Go Be the Church

If you asked ten Christians to define the word ‘disciple,’ you’d probably get eleven answers—and most of them would sound like ‘a follower of Jesus,’ without really explaining what that means in real life. So today we’re going to clear the fog. In the first century, a disciple wasn’t a casual listener or a weekend attendee—discipleship meant apprenticeship: proximity to Jesus, obedience to Jesus, and transformation into the likeness of Jesus. We’re also going to draw some necessary boundaries—what discipleship is not, how you can be busy around church and still avoid surrender, and why the difference between Judas and Peter isn’t that one failed and the other didn’t…it’s what they did with their failure. This is an honest conversation about the cost, the call, and the daily reality of reorganizing your life around Christ.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Be honest—when you hit a genealogy in the Bible, do you read it… or do your eyes suddenly develop spiritual speed-walking? Today we’re talking about why Scripture spends so much ink on names, and why that’s not a pointless detail—it’s a pattern. In the Bible, names aren’t just labels; they’re identity, calling, and often a clue to what God is doing in the story. We’ll look at the genealogies of Jesus in Matthew and Luke, why certain names show up on purpose, and even why John bothers to name Malchus in the garden. Because the Bible doesn’t just tell stories—it remembers people. And if God is that intentional with names on the page, it might tell us something about how personal He is with the people in His story… including us.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Last time, we talked about why the Old Testament matters, but today we’re getting into the how. If we’re honest, most of us have felt the 'Bible Guilt'—that feeling that Scripture is just a textbook we’re supposed to study or a checklist to complete. But what if the Bible isn't just a book of information, but a place of encounter? Today, we’re talking about the power of hearing God’s voice through His Word. We’re diving into the ancient practice of reading Scripture aloud, why your 'quiet time' might actually need to get a little louder, and how to move past the 'I have to' mindset into a genuine 'I want to' relationship with the Living God. It’s time to stop just reading the page and start listening for the Voice behind it. Let’s get into it.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Today, we are building a bridge. We’ve spent this series looking at the Old Testament, but today we’re seeing how the New Testament writers—specifically the author of Hebrews—viewed those ancient texts. If you’ve ever felt like the Bible is two different stories with two different versions of God, this episode is for you. We’re exploring how the New Testament doesn't replace the Old; it reveals it. From the sacrificial system to the priesthood, we’re looking at how every shadow in the Old Testament finds its substance in Jesus. We’re talking about the 'Better' covenant, the 'Greater' High Priest, and why you can’t fully understand the Gospel of the New Testament without the foundation of the Old. It’s an ultimate 'Aha!' moment of Scripture. Let’s dive in.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

We’re kicking things off with a brand-new look, but we’re diving straight into one of the oldest, messiest, and most misunderstood parts of our faith: The Old Testament. For a lot of us, the 'First Volume' of the Bible feels like a confusing collection of hard-to-pronounce names, weird laws about bacon and fabric, and a version of God that feels… well, different. But if we skip the Old Testament, we’re skipping the very foundation of why Jesus had to come in the first place. Today, we’re stripping away the 'VeggieTales' versions of these stories to look at the raw, unfiltered heart of God. We’re talking hermeneutics, the true purpose of all those laws, and why the Old Testament isn't just a history book—it’s a mirror. Grab your coffee and your Bible; it’s time to see how the ancient Word meets our modern world. Let’s dive in.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

In this unfiltered Season 1 finale of the Go Be the Church Podcast, Eric and Stephen tackle the questions you actually wanted answered. From Jesus’ model of ministry to Revelation’s real meaning, from dating advice to Dodgers fandom, nothing is off-limits. Expect hot takes, honest answers, and a few laughs along the way as we wrestle with what it really means to follow Jesus in everyday life.Whether you’re sorting through faith, leadership, or relationships, this episode offers real talk, biblical wisdom, and a reminder that church isn’t a place—it’s a people.Keywords: Christian podcast, discipleship, Q&A, church leadership, faith questions, following Jesus, Revelation, Christian dating, spiritual growth, Go Be the ChurchFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Hosts: Eric Friedmann and Stephen Albi, with special guest: Blake Porter God doesn’t call us to be perfect messengers—just willing ones. In this episode, we’ll help you find the courage and clarity to share your faith with the people who need it most.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Hosts: Eric Friedmann, Jared Prince, and first-time guest: Michelle Jacob!We no longer bow to statues, but we still bow to the things we chase for security or identity. What’s the hardest idol for you to let go of? Feel free to reach out to us on Instagram (@gobethechurchpodcast) or email ([email protected]).Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Hosts from left to right: Stephen Albi, Jared Prince, Samuel Green, and Eric Friedmann.If there’s one book that has shaped history, families, and faith more than any other, it’s the Bible. But let’s be honest—most of us struggle to read it consistently, let alone let it sink into our everyday lives. In this episode, we’re discussing why we truly need the Bible, not just as a Sunday accessory, but as God’s living Word for our Monday mornings, our challenging seasons, and our everyday decisions. We’ll share how to move beyond obligation and into delight, and provide you with some practical ways to engage with Scripture so it becomes less of a checklist and more of a lifeline. Grab your favorite Bible app, audio version, or physical Bible, and let’s lean in together.”Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Featuring: Eric and Diana Friedmann, and Katlyn and Ben Morin.Voiceover: Lauren HopperMarriage is often called the ultimate team sport—but even the best teams face challenges. In this episode, we have an honest and helpful conversation about navigating the ups, downs, and arounds of marriage. Specifically, we aim to debunk common misconceptions about marriage and explore practical tools, discussing order and headship in the home as God’s design—and what that should truly look like from a Christ-centered perspective. Whether you’re hoping for marriage, newly married, or have been together for decades, this conversation will provide you with tools and inspiration to strengthen your bond and deepen your connection to one another.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Stephen Albi, Elaine Stone, and guests Grant and Jackie Risley.Raising kids today can feel like walking a tightrope—balancing school, screen time, and social pressures—all while trying to raise them in the fear and love of God. In this episode, we’re sitting down with two teachers and parents who are navigating the highs, lows, and unexpected lessons of integrating faith into everyday life. From the dinner table to the classroom to the Sunday School room, we’ll explore practical ways to disciple your kids, have honest conversations about God, and let faith shape every part of family life. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or mentor, this conversation will give you fresh insight—and maybe even a few holy disruptions—on what it means to raise kids who love Jesus.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Today, we’re talking about a calling that changes everything — when God invites you to leave the marketplace and step into ministry.We’re sitting down with two guests and newer staff members at First Christian Church, Katlyn Morin and Jordan Dunahee, who’ve walked that road — trading business plans for kingdom work — and they’re sharing the honest truth about what that transition was really like: the joys, the fears, the surprises, and how God showed up along the way.If you’ve ever wondered what it means to follow God’s call — in any season — this conversation’s for you. Let’s lean in together.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Today, we're diving into a topic that’s as simple as talking — and as deep as the heart of God: prayer.Samuel Green, Stephen Albi, and a special guest, Mackenzie Green (Samuel's wife) share about their honest journeys with prayer — the highs, the struggles, the breakthroughs — because let's be honest, prayer isn’t always easy.And we won’t stop at stories. We’ll share practical tools, habits, and biblical wisdom to help you not just pray more, but pray with purpose and confidence.Whether prayer feels like second nature or a total mystery, this conversation’s for you. Let’s grow together.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Today's episode is a special one. We're celebrating the release of the official studio recording of All That You Have Grown: a powerful and deeply personal worship song written by First Christian Church's Creative Arts Pastor, Jared Prince. With your host, Eric Friedman, dive into the story behind the song and get a peek into the creative process that brought it to life. It's a journey of reflection, surrender, and the quiet, faithful work of God growing beauty out of brokenness.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most vital aspects of the Christian life — abiding in Jesus. What does it truly mean to remain connected to the True Vine? How do we stay spiritually rooted in a world full of distractions, stress, and spiritual dryness? Today, we’re not only going to unpack what Jesus meant in John 15 when He said, 'Abide in me, and I in you', but we’ll also share practical tools and rhythms that can help you cultivate a life of daily connection with Christ. Whether you’re feeling spiritually vibrant or you're in a season of disconnect, this conversation is for you. So grab your Bible, maybe a journal, and let’s explore together how we can walk more closely with the One who gives us life, fruitfulness, and joy.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Juneteenth — a day of freedom, resilience, and remembrance. But what does it mean for the Church? What does it look like to truly pursue racial reconciliation in a way that reflects the heart of Jesus?Today, we’re not pulling punches. We’re exploring the legacy of slavery, the Church’s silence — and sometimes complicity — and how we, as followers of Christ, can be part of God's redemptive work in our generation.This isn’t just a history lesson. It’s a call to action, to empathy, to justice, and above all — to love. So grab your Bible, open your heart, and let’s have the conversation the Church needs to have.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Today we’re talking about the Holy Spirit—how different Christians understand Him, and more importantly, how we can actually live with the Spirit day to day. Whether you’ve grown up in a charismatic church or barely heard much about the Holy Spirit at all, this episode is for you. We’re not here to debate—we’re here to explore the beauty and mystery of the Spirit, and to invite Him into our everyday lives. So whether you’re driving, folding laundry, or on a walk, let’s lean in together and make space for the Spirit to speak.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

Go Be the Church. It's not just the name of our podcast, it's the benediction we give every week at First Christian Church in Champaign, Illinois. Have you ever stopped to ask yourself, "What does that even mean? What does it actually look like to be the Church once we walk out those doors?" Join us as we talk about that in Episode One and give you some practical tools to be the church where you live, work, and play.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.

In this introductory episode, you'll meet some of our hosts and get to learn the why behind this podcast.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobethechurchpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GoBeTheChurchPodcastWeb: https://www.fcc-online.org/gbtcpodCopyright 2025 First Christian Church, Champaign, IL.