Church Works

Most people don’t know what elders actually do in a church. Are they leaders? Decision-makers? Just a board? Or something completely different? In this episode of Church Works, Doug sits down with John Mollohan (Vertical Church, Gallipolis, Ohio) to unpack one of the most misunderstood topics in the church today: The difference between elder-led and elder-ruledWhy congregational voting can become more political than spiritualWhat elders are actually responsible for (and why it matters)How humility—not control—is the foundation of real leadershipWhy church leadership should look more like a family than a boardroomThis conversation is honest, practical, and at times challenging—but ultimately points back to one truth: Church works when we follow God’s design.If you’ve ever wondered how churches should be led—or struggled with leadership in the church—this episode is for you.

Serving isn’t just about filling a role—it’s a core part of following Jesus.In this episode of Church Works, we talk about why serving is essential to spiritual growth, how it shapes your heart, and why every believer is called to step in—not sit on the sidelines.If you’ve ever wondered where you fit, how to discover your calling, or why serving matters, this conversation will challenge and encourage you.Listen now and take your next step.

How does real discipleship actually happen?It’s not just about hearing God’s word. It’s about living it out—with others.In this episode, we talk about:Why small groups aren’t optionalThe danger of knowledge without applicationHow real growth happens through communityAnd how the church truly cares for peopleIf you’ve ever wondered how to grow deeper in your walk with Jesus, this episode is for you.

In Episode 4 of Church Works, we talk about biblical communication — and why loving leadership requires courage, clarity, and grace.Hard conversations are rarely comfortable, but Scripture calls believers to speak truth in love for the sake of spiritual growth. In this episode, we unpack how communication shapes church culture, discipleship, leadership, and everyday relationships.Whether you’re a pastor, leader, small group member, or part of a church family, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to pursue Christlike communication.

In this episode, we explore the biblical tension of high invitation and high challenge—a culture where everyone is genuinely welcomed, yet lovingly called to spiritual growth and transformation.What does it mean to love people enough to speak truth? Are discipleship expectations actually “high,” or simply the spiritual minimum Jesus calls every believer to?Discover why the church works when grace and truth walk together, just as Jesus modeled.

In this episode of Church Works, we talk about the foundation of every healthy church: the Word of God. We discuss why Scripture must shape everything we do—from preaching and leadership to the rhythms of everyday church life. When the church follows God’s ways instead of human strategies, it experiences real health and lasting impact. This conversation also explores how God uses wilderness seasons to grow our faith and why trusting His Word brings clarity, strength, and hope.

God didn't design the church by accident.It was his plan from the beginning, and when it's lived out the way he intended, it works.This is a podcast exploring how God grows his people through the local church and unpacking what the Bible really teaches about the church and why it matters today.

Does church really work? In Episode One of Church Works, we dive into why the local church—when shaped by God’s Word—becomes one of the greatest gifts in a believer’s life. With honesty and warmth, the conversation explores church hurt, submission, spiritual growth, small groups, and the beauty of life-on-life encouragement. You’ll hear a reminder that we need one another to hold fast to our hope in Christ. If you’ve felt disconnected, skeptical, or spiritually dry, this episode is an invitation back into the joy of Christ and his bride.