction of beliefs. Reagan highlights alarming statistics pointing to Gen Z as the least religious generation in American history. She references Ryan Burge’s research, showing a significant increase in the number of millennials and Gen Z individuals with zero religious affiliation. Bailey and Reagan discuss these trends and the potential reasons behind them, such as less parental influence on religious upbringing. The conversation covers the concept of deconstruction, contrasting its healthy and harmful forms. Reagan explains how Jesus exemplified healthy deconstruction by confronting the false teachings and hypocrisy of religious leaders. In contrast, Reagan and Bailey discuss the modern trend of deconstruction, where individuals systematically dismantle and often reject their faith due to various reasons, including church hurt.
Bailey brings in insights from Lisa Childers, who defines deconstruction as a popular trend among millennial and Gen Z Christians. They also touch on how celebrities openly share their deconstruction journeys, influencing their young followers' faith decisions. Reagan emphasizes the crucial role of church leaders in supporting and guiding Gen Z through these processes, rather than just attacking them. Reagan shares personal anecdotes about the importance of church community and mentorship in her faith journey. She recounts how church leaders, including her parents and student ministry leaders, have been foundational in her spiritual growth. This leads to a discussion on the importance of discipleship and being actively involved in a local church, both for personal growth and to foster a supportive faith community for Gen Z.
Reagan and Bailey stress that students need consistent biblical study and community involvement to thrive spiritually. Reagan talks about her church's emphasis on discipleship, mentioning their multi-generational vision and various ministries that cater to different age groups. Bailey adds examples of how older generations in the church mentor younger members, creating a nurturing environment for spiritual growth. They also address the challenges and misconceptions about student ministry, highlighting the importance of building authentic relationships with students. Both Reagan and Bailey believe that genuine discipleship involves walking with students through their spiritual journeys, providing guidance and support along the way.
Wrapping up the episode, Reagan discusses the powerful impact of prayer and how it can transform lives. Bailey closes with a heartfelt prayer for Gen Z, asking for God’s guidance and blessing over them. She prays for leaders to be equipped to steward these young hearts well, fostering safe spaces for meaningful conversations and growth. Tune in to this insightful episode to understand more about the spiritual dynamics affecting Gen Z and how to approach the topics of deconstruction and reconstruction of faith. Follow Reagan on all her social media platforms to stay updated on future episodes and engaging discussions. Until next time be blessed.#GenZ #RealLifeTheology #GenZOnFaith #Deconstruction  #Reconstruction
 
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Gen Z On Relationships

Gen Z on Relationships
Interested in hearing a conversation about both relationships and friendships from a Gen Z Perspective? Well then this episode is for you. Reagan Grace and her husband Manny answer questions like the following:
What does a Christ-centered relationship look like?How do you approach forgiveness and move past hurt in relationships? What are your biggest suggestions for finding a good Godly relationship? How can you combat temptations in relationships when you are saving yourself for Marriage? 
Have more questions about this topic? → Please like, subscribe, and comment on this episode. You can also reach out to Reagan on social media @thereagangrace
Watch the Video:
Key Takeaways
00:00 Introduction to the new series GEN Z ON
01:31 Romantic Relationships: A Biblical Perspective
03:51 The Role of Love and Sacrifice in Relationships
10:41 Cultural Influences on Modern Relationships
13:46 Navigating Privacy and Publicity in Relationships
19:02 Q&A: Addressing Your Relationship Concerns
20:27 Navigating Secular Culture and Prayer
21:51 Christ-Centered Relationships: Expectations vs. Reality
23:52 The Purpose of Christian Dating and Marriage
30:22 Forgiveness and Communication in Relationships
33:00 Finding a Godly Relationship
34:43 Combating Temptations and Understanding Purity
38:21 The Importance of Friendships and Accountability
47:32 Closing Thoughts and Prayer
 
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Check out RENEW.org for resources on theology and disciple-making. 
See below for a longer description:
Gen Z and Relationships!
In this kick of episode of the Real Life Theology Podcast’s new series “GEN Z ON” , host Reagan Grace Gibbs, along with her husband Manny Gibbs, dive into the complexities of relationships for Gen Z from a biblical perspective. They discuss romantic relationships, friendships, and the role of faith and accountability. Covering topics such as the importance of Christ-centered relationships, combating temptations, and the significance of forgiveness, this conversation is enriched with scripture and personal insights. Join Reagan and Manny as they share their journey, answer audience questions, and provide valuable advice for young Christians navigating their faith and relationships.
If you would like to follow Reagan on social media search @thereagangrace on any social platform. 
This series geared towards a Gen Z audience is a series where Reagan interviews different members of Gen Z in the church to discuss urgent topics of faith. Today's episode focuses on relationships, both romantic and platonic, and features a special co-host, Reagan's husband, Manny Gibbs. Manny serves in the student ministry and is also pursuing a medical career. The episode begins by addressing why relationships were highly requested by Reagan's Instagram followers. They go into the importance of discussing romantic and friendship dynamics separately, offering insights and experiences from their own relationship. Reagan opens with Song of Solomon 8:7, highlighting the unquenchable nature of love. Key points include discussing their young marriage at 18 and the pressures it brought, as well as the misconception of finding perfect love in a human partner versus the eternal and fulfilling love of Jesus.
Manny and Reagan critique cultural narratives around romantic relationships, pointing out the pitfalls of idolizing earthly love over divine love. They use examples from pop culture, such as the tumultuous relationship of celebrities like Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, to illustrate the destructive nature of publicly aired, toxic relationships. The conversation stresses the importance of Christ leading a relationship to prevent chaos and maintain a healthy, God-centered dynamic.In response to audience questions, Reagan and Manny tackle topics like incorporating prayer into a relationship, Christ-centered dating, and approaching forgiveness. Manny emphasizes the value of prayer and its perceived awkwardness in a secular culture, while Reagan provides practical advice on dating with the intention of marriage, setting boundaries to combat temptation, and understanding purity within and outside of marriage.
Transitioning to friendships, Reagan opens up about her challenges in maintaining friendships and the significance of surrounding oneself with friends who also sit at the feet of Jesus. Manny adds a male perspective, stressing the importance of accountability and the pitfalls of adopting a 'not my business' stance with friends. They both agree on the critical role of having friends who are honest and rooted in biblical truth. The episode wraps up with Manny’s prayer, asking for wisdom and strength to maintain relationships that glorify God. They thank all of you for joining and hope to see you next time on the Real Life Theology Podcast. 
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