In this episode, Pastor J.D.  concludes our mini-series about his latest book, Everyday Revolutionary, by asking the question: "WHY Is Gen Z Returning to the Church?"

This conversation features Wes Smith, College Pastor at The Summit Church. Much has been said about how Gen Z is returning to the church... but why is that happening? We explore the reasons behind this trend, including a dissatisfaction with secular ideologies and a desire for community and fulfillment.
Key Takeaways:



* Gen Z shows a significant curiosity about Jesus and the Bible.
* Many Gen Z individuals feel a void in their lives that they seek to fill.
* The church can provide a sense of community that Gen Z lacks online.
* Spiritual openness on college campuses is at an all-time high.
* Clarity on cultural issues is essential for engaging with Gen Z.
* The church should focus on gospel priority over political alignment.
* Many young people are coming to faith through authentic community.
* The rise in baptisms indicates a genuine spiritual revival among youth.
* Church leaders should emphasize identity in Christ to resonate with Gen Z.
* Engaging in conversations about controversial topics can lead to deeper understanding.



Dive more into this conversation with Pastor J.D.’s new book, Everyday Revolutionary, which explores how ordinary believers can live out the gospel in ways that transform their communities.
Episode Links:

Last week's episode: https://jdgreear.com/podcasts/are-christians-c…-the-culture-war/
Watch on YouTube: YouTube Channel
Listen on Apple Podcasts: Ask the Pastor
Listen on Spotify: Ask the Pastor
Become a Gospel Partner: jdgreear.com/donate

In this episode, Pastor J.D.  discusses a question many of us are asking ourselves right now, "Are Christians Called to the Culture War?"

As part of a short series surrounding Pastor J.D.’s new book Everyday Revolutionary, the conversation explains that while believers must be bold in truth, faithfulness to Jesus goes beyond cultural confrontation—it involves embodying grace and truth in everyday life. It’s not less than clarity on issues, but it’s much more.
Key Takeaways:
Pastor J.D. identifies five components of the “quiet life” that creates a “loud testimony” (1 Peter 3:15):

Creation-Fulfilling

Every job contributes to beautifying and ordering the world.
We’re co-creators with God, showing His glory through our work.


* Excellence-Pursuing

* Daniel had “an excellent spirit.”
* Work “as unto the Lord,” demonstrating God’s perfection through diligence and quality.


Holiness-Reflecting

Our ethics and integrity mirror the holiness of God.
Poor work or unethical behavior damages our witness.


Redemption-Displaying

* Extend grace in surprising ways.
Example: a Madison Avenue executive takes the blame for his intern’s costly mistake, using it as a gospel moment — “My life was transformed by someone who took my punishment.”


* Mission-Advancing

Excellence earns influence.
* Use platforms and opportunities to point to Jesus (Proverbs 22:29).



Dive more into this conversation with Pastor J.D.’s new book, Everyday Revolutionary, which explores how ordinary believers can live out the gospel in ways that transform their communities.
Episode Links:

Last week's episode: https://jdgreear.com/podcasts/should-pastors-be-more-political-from-the-pulpit/
Watch on YouTube: YouTube Channel
Listen on Apple Podcasts: Ask the Pastor
Listen on Spotify: Ask the Pastor
Become a Gospel Partner: jdgreear.com/donate

In this episode, Pastor J.D.  discusses a question many church leaders face: Should pastors be more political from the pulpit?

As part of a short series surrounding Pastor J.D.’s new book Everyday Revolutionary, the conversation explores how faithfulness to the gospel intersects with public issues, when to speak clearly, and when to show restraint.

J.D. argues that pastors must boldly proclaim biblical truth even when it overlaps with politics—but resist aligning the name of Jesus with any political party. Political engagement  is a result of discipleship, not the gateway to it.
Key Takeaways

Be bold on biblical truth, even when it’s political. Some moral issues, like the sanctity of life and God’s design for gender, require clear biblical conviction.
Don’t confuse political alignment with gospel faithfulness. The pulpit should be reserved for “thus says the Lord,” not personal policy opinions.
Discipleship precedes political realignment. True change begins in the heart before it’s reflected in the ballot box.
Avoid both ditches. On one side lies cowardly silence; on the other, a Christless conservatism that replaces the gospel with partisanship.
Keep Jesus’ name holy. Associating Christ too closely with a political party risks damaging His reputation and alienating those who need the gospel.

Dive more into this conversation with Pastor J.D.’s new book, Everyday Revolutionary, which explores how ordinary believers can live out the gospel in ways that transform their communities.
Episode Links:

Watch on YouTube: YouTube Channel
Listen on Apple Podcasts: Ask the Pastor
Listen on Spotify: Ask the Pastor
Become a Gospel Partner: jdgreer.com/donate

This week on Ask the Pastor, we have a special bonus episode on the question, "Which of the Bible's promises apply today?"

We covered a similar question several years ago, and you can find that episode HERE.

A glimpse inside this episode:

* The Bible contains approximately 3,000 promises from God.
* All promises of God are fulfilled in Christ.
* Understanding the context of promises is crucial for application.
* There are unconditional and conditional promises in the Bible.
* God's character remains consistent despite changing circumstances.
* Promises made to Israel can still have relevance today.
* The New Testament often cites Old Testament promises.
* Believers are encouraged to expect God's goodness in their lives now.
* Interpretation of scripture should consider the chaos of the world.
* Faith in God's promises is essential for spiritual growth.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, "Why Does It Matter?" with the question, "Why Does Correct Theology Matter?"

A glimpse inside this episode:

* Theological doctrine shapes our relationship with God and others.
* Understanding essential beliefs is crucial for unity in the church.
* Not all theological issues are of equal importance.
* Spiritual maturity involves developing strong convictions with restraint.
* Knowledge of God should not outpace our love for Him.
* The Bible emphasizes a proper view of God.
* We must discern between essential and non-essential beliefs.
* Personal opinions should not be equated with biblical truths.
* Theological study is important for all believers, not just seminarians.
* Unity in the church is vital for the integrity of the gospel.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, "Why Does It Matter?" with the question, "Why Does Everyday Faithfulness Matter?"

A glimpse inside this episode:

* Living a faithful life is essential, even in mundane tasks.
* Every believer has a role in God's mission, regardless of their position.
* Motherhood and domestic roles can be fulfilling and significant in God's eyes.
* Ordinary obedience can lead to extraordinary outcomes in God's plan.
* Faithfulness is what God desires from us in our daily lives.
* The quiet life can demonstrate the beauty of the gospel.
* Service to others is a calling for all believers.
* God uses ordinary people to accomplish his purposes.
* The influence of a godly mother can shape generations.
* Living remarkably in everyday life can attract others to Christ.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, "Why Does It Matter?" with the question, "Why Does the Existence of Hell Matter?"

A glimpse inside this episode:

* The doctrine of hell is crucial for understanding God's justice.
* Many people struggle with the concept of hell, leading to doubt.
* Biblical imagery of hell should be taken seriously, not metaphorically.
* The severity of hell reflects the infinite nature of God.
* Hell serves as a means to understand injustice in the world.
* God's judgment is an expression of His holiness and righteousness.
* Understanding hell magnifies the love of God in salvation.
* The conversation about hell is essential for a robust faith.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, "Why Does It Matter?" with the question, "Why Does Prayer Matter?"

A glimpse inside this episode:

* Prayer is essential for experiencing the fullness of joy.
* Unanswered prayer can be a part of God's better plan.
* Persistence in prayer is often necessary for receiving answers.
* Prayer is a means by which God accomplishes His will on earth.
* God's sovereignty does not negate the importance of prayer.
* Sometimes God answers prayers in ways we do not expect.
* Prayer changes us and the circumstances around us.
* The act of praying is a way to inhabit God's presence.
* Unanswered prayers can lead to spiritual growth and understanding.
* The gospel reassures us of God's constant presence and care.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. pauses his series called, "Why Does It Matter?" to answer a listener question about challenges of tithing when a spouse disagree.

A glimpse inside this episode:

* Tithing is a biblical command that reflects trust in God.
* Communication is key when spouses disagree on financial matters.
* It's important to honor each other's perspectives in marriage.
* Testing God through tithing can lead to personal testimonies of faithfulness.
* You can't give what you don't have authority over.
* Prayer is essential in changing hearts regarding financial decisions.
* Generosity can be demonstrated through small acts of giving.
* God values the spirit of generosity over the amount given.
* Mutual respect in financial decisions strengthens marriage.
* Encouragement and prayer can lead to shifts in financial perspectives.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, "Why Does It Matter?" with a question on why it matters to live a gospel-centered life.

A glimpse inside the episode:

* The gospel is central to every part of the Christian life.
* Living a gospel-centered life means returning to the gospel daily.
* The gospel fosters organic change rather than external pressure.
* Daily reminders of the gospel help combat idolatry and insecurity.
* The gospel prayer is a practical tool for spiritual growth.
* Understanding our identity in Christ is crucial for transformation.
* The gospel is not just a starting point but a lifelong journey.
* Faith in the gospel activates the Holy Spirit's power in our lives.
* Generosity flows from a heart transformed by the gospel.
* The gospel teaches us to desire what God desires.

 

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, "Why Does It Matter?" by diving into the significance of the virgin birth of Jesus.

A glimpse inside this episode:

* The virgin birth is crucial to understanding Jesus' identity.
* Jesus was born without a sin nature due to the virgin birth.
* The doctrine of the virgin birth is essential for salvation.
* Jesus had to be fully God and fully man to save us.
* The sin nature is passed down through the man's seed.
* Isaiah 7:14 prophesies the virgin birth of Jesus.
* The term 'Alma' in Hebrew contextually means virgin.
* Matthew's interpretation of Isaiah confirms the virgin birth.
* Jesus understands human experiences because he was fully man.
* The virgin birth leads us to worship God for His miraculous work.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D.pauses his "Why Does It Matter" series to answer a listener question who asked, "Are You Committed to Only Preaching Expositionally?"Pastor J.D. addresses some common questions and emphasizes the importance of grounding sermons in Scripture, the role of the preacher as a steward of God's word, and the overarching goal of discipleship in ministry.

A glimpse inside this episode:

* Expositional preaching is essential for the life of the church.
* The message should find its source in Scripture through careful exegesis.
* Preachers are stewards of God's word, responsible for delivering it faithfully.
* Discipleship is the primary goal of preaching.
* Feedback from the congregation is valuable and should be welcomed.
* Expositional preaching can still address topical issues when grounded in Scripture.
* A balanced diet of Scripture is important for congregational growth.
* Preaching should not be driven solely by personal preferences.
* Understanding the definitions of preaching styles helps clarify expectations.
* The focus should always be on the word of God, not personal opinions.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. continues his series called, "Why Does It Matter?" and focuses on why purity before marriage even matters by exploring the biblical stance on sexual ethics.

A glimpse inside this episode:

* Many people question why sex before marriage is a big deal.
* God's instructions on sex are rooted in wisdom and love.
* Sex is designed to bond two lives together, not just for pleasure.
* Casual sex can have lasting psychological effects.
* God's limitations on sex are meant to protect us from harm.
* Marriage is a covenant that signifies a deeper commitment.
* The church has sometimes failed to communicate the reasons behind sexual ethics.
* There is grace and redemption available for those who have sinned sexually.
* Sexual sin can rob individuals of feelings of cleanliness, safety, and specialness.
* God's grace is greater than our sins, offering hope and restoration.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. starts a brand new series called, "Why Does It Matter." Listen this week as he unpacks  the significance of the Bible's authority, inerrancy, and its role in Christian life.

A glimpse inside this episode:

* The Bible's authority is foundational to Christian faith.
* Understanding why the Bible matters is crucial for believers.
* The concept of inerrancy is essential for trusting scripture.
* The Bible presents itself as the word of God, not merely human thoughts.
* Historical context is important in interpreting scripture.
* The Bible has faced challenges and attacks throughout history.
* Scripture serves as the standard for moral and theological truths.
* Believers must wrestle with difficult passages and teachings.
* The Bible's message is ultimately about God's rescue through Jesus.
* Engaging with scripture is vital for spiritual growth and understanding.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. shares part two of his favorite books in 2024.

A glimpse inside this episode:

Pastor J.D. shares his favorite books from 2024 ranging from spiritual and secular literature.

* Forgive by Tim Keller
* The Unseen Realm: Recovering the Supernatural Worldview of the Bible by Dr. Michael Heiser
* Where the Light Fell: A Memoir by Philip Yancey
* The Courage to Be Protestant by Gavin Ortlund
* Martin Luther: The Man Who Rediscovered God and Changed the World by Eric Metaxas
* Jesus and the Powers by NT Wright and Michael Bird
* Ghosted: An American Story by Nancy French
* Spare by Prince Harry
* The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. shares his favorite books in 2024.

A glimpse inside this episode:

Pastor J.D. shares his favorite books from 2024 ranging from spiritual and secular literature.

* Bless God and Take Courage: The Judson History and Legacy: Rosalie Hall Hunt
* How to Know a Person, David Brooks
* Marks of a Movement: What the church Today Can Learn from the Wesleyan Revival, Winfield Bevins
* Surprised by Doubt: How Disillusionment Can Invite Us Into a Deeper Faith by Dr. Joshua Chatraw and Jack Carson
* Reading While Black: African American Biblical Interpretation as an Exercise in Hope by Esau McCaulley

A few secular books:

* The Rulebreaker: Biography of Barbara Walters
* Zero Fail: The Rise and Fall of the Secret Service, Carol Leonnig
* Open: An Autobiography, Andre Agassi
* TED Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking, Chris Anderson

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. answers “Should Followers of Jesus Get Plastic Surgery?”

A glimpse inside this episode:

There are many the nuances for Christians around plastic surgery, enhancing beauty, the cultural pressures surrounding appearance, and the importance of focusing on inner beauty and heart posture. While cosmetic enhancements are not inherently wrong, they should not become idols that dictate self-worth or decision-making.

* The question of cosmetic surgery is nuanced and complex.
* Enhancing beauty is not inherently wrong; it's about the heart behind it.
* Cultural pressures can lead to unhealthy decisions regarding appearance.
* The Bible encourages focusing on inner beauty rather than outward adornment.
* Idols related to beauty can lead to poor decision-making.
* Aging is a natural process that should be embraced, not fought against.
* Self-image should be rooted in God's love, not physical appearance.
* It's important to ask oneself if beauty and youth are idols.
* The inward person can be renewed even as the outward person deteriorates.
* Heart posture is crucial in making decisions about cosmetic enhancements.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. answers “Should Christians be concerned about AI?”

A glimpse inside this episode:

In this week's episode, Pastor J.D. looks at the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI) from a Christian perspective. While AI is a tool that can be used for good or bad, the underlying human nature can lead to the amplification of wickedness.

* AI raises questions about human dignity and moral agency.
* Bias and fairness in AI can exacerbate existing societal issues.
* Privacy concerns arise with the increasing use of AI.
* AI can impact employment and economic justice.
* Human enhancement through AI challenges our understanding of being made in God's image.
* The core of humanity is fallen, which can be magnified by AI.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. answers “Are Denominations Biblical?”

A glimpse inside this episode:

In this week's episode, Pastor J.D. explores the biblical basis for denominations while addressing common criticisms. While denominations may not be explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the concept of cooperation in the mission of the church is prevalent. Denominations serve as a practical tool for collaboration in advancing the mission of God.

* Denominations are not explicitly mentioned in the Bible.
* Cooperation among churches is a biblical principle.
* Different levels of cooperation require varying levels of doctrinal conformity.
* Movements and institutions are both necessary in the church.
* A unified authority does not guarantee doctrinal purity.
* Protestantism allows for recognition of valid churches outside its own.
* Denominations can facilitate mission advancement.
* The Bible is the ultimate authority for Christians.
* Historical context is crucial in understanding church authority.
* Denominations are tools for cooperation, not division.

This week on Ask the Pastor, Pastor J.D. answers a question that has actually been asked by two listeners, Lillian and Jesse: “Is it OK for Christians to do Yoga?”

A glimpse inside this episode:

In this week's episode, Pastor J.D. explores the historical roots of yoga in Eastern religions and how it contrasts with Christian meditation. He emphasizes the importance of individual conscience in making decisions about practices that may have spiritual implications while also introducing a framework for categorizing theological issues and highlighting the need for unity in the church while allowing for personal convictions.

* Yoga has historical roots in Eastern religions like Hinduism.
* Christian meditation differs from Eastern meditation in purpose.
* Believers should wrestle with their own conscience regarding yoga.
* Not all practices with pagan origins are off-limits for Christians.
* Unity in the church is more important than strict conformity on disputed matters.
* The framework of essential, important, and indifferent matters helps navigate faith issues.
* Personal convictions should guide individual practices like yoga.
* Jesus' authority supersedes the origins of certain practices.
* Engaging with differing opinions requires patience and understanding.
* Practices should honor Christ and align with biblical principles.