PODCAST · religion
The Overflow
by Brandon & Susan Thomas
Welcome to The Overflow—the bonus round of faith and real-life conversation with Brandon and Susan Thomas. Every week, they unpack the powerful insights, behind-the-scenes experiences, and personal reflections that didn’t quite fit into Sunday’s sermon.This is where the conversation gets practical, honest, and a little bit unscripted. Whether it's an encouraging word, a deeper dive into Scripture, or a hilarious moment from their week, Brandon and Susan bring fresh perspective and spiritual fuel to keep you going.It’s real talk, fresh takes, and full hearts.These are the conversations too good to cut and too real to miss.
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The Epidemic of Loneliness
We explore the epidemic of loneliness and its deeper spiritual roots. God designed us for connection with Him first and then others, yet modern life often works against that design. In a world that’s lonelier than ever, we must first find our identity in Christ as our true source of belonging, allowing His love to shape how we connect with others.QUESTIONS:What does your current experience of loneliness reveal about where you’re seeking connection or fulfillment?In what ways might you be looking to relationships, marriage, or family to meet needs that only Christ can fulfill?What intentional steps could you take to pursue a deeper, Christ-centered connection with others this week?READ MORE:God’s design that “it is not good for man to be alone” in Genesis 2:18Loving God first as the foundation for all relationships in Mark 12:30–31 “He places the lonely in families” in Psalm 68:6The importance of Christ-centered marriage and oneness in Genesis 2:24; Ephesians 5:31The role of the Church as a spiritual family in Hebrews 10:24–25; Acts 2:42The danger of seeking fulfillment outside of God’s design in Jeremiah 2:13
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Quit Shooting Bullets at the Church
We challenge the growing tendency to criticize the Church and instead call for a deeper look at our own hearts. We discuss God’s design for His bride, the purpose of gathering, and why motives matter. Our prayer is that the body of Christ will shift from tearing each other down to encouraging each other as God advances His kingdom on earth.QUESTIONS:Do you approach the Church with a critical spirit or a heart to support what God is doing?What might be driving your preferences or frustrations with the Church—control, hurt, or something deeper?How can you actively contribute to strengthening and encouraging your local church?READ MORE:God’s love and purpose for the Church in Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 5:25The call to unity and building up the body in Ephesians 4:11–13; 1 Thessalonians 5:11Guarding against a critical or divisive spirit in Philippians 2:3–4; Titus 3:9–11The importance of gathering together in Hebrews 10:24–25; Acts 2:42Serving and contributing within the body of Christ in 1 Corinthians 12:12–27; 1 Peter 4:10God examining the heart and motives in 1 Samuel 16:7; 1 Corinthians 13:1–3
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Driven
We explore what it means to exercise godly dominion by working together instead of alone. From embracing relational leadership and rejecting transactional mindsets to equipping others and celebrating growth, this episode challenges us to see people, share authority, confront bitterness, and build teams that reflect the unity of the Trinity.QUESTIONS:Are you exercising dominion in the spaces God has given you, or are you operating in isolation and control?Do you genuinely see and value the people you work with, or have relationships become transactional?Where might God be calling you to equip others, loosen your grip, and celebrate someone else’s growth?READ MORE:Humanity created for dominion and stewardship in Genesis 1:26–28The unity of the Trinity and believers in John 17:20–23Loving your neighbor as yourself in Matthew 22:39Equipping the saints for the work of ministry in Ephesians 4:11–12God doing immeasurably more in us in Ephesians 3:20 The danger of bitterness defiling many in Hebrews 12:15
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Who Submits to Who?
We dive into the hot topic of God’s design for mutual submission in marriage. Husbands bear the weight of Christlike headship through sacrificial leadership, and wives exercise powerful, faith-filled partnership by embracing God’s order. When both spouses seek to out-serve the other, families flourish and reflect Christ and His church.QUESTIONS:1. Do you view submission through a cultural lens of control or through God’s lens of selfless giving and reverence for Christ?2. As a husband, are you leading like Jesus—loving, serving, and carrying responsibility rather than demanding?3. As a wife, where might God be inviting you to trust His design and let your husband lead with unity?READ MORE:Submitting to one another out of reverence for Christ in Ephesians 5:21–33Jesus’ ultimate submission in Luke 22:42Husbands loving sacrificially in John 15:13The beauty of one flesh covenant in Genesis 2:24The strength of God as our “helper” in Psalm 33:20Love defined in action in 1 Corinthians 13:4–7
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Faith & the Field with Brandon Finnegan
Brandon Thomas welcomes special guest Brandon Finnegan, the only player to appear in both the College World Series and MLB World Series in one year. The two men have an honest conversation about Finnegan’s rapid rise, the struggle after baseball, and how surrendering to God reshaped his identity and gave him renewed purpose off the field.QUESTIONS:When do you feel a deep sense of joy and purpose in what you’re doing?What happens when we place our identity in our achievements but then life changes?What would it look like for you to fully surrender your plans, success, and identity to God right now?READ MORE:Finding your identity in Christ in Galatians 2:20; 2 Corinthians 5:17The temporary nature of worldly success and fulfillment in Ecclesiastes 1:2; Mark 8:36The joy of doing what God created you to do in Ecclesiastes 3:12–13; Colossians 3:23Surrendering your plans and trusting God’s purpose in Proverbs 3:5–6; Romans 12:1–2Abiding in Christ in John 15:4–5; Psalm 16:11God’s grace in seasons change in Isaiah 43:18–19; 2 Corinthians 12:9
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People Skills with Debra Fileta
Susan Thomas sits down with fellow counselor and author Debra Fileta to discuss the often-misunderstood topic of people skills. Together they explore how humility, communication styles, and healing from past wounds all shape the way we connect with others. Taking ownership of our own “ingredients” allows us to reflect Christ’s love in a world that desperately needs it.QUESTIONS:1.When you think about a difficult relationship in your life, what “ingredients” are you bringing into the dynamic?Why is it important to focus on the “plank” in your own eye before addressing the “speck” in someone else’s eye?How does your communication style communicate honor (or a lack thereof) toward the people in your life?READ MORE:Removing the plank before the speck in Matthew 7:3–5Becoming “all things to all people” for the sake of the gospel in 1 Corinthians 9:19–23Being known by our love in John 13:34–35Speaking truth in love in Ephesians 4:15God searching the heart and revealing what needs healing in Psalm 139:23–24
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3 Ways to Be More Productive
We unpack how Scripture calls us to work smarter, not harder. From Moses to the early church, God shows us how delegation, empowerment, and lifelong learning multiply impact. Getting the job done isn’t about control—it’s about trust, shared responsibility, and stewarding your God-given strengths.QUESTIONS:2.Where are you working hard but not working smart right now?What tasks or decisions do you need to delegate or empower others to handle?What is your “20 percent” sweet spot where God has uniquely gifted you to lead?READ MORE:Delegation and shared leadership in Exodus 18:13–26Empowering others for ministry in Acts 6:1–7Equipping the saints for the work of ministry in Ephesians 4:11–12Working faithfully according to your calling in Colossians 3:23Wise counsel and multiplying impact in Proverbs 11:14Growing, learning, and pressing forward in Philippians 3:12–14
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Guest: David Nasser
Brandon Thomas talks with Iranian-American pastor and speaker David Nasser about his family’s escape from Iran, his journey to faith in Christ, and the growing underground church in Iran. Their conversation highlights God’s power to accomplish the impossible and challenges believers to pray, support revival, and join God’s global mission today.QUESTIONS:How does David Nasser’s story challenge the way you think about sharing the gospel through simple acts of love and service?When you face situations that feel impossible, how does remembering God’s faithfulness strengthen your trust in Him?How might God be inviting you to pray for, support, or participate in what He is doing through the church in places like Iran?READ MORE:God strengthening His people and holding them by the hand in Isaiah 41:9–10The power of hospitality and serving others in Matthew 25:35–40 The church growing even through persecution in Acts 8:1–8The power of personal testimony in Revelation 12:11 The Great Commission to make disciples of all nations in Matthew 28:18–20God doing immeasurably more than we ask or imagine in Ephesians 3:20
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Guest: Dr. Heath Thomas
Brandon and his brother Dr. Heath Thomas explore one of the most challenging concepts in the Old Testament: holy war. They discuss God’s confrontation of sin and false worship in ancient cultures and how Jesus fulfills the entire biblical story. Their conversation also addresses biblical generosity, the meaning of the temple veil, and how Christians can pursue biblical truth, peace, and discernment in modern conversations about Israel and global conflict.QUESTIONS:How does viewing “holy war” as God’s confrontation with sin—not people—change how you read the Old Testament?What does it mean for Jesus to fulfill the entire Old Testament story in your everyday faith and obedience?What sources most influence your views on Israel and global conflict, and how can you intentionally filter them through God’s Word?READ MORE:The commander of the Lord’s army in Joshua 5:13–15Rahab’s faith and allegiance to God in Joshua 2 and Hebrews 11:31Jesus as the once-for-all sacrifice in Hebrews 9:11–14 and Hebrews 10:10–14The tearing of the temple veil in Matthew 27:50–51Blessed are the peacemakers in Matthew 5:9Testing and holding fast to truth in 1 Thessalonians 5:21
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How Should I Fast?
We explore biblical fasting as a powerful spiritual discipline that strengthens prayer, sharpens spiritual awareness, humbles the heart, and breaks unhealthy desires. Fasting is not punishment or performance—it’s an intimate, obedient practice rooted in Scripture, church history, and Jesus’ teaching that aligns your body and soul toward God’s purposes.QUESTIONS:What motivations shape your view of fasting—discipline, desperation, tradition, or intimacy with God?In what areas of your life do unchecked desires most need restraint and realignment through fasting?How could fasting help you hear God more clearly or seek His guidance in a current decision or struggle?READ MORE:Jesus teaching on fasting in Matthew 6:16–18Fasting and spiritual power in Matthew 4:1–11Fasting for humility, repentance, and renewal in Isaiah 58Strengthening prayer through fasting in Ezra 8:21–23Battling sinful desires and self-control in James 1:13–15
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Getting Healthy
We talk about getting healthy as worship, not vanity. Brandon shares a setback and a surprising lesson: thinner isn’t always healthier. Susan opens up about disordered eating, hormones, and new rhythms. Together they show how heart, habits, and moderation honor the Holy Spirit’s temple and break generational patterns for good.QUESTIONS:Where have you been tempted to treat health as appearance instead of stewardship?What “padlocked room” in your life needs to be surrendered to God, especially with food, drink, or discipline?What next step would move you toward being your God-given best, one sustainable choice at a time?READ MORE:“A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh” in Proverbs 14:30Your body as the temple of the Holy Spirit in 1 Corinthians 6:19–20“I pray that you may enjoy good health” in 3 John 1:2“Not everything is beneficial” in 1 Corinthians 10:23“It is not good to eat too much honey” in Proverbs 25:27“Their god is their stomach” in Philippians 3:19
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Relationships, Wisdom, & Real Life: Q&A Part 2
Brandon and Susan continue their relationship Q&A by addressing practical and spiritual wisdom for dating and marriage. They discuss preparing for marriage with the right motives, why sexual boundaries matter, and how sin can cloud judgment in relationships. The conversation also explores recognizing red flags, communicating hard truths with humility, and showing respect inside marriage through words, tone, and daily actions.They share personal stories from their own early marriage, parenting struggles, and seasons of growth, highlighting the importance of prayer, community, and surrender to God. Ultimately, this episode encourages listeners to pursue relationships God’s way—seeking transformation of the heart, cultivating healthy communication, and trusting God to shape both character and connection over time.QUESTIONS:Are you entering relationships from a place of need, or from a place of being filled by God first?Are there red flags you’ve ignored because emotions or attraction clouded your judgment?How well do you communicate difficult needs with humility and prayer before speaking?What habits in your daily life show respect and honor toward the people closest to you?READ MORE:God’s design for relationships and wisdom in decisions Proverbs 4:23; James 1:5Sexual purity and honoring God with the body 1 Corinthians 6:18–20; Hebrews 13:4Healthy communication and controlling the tongue Proverbs 15:1; James 1:19–20Marriage marked by love and respect Ephesians 5:21–33; Colossians 3:12–14Trusting God’s timing and guidance in relationships Psalm 37:4–5; Matthew 6:33
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Relationships, Wisdom, & Real Life: Q&A Part 1
We answer honest questions from the LoveSong series and address sexual ethics from a kingdom mindset. We talk about dating, marriage, and life’s in-between moments, offering practical, biblical wisdom and calling out the red flags couples shouldn’t ignore. God’s design for relationships is perfect and worth trusting in every season.QUESTIONS:Where are you letting bitterness, resentment, or motive-assuming shape an in-law relationship?If you’ve crossed physical boundaries while dating, what bold step would help you reset toward purity?What conversation do you need to have with your spouse about intimacy, expectations, and what might be blocking connection?READ MORE:Leaving and cleaving in Genesis 2:24Loving God and loving your neighbor in Matthew 22:37–39Bitterness defiling many in Hebrews 12:15Sex within marriage and mutuality in 1 Corinthians 7:1–5Pornography, lust, and purity of heart in Matthew 5:27–30God redeeming and making all things new in 2 Corinthians 5:17
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The Idol of Therapy
Brandon and Susan tackle a culturally sensitive topic—the idol of therapy. As a licensed counselor herself, Susan affirms the value of counseling while challenging the modern tendency to elevate therapy above Scripture and the work of the Holy Spirit. Together they examine how psychology, when separated from a biblical worldview, can offer conflicting theories and misplaced hope.The conversation walks through the history of psychological thought, the limits of human-centered solutions, and why Christ—not counseling—must remain the ultimate source of healing. They discuss the importance of biblical counseling, the danger of treating therapy as a savior, and the foundational truth that our deepest problems are spiritual in nature. Ultimately, they call listeners to place therapy in its proper role—as a tool, not an idol—and to seek freedom and transformation first in Jesus.QUESTIONS:Have you ever been tempted to rely more on therapy or human advice than on Scripture and prayer?When facing emotional or relational struggles, where do you turn first—for counsel, comfort, and direction?How do you discern whether the guidance you receive is rooted in biblical truth or cultural theory?In what areas of your life might you need to invite God to be your primary Counselor again?READ MORE:The heart problem at the root of human brokenness (Romans 3:23; Psalm 51:1–5)Jesus as the ultimate source of wisdom and healing (Isaiah 9:6; John 14:26)The limits of human wisdom apart from God (Proverbs 3:5–7; Colossians 2:8)True freedom found in Christ alone (Galatians 5:1; John 8:36)The role of Scripture in soul care and transformation (2 Timothy 3:16–17; Psalm 19:7–9)
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Guest: Holly Wagner
Susan Thomas and Pastor Holly Wagner have an honest conversation about walking through prolonged seasons of hardship. Holly shares her story of loss, betrayal, illness, and leadership under pressure and how God met her in the idle of it all. This episode explores spiritual resilience, standing firm in spiritual battles, and trusting God through life’s unexpected detours. Hard seasons are not the end of the story, but they are often the place where faith is forged. QUESTIONS:How do you guard your heart against bitterness or isolation when pressure piles up?What small, practical act of gratitude could help shift your focus in this season?Are you grounding yourself in God’s truth, or do you find yourself being pulled by other voices?READ MORE:“Though I walk through the valley” in Psalm 23:4Choosing gratitude in all circumstances in 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18Standing firm with the armor of God in Ephesians 6:10–18God working through suffering in Romans 8:18–28Faith being refined through trials in James 1:2–4
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Jesus Changes Lives
Brandon and Susan unpack one of the most foundational values of the Christian faith and the church: Jesus changes lives. Through Scripture, stories, and honest reflection, they explore why real change is necessary, why the world is broken apart from Christ, and why evangelism is not optional for believers or the church.The conversation addresses the tension between evangelism and discipleship, responding to cynicism around baptism and church growth, and clarifying that salvation is a gift of grace—not a work to be earned. Brandon and Susan also share practical, real-life examples of sharing faith in everyday moments, reminding listeners that transformation flows from relationship with Jesus, not behavior modification. Ultimately, this episode calls believers to live on mission, trust God with the harvest, and remain faithful to the truth that only Jesus can truly change lives.QUESTIONS:How has Jesus changed your life, and how clearly can you articulate that story to someone else?In what ways might you be relying on self-improvement or partial fixes instead of full surrender to Jesus?Are you actively praying for God to place people in your path so you can share your faith with courage and compassion?READ MORE:Jesus’ compassion for a broken and hurting world (Matthew 9:35–38)The mission of Jesus to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10)Salvation as a gift of grace, not works (Ephesians 2:8–9; Acts 2:38–41)The call to make disciples and live on mission (Matthew 28:19–20; Romans 10:14–15)True life change through Christ, not self-effort (2 Corinthians 5:17; Philippians 1:6)
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Guest: Dr. Eric Thomas
Brandon and his brother Dr. Eric Thomas discuss the power of Scripture, prayer, and long-term faithfulness in the life of the church. Eric shares why memorizing God’s Word matters, how repetition forms spiritual reflexes, and why preparation must come before crisis. Together they explore courageous leadership, protecting church culture, and building multi-generational vision. The conversation highlights faith that endures, pastors who stay rooted, and churches that faithfully serve their communities over time together faithfully.QUESTIONSHow intentional are you about memorizing Scripture? How does knowing God’s Word affect the way you respond to temptation or pressure?In what areas of your life or leadership are you preparing in advance rather than reacting in the moment?What kind of faith legacy are you helping build for the next generation through your consistency, obedience, and commitment?READ MOREThe importance of hiding God’s Word in your heart (Psalm 119:9–11)Scripture as a weapon against temptation (Matthew 4:1–11; Ephesians 6:17)Preparing spiritually before crisis hits (Proverbs 21:31; Luke 6:46–49)Faithfulness and longevity in leadership (1 Corinthians 4:2; Galatians 6:9)Passing faith to the next generation (Psalm 78:4–7; 2 Timothy 2:2)
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Building a New Family Tree
We talk about building a family with generational vision rooted in God’s design. From Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob’s broken patterns to Joseph’s reset, we share how any family can start fresh today. We address threats like favoritism, lying, unhealthy friendships, and substance abuse, and emphasize prioritizing faith in God above all else. Whether you’re a young adult, parent, or empty nester, it’s never too late to build a family culture that points the next generation to Jesus.QUESTIONS:What generational sins or family patterns are you repeating, and how can you fight that battle now so your children won’t have to?Are you prioritizing your child’s relationship with God above sports, academics, or social acceptance, or have those things become the foundation of your home?Who are the people influencing your family, and are you intentionally placing your children in proximity to friendships that will point them toward Jesus?READ MORE:“Unless the Lord builds a house” in Psalm 127:1–5The broken patterns of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in Genesis 12–50Joseph’s reset and redemption in Genesis 37–50“Bad company corrupts good character” in 1 Corinthians 15:33Speaking God’s truth to your children in Deuteronomy 6:6–9
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Guest: Juliet Lyons
Susan and Pastor Juliet Lyons explore how the true heart of worship goes beyond music and singing songs. Juliet shares her journey from hiding in church to leading worship globally and now pastoring Elan Church in Chicago with her husband. Together, Juliet and Susan unpack how authentic worship flows from the secret place and becomes a posture of surrender, a weapon in spiritual warfare, and an intimate connection with God.QUESTIONS:1. What does it mean that worship is more than “Christian karaoke”?2. What does it look like to worship God in your darkest season or when you have nothingelse to give?3. How can you shift from worrying about eyes on you to taking others where you’re goingin God’s presence?READ MORE:Worshiping in spirit and truth in John 4:23–24Victory through praise in 2 Chronicles 20:21–22“A living sacrifice” in Romans 12:1–2God inhabiting the praises of His people in Psalm 22:3Every knee bowing to Jesus in Philippians 2:9–11
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The Christmas Episode
Christmas is meant to be a season of joy, celebration, and deep connection, but for many families it becomes stressful, disappointing, or emotionally heavy. In this episode Brandon and Susan walk through 7 common Christmas traps that quietly steal our joy: unrealistic expectations, greed, comparison, relational tension, nostalgia, and grief.QUESTIONS:How have expectations impacted your past holiday experiences, both positively or negatively?Where do nostalgia or grief tempt you to miss what God is doing now?What practical steps can you take this year to keep Jesus at the center of Christmas?READ MORE:1 Peter 4:8 — “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”James 1:17 — “Every good and perfect gift is from above…”Luke 2:10–11 — “I bring you good news of great joy…”Exodus 20:17 — “You shall not covet…”1 Thessalonians 4:13 — Grieving with hope, not without itPhilippians 4:11–13 — Learning contentment in every seasonColossians 3:2 — Setting minds on things above
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We Sing Loud
We dive into one of Keystone’s core values: We Sing Loud. We examine what it means to worship God in spirit and truth, why congregational praise is a supernatural connection with God, and how the quality of our worship is directly tied to our intimacy with Christ. From biblical expressions like clapping and shouting to worship as warfare, we challenge the disconnect between private faith and corporate praise and encourage everyone to take their next step of obedience.QUESTIONS:Is there a disconnect between how you worship on Sunday and how you live the rest of the week? What does that reveal about your heart?What is your next step of obedience in stretching yourself during worship?If people are watching you worship, are you taking them where God is taking you, or are you holding back out of fear or self-consciousness?READ MORE:Worshiping in spirit and truth in John 4:23–24Biblical expressions of praise in Psalm 47:1; 95:1–2; 100:1–2, Psalm 150:4Honoring God with our hearts, not just our lips in Matthew 15:8Paul and Silas worshiping in prison in Acts 16:25-26Worship as warfare in 2 Chronicles 20:21–22
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Guest: Crystal Sparks
Susan and Crystal Sparks share a powerful conversation about God’s redeeming grace, the importance of family, and the call to truly see people where they are. Crystal opens up about her journey through brokenness, addiction, and abuse—and how God met her in the middle of it all with a new beginning. Together they remind us that no one is too far gone, everyone matters, and everyone needs a Day One with Jesus.QUESTIONS:What would you describe as your “Day 1” moment with God?How has brokenness in your past shaped the way you see people who are far from God today?In what ways can you slow down enough to really see people as image-bearers of God?READ MORE:Jesus and the woman at the well in John 4:1–42“The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy” in John 10:10God’s heart for family in Genesis 1:27–28 and Ephesians 5:21–33“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” in Romans 10:13Luke’s emphasis on Jesus reaching the overlooked in Luke 4:16–21
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Miracles and Healings
We explore the reality of miracles and healing today and share why we believe all the gifts of the Holy Spirit are still active and available today. From N.T. Wright’s theology of miracles as “appetizers” to true healing stories at Keystone, we discuss the now-and-not-yet tension of living in a broken world while anticipating God’s miraculous power. We talk about demonic oppression, sin’s impact on sickness, and how to pray boldly for healing.QUESTIONS:Do you truly believe miracles can happen today, or have you unintentionally adopted a view that limits what God can do?When was the last time you prayed boldly for someone’s healing instead of couching your prayer in safe, comfortable language?How can you see physical healing as a signpost pointing to the ultimate spiritual healing we all need through Jesus?READ MORE:Jesus’ mission to heal and proclaim the Kingdom in Luke 4:18–19The connection between mission and miracles in Acts 3:1–10Miracles as signposts to God’s coming Kingdom in Matthew 4:23–24The ten lepers and the one who returned in Luke 17:11–19Prayer, anointing with oil, and healing in James 5:13–16
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Should Christians Still Stand with Israel?
A wave of questions about Israel has been hitting us in our church, conversations with friends, and the wider culture. In this episode, Brandon and Susan unpack the biblical, historical, and current-day reasons Christians wrestle with their views on Israel. They break down the Old Testament covenant, end-times perspectives, Paul’s teaching in Romans 9–11, the meaning of “chosen people,” whether it’s ever appropriate to criticize Israel, and how to think about war, genocide claims, and modern geopolitics as followers of Jesus.QUESTIONS:1. What does the Bible teach about God’s covenant with Israel, and how should that shape the way Christians think about modern Israel?2. Brandon and Susan talked about loving Israel while still being able to critique its government. How do we apply this same “both/and” approach to nations, politics, or leaders today?3. Romans 11 describes a remnant, grafting in, and God’s heart for Israel. What does this passage teach us about God’s character and about our responsibility toward both Jews and Gentiles today?READ MORE:Genesis 12:1–3Genesis 22:172 Chronicles 33Psalm 122:6Matthew 1 Romans 10:1–4, 9–13Romans 11:1–24Romans 11:25–32
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We Always Bring Our Best
We dive into what it means to bring our best to God as an act of worship in every part of life. Excellence is not about perfection but about honoring God with gratitude for His greatest gift, Jesus. We explore the “best-bandits” that keep us from wholehearted worship and how to live as image bearers who reflect God’s character.QUESTIONS:What are the “best-bandits” (like laziness, greed, or misplaced priorities) that most often steal your focus from giving God your best? How does remembering that Jesus is God’s best change the way you approach your daily work and worship?In what areas of your life—home, church, or career—do you sense God calling you to raise the standard of excellence?READ MORE:Offering God pure sacrifices in Malachi 1:6–14“Do everything as unto the Lord” in Colossians 3:23Honoring the Lord with your firstfruits in Proverbs 3:9–10Jesus as the perfect sacrifice in Hebrews 10:10–14Living sacrifices and spiritual worship in Romans 12:1–2
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Parents, Speak Up!
We explore the power of communication in shaping family culture and discipling children. Drawing from the Shema in Deuteronomy 6, we emphasize speaking God’s truth intentionally and consistently in everyday life. When parents prioritize authentic faith and regular conversations, they set their children up to love God deeply and walk in His ways.QUESTIONS:How did the communication style in your family of origin shape the way you connect with others today?What intentional practices could you adopt to saturate your home with God’s truth in everyday conversations?How can you model authentic faith for your children without slipping into legalism?READ MORE:The Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4–9“Train up a child in the way he should go” in Proverbs 22:6“Trust in the Lord with all your heart” in Proverbs 3:5–6Parents teaching God’s commands in Ephesians 6:4God working in us to will and to act in Philippians 2:13
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The Money Truth That Changed Our Family
What if one truth about money could change your life and your marriage? In this episode of The Overflow, Brandon and Susan open up about how learning God’s design for money transformed their family and deepened their faith. Together, they unpack the biblical principle of the tithe, the difference between obedience and sacrifice, and why generosity is far more than a financial act.READ MORE:Malachi 3:8–12Malachi 1:6–8Luke 12:34Matthew 23:231 Corinthians 16:1–2Luke 16:10–13Acts 2:44–45Acts 4:36–37Acts 5:1–11Romans 12:1Matthew 5:17Genesis 3
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Stop Calling Your Bible Study a Church
We unpack about the difference between a Bible study and a church, emphasizing how the seven marks of a local body of Christ set it apart from small groups or friendships. When we minimize God’s plan for the church, we miss the life-changing work of His people gathered together.QUESTIONS:Which of the seven marks of a church do you see most clearly in your current church experience? What about least clearly?How can you shift from a casual view of church attendance to making it a life-giving rhythm in your family?In what ways does belonging to a local body of Christ strengthen your faith beyond what a friend group or Bible study can provide?READ MORE:“I will build my church” in Matthew 16:18Jesus’ prayer for unity in John 17:20–23“Do not neglect meeting together” in Hebrews 10:24–25Spiritual authority and leadership in Hebrews 13:17The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19–20
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Guests: Kevin & Sheila Gerald
We sit down with our friends Kevin and Sheila Gerald, pastors of Champion Center Church in the Pacific Northwest and leaders of TEAM Church. We talk about honor, marriage, and having a big, bold, biblical truth. This conversation reminded us that lasting love, spiritual authority, and truth-telling all start with the heart and a deep commitment to God's way.QUESTIONSWhere in your life do you struggle to show honor—whether up, down, or all around—and what steps can you take to realign with God’s call?Are you treating your marriage as a life-giving gift or as a duty? How would a mindset shift change how you show up in your relationship?When it comes to standing for biblical truth in a culture that often disagrees, what does “truth in love” look like for you?READ MOREDishonor limits God’s work in your life in Mark 6:4–5Superficial vs. authentic honor in Isaiah 29:13 Marriage and mutual honor in 1 Peter 3:7God’s design for gender and marriage in Genesis 1:27“The truth will set you free” in John 8:32
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Can Christians Enjoy Culture?
In this episode, we unpack how to recognize what’s good, what’s neutral, and what’s broken when it comes to what we're being fed by our culture. From music and movies to concerts and comedy, Christians often live between two extremes: mindlessly consuming or harshly withdrawing. But the Bible gives us a better way. God is the giver of joy, creativity, and beauty, yet He also calls us to wisdom, holiness, and discernment.QUESTIONS:Do you tend to mindlessly consume culture or harshly reject it?Where have you seen common grace in music, movies, or art...even from non-believers?What filters or boundaries could help you honor God while still enjoying creativity?READ MORE:Discernment and transformation in Romans 12:1–2Common grace in Matthew 5:45Guarding your heart in Proverbs 4:23Spiritual maturity through solid food in Hebrews 5:14
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Hard Places
We navigate suffering with faith, honesty, and the ministry of presence. Lament is not the enemy of faith—it’s a vital path to healing. We share stories from our life and leadership to help you hold onto joy, lean into God, and walk others through their pain with grace.QUESTIONS:1. How do you usually respond when you find yourself in a hard place?2. Who has ministered to you in your hard seasons, and how can you do the same forothers?3. What does it look like to “trust fall” into Jesus in the middle of pain?READ MORE:- “Go from strength to strength” in Psalm 84:5–7- Expressing sorrow in Lamentations (entire book)- “Prayer and petition” in Philippians 4:6–7- God hears and comforts in Revelation 6:9- “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” in 1 Peter 5:7
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The Truth About Sex
Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of abuse and other mature topics.We talk about the intimate and sacred gift of sex. Our culture tells us all kinds of lies about sex,and we need to replace those lies with the beauty of God’s design for sexuality within marriage.Our goal isn’t shame—it’s healing, clarity, and joy in following God’s plan.QUESTIONS:1. How have past experiences, trauma, or cultural messaging shaped your understanding ofsexuality?2. Why does viewing sex as a gift or a right shape the way couples enjoy it?3. In what ways can you make sexual intimacy in marriage an act of worship?READ MORE:“Every good and perfect gift” in James 1:17Dual Purpose of Sexual Intimacy in Malachi 2:15–16 and Song of Solomon (entire book)Fulfilling each other’s needs in 1 Corinthians 7:1–5Loving the Lord and each other in Matthew 22:37–39God’s design for marriage as covenant in Genesis 2:24
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We're Serious About Having Fun
We walk through the seven values that shape life at Keystone Church. Culture happens bydefault or by design, and we choose to design ours around biblical truths like Jesus changinglives, living in community, and embracing both reverence and celebration. We don’t believe youhave to choose between deep theology and vibrant worship—or between seriousness and fun.We’re raising a church family that worships loud, serves strong, and laughs often.QUESTIONS:1. Which of Keystone’s seven values most challenges or inspires you?2. What kind of culture is being unintentionally created in your home or community?3. How do you balance seriousness and fun in your walk with God?READ MORE:Jesus changes lives in 2 Corinthians 5:17“I made man and woman” in Genesis 1:27“Whatever you do, do it unto the Lord” in Colossians 3:23Heaven as a place of celebration and joy in Isaiah 25:6“It is not good for man to be alone” in Genesis 2:18
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What is The Overflow?
The Overflow is a place for discipleship through conversation as we go deeper into Scripture,stories, and struggles. We’re committed to loaves-and-fishes faith and jars-of-oil obedience. Wedive into relationships, current events, worldview, theology, church culture, and soul care, withplenty of surprises along the way.QUESTIONS:What does the word "overflow" mean in your spiritual life right now?Which of the categories (Relationships, Current Events, Worldview, Church, Bible and Theology, Soul Care) are you most excited to hear about?How do you navigate the tension between the pull of everyday life and what you know to be truth?READ MORE ABOUT...Loaves and fishes in John 6:1–14Jars of oil in 2 Kings 4:1–7I am the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob” in Exodus 3:6 and Matthew 22:32God blesses those who work for peace” in Matthew 5:9The human heart is the most deceitful of all things” in Jeremiah 17:9
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to The Overflow—the bonus round of faith and real-life conversation with Brandon and Susan Thomas. Every week, they unpack the powerful insights, behind-the-scenes experiences, and personal reflections that didn’t quite fit into Sunday’s sermon.This is where the conversation gets practical, honest, and a little bit unscripted. Whether it's an encouraging word, a deeper dive into Scripture, or a hilarious moment from their week, Brandon and Susan bring fresh perspective and spiritual fuel to keep you going.It’s real talk, fresh takes, and full hearts.These are the conversations too good to cut and too real to miss.
HOSTED BY
Brandon & Susan Thomas
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