Is Church Still Relevant? A Biblical Case for God's Family with Dr. Carmen Imes

In this episode of The Remnant Radio, hosts Joshua Lewis and Michael Rowntree welcome back Dr. Carmen Joy Imes, associate professor at Biola University’s Talbot School of Theology, to unpack her latest book, Becoming God’s Family: Why the Church Still Matters. Born from reflections during COVID-19, this discussion dives into the biblical roots of the church, starting with Abraham and tracing the concept of the “ekklesia”—the gathered assembly of God’s people—through both the Old and New Testaments.Whether you’re wrestling with past church hurts, seeking deeper biblical prophecy insights, or simply wanting to strengthen your understanding of Christian community, this episode reaffirms the church as a family waiting together for Christ’s return — messy, but ultimately transformative. 0:00 – Introduction5:27 – Ekklesia: Gathered Community7:50 – Church Vocation: Waiting Together for God12:26 – Biblical Narrative: Worship, Wait, Work, Word15:03 – Church Continuity from Abraham18:20 – Deuteronomy: Community Care and Tithe21:30 – Practical Applications to Modern Church27:48 – New Testament Use of Old Testament Laws32:14 – Prophets Rebuking Disorder and False Prophecy38:49 – Addressing Abuses: Accountability and Leaving47:15 – Navigating Political Divisions and Unity55:38 – God's Use of Broken People in Church59:03 – Closing: Power of Gathering as Family 📖BOOK https://a.co/d/hbtEtNa 📽️RR PLAYLIST WITH DR. IMES: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMsjeViSScFFkoOXqXt8NjjQ2U-EdYv6K  Subscribe to The Remnant Radio newsletter and receive our FREE introduction to spiritual gifts eBook. Plus, get access to: discounts, news about upcoming shows, courses and conferences - and more. Subscribe now at TheRemnantRadio.com. Support the showABOUT THE REMNANT RADIO: The Remnant Radio exists to equip believers who are hungry for the radical middle of both Word and Spirit. Subscribe for twice-weekly content on theology, church history and the gifts of the Spirit.📧 SUBSCRIBE TO NEWSLETTER 📚 COURSES & CONFERENCES 🛒 SHOP MERCH 💝 SUPPORT OUR MINISTRY: • Leave a Tip• Become a Patron• Make a Tax-Deductible Donation  🌐📧 Check Out Our Church PagesJosh's ChurchMiller's ChurchRowntree's Church