Real Life Theology Podcast

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ In this episode Jim Putman discusses his new book about how pride undermines discipleship and why the church’s primary mission is to make disciples. He explains biblical foundations—from Matthew 28 to Ephesians—and how Christlike humility restores identity, relationships, and purpose. Jim and co-author Chad introduce the “five spheres” framework (identity, church, home, work, spiritual realm), call the church to humble, kingdom-centered living, and offer practical resources for churches to teach transformational discipleship.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Nate Ross unpacks Luke 19 and the story of Zacchaeus to show that being "lost" means perishing, and that Jesus’ mission is to seek and save those who are dying spiritually. Through personal stories—from praying in the Indiana Senate to an unexpected encounter in Cancun—Nate urges listeners to let conviction fuel compassion and courage in reaching the lost.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Orpheus Hayward explains the authority and purpose of Scripture through 2 Timothy 3:16, showing how God-breathed Scripture teaches, reproves, corrects, and trains believers for every good work. He applies this to church leadership, the preacher’s role as God’s herald, and uses a pilot-and-tower analogy to encourage trusting Scripture in life’s uncertain moments.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Chad Ragsdale of Ozark Christian College shows how apologetics often serves Christians—especially young believers—by helping them identify what they truly believe. Through quick exercises and a target illustration, he sorts beliefs into three buckets: essential (bullseye), important, and personal convictions. He emphasizes essential beliefs—God’s existence, Jesus as the risen Lord, salvation by grace, and perseverance—and explains how clarifying these priorities improves discipleship and prevents personal convictions from becoming divisive. Romans 10:9 is given as a core affirmation of the faith.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Carol Swain shares her journey from academia and personal struggles to a devout Christian faith and explains what it means to live counterculturally in today’s society. She discusses life, marriage, race, gender, materialism, and biblical justice, offering practical, faith-based guidance drawn from her own experiences.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ In this episode of the Real Life Theology Podcast, Bobby Harrington warns that modern media and culture are "out-discipling" our churches and families, and urges Christians to "triple down" on discipling minds with Scripture. He outlines three responses: prioritizing deep, sustained theological formation; using trusted discipleship resources like the 775-page Real Life Theology project; and building a strong theological tribe to support and sustain disciple-making in local churches.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Jonathan Storment challenges Christians to resist cultural formation by returning to wholehearted discipleship to Jesus. Drawing on examples from Karl Barth and Dietrich Bonhoeffer and lessons from the Gospel of Matthew, he warns against inventing a convenient Jesus and urges a life marked by nonviolence, generosity, racial inclusion, and sacrificial love. This episode calls listeners to fall deeply in love with the true Jesus, embrace radical obedience, and prioritize disciple-making over political or cultural alignment.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ This episode explores how ministers and churches exhausted by pandemic, conflict, and change can be renewed by the Holy Spirit. Using Ezekiel’s vision of dry bones and Jesus’ teaching, David Young encourages listeners to ask God, “Can these bones live?” and to return to spiritual fundamentals. He offers practical steps—seek the Holy Spirit, pray in the Spirit, worship, give thanks, and submit to one another—and leads a prayer asking God to fill and revive weary hearts for renewed ministry and mission.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ In this episode Renée Sproles explains that our confidence in Scripture ultimately rests on who Jesus is and what He taught about the Old and New Testaments. She explores why many young adults are skeptical of outside authority—tracing roots from the Enlightenment to today’s internet and social media culture—and calls Christians to embrace wholehearted trust and submission to God’s reliable Word. Sproles shows how Jesus affirmed the Old Testament, prepared for the New Testament through the apostles, and modeled obedience to Scripture, urging listeners to respond by believing, obeying, and living under Christ’s lordship.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Nate Ross joins the Real Life Theology Podcast to explain why leaders must surrender to Jesus as their true success. Through personal stories (including a memorable baptism and a failed capital campaign), scripture from Acts and John 5, and practical leadership teaching, he shows how surrender — not effort or sacrifice alone — allows the Holy Spirit to move the church forward. Ross urges leaders to stop relying on their own striving, "raise the sail" instead of rowing the boat, and speak boldly about Jesus. This short episode offers encouragement, biblical clarity, and a call to trust Jesus as the source of power and hope.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ From the 2020 National Gathering, this episode challenges Christians to follow Jesus' radical command to love their enemies. The speaker examines how modern society personifies ideologies as enemies, shares real-life stories of reaching hurting youth, and calls listeners to lead with compassion without sacrificing conviction. Practical takeaways include building relationships across divides, feeding and caring for those we fear, and overcoming evil with good (Romans 12:20-21).

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Corey Tremble challenges listeners to pursue courageous, Spirit-empowered discipleship that neither hides from the world nor surrenders biblical truth. He explains how expository teaching, intentional relationships, and Holy Spirit-led insulation—not isolation—equip churches to reach diverse communities without compromise. The episode offers practical encouragement to lead boldly, love authentically, and invest time in making disciples who make more disciples.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Matt Proctor explores Revelation to answer the weary question, "Why am I doing this again?" He walks listeners through three powerful portraits of Jesus — a terrifying King (Revelation 1), a tender Lamb (Revelation 5), and a triumphant Warrior (Revelation 19) — to show why believers should persevere in gospel allegiance. Using personal stories, historical context, and pastoral encouragement, Proctor reminds us that Jesus’ holiness, love, and victory give purpose, courage, and hope in hardship.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Mark Moore explores discipleship as allegiance, beginning with a powerful true story about abuse that illustrates how knowing the Bible isn’t enough. He explains why regular Bible engagement is the most important discipline for spiritual growth and walks through three biblical passages that reveal different dimensions of the Word. Mark Moore shares practical tools—like memorizing core verses—and emphasizes that true growth happens when believers both live the Word and speak it into others’ lives, leading to healing, transformation, and multiplication of faith.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Reese Neyland shows that salvation means responding to Jesus' love with wholehearted pursuit, not relying on being "good enough." Using his own story of longing and the Gospel account of the rich young ruler, he explains that true faith is loving Jesus as much as He loves us — embracing grace, pursuing obedience, and caring for the lost. The episode challenges listeners to move from mere moral effort to gospel allegiance, reminding us that Jesus first loved and that our role is to love others into that relationship.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Marcos Mercado joins the Real Life Theology Podcast to challenge listeners to surrender biases and comfort zones so they can embrace God’s call to make disciples among people who are different from them. Through personal stories and ministries with Spanish-speaking and West Indian communities—Marcos illustrates how embracing and engaging God’s calling leads to transformed lives and flourishing ministries.

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Joanne Kraft explains that faithful discipleship is learned through training and that churches should equip the women already in the seats to disciple younger women, using the Mary and Elizabeth example from Luke 1. She shares personal stories—from emergency response training to parenting—and urges pastors and leaders to recognize, encourage, and raise up Titus 2-style relationships so faith-filled lives are passed to the next generation.

In this episode of Real Life Theology podcast, Shodankeh Johnson shares powerful stories of how the Holy Spirit is transforming resistant communities through disciple-making and ordinary believers. From a West African chiefdom opening to the gospel after years of rejection to prisoners and former rebels becoming disciples, Johnson emphasizes that God uses unlikely people to bring abundant fruit when the church yields control to the Holy Spirit. He calls for a paradigm shift—from professional to ordinary, control to the Spirit, and knowledge to obedience—urging listeners to trust that with God all things are possible. Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Jim Putman explains how the church’s simple, biblical mission is to make disciples who make disciples through loving, transparent relationships that follow both Jesus’ teachings and methods. This episode explores discipleship lived out in relationship, the authority of Scripture, and the danger of empty progressivism or hollow fundamentalism—pointing listeners to a church that models and multiplies life-change.

Dave and Sydney Clayton challenge listeners to stop being ashamed of the gospel, unpacking Romans 1:16 and the evangelism guilt cycle that keeps Christians silent. They outline a path from clarity about God’s goodness, to Holy Spirit conviction about people’s need for Jesus, to supportive community that equips ordinary believers to share the good news boldly. Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ In this episode from the Renew Conference, Matthew Bates unpacks the true meaning of the gospel through Romans 1—challenging common assumptions and calling us back to the Bible’s royal announcement: Jesus is King. Too often, the gospel is reduced to a formula about personal salvation or forgiveness of sins. But Paul presents something far bigger. According to Romans 1:1–5, the gospel is the long-promised good news that:  

Visit Renew.org to sign up for our email newsletter and be the first to know about new content, books and resources.  https://renew.org/ Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Aligning Your Church for Disciple Making: Five Shifts, One Mission This session is on aligning churches around Jesus’ method of intentional, relational disciple making. They share personal ministry journeys and describe the challenge of shifting established, often attractional church systems toward obedience-based disciple making rooted in the Great Commission (Matthew 28) and maturity in Christ (Colossians 1). Using an iPhone vs. Android operating system metaphor, they argue disciple making can’t be added as a side program but must reshape the whole church. They present research findings that fewer than 5% of U.S. churches have a culture rooted in Jesus-style disciple making and outline four core practices seen in exemplary churches: convictional leadership, a contextual and reproducible model, high expectations, and cultural alignment. 00:00 Welcome & Why Disciple-Making Alignment Matters 04:03 Jeff Story: From Slogans to a Disciple-Making Culture 08:23 Paul: Leaving Membership Metrics for Making Disciples 13:24 Training Process Overview + The iPhone vs. Droid ‘Operating System’ Metaphor 18:59 State of Disciple-Making in North America + Jesus’ Intentional Relational Method 21:40 The Great Commission Explained: ‘Make Disciples’ and Obedience-Based Faith 27:09 Beyond ‘Evangelism’ vs ‘Discipleship’: One Mission—Salvation to Maturity 32:38 Bobby’s Journey: Coleman, Church Systems, Disciple Shift, and Renew’s Theology 41:07 Research Findings: Why Most Churches Aren’t Disciple-Making Churches 44:57 The 4 Core Practices: Convictional Leadership, Model, Expectations, Alignment 50:09 Why Revelation’s First 3 Chapters Matter Most (Jesus & the Churches) 52:38 Legacy Church Challenge: Shifting to a Discipleship Culture Without Blowing It Up 54:05 Defining a Disciple: Follow Jesus, Be Changed, Join the Mission 56:01 Personal Discipleship Story: Learning to Make Disciples Who Make Disciples 57:24 Why People Struggle to Disciple: The Baseball Analogy 01:00:15 Early Momentum & Staff Culture Change: Baptisms, Next Steps, Monday Stories 01:02:01 The Discipleship Mandate ‘Cumulative’: Jesus, Church, NT, Leaders, Gathering 01:11:43 Alignment Killers: Competing Agendas, Wrong Metrics, Instant-Result Expectations 01:13:36 10 Levers to Use (Not Demonize): Large Church, Sunday, Pulpit, Tradition, Doctrine 01:23:20 Five-Part Roadmap: Missional, Theological, Philosophical, Organizational, Relational 01:27:57 Break, Then Missional Alignment Deep Dive: Love God, Love People, Then Make Disciples 01:32:38 Avoiding Counterfeit Missions: Tradition, Buildings, and Other Substitutes 01:33:20 C.S. Lewis on the Church’s One Job: Make Disciples 01:34:12 Mission-Driven vs Member-Driven (and Keeping Jesus’ Mission Central) 01:35:04 Theological Alignment: Why Clarity Is Kindness 01:36:52 Beyond ‘Essentials/Non-Essentials’: A Better Doctrine Framework 01:42:29 A Replicable System for Teaching Core Doctrine (Catechism DNA) 01:44:35 Micro Groups & ‘Trust and Follow Jesus’: Simple, Proven, Reproducible 01:47:42 Philosophical Alignment: The Jesus Way—Intentional, Relational, Transformational 01:52:29 Organizational Alignment: Leading Change Without Blowing Up the Church 02:00:26 Relational Alignment: Love, Conflict, and the Messiness of Real Discipleship 02:11:31 Next Steps & Final Charge: Join the Alignment Training + Keep Making Disciples https://renew.org/ Check out the following from RENEW.org: Events: https://renew.org/resources/events/ Videos: https://renew.org/media/videos/ Podcasts: https://renew.org/media/podcasts/ Articles: https://renew.org/articles/ Free eBooks: https://renew.org/resources/free-ebooks/ Books: https://renew.org/resources/books/ Audiobooks: https://renew.org/resources/audiobooks/ Sermon Tools: https://renew.org/resources/sermon-tools/ Job Board: https://jobs.renew.org/ Renew University: https://renewuniversity.org/ Real Life Theology Conversations: https://renew.org/rltc/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early.  https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Be sure to like, subscribe and follow on social media!  You can find us on: Instagram: @the.renew.network  Facebook: Renew.org  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@RENEWnetwork Twitter: @therenewnetwork TikTok: the.renew.network  Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/RENEW

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ In this episode of the Real Life Theology Podcast, recorded during the 2025 RENEW Gathering Monday Night Session, leaders from Renew Creative explore why creatives are essential to disciple making in the local church—and how discipling artists helps the whole church slow down and savor what truly matters

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ In this episode of the Real Life Theology Podcast, recorded during the 2025 RENEW Gathering Monday Evening Session, we hear from Joseph, Director of Disciple Making Trainings with TCM International Institute, as he shares firsthand stories of disciple making across Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and Ukraine

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ The episode features Carl and Alicia Williamson from Harding University discussing a training session on disciple-making called 'Multiplying Disciples on College Campuses and Beyond.' This session is on useful disciple-making tools accompanied by a Q&A. 

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ The episode features Carl and Alicia Williamson from Harding University discussing a training session on disciple-making called 'Multiplying Disciples on College Campuses and Beyond.' This session is on a specific disciple-making process,

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ The episode features Carl and Alicia Williamson from Harding University discussing a training session on disciple-making called 'Multiplying Disciples on College Campuses and Beyond.' This session is on big-picture strategies. Carl, a Bible professor, and Alicia, a Bible faculty member, share their experiences in church planting and working with emerging adults. They emphasize the role of prayer, accountability, vision, and expectation (PAVE) in fostering a disciple-making movement. They recount various personal stories and examples of how these principles have led to the multiplication of disciple-making groups among students, ultimately inspiring transformational faith journeys. The script also includes a practical component where participants are encouraged to pray and reflect on God's role in their disciple-making efforts.

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ This episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, hosted by David Young, focuses on practical ways of making disciples with a sense of urgency. David emphasizes that disciple making requires genuine love for others and the willingness to invest in relationships. He uses personal anecdotes and examples from scripture to illustrate the importance of relational disciple making. Various strategies and methods, such as Discovery Bible Studies, are discussed to help individuals and churches cultivate a disciple-making culture. David also addresses challenges like disciple-making fatigue and suggests integrating discipleship into existing church activities. The podcast concludes with actionable steps, emphasizing prayer, intentionality, and leveraging current relationships to start discipling others effectively.

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ This episode features the 'Theological Thunderdome' session from the 2025 Renew gathering. Hosted by David Young, with several panelists. The discussion explores the radical ethics of the early church and their relevance today. They examine whether these ethics are reproducible in the modern era, touching upon issues like multi-ethnicity, care for the poor, non-violence, radical sexual ethics, and a pro-life stance. The panel also delves into the tension between living these ethics and participating in democratic governance, and the importance of humility in living out these values.

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ This episode of the Real Life Theology Podcast explores the crucial topic of family discipleship. Featuring contributions from Daniel McCoy, Mike Rozenboom, Caitlyn Rozenboom, and Jason Henderson, the discussion emphasizes the role of parents as primary disciplers and offers practical strategies for nurturing faith in children. Key points include creating intentional rhythms and routines, the importance of relational engagement, and forming meaningful connections. The episode also addresses the challenges posed by modern distractions and provides frameworks for answering tough questions children might have about faith. The overarching theme stresses the urgency and importance of embedding God's principles within the family setting.

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ This episode of the Real Life Theology podcast is part three of a series discussing the implementation and benefits of sermon-based small groups in church communities. Hosted by Josh, lead pastor, and his brother Andrew, the family pastor, the episode explores the challenges and transformations experienced in their youth ministry and how those lessons have been applied to adult small groups in their church. They emphasize the importance of active and empathetic listening in engaging with God's word and integrating small groups with sermon teachings. The discussion also covers practical strategies for managing small group dynamics, such as the use of seasons for group commitments, the role of apprenticeships in growing groups, and maintaining engagement despite busy family schedules. The episode concludes with a Q&A session addressing various aspects of small group management and their holistic approach to church discipleship.

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/ This episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, part two of a three-part series, divess into sermon-based small groups. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recasting the vision regularly, referring to it as the Nehemiah Principle, and highlights church attendance issues. Speakers TC and Ben share personal stories of transformation and faith, stressing the effectiveness of small groups in discipleship, modeled after Jesus’ methods. They discuss key aspects such as setting the pace, close proximity to group members, patience, and continuously pointing members to God's purpose. They also share practical advice on maintaining connection and fostering personal growth within small groups.

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In the final episode of the Real Life Theology podcast's four-part series on discipling people into emotional and spiritual health, the focus is on implementing change. The episode discusses practical steps for integrating emotional and spiritual health within church congregations. Key points include the importance of prayer, establishing a long-term vision, and the slow nature of transformational change, which can take 7-10 years. Real-life examples from Uganda illustrate the challenges and perseverance required. Various resources and books are recommended to aid in this journey. Emphasis is placed on patience, intentionality, and starting small to ensure meaningful impact. Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/

In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, part of a series on discipling people into emotional and spiritual health, the focus is on pathways to growth and healing. Key points include the importance of stage-appropriate transparency, understanding spiritual battles, identity in Christ, and the need for spiritual disciplines. The episode also delves into Marcus Warner's FISH acronym (Freedom, Identity, Spirit, and Heart-Focused Community), emphasizing the significance of freedom and identity for new believers. Additional topics cover supporting spiritual children, young adults, and the needs of spiritual parents and grandparents, alongside practical strategies for emotional well-being such as the real prayer method for healing trauma. The importance of humility, vulnerability, and ongoing emotional and spiritual growth is underscored throughout.  Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/

In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, the discussion delves into the stages of spiritual and emotional maturity as part of a four-part series on discipling people into emotional and spiritual health. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding these stages: spiritual infants, children, young adults, parents, and grandparents. Key points include the necessity of emotional maturity for true spiritual growth, the identification of spiritual maturity through behavioral examples, and the essential role of guiding individuals through these stages. Additionally, the episode contrasts spiritual gifts with maturity, underscoring the difference between outward talents and true spiritual growth. For more insights and resources, join RENEW.org's Newsletter. Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early, and join RENEW.org at one of our upcoming events. Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/

This is part one of a 4 part series on: Discipling People Into Emotional and Spiritual Health  In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, host JP Robinson and Michelle Eagle kick off a four-part series on discipling people into emotional and spiritual health. They stress the importance of building mature disciples and differentiate between educational and disciple-making church models. The episode includes personal anecdotes, an explanation of emotional and spiritual maturity, and a spiritual assessment tool. Tune in to learn more about creating a Christ-centered community led by mature and emotionally healthy disciples. Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ and get our Premium podcast feed: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/. Join RENEW.org at an upcoming event: https://renew.org/resources/events/

This is part 2 of a two part series on Discipling Elders. To view part one click here: https://reallifetheologypodcast.podbean.com/e/discipling-elders-pt-1/?token=70e426e235caaf76b4a006860b953979  In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, David Roadcup guides a comprehensive discussion on effective methodologies for discipling elders, leveraging his extensive experience as a professor and ministry leader. He shares his approach to spiritual development and leadership training, underscoring the importance of relational discipling. The episode dives into the critical necessity of spiritually deep elders and explores the practical implementation of training programs aimed at fostering strong, Christ-centered leaders. For those looking to deepen their understanding and application of discipleship in church leadership, this episode is filled with invaluable insights. Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early. https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/ Join RENEW.org at one of our upcoming events: https://renew.org/resources/events/

This episode of the Real Life Theology podcast is part one of a series on Discipling Elders. In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, we begin a two-part series on the crucial topic of discipling elders, featuring insights from Dr. Gary Johnson and Dr. David Roadcup. The discussion centers on the continuous need for elders to be discipled, emphasizing the creation of a 'life map' to become more Christ-like and responsible leaders. The episode highlights six challenges elders face — Evangelism, Leadership, Discipleship, Equipping, Recruiting, and Structure. Johnson breaks down three vital areas for addressing these challenges: assessing spiritual health, creating action plans, and maintaining accountability. The episode provides practical guidance, reflecting on personal discipline, the importance of scriptural engagement, and the role of the Holy Spirit in personal growth. Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early.  https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Join RENEW.org at one of our upcoming events: https://renew.org/resources/events/

This episode of the Real Life Theology podcast is part four of a series exploring disciple making movements within established churches. The focus is on how fresh revival movements have historically arisen every 50 years in the U.S. The discussion highlights the urgency for a new awakening, expected around 2025, and emphasizes the necessity for intentional disciple pathways in churches. It also covers developing hybrid church models, strategies to foster movement thinking, and collective collaboration among churches. The episode concludes with practical advice, book recommendations, and personal anecdotes from the speaker, followed by a Q&A session addressing the implementation of these concepts. Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early.  https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Join RENEW.org at one of our upcoming events: https://renew.org/resources/events/

In this episode of the Real Life Theology podcast, the discussion centers around the implementation of disciple-making movements within and alongside established church structures. The hosts weigh the pros and cons of running parallel disciple-making initiatives either under a single church umbrella or as independent entities. They highlight the importance of aligning church vision with biblical examples and modern pathways, emphasizing swift transition from being found by Christ to becoming a leader. The conversation also covers practical steps for churches to adopt these principles, including training programs and cohorts designed to foster rapid disciple multiplication. The episode underscores the need for a strategic commitment to God's broader vision for community transformation. Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early.  https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Join RENEW.org at one of our upcoming events: https://renew.org/resources/events/

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early.  https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Join RENEW.org at one of our upcoming events: https://renew.org/resources/events/  

Join RENEW.org's Newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/ Get our Premium podcast feed featuring all the breakout sessions from the RENEW gathering early.  https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Join RENEW.org at one of our upcoming events: https://renew.org/resources/events/ In this session, Josh Howard discusses principles and practices for initiating disciple-making movements within local church settings. Drawing from both biblical and contemporary examples, Josh emphasizes radical prayer and fasting, abundant seed sowing of the gospel, equipping ordinary believers, and relinquishing control for broader kingdom impact. He introduces a parallel track model, where dedicated discipleship pathways run alongside traditional church structures. The session includes insights from Bryan King and David Kaufman on practical training methods, case studies of successful implementations, and strategies for church leaders to foster a culture of multiplication. The session concludes with a call for unity and renewed vision for bringing revival and awakening to American churches.

This episode comes from one of RENEW.org’s National Gatherings. Interested in joining one of our events? Check out upcoming events here: https://renew.org/resources/events/  Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  The Power of Obedience: Embracing Scripture in Every Aspect of Life In this compelling talk, Reneé Sproles shares her experiences from homeschooling her children and participating in the School of Christian Thought. She highlights the inspiring stories of Miriam Ros Depor and Marza Amirta, two Iranian women who risked their lives to distribute true New Testament Bibles in Tehran. Reneé emphasizes the importance of obedience to scripture, explaining that true understanding and freedom come through living out the verses daily. She also discusses the challenges faced by different cultures in adhering to biblical teachings and stresses that obedience to God's word is essential for both children and adults. Join Reneé in exploring how a consistent commitment to scripture can transform lives and deepen one's relationship with God. Key Takeaways 00:00 Introduction and Speaker Background 01:02 Inspiring Story of Miriam and Marza 04:18 The Importance of Obedience in Faith 07:54 Parenting and Teaching Obedience 15:58 Cultural Challenges and Biblical Teachings 19:14 Conclusion: The Power of Obedience

This episode comes from one of RENEW.org’s National Gatherings. Interested in joining one of our events? Check out upcoming events here: https://renew.org/resources/events/  Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  The Importance of Women's Discipleship: Empowering the Future Join us for an inspiring talk on the transformative power of discipleship, especially among women. Sydney Clayton shares her personal journey from a non-religious upbringing to finding faith through intentional discipleship. She emphasizes the critical role women play in passing down spiritual legacies and outlines three compelling reasons for investing in women's discipleship: Christ's example, the church's health, and cultural impact. Learn practical steps on how to effectively invite, inform, imitate, and innovate in disciple-making, ensuring both men and women unite to further God's kingdom. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 00:46 The Importance of Discipleship 02:55 Influence of Women in Discipleship 05:09 Three Reasons for Women's Discipleship 11:12 Practical Steps for Discipling Women 16:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.   

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.   

This is part 1 of a 3 episode series.  Part Episode 1: Personal Journey & Church History Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us understand the journey, challenges, and vision of Black Christian leaders as they build community, overcome obstacles, and create a more inclusive future for their churches. This episode centers on a hosted gathering of African American members of Christian churches, led by Lamont Francies, senior pastor of Delta Bay Community Church. The session’s primary aim is to foster a nationwide network and fellowship among Black Christian leaders, addressing both the challenges and opportunities unique to their communities. Lamont Francies opens by sharing his personal journey, beginning with his upbringing in San Franciesco’s Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood. Raised by a single mother in a lower socioeconomic environment, Francies’s early life was marked by resilience and faith. His academic path took him from the projects to Pepperdine University, where he experienced a significant cultural shift and met his first Black professor, Dr. David G. Holmes. This mentorship inspired Francies to consider ministry, though his initial ambitions were in media and entertainment. Francies recounts his formative years in ministry, starting in Bakersfield, California, where he learned humility and servanthood by performing tasks like driving the church van before being allowed to preach. This experience taught him the importance of knowing and serving the congregation before assuming leadership. Eventually, he returned to the Bay Area, taking on ministerial roles in small congregations and navigating the complexities of church leadership as a young, unmarried man. A pivotal moment in Francies’s journey was his congregation’s displacement due to racial tensions and resistance to integration within predominantly white Churches of Christ. After being asked to leave a shared church space, his group moved through various temporary locations before ultimately purchasing the very building from which they had been expelled. This full-circle moment underscored both the challenges and triumphs of Black congregations seeking stability and autonomy. The episode dives into the broader context of Black churches within the Restoration Movement, highlighting the isolation and legalism experienced within the Churches of Christ. Francies describes the difficult decision to leave this fellowship, motivated by a desire for greater inclusivity, growth, and freedom in worship practices. The transition to the Independent Christian Church was facilitated by connections with leaders like Gary Shear and organizations such as the Solomon Foundation, which provided support and a sense of belonging. Francies also addresses the lack of representation and support for Black congregations at national Christian conventions, such as ICOM, and the need for spaces where their voices and histories are recognized. He recounts efforts to build networks and host rallies focused on urban service and fellowship among Black Christians, though these initiatives faced challenges and eventual decline. A recurring theme is the importance of documenting and preserving the rich history of African American involvement in the Restoration Movement, particularly within Independent Christian Churches. Francis calls for the creation of resources, websites, and books to ensure this legacy is not forgotten. The episode concludes with a vision for the future: building a nationwide fellowship that honors the past while addressing contemporary needs, fostering unity, and creating opportunities for growth and leadership among Black Christian communities.

This audio comes from one of RENEW.org’s National Gatherings. Interested in joining one of our events? Check out upcoming events here: https://renew.org/resources/events/  Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  In this talk, a graduate of Harding School of Theology reflects on his journey. He discusses the challenges of applying biblical teachings in a multicultural and ecumenical world. Highlighting the importance of surrendering to Jesus and the spirit of humility and gentleness, he shares personal experiences and interactions with pastors from various denominations. The speaker emphasizes the need for compassion and respect in theological discussions, aiming to build bridges between different Christian tribes while holding firm to the teachings of faith, repentance, and baptism. 00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgements 01:37 Theological Reflections and Personal Stories 03:23 Challenges in Interdenominational Relationships 06:44 Jesus' Teachings on Humility and Gentleness 09:38 Surrendering Outcomes to God 11:54 Restoration Theology and Baptism 16:18 Partnerships and Unity in the Christian Community 18:13 Concluding Prayer and Final Thoughts

Get early access to all of the 2025 RENEW Gathering Breakout Tracks: https://reallifetheologypodcast.supercast.com/  Visit RENEW.org for great resources on Disciple Making and Theology.  Today’s episode will help us thrive in our calling by learning from personal experiences on understanding burnout, maintaining health, and multiplying our unique gifts without burning out. In the episode titled "Thrive in your Calling: Multiplying Disciples without Burning Out," the speaker, Christian, begins by expressing gratitude for participating in the workshop, emphasizing its purpose is to help attendees orient themselves towards where they want to go. He introduces his family and their extensive experience leading churches and doing missionary work around the world.  Christian shares his unique and tumultuous life story, detailing how his early life as a refugee and his diverse experiences across various countries shaped him. He describes significant hardships, such as being in a concentration camp, experiencing poverty, and undergoing multiple relocations. Despite these challenges, he pursued education in economics and a successful career in music, eventually becoming a pop star. However, at the height of his success, he faced clinical depression, which led him to Christianity. His conversion prompted a dramatic career change to ministry work, where he found new purpose and fulfillment. He later experienced a midlife crisis which forced him to recalibrate and reassess various aspects of his life, leading to a significant revival in his professional and personal life. The episode transitions to his wife, Deb, who shares her perspective on their life in Russia, dealing with her health issues exacerbated by the climate, and experiencing burnout. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and spiritual health, sharing practical steps she took to manage her wellbeing and avoid burnout. Deb outlines the stages of burnout, explaining the emotional and physical symptoms of each phase, and underscores the importance of rest, margin time, and maintaining a healthy routine. Christian then introduces three key shifts for thriving in one's calling without burning out. The first shift involves moving from survival mode to a state of clarity, creativity, and resilience, emphasizing the need to switch from fear-based living to one fueled by God's love and power. He illustrates this point using the relationship between Paul and Timothy, highlighting the importance of recognizing and nurturing one's specific gifts. The second shift focuses on identifying one's unique strengths and turning them into undeniable authority. Christian stresses that many ministry leaders lose their individuality by conforming to general roles, and he uses the parable of the talents to illustrate the necessity of multiplying one's gifts rather than burying them. He warns against rationalizations and excuses, urging leaders to take responsibility for their unique contributions. The final shift is to multiply one's gifts before multiplying disciples. He explains that effective discipleship stems from leaders who have developed and scaled their unique gifts. This involves creating systems and frameworks that allow their influence to be replicated and extended beyond their immediate reach. He underscores the potential for modern technology to vastly expand one's impact. The episode includes a testimonial from Greg, a ministry leader who experienced significant personal and professional transformation through Christian's coaching program. Greg highlights the positive changes in his marriage and ministry, attributing them to the reframing and intentionality fostered by the program. Christian concludes by offering further resources and support for those interested in deeper involvement, including a coaching cohort and an intensive workshop aimed at providing practical steps for implementing the discussed shifts. He encourages attendees to invest in their personal development to sustain their calling and avoid burnout.