Morning Manna Podcast

S2, E21: In this episode, we discuss why multiplication is not just a church growth strategy - it’s a biblical pattern woven throughout Scripture. We unpack the vision behind the Multiply Movement, the Military Highway, and how ordinary believers can help multiply disciples, leaders, and churches for the kingdom of God.FEATURING: Pastor Chris Fletcher (Manna Church Fayetteville/Ft. Bragg), Pastor Riley Halliday (Manna Church VA), and Pastor Joshua Ray (Manna Church Capitol Area). Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S2, E20: In this episode, we discuss Philippians 1 and wrestle with one difficult question: What if the thing you’ve been calling a problem is actually part of God’s purpose? Paul writes about joy, confidence, and the advancement of the gospel while sitting in prison awaiting trial and possible execution. Together, we explore suffering, perspective, purpose, ego, comparison, and what it really means for something to be “working” in the Kingdom of God.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Dr. Carlo Serrano, and Anna Wiggins. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S2, E19: In this episode, we explore The Blessing of Leah and what it looks like to trust God when life doesn’t meet your expectations. From comparison and disappointment to redefining what “blessing” really means, this conversation gets honest about how to find joy and purpose—even in seasons that feel overlooked or unfair.

S2, E17: In this episode we tackle one of the most talked-about (and most misunderstood) topics in Christianity... the end times. As Paul addresses the concerns of the Thessalonian church, he shifts the focus away from speculation and toward something far more important - how we live right now. If you’ve ever been caught up trying to figure out when Jesus is coming back, this conversation will challenge you to ask a better question.ResourcesFour Views of the Millennium by College Courses at manna.eduFEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Dr. Carlo Serrano, and Pastor Jeff Christensen. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S2, E16: In this episode, we continue our series in the book of Thessalonians and discuss why Paul makes such a bold, countercultural call to purity, holiness, and integrity. In a culture that says “follow your desires,” Scripture calls us to something higher.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher and Dr. Carlo Serrano. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S2, E15: This week, we begin our series studying 1 Thessalonians. This week, we will do a deep dive into the cultural and historical background of this letter. We then discuss how the faith of the Thessalonians should be commended and is also encouraging in our modern context. Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S2, E14: Join us for this special episode of the Morning Manna Podcast as we answer YOUR questions from the Manna Mailbag! You asked it - so we are answering questions about life, leadership, relationships, theology, and more.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Dr. Carlo Serrano, and Pastor Jeff Christensen. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Referenced BooksBaptism Three Views- Bruce A. Ware and Sinclair FergusonLeading From the Second Chair- Mike Bonem and Roger PattersonHow to Lead When You're Not in Charge- Clay Scroggins

S2, E13: In this episode, we walk through the most pivotal week in human history—from expectation to confusion, from suffering to victory—and unpack why God’s plan didn’t look the way anyone expected.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Dr. Carlo Serrano, and Anna Wiggins. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S2, E12: In this episode, we finish the Principle of First series by tackling one of Jesus’ most uncomfortable statements: "You cannot serve two masters." Is money really the issue… or is it something deeper in the human heart? We explore why every person serves something, how modern idols hide in plain sight, and what it actually means to follow Jesus with your whole life.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher and Dr. Carlo Serrano. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S2, E11: In this episode, we explore Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6 about the “healthy eye” and how generosity reveals the true condition of our hearts. If generosity is the spiritual dashboard light of the Christian life, what does it mean when that light starts flashing? We discuss how undivided loyalty to God shapes the way we hold our time, talent, and treasure.

S2, E10: In this episode, we discuss how to align our hearts and our finances. We cover topics like debt, budgeting, and building a financial legacy. As Christians, we do not want to be slaves to money; we want to make money a slave to us. FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher and Pastor Jeff Christensen. Hosted by Bryson Hopkins.

S2, E9: In this episode we explore why Jesus talks about money in His most famous sermon and what it reveals about lordship, trust, and the order of our hearts. Is this really about finances—or about who comes first? We unpack the principle of first, the meaning of the tithe, and why you cannot serve both God and money.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher and Pastor James Lewis. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S2, E8: In this episode, we unpack the most important question Jesus ever asked: “Who do YOU say that I am?” From the pagan backdrop of Caesarea Philippi to Peter’s declaration that Jesus is the Christ, we explore what it means to call Jesus Savior and King—and how that answer shapes your worldview, marriage, parenting, money, time, and mission.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Dr. Carlo Serrano, and Jaemi Serrano. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S2, E7: In this episode, we wrestle with Jesus’ haunting question in Mark 14 — “Could you not watch one hour?” We explore the different types of prayer, why prayer is directly tied to resisting temptation, and what Peter’s very public failure teaches us about preparation, consequences, and grace. This conversation challenges the idea that good intentions are enough and calls us to become people — and a church — who actually watch, pray, and prepare for the tests ahead.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Rachel Fletcher, and Pastor Jeff Christensen. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S2, E6: In this episode, we wrestle with one of Jesus’ most uncomfortable questions: “What do you want me to do for you?” (Mark 10). As James and John chase greatness, Jesus flips the script - exposing our honesty with God, our understanding of discipleship, our frustration with God’s plan, and our vision of the Kingdom. This conversation challenges the motives beneath our prayers and asks whether we want Jesus… or just what Jesus can give us.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Pastor Jonathan Fletcher (Lead Pastor of Manna Church - Killeen, TX), and Anna Wiggins. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S2, E5: Join us for another episode of the Morning Manna Podcast as we kick off our series entitled “Questions” and discuss the topic of FREEDOM.

S2, E4: In this episode, we turn our attention outwards. We discuss how the Church should be without walls and the role that each of us plays as individuals to advance God's Kingdom. If we want to be obedient to Jesus, we have to evangelize, serve others, and give. Following Jesus is more than an inward spiritual journey; it's a lifestyle of sacrifice and service. FEATURING: Dr. Carlo Serrano and Anna Wiggins. Hosted by Pastor Bryson Hopkins. Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S2, E3: In this episode, we talk about why spiritual growth was never meant to be done alone. We revisit worship as more than music, unpack why fellowship is essential (not optional), explore how accountability leads to healing instead of shame, and confront the hard reality of forgiveness—especially when the hurt comes from inside the church. This conversation challenges individualistic faith and calls us back to a biblical vision of following Jesus together.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher and Pastor James Lewis. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S2, E2: In this episode, we unpack the Big Three spiritual habits - Bible, prayer, and worship - and why your habits, not your intentions, determine the direction, pace, and peace of your life. We talk about measuring gains instead of gaps, starting from the beginning, and why showing up today matters more than spiritual perfection.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher and Dr. Carlo Serrano. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S2, E1: In this episode, we launch Season 2 of the Morning Manna Podcast with "Firm Foundations" and ask the question: How do you actually start well? We walk through Jesus’ Great Commandment and Great Commission as the load-bearing framework of the Christian life — loving God, loving others, and living on mission. We unpack why habits don’t work without love, why faith is both personal and communal, and why starting right matters more than trying harder later. This episode sets the theological and practical foundation for the entire series.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher & Pastor Jeff Christensen. Hosted by Pastor Nick ErtelWelcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E43: BONUS EPISODE - In this special outdoor conversation, three Lead Pastors from across the Military Highway — Chris Fletcher (Fayetteville/Ft. Bragg), Jon Fletcher (Killeen, TX), and Riley Halliday (Newport News, VA) — join Pastor Nick Ertel around a fire pit to reflect on how we can connect with God through His Presence, Power, and Promises.Recorded in the beauty of God’s creation and airing the week after Christmas, this episode invites you to pause, breathe, and start 2026 with a renewed rhythm of walking with God.

S1, E42: In this Christmas episode, we explore why the birth of Jesus defies every expectation of royalty - and what that reveals about God’s Kingdom. From ancient coronations to shepherds, censuses, swaddling cloths, and a manger, we unpack how the arrival of Jesus wasn’t just humble… it was intentionally different. And that difference is the heart of the gospel.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Rae Fletcher, and Dr. Carlo Serrano. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

Bonus Episode: This week, we have a special Manna Mailbag AMA (ask me anything) episode. We collected comments submitted over the past couple of months and have decided to answer them all in one episode. We cover topics like personal accountability, evangelism to family members, and the modern uses of Mosaic Law.

BONUS EPISODE: In this episode, we sit down with Brad Lomenick—author of H3 Leadership, former president of the Catalyst Leadership Conference, and host of the H3 Leadership Podcast—to talk humble, hungry, hustle; identity vs. assignment; and the state of the Church in America.FEATURING: Special Guest Brad Lomenick, Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, and Rae Fletcher. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S1, E39: In this episode we explore how Thanksgiving — and every holiday — can drift into empty routines unless we rebuild them the way God designed. Drawing from Leviticus 23, we unpack how biblical feasts shaped identity, centered families on God, and testified to His redemption. This conversation dives into how we can reset our modern traditions and rebuild rhythms that put Jesus at the center of every season.FEATURING: Pastor Jonathan Fletcher & Dr. Carlo Serrano. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E38: In this episode, we spotlight two of our international ministry partners — Clayton Butler from Agape International Missions (AIM) and Pastor Rafal Piekarski from PROEM Ministries in Poland — organizations on the front lines of rescue, restoration, evangelism, and discipleship. Together we unpack their stories, their mission, and how Manna Church is partnering with them to push darkness back around the world.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Clayton Butler (AIM), and Pastor Rafal Piekarski (PROEM – Poland). Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E37: We're in the midst of our ROC25 series, and we’re talking about what it means to "GO" to the ends of the earth — and how Manna Church partners globally to reach the nations. FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Pastor Gary Bolton (Ireland For Jesus), and Pastor Jordan Gill. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E36: In this episode, we continue our ROC25: GO series by focusing on what it means to plant churches across the "Multiply Movement" — our strategy to plant an expression of Manna Church next to every U.S. military base in the world. This week we are joined by Pastor Josh Clarke, who is preparing to launch Manna Church Clarksville (Tennessee) in 2026! Hear his powerful story of calling, preparation, and faith — and learn how you can be part of the mission.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher and Pastor Josh Clarke. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S1, E35: In this special edition of the Morning Manna Podcast, we’re kicking off our "ROC25: GO” series by focusing on what it means to live the Great Commission right where you are. From feeding the hungry and serving our military community to sharing the Gospel across Fayetteville, this episode highlights how the church moves when we decide - it starts here.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Dr. Carlos Sanchez (Fayetteville Cares), and Tonya Baker Nelson (Hand of Hope). Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E34: In this double-episode finale of the Acts series, we follow Paul through shipwreck, snakebite, and house arrest—and watch the unstoppable Kingdom of God keep advancing. From chaos in the storm (Acts 27) to courage in captivity (Acts 28), this conversation unpacks how God’s purposes never fail, even when everything else falls apart.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Dr. Carlo Serrano, and Pastor Jeff Christensen. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E33: In this episode, we dive into Acts 26, where Paul gives his most powerful defense — not to secure his freedom, but to showcase his hope.This is the kind of hope that doesn’t crack under pressure, doesn’t fade in disappointment, and doesn’t quit when life gets hard. It’s the Unshakable Hope that looks back on God’s faithfulness and forward to His promises.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Anna Wiggins, and Pastor Jordan Gill. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E32: In this episode we look at Acts 25, where Paul stands trial before Festus and appeals to Caesar. The courtroom drama highlights corruption, politics, and Paul’s unshakable commitment to the Gospel. FEATURING: Dr. Carlo Serrano, Pastor Jeff Christensen, and Anna Wiggins. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E31: In this episode we are in Acts 24 where Paul shows us that true worship is a life rooted in Scripture, anchored in hope in Jesus, and lived with integrity. Discover how worship can shape your world — one faithful step at a time.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Pastor Jeff Christensen, and Pastor Todd Capen. Hosted By Pastor Andrew SuttonWelcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E30: In this episode we explore Acts 23, where Paul stands before the Sanhedrin, sparks a riot, survives a conspiracy of forty men, and receives courage directly from Jesus. What does it mean to live with a clean conscience, detect God’s presence, and practice quick obedience?FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher and Dr. Carlo Serrano. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E29: In this episode, we dive into Acts 22, where Paul delivers his “defense” before the crowd—but instead of saving himself, he points everyone to Jesus. What does it mean to fix our focus on Christ when the world feels divided, distracted, and dangerous?FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Pastor James Lewis, and Pastor Todd Capen. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E28: In this episode, we wrestle with one big question: Are trials part of God’s plan? Paul’s determination to go to Jerusalem despite prophecy, the disciples’ fear, the church leaders’ strategy of appeasement, and the violent mob that beats him all raise hard questions about suffering, obedience, and God’s perspective.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Rae Fletcher, and Tamara Hewett. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E27: In this episode, we explore Acts 20, where Paul finishes his third missionary journey, preaches until midnight, raises Eutychus from the dead, and gives a powerful farewell speech to the Ephesian elders. We’ll talk about holiness, hearing God clearly, and living with boldness and confidence in Christ.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher and Pastor Todd Capen. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E26: In this episode we dive into Acts 19, where Paul’s ministry in Ephesus collides with magic, spiritual warfare, and the authority of Jesus’ name. From the baptism of John’s disciples to extraordinary miracles, and the seven sons of Sceva, this chapter shows us that in the spiritual realm it’s all about who you know.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Laura Fletcher, and Anna Wiggins. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E25: In this episode, we dive into Acts 18—where Paul faces fierce opposition in Corinth, finds strength in God’s voice and His people, and learns to release ministry into the hands of others. But the chapter also raises an unforgettable question: What happened to Sosthenes?FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Pastor James Lewis, and Pastor Jeff Christensen. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S1, E24: In this episode, we dive into Acts 17 - where Paul stands alone in Athens and delivers the most famous speech in Greek history. Was it his greatest moment… or a turning point in how he approached ministry forever? We explore the tension between persuasive words and the power of God, and the necessity of spiritual teamwork.FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Dr. Carlo Serrano, and Jaemi Serrano. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.

S1, E23: In this episode, we dive into Acts 16, where Paul and Silas are led by the Spirit into a Roman colony - and end up in a jail cell. From Timothy’s calling to Lydia’s baptism, from demonic oppression to a midnight earthquake, this chapter is packed! But one detail stands out: Paul could have claimed his rights… and didn’t. What does this teach us about obedience, sacrifice, and discipleship?FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Dr. Carlo Serrano, and Jaedon Fletcher. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E22: In this episode, we dive into Acts 15, where the church faces its first major doctrinal crisis: Is salvation by grace alone, or does it require something more? The apostles and elders gather in Jerusalem for what becomes the first church council - navigating heated disagreement, cultural tension, and the radical inclusivity of the Gospel. FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Pastor Jeff Christensen, and Sam Fletcher. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E21: In this episode, we discuss Acts Chapter 14, where Paul and Barnabas continue on their first missionary journey. They faced many roadblocks, including Paul being stoned and thrown out of Lystra... then he went back! When sharing the Gospel, you can’t please everyone, so focus on pleasing Jesus. FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Pastor Jeff Christensen, and Pastor Nick Ertel. Hosted by Bryson Hopkins. Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E20: In this episode, we unpack Acts 13 - where a diverse, Spirit-filled church in Antioch becomes the launchpad for the first missionary journey. We also dive into the backstory of John Mark and the life lessons we can learn from his early failure and future redemption. The Holy Spirit may call you, but will your character keep you? It’s not just about being called - it’s about being Spirit-led all the way!FEATURING: Lead Pastor Chris Fletcher, Pastor James Lewis, and Deandra Bowie. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E19: In this episode, we discuss Acts Chapter 12 and how the Christian life is not always easy. Hardship is inevitable, but we talk about how we can navigate hardship through a robust "theology of suffering" and a persistent prayer rhythm. FEATURING: Pastor Nick Ertel, Pastor Jeff Christensen, and Pastor James Lewis. Hosted by Bryson Hopkins Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. At Manna Church our mission is to glorify God by equipping His people to change their world. And now, you’re invited to the table as we discuss how to Love God, Love each other, and Love the World.Walking With God Through Pain and Suffering: https://shorturl.at/MnGAmSuffering and the Sovereignty of God: https://shorturl.at/ye2MIWhen the Darkness Will Not Lift: Doing What We Can While We Wait for God--and Joy: https://shorturl.at/wKwyQDesiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist, Revised edition: https://shorturl.at/VASHd

S1, E18: In this episode, we discuss how the early church navigates conflict, cultural tension, and theological disagreement - but instead of division, they respond with humility and grace. We see how Acts 11 reveals the Spirit-led path toward unity, accountability, and kingdom expansion.FEATURING: Special Guest Pastor Jonathan Fletcher, Pastor Jeff Christensen, Anna Wiggins. Hosted by Sam Fletcher.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. You’re invited to the table for real conversations about faith, culture, and the everyday pursuit of loving God, loving each other, and loving the world around us.

S1, E17: In this episode we unpack Acts 10—where Peter’s rooftop vision is shattered by divine interruption and the Holy Spirit falls on the most unexpected people. This moment becomes known as the "Gentile Pentecost"—a turning point for the global church, the Gospel, and the way we see others.FEATURING: Special Guest Laura Fletcher, Pastor Jeff Christensen, and Sam Fletcher. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. At Manna Church our mission is to glorify God by equipping His people to change their world. And now, you’re invited to the table as we discuss how to Love God, Love each other, and Love the World.

S1, E16: In this episode, we explore Acts 9 - where Saul is radically transformed, and the early church is forced to wrestle with what grace really looks like. Featuring stories of spiritual sight, conviction, and the courage to sponsor someone into their calling.FEATURING: Anna Wiggins, Pastor James Lewis, and Samuel Fletcher. Hosted by Pastor Nick Ertel.Welcome to the Morning Manna Podcast. At Manna Church our mission is to glorify God by equipping His people to change their world. And now, you’re invited to the table as we discuss how to Love God, Love each other, and Love the World.