This audio comes from one of RENEW.org’s National Gatherings. Interested in joining one of our events? Check out upcoming events here: https://renew.org/resources/events/  Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology: https://renew.org/  The Power of Relational Discipleship: A Call to Follow Jesus' Model In this compelling talk, Jim Putman emphasizes the importance of relational discipleship, insisting that making disciples isn't just about imparting teachings – it's about forming transformative relationships. By examining Jesus' approach to disciple-making, which included personal relationships and modeling behavior, the speaker argues for a restoration of the church’s methodology to align with that of Jesus. The script underscores that true discipleship embodies love and relationship, challenging modern churches to adopt a more hands-on, relational approach to cultivate spiritually mature disciples who can change the world. Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Purpose 00:46 The Core Mission of the Church 01:51 Jesus as the Ultimate Disciple Maker 02:17 The Importance of Relational Discipleship 03:38 Defining Spiritual Maturity 04:36 The Greatest Commandment: Love and Relationship 06:04 The Role of the Church in Building Relationships 09:07 Jesus' Methodology vs. Modern Church Practices 14:33 The Wrestling Analogy for Discipleship 19:46 Conclusion: Building a Winning Team

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us understand the transformative power of incorporating prayer and fasting into our spiritual practices, leading to deeper personal and communal spiritual growth. In this episode titled "Prayer and Fasting Ministry in Your Church," the speaker passionately emphasizes the importance of incorporating prayer and fasting into the spiritual practices of a church community. The presentation begins with a warm welcome and a logistical check to ensure everyone has necessary materials. The speaker highlights the significance of starting their time together with prayer, asking for God's presence and blessings on their discussions about spiritual disciplines, particularly prayer and fasting. The speaker shares personal insights and experiences, underscoring the transformative power of spiritual disciplines when integrated into everyday life. Emphasis is placed on prayer as a critical component of spiritual growth and ministry effectiveness. The speaker recounts how consistent prayer can lead to significant changes, both personally and within a church community. Anecdotes are shared to illustrate how prayer and fasting are frequently practiced by those who seek a deeper relationship with God and those who wish to bring about meaningful changes in their ministries. The narrative transitions into an examination of the frequency and importance of prayer in Jesus' life, highlighting that Jesus often retreated to solitary places to pray, showing the importance of finding time and space for uninterrupted communion with God. The speaker stresses that effective prayer requires dedication, discipline, and a genuine desire to communicate with God. Moving to the topic of fasting, the speaker defines fasting and describes it as abstaining from food or drinks (or other significant activities) for a designated period to focus on spiritual growth and God's purposes. The speaker clarifies fasting can extend beyond abstaining from food to include activities such as solitude, demonstrating that the essence of fasting is dedicating time to spiritual pursuits and seeking God's guidance. The speaker outlines various types of fasting observed in the Bible, including normal fasting (abstaining from food and drinking only water), partial fasting (abstaining from certain types of food), and absolute fasting (no food or water). They also discuss individual, group, and national fasts, emphasizing that fasting can be a powerful communal activity for a church. Practical advice on starting a fasting practice is provided, advising beginners to start small, such as fasting through one meal, and gradually extending the fasting period as they grow more comfortable. The speaker also offers guidance on planning, communicating with family, and ensuring fasting does not negatively impact health. Throughout the episode, the speaker highlights that fasting should be coupled with prayer, reading scripture, and reflecting on one’s spiritual journey. They also remind listeners that God is pleased when His followers make sacrifices through fasting, underscoring the spiritual benefits and joys that come from engaging in these disciplines. In closing, the speaker encourages the audience to persist in their practices of prayer and fasting, promising that these disciplines will lead to personal and communal spiritual growth. They conclude with a heartfelt prayer, blessing everyone in the group and their respective ministries, stressing that through prayer and fasting, believers can draw closer to God and experience His power in transformative ways.

This audio comes from one of RENEW.org’s National Gatherings. Interested in joining one of our events? Check out upcoming events here: https://renew.org/resources/events/  Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology: https://renew.org/  The Importance of Baptism in Christian Faith: A Biblical Perspective In this episode, we dive into the significance of baptism in Christian doctrine, drawing from the life of Jesus and the teachings in the Gospel of Luke. The speaker emphasizes the biblical and historical aspects of baptism, exploring how current practices and understandings may deviate from original texts. Through references to Greek terminology, early translations, and theological implications, the discussion sheds light on the necessity of immersion as the intended form of baptism. The episode also connects baptism to the broader promise of blessings through Abraham, highlighting the continuity from Old Testament promises to New Testament fulfillment. Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Biblical Teachings 01:07 The Context of Luke 7:11-35 02:06 John's Baptism and Its Significance 03:39 The Great Commission and Modern Misinterpretations 05:59 Historical and Theological Perspectives on Baptism 08:06 The Greek Lexicon and Biblical Translation 11:19 Theological Aspects of Immersion 13:15 Paul and Peter's Understanding of Baptism 15:09 Connecting Gentile Christians to Abraham's Promise 18:03 Conclusion: The Global Significance of Baptism

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us understand how structured internships and residencies can develop effective leaders for new church plants, ensuring sustainable growth within church communities. In this episode titled "Internships and Residencies," Sean Cronin, the training lead at Passion for Planting, and Patrick Ferguson from New Life Christian Church, discuss the importance of internships and residencies in fostering leadership development within church communities. Sean opens by welcoming attendees to the workshop, sharing the mission of Passion for Planting, and introducing Patrick, who will cover internships while Sean will address residencies. Sean highlights the significance of leadership development, emphasizing the critical need to support young leaders through structured programs like internships and residencies to address the ongoing demand for church plants. He cites statistics that illustrate the decline of churches in the United States, juxtaposed with growing population rates, underscoring the urgency to equip new leaders to plant churches.   Patrick delves into the nature of internships at New Life Christian Church, emphasizing investment in personal development and ministry skills rather than viewing interns as free labor. He describes the recruitment process, which is largely relational and involves tapping into networks, colleges, and references from former interns. Once recruited, interns are matched with roles within the church that align with their interests and strengths, ensuring a beneficial learning experience. An intern coach provides guidance, spiritual development, and organizes group activities, fostering a supportive community. Sean returns to outline the residency program created in 2015, designed for future church planters. This program spans nine months and includes weekly Zoom meetings and two onsite intensives to provide comprehensive training, vision clarification, and strategic planning. Various stories of past residents, from diverse backgrounds and experiences, illustrate how the residency prepares participants for successful church planting. Sean emphasizes the collaborative nature of the residency, where participants share insights, support each other, and learn from experienced leaders. The discussion also tackles the crucial qualities to look for in potential church planters, such as humility, teachability, and leadership skills. Sean advises hosting "I see in you" conversations to identify and encourage potential leaders who may not recognize their own calling to ministry. He stresses the importance of formal assessment and training to ensure church planters are adequately prepared for the challenges ahead. Questions from the audience are addressed, clarifying the actionable steps for different scenarios, whether for ongoing internships or potential residents. For instance, it is noted that residency programs are typically post-college and last nine to twelve months, whereas internships are generally over the summer. Patrick explains how the program involves personalized support, with each intern or resident being provided a coach and clear pathways for development. The episode wraps up with Sean inviting interested parties to an upcoming webinar and a lunch meeting to learn more about the renew movement, a network initiative aimed at empowering churches to plant new congregations. The Q&A session provides further insights into practical details, program structure, and how churches can support aspiring leaders through well-structured internships and residencies. Overall, this episode offers a detailed exploration of how strategic programs can nurture leadership within the church community, ensuring the growth and sustainability of new church plants.  

This audio comes from one of RENEW.org’s National Gatherings. Interested in joining one of our events? Check out upcoming events here: https://renew.org/resources/events/  Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Embracing a Third Culture Church: Navigating Post-Christian Society with Christian Ray Join Christian Ray, as he dives into the concept of a 'third culture' church. Drawing from his personal journey from post-communist Russia to leading a vibrant church in America, Christian explores the importance of cultural flexibility in today's post-Christian world. He shares compelling stories and biblical insights on how the church can influence the changing culture by going where people are, loving the 'wrong crowd,' and embodying the transformative power of truth. Discover how to maintain a dynamic, multi-cultural faith community that reflects the diverse society around us. Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Speaker Background 00:47 Understanding Post-Christian Culture 02:56 The Concept of Third Culture 03:41 Personal Journey and Cultural Flexibility 05:17 First Culture vs. Second Culture 07:16 The Call for a Third Culture Church 10:01 Examples of Third Culture in Action 13:53 Challenges and Personal Stories 17:28 Conclusion: Embracing Third Culture

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us understand the profound impact of cultural intelligence on the growth and adaptation of the Latino Christian community within diverse and evolving urban centers in the United States. The provided script titled "Latino Christian Movement" features a discussion and workshop led by Alex Diaz, the campus pastor at Trader Point Christian Church’s Midtown campus. The episode focuses on cultural intelligence and the growth and adaptation of the Latino Christian community in the United States. Alex begins by introducing himself, sharing his background of immigrating from Venezuela to the U.S. and detailing his ministry journey across several states. He highlights significant demographic changes in cities like Indianapolis, depicting the rise in Latino populations and the proliferation of Hispanic restaurants even in traditionally white supremacist areas. The core of the workshop hinges on the concept of cultural intelligence, which is described as the ability to function effectively in culturally diverse settings. Alex explains the rapid demographic shifts occurring in the U.S., showcased by census data, and how these shifts indicate a future where urban centers will predominantly consist of minority communities, particularly Hispanic and multiracial groups. He emphasizes the importance of adapting church practices to reflect current and anticipated demographic realities, noting common misconceptions and anxieties about cultural change. Alex is joined by Pastor Miguel Lara of White River Christian Church, who shares his journey from Venezuela to the U.S., focusing on his experiences in leading a Hispanic ministry within a predominantly Anglo church. Miguel underscores the value of mutual respect, shared meals, and activities in fostering cross-cultural friendships and unity. He highlights various outreach programs, including sports ministries, marriage seminars, and mentoring initiatives, which have successfully integrated Hispanic members into the church community. Pastor Miguel also details practical steps his church has taken to serve and grow their Hispanic congregation, such as bilingual online presence, ESL programs, and culturally relevant outreach like the music program “Elma,” inspired by a similar initiative in Venezuela aimed at keeping youth engaged through orchestral music. Throughout the episode, multiple facets of building and sustaining multicultural congregations are discussed, including the importance of friendship, learning from each other, and leveraging existing church structures and processes. In conclusion, Alex and Miguel’s stories highlight the broader strategic and operational measures necessary for churches to adapt to and embrace cultural diversity. They underline the inevitable demographic changes sweeping the U.S. and the need for churches to develop cultural intelligence as part of their mission to effectively minister to increasingly diverse communities.

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us understand how to holistically follow all of Jesus' commands, ensuring a balanced approach in personal discipleship and church community life. The episode revolves around understanding how thoroughly and holistically believers and church communities are adhering to the commands of Jesus. The speaker initiates the discussion by posing several reflective questions, emphasizing the potential neglect of specific commands either individually or within church groups. He highlights the Great Commission, which instructs disciples to obey all of Jesus' teachings, not selectively. A significant portion of the talk explores Jeff's sabbatical experiences, including his exploration of different Christian traditions such as the Jesuits, Desert Fathers and Mothers, and other historical church movements. These observations lead him to identify strengths and weaknesses in various church eras, such as the evangelical zeal of the early church and the doctrinal clarity but occasional superficial faith in later periods. Jeff advocates for a balanced approach to following Jesus' commands, cautioning against the common tendency to focus on preferred teachings while ignoring others. He stresses the importance of maintaining a holistic discipleship that includes personal spiritual practices, community life, and mission work. Practical implications for churches and individuals include reading the Gospels continuously, journaling to enhance obedience, focusing on the application of teachings rather than mere accumulation of knowledge, and consistently seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit. Church programming should prioritize biblical exposition of the Gospels and foster a culture of obedience and testimony sharing. The episode concludes with suggestions for churches to evaluate their practices and leadership structures. A collaborative team approach informed by Ephesians 4:11-16 can help ensure a balanced ministry. Churches should develop new metrics to measure success in spiritual growth holistically, rather than simply numerical growth or attendance. Finally, Jeff encourages listeners to stay vigilant about their devotion to Jesus' teachings and praises the potential for varied expressions of obedience across different times, cultures, and communities. He invites feedback and ongoing conversation on achieving comprehensive obedience to Jesus' commands in both individual and church life.

Check out RENEW.org's Jobs board: https://jobs.renew.org/  Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us understand how to effectively find, attract, and integrate ministerial staff through modern strategies and interim solutions for enhanced church leadership transition. In this episode titled "How to Find Ministerial Staff," Greg Comp, a retired vocational minister, provides a detailed guide on effective strategies for churches to find ministerial staff.  Greg discusses his experience with Next Step Church Services and Renew.org, delineating the collaborative efforts in helping churches connect with suitable pastoral candidates. He highlights the challenges that churches face today due to outdated word-of-mouth and traditional networks that have largely become ineffective. He emphasizes the strategic value of having an interim pastor to guide churches through transitions, pointing out the benefits of intentional versus unintentional interim leadership. He argues that many churches have an inflated view of their attractiveness, which can deter candidates in a competitive pastoral marketplace. He calls for churches to make a paradigm shift rather than just seeking a quick personnel change. Greg also lists various interim solutions for churches in between pastors, such as rotations of current staff, weekend supply preaching, and part-time interim pastors. He shares insights on the challenges and inefficacies experienced with these approaches and advocates for intentional interim pastorship as the best practice. Specific tools and resources are discussed, including steps to create online postings for ministerial positions that attract high-quality candidates. He advises keeping these postings simple and focused on the church and community profiles while deferring detailed qualifications and responsibilities until later in the process. Greg further elaborates on how Renew.org's job board functions, illustrating how both churches and candidates can leverage it to find matches suitable for their needs. He underscores the importance of keeping listings current and compelling to stimulate interest and facilitate conversations. In conclusion, Greg re-emphasizes the value of interim pastors, describing their role in conducting health assessments of churches to identify areas needing improvement before a new permanent pastor is installed.

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us identify and avoid theological heresies by grounding our beliefs in the apostolic tradition, embracing the unity of God, and understanding the holistic nature of salvation. This episode, titled "How to be a Heretic," is a comprehensive discussion led by Chad Harrington who is both a business owner and a church ordination leader. The speaker dives into their diverse background, which includes theological training at Ozark Christian College and Asbury Theological Seminary, a brief stint in content marketing, and the founding of a media company focused on self-publishing and traditional book publishing. Their journey highlights a non-traditional calling to teach and write for the church.

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us understand the delicate balance between grace and truth in addressing the challenges of Progressive Christianity, through the lens of personal transformation and effective discipleship. This episode, titled "Dangers of Progressive Christianity," features a workshop led by Daniel McCoy, Editorial Director of renew.org, and his guest Dave Stovall, a recording artist, worship leader, and author of "Losing My Faith in Progressive Christianity." The workshop aims to address the challenges and perils associated with Progressive Christianity through Dave’s personal journey. Daniel introduces Dave, thanking the audience for attending and sets the tone with a prayer, emphasizing empathy and wisdom in addressing the topic. Dave begins by sharing his background in a Southern Baptist church in Alabama, where he experienced teaching focused rigidly on black-and-white issues, leading him to question the interpretation of various scriptures. Dave describes his college years as a period of deep spiritual struggle, where he felt disconnected from God and faced criticism when he expressed doubts. His journey into Progressive Christianity began as he sought guidance from authors and bloggers, whose alternative theological perspectives resonated with him. This shift culminated in his adoption of progressive and universalist beliefs, particularly influenced by Rob Bell’s "Love Wins." Despite initially feeling liberated and guilt-free under these new beliefs, Dave encountered a turning point when he became a father and questioned what faith he should instill in his children. This led him to a pivotal moment of sincere prayer, asking God to reveal the truth, regardless of where it led him. Subsequently, Dave met Bobby Harrington from Harpeth Christian Church, who played a crucial role in guiding him back to a more traditional understanding of Christianity. Bobby’s approach involved patient mentorship, emphasizing the importance of understanding the original intent of scriptures, historical context, and guiding Dave through a process of rebuilding his faith within a supportive community. Throughout the workshop, Dave shares insights on the seductive appeal of Progressive Christianity, especially its emphasis on compassion and empathy, and the potential it holds for leading individuals away from foundational Christian beliefs. He highlights the importance of balancing grace and truth, suggesting that this balance is essential for genuine love and effective ministry. Daniel supplements the discussion by addressing how to define Progressive Christianity and the distinctions between essentials of faith, important beliefs, and personal preferences. He stresses the necessity of theological alignment within church leadership and the dangers of a church culture that leans too heavily on grace without truth. The workshop closes with practical advice for church leaders on fostering an environment where questions and doubts can be addressed openly without fear of judgment. The speakers emphasize the crucial role of discipleship and community in preventing young people from drifting into Progressive Christianity. In conclusion, the episode provides a comprehensive exploration of Dave Stovall’s personal transformation from a Progressive Christian back to traditional faith, underscoring the importance of maintaining theological integrity while practicing compassion. The discussion is enriched by reflections on the relationship between empathy, truth, and discipleship within the church. It serves as both a cautionary tale and a guide for those navigating similar spiritual challenges.

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us understand the foundational principles and strategies for effective church planting, emphasizing reliance on divine guidance, addressing challenges, and ensuring doctrinal soundness for sustainable growth. In this episode of "Church Planting," the speaker delves into the foundational principles and motivations for starting new churches. The central theme revolves around reliance on divine guidance, as captured by Psalm 127:1, emphasizing that unless the Lord builds the house, labor is in vain. The speaker reinforces the need for absolute confidence in Jesus to build the church, highlighting that human effort alone is insufficient without divine support. The discussion transitions to the "why" of church planting, rooted in addressing the lostness of people akin to sheep without a shepherd. This point is emphasized with personal anecdotes, such as observing aimless shoppers at Wegmans and Vince Antonucci's transformation from a non-Christian skeptic to a passionate church planter motivated by his previous lostness. The speaker also acknowledges the significant challenges faced in church planting, such as feelings of unfruitfulness, betrayal, and scarcity of resources. He cites the importance of resilience and God's calling to reach lost people as the sustaining force during tough times. The narrative shifts to historical insights from the Book of Acts, illustrating the explosive growth of the early church through continuous discipleship and church planting, moving from addition to multiplication. The episode then explores the critical aspects of ensuring the health and doctrinal soundness of new churches. The speaker warns against the dangers of doctrinal drift and the potential for churches to adopt popular but unbiblical stances. This concern leads into a detailed explanation of the Renew Movement's approach to church planting, emphasizing sound theology, disciple-making, and structured support systems like assessment, training, and coaching. The Renew Movement aims to catalyze a church planting movement of healthy churches, overcoming common fears such as scarcity of resources, lack of expertise, and long-term health. The discussion underscores the importance of ordinary churches becoming church planting churches, challenging the notion that only large, resource-rich congregations can plant churches. The Renew Movement's unique strategy involves collaborative partnerships among churches—both large and small—to support new plants. This model includes financial contributions, shared leadership, and hands-on involvement, fostering a sense of ownership and vision among all participating congregations. The goal is to create a sustainable cycle of churches planting churches, reaching lost people, and expanding God's kingdom. In conclusion, the episode emphasizes the need for a shift from church growth to kingdom growth, highlighting the importance of surrender to Jesus' lordship and genuine discipleship. The speaker calls for a collective effort among churches to embrace the mission of church planting, ensuring doctrinal soundness and long-term health to effectively expand the kingdom of God. The session ends with a prayer, reaffirming the commitment to follow Jesus' guidance in building His church.

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us understand the essential principles and practices for creating and maintaining a thriving, disciple-making church culture, emphasizing intentionality, accountability, and the power of community. "Disciple Making Culture" is an in-depth episode focusing on the journey and principles behind creating a thriving, disciple-making church culture. The conversation begins with the speakers, a father and son duo who planted a church in 2004 near St. Louis, sharing their experiences of church growth and the subsequent planting of other churches. A pivotal moment comes when a mentor, Bobby, recognizes the importance of their deliberate culture and urges them to protect it. The speakers emphasize the distinction between a church with disciple makers and a disciple-making church. They outline key principles, starting with crystallizing what it means to be a disciple and ensuring all church leaders are on the same page. They argue that a clear, biblical definition of discipleship aids in shaping a culture where making disciples is central. Following this, they stress the importance of integrating discipleship from the very beginning of the conversion process. They describe a structured approach where new believers are taken through studies to ingrain the principles of discipleship deeply from the start, emphasizing that every member is expected to be a disciple and a disciple maker. The discussion highlights the necessity of accountability and modeling by leaders. Leaders are called to be examples, not just instructors, as hypocrisy among leaders can severely damage the church's mission. Celebrating successes and correcting drifts are also crucial to maintaining the church's culture, ensuring that minor deviations do not become major issues. The speakers share personal anecdotes to illustrate their points, including the transformation of individuals through dedicated discipleship and the impact of a supportive church culture on their own families. They mention the importance of creating systems and rhythms that reinforce discipleship, using events, retreats, and conferences to keep the focus on disciple-making. Ultimately, the episode underscores the challenges and rewards of maintaining a disciple-making culture. It highlights that while such a structure might limit church growth in terms of numbers, it profoundly impacts the quality of spiritual growth and commitment among members. The conversation reflects a passionate plea for churches to return to biblical principles of discipleship, emphasizing intentionality, accountability, and the power of community in fostering lasting spiritual transformation.

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us navigate LGBTQ+ issues within Christianity by balancing compassionate engagement and traditional biblical teachings, encouraging hospitable conversations and deeper understanding. The episode centers around a class led by Guy Hammond, the executive director of Strength in Weakness Ministries, which aims to help Christians navigate issues related to LGBTQ+ individuals from a perspective of traditional biblical sexual ethics. The session highlights that churches must discuss culturally relevant and controversial topics such as LGBTQ+ issues to remain pertinent. Guy begins by introducing himself and explaining the purpose and history of his ministry, which has grown to support Christians across 90 countries by running support groups for homosexually attracted Christians and parents with LGBTQ+ children. Guy shares his personal journey, detailing his early life as a gay man, his struggles with faith, and his eventual decision to embrace Christianity while rejecting homosexual practices. He emphasizes that he did not choose his attractions but believes that living according to biblical teachings requires celibacy for homosexually attracted individuals. He also discusses his late wife Kathy's pragmatic approach to his future remarriage and his current marriage to Laura, demonstrating his perspective on love and companionship within a Christian framework. Ellen Radcliffe, the Ministry's Chief Operating Officer, also speaks, sharing her similar background of living a lesbian lifestyle before turning to faith. Ellen underscores the importance of leading others to fall in love with God rather than merely adhering to a set of beliefs. She discusses her therapeutic work and her belief in the "messy middle space," a term describing the intersection of truth and grace where Christians can accept people without necessarily approving of their actions. Ellen asserts that understanding individuals as beloved children of God is crucial to navigating LGBTQ+ conversations within Christianity. The session covers practical strategies for churches to engage with LGBTQ+ topics, emphasizing the difference between acceptance and approval, and the necessity of hospitality toward those who are different. Guy argues that many Christians are not homophobic but rather uneducated about LGBTQ+ issues, which leads to avoidance behaviors. He stresses that the transformation into a Christian life is not quick and that churches should be prepared to welcome LGBTQ+ individuals for extended periods while they navigate their faith journey. Guy outlines four key messages for engaging with LGBTQ+ individuals: God’s unconditional love, the freedom to live as one chooses, the trustworthiness of the Bible, and the high but worthwhile cost of following Jesus. He underscores the need for Christians to demonstrate the superiority of a life with Jesus over a life without by being exemplary in their own faith and knowledge of Christ. The episode concludes by offering workshops and educational materials, including a new book and a documentary that Guy hopes will aid churches in addressing LGBTQ+ topics effectively. Guy invites ministers and church leaders to engage with his ministry for further training and support, thereby equipping themselves to handle these issues with compassion, truth, and hospitality.  

Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Check out our 2025 RENEW Gathering Digital Access Pass:  https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Today’s episode will help us understand the theological and social perspectives surrounding the inclusion and fear experienced by African Americans in the context of Christian unity. Orpheus. Heyward discusses the importance of theological foundations, focusing on the Great Commission and the inclusivity of the Gospel for all ethnic groups. It highlights the biblical story of Peter's vision in Acts 10, emphasizing God's acceptance of ethnic diversity. Orpheus. Heyward addresses the historical trauma faced by African Americans, particularly in the context of religious exclusion and the formation of the black church. The need for understanding and addressing these historical wounds is stressed, particularly within predominantly Caucasian religious spaces. The speaker shares personal experiences and suggests open dialogue and empathy as key steps towards racial unity and reconciliation within the Christian community. Examples include discussions on the Trayvon Martin and George Floyd incidents and the importance of including African American narratives in the larger Christian history. The message concludes with a call for authentic inclusion, collaboration on the mission of God, and the significance of understanding historical pain to create a more inclusive and unified Christian community.

Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Check out our free eBook on: Facing Your Church’s Future: 6 Steps to Consider in 10 Minutes https://renew.org/product/facing-your-churchs-future-6-steps-to-consider-in-10-minutes/  Today’s episode will help us understand the crucial role of love, mercy, and compassion in the modern church and how we can engage the younger generation in revitalizing the mission of the Christian faith. Mike Williams addresses the perception that contemporary church practices have become inward-focused, missing their broader societal impact. He discusses the concerns of young Christians who find traditional churches irrelevant and instead pursue non-profit initiatives to address human suffering. The speaker draws on historical examples and biblical teachings to stress the need for a modern restoration of the church's commitment to love, mercy, and compassion, akin to the early Christian community's transformative influence on Roman society. Emphasizing an apostolic response over antagonism or apathy, the call is for the church to engage actively in redemptive work, thereby reclaiming its relevance and effectively spreading the teachings of Jesus.

Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Check out our free eBook on: Preview of Holy Spirit: Filled, Empowered, and Led https://renew.org/product/preview-of-holy-spirit-filled-empowered-and-led/  Today’s episode will help us understand the critical need to develop effective leadership pipelines within the Independent Christian Church in America to ensure its growth and sustainability. Doug Crozier discusses the growth and challenges of the Independent Christian Church in America. He highlights the rapid increase in large congregations since the early 90s and attributes the growth to non-denominationalism, a strong belief in the Word of God, and leadership development. Doug Crozier criticizes the decline in Christian college enrollment for ministry degrees, linking it to financial concerns and inadequate pastoral compensation. Proposed solutions include better financial support for pastors, building endowments for Bible colleges, and substantial contributions from megachurch leaders. The need for pastoral care and maintaining current leaders to ensure ongoing growth is also emphasized.

Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Check out our free eBook on: Revisiting the Master Plan of Evangelism https://renew.org/product/demo-ebook-post-01-copy-2/  Today’s episode will help us understand the importance of disciple making and how to practically apply the principles of Jesus' ministry to modern-day church cultures. Josh Howard discusses the crucial importance of good theology and experiencing the love of Christ in relationships. He emphasizes the insufficiency of programs, great preaching, praise, worship, and social justice alone. Instead, it advocates for a return to Jesus' method of disciple making. Josh Howard highlights a recent study revealing that only 1 in 19 churches focus on disciple making. Josh Howard, a missionary in India for 15 years, shares his journey of learning discipleship from Indian believers who modeled profound faith and sacrifice. He notes the success of a disciple-making movement that has led to over 130,000 conversions. The script calls for unity among Christians, focusing on Jesus' mission and the urgent need for discipleship to fulfill the Great Commission.

Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Check out our free eBook on: Preview of Holy Spirit: Filled, Empowered, and Led https://renew.org/product/preview-of-holy-spirit-filled-empowered-and-led/  Today’s episode will help us understand the indispensable role of the Holy Spirit in personal and communal spiritual growth through the teachings and experiences shared by Dave Clayton. Dave Clayton emphasizes the necessity of the Holy Spirit's presence in ministry. He begins with a prayer and a personal anecdote of the speaker forgetting his soon-to-be wife at their rehearsal dinner. This story serves as a parable illustrating how ministers can easily focus on tasks and strategies, neglecting the Holy Spirit, akin to attending a party but missing the presence of the guest of honor. Dave Clayton argues that true ministry must involve intimate fellowship with the Holy Spirit, citing biblical examples of Jesus' reliance on the Spirit. Key points include the Holy Spirit affirming leaders' identity as children of God, providing freedom from sin, enabling abundant fruitfulness, and offering deep spiritual fullness. Dave Clayton calls for humility, holiness, and hunger for the Spirit's guidance to rejuvenate the church's mission.

Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Check out our free eBook on: Becoming a Disciple Maker: The Pursuit of Level 5 Disciple Making https://renew.org/product/becoming-a-disciple-maker-the-pursuit-of-level-5-disciple-making/  Today’s episode will help us understand the deep divisions in society and the church, as well as explore how different ideological 'caps' can shape our beliefs and actions. Daniel McCoy discusses the deep political and ideological divisions within Christian families and churches, highlighting the tension between conservative and progressive viewpoints. He introduces two archetypal church members, Spencer the Specifist, who demands more specific and conservative preaching, and Amber the Ambiguous, who advocates for a more inclusive and less definitive approach. Daniel McCoy then draws parallels between modern political divisions and historic events, like the French Revolution and Constantine's reign, cautioning against aligning the gospel too closely with political ideologies. It also explains the impact of intersectional feminism on Christian beliefs and emphasizes the need to balance social justice and biblical teachings without succumbing to polarized, ready-made versions of the gospel.

Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Check out our free eBook on: Multipliers: A summary of the best church planting insights by the co-founder and CEO of the world’s largest gathering of church planters every year. https://renew.org/product/multipliers/  Today’s episode will help us understand the importance of making disciples who make disciples, starting new churches, and ensuring that these churches remain committed to biblical teaching and authority. This episode features Brett Andrews talking about the importance of discipleship and church planting as central to the mission of spreading the teachings of Jesus. Emphasizing that discipleship should naturally lead to the development of new churches, the speaker explains that New Life’s vision aligns with Passion for Planting and the Renew Movement, aiming to create a church-planting network. The episode highlights the need for individual disciples to grow and make disciples, eventually leading to reproducing churches and networks. The significance of proper theological foundations and accountability in new church plants is stressed, advocating for adherence to biblical teachings. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of community and structured support for church planters.