Be The Church with Joel Wayne

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Luke and Pastor Joel sit down with Eric Palmer for a powerful conversation on identity, resilience, and what it means to lead from a place of being fully known and loved by God.Eric shares his deeply personal story of loss, redemption, and the defining truth that now anchors his life: “hope in spite of.” From losing both parents at a young age to wrestling with identity, purpose, and calling, his journey reveals how the goodness of God is not found in the absence of hardship—but in His faithful presence through it.They also explore the heart of the next generation—why young adults are desperate for authenticity, hungry for truth, and longing for spiritual leaders who are both honest and anchored in Scripture. This episode is both a story of God’s redeeming work and a call to lead others from a place of a deep, abiding relationship with Him.What you’ll learn:Why your identity must be rooted in being loved by God—not your past, performance, or painHow to reframe your story through the lens of “hope in spite of” and see God’s goodness in every seasonThe danger of building your identity around ministry instead of intimacy with ChristWhy abiding in Jesus (John 15) is essential for lasting fruit and spiritual leadershipWhat today’s young adults are looking for: authenticity, truth, and spiritual familyHow to lead others through hardship with both compassion and a clear vision of future hopePractical ways to cultivate resilience and a deeper relationship with God in your everyday lifeGet each episode to your inbox -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Pastor Joel Wayne and Pastor Michael Rubino for a deeply practical and Scripture-rooted conversation on what it really means to follow Jesus in everyday life.Together, they wrestle with a powerful tension: following Jesus is simple—but it’s not easy. From family rhythms and leadership convictions to kingdom-minded living and surrender, this conversation exposes how easily we drift into compartmentalized, performance-driven faith—and calls us back to a life of wholehearted devotion.They unpack why spiritual leadership isn’t about adding more to your plate, but about becoming the same person in every environment, why relationships—not efficiency—are the true engine of discipleship, and how entitlement quietly erodes our joy while expectancy restores awe and wonder in our walk with God.From “kingdom vs. castle” thinking to the daily decision to serve rather than be served, this episode will challenge you to stop managing your faith and start surrendering your heart—at home, at work, and in every relationship.Whether you’re leading a church, raising a family, working a job, or simply trying to follow Jesus faithfully, this conversation will help you rediscover the beauty of a life fully yielded to Him.What you’ll learn:Why following Jesus is simple in truth—but difficult in surrenderHow compartmentalized faith leads to burnout and inconsistencyThe difference between entitlement and expectancy—and why it mattersWhy relationships (not programs) are central to discipleship and leadershipHow “kingdom vs. castle” thinking reshapes the way you lead and liveThe power of small, everyday acts of service in forming a Christlike lifeWhy spiritual leadership flows from who you are—not just what you doHow surrendering your heart (not just modifying behavior) changes everythingGet each episode to your inbox -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Luke Bilberry is joined by Joel Wayne and Pastor Steve Harrington for a profound look at what God is doing on the international stage. Moving beyond mere logistics and "success metrics," the team explores how Be The Church is engaging the global mission field by prioritizing the one thing Jesus modeled most: intentional relationship.Together, they discuss Steve's story as a missionary in the UK, the "reverse culture shock" of returning to the United States, and how the global church’s theology of suffering challenges our Western pursuit of comfort. From the mission fields of Europe and Africa to West Michigan, this conversation reveals that the most powerful tool for advancing the kingdom isn't a strategy—it’s a life willing to be known by others and shaped by God.Whether you feel called to the other side of the world or just the other side of the street, this episode will challenge you to stop seeing people as projects and start seeing relationship as the primary vehicle for God’s transformative work.What you’ll learn:The International Lens: How living in a different cultural context changes your internal "grid" and deepens your dependence on God.The Global Contrast: Why the American church struggles with individualism while the global church finds strength in shared suffering.Relational Mobilization: Why Be The Church focuses on "abiding" and relationship as their foundation.The Myth of Usefulness: Understanding that God doesn't send us overseas because He needs our help, but because He wants us to know His heart.Shortcuts vs. Sanctification: Why the "Prosperity Gospel" fails on the mission field and why we must embrace the "long game" of spiritual preparation.Picking Up the Accent: How proximity to God and His people changes the way we speak, lead, and love.Get each episode to your inbox -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this second part of their conversation, Joel continues his deep dive with Pastor Jim Jeffrey to explore the intersection of leadership, discipleship, and the power of walking in humility. From serving as a lead pastor for decades to becoming a university president, Jim shares practical leadership lessons he has learned over 50 years in ministry.This episode pulls back the curtain on what it looks like to truly die to self for the sake of the kingdom. Together, they examine the mechanics of healthy leadership through the lens of Nehemiah, the mathematical power of biblical collaboration, and the common pitfalls that cause gifted leaders to crash and burn.Whether you are leading a large organization or discipling a handful of people in your living room, this conversation challenges every leader to remember that the greatest movement of God happens when no one cares who gets the credit.What you’ll learn:- Why Jim chose impact over title and how to navigate "stepping down."- How to identify your leadership horsepower and match your capacity to your role.- The timeless roadmap for moving a vision from chaos to implementation.- Understanding the Deuteronomy 32:30 principle of how two leaders together produce exponential results.- Why the church is "spinning its wheels" by choosing curriculum over a life-on-life process.- Why convictions, character, and core commitments are the "taproot" of longevity.- Why high-capacity leaders are at the greatest risk of the "Pride Trap."- How to pour into "lay people" and treat them with the same intentionality as a professional staff.Get each episode to your inbox -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

What if we’ve been rushing past the most important part of the story?In this special Holy Week episode, Pastor Luke sits down with Pastor Joel to reflect on the final days of Jesus’ life—and why we can’t skip the journey to the cross to fully understand the power of the resurrection.From the Garden of Gethsemane to the empty tomb, this conversation is a call to slow down, remember, and step into a deeper relationship with Jesus. Why did the disciples fall asleep when Jesus asked them to pray? And where might we be doing the same in our own lives?This episode challenges us to move beyond surface-level belief and into true abiding—walking closely with Jesus in both suffering and victory. Because spiritual leadership doesn’t start with what we do for God, but how we dwell with Him.In this episode, you’ll discover: Why Holy Week matters more than we often realize  The danger of spiritual disengagement—and how to stay awake  What it means to truly abide with Jesus  How humility leads to deeper worship  Why the resurrection changes how we live right nowGet each episode to your inbox -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode, Joel Wayne sits down with Pastor Jim Jeffery to walk through the story behind his life and leadership—how a young boy from a broken home came to know Christ and began a journey that would shape decades of ministry.In this deeply personal and honest conversation, Pastor Jim shares how his calling to ministry began at just 12 years old, only to be tested and refined in the years that followed. From a life-changing moment at summer camp to navigating family brokenness, early ministry, and unexpected leadership opportunities, his story reveals that spiritual leadership is not built on talent or ambition but on surrender, hardship, and faithfulness over time.As Jim reflects on seasons of rapid ministry growth followed by one of the hardest leadership transitions of his life, he unpacks the humbling reality that God often does His deepest work in the desert. Together, Joel and Jim explore the difference between pastoring and leading, the dangers of chasing “more,” and why many leaders don’t truly understand leadership until they’re stretched beyond their capacity.Whether you’re stepping into leadership for the first time or navigating a difficult season, this episode will challenge you to rethink what it means to be called, formed, and sustained by God.What you’ll learn: How Pastor Jim Jeffery came to faith and sensed his call to ministry at a young age  Why spiritual leadership is formed through hardship, not just success  The key lesson many leaders learn too late about transitioning between ministries  The difference between pastoring and leading—and why both matter  Why chasing “more” can lead you away from what God is actually doing  How God uses difficult seasons to humble, shape, and prepare leaders  The importance of learning leadership from both Scripture and godly mentors  Why caring for your soul is essential if you want to lead for the long haul Get each episode to your inbox -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode, Joel Wayne sits down with Paul Davis, President of ABWE, to explore the future of global missions—and why the local church is still God’s primary strategy for reaching the world.In this deeply practical and forward-looking conversation, Paul shares how his leadership journey was shaped not by ambition but by faithfully stewarding what God placed in front of him. Together, they unpack the critical role of the local church in sending missionaries, the power of kingdom-minded partnerships, and why relational investment—not platform—drives lasting gospel impact.But this conversation doesn’t stop at what missions is today. It looks ahead.As the global landscape rapidly shifts, Joel and Paul address the growing realities of persecution, the rise of the global middle class, and the urgent need for resilient, deeply formed disciples who can endure what’s coming. This is a call for pastors and leaders to lift their eyes beyond their immediate context and re-engage the Great Commission with clarity, conviction, and courage.What you’ll learn:Why the local church—not individuals—is God’s primary sending strategy for missionsHow “outsized impact” is built through relationships, not platformsThe real reason many missionaries struggle—and what churches must do differentlyWhy global missions today is “uneven” and how partnership and creativity help close the gapThe surprising rise of the global middle class—and what it means for reaching the nationsWhy persecution will define the future of missions—and how leaders must prepare nowHow to lead with a long-term mindset when gospel work requires endurance, not speedA biblical challenge to lift your eyes beyond your context and engage the nationsAbout Paul DavisPaul and his wife, Martha, have served in pastoral ministry since 1989. In their lifetime of ministry, they have led church plants, Christian schools and dynamic ministry teams. Additionally, they have given oversight to children’s, youth and college/career ministries. They enjoy pace-setting leadership as well as serving as educators, conference speakers and ministry trip facilitators.In 2017, Paul became the seventh president of ABWE. Today, Paul and Martha are working hard to meet, support, and encourage the ABWE global team, striving to embolden gospel-centered churches to become sending and supporting churches, connecting God-enabled donors to the visionary projects of our fields, and humbly working to build, heal and reignite relationships with ABWE partners past, present and future. The Davises have four adult children who are believers in Jesus Christ.About ABWEABWE (Association of Baptists for World Evangelism) is a global family of ministries that exists to fulfill the Great Commission by multiplying leaders, churches, and missions movements among every people.Get each episode to your inbox -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

Is your worldview shaped by Scripture or by your own preferences? In this episode, Joel Wayne and Luke Bilberry explore why a biblical worldview isn't just one option among many—it’s a challenge to everything else.In this deeply personal conversation, Joel and Luke move beyond definitions to discuss the conundrum of the modern believer: the tendency to marry the Word of God with our own broken preferences. Drawing from the wisdom of Leslie Newbigin and AW Tozer, Joel and Luke unpack how our first thoughts about God dictate every decision we make—from how we parent to how we lead through uncertainty.This episode is a call to stop being held captive by hollow philosophies and to start thinking God’s thoughts about every issue of life.What you’ll learn:- Why Christianity doesn’t "fit" into other worldviews; it is exclusive.- How to move from a man-centered framework to a God-centered one.- Why your preferences and God’s Word are often at war, and why "blending" them is a trap.- Why only 9% of born-again believers actually hold a biblical worldview.- Finding peace when you can’t see the destination, but you know the King.- How to identify the "hollow and deceptive" practices that are currently holding you captive.Get each episode to your inbox -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Joel Wayne sits down with Dr. James Hilton, Lead Pastor of The Journey Church, for a conversation on the difference between running a church and leading a movement. After 22 years of ministry, James reveals why the traditional "church growth" model often leads to burnout and how a shift in strategy can lead to radical multiplication.Together, they unpack the "Developer vs. Doer" trap that many leaders fall into—rewarding those who simply execute tasks while ignoring those who could multiply leadership. From the miracle of a woman walking into a baptismal tank to the humble reality of church revitalization, this conversation explores how fear of losing control quietly kills kingdom growth. You'll learn why your greatest strengths might actually be the biggest barrier to God’s power and how to create an environment where the Holy Spirit, not your own ego, is the primary driver of movement.Whether you are leading a staff of 50 or volunteering in your local community, this episode will challenge you to stop filling holes and start developing developers.What you’ll learn:The Movement Mindset: Why church growth is a miracle you can measure, but a movement is something only God can control.Doers vs. Developers: How to identify if your leadership systems are rewarding dependency or fostering multiplication.The Power of Revitalization: Why "weddings" between dying churches and passionate leaders may be the key to reclaiming Kingdom resources.Leading the High-Capacity Leader: How to make room at the table for entrepreneurs and "financial wizards" without feeling threatened.The Paradox of Strength: Why relying on your natural talents often keeps you from experiencing the "fresh manna" of God’s current work.Prophetic Leadership: The importance of calling out anointing in others and creating the right environment for spiritual formation.About James HiltonDr. James Hilton serves as the Lead Teacher and Pastor at The Journey Church. He and his wife, Shana, have been happily married since 1997 and are blessed with four children: their son, Josiah; twin daughters, Halyn and Gracyn; and their youngest, Ansley.Get each episode to your inbox -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Joel Wayne sits down with Pastor Luke Bilberry for a Scripture-centered conversation about identity, purpose, and what it truly means to live as a child of God.Rooted in 2 Timothy 2 and 1 Corinthians 9, they unpack Paul’s exhortation to Timothy and explore three powerful images of spiritual leadership: the soldier, the athlete, and the farmer. Together, they examine how identity in Christ fuels perseverance, how self-control and discipline prepare leaders for suffering, and why abiding in God—not accomplishing tasks—must be the foundation of everything we do.This conversation challenges leaders to stop chasing performance-driven ministry and instead rediscover their purpose in being loved by the Father. From cultural pressures to personal ambition, Joel and Luke call listeners back to a simple but transformative truth: you are a child of God, strengthened by His grace, and called to endure hardship with confidence and joy.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why your identity as a child of God must shape your purpose and leadershipHow task-driven ministry can quietly replace abiding relationship with ChristWhat Paul’s charge to Timothy teaches about spiritual grit and perseveranceWhy sharing in Christ’s sufferings is part of faithful leadershipHow the images of soldier, athlete, and farmer define biblical leadershipWhy discipline and self-control prepare you for cultural pressureHow changing the “rules” leads to spiritual drift and loss of authorityWhy doing hard things strengthens spiritual resilienceHow worship flows from knowing you are loved and approved by the FatherWhat it looks like to run the race with the aim of pleasing the One who enlisted youThis episode is a bold reminder that spiritual leadership is not about winning approval from people—it’s about faithful obedience to the King of Kings. When your identity is secure in Christ, you can embrace the hard, endure suffering, and lead with courage in a culture that constantly shifts the rules.Join Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Joel Wayne sits down with John Chesnut, President and CEO of Wycliffe Bible Translators USA, for a conversation about the authority of Scripture, spiritual leadership, and the accelerating work of Bible translation around the world.Together, they explore John’s leadership journey—from church planting and global adoption to leading a worldwide Bible translation movement—and unpack a foundational conviction: everything in ministry is downstream from the Word of God. Without Scripture in the heart language of a people, discipleship remains shallow, and the church struggles to take deep root.Drawing from passages like John 5, John 14, and John 17, they discuss what it means to lead with humility, pursue unity as Christ prayed for His church, and trust in the sovereignty of God in a rapidly changing world. They also examine how artificial intelligence is reshaping Bible translation—shortening timelines, strengthening accuracy, and helping bring Scripture to oral and non-literate communities for the first time in history.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why everything in ministry and leadership is downstream from ScriptureHow heart-language Bible translation fuels lasting spiritual transformationWhat it means to lead through influence, unity, and partnership—not just positionHow spiritual rhythms protect leaders from drifting into performance-driven ministryWhy team culture and executive humility shape the health of an entire organizationHow AI is accelerating Bible translation while preserving theological integrityWhy oral Bible translation is essential for non-literate communitiesWhat it looks like to trust God’s sovereignty when leadership feels uncertainHow the peace of Christ steadies leaders in a world filled with disruptionWhether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or everyday believer seeking to lead faithfully in an uncertain age, this episode will expand your vision for the global Church and ground you in the transforming power of the Word of God.About Dr. John ChesnutJohn Chesnut serves as President and CEO for Wycliffe Bible Translators. He and his wife, Kelly, have been members of Wycliffe since 2001. John earned his bachelor's degree in behavioral science with minors in biblical studies and philosophy from California Baptist College, along with a master of divinity and doctor of ministry from Denver Seminary. The Chesnuts live in Orlando, FL. They have seven children through birth and adoption, along with an ever-expanding crew of grandchildren. You can learn more about Wycliffe at www.wycliffe.org.Join Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Luke Bilberry is joined by Joel Wayne for a deeply biblical, unfiltered conversation about spiritual leadership, Scripture, and the kind of humility that actually forms the soul of a leader.Rather than offering leadership hacks or formulas, this episode slows down and asks a more foundational question: What happens when leaders stop trusting their own wisdom and allow the Word of God to truly shape their identity, motivation, and obedience?Together, Luke and Joel walk through key passages of Scripture that have shaped decades of ministry—from the humility of Christ in Philippians 2 to the warning against selfish ambition, from the cost of obedience in James 1 to the beauty of redemption in John 4. Along the way, they challenge pastors and spiritual leaders to examine their motives, resist cultural pressure to measure success by outcomes, and return to Scripture as the living, active authority for leadership and life.This conversation is a call back to first things: deep discipleship, humility, leadership, and a life fully surrendered to Jesus. If you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or everyday believer longing to lead faithfully in a distracted, performance-driven culture, this episode will ground you in what truly matters.What You’ll LearnWhy Scripture—not personality, platform, or preference—must be the foundation of spiritual leadershipHow pride, self-reliance, and comparison quietly undermine a leader’s soulWhy humility and servanthood are not optional but essential for Christlike leadershipHow Scripture memory and biblical narratives shape long-term faithfulnessWhy transformation happens through obedience, not informationHow shared leadership and biblical counsel protect leaders from burnout and isolationWhat it looks like to redefine success around faithfulness instead of visible resultsJoin Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Luke Bilberry sits down with Pastor Dan Vandewarker and his wife, Shannon, for a deeply honest and hope-filled conversation about biblical parenting. Together, they unpack what it means to see parenting not as behavior modification, but as a calling—a spiritual mantle to disciple children to love and follow Jesus.Drawing from Scripture, personal stories, and lived experience, Dan and Shannon explore how parenting flows from theology, marriage, and mission, why the nuclear family was never meant to operate in isolation, and how God uses both hardship and community to form faithful disciples in the home.This conversation encourages parents to move from control to preparation, from fear to faith, and from isolation to intentional dependence on the Body of Christ—trusting God with both the process and the outcomes.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why biblical parenting is rooted in discipleship, not behavior modificationHow parenting flows downstream from your theology, marriage, and missionWhy the goal isn’t protecting kids from everything—but preparing them for what’s aheadHow to disciple each child according to their unique personality and callingWhy the Body of Christ plays a vital role in raising spiritually healthy kidsHow to approach schooling, technology, and culture through a discipleship lensWhat it looks like to parent from humility, repentance, and dependence on GodWhether you’re parenting young children, teenagers, or preparing for parenthood, this episode will challenge you to rethink success, trust God more deeply, and embrace the calling to disciple the next generation—together with the Church.Join Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Luke Bilberry sits down with Joel Wayne and John VanDyke for a deeply honest conversation about biblical friendship—and why it may be one of the most underutilized weapons God has given the church.Together, they unpack how real, Christ-centered friendships are forged through vulnerability, trust, sacrifice, and shared mission—not convenience or proximity. From the complexity of leading together in ministry to the courage it takes to be fully known, this conversation explores how guardedness, busyness, and fear quietly erode relationships—and how God uses authentic friendship to sharpen leaders, protect souls, and advance His kingdom.Whether you’re a pastor, elder, ministry leader, or simply longing for deeper relationships, this conversation will call you to invest intentionally, love courageously, and pick up the “weapon” of biblical friendship.What you’ll learn:Why biblical friendship is essential—not optional—for spiritual leadershipHow vulnerability and trust are forged over time through shared sacrificeWhy guardedness and busyness are enemies of real communityHow friendship can thrive even in complex, layered leadership relationshipsWhy priorities are revealed by what you’re willing to displaceHow God uses deep friendship to sharpen leaders and advance the KingdomJoin Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

“If God has called us to something, the answer is always yes.”In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Luke Bilberry sits down with Pastor Andrew Honeycutt (Byron Center Campus Pastor at Chapel Pointe) for a practical and deeply encouraging conversation on leadership development, discipleship, and spiritual formation.Andrew shares the defining moments that shaped his calling. He speaks candidly about hardship and resilience—what it means to “take kidney shots” as a leader—and how vision anchored in God’s call empowers you to keep going when the odds feel stacked against you. He offers a framework for staying grounded: Scripture, prayer, identity in Christ, and mentors who speak biblical wisdom into your life.Whether you’re leading in your home, your workplace, your friendships, or your church, this episode will help you embrace the power of presence, the importance of words, and the calling to invest in others so they can experience life to the full in Jesus.What you’ll learn:Why leadership development is discipleship (and what that looks like in real life)How God often forms leaders through small, incremental next stepsWhat “taking kidney shots” means—and how leaders stay resilientWhy vision and calling matter more than the odds stacked against youHow mentors and community help secure your identity in ChristWhy words can unlock calling: the power of “I see in you…”Why presence matters when someone is in a dark seasonFoundational rhythms for disciples: Word, prayer, listening, journalingThree self-evaluative questions for men who want to leadTitus Ten Book: https://shorturl.at/06OTbMere Christianity Book: https://shorturl.at/neGbzJoin Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Luke Bilberry sits down with Jon VerLee—Founder of Startup Garage, Entrepreneur in Residence at Calvin University, husband, father, and tech leader—for a practical, biblical conversation on technology, AI, and spiritual leadership.Jon shares his story—from a defining car accident at 16, to student ministry and seminary, to building church software that served thousands of churches worldwide. Along the way, he unpacks a crucial warning for leaders in today’s tech moment: the more fascinated we become with the tools, the more we risk missing the point.Using the life of Moses as a framework, Jon challenges leaders to resist the urge to rush ahead in their own strength. That same principle applies to innovation, calling, and the way we steward emerging technologies like AI.Whether you’re leading in ministry, business, or your everyday relationships, this episode will help you stay anchored in the mission—people, discipleship, and the Kingdom—while thinking thoughtfully about how to use technology without losing your humanity.What you’ll learn:Why technology is neutral—and why Christians can’t afford to stay silent in tech spacesHow to avoid becoming fascinated by AI and “missing the point” of the missionA leadership lesson from Moses: right burden, wrong timing (and what patience looks like)Why social media often promises “connection” but produces isolation, envy, and lonelinessHow to use AI wisely as a tool for learning—without replacing real community and relationshipsPractical ways to lead with spiritual influence: initiative, presence, and relational investmentHow to steward passions that feel “separate” (ministry + tech) into Kingdom impactConnect with JonJon VerLee is the Founder of Startup Garage and the Entrepreneur in Residence at Calvin University, where he combines his entrepreneurial experience and passion for faith-driven innovation to empower students and founders to turn business ideas into ventures that create meaningful, redemptive impact. He is the former Founder and CEO of Breeze Church Management Software. Connect with Jon at startupgarage.org.Join Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this special episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Joel Wayne hosts a powerful conversation with global ministry leaders—from Romania (Pastor Nelutu), Uganda (Pastor Ben David), and New York (Pastor Michael Rubino)—to answer one question: What does it actually mean to be a disciple of Jesus?Together, they unpack the difference between being informed about Jesus and being transformed by Jesus and why Jesus consistently called people to become disciples—apprentices who surrender everything to the King. You’ll also hear stories of discipleship in real life: a pastor who thought he needed another Bible study… and got handed a rake; a Romanian leader navigating a culture full of nominal Christianity; and a call to reach people through everyday presence.Whether you’re a pastor, leader, or a believer who wants your life to be “marked by Jesus,” this episode will challenge you to stop outsourcing the mission, break agreement with busyness, and step into the everyday disciple-making Jesus commanded.What you’ll learn:Why Jesus said “make disciples,” not “become Christians,” and what that means for the church todayThe warning signs of “informed but not transformed” faith (and how sanctification actually shows up)Why you can’t claim discipleship without disciple-making (and how busyness becomes an idol)How disciple-making looks different in Romania, Uganda, and New York—but always happens through everyday lifeA practical first step: how to reach your neighbor with a simple offer of prayer and open the door to gospel conversationsWhy the “cultural church” model breaks down—and how biblical church multiplies through ordinary believersJoin Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Pastor Joel Wayne for a practical, Scripture-rooted conversation on the VSI framework: Vision, Strategy, Implementation—and how leaders can step into a new year with clarity, courage, and spiritual grit.Together, they unpack why “vision” is often misunderstood, how unchecked motives can turn leadership into anxiety and people-pleasing, and why strategy is the missing middle that separates faithful impact from endless busyness. From Proverbs’ warning about aimless living to Moses’ repeated obedience before Pharaoh, this episode challenges leaders to stop chasing efficiency, start pursuing effectiveness, and build the kind of clarity that helps people “run through a wall” for the mission of God.Whether you’re leading a church, ministry team, business, or your own household, this conversation will help you define a God-honoring vision, choose a focused strategy, and empower others to implement what God has called you to—without defaulting to control, comfort, or comparison.What you’ll learn:Why biblical vision isn’t about creativity, it’s about God’s glory, God’s will, and God-centered motivesHow to test your “vision” by running it through prayer, Scripture, and wise counselWhy strategy is the hardest (and most essential) part and how it forces leaders to say no to distractionsHow clarity in implementation equips the saints and activates people who are ready to serveWhat Moses teaches us about leadership: repetition, obedience, perseverance, and staying the courseWhy choosing effectiveness over efficiency leads to healthier leadership and less anxietyJoin Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

Merry Christmas! What’s preventing you from experiencing God's peace, joy, hope, and love this Christmas season? In this episode, Be The Church Founder Joel Wayne shares a special message and encouragement for spiritual leaders. Join Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Joel Wayne for a reflective, pastoral conversation about calling, contentment, and learning to live faithfully in the tension of spiritual leadership. Drawing from decades of ministry experience, Joel shares how some of the most defining moments in his leadership journey came not from saying “yes” to new opportunities—but from discerning what he needed to say “no” to in order to remain faithful to God’s call.Throughout the conversation, they explore the danger of distraction, the subtle ways leaders confuse peace with passivity, and why faithfulness in the everyday often becomes the pathway to God’s greater purposes. Joel unpacks the difference between contentment in Christ and spiritual angst over a broken world, reminding leaders that peace is not found when circumstances are controlled, but when our identity is anchored in Jesus.From building the fire today to embracing the daily work of obedience, this episode invites leaders to stop chasing outcomes and instead trust God with the results—believing that when we live in the tension, Jesus proves Himself to be enough.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why discerning what to say “no” to is just as important as saying “yes” to God’s callHow distraction quietly pulls leaders away from their true callingThe difference between contentment, passivity, and holy ambitionWhy peace comes from Christ—not control, outcomes, or circumstancesHow faithfulness in everyday obedience shapes long-term spiritual impactA practical practice for rooting your identity in what Christ has redeemed you fromWhy learning to live in the tension is essential for healthy, joyful leadershipJoin Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Pastor Joel Wayne for a candid conversation about calling, conviction, and the moments God has used to shape Joel as a leader. From early encounters with God’s voice to seasons of hardship, risk, insecurity, and unexpected doors, Joel shares how God has refined him through both failure and faithfulness.Together, they explore how grit and drive can drift into self-reliance, why leaders must keep returning to humility and repentance, and how empowering others reignites courage and longevity in ministry. Joel also unpacks the story behind his calling, his ministry transitions, and the early spark that led to Be The Church.What you’ll learn:- How God uses both hardship and opportunity to form spiritual leaders- Why self-reliance is one of the greatest dangers for driven leaders- How to discern the difference between your desires and God’s will- The role of humility, repentance, and dependence in long-term leadership- Why empowering others is essential—not optional—for healthy leadership- How thinking about eternity reshapes the risks you take today- The story behind Joel’s calling and the origin of Be The ChurchJoin Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Pastor Michael Rubino and Mike Joslyn for a powerful conversation about the heart of spiritual leadership: selflessness, obedience, and dying to self so others can live.Together, they unpack what it really means to lead like Jesus in a world obsessed with achievement, platform, and outcomes. From redefining success as simple obedience to recognizing that spiritual influence is birthed out of discipleship—not charisma or personality—this conversation brings leadership back to its biblical foundation.What you’ll learn:- Why spiritual leadership starts with recognizing you have nothing apart from Christ- The difference between outcome-based leadership and obedience-based leadership- How spiritual leaders discern God’s voice in everyday moments- Why true leadership requires selflessness, sacrifice, and dying to personal preference- How Jesus flips the world’s leadership model upside down—and why it leads to freedom- The role of humility, hidden service, and unseen obedience in shaping a leader’s heart- How to recognize and respond to “aha moments” where God redirects your path- What it looks like to leverage your leadership in your home, workplace, and relationships- The importance of sensitivity to the Holy Spirit in daily decisionsJoin Our Email List | https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1lB8pnN6bhexbvj5KRGTRqApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-the-church-with-joel-wayne/id1845408311YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMIConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode, Pastor Joel Wayne and Pastor Luke Bilberry sit down with Pastor Mike Joslyn for a candid, practical conversation on the mistakes young leaders make—and the deeper identity issues that often sit beneath them.Together, they unpack why so many new (and seasoned) leaders feel pressure to prove themselves, why listening is more Christlike than leading with statements, and how the search for validation can quietly pull your heart away from God and toward the approval of people. From avoiding conflict to measuring the wrong things to carrying burdens we were meant to share, this episode shines a light on the subtle traps that shape unhealthy leadership.Ultimately, the conversation keeps circling back to a single, critical theme: Spiritual leadership is not about outcomes, optics, or speed—it’s about obedience, impact, and becoming someone worth emulating.Whether you’re stepping into leadership for the first time, serving in your church, leading in the workplace, or simply wanting to grow as a follower of Jesus, this episode will challenge you to slow down, ask better questions, listen well, and aim your life at the right target.What you’ll learn:Why young leaders often rush to speak—and how to build the discipline of listening firstHow seeking validation leads to insecurity, comparison, and unhealthy leadership patternsThe difference between impact and influence (and why only one creates lasting change)How to step into conflict with truth and grace instead of fear or avoidanceWhy measuring the wrong things leads to burnout—and how to evaluate success through ScripturePractical ways to equip others instead of carrying the weight of ministry aloneWhy spiritual leaders must know what they stand for, not just what they stand againstHow to find mentors worth emulating and ask for the wisdom you actually needWhy evaluating your “target” matters—and how drifting from it can derail your life and callingJoin Our Email List | https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1lB8pnN6bhexbvj5KRGTRqApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-the-church-with-joel-wayne/id1845408311YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMIConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Pastors Larry Mayberry and Michael Rubino for a raw, honest conversation about identity, comparison, and what it really means to lead like Jesus in a culture obsessed with results.Together, they unpack the subtle ways pastors and spiritual leaders can start tying their worth to church size, platform, or performance—and how that robs us of joy, distorts our calling, and quietly erodes our souls. From confession and repentance to the simple practice of being present in your neighborhood, this conversation keeps coming back to one core question: Is your success defined by outcomes or by obedience?Whether you’re a pastor, planter, elder, small group leader, or just stepping into spiritual leadership for the first time, this episode will challenge you to lay down comparison, step into vulnerability, and root your identity fully in Christ.What you’ll learn:- Why comparison quietly destroys spiritual leaders—and how to recognize it in your own heart- How to root your identity in Christ instead of church size, platform, or performance- Why confession, repentance, and vulnerability are non-negotiables for healthy leadership- Practical ways to get out of your study and into the streets with non-believers- How to redefine “success” in ministry around obedience to Jesus, not visible resultsJoin Our Email List | https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1lB8pnN6bhexbvj5KRGTRqApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-the-church-with-joel-wayne/id1845408311YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMIConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Joel Wayne sits down with Dr. Thomas White, President of Cedarville University, for a powerful conversation on leadership, calling, and the future of ministry in a changing world.Dr. White unpacks why 85% of seminary graduates leave ministry within five years, the growing impact of AI on critical thinking and leadership, and how the next generation can stay grounded in biblical truth while leading with courage. Together, Joel and Dr. White explore what it means to lead with humility, resilience, and faithfulness in a culture that often rewards comparison and compromise.Whether you’re a pastor, student, or leader navigating today’s challenges, this episode will inspire you to stand firm on the Word of God, lead with conviction, and serve with courage.What you’ll learn:Why so many ministry leaders are burning out—and how to stay the courseHow to lead with humility and resilience in a critical cultureWhat AI means for the future of education, ministry, and leadershipWhy your identity in Christ must anchor your callingHow to raise up the next generation of spiritual leadersConnect with Dr. Whitehttps://www.facebook.com/DrThomasWhitehttps://www.instagram.com/drthomaswhite/https://x.com/DrThomasWhitehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jthomaswhite/Learn More about Cedarville University: https://yellowjackets.cedarville.edu/Join Our Email List | https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1lB8pnN6bhexbvj5KRGTRqApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-the-church-with-joel-wayne/id1845408311YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMIConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of the Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Pastor Joel Wayne for a conversation on what it actually looks like to live as a disciplined spiritual leader. Together, they unpack the difference between “I have to” and “I get to” when it comes to time in God’s Word, prayer, relationships, and even caring for your body. They talk about developing a biblical worldview that informs every part of life, why relationships aren’t optional for believers, and how a leader’s willingness to absorb hardship for the sake of the bride of Christ reveals their understanding of Jesus.What you’ll learn:- Why spiritual disciplines are about posture, not legalism (“I get to” vs. “I have to”)- How a biblical worldview touches five key areas of life: faith, relationships, finances, habits, and work/school- Why relationships are a biblical responsibility, not a personal preference- How to build rhythms that keep you rooted in Scripture and prayerJoin Our Email List | https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1lB8pnN6bhexbvj5KRGTRqApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-the-church-with-joel-wayne/id1845408311YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMIConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Nathan Potter to unpack what it means to follow God with open hands. Nathan shares his family’s journey of obedience to the Philippines — selling their home and uprooting their lives as God calls them to global ministry.Luke and Nathan explore how true surrender reshapes our definition of calling and home. Their conversation reveals that obedience isn’t about comfort, but about trusting God when the next step isn’t clear and discovering His faithfulness in the unknown.Whether you’re wrestling with a big decision, leading your family through transition, or longing to live with greater purpose, this episode will challenge and encourage you to trust God completely.What you’ll learn:- What it really means to live with open hands before God- How obedience often leads through discomfort before growth- Why missions is more than a trip — it’s a way of life- How to find contentment when God calls you into the in-betweenConnect With NathanEmail: [email protected]: https://btcphilippines.org/Join Our Email List | https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Leave a Review and SubscribeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1lB8pnN6bhexbvj5KRGTRqApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/be-the-church-with-joel-wayne/id1845408311YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMIConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

In this episode of Be The Church Podcast, Pastor Luke Bilberry sits down with Pastor Joel Wayne and Pastor Michael Rubino to unpack what it truly means to be a spiritual leader. Together, they challenge the modern view of leadership, contrasting cultural models with the biblical call to servant leadership.Through honest reflection, practical examples, and even moments of vulnerability, they explore how Jesus’ model of discipleship transforms our understanding of influence, calling, and equipping others. Whether you lead in your church, home, or workplace, this conversation will inspire you to lead with humility, clarity, and a heart surrendered to Christ’s mission.What you’ll learn:The difference between spiritual leadership and worldly leadershipWhy servant leadership is rooted in ScriptureHow failure shapes effective leadersHow Jesus modeled spiritual leadership with His disciplesJoin Our Email List -> https://bethechurch.org/podcast/Download the PDF -> https://bethechurch.org/what-is-spiritual-leadership-how-to-be-a-leader-worth-followingLeave a Review and SubscribeSpotifyApple PodcastsYouTubeConnect With UsWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeTheChurchMI

The Be The Church Podcast is for spiritual leaders who want to be challenged to lead like Jesus in everyday places—at home, in your church, at school, and in the workplace. Hosted by Be The Church founder Joel Wayne and Chapel Pointe pastor Luke Bilberry, each episode features bold, authentic conversations with business and ministry leaders that are rooted in Scripture. You'll learn how to expand your spiritual influence and leverage your leadership to advance the Kingdom of God. Let's be the church together! For more information, visit bethechurch.org/podcast.Join our email list and don't miss an episode! Sign up here: https://bethechurch.org/podcastWebsite: https://bethechurch.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethechurchmi/