Upstream

In this thought-provoking episode, Pastor Chet, Sherry, and Zach dive deep into one of today's most controversial topics: How should Christians view the conflict between Israel and Iran?What You'll Discover: • The crucial difference between biblical Israel and modern political Israel • Why "pray for the peace of Jerusalem" doesn't mean what you think it means • Pastor Chet's surprising dinner story with Benjamin Netanyahu • How to navigate Gog and Magog prophecy without losing unity • Why their church welcomes both Iranian AND Israeli Christians • The real meaning behind Ecclesiastes "time for war" passage • How to pray specifically for world leaders (even ones you disagree with)Whether you're trying to understand biblical prophecy, navigate political tensions as a Christian, or simply want to hear how church leaders can disagree with grace - this conversation will challenge your thinking.Subscribe for more Upstream conversations that go deeper than surface-level Christianity.#Israel #Iran #BiblicalProphecy #Christianity #MiddleEast #Prophecy #Prayer #Unity

"Pastor Zach and Sherry tackle the controversial question: Should Christians support everything Israel does? Their answer might surprise you.""What's the difference between theological Israel and geopolitical Israel? Zach and Sherry break down why this distinction changes everything.""Sherry reveals why Genesis 12:3 doesn't mean what most Christians think it means when it comes to modern Israel."

Join Pastor Chet and Sherri Worrel as they tackle one of the most debated topics in Christianity today - women in ministry. In this thoughtful discussion, they explore the middle ground between complementarian and egalitarian theology, addressing key questions like:Can women be pastors? What does "pastor" really mean? How do we balance biblical structure with spiritual gifting? What roles can women have in church leadership? How do we avoid diminishing women's gifts while honoring biblical order?Drawing from examples like Lydia, Priscilla, and Deborah, this conversation offers a balanced perspective that affirms both God's organizational structure for the church AND His desire to use the gifts He's poured out on both men and women.Whether you're wrestling with these questions personally or seeking to understand different viewpoints, this discussion provides biblical insight without the typical divisiveness surrounding this topic.Key Topics Covered:The difference between gifts and titles in ministryHistorical context of women's roles in the churchPractical examples of women in leadershipBiblical examples of women in ministryFinding freedom within biblical structurePart of the Upstream series - stay tuned for the next episode addressing 1 Timothy 2 and the controversial "I do not permit a woman to teach" passage.#WomenInMinistry #BiblicalLeadership #ChurchLeadership #Complementarian #Egalitarian #ChristianWomen

In this insightful discussion, Pastor Chet Lowe and a panel of speakers explores the challenges of finding truth in today’s media-saturated world. They address the importance of discernment in recognizing news biases, grounding beliefs in the Bible as the ultimate source of truth, and speaking truth with grace in conversations with both believers and non-believers. The discussion also highlights the transformative power of discipleship, emphasizing the need for one-on-one relationships to foster spiritual growth. Through practical insights and real-life examples, the panel encourages listeners to engage the world with wisdom, love, and truth, equipping them to make an impact in their communities.

A live worship session celebrating faith, resurrection, and God's power through music, followed by a discussion on social and Biblical issues, emphasizing truth discernment and relationship building.

In "Christianity & the Olympics: Controversies & Spiritual Growth Part 2," the podcast encourages living faith boldly, defending beliefs with biblical knowledge, promoting peace, and choosing ministry over retaliation, inspired by Jesus.

Discover how Christians can navigate controversies and worldly opposition during the Olympics. Learn strategies for handling negative press, leveraging artistic expression, and turning challenges into opportunities for spiritual growth and sharing the Gospel in a post-Christian Europe.

In “Understanding Violence in Modern Society: Part 3” join Pastor Chet, Zach, Sherry, and Lexi as they share stories and examples, like Jesus’ teaching to turn the other cheek, revealing the strength in non-violence and civility. Discover faith-driven peace and transformation.

Join us to continue our insightful series, "Understanding Violence in Modern Society." In Part 2, Pastor Chet, Zach, Sherry, and Lexi explore the complex dynamics of violence through a biblical lens, discussing themes such as sacred versus profane violence and the role of Christians in a tumultuous world. Our esteemed panel delves into crucial questions about faith, societal values, and the believer's response to violence.

Join us for an insightful discussion on violence in contemporary society in this episode of Upstream, hosted by Zach with Pastor Chet, Sherry, and Lexi. "Understanding Violence in Modern Society: Part 1" explores root causes, biblical perspectives, and cultural impacts. We examine media desensitization and offer practical biblical insights for believers navigating this challenging world.

Welcome back to Upstream! In this second part of our series on influencers, we dive deeper into the conversation about the impact of social media and influencer culture on our lives as believers. If you missed part one, be sure to check it out first! Today, Sherry and the team discuss the Biblical implications of who influences us and how we use our influence in a world dominated by social media.Topics covered include:Biblical standards for evaluating influencersThe subtle but powerful influence of social media on young peopleHow to be a Christian influencer in today's cultureThe dangers of seeking popularity over genuine impactJoin us for an enlightening discussion that challenges us to be counter-cultural and rooted in God's word. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more content on living a faith-filled life in a digital age.

In this episode of Upstream, we dive into the fascinating world of digital influencers. From Instagram stars to YouTube sensations, influencers have become a major force in modern marketing and culture. Join us as we discuss how influencers build their brands, connect with audiences, and shape trends across social media platforms. Whether you're curious about the business behind influencer marketing or want to understand this influential phenomenon better, this episode is packed with insights and stories that will keep you engaged from start to finish. So grab your headphones and tune in to part one of our exploration into the ever-evolving world of influencers!

In part 2, the panel discusses the biblical ethics that should inform our perspective of justice and war. They also dive into what it means for a Christian to be “for” Israel in the current conflict. 

In this episode, our panel begins a discussion on the Israel Hamas conflict and discusses some of the history that has brought us to the current moment. 

In this mini-episode, the panel discusses what it looks like for a Bible-believing Christian to engage with politics. 

In part 2 of this series, our panel dives into what it looks like to live as citizens of heaven while residing in the United States.

In today’s episode, our panel begins a discussion on the continuum of worldviews that fall between patriotism and Christian Nationalism. 

In the final episode of this series, the panel discusses how Christians can grow in addressing questions in our own faith journey and how to come alongside of those who are deconstructing in theirs. 

In part 2, our panel continues the conversation on deconstructionism and evaluates some of its root causes.

Our Upstream team kicks off a new season of Upstream at a new home base. In today’s episode, we meet the new panel and begin a conversation about the definition of the term “deconstruction” as it relates to our Christian faith.