In today’s episode, Dr. Brent guides you through a sacred self-inventory — not around your goals, but your identity with the help of Pastor Keren Emmauel (Arise Church’s Riverview Location Pastor). This episode is for anyone sensing a holy restlessness… that the season you’re in may be expiring, and something new is trying to be born. Using framework insights from Halftime by Bob Buford and The Second Half by Patrick Morley, Dr. Brent unpacks 7 catalytic questions that will help you clarify who you are becoming… before life decides it for you.     7 Questions from Today’s Episode: Who do I actually want — or need — to become in this next season of life? What parts of my current identity need to die so something better can live? What would obedience or faithfulness look like in this season? What grace is lifting — and where do I already sense new grace appearing? What pace is God calling me to run — compared to past seasons? What would be the bold move? What would be the wise move? What is the holy move? What specific goals should I now create, based on the answers above?   Mentioned in Today’s Episode: 📚 Halftime: Moving from Success to Significance by Bob Bufordhttps://www.amazon.com/Halftime-Moving-Success-Significance/dp/031034375X 📚 The Second Half: Real Stories, Real Men, Real Faith by Patrick Morleyhttps://www.amazon.com/Second-Half-Real-Stories-Faith/dp/0310284290   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen on Podbean or any podcast platform:https://creatingthefuture.podbean.com/  

Welcome to Creating The Future with Dr. Brent Simpson where we dive into stories, truths, and deep questions that help shape our faith, our families, and our future.In today’s episode I open up about the intentional rites of passage I created for my sons — including the moment I took one of them to Washington, D.C., laid hands on him, and called him into manhood. We explore:·Why nearly every culture in history created rites of passage — and why the modern West is an exception·The devastating effects of that vacuum (prolonged adolescence, identity confusion, reckless risk-taking)·The one core question every boy is asking: Do I have what it takes? — and why that question must be answered by a father·Biblical and historic roots of initiation and blessing (Bar Mitzvahs, Maasai warriors, Quinceañeras, baptism as a rite of passage)·Neuroscience meets discipleship — why meaningful, emotional, set-apart experiences become permanently imprinted·The 6 elements of a powerful rite of passage every father can create at any age·Why fathers must speak identity and affirmation — or culture will do it for them·A call to action for every dad, mentor, or leader listening This may be one of the most important conversations I’ve ever initiated — because if we do not initiate the young, they will burn down the village to feel the heat.✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com💬 MyAriseChurch.com Listen to the Podcast Anywhere: https://creatingthefuture.podbean.com/

📖 Episode Description:Smartphones are everywhere, and for today’s youth, they can be both a tool and a trap. In this special conversation, I sit down with Pastor Jeff Allen (Arise Brandon Location Pastor) and Arise Youth Leader Jiovanni Cintron to talk about everything parents should know before giving their child a phone. Together we unpack: When is the right age to give a child their first phone. The apps every parent needs to install to help guard against online predators and pornography. The warning signs that your child may be engaging with inappropriate content. How phones affect mental health, identity, and relationships in teenagers. Practical steps for building trust, accountability, and boundaries around technology. How parents can lead—not just restrict—so kids see phones as a tool, not a trap. This episode is filled with wisdom, practical tools, and candid conversation to help you parent with confidence in the digital age.   👤 About the Guests Pastor Jeff Allen: A leader with many years of experience around equipping families and students to navigate culture with wisdom and faith. Jiovanni Cintron: Arise Youth Leader, speaking from real-life experience working with teens in today’s smartphone-driven world.   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen to the Podcast Audio: Podbean

📖 Episode Description:Few names in history spark as much debate as Christopher Columbus. For some, he’s a bold explorer who changed the course of history. For others, he represents oppression, cruelty, and colonization. But what’s the truth? In this special Columbus Day conversation, I sit down with Rafael Ortiz—author of Christopher Columbus The Hero and Christopher Columbus The Hero 2—to dig into the history, controversy, and modern revisionism surrounding Columbus. Together, we explore: Why Columbus has become one of the most polarizing figures in modern culture. The strongest accusations against him—and how historical sources actually measure up. What primary records (like journals and legal documents) reveal about his leadership. How 15th-century context changes the way we interpret his actions today. Why Columbus statues, holidays, and education have become cultural battlegrounds. What lessons we can draw from history about how to handle controversial figures today. Whether you’ve grown up celebrating Columbus Day or questioning it, this episode will challenge assumptions and invite you to see the story through a fresh lens.   👤 Guest Bio – Rafael OrtizRafael Ortiz is a researcher and author committed to re-examining the life and legacy of Christopher Columbus. His books, including Christopher Columbus The Hero and its sequel, tackle the accusations that have fueled modern debates, using primary sources and historical analysis to paint a fuller picture of the explorer’s life. 📚 Find Rafael’s books on Columbus here: https://www.christophercolumbusthehero.com/p/books-written-or-published-by-rafael.html   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen to the Podcast Audio: Podbean

📖 Episode Description:In this episode, I sit down with Steven Widner, University of South Florida Chi Alpha Director, to unpack one of the most pressing questions facing young adults today: Is it a good practice to live together before marriage? Drawing from a detailed study and years of ministry experience, we tackle: The cultural rise of cohabitation and why it seems so normal. What research reveals about the long-term impact of living together before marriage. Why the Bible points us to a better way—and how this affects our walk with Christ. How cohabitation often undermines trust, commitment, and God’s design for marriage. Practical steps for those already living together who want to honor God moving forward. This honest conversation is designed to challenge assumptions, bring biblical clarity, and encourage young believers to pursue relationships God’s way.   👤 Guest – Steven WidnerSteven Widner is the Chi Alpha Campus Director at the University of South Florida, where he disciples students, raises leaders, and addresses tough cultural issues with Biblical truth. His passion is helping young adults experience authentic community and walk in the fullness of God’s calling for their lives.   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen to the Podcast Audio: Podbean

📖 Episode Description:In this episode of Creating the Future, we continue the More Than Me series with a powerful look at the mission of the Church. The Church is not just about attracting crowds or offering self-help. It exists to be a Kingdom outpost—a place where heaven touches earth. In this message we explore: Why the Kingdom of God is both a present reality and a future inheritance. How Jesus has given us power and authority to bring freedom, healing, and transformation. What it looks like to live as representatives of heaven in our homes, workplaces, and communities. Why operating in both power and authority is key to dethroning the enemy and enthroning Christ. How to recognize where satan has been given illegitimate authority—and how to take that territory back for God. This message will challenge you to step into your calling, see your life as Kingdom territory, and live as part of God’s unstoppable mission. 👉 Watch the original message here: https://youtu.be/Uq3FTLj-Pmw?si=8SPGPXaFbgmndOzS   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen to the Podcast Audio: Podbean

📖 Episode Description:This bonus episode of Creating the Future steps aside from our normal rhythm to reflect on the personal character of Charlie Kirk in the wake of his tragic death. In a world full of soundbites and secondhand opinions, it’s vital to return to original sources if we want to understand truth. That’s why in this episode, we lean on the words of my friend and mentor Dr. Frank Turek, who knew Charlie personally and spoke about his life, faith, and integrity. Much of this episode is an edited version of Frank’s powerful podcast where he shares who Charlie was behind the scenes—not just the public figure, but the man he knew. We encourage you to watch the full conversation at your convenience here:👉 Frank Turek on Charlie Kirk (YouTube) Together, let’s remember Charlie not only for his public voice, but also for the character that shaped his private life.   👤 About Dr. Frank TurekDr. Frank Turek is a Christian apologist, speaker, and author of books such as I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist and Correct, Not Politically Correct. Through his ministry, CrossExamined, he has trained thousands to defend the faith with clarity and courage. Frank was also a personal mentor to Charlie Kirk.You can learn more about Dr. Frank Turek here: https://crossexamined.org/   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen to the Podcast Audio: Podbean

📖 Episode Description:In this special 1700-year anniversary conversation on the Nicene Creed, I sit down with author and scholar Dr. Bryan Litfin to discuss his groundbreaking new book The Story of the Trinity: Controversy, Crisis, and the Creation of the Nicene Creed. Together we explore: Why the early church used baptism creeds to shape faith and discipleship. The question: Was Jesus really God, or just a demi-god? How the Nicene Creed gave clarity to the divinity of Christ. What role race and ethnicity played in the early church—were some church fathers Black? The shock persecuted Christians must have felt when Christianity went from outlawed to endorsed at the Council of Nicaea. This episode will help you see the Nicene Creed not as a dusty artifact, but as a living confession of faith that still grounds the Church today.   👤 Guest Bio – Dr. Bryan LitfinDr. Bryan Litfin is a professor, historian, and author dedicated to helping Christians understand the story of the early church. He holds a Ph.D. in Ancient Church History and has written multiple books, including both fiction and scholarly works. His latest release, The Story of the Trinity, unpacks the intense debates, courageous leadership, and powerful faith that gave birth to the Nicene Creed.Learn more about Bryan and his work at BryanLitfin.com. 📚 Get The Story of the Trinity here: Amazon Link   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen to the Podcast Audio: Podbean

📖 Episode Description:In this special episode, I respond to the tragic murder of Charlie Kirk. While I didn’t follow him closely, I saw in him a man unafraid to speak truth in a culture that often rejects it—a man who claimed Christ and lived with what seemed to be a prophetic call to confront wrongs in society. Together we reflect on: Why truth-tellers often become targets of hate and violence. Jesus’ warnings that the world will hate and persecute His followers (John 15:18, Matthew 5:10–12). How history echoes in moments like this—John the Baptist beheaded for speaking truth, Stephen stoned for proclaiming the gospel. Why persecution, as tragic as it is, often emboldens the Church to stand even stronger for truth. How we can grieve with compassion while choosing courage, mercy, and hope. This is a pastoral reflection meant to comfort, challenge, and remind us: light still shines in the darkness, and truth still matters.   👤 About Charlie KirkCharlie Kirk was the founder of Turning Point USA and a national voice in the political and cultural conversation. At just 31, he leaves behind a wife and two young children. While his death is tragic, his life reminds us of the cost—and the necessity—of standing for truth.   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen to the Podcast Audio: Podbean

Welcome to Creating the Future with Dr. Brent Simpson — where we dive into stories, truths, and deep questions that help shape our faith, our families, and our future. In this episode, Dr. Brent unpacks one of the most common questions Christians ask: “Which Bible should I read?” With so many translations and formats available, it can feel overwhelming. Should you go digital or physical? NIV or ESV? Is the King James still relevant? And what about paraphrase Bibles like The Message? Dr. Brent will walk you through: 📱 Digital vs. physical Bibles (YouVersion app, Life Application Study Bible) 🔤 The three main translation styles: word-for-word, thought-for-thought, and paraphrase ❌ Why paraphrase or overly liberal translations should not be your primary study Bible ✅ Why NIV and ESV are excellent recommendations ❤️ Why love matters more than fighting over which version is “the best” 🙏 How the Holy Spirit makes scripture come alive in your life By the end, you’ll know exactly how to pick a Bible that fits you—and more importantly, how to let God’s Word shape your everyday walk with Him. ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen to the audio podcast: Podbean or anywhere podcasts are found

👋 In This Episode Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with Pastor Pete Kramer to unpack the rich history and ongoing importance of education in Christianity. From medieval monasteries to Ivy League campuses, Christians have historically led in creating institutions that shaped civilization. So what happened? And why must we reclaim this calling today?   Together they explore: 🕰️ The Origins – How monasteries and the Reformation built the foundation of modern literacy 🏫 Harvard & Beyond – Why 83% of early American colleges were Christian 📚 Cultural Impact – How Christian education shaped society, virtue, and scientific leadership 🔥 Modern Relevance – Why believers need biblical worldview training more than ever 🎓 Arise School of Ministry – How you can grow deeper and lead stronger   📌 Reflection Questions Did you know most early American colleges were Christian-founded? What role should Christians play in shaping the future of education? How has Christian education shaped your worldview?   🎓 Learn More: Arise School of Ministry Want to go deeper in theology, leadership, and practical ministry training? 📍 MyAriseChurch.com 📍 AriseSOM.com ✅ In-person courses ✅ Spiritual formation + leadership development ✅ Real-world ministry labs Connect with Dr. Brent & Pastor Pete 📲 @thePeteKramer 🌐 BrentSimpson.com 📱 @DrBrentSimpson on all social platforms 🎙️ Podcast on Podbean: https://creatingthefuture.podbean.com/ 📍 Learn more about Arise Church at MyAriseChurch.com 👍 Like, Comment, & Share If this episode sparked something in you, hit the like button, share with a friend, and leave a review. Help us restore the church’s voice in shaping culture!

📺 Are We Saved by Faith or Works? Here's the Truth Most Christians Miss 🎙️ Creating the Future with Dr. Brent Simpson👉 Subscribe for weekly content that helps shape your faith, your family, and your future.   🔥 In This Episode: One of the most misunderstood questions in Christianity:Are we saved by faith… or by works? In this episode, Dr. Brent Simpson brings clarity to the debate by breaking down what salvation really means—not just as a moment, but as a process of transformation. You’ll discover how Paul and James are not in conflict, but in agreement—and how your faith isn’t just meant to get you to heaven, but to bring heaven to earth. If you've ever wrestled with legalism, grace, or what it means to truly follow Jesus, this is the teaching you need.   📖 Key Scriptures: Ephesians 2:8–10 — Saved by grace through faith… for good works James 2:17 — Faith without works is dead Romans 3:28 — Justified by faith apart from the works of the law Matthew 6:10 — “On earth as it is in heaven” Romans 6:22 & 8:19 — Holiness, transformation, and Kingdom responsibility   🧠 Topics Covered: The 3 stages of salvation: Justification, Sanctification, Glorification Why justification is by faith alone—but sanctification requires your obedience How Paul and James actually complement each other The danger of reducing salvation to a one-time prayer Why our calling isn’t to “go to heaven” but to bring heaven to earth   ✨ Big Ideas: We are saved from sin by faith…But we are saved into wholeness through works empowered by the Spirit. Heaven is your destination, but participation in the Kingdom is your calling. Jesus didn’t die just to get you into heaven.He died to get heaven into you—now.   💬 Join the Conversation: 🗣️ What do you think—is the modern church overemphasizing justification and underemphasizing transformation?👇 Comment below!   🎧 Listen on All Platforms: 🎙️ Podbean: https://creatingthefuture.podbean.com/📱 Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts — search “Creating the Future with Dr. Brent Simpson” 📺 Watch the messages Dr. Brent mentions from Arise Church here: https://www.youtube.com/@myarisechurch   🌐 Connect with Dr. Brent: 🔗 BrentSimpson.com🏠 MyAriseChurch.com📲 Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson

📺 Were the Disciples Just Teenagers? What We’ve Missed About Who Jesus Chose 🎙️ Creating the Future with Dr. Brent Simpson👉 Subscribe for weekly truth that shapes our faith, families, and future.   🔥 In This Episode: What if Jesus didn’t choose religious experts to be His first followers… but teenagers? In this episode, Dr. Brent unpacks the compelling biblical and historical evidence that most of the disciples were likely in their teens when Jesus called them. From temple tax laws and Jewish education to their behavior, fear, and boldness, everything points to one surprising truth: 👉 Jesus started a world-changing movement with a youth group. Discover: Why this changes how we view discipleship How this redefines leadership potential in the next generation The powerful implications for youth pastors, parents, and churches today   📖 Key Scriptures: Matthew 17:24–27 (Temple tax clue) Mark 14:51–52 (John running away) Luke 9:54 (James and John want fire from heaven) 1 Timothy 4:12 (Paul’s mentorship of Timothy) John 19:26–27 (Jesus entrusting Mary and John)   🧠 Topics Covered: Jewish rabbinic training age expectations Why Peter paid the tax but the others didn’t Signs of teenage behavior in the Gospels Why Jesus’ model of discipleship still works today The call to disciple young people like Jesus did   📣 Let’s Talk: 💬 Who’s your favorite disciple—and why? Peter’s boldness? John’s love? Thomas’ questions?✍️ Drop it in the comments! And share this episode with a youth leader, a parent, or anyone who’s been told they're too young or unqualified to be used by God.   🎧 Listen on All Platforms: 🎙️ Podbean: https://creatingthefuture.podbean.com/📱 Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts — just search  “Creating the Future with Dr. Brent Simpson” 📺 Watch the messages Dr. Brent mentions from Arise Church here: https://www.youtube.com/@myarisechurch   💬 Connect with Dr. Brent: 🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com📱 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson

🧠 In This Episode:🎧 Creating the Future with Dr. Brent SimpsonEpisode: Discover Your Working Genius (with Tina Blount)🔧 Based on The Six Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni ⚙️ In This Episode:What if the frustration you feel at work isn’t a lack of talent… but a mismatch of genius? In this powerful conclusion to our 4-part series, Dr. Brent Simpson talks with Tina Blount, a certified Working Genius facilitator, about the revolutionary framework created by Patrick Lencioni: The Six Types of Working Genius. Whether you feel drained at work or are simply searching for more joy and clarity, this conversation will help you understand why you’re energized by some tasks—and exhausted by others. 🔍 We explore questions like:• What is Working Genius—and why is it such a game-changer?• What are the six types, and how do they play out in real life?• How can knowing your Genius help you love your work again?• What’s the difference between Genius, Competency, and Frustration?• How can churches, teams, and businesses use this tool to thrive?• Can Working Genius help people who already love their job—or is it just for those feeling stuck?• What’s the first step to discovering your own Genius? Tina shares practical stories, spiritual insights, and transformative results she’s seen using this tool with churches, businesses, and individuals. If you’re ready to lead, hire, and live with more intentionality and joy—this episode is a must-watch.   👩 Guest: Tina Blount🌐 TinaBlount.com🧠 Certified Working Genius Facilitator💼 Career Coach | Clarity Mentor | Team Builder   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎧 Listen to the Audio Podcast: Creating the Future on Podbean

🌳 In This Episode:What if your next job—or your next calling—isn’t a straight line, but a living tree full of divine branches and possibilities? In this inspiring third installment of our 4-part series, Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with coach, author, and career strategist Tina Blount to talk about how to discover your next step when you feel stuck, unsure, or simply ready for something new. Drawing from her powerful book Your Life is a Tree of Possibilities, Tina blends wisdom, faith, and practical tools to help you find clarity and courage for the road ahead. 🌱 We explore questions like:• What’s the story behind the “Tree of Possibilities” metaphor?• How do I start moving forward when I feel stuck or unsure about my future?• What role do personality, passion, and productivity play in finding direction?• Is this a dream I’m chasing—or a divine assignment I’m stepping into?• What if I feel like I’ve missed my window?• How can faith sharpen the way I search for my next opportunity?• Can you give us a practical exercise to help us identify next steps? Whether you’re at a career crossroads, stepping into a new season, or simply curious about what’s possible, this episode will awaken fresh hope, perspective, and direction.   👩 Guest: Tina Blount🌐 TinaBlount.com 📖Get Tina’s newest book here: https://tinyurl.com/4jzdambz📘 Author of Your Life is a Tree of Possibilities💼 Career Coach | Resume Expert | Calling Clarity Mentor   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎧 Listen to the Audio Podcast: Creating the Future on Podbean

🧠 In This Episode:Nervous about interviews? You're not alone. In this practical and empowering episode, Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with career coach and recruiting expert Tina Blount to uncover what really makes someone stand out in a job interview—without sounding rehearsed, robotic, or arrogant. With over 20 years of experience in hiring and coaching, Tina shares wisdom that will change the way you think about interviews, confidence, and how to own the room—even if you're nervous. 🗝️ We explore questions like:• What are the most common interview mistakes—and how can you avoid them?• What does it mean that “confidence is clarity, not arrogance”?• How do you answer tricky questions like “Tell me about yourself” or “What’s your greatest weakness?”• What can you do when you’re asked something you didn’t prepare for?• How do you show your value without sounding like you’re bragging?• What questions should YOU ask the interviewer to stand out?• What’s one thing you can do the night before to set yourself up for success? Whether you're prepping for your first job interview or chasing a major promotion, this episode is filled with real talk and tangible tools to help you walk in prepared, confident, and authentically you. 👩 Guest: Tina Blount🔗 TinaBlount.com💼 Creator of Next Level Resumes and author of Your Life is a Tree of Possibilities. Get Tina’s newest book here: https://tinyurl.com/4jzdambz  ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎧 Audio Version: Creating the Future on Podbean

🧠 In This Episode: If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to write a resume that opens doors, this episode is for you! Dr. Brent Simpson sits down with resume strategist and career coach Tina Blount—a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience in hiring, interviewing, and coaching job seekers—to talk all things resumes, mindset, and finding your next opportunity. Whether you’re just starting out or trying to level up, Tina shares the keys to creating a resume that doesn't just get scanned—but gets noticed. 💼✨   🔑 We explore questions like:• “Your resume is the key” — what does that actually mean?• Why most resumes only get 20 seconds of attention—and what yours MUST include• How writing your resume can help you discover your identity and calling• The difference between your “Who” and your “Do”• Why storytelling matters more than task lists• How fresh eyes can lead to fresh confidence• What’s changed (and what hasn’t) in 20 years of resume writing• How to walk into an interview with confidence—even if you're nervous   👩 Guest: Tina BlountVisit her at TinaBlount.comDownload her eBook Next Level Resumes for more expert advice!   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 BrentSimpson.com🏡 MyAriseChurch.com🎧 Listen to the Audio Podcast: Creating the Future on Podbean

🎆 Was America actually founded as a Christian nation? Or is that just patriotic myth? This 4th of July, Dr. Brent Simpson takes you beyond the fireworks and into the foundation of our country’s soul. You’ll uncover the spiritual roots of America that schools rarely teach—from revival fires to prayer meetings in Congress to why our Constitution only works with the Christian moral guardrails.   👀 In this episode, you’ll hear:✅ The truth behind “The Separation of Church and State” 📜✅ What George Washington’s first act as President was. ✝️ ✅ How prayer helped for our constitution and how Benjamin Franklin called for it. 🙏✅ Quotes from presidents, founders, and court rulings 🏛️✅ Why America loses its strength when it abandons prayer 💔 👉 If you love both Jesus and your country, this episode is for you.   ✨ Connect with Dr. Brent:💬 All Socials: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 Website: BrentSimpson.com🏡 Church: MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Podcast Audio: https://creatingthefuture.podbean.com/   📲 Like, subscribe, and share this episode to help spark a fresh awakening across our land!

Is this the war of Gog and Magog?Is Jesus coming back next week?Is it wrong to even ask? In this episode of Creating the Future with Dr. Brent Simpson, we dive into: How Christians should respond to the Israel-Iran war Why spiritual revival is rising even while rockets fall The 5 biggest mistakes Christians make when interpreting end-times prophecy How to pray, think, and live with wisdom—not fear—in times of global crisis We’re not chasing headlines.We’re chasing truth.Let’s trade speculation for Spirit-led strategy.   🧭 What You'll Learn: A biblical overview of Ezekiel 36–39 (and why it may or may not apply right now) The danger of “newspaper theology” Why prophecy should lead us to worship, not worry How to align your heart with God's mission in the Middle East What Jesus actually told us to focus on when the world feels unstable   📖 Scripture References: Matthew 24:6 James 1:19 Galatians 5:1 Romans 11:26 Isaiah 1:17 1 Corinthians 12:26 Ezekiel 36–39 Revelation 7:9   ✖️ Mistake 1: Obsessing Over Timelines We want dates. Jesus gave us warnings.Matthew 24:36 — “No one knows the day or the hour.” 📌 Instead: Live ready every day. Watch with hope—not fear.   ✖️ Mistake 2: Confusing Israel, the Church, and the Nations Some believers apply every prophecy to the modern Church. Others assume every ancient text points to modern Israel. Romans 9–11 shows us: God is not done with Israel. The Church is His body. And the nations still matter. 📌 Instead: Study Scripture with humility. Context matters.   ✖️ Mistake 3: Reading the Headlines Into the Bible Every crisis isn’t an end-times confirmation. That’s called newspaper exegesis. 📌 Instead: Read the news with a Bible in hand—but let the Word be the lens, not the mirror.   ✖️ Mistake 4: Ignoring the Genre Revelation is apocalyptic literature—symbols, metaphors, visions. Not a science report. 📌 Instead: Let it awaken awe. Let it drive you to worship and holiness, not just debate.   ✖️ Mistake 5: Losing Sight of Jesus The book is called The Revelation of Jesus Christ—not of world governments or conspiracy theories. 📌 Instead: Let every prophecy point you back to the Lamb who was slain and the King who is coming.   🙏 How to Pray: For innocent lives in Israel and Iran For revival in the underground church For wisdom among world leaders For Jewish people to encounter Yeshua For the Church to respond—not react—with the heart of Christ The video mentioned from Dr. Michael Brown can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6Xbn7rzjSo&t=1191s 🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent: 💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 Website: BrentSimpson.com🏡 Church: MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen to the full podcast archive: https://creatingthefuture.podbean.com/

What if you were already free… but no one ever told you? That’s the powerful story behind Juneteenth—when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas didn’t hear about their freedom until two and a half years after it was declared. And today, that story still speaks. In this episode of Creating the Future with Dr. Brent Simpson, we explore: The historical roots of Juneteenth and what actually happened in 1865 The spiritual parallel: how many believers have been set free in Christ but still live in chains Why freedom must be proclaimed, not just promised What it means to live in the continual freedom Jesus gave—and how to help others step into theirs This isn’t just Black history.This is Gospel history.This is your story, too.   🧠 What You'll Take Away: A fresh appreciation of Juneteenth as more than a date—it’s a declaration How the Gospel breaks spiritual slavery Two critical questions: Are you living in the freedom Christ already declared? Are you proclaiming that freedom to others?   ⏱️ No timestamps—just stay for the whole thing. This one matters.   🔗 Connect with Dr. Brent: 💬 All Social Media: @DrBrentSimpson🌐 Website: BrentSimpson.com🏡 Church: MyAriseChurch.com🎙️ Listen to the full podcast on all platforms: https://creatingthefuture.podbean.com/