Let the Awkward Conversations Begin! Adaeze and Chad―two different people, two different backgrounds―both brought a lot of baggage into their relationship. Adaeze, a black Nigerian American woman who has lived with racism and discrimination her entire life. Chad, a white man with a family from the South who mostly grew up in white spaces. Determined to learn to communicate honestly and effectively, they stepped into tough conversations about their differences. Walls came down and Adaeze and Chad discovered the trust and respect they could have in and for each other. White Boy/Black Girl is an open-handed invitation from Adaeze and Chad to learn: Why trying to be the “perfect” Black or white person can’t be the goalHow to attempt to get it right when you’re terrified of getting it wrongWhat to do when you’re feeling uncomfortable, defensive, or misunderstoodThat repair is possible even when you’ve flat-out stepped in itThe importance of surrendering our pain and prejudice to the redemptive work of Jesus Adaeze and Chad provide a safe space for us to eavesdrop on some of the most vulnerable conversations they’ve had about their differences. Their candid and honest back and forth gives us common, usable language to meet each other where we’re at. The path to empathy and understanding isn’t easy―but they promise you, it’s always worth it.

Tabitha Westbrook, LMFT-S, LCMHC-QS, LPC-S, is a licensed therapist who helps people who have messy, funky pasts (and sometimes messy, funky presents) live amazing, empowered lives today. Tabitha graduated with her BA in Psychology from NC Central University & her MA in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. In addition to being a licensed counselor & supervisor, Tabitha is an EMDRIA Certified Therapist & Approved Consultant, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), & Certified Christian Trauma Care Provider (CCTCP). She’s also certified in Immediate Stabilization Protocol (ISP), an evidence-based disaster response protocol. She’s the Founder & CEO of The Journey and The Process, a private practice with offices in North Carolina & Texas, specializing in complex trauma, with a focus on domestic abuse & coercive control. Tabitha is a nationally known expert & speaker on abuse, providing training to churches, therapists, & agencies. She also helps train domestic abuse advocates through ⁠Called to Peace Ministries⁠’ faith-based advocacy training, as well as having served as a co-facilitator for the G5 Men’s Batterer Intervention Group. Tabitha is the author of ⁠Body & Soul, Healed & Whole: An Invitational Guide to Healthy Sexuality After Trauma, Abuse, and Coercive Control.⁠ Tabitha is the proud mom to an adult son and currently lives in Dallas, TX. If you’re a survivor of sexual harm, recovering your sexuality is possible. You are worthy of good care. The toxic effects of sexual trauma and abuse can be devastating and lasting. Victims’ ability to experience healthy sexuality, even if they free themselves from the abuse, is often shattered. If sexual abuse, violence, or coercive control is part of your story, certified sex addiction therapist (CSAT) and trauma specialist Tabitha Westbrook wants you to know: you are not alone, and healing is possible. In Body & Soul, Healed & Whole,Tabitha draws on her specialized expertise, her own personal story of abuse, and a deep knowledge of Scripture to create a safe and compassionate place for you to start recovering – or even finding - the healthy sexuality God intended for you. With honest wisdom and empathetic understanding, Body & Soul, Healed & Whole will help you discover how to: process your story of abuse―whether it occurred as a child, within marriage, or by someone in a position of power―without shame, develop healthy relationships with God, with ourselves, and with others (including those of the opposite sex),reconnect with your good body and establish a foundation for healthy sexuality, whether currently married or single, identify and address any spiritual abuse that may have taken place within sexually abusive relationships, understand what arousal structures are, how they’re formed and distorted by abuse, and how to shift them when needed for healing, and incorporate practical skills for self-care during your healing process. Sexuality does not have to be forever broken. Rest assured in a God who understands and loves you in the deepest of deep ways―and begin your journey toward wholeness, restoration and healing. Tabitha Westbrook, LMFT-S, LCMHC-QS, LPC-S, is a licensed therapist who helps people who have messy, funky pasts (and sometimes messy, funky presents) live amazing, empowered lives today. Tabitha graduated with her BA in Psychology from NC Central University & her MA in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. In addition to being a licensed counselor & supervisor, Tabitha is an EMDRIA Certified Therapist & Approved Consultant, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), & Certified Christian Trauma Care Provider (CCTCP). She’s also certified in Immediate Stabilization Protocol (ISP), an evidence-based disaster response protocol. She’s the Founder & CEO of The Journey and The Process, a private practice with offices in North Carolina & Texas, specializing in complex trauma, with a focus on domestic abuse & coercive control. Tabitha is a nationally known expert & speaker on abuse, providing training to churches, therapists, & agencies. She also helps train domestic abuse advocates through ⁠Called to Peace Ministries⁠’ faith-based advocacy training, as well as having served as a co-facilitator for the G5 Men’s Batterer Intervention Group. Tabitha is the author of ⁠Body & Soul, Healed & Whole: An Invitational Guide to Healthy Sexuality After Trauma, Abuse, and Coercive Control.⁠ Tabitha is the proud mom to an adult son and currently lives in Dallas, TX.

It's time for church leaders and believers to stop offering prettily packaged responses from a safe distance. It's time for us to sit in the ashes with the hurting, our Sunday clothes covered in dirt and grime, our faces lined with tears. Trauma brings people to the ash heap, so that is where the church needs to go. The church should serve as a refuge for people in pain. And yet, we often end up unintentionally causing more hurt to trauma survivors. Theological platitudes and positive thinking aren't simply dismissive to those who suffer, but they inevitably retraumatize the wounded. Does the Bible have anything practical to offer for church leaders as they engage the pain in their congregations? Biblical scholar Michelle Keener shows us that the book of Job provides embodied and practical answers for the church today. In this incredible tool for ministry leaders and trauma survivors alike, Keener offers: deep wisdom at the intersection of trauma theory and the book of Job for Christian communities reflection questions for ministry practitioners and those walking alongside those who have experienced trauma engagement with the idea of a shattered worldview and how to overcome the effects of that experience. Comfort in the Ashes helps leaders navigate their own trauma and gives practical guidance for supporting others whose worlds are falling apart. God meets us in our ashes and our pain. It's time for the church to do the same.

In a world that prizes hustle and constant productivity, breaking the habit of hurry can seem far-fetched, and yet we still try to achieve it with life hacks to get more sleep and increase energy. But self-help strategies are not the solution to our exhaustion problem. Today I’ve invited Eryn Lynum on for a discussion regarding her new book The Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach us Sabbath Living. Eryn Lynum is author of the book 936 Pennies, and has been featured on FamilyLife Today radio and the Simply Wholehearted podcast, as well as at Proverbs 31 Ministries, MOPS International, and For Every Mom. She lives in Northern Colorado with her husband and four children. In this six-week Bible study, you'll explore the deep roots of rest found in Scripture and the outdoors while unearthing attainable rest for everyday life. Through nature reflections, scriptural word studies, and guided journaling prompts, you will learn how to return to God's original pattern of rest and workturn seasons of waiting into restful growthexperience daily rest through selah pausespractice Sabbath in a way that fits your lifestylelive every day in God's restful presence

I have taken a segment from the podcast with Dr. Pisani as she was talking about mentoring younger women. She joins the channel to discuss her new book Entrusted to Lead. Donna Pisani, a pastor and Bible teacher with forty years of ministry experience, has a game-changing message for women leaders: the One who loves you most is cheering you on, has given you a voice, and already has a seat at the table waiting for you. A practical tool for women who are called to leadership roles in any area of life, Entrusted to Lead offers biblical insight and real-life encouragement for how to navigate their leadership journey.   In Entrusted to Lead, Pastor Donna Pisani draws on over four decades of experience to offer a biblical perspective of women in leadership that considers their role an entrusted assignment rather than just an entitled position. Women who wrestle with God’s call to lead, or who don’t have anyone supporting their call, will discover how to:    Embrace their God-given, unique leadership gifts Become alert to the internal lies that make them hesitant to pursue their calling Answer Jesus’ mandate to women to “go tell”—even when no one seems to be listening Understand how Paul empowered both genders to lead and serve together Lean into Jesus’ strength when facing leadership challenges Generations of confusion keep women from answering God’s call to lead, depriving God’s kingdom of crucial gifts and abilities. Entrusted to Lead shows women what it looks like to lead with confidence in the workplace and in ministry—and why Jesus always wanted women to have a seat at the table. Donna Pisani is a pastor and Bible teacher with forty years of ministry experience. The author of The Power of Not Yet, she has aMaster of Arts in Ministerial Leadership from Southeastern University and a DMin from George Fox University focusing on women in leadership. Donna cofounded Capital City Church alongside herhusband and she is a cofounder of the Circle of Twelve, a mentoringprogram for women leaders. Her family includes four adult children,two son-in-laws, and two adorable grandchildren.

Migrant God takes readers to the front lines of immigrant justice activism where Christians are putting hope into action. From Tijuana, Mexico, to Douglas, Arizona, across North Carolina and beyond, Isaac Villegas cuts a new path through worn-out talking points and bears witness to loving solidarity among Christians—both with and without US citizenship. Along the way, he offers a theologically astute and politically rich vision of beloved community. Centering the stories of people who have been transformed through their dedication to the work of collective wholeness, Villegas begins each chapter “on the ground”—with protests in the streets, hospitality in migrant shelters, and shared meals in home kitchens. He then engages in biblical, theological, and political reflection to explore the significance—for our faith and our world—of these sites of collective work. Migrant God is a stirring read for anyone who wants to shift conversations about immigration toward a more holistic Christian vision of life lived in solidarity with migrants. 1. Why are political discussions about immigrants so polarizing? Common phrases used to describe the issue are “broken immigration system" and "the crisis at the border”. What are some things to consider when thinking about it this way? 2. In the book you share a story about being arrested after a standoff with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Why was it important for you to participate in the standoff? 3. How do you lead the reader from the horrors of the border’s violence toward a Christ centered way to thinking? 4. How can the realities of immigration shape our understanding of God? 5. Is a Christian to live in solidarity with immigrants? What does this look like? Isaac Samuel Villegas is an ordained minister in the Mennonite Church USA who is involved in the work of community organizing and activism for immigrant justice. He is also a columnist for The Christian Century and Anabaptist World.

Like many people today, Jeff Mikels is concerned by the evangelical church’s embrace of cultural and political idols. Unlike many people, however, Mikels is a former evangelical pastor who regrets his complicity in this trend.  Evangelical Idolatry: How Pastors Like Me Have Failed the People of God is both a confession and a call to repentance. Reflecting on his twenty-year pastoral ministry with candor and humility, Mikels acknowledges the ways he enabled parishioners to develop destructive loyalties to cultural and political idols. As he works to reform his own worldview and embrace allegiance to Christ alone, he urges evangelical pastors and laypeople to join him in reforming their faith and living out the good news of the true gospel. Jeff Mikels holds degrees from Wheaton College and Denver Seminary. He has overtwenty years of pastoral experience, leading a church in Chicago for five yearsbefore planting one in Lafayette, Indiana. There, he was involved in the Pastors’Alliance; he also helped establish the Greater Lafayette Gospel Association, which isa network of gospel-focused ministries, and served as its president.

Like many people today, Jeff Mikels is concerned by the evangelical church’s embrace of cultural and political idols. Unlike many people, however, Mikels is a former evangelical pastor who regrets his complicity in this trend.  Evangelical Idolatry: How Pastors Like Me Have Failed the People of God is both a confession and a call to repentance. Reflecting on his twenty-year pastoral ministry with candor and humility, Mikels acknowledges the ways he enabled parishioners to develop destructive loyalties to cultural and political idols. As he works to reform his own worldview and embrace allegiance to Christ alone, he urges evangelical pastors and laypeople to join him in reforming their faith and living out the good news of the true gospel. Jeff Mikels holds degrees from Wheaton College and Denver Seminary. He has overtwenty years of pastoral experience, leading a church in Chicago for five yearsbefore planting one in Lafayette, Indiana. There, he was involved in the Pastors’Alliance; he also helped establish the Greater Lafayette Gospel Association, which isa network of gospel-focused ministries, and served as its president.

Evangelical Idolatry: How Pastors Like Me Have Failed the People of God is both a confession and a call to repentance. Reflecting on his twenty-year pastoral ministry with candor and humility, Mikels acknowledges the ways he enabled parishioners to develop destructive loyalties to cultural and political idols. As he works to reform his own worldview and embrace allegiance to Christ alone, he urges evangelical pastors and laypeople to join him in reforming their faith and living out the good news of the true gospel. Jeff Mikels holds degrees from Wheaton College and Denver Seminary. He has overtwenty years of pastoral experience, leading a church in Chicago for five yearsbefore planting one in Lafayette, Indiana. There, he was involved in the Pastors’Alliance; he also helped establish the Greater Lafayette Gospel Association, which isa network of gospel-focused ministries, and served as its president.

Evangelical Idolatry: How Pastors Like Me Have Failed the People of God is both a confession and a call to repentance. Reflecting on his twenty-year pastoral ministry with candor and humility, Mikels acknowledges the ways he enabled parishioners to develop destructive loyalties to cultural and political idols. As he works to reform his own worldview and embrace allegiance to Christ alone, he urges evangelical pastors and laypeople to join him in reforming their faith and living out the good news of the true gospel. Jeff Mikels holds degrees from Wheaton College and Denver Seminary. He has overtwenty years of pastoral experience, leading a church in Chicago for five yearsbefore planting one in Lafayette, Indiana. There, he was involved in the Pastors’Alliance; he also helped establish the Greater Lafayette Gospel Association, which isa network of gospel-focused ministries, and served as its president.

Time and time again we venture down the same path to resentment because we struggle to embrace the conflict that comes with setting boundaries! For more content please consider supporting me on my Patreon channel: https://www.patreon.com/c/kylespears

What does Bible study look like after inerrancy? Do you have to give up studying Scripture when you no longer believe in its literal interpretation? Can you still believe this book is sacred even while renegotiating your relationship to the church? In Knock at the Sky: Seeking God in Genesis after Losing Faith in the Bible, Liz Charlotte Grant offers compelling answers to these questions and more in this deeply personal commentary on the book of Genesis. Braiding together encounters with the natural world, Jewish midrash, and art criticism, Grant makes familiar Sunday school stories strange and offers a fresh vision for reading Scripture after deconstruction. For those who have known the book of Genesis as a weapon in the culture wars, Grant interprets the Bible’s inspired book of beginnings as a work of art. Lyrical, insightful, and highly original, Knock at the Sky offers readers a capacious model for seeking God through Scripture even as one’s faith continues to evolve. “In this book, you too have permission to question the sacred without fearing . . . unbelief. Knock loudly. . . . Reject answers that do not admit complication. Seek the resonance at the base of the story. The seeking is the point. Because there, in your wandering, God is.” About the Author Liz Charlotte Grant is an award-winning essayist whose work has been published in The Revealer, Sojourners, Brevity, Christian Century, Christianity Today, Hippocampus, and elsewhere. She also writes The Empathy List, a popular newsletter that has been nominated for a Webby two years running. She lives in Colorado.

What does Bible study look like after inerrancy? Do you have to give up studying Scripture when you no longer believe in its literal interpretation? Can you still believe this book is sacred even while renegotiating your relationship to the church? In Knock at the Sky: Seeking God in Genesis after Losing Faith in the Bible, Liz Charlotte Grant offers compelling answers to these questions and more in this deeply personal commentary on the book of Genesis. Braiding together encounters with the natural world, Jewish midrash, and art criticism, Grant makes familiar Sunday school stories strange and offers a fresh vision for reading Scripture after deconstruction. For those who have known the book of Genesis as a weapon in the culture wars, Grant interprets the Bible’s inspired book of beginnings as a work of art. Lyrical, insightful, and highly original, Knock at the Sky offers readers a capacious model for seeking God through Scripture even as one’s faith continues to evolve. “In this book, you too have permission to question the sacred without fearing . . . unbelief. Knock loudly. . . . Reject answers that do not admit complication. Seek the resonance at the base of the story. The seeking is the point. Because there, in your wandering, God is.” About the Author Liz Charlotte Grant is an award-winning essayist whose work has been published in The Revealer, Sojourners, Brevity, Christian Century, Christianity Today, Hippocampus, and elsewhere. She also writes The Empathy List, a popular newsletter that has been nominated for a Webby two years running. She lives in Colorado.

What does Bible study look like after inerrancy? Do you have to give up studying Scripture when you no longer believe in its literal interpretation? Can you still believe this book is sacred even while renegotiating your relationship to the church? In Knock at the Sky: Seeking God in Genesis after Losing Faith in the Bible, Liz Charlotte Grant offers compelling answers to these questions and more in this deeply personal commentary on the book of Genesis.   Braiding together encounters with the natural world, Jewish midrash, and art criticism, Grant makes familiar Sunday school stories strange and offers a fresh vision for reading Scripture after deconstruction. For those who have known the book of Genesis as a weapon in the culture wars, Grant interprets the Bible’s inspired book of beginnings as a work of art. Lyrical, insightful, and highly original, Knock at the Sky offers readers a capacious model for seeking God through Scripture even as one’s faith continues to evolve.   “In this book, you too have permission to question the sacred without fearing . . . unbelief. Knock loudly. . . . Reject answers that do not admit complication. Seek the resonance at the base of the story. The seeking is the point. Because there, in your wandering, God is.” About the Author Liz Charlotte Grant is an award-winning essayist whose work has been published in The Revealer, Sojourners, Brevity, Christian Century, Christianity Today, Hippocampus, and elsewhere. She also writes The Empathy List, a popular newsletter that has been nominated for a Webby two years running. She lives in Colorado.

When we are not able to be direct when needed skirting issues can do more harm than good. Truth in love is the only way to go. This clip is taken from my Patreon page if you would like access to more of my content please consider supporting me! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/kylespears My website: www.truthtraumatheology.com

I decided to step away from the creating content last year and wanted to share why I left. I also want to share about what is next in 2025 and what you can expect. Please follow me on Patreon where you can receive exclusive content and access to community discourse on important and controversial topics respectfully. https://www.patreon.com/c/kylespears

What is Toxic Shame? How does it affect those trying to live for Christ? What does the Bible say about shame? In this Patreon Spotlight Dr. Conny Nussbaum joins the discussion to share insight regarding what the Bible says about shame. Conny previously presented her research during a Patreon-exclusive meeting and I wanted to make sure it saw the light of day! Her research is clear, meaningful, and practical. About Connie: Studied PhD in Immunology (Psychoneuroimmunology) at Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Universität Greifswald and is now studies Clinical Counseling (MA) at Winebrenner Theological Seminary. She formerly worked as a Consultant Scientific & Clinical Editor/Writer. Since 2010 she has worked with grief working as a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist. What is Patreon Spotlight? Patreon Spotlight is exclusive content from those who have expertise in the Patreon Community. Many of them present at our Mastermind Meetings and are then selected to share for a public interview depending on the topic. If you are interested in becoming a patreon member you will have the opportunity to join a Mastermind Group. Please visit: https://www.patreon.com/kylespears

Let's go to Hawaii! We are excited to announce Kristi and I will be spiritual Directors on the next DT Travel Cruise to Hawaii this upcoming September 21st-28th. Registration closes May 14th, 2024. The theme of the cruise this year is “Unburden”. Jesus tells us that those who come to him will be permitted to exchange their burdens for rest. We will focus on Five Burdens. We will first discuss the burden of the inner critic and how to unburden the tendencies of Comparison, Perfectionism, Resentment, and Indecision. To sign up for the cruise please visit: https://disciplestoday.org/kyle-and-kristi-spears-to.../ About Kyle & Kristi: Kyle currently works as a Life Coach & Therapist for those working through spiritual and emotional barriers. His ministry includes a YouTube channel, podcast, and blog and as well as a website featuring resources for issues associated with trauma and theology. Kyle has experience as a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner and Certified Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Nebraska. He has pursued biblical studies from Rocky Mountain School of Ministry and Theology and Harding School of Theology and was formally recognized as a teacher in the Omaha Church of Christ in December 2021. Kyle was baptized as a teen in 2001 in Kansas City and Kristi was baptized as a teen in 2003 in Omaha. Kristi’s parents and her two siblings are also disciples. After graduating from high school Kristi served in the US Air Force as a medic. Kyle and Kristi met in 2011 during a weekend Kyle visited for a basketball tournament. They dated and were married at the end of 2012. Kristi works as a Physician Assistant specializing in Cardiothoracic Surgery and they are raising their two children Shea and Amya.

What are my spiritual gifts and how do I unlock them? What does the Bible say about the various spiritual gifts? How do I partner with the Holy Spirit? How do I bless the church with my gifts? How does trauma interfere with my understanding or use of my gift? In this conversation we bring our series to a close as Tim Sherrill joins to discuss how to use the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Many people do not know what their gifts are or how to use them. One thing is certain, we are made to function using God's Spirit. Tim has conducted Spiritual Gift classes for our local congregation as well as others. His approach to helping people find their spiritual gifts is based in scripture as well as experience. Tim and Wendy Sherrill were high school sweethearts and were married in 1979. Over the last 39 years, the Sherrills have led in varying capacities in churches in Detroit, MI; Phila, PA; Seattle, WA; Fort Wayne, IN; and Omaha, NE. They and their family have helped churches across the Midwest grow and be healthy. Today, Tim and Wendy lead the Omaha Church and live to seek and save the lost. When they are not doing that you will probably find them watching classic movies. They have three disciple kids, two in Texas and one in Minnesota and four grandkids, a daughter-in-law and a son-in-law. Prior to being on staff in churches before 2008, Tim worked for Progressive Insurance for 23 years moving around to various locations and management opportunities, including working with industry associations and political affairs assignments. Wendy has worked professionally in real estate and many volunteer jobs at schools. Tim holds a B.S. degree in Health Administration from Eastern Michigan University (1983) and a Masters in Religious Education in MIssional Leadership from Rochester University in Rochester, Michigan (2019).

In this episode we explore how the Old Testament portrays the Holy Spirit's presence. It seems confusing to reconcile how the OT describes the Spirit's activity as opposed to what we see in the NT. Dr. Monje joins to discuss the fundamental questions Christians have when reading the Holy Spirit of the OT. Q.What was the Jewish understanding of the Spirit? Definition of ruach? Uses of ruach? Q. Is the “Spirit" in the OT also “holy”? Q.How is the Holy Spirit present in creation? Q.What does it mean when the Spirit came upon various characters throughout the OT? Senses of Ruach? Empowerment? Q. What happened with the elders of Israel? Q. What happened with Saul? Q. What about Saul’s evil spirit? Q. Is this the spirit of God or something else? Q. What does this say about Saul? Q. What are some OT prophecies regarding the Spirit that are fulfilled throughout the NT? Q. Do the Dead Sea Scrolls have something to say on the Spirit? Rolan Monje (BD, MMin, DMin) serves as an evangelist and teacher. He is Professor of Hebrew and Old Testament at Rocky Mountain School of Ministry and Theology in Colorado, and also directs the Asia-Pacific Leadership Academy in Manila. Dr. Monje travels extensively (over 100 cities across 6 continents) and has spoken in countries as varied as Germany, Turkey, Qatar, Greece, UAE (Dubai), Ecuador, Canada, Nigeria, Myanmar, and Australia. He and his wife, Weng, oversee a region of churches in the Philippines and have been on staff over 20 years. They have two daughters, Yana and Stefi. Dr. Monje's Bachelor of Divinity is in Biblical Languages from the University of London; his Master of Ministry is from the American Bible College in Florida, USA; his Doctor of Ministry is in Pastoral Theology. Personal website: rolanmonje.com Published books: www.ipibooks.com “Into the Psalms” (2010), “Exodus: Making Israel’s Journey Your Own” (2013), “After the Storm: Hope and Healing from Ezra-Nehemiah” (2014), “Finish Strong: The Message of Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi” (2016) Podcasts: Ten podcasts on Interpreting the Psalms (download at douglasjacoby.com)

How do we know if we are hearing God's voice or our own? How do we know if we are in step with the Spirit? Is it possible to lose the Spirit? How does the Spirit direct our thoughts or emotions? In this conversation we explore the various ways the Holy Spirit speaks to us. How does the Holy Spirit speak to our conscience? How does the Holy Spirit sanctify us? How does the Holy Spirit convict us? How can we grieve the Spirit? How can we quench the Spirit? What does it mean to blaspheme the Spirit? How can we learn to distinguish the Spirit’s voice from our own? Dr. Bill Moulden has served in the full-time ministry for over 28 years throughout the Southwest, Midwest, and now the Heartland family of churches. He currently serves as an Evangelist and Teacher with the Gateway City Church in St. Louis, MO. Bill has Masters of Divinity and a Doctorate in Ministry from Trinity Southwest University in Albuquerque, NM. Happily married to Kristin Moulden for 28 years and father to three amazing daughters.

In this episode we begin a 4-part series on the Holy Spirit. Dr. Andy Boakye joins the discussion to help clarify the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a New Covenant Christian. Andy masterfully explains the original greek context and gives us an understanding of why Paul taught a specific theology regarding the Holy Spirit. This is just the beginning of this conversation! The Holy Spirit as a seal? The Holy Spirit as a deposit, guarantee? How does the Holy Spirit intercede for us? How does the Holy Spirit create special intimacy with God (abba)? How are we temples for the Holy Spirit? How can Paul’s understanding of the Holy Spirit inspire us towards greater confidence? Dr Andrew Boakye Lecturer in Religions and Theology and Member of the Centre for Biblical Studies at the University of Manchester and co-chair of the Paul seminar of the British New Testament Society. He is author of Death and Life: Resurrection, Restoration and Rectification in Paul's Letter to the Galatians (Wipf & Stock, 2017) and co-author of Rethinking Galatians: Paul's Vision of Oneness in the Living Christ (T&T Clark, 2021 with Professor Peter Oakes). He is currently working on the Word Biblical Themes Commentary on Ephesians for Zondervan Press and his research interests include Pauline Christianity, resurrection theology, masculinity studies and intertextuality. He has been consulted on issues of racial harmony and reconciliation across the Protestant communion and is part of a colloquium combating domestic violence in religious spaces. Andy is married to Chi and has two children - Aaron (21) and Storm (19).

How do we know if a situation should be considered spiritual abuse? What are the various types of trauma that can occur? Are we using the most effective terms when we talk about trauma in a faith context? In this episode we will be discussing the specifics of spiritual trauma starting with the basics. Dr. St. Jean is a professor of Social Work at King University who has served in churches for decades. He joins the conversation to share the latest from his book 'Spiritual Trauma: A Guide for Healing Your Heart from Church Hurts'. If you are interested in contacting Sean please visit his website www.seanstjean.com 0:00 Intro 4:20 Why did you decide to write this book? 15:25 What personal challenges did you face in writing this book? 25:00 What do the ABC's of spiritual trauma stand for? 35:00 How has 'conformity culture wounded people specifically? 41:30 How do we reconcile both the good and the bad as we heal? 54:00 How do people lower their defenses and begin to trust after being hurt? 1:00:00 Why would those in leadership want to read this book? 1:10:00 How is it that people can appear one way to upper leadership and another to membership?

How do we support our children's decisions when we do not agree with them? How do we exude unconditional love for our children without compromising what we personally feel called to? How do hold a "both-and" with some of the more complex issues? Karen Louis of Good Enough Parenting joins the conversation to discuss the concept of Autonomy Granting vs Autonomy Support. This concept helps parents navigate the choppy waters of healthy autonomy. For more information on Good Enough Parenting please visit ⁠https://goodenoughparenting.com/

If you are interested in becoming a Patreon Member visit www.patreon.com/kylespears Sam Youngblood is one of my Patreon Community members who helps to research various topics on the Biblical Literacy Team. This is also part of a new interview series where I interview various members who are in the Patreon Community. Churches are faced with a constant need to understand the cultural demands around them. Sometimes churches can borrow from the culture in ways that create an unhealthy environment. Of course this is in effort to reach the world for Christ. Sam outlines three keys in conceptualizing church growth. There are 3 primary ways that churches can emphasize church growth: 1) …by an exaltation of “The Great Commission” -“The Great Commission” is used for rhetorical power -That title is a new invention -Matthew 28:18-20 points to a wider mission (“I have been given all authority…teaching them to obey”) 2)…by missing the big picture of God’s mission -Old Testament portraits of God’s aims are wider -Focus on “souls” rather than humans and creation -Eschatology as an influence on the “then” and the “now” -What kind of fruit do disciples bear? 3)…by misunderstanding church history -Paul’s failure to thrust evangelism as the central task of churches -How the early church following the apostles regarded Matt. 28:18-20 and their growth -Supposedly almost 2000 years of no movement of true disciples until now -Impulse of Christ, or Constantine?

Lisa Euthon was baptized while a college student at the University of Missouri-St. Louis and has spent the last 30 years serving in different ministries in Missouri, Texas, and Kansas. She, and her husband Tyler, are the proud parents of two boys. Lisa has worked within the medical and education settings walking alongside individuals of all ages and backgrounds as they have navigated diagnoses that have included dementia, traumatic brain injury, cancer, and learning disabled. Equipped with a dual certification in life and spiritual coaching and drawing from her own experiences, she is unafraid to dive into the deeper and more uncomfortable layers of the human experience for the purpose of providing hope and healing to others. For more information and to work with Lisa, email her at lisa.v.euthon@gmail.com or check out her website at www.euthoncoaching.com Quote from Diane Landberg’s presentation at the Restore 2022 Conference titled Understanding Abuse of Power in the Church. "When you sit with others you are in essence to be a living breathing model of the character of Jesus Christ." The late Bill O’Brien served as CEO of Hanover Insurance. When asked by Otto Scharmer to sum up his most important learning experience in leading profound change, Bill responded, “The success of an intervention depends on the interior condition of the intervenor”. From Theory U: Leading from the Emerging Future by Otto Scharmer Morgan Harper Nichols, poet and artist at https://morganharpernichols.com and @morganharpernichols. "You are worthy of the time it takes to work through this breath by breath."

Life happens! Many of us find ourselves at a point we never thought we'd be. Not only has life thrown us curve balls, we have to somehow keep going. However, if we are not careful we can stuff our feelings along the way and think we are being strong. Resilience is more than gritting our way through life, it is about our willing to be vulnerable about what's challenging. Patty joins the channel to discuss her journey to spiritual resilience. Access Patty's Substack! ⁠https://pattyasaad.substack.com/⁠ Todd and Patty Assad were full-time ministers for over 36 years, but in their 60s, they retired from the ministry and started over with new careers and a baby. Their adorable granddaughter, Charlotte, came to live with them about a year and a half ago when she was six months old. They became Charlotte's primary caregivers because of family mental health issues and addiction. Little Charlotte has already endured two open heart surgeries and other medical problems. Their lives have changed radically. Todd is now a realtor, and Patty writes a spiritual but humorous newsletter called “What Just Happened?” at pattyasaad.substack.com. Interview Outline: 1. Tell us about your background and why you decided to begin writing content? 2. Today I want to focus on the concept of resilience but I’d like to by talking about the expectations that we have about Christian life. People can become resentful rather than becoming resilient, what are some resentments that you have experienced or helped others in dealing with? 3. How do you define resilience? How do you approach building resilience in others? 4. What has ministry taught you about helping people become more resilient? 5. What are some things you have learned about God’s character when facing challenges?

Brian is best known for some of the songs he's written that are sung by those in International Churches of Christ around the world -- songs like "Be with Me, Lord," "I Need Your Love," "Great Among the Nations," and “Anchor for the Soul.” Having written songs in the alternate rock genre for a long time he set out to write some really simple, easy-to-sing songs that could replace some of the ones he'd gotten tired of singing in church. Over time those songs caught on and are now favorites. Of course now he's tired of those songs so he's always writing new ones. Like spiritual therapy his soul is renewed by the act of writing songs that express themes of devotion, heartache, exuberance, fellowship, and a desire to change the world. Brian has released several albums over the years and is currently working in the studio on recording his next release. Brian has a Masters degree in Ministry from Pepperdine University and is currently serving in the LA Church of Christ as an evangelist, teacher, and minister of worship and media. He has a beautiful wife and three kids he's crazy about. He blogs at jbriancraig.wordpress.com and uploads videos to youtube.com/jbriancraig 1. We wanted to connect last year on your album Wait for the Lord My Soul and its relevance to mental health. Tell us about the journey you’ve been on with your health. 2. How would you describe the connection between art/music, worship and mental health? 3. What can you share about dealing with loss, faith, and surrender? 4. How does this relate to where we are as a church and where we need to mature? 5. What are you working on now?

Becky Aste is a trauma-informed marriage coach and the host of “Your Breakthrough Blueprint”, a top 10% globally ranked podcast. She is the CEO and creator of “I Do Breakthrough”, a company dedicated to equipping highly ambitious wives to repair thriving connection in their marriage by moving trauma out of the body. After spending a decade researching and going through every mainstream modality of healing to save her own marriage, she found herself 2 kids later, separated from her husband and on the verge of divorce. At the final hour, she stumbled upon the unconventional game-changer of somatic work that took her marriage from dying to thriving in less than a year and has made it her mission to get this into the hands of every woman possible ever since. To contact Becky visit https://www.idobreakthrough.com 1. Tell us a little bit about your journey and why you started your podcast? 2. As a Trauma-Informed Executive Marriage Coach, how do you approach the challenges of trauma? How do you involve the body? 3. You specialize in healing marriages, what are some factors to lead to emotional separation? 4. On your website you mention the idea of “How You Can Save Your Marriage Without Your Husband Being On Board”, how do you do this? 5. What advice do you have for those in churches who are on the brink of divorce?

In her latest book, Free and Fully Alive: Reclaiming the Story of Who You Were Created to Be, popular faith-leader, speaker, and certified life coach Karrie Garcia shares something most Christians can identify: “I was taught that God wants us to live freely, but I never understood what that kind of freedom meant or felt like. It seemed like a good idea in theory, but elusive—I had no idea how to grab hold of it.” In Free and Fully Alive, Karrie draws on her own experiences and expertise to create a dynamic, practical guide for readers to learn how to embrace their past and discover a deeper connection to themselves, God, and others. What is the difference between being free versus being free AND fully alive? What’s the first step someone needs to take to embrace his/her story – and why is it so crucial? How does understanding trauma help us understand sin and brokenness? Why do we need to lament our places of wounding? Though it’s difficult—as you note—why is it necessary to talk about the Enemy? How does he use isolation, doubt, and chaos to trap us? How can you determine if you’re caught in a “cycle of false freedom”? What’s the harm in these often benign behaviors? What are some biblical references that underscore the power of invitation?

After the release of their groundbreaking book, A Church Called Tov, which recorded the stories of abuse and toxic church cultures at some of the most prominent churches in the United States, New Testament scholar and blogger for Christianity Today Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer heard from a flood of people who had experienced similar instances of abuse. After all they’ve seen and heard, they still believe it’s possible for church cultures to be transformed from toxic to tov—from oppressive to good. In Pivot, Scot and Laura help churches to implement practices,establish priorities, and cultivate the Kingdom Gospel-centered qualities that form goodness cultures. Readers will find answers to the four most common questions people have about culture transformation: How can I transform the culture in my church or organization to make it tov? I believe my workplace has unhealthy values. How do I initiate change? How do I unleash a culture of goodness in my ministry? I’m not in a position of church leadership. What are some red flags that indicate a toxic culture, and what can I do if I see them? Pivot also includes the following practical features: The “Tov tool,” a survey to help you discern your organization’s culture and to promote spiritual conversations A “getting to work” section at the end of each chapter with questions and next steps for application Transformation is never easy. But for the sake of the next generation, we must do it. Scot McKnight (PhD, University of Nottingham) is a world-renowned speaker, writer, professor, and equipper of the Church. He is a recognized authority on the historical Jesus, early Christianity, and the New Testament. His books have been translated into Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Portuguese. He is the author of The Jesus Creed, The Blue Parakeet, The King Jesus Gospel, Revelation for the Rest of Us, numerous commentaries, and is now writing a sixteen-volume series of reflections called The Everyday Bible Study.

Most Christians have encountered phony posts on our feeds meant to rile us up. But not everything we see on social media is so obviously absurd. As online spaces increase in importance, we urgently need to consider how to love our neighbors on the internet—and this includes sharing the truth. Rachel I. Wightman is a librarian, an educator, and a believer in finding the integration of faith and fact-checking. She is the associate director for instruction and outreach at Concordia University, St. Paul. Prior to moving to Minnesota in 2012, she spent two years as librarian and missionary in Kampala, Uganda. 1. Tell us about your background and why you decided to write this book? 2. The last handful of years have been challenging with the pandemic, politics, and racial tension. What are some observations you have noticed about how people educate themselves on these matters? -You mention that algorithms influence us in Chapter 1. -In Chapter 2 you mention paywalls that myth of free information. 3. In Chapter 4 you cover “noticing our emotions”, why is this important? -In chapter 3 you mentioned that if a comment is removed we can become mistrustful or we label something as fake news out of frustration. Why do we respond this way? 4. In Chapter 5 “learning to evaluate” you talk about lateral reading. Give us an overview of what a healthy information gathering process looks like? -People have become quite cynical towards supposed “experts”, what might you want people to consider? (It seems like people see themselves as the experts!) 5. As Christians, how do we balance God’s word with the realities of the culture around us? -Sometimes people can become aloof or culturally out of touch in the name of being separate from the world. This can lead to being insensitive towards those who are hurting or different. How can we balance being not of the world and being all things to all people?

This is the second installment of the interview with Amy that discusses the grief of the next generation. Amy shares from her presentation from the Telios Conference in February which specifically addresses the various losses GenZ has experienced. - How has the securitization of schools affected the next gen? - How the challenges of the pandemic has stripped their hopefulness about the future. - How can we incorporate practices that help Gen Z become more hopeful?

In this conversation we discuss the impact of trauma on our theological imagination. Amy discusses her doctoral research from a theoretical trauma studies perspective. Amy describes the impact of suffering on our theological imagination and preaching. She discusses what she calls an "Enfleshed homiletic" where she describes the relationship between the body and the sermon. Dr. Amy McLaughlin-Sheasby is a professor in the College of Biblical Studies at Abilene Christian University, where she specializes in practical theology, homiletics, and wisdom literature. Her scholarship has been published in the peer-reviewed journals Interpretation, Homiletic, and The International Journal of Homiletics, with a forthcoming article to be published in Religions. Her most recent scholarship focuses on the impact of suffering on theological imagination and discourse. Amy and her husband, Nathan, currently live in Abilene, Texas, and are members of Highland Church of Christ.

In this conversation we discuss the various ways that we can partner with the Spirit to help us transform into the image of Christ. 1. You have written a series called Drawing Near to God. What made you create this study series? 2. How long did it take you? What have you learned from writing this series? What is different? 3. You talk about how the way you teach can impact someone’s thinking, perspectives, etc. How do you see that playing out? 4. Do you want to give a quick overview of your series? 5. This is by far the first complete study about the Holy Spirit in a series. What were your thoughts when you included this in your series? Can you share more about the Spiritual Formation group that you mentioned earlier. 6. I am sure you have used the series to study the Bible with someone. How has that been? Matt Anjilivelil (pronounced an-jili-vel) has been a Christian for almost 37 years, baptized in the campus ministry. He has served in secular ministry roles in Boston, Los Angeles, Atlanta and Denver. He was part of the mission team to Amman Jordan in 1990 and then in 1999, he along with his wife Sandy and two kids moved to Kuwait to start the church. He led the church for 7 years, while holding a fulltime job. He has worked in the supply chain space for 30+ years. He has been married to Sandy for almost 29 years and they have three adult children including their son-in-law. They have served as shepherds for the campus ministry and young professionals for many years. For more information on the study series email Matt at matt.anjilivelil@gmail.com

In this episode we ask some though questions about forgiveness in the church. We know that we are commanded to forgive, but is forgiveness also a process? Andrew wrote a paper that has received criticism due to his perspective on forgiveness. I invited him onto the channel to discuss his perspective and the criticism he has received. For more information visit https://andrewkitchen.com.au/

Where do house churches fit into the call of the Great Commission? In this conversation we discuss role of house churches in the call to share the good news. Support the channel through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kylespears Tell us about your background and why you started your channel What denomination do you associate with? How do you interpret Mt. 28:18-20? How do house churches fit into the Great Commission? What are some traps churches that are eager to grow fall into in trying to fulfill the Great Commission In what ways has a corporation culture made discipleship transactional? What about the concern regarding teaching and appointing elders? How do you connect with Legacy churches? Why don’t you take a financial collection? What do you mean by the “system is broken”? Resources and Books: To Dream Again - Robert Dale (church lifecycle) Tombstones to Cornerstones - Rick Krug (change language from Church is dying to church is finishing) The Speed of Trust - Stephen M.R. Covey Multipliers (free ebook) by Todd Wilson. I did not name of this book, but I believe this is where the 99% of churches not live past 100 statistic comes from. https://multiplication.org/product/multipliers/ Curtis Sergeant https://Zume.training - 20 hours of free dis joke making training. Amazing material! https://2414now.net Resources for disciple making and house churches Revisiting the Master Plan of Evangelism by Coleman free ebook - https://discipleship.org/shop/revisiting-the-master-plan-of-evangelism/ For more content from Matt Dabbs go to his channel! https://www.youtube.com/@revolutionofordinaries

In this bonus clip we discuss how house churches can function for those who have church hurts and need space to heal.

House Churches is becoming one of the hot discussions in modern churches. Are they a threat? Are they biblical? Should we see them as a way that God is working? John Porter joins the channel to discuss his experience of leading a house church. Why did you decide to pursue a house church model? What does the New Testament say about house churches? Why do you think house churches seem to create tension with modern church movements? House church vs small group are they the same? Money/failed church plantings What are some ways movements and house churches can partner together? John's Website: fromhousetohouse.org Books: “House Church and Mission” by Roger W. Gehring "Relational Revolution: 5 Shifts for Rediscovering Church as Heart to Heart Connection” by White/Daniels/Smith Academic Papers: "Ecosystems of Grace: An Old Vision for the New Church" by Dr. Kent Smith - https://missiodeijournal.com/issues/md-7/authors/md-7-smith “Economy of Grace: An Early Take on Vulnerable Mission” by Dr. Kent Smith - https://missiodeijournal.com/issues/md-4-1/authors/md-4-1-smith John and Barbara were both baptized as college students in the early 1980’s. John was studying Mechanical Engineering at Clemson University and Barbara was a student at Harvard Law School. After graduating, they entered the ministry in 1985. Barbara was part of the Toronto church planting and John served as the leader of the church in Clemson, South Carolina. While still single, they went as missionaries to Mexico City in 1987 where they were married in 1988. Shortly after their wedding, they moved to Sāo Paulo, Brazil to work with a newly planted church; they lived for a total of 9 years in Sāo Paulo, and both their children, Joseph (32) and Jacqueline (30), were born there. They have served several churches in Florida and also lived in the Miami area for more than 10 years, training ministers and missionaries. After being in the traditional ministry for 30 years they decided to step out on faith and do ministry in a different way. Their new ministry is focused on developing a house church model. They currently live in Clemson, South Carolina where they are working to develop this model, train others and provide resources for those interested in planting churches in this way.

Have multicultural churches made racism in modern churches a thing of the past? Are movements that pride themselves on being racially diverse effective in addressing racial injustice in the church? Should multicultural churches address racial injustice from the pulpit? In this episode, Kevin Holland who serves as the Lead Evangelist for the Turning Point congregation in LA joins the conversation to discuss his approach to addressing racism in the modern church. Kevin serves as the Senior Pastor of Turning Point Church Los Angeles and an Evangelist and Elder with the Los Angeles International Church of Christ. He has a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry degree from the Harding School of Theology, is a coach in the Racial Justice and Unity Center network, is a member of the Christians Seeking Justice (CSJ) national justice ministry, and mentors church leaders around the United States. He and his wife Tracena have two daughters, Tory and Kennidy, a son-in-law, Tory's husband, Derrick Hinton, and a perfect granddaughter, Mia Love Hinton. Tell us about your conversion and why you went into the ministry? What has it been like to be minister and advocate for social justice and openly talk about racism? It has almost been taboo for ministers to talk about it. Why have you decided to take a stand? There are many folks in the church who feel like racial conversations have created more division than anything else. What would you say to those folks? What are some ways that churches can begin to engage racism in a biblical manner? What impact is the churches’ conflict over racism impacting the next generation?

Kylie and Romika have recently launched their coaching business that seeks to help women move forward in the healing process. In this episode we discussing the process of forgiveness and the pitfalls we fall into that keep us stuck. We discuss the misconceptions about forgiveness and how we can develop a healthy definition of forgiveness. Tell us about why you decided to start your podcast and coaching? Why is forgiveness so challenging? What are some ways that forgiveness is taught incorrectly? What does the forgiveness process look like? What resources, books would you recommend? Tell us about how we can get in touch with you? For more information visit Beyondthewallspodcast.com Instagram page: Beyondthewalls.podcast

Matt joins the conversation to discuss his new book Why the Gospel? Matthew W. Bates is a father of seven and Professor of Theology at Quincy University. His popular books include the award-winning Salvation by Allegiance Alone (Baker Academic), The Birth of the Trinity (Oxford University Press), The Gospel Precisely (Renew), and Gospel Allegiance (Brazos). When he isn't hiking, running, baseballing, or chasing around the seven, he co-hosts the OnScript podcast. Bates holds a B.S. in physics, an M.C.S. in biblical studies from Regent College, and a PhD in theology (New Testament) from the University of Notre Dame. A Protestant by conviction, he enjoys the privilege and challenge of teaching in a Catholic context. Learn more about his books or conference-speaking at MatthewWBates.com Briefly describe your previous books Gospel Allegiance and The Gospel Precisely? You begin the book with the concept of Jesus as King, why do believe this is important? How do you believe deconstruction has affected our understanding of the gospel both positively and negatively? In chapter 5 you write about a ‘Royal Transformation’, how might this benefit those who are hungering for a deeper understanding of discipleship? In chapter 6 ‘Good News for the Nones’, on page 141 you mention quality over quantity. Why is this important to the nones? Order Why the Gospel:https://www.amazon.com/Why-Gospel-Living-Jesus-Purpose/dp/0802881688

We discuss the difference between biblical unity versus organizational conformity. The Holy Spirit is moving, revealing, shifting, empowering, guiding, and gifting churches in new ways. Our traditional understanding of church or unity is being stretched as we make room for unconventional forms of community such as house churches and independent congregations. What does the Bible say about Unity? Why did your congregation leave the ICOC? In what ways has your congregation embraced unity or uniformity? How has conformity affected the next generation? How does culture contribute to an understanding of unity? About Will Archer: William Archer is a visionary Lead Pastor with over twenty-five years of experience leading missional communities in diverse ministry settings. He is an innovative Evangelist with a proven capacity to cultivate and amplify theologically sound and culturally relevant messaging across multiple digital platforms. He is deeply devoted to developing healthy communities of faith that engage the business community and community partners committed to helping the least of these in the Commonwealth of Virginia. He has served on several boards nationally and internationally. He is an alumnus of the 2019 Class of Leadership Prince William and of the 2022 Class of Lead Virginia. Pastor Archer has an Undergraduate degree in Public Policy from Arcadia University and a Master's degree from Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC. He is currently a Doctorate of Ministry candidate at Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Virginia. He has been married to the love of his life, Latosha Archer, for 23 years, and they have two adventurous children, 20-year-old Mekhi and 14 year-old Journey. He serves as the Lead Pastor for the Potomac Valley Church. The Potomac Valley Church is an Independent Christian congregation in Northern Virginia with a deep commitment to serving all people.

Where is God when our life is literally falling apart? How do we process the most challenging parts of our human existence? How does the book of Job apply to our lives today? How can those who love us support us more effectively? Darryl Potter joins the discussion to introduce us to his commentary on Job and how he worked through his own crisis of faith. Darryl's website is https://www.darylpotter.com

Spiritual Abuse is a complex and confusing topic for many people in today's churches. It is a conversation that causes people anxiety and frustration. On one side there is great skepticism on the validity of reported abuse. On the other side, people have legitimate experiences of trauma that have been minimized. How do churches reconcile this tension? Mark DeJesus and Dr. Foluso join the discussion to answer the question of what is spiritual abuse? What practices cause the greatest harm? How can we equip churches to address the harm in a Spirit-led manner? The event will be live-streamed through Facebook live and Youtube from 7:00 PM-9:00 PM Central Standard Time. The cost is FREE! Simply go to my Facebook page or Youtube channel on the date and time of the livestream. The first hour of the conversation will provide a basic overview of spiritual abuse. The second hour will specifically answer questions in the comments section during the livestream. Questions will be answered from both Facebook & Youtube. Mark DeJesus has served as an experienced communicator since the 1990s. As a teacher, author, transformational consultant and podcast host. He brings decades of pastoral and ministry experience to his current work in developing materials to help people experience healing, freedom and transformation. Mark is passionate about equipping people to experience mental, emotional and relationship health. He is gifted in provide grounded perspectives that help others address the core issues that influence the limitations and struggles we face. He is the author of numerous books and hundreds of teachings. Mark and his wife run Turning Hearts Ministries International and their broadcasts can be found at markdejesus.com. Mark and his wife Melissa enjoy raising their precious children Maximus and Abigail. Dr. Foluso is a licensed psychologist who specializes in evidence-based and culturally informed treatments of OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) and anxiety disorders. She is passionate about working with highly motivated individuals who are driven and successful in several areas of life but struggle with anxiety, especially with perfectionism. Coming from a multicultural background myself, I understand that traditional therapy techniques at times can overlook or ignore issues unique to those who come from diverse backgrounds, so my therapy work is culturally inclusive. Regardless of your background, I eagerly work with any individual who is ready to tackle the uncertainty that keeps them from fully engaging in the life as they desire. You can find out more information at skillsetcounseling.com or her youtube channel www.youtube.com/@skillsetcounseling

Spiritual Abuse is a complex and confusing topic for many people in today's churches. It is a conversation that causes people anxiety and frustration. On one side there is great skepticism on the validity of reported abuse. On the other side, people have legitimate experiences of trauma that have been minimized. How do churches reconcile this tension? Mark DeJesus and Dr. Foluso join the discussion to answer the question of what is spiritual abuse? What practices cause the greatest harm? How can we equip churches to address the harm in a Spirit-led manner? The event will be live-streamed through Facebook live and Youtube from 7:00 PM-9:00 PM Central Standard Time. The cost is FREE! Simply go to my Facebook page or Youtube channel on the date and time of the livestream. The first hour of the conversation will provide a basic overview of spiritual abuse. The second hour will specifically answer questions in the comments section during the livestream. Questions will be answered from both Facebook & Youtube. Mark DeJesus has served as an experienced communicator since the 1990s. As a teacher, author, transformational consultant and podcast host. He brings decades of pastoral and ministry experience to his current work in developing materials to help people experience healing, freedom and transformation. Mark is passionate about equipping people to experience mental, emotional and relationship health. He is gifted in provide grounded perspectives that help others address the core issues that influence the limitations and struggles we face. He is the author of numerous books and hundreds of teachings. Mark and his wife run Turning Hearts Ministries International and their broadcasts can be found at markdejesus.com. Mark and his wife Melissa enjoy raising their precious children Maximus and Abigail. Dr. Foluso is a licensed psychologist who specializes in evidence-based and culturally informed treatments of OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) and anxiety disorders. She is passionate about working with highly motivated individuals who are driven and successful in several areas of life but struggle with anxiety, especially with perfectionism. Coming from a multicultural background myself, I understand that traditional therapy techniques at times can overlook or ignore issues unique to those who come from diverse backgrounds, so my therapy work is culturally inclusive. Regardless of your background, I eagerly work with any individual who is ready to tackle the uncertainty that keeps them from fully engaging in the life as they desire. You can find out more information at skillsetcounseling.com or her youtube channel www.youtube.com/@skillsetcounseling

In their recently released book Trauma Informed Evangelism, Dr. Heath and Dr. Kiser address the role of trauma in how we approach sharing the good news about Christ. I am humbled to have been able to interview this duo on such an important topic as this. Patreon supporters have exclusive access before the interview is released to the public and are given access to bonus content. https://www.patreon.com/kylespears In this discussion we cover: How do we look at Matthew 28:18-20? How do we heal from the scars of growth pressures? How does trauma influence how we witness to others? What factors have contributed to the historical pressure to convert people? Here is a link to purchase the book: https://www.amazon.com/Trauma-Informed-Evangelism-Cultivating-Communities-Wounded/dp/0802882358/ref=sr_1_1?crid=36Q77F8ZOF1MI&keywords=trauma+informed+evangelism&qid=1681327008&sprefix=trauma+informed+eva%2Caps%2C107&sr=8-1

God's word is the standard yesterday, today, and forever. Whether you are a Baby Boomer, Generation X, Y, or Z, God's word equally applies to us all. Each generation has both strengths and weaknesses in how they view the world. As each generation faces new challenges in living for the Lord, how do we discuss healthy biblical interpretation in a productive manner? We are excited to announce a special event taking place on January 13th, 2023 at 3:00pm CST entitled Bridging the Gap! Nick Zola of Common Grounds Unity will be co-hosting the discussion as we are looking to bridge connections between the various Restoration Streams. We have invited Douglas Jacoby, Marty Solomon, and John Mark Hicks because of their decades of research and expertise. We have asked several Next Generation creators to submit both observations and questions for the panelists in effort to facilitate healthy conversation: Women in the Church- Corina Espejo and Travis Albritton Eikon Podcast- Michael Burns and Jason Alexander Space Makers- Janai Johnson and Meigan Whitcomb Wound of My People- Jian White Disciples Today- Lai-Yan Faller and Justin Renton Bend ICOC- Joey Hungerford HOPEww- Matt Rollins That Bible Guy- Simon Dinning I can not- Tom McGuirk Revolution of the Ordinaries- Matthew Dabbs For exclusive content become a Patreon subscriber today! www.patreon.com/kylespears Common Grounds Unity Podcast www.commongroundsunity.org Marty Solomon www.bemadiscipleship.com Douglas Jacoby International Bible Teaching Ministry www.douglasjacoby.com John Mark Hicks www.johnmarkhicks.com Women in the Church Corina Espejo and Travis Albritton podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/women-in-the-church/id1579403468 Eikon Podcast Michael Burns and Jason Alexander https://eikonpodcast.buzzsprout.com Space Makers Janai Johnson and Meigan Whitcomb www.spacemakerspodcast.com Wound of My People Jian White www.facebook.com/woundofmypeople/ Disciples Today Lai-Yan Faller and Justin Renton www.disciplestoday.org Bend ICOC Joey Hungerford www.youtube.com/@BendICOC HOPEww Matt Rollins www.hopeww.org That Bible Guy Simon Dinning www.youtube.com/@thatbibleguy I can not Tom McGuirk www.youtube.com/@Icannot Revolution of the Ordinaries Matthew Dabbs https://www.youtube.com/@revolutionofordinaries

What does the science reveal about how parents can connect with their children? How do parents more effectively engage their children? How do we repair the relationship after it has been damaged? How do we take biblical principles in light of what science reveals? Jayna Baczwaski is a fellow colleague who is incredibly gifted with children and parents. She has extensive training working with small children all the way to working with teens. She has helped countless families work through attachment whether the children are biological, foster, or adopted.

Parenting is challenging and yet it is a God-given responsibility. But what role does the community play? What about parents who did their best and yet their kids have not decided to follow Jesus? Are churches set up for success or failure? There is a generational disconnect in many of our communities. The older and younger generations are struggling to see eye to eye. Matina joins the channel to discuss how the scriptures paint a generational picture for adolescent spiritual formation. Matina has joined the channel previously to discuss her research and joins us again to share new findings. 0:00 Intro 5:15 What research have you done since our last interview? 13:00 What is the difference between youth of today versus the youth of yesterday? 17:10 How does healthy Old Testament Theology contribute to healthy adolescent formation? 21:00 How has the approach to reach the youth evolved? 41:00 What advice do you have for the older generation? 45:00 What support is there for parents and kids? 54:00 How does biblical literacy influence how parents engage their kids? 56:00 What about parents who did a good job but their kids don't become Christians?

Why are so many kids leaving the church? How do we as parents cultivate genuine community for our children? Is it okay to move to another church that will help grow our children's faith? How do those who are single parents cope with the pressure of raising kids? In this episode we explore the approaches that are helpful and unhelpful for building your kids' faith. Dr. John Louis has conducted research that has been applied in many people's families. His research is highly regarded by others researching biblical parenting. This is the first installment in a three-part series in parenting. For access to exclusive content please consider joining my patreon community: www.patreon.com/kylespears Good Enough Parenting website: https://goodenoughparenting.com 0:00 Intro 12:30 There is a high leave rate average in the next generation how do we address it? 17:45 What is Good Enough Parenting? 35:10 How do approach the Grit Culture or heavy- handedness that exists within parenting? 47:00 How do we avoid giving our children an inflated or deflated sense of self? 51:00 What about the concern that kids are too soft? 58:40 How do deal with limited resources? 1:01:00 What about parents who want to move to a different congregation that will better meet their child's needs?

How do we know if we are in an unhealthy spiritual environment? How do we know if we are becoming resentful? How do we deal with past or current hurts? Mark DeJesus is a YouTuber, transformational consultant, teacher, and former pastor. Mark joins the channel to discuss the healing process from his book Bitter free: How to Forgive Anyone, Resolve Conflict and Overcome Anger. To access exclusive content please visit my patreon page and consider supporting the channel www.patreon.com/kylespears Please visit Mark's website for more information: https://markdejesus.com 0:00 Intro 2:15 Conversion and ministry experience 9:15 Did you reach a breaking point? 22:00 Why did you write this book? 32:00 How do we heal when there is still abuse occurring? 46:00 Why do people lash out at people who are trying to help? 49:00 Should we consider leaving our faith community? 1:00:00 What are first steps for the forgiveness process?

Gender Roles is a hot topic to say the least. Ed and Deb Anton join the discussion to present the complementarian perspective and how women function within this specific paradigm. Ed and Deb have a unique perspective on the attitude of the heart that transcends the discussion as well. Intro 0:00 2:50 Conversion and ministry experience 11:05 What do you believe is at the core of this topic? 14:58 How do you teach the complementarian theological perspective? 26:00 How have people responded to the kenotarian theological perspective? 31:44 How important is biblical literacy in this discussion? 38:30 Do you consider Gender Roles a fellowship issue or salvation issue? 43:30 To what degree are women involved in preaching and making decisions? 50:00 What is your stance on women teaching? 58:00 How can congregations offer a a living example of women thriving in the church? 1:05:00 What about the example of Junia?

There seems to be a divide between Psychiatry and Christianity. Ellie Stevens is a board-certified psychiatrist who joins the channel to discuss her experience of healing from trauma in her new book Unshackled. Ellie bridges the gap between the reality of mental health and the reality of healing that comes from a relationship with Jesus. Ellie's Website: https://www.drelizabethstevens.com Order Book Today! https://www.drelizabethstevens.com/order-unshackled

Gender Roles is the probably the most loaded topic anyone can cover at the moment. Whether you land on mutuality or complementarian, people are passion about their perspective. Steve and Lisa join the discussion to share about their journey to their perspective about gender roles. For those who are interested in the Johnson's recent experience in the NW, we discuss their experience in a new series called "Off the Record". In the Off the Record, we discuss personal experiences of loss, controversial issues, and Patreon Q&A. Patreon Members will also receive early access and exclusive access to content not released publicly. www. patreon.com/kylespears 0:00 Intro 3:45 Conversion story 9:30 Journey to Mutuality 41:15 Do you believe Gender Roles is a Salvation Issue? 55:15 What advice do you have for women? 1:04:30 How did you incorporate biblical literacy to your journey? 1:13:00 How do we reach the next generation?

How do we heal from painful experiences while holding onto our relationship with God? What about when the place we came to heal is the same place that has injured our hearts? There are many Christians who find themselves lost in loss. Healing is a path and without direction we will remain stuck. Marilyn Kriete joins the channel to share her experience of disenfranchised grief. She interweaves trauma into her story and describes how it creates a specific type of loneliness. We will be discussing her upcoming book "the box must be empty" as we navigate through her journey towards greater healing. For those who are interested in her experience of the events that preceded and followed the 2003 Henry Kriete Letter, we discuss her experience in a new series called "Off the Record". In the Off the Record, we discuss personal experiences of loss, controversial issues, and Patreon Q&A. Patreon Members will also receive early access and exclusive access to content not released publicly. www. patreon.com/kylespears 0:00 Intro 3:00 Why did you write "The Box Must Be Empty" 24:00 How did you come to the understanding that you were stuck in grief? 32:00 What things that muffle grief? What are things that provide voice for grief? 41:00 How do people find safety for their grief journey? Marilyn's Website https://marilynkriete.com Paradise Road: A Memoir https://www.amazon.com/Paradise-Road-Memoir-Marilyn-Kriete-ebook/dp/B0912MW8PV/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=paradise+road&qid=1663074304&rnid=2941120011&s=books&sr=1-1

Is there a New Testament blueprint that marks who the true church is? Is there a pattern of New Testament culture that we are to imitate or is there more to the story? Every congregation wants to align themselves with the New Testament examples seen in scripture, but have we missed the story of God in the process? John Mark Hicks is a notable scholar in the Restoration Movement and joins the discussion as we discuss his book "Searching for the Pattern". Off the Record is a new series that takes the conversation to a deeper level. In the Off the Record interviews we discuss personal experiences of loss, controversial questions, and Patreon Q&A. John Mark is the first of the new series! Patreon Members will also receive early access and exclusive access to content not released publicly. www. patreon.com/kylespears 0:00 Intro 2:50 John Mark's story 13:05 The Traditional Blueprint Method 30:00 The Narrative Reading Strategy 47:52 Where do you see the Restoration Movement right now? 54:20 How do we reconcile the Bible being divine vs being human? 1:00:00 What cultural issues have you noticed the Restoration churches struggling with? John Mark's Website https://johnmarkhicks.com Searching for the Pattern https://www.amazon.com/Searching-Pattern-Journey-Interpreting-Bible/dp/1689634626/ref=sr_1_3?crid=2GN69XS75CFPV&keywords=John+mark+hicks&qid=1661811138&sprefix=john+mark+hicks%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-3 Around the Bible in 80 Days: The Story of God from Creation to New Creation https://www.amazon.com/Around-Bible-80-Days-Creation/dp/1684264618/ref=sr_1_2?crid=2GN69XS75CFPV&keywords=John+mark+hicks&qid=1661811138&sprefix=john+mark+hicks%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-2 Women Serving God https://www.amazon.com/Women-Serving-God-Journey-Understanding/dp/1735343307/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2GN69XS75CFPV&keywords=John+mark+hicks&qid=1661811138&sprefix=john+mark+hicks%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1

How do we hold a both-and? One of the most concerning issues in our culture is the inability to hold two truths together at the same time. People are living in extremes and have become more reactive than ever. Hope joins the discussion to share about the concept of Radical Acceptance or Reality Acceptance through the model of Dialectical Behavior Therapy. 0:00 Intro 2:00 Hope's story 6:23 Where does DBT fit with other approaches? 12:30 Who is a good fit for DBT? 21:00 How do you structure your DBT classes? 27:00 What are the core concepts of DBT? 35:00 What is Wisemind? 38:00 What is Radical Acceptance? Hope Peabody, MSW, LIMHP, is a licensed clinicial social worker, independent contractor, and partner with The Attachment and Trauma Center of Nebraska in Omaha. Although Crisis Intervention and treating symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is Hope’s area of expertise, she also has experience in a number of counseling areas. She is a trained Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) counselor who regularly facilitates DBT groups, and has level 2 training in EMDR. Prior to private practice, Hope was with YWCA Omaha as a sexual assault counselor and Clinical Coordinator. She has also provided in-home therapy and helped develop an aftercare program for incarcerated women. Hope has experience training area law enforcement, other mental health professionals, as well as medical personnel in the treatment of psychological trauma, particularly in the area of sexual assault. Hope earned her bachelor’s and master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Adultery is one of the most damaging experiences a human being can endure. Infidelity not only affects our ability to trust others, but even more our ability to trust others. After the discovery we wonder to ourselves where do we turn? Kim Pullen is the creator of Hope for Spouses which has helped a multitude of individuals and marriages heal from betrayal. Kim shares her personal journey of recovery from betrayal and gives specific direction to those who feel clueless. Please visit www.patreon.com/kylespears to access early access as well as exclusive access to more content! 0:00 Kim's story 4:00 What is the initial discovery like for partners? 8:15 What is the difference between a partner coming forward vs getting caught? 11:05 What are the various types of affairs? 18:00 Ways to respond after being betrayed? 28:00 How do we keep ourselves sane after a betrayal? 43:00 What does the forgiveness look like? 47:00 Coaching vs counseling Hope for Spouses Website https://hopeforspouses.com Hope for Spouses Network (Community) https://hopeforspouses.network

Do compulsive behaviors become better simply by becoming a Christian or is the issue more complex? Obsessions describe the mental battle and compulsions are the behavioral expression of this specific issue. Dr. Foluso provides a foundation for the clinical understanding of OCD and also addresses the spiritual dilemma many Christians face. Please visit Dr. Foluso's YouTube channel for more content @skillsetcounseling Visit Dr. Foluso's website for a free virtual consultation @ skillset counseling.com 0:00 What is OCD? 3:00 What are some misconceptions about OCD? 8:03 What is religious scrupulosity? 13:03 Are there any characteristics that are similar between Christians and those who struggle with OCD? 18:30 How might someone struggling with OCD interpret scripture?