CityChurch Podcast

In this episode of the City Church podcast, the focus is on leading well at home as the foundation for effective leadership and discipleship. Drawing from 1 Timothy 3, the conversation highlights that leadership begins in the private spaces of life, emphasizing that if the gospel is not transforming relationships at home, it cannot be authentically lived out in public. The discussion explores the importance of integrity, noting that true character is revealed in everyday family interactions, where attitudes, tone, and servant-hearted living matter most. Practical insights are shared on marriage, encouraging sacrificial love, mutual honor, and intentional investment in one another, as well as on parenting through consistent prayer, discipleship, and creating rhythms of faith within the home. The episode also underscores the value of consistency over perfection, the responsibility of providing faithfully for one’s family, and the impact of living a life where there is little difference between public and private character. Ultimately, the message calls leaders to close the gap between who they are at home and who they are in public, building a genuine faith that others can trust and follow. To learn more about City Church and how you can get connected, visit citychurchcharlotte.org

In this episode of the City Church podcast, the conversation centers on what it means to be hospitable in both spirit and practice, especially in the context of leadership and discipleship. Hospitality is presented as a vital and intentional expression of the gospel, not something to admire from a distance or outsource, but something to actively build into everyday life. The discussion highlights how creating space in our homes and schedules allows for deeper relationships, trust, and authentic community, reflecting the relational and accessible leadership style of Jesus. Biblical examples and teachings emphasize that hospitality extends beyond close relationships to include strangers, showing kindness and grace in ways that can carry eternal significance. Leaders are encouraged to be welcoming, emotionally available, and intentional, viewing their homes not as private retreats but as tools for ministry and connection. The episode closes with practical encouragement to start small, make room for others, and pursue hospitality with joy and love as a lifestyle that reflects the heart of God. To learn more about City Church and how you can get connected, visit citychurchcharlotte.org

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the conversation continues in the series on a biblical approach to leaders and disciple makers with a focus on living a life of generosity. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 9, the discussion highlights how generosity is essential to effective leadership and flows into every area of life including words, prayer, time, encouragement, and resources. The episode explores how generosity is rooted in trust in God as the source and contrasts this with the pull of mammon, describing how giving breaks selfishness and brings freedom. Through biblical examples and practical insight, listeners are encouraged to see generosity as a lifestyle that brings life to others, strengthens faith, and creates lasting impact both personally and in community. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and get connected, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode, we unpack how insecurity can quietly damage leadership and ministry more than external opposition ever could. The conversation dives into how leaders often fall into traps of comparison, control, and people-pleasing when their identity is not firmly grounded in Christ. Using powerful biblical examples and real-life leadership insights, the episode contrasts insecure leadership which limits growth with secure leadership that empowers others and builds thriving communities. Listeners are encouraged to develop self-awareness without becoming self-focused, to trust God’s calling over public opinion, and to lead from a place of spiritual confidence rather than fear. This message is a compelling reminder that the health of a leader’s inner life directly shapes the culture they create. Discover more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the series A Biblical Approach to Leaders and Disciplemakerscontinues with a message titled “Deep Love for People,” emphasizing that true biblical leadership is rooted in a genuine, Christlike love for others. The conversation highlights how God’s heart has always been for people, pointing to examples from Scripture such as Jesus’ compassion, God’s concern for Nineveh, and Paul’s words about carrying believers in his heart rather than treating them as tasks or responsibilities. Listeners are challenged to move beyond transactional relationships and instead embrace an unconditional love that reflects the heart of Jesus, recognizing that people are not interruptions but the very purpose of ministry. The episode also teaches that the true mark of a disciple is love, as seen in John 13, and that leaders reproduce who they are, meaning authentic love must be lived out, not just spoken. Practical expressions of this love include praying faithfully for others, being fully present, encouraging intentionally, and loving sacrificially with time, care, and compassion. Ultimately, this message calls believers to see people as family, to share life deeply, and to lead in a way that reflects the love of Christ in every interaction. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the series A Biblical Approach to Leaders and Disciplemakerscontinues with a message titled “Anointed to Lead,” focusing on how true spiritual leadership flows from the presence and power of the Holy Spirit rather than position or personal ability. The conversation explains that the anointing is what empowers believers to hear God’s voice, follow Jesus faithfully, and lead others through spiritual influence rooted in relationship with Him. Drawing from Scripture, including John 10 and examples throughout the Bible, the episode emphasizes that hearing God’s voice comes through time in His Word, worship, and daily connection with His presence, making leadership a lifestyle rather than a moment. Listeners are challenged to lead by example, recognizing that discipleship means helping others follow Christ by first walking closely with Him themselves. The discussion also highlights that Spirit led leadership creates both safety and momentum by encouraging rather than controlling, and by calling out God’s purpose in others instead of manipulating behavior. Evidence of the anointing is seen in obedience, humility, spiritual maturity, and the ability to influence others toward Jesus without pressure, ultimately producing more disciplemakers. This episode encourages believers to trust the Good Shepherd, lead with courage and conviction, and rely fully on the Holy Spirit as they help others grow in their faith. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the series A Biblical Approach to Leaders and Disciplemakerscontinues with a message titled “A Reputation of Spiritual Power,” focusing on what it truly means for leaders to carry evidence of God’s work in their lives rather than relying on personality, gifting, or human effort. Drawing from the examples of Jesus and Paul in 1 Corinthians 2, the conversation highlights that biblical leadership is marked by dependence on the Holy Spirit, not self-reliance, and that true spiritual authority flows from a life surrendered to Christ. The episode unpacks how this kind of power is revealed through humility, boldness, prayer, conviction, and a life that consistently points others to Jesus instead of self. Through biblical examples such as Paul’s transformation on the road to Damascus and Peter’s heart change in Acts 10, listeners are reminded that only the Holy Spirit can truly transform lives, break strongholds, and produce lasting fruit. The discussion also challenges leaders to examine the reputation they are building, encouraging them to pursue a life where people encounter Jesus through their leadership rather than being impressed by human ability. This episode ultimately calls believers to trust fully in the Spirit of God, live with spiritual authority, and lead in a way that reflects the power and presence of Christ. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the series A Biblical Approach to Leaders and Disciplemakers continues with a message titled “Anchored in God’s Word,” exploring how true leadership, discipleship, and spiritual growth must be firmly grounded in Scripture. The conversation emphasizes that biblical leadership flows from the character of Jesus and the authority of God’s Word rather than personal opinion, cultural trends, or changing ideas. Through examples from the life of Jesus, including His response to temptation in the wilderness, listeners are reminded of the power of declaring “it is written” and the importance of knowing Scripture personally in order to stand firm in moments of doubt, challenge, and decision. The episode also highlights how the early disciples relied on Scripture, how believers today can properly study and apply the Bible in context, and why leaders must handle God’s Word with integrity, accountability, and humility. In a world shaped by fast moving trends and short attention spans, this message encourages believers to slow down, read Scripture deeply, seek understanding, and allow God’s truth to shape every area of life from relationships and leadership to daily decisions and personal convictions. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the new series A Biblical Approach to Leaders and Disciplemakersbegins with a foundational message titled “Passionately in Love with Jesus,” emphasizing that true leadership and disciplemaking start not with strategy, gifting, or influence, but with a deep and genuine relationship with Christ. The conversation explores how the Great Commission flows out of intimacy with Jesus, highlighting that before believers are called to go and make disciples, they are first invited to come and worship Him. Drawing from Matthew 28, the life of Jesus, and the restoration of Peter, the episode teaches that effective leadership grows from daily devotion, consistent time with God, and a love relationship that produces courage, obedience, and spiritual overflow. Listeners are encouraged to cultivate daily rhythms of prayer, Scripture, and worship so that their lives and leadership flow from being filled with the presence of Jesus rather than striving through performance or pressure. This episode challenges believers to measure leadership not by influence or achievement but by how closely they follow Christ and how His love flows through them to others. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, listeners are introduced to an upcoming series titled A Biblical Approach to Leaders and Disciplemakers, offering an overview of what it means for every believer to walk worthy of their calling by helping others follow Jesus. The conversation explains that discipleship is not limited to church leadership but is a calling for parents, friends, students, and everyday believers to grow as apprentices of Christ while guiding others toward spiritual maturity. Drawing from Psalm 78 and 2 Timothy 2, the episode highlights two essential pillars of biblical leadership: integrity of heart and skillful hands, emphasizing both character and competence in disciplemaking. Using the powerful example of the Hebrew midwives in Exodus 1, the discussion illustrates how faithful leaders come alongside others to protect and nurture the promises of God in their lives, choosing to fear God rather than people and encouraging growth instead of discouragement. This introductory episode sets the vision for the series by challenging listeners to invest in others, embrace their role in making disciples, and become spiritual encouragers who help people step into God’s purposes. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the focus turns to one of the most hope filled prayers in Scripture as the conversation walks through Ephesians 3:14 to 21 and Paul’s prayer for inner strength and spiritual fullness. For anyone feeling tired, anxious, weak, or overwhelmed, this message highlights that real change begins from the inside out as Paul prays that believers would be strengthened with power through the Spirit in their inner being and that Christ would dwell fully in their hearts. Using the images of a solid foundation and deep roots, the episode emphasizes being rooted and established in God’s love rather than measuring worth by outward performance or circumstances, reminding listeners that their foundation is Jesus and His finished work. The discussion also unpacks repentance as a return to what Christ has already secured, encouraging believers to step out of shame and walk again in the fullness of God. Finally, the episode explores the promise that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think, not as shallow abundance, but as the overflow of His power at work within us in everyday life. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, a new series begins in the New Testament book of Ephesians with a powerful focus on identity, unity, and the mystery of the gospel revealed in Christ. Centered on Ephesians 3:1 to 13, the conversation unpacks Paul’s description of a mystery once hidden for ages, that through Jesus people from every background can become heirs together, members together, and sharers together in the promises of God. Listeners are reminded that before Christ there were barriers separating people from God, but through the finished work of Jesus those barriers were removed and believers now have direct access and oneness with Him. From Paul’s prison setting to the revival history of the church in Ephesus, the episode highlights that faith is not just personal but communal, and that the church plays a vital role in revealing the manifold wisdom of God to the world and even to the spiritual realm. This message encourages every listener to see themselves as included in God’s eternal story, to embrace community, and to live out their identity in Christ alongside others. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the conversation centers on celebration, joy, and the feast of Purim as seen in the book of Esther, reflecting on how God brought deliverance, victory, and restoration to His people after a season of fear and uncertainty. The discussion highlights how mourning was turned into gladness, how God’s faithfulness deserves to be remembered, and how believers today are invited to live with gratitude and joyful obedience in response to His work in their lives. Listeners are encouraged to celebrate what God has done, share His goodness with others, and walk forward with renewed hope and confidence in His promises. To learn more about City Church Charlotte and how you can connect, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the conversation continues in the book of Esther with a focus on courageous faith and the kind of courage that requires real risk. Using Esther’s decision to step forward before the king as the foundation, the discussion explores what it means to live beyond comfort, make difficult stands for integrity, and trust God in moments that feel costly or uncomfortable. The episode connects Esther’s courage to everyday life, including family decisions, workplace integrity, generosity, forgiveness, and faith conversations, while pointing to Jesus as the ultimate source of courage through His sacrifice and obedience. As the new year begins, listeners are encouraged to take faith-filled steps, keep their eyes on Jesus, and trust that God is with them as they live boldly in 2026. To learn more about City Church Charlotte or to join a service, visit citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church Charlotte podcast, the conversation continues through the book of Esther with a focus on miracles and the powerful reversal found in Esther chapters 5 and 6, where God works behind the scenes to turn impending destruction into unexpected honor. The discussion highlights Esther’s courageous step of faith, the fasting and consecration of God’s people, and the ordinary yet miraculous moment of a king’s sleepless night that leads to Mordecai being remembered and honored instead of destroyed. Through the contrast between Haman’s pride and God’s providence, the episode invites listeners to recognize that God is still the God of miracles today, often moving in quiet and surprising ways, and calls believers to trust Him in situations that seem impossible. City Church Charlotte exists to help people encounter God and become the light of Christ, and you can learn more about the church, join a service, or connect further by visiting citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of the City Church podcast, Mark and Steve continue their journey through the book of Esther by exploring the theme of purpose and the powerful truth that God positions ordinary people for extraordinary moments. As Esther chapters 3 and 4 unfold, listeners are drawn into the tension of a real and present threat against God’s people and Esther’s defining call to move beyond comfort and convenience into courageous faith. Through the contrast between Haman’s pride and opposition and Mordecai’s challenge to Esther, the conversation reminds us that our influence, identity, and opportunities are not accidental but are given for such a time as this. Connecting Esther’s story with the wider biblical theme seen in Ruth, this episode encourages believers to trust God’s bigger plan, remain faithful in every season, and step confidently into the purpose God has prepared for them. Join City Church Charlotte as we seek to encounter God, grow in purpose, and become the light of Christ, and learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve begin a new series in the book of Esther by exploring what it means to trust God during seasons when He feels silent. They discuss how Esther’s story unfolds without obvious miracles, prophetic voices, or direct mentions of God, yet clearly reveals His guidance, preparation, and sovereign timing behind the scenes. Using the imagery of being in a hallway between rooms, they reflect on how believers often find themselves in in between seasons filled with uncertainty, waiting, and unanswered questions, and how faith is formed by trusting God’s heart when His hand is not easily seen. The conversation emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit as comforter and guide, encouraging listeners to remain faithful, give thanks in all circumstances, and believe that God is working all things together for good even in the silence. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve conclude their series on Ruth by exploring how God is always working a bigger picture than we can see in the middle of our present circumstances. Using the imagery of stepping back from a painting, they reflect on Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz to show how ordinary faithfulness, daily obedience, and simple acts of kindness can shape extraordinary futures across generations. The conversation highlights how God redeems not only our pain and bitterness but also our small, unseen moments, weaving them into a story that impacts far more than we imagine, even when we feel overwhelmed or insignificant. Through biblical insight, personal reflection, and historical examples, listeners are encouraged to trust God’s perspective, stay faithful in the ordinary, and invest in people without knowing the full outcome, confident that God uses small steps of obedience for eternal purposes. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve reflect on the story of Ruth to reveal how God’s redemption is personal, public, and permanent, pointing clearly to Jesus as our ultimate redeemer. They explain how redemption in the book of Ruth required qualification, relationship, and a costly payment, and how Jesus fulfills all of these perfectly by becoming human, living without sin, and giving His life for us. The conversation highlights that God knows each of us by name, redeems us openly through the cross, and secures our future forever, reminding listeners that redemption is not just a theological concept but an invitation into restored relationship, freedom from shame, and lasting hope. Through biblical insight and powerful storytelling, the episode encourages listeners to trust that their past does not disqualify them and that God’s redeeming love is available to everyone who receives it by faith. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve explore the powerful theme of redemption through the story of Ruth and Boaz, revealing how this ancient narrative points directly to Jesus as our ultimate kinsman redeemer. They unpack what it means for Christ to be worthy, wealthy, and willing to save, and how His sacrifice provides everything needed to restore what we cannot fix on our own. Through Ruth’s journey of washing, anointing, and putting on a new garment, the hosts show how we position our lives to receive redemption by engaging with Scripture, welcoming the Holy Spirit, and embracing the new identity God gives us. They highlight the importance of stepping under the covering of Jesus for provision, protection, and purity, and they invite listeners to ask where they need Christ to redeem what feels broken or beyond repair. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve continue the Bigger Than You Think series with a deep conversation about being “in the market for favor” and how God positions people for divine opportunities through simple faithfulness, humility, and attentiveness to His presence. Using the story of Ruth, they highlight how ordinary moments become sacred when we choose to say yes to God, serve with a willing heart, and stay present in the places He leads us. Ruth’s quiet obedience, her humility, and her willingness to enter everyday spaces opened the door to extraordinary redemption, showing that favor is received rather than achieved and flourishes where God is honored. The hosts emphasize that expecting God’s favor is not entitlement but the natural outflow of relationship, and that true favor is ultimately found in the presence of God that shapes our character and our decisions in the smallest moments. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve continue the Bigger Than You Think series with a conversation titled “Faithful in the Small Things.” They unpack how simple, consistent acts of obedience, kindness, and devotion shape our spiritual lives far more than we often realize. Using Ruth’s story as a guide, they explore the hidden power of daily faithfulness, how God uses ordinary moments for eternal purposes, and why small decisions often unlock blessings we cannot yet see. Through practical examples and personal stories, they remind listeners that God is always working behind the scenes and that steady faithfulness positions us to experience His favor. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve continue the Bigger Than You Think series by exploring the blessing of loyalty and how small faithfulness can unlock great futures. Using the story of Ruth and Naomi, they highlight how true loyalty is not just an action but a reflection of character, revealed most clearly when life becomes difficult. They discuss how crises of belief test our faith, how God invites rather than forces us into relationship, and how Ruth’s remarkable commitment points us toward a faithful God who empowers our own loyalty. Through personal stories, biblical insight, and practical application, the episode shows how small acts of faithfulness build bridges for others and shape destinies far beyond what we can see. Join City Church Charlotte where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, hosts Mark and Steve continue their Bigger Than You Think series with a powerful conversation titled “Redeeming Identity.” They explore how easily we can lose sight of who we are when we let the world, painful experiences, or false voices define us instead of God’s truth. Drawing from the story of Naomi in the Book of Ruth, they show how she went from being “pleasant” to calling herself “bitter” after loss and hardship, and how God longs to restore our true identity in Him. The discussion unpacks how losing sight of God’s faithfulness can distort our self-view, but by returning to His promises and presence, we rediscover security, hope, and purpose. Through biblical insight and real-life reflection, this episode reminds listeners that our identity is redeemed and made new through Jesus Christ. Join City Church Charlotte, where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, hosts Mark and Steve begin a new series called Bigger Than You Think, exploring the powerful story of Ruth and what it teaches about trusting God through every season of life. They focus on the theme “From Famine to Fruitfulness,” looking at how God works even when life feels empty or barren. Through the story of Naomi, they unpack how times of spiritual famine can lead to isolation, discouragement, and loss, yet God’s redemptive power remains at work beneath the surface. The discussion highlights how God gently draws us back to Himself, inviting us to return to His presence, community, and purpose. Ultimately, Mark and Steve remind listeners that no matter how far we may feel from God, His invitation to return is always open and His faithfulness never changes. Join City Church Charlotte, where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, Mark and Steve discuss the concept of the “trellis and the vine,” a powerful picture of how discipleship flourishes when organic spiritual growth is supported by intentional structure. They explain that just as a vine needs a trellis to hold up its branches and bear fruit, the church needs rhythms, systems, and spaces that sustain and nurture discipleship. The conversation highlights the importance of balancing life in the Spirit with healthy organizational frameworks that help people stay connected, grow in community, and bear lasting fruit. Through examples from Scripture, personal reflection, and City Church’s own journey, Mark and Steve show how structure should serve life, not replace it, and how both are vital for a thriving church family. Join City Church Charlotte, where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this episode of Worthy of the Call, hosts Mark and Steve explore the true meaning of discipleship and what it looks like to follow Jesus while helping others grow in their faith. They describe discipleship as an apprenticeship where believers intentionally and relationally learn from Christ to become more like Him. The conversation emphasizes that discipleship is not about completing a program but about sharing life together through Scripture, prayer, and authentic relationships. They discuss the importance of guidance, mutual growth, and creating a culture of discipleship through small groups and community. Every believer, they remind listeners, is called and equipped to disciple others regardless of experience or background. Join City Church Charlotte, where you are invited to encounter God, grow in community, and become the light of Christ. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org.

In this bonus episode of Worthy of the Call, we pause the regular series to reflect on a foundational truth: the power and purpose of walking closely with God. Drawing from Exodus 33, Psalm 16, and John 15, we explore what it means to linger in God’s presence and live with Him, not just for Him.Learn how God’s presence transforms our lives, overcomes idols, and leads us into deeper joy and lasting peace.City Church Charlotte gathers in-person and online Sundays at 10:30 AM. Learn more at citychurchcharlotte.org

Mark Bailey and Steve Maag get together to talk about how to walk with God in our day to day life.

Mark Bailey and Steve Maag get together to talk about how to walk with God in our day to day life.

Mark Bailey and Steve Maag get together to talk about how to walk with God in our day to day life.

Mark Bailey and Steve Maag get together to talk about how to walk with God in our day to day life.

Mark Bailey and Steve Maag get together to talk about how to walk with God in our day to day life.

Mark Bailey and Steve Maag get together to talk about how to walk with God in our day to day life.

Walking with God isn’t about striving or performance it’s about relationship, partnership, and daily dependence. In this episode of Worthy of the Call, host Steve Maag and Pastor Mark Bailey unpack what it truly means to “walk with God” in everyday life. From Enoch’s example in Genesis to Jesus’ invitation in John 15, they explore how abiding, obedience, and intimacy with God transform ordinary moments into sacred encounters. You’ll hear why many believers struggle to feel close to God, how busyness and compartmentalization get in the way, and what simple habits like Scripture, prayer, worship, and creating space for God’s presence can keep us walking step by step with Him.

Being saved doesn’t always mean living free. In this episode of Worthy of the Call, host Steve Maag and Pastor Mark Bailey tackle one of the most overlooked steps in the Christian journey: finding true freedom in Christ. They unpack what Scripture teaches about freedom from sin, shame, fear, and lies, and explain why many believers still feel “stuck” even after salvation. With insights from Galatians 5, John 8, and 2 Corinthians, this conversation shows how truth dismantles bondage, how lies keep us trapped, and how knowing God experientially leads to lasting freedom. If you’ve ever wondered why peace and joy feel out of reach, this episode will help you step into the abundant life Christ has already secured for you.

Baptism is more than a ritual it’s an act of surrender, obedience, and faith. In this episode of Worthy of the Call, host Steve Maag and Pastor Mark Bailey unpack the meaning and significance of baptism in the Christian life. From honoring the faith of parents to publicly declaring new life in Christ, they explore how baptism symbolizes dying to the old self and being raised with Jesus into resurrection life. With insights from Scripture and voices like C.S. Lewis and A.W. Tozer, this conversation reveals why baptism is a vital step of obedience, a public testimony of faith, and a powerful reminder that in Christ, the old has gone and the new has come.

What does it really mean to know God? In this cornerstone episode of Worthy of the Call, host Steve Maag and Pastor Mark Bailey dive into one of the most important questions of faith: moving beyond simply knowing about God to truly experiencing Him. Together, they unpack Paul’s words in Philippians 3, explore the difference between religion and relationship, and share how knowing God transforms fear, weakness, and performance into intimacy, freedom, and grace. Whether you’re new to faith or longing for deeper connection, this episode will help you see that eternal life begins with knowing Him personally, relationally, and experientially.