In this episode of the 'to the heart' podcast, Helen Thorne-Allenson, Steve Midgley, and Andrew Collins explore the importance of heart-centered conversations within the church. They discuss the nature of the heart in biblical counselling, the appropriateness of depth in conversations, and how to respond to individuals sharing their struggles. The conversation emphasises the need for understanding, humility, and the role of Scripture in facilitating change. Practical applications are provided, particularly in addressing issues like envy, and the team discuss encouraging a culture of openness and honesty in church communities.

Takeaways:

• The heart is central to our relationship with God.
• Churches should foster environments for heart-centered conversations.
• Navigating social norms is crucial in deep conversations.
• Acknowledging someone's struggle takes courage and humility.
• Understanding is a collaborative process, not a one-sided analysis.
• The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in revealing truths.
• Change is a complex process involving both understanding and action.
• Scripture should be woven into conversations naturally.
• Building a culture of openness can transform church dynamics.
• Everyone can grow in their ability to engage deeply with others.

Real Change
The Real Change course is discussed towards the end of the episode.

Chapters:

00:00 -Introduction to Heart-Centered Conversations

00:56 -Understanding the Heart in Biblical Counseling

02:57 -Navigating Depth in Church Conversations

06:59 -Responding to Heartfelt Struggles

11:33 -Exploring Deeper Issues of the Heart

14:17 -The Role of Understanding in Heart Conversations

17:15 -The Process of Change and Scripture's Role

22:31 -Practical Applications: Envy and Heart Issues

32:59 -Building a Culture of Openness in the Church

Hosted by Helen Thorne-Allenson and produced by Andrew McKenna.
Find all episodes on your favourite podcast provider or at bcuk.org/podcast
For regular news from BCUK join our mailing lists at bcuk.org/join
To support the work of BCUK visit bcuk.org/get-church-talking

In this episode of the 'to the heart' podcast, Helen Thorne-Allenson, Andrew Collins, and Amanda Cook explore the theme of listening to the heart within the context of biblical counselling and church community. They discuss the importance of being attentive to our hearts, the barriers to vulnerability, and how to create a safe culture in the church for open conversations. The conversation emphasises practical ways to encourage deeper discussions, the significance of prayer, and the transformative power of sharing our hearts with one another.

Takeaways:

• The heart is central to our relationship with God.
• One anothering in the church involves being attentive to each other's hearts.
• Vulnerability is essential for meaningful conversations.
• Creating a safe culture in the church encourages openness.
• Listening to our hearts requires humility and self-awareness.
• Barriers to vulnerability include fear of judgment and discomfort.
• Practical love flows from a heart that relates well to God.
• Transitioning from small talk to deeper conversations is important.
• Prayer should focus on the heart, not just circumstances.
• Transformation in the church comes from honest conversations about our hearts.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Listening to the Heart
02:21 One Anothering in the Church
05:04 Natural Conversations About the Heart
07:54 Barriers to Vulnerability
11:15 Creating a Safe Culture in the Church
15:22 Listening with Pure Motives
19:47 Transitioning from Small Talk to Heart Talk
25:25 Connecting Bible Study to Personal Hearts
30:37 Encouraging Deeper Prayer Requests

Hosted by Helen Thorne-Allenson and produced by Andrew McKenna.
Find all episodes on your favourite podcast provider or at bcuk.org/podcast
For regular news from BCUK join our mailing lists at bcuk.org/join
To support the work of BCUK visit bcuk.org/get-church-talking

In this episode of BCUK's 'to the heart' podcast, Helen Thorne-Allenson, Steve Midgley, and Andrew Collins delve into the concept of the heart within biblical counselling. They explore its significance, the shift from focusing on external behaviours to understanding internal motivations, and the importance of integrity in one's spiritual life. The conversation emphasises the role of emotions in revealing the heart's desires and fears, and offers practical steps for self-exploration and reflection. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the transformative power of attending to the heart in fostering spiritual growth and deeper relationships with God and others.

Chapters
00:00 Understanding the Heart in Biblical Counselling
07:28 The Shift from External to Internal Focus
14:08 The Importance of Integrity and Consistency
19:57 Exploring Emotions and Their Significance
25:51 Practical Steps to Explore Our Hearts
32:24 The Benefits of Attending to the Heart

Hosted by Helen Thorne-Allenson and produced by Andrew McKenna.
Find all episodes on your favourite podcast provider or at bcuk.org/podcast
For regular news from BCUK join our mailing lists at bcuk.org/join
To support the work of BCUK visit bcuk.org/get-church-talking

Coming soon - the first BCUK podcast series entitled "to the heart". 5 episodes exploring the nature of the heart and how we can engage the heart as we serve one another in the local church.

Hosted by Helen Thorne-Allenson and featuring 5 members of the BCUK team.

Find all episodes on your favourite podcast provider or at bcuk.org/podcast

For regular news and info from BCUK join our mailing lists at bcuk.org/join

To support the work of BCUK visit bcuk.org/get-church-talking