Now What? by Good News Church

In this episode, the team unpacks the story of Hosea and Gomer and explores how the influences around us shape the way we think, respond, love, and follow Jesus. Using the illustration of a sponge, they discuss a challenging truth: when life squeezes us, what comes out is whatever we’ve been filled with. From media and friendships to parenting and spiritual drift, this conversation looks at the daily fight for influence in all of our lives.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode, we unpack what Jesus really meant by the “narrow path” and why following Him isn’t always easy. From small daily decisions to spiritual drift, we talk about what it looks like to truly surrender, not just call Him Savior, but Lord. Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

What do you truly treasure? In this episode, the team unpacks how life’s hardest and most unexpected moments reveal what matters most in our hearts. They talk through trusting God in uncertainty, the tension between earthly and eternal priorities, and what it looks like to follow Jesus when life feels upside down.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

What does it actually mean to follow Jesus in everyday life?In this episode, Josh and Pastor Rafael unpack the idea of “The Way of Jesus” and how it goes far beyond just belief, it’s about how we live, love, and treat others daily. They wrestle with one of Jesus’ most challenging teachings: loving not just our neighbors, but even our enemies.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode, we kick off the Way of Jesus series by unpacking a truth that’s both simple and deeply challenging: the Kingdom of God changes everything. From wrestling with distraction and perfectionism to confronting our need for control, we dive into what it really means to follow Jesus, not just in belief, but in everyday decisions.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

A real, honest conversation about how intimidation shows up in everyday thoughts and quietly steals your confidence. Through the story of David and Goliath, the team unpacks the difference between fake confidence and true confidence in God, why the enemy attacks your identity, and how remembering your history with God helps you fight back.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

Fear is loud. It tells you you’re not enough, that God won’t come through, or that you’ve already missed it. But fear doesn’t get the final say. Faith does.In this episode, we talk about what fear actually sounds like, where it comes from, and how to respond when it shows up. You may not be able to eliminate fear, but you can train your response to it. Because in the face of fear, your faith is either formed or forfeited.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

God knows your name, even when you feel lost, stuck, or like nothing in life is going right.Jacob spent his life striving, performing, and fighting for blessing. But everything changed when he wrestled with God. In that moment, God gave him a new name: Israel - “God fights for you.”Jacob walked away with a limp… and a new identity.This episode is about letting go of who you pretend to be and trusting who God says you are.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode, we continue our conversation about the importance of community. Starting with Genesis 2:18, we’re reminded that God designed us to do life together long before sin entered the world. We talk about why groups matter, how they create space for encouragement and growth, and what happens when people make intentional time for relationships that point them toward Jesus.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

What if serving isn’t just something we do, but something we’re becoming? In this episode, we dive deeper into Pastor Jason’s message on serving from the “In the Neighborhood” series. Joined by Debbie Cusick, we explore how serving others shapes our spiritual formation, strengthens our church community, and transforms the way we live our faith every day.Serving isn’t about filling a role or checking a box. It’s about becoming more like Jesus.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode, we talk about what it means to live on mission together. From the story of Zacchaeus to the Great Commission, we’re reminded that Jesus came to seek and save the lost, and He invites us to be part of that mission. We unpack what it looks like to go with His authority, not our own strength, and how simple obedience can impact generations. We also break down Kingdom Builders and how, as a church family, we partner locally and globally to reach the unreached and support the marginalized.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

Generosity is more than giving money, it’s a posture of trust. Living open-handed reflects the heart of a generous God and invites freedom into everyday life. With wisdom and balance, generosity shows up in simple ways: encouragement, serving, sharing resources, and trusting God with what we have.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

What if you’re more of a leader than you think?In this episode of, we unpack another week of our series,The Neighborhood, and dive deep into what it really means to live empowered. Pastor Jason breaks down the empowerment framework:I³ + O + C³ = EI (Identify, Invite, Invest)O (Opportunity)C (Convictions, Commitment, Capacity)E (Empowerment)Whether you're a parent, a leader, a student, or just trying to figure out your next step with God. This conversation will challenge you to ask: What is God inviting me into right now?Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of Now What?, Pastor Isaiah, Tonna, and special guest Will Prusia reflect on Sunday’s message and ask a powerful question: what happens when a generation is missed? They talk about the responsibility we all share to invest in the next generation, not just as parents, but as the family of God. From building “sticky faith” to the impact of having multiple trusted adults in a young person’s life, this conversation challenges us to stop coasting, step up, and make room for those who are still searching. Because the next generation doesn’t need cool Christians…they need available ones.Episode Resources Mentioned:-Sticky Faith — Dr. Kara E. Powell-Strong Enough to Last — David Boyd-The Life We’re Looking For — Andy Crouch-Retire with Purpose — from Retirement Reformation (ministry booklet)Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of Now What?, we unpack Sunday’s message, There’s Still Room and ask the uncomfortable question: if God is still inviting, why aren’t we? They talk honestly about trusting Jesus with people, stepping past fear and suspicion, and loving others even when it feels risky. From powerful moments in Scripture to real-life stories of showing up when it’s uncomfortable, this conversation will challenge you to see who’s missing, stop playing it safe, and extend the invitation anyway.Homework for the week:Write down one name. Who is God putting on your heart?Extend one relational invitation. Coffee, dinner, a walk, or a simple text.Consider Celebration Sunday as a low-pressure invite. Who could you bring with you?Ask yourself:Who am I committing to invite?A person with an "inward church-focus" asks:Did I like worship?Was the message for me?A person with an "outward church-focus" asks:Who is missing?Who did I show love to this week?Who did I invite? Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of Now What?, the team dives into Will You Walk Away From the Fight?, exploring the story of Shammah and the “bean field” from 2 Samuel 23. They talk about the personal battles that shape our faith and why the things that don’t seem worth fighting for often matter most.Through Scripture and honest conversation, this episode challenges listeners to identify the “bean field” they’re tempted to abandon, choose intentional spiritual disciplines, and remember that we were never meant to fight alone. You’ll be encouraged to stay, stand, and fight, not just for yourself, but for the people your faith will impact.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of Now What?, Pastor Jason Carter and Tonna sit down with longtime listener Courtney Franks to unpack Sunday’s message: It's Not Me, It's You. They dive into what it means to follow Jesus with integrity, commitment, and intentionality amid life’s busy seasons. From balancing family, work, and spiritual growth to serving others and leading well, they share personal stories, Scripture insights, and practical ways to live out your faith. Be challenged to step into your season, give your best, and make a lasting impact for God’s kingdom.Resources and Links:Join the 21-day Committed Fast with UsLearn more about Barna Research on Christianity in AmericaHave questions? Email us at [email protected]

Welcome to a brand new year and a brand new season of Now What?In this episode, the team kicks off 2026 by unpacking the word God has given our church for this year: Committed. After Sunday’s message, Pastor Jason, Sarah, and Tonna talk honestly about what it really looks like to stay committed, not just for a week, not just during a fast, but for the long haul.This episode feels a lot like a family meeting. Honest, encouraging, and focused on helping you build a sustainable, growing faith in 2026. Whether you’re jumping into the 21-day prayer and fasting season or just trying to figure out how to stay consistent this year, this conversation will help you take your next step.Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

As we head into January and our annual 21-Day Prayer & Fasting Intensive, Tonna Heinemann sits down with Pastor Jason and Pastor Isaiah to unpack what fasting really is and what it’s not. In this bonus episode, they talk about why fasting requires preparation, what biblical fasting looks like, and why fasting isn’t just about food but about increasing our appetite for God. They also discuss how fasting reveals our dependence on God, the importance of pairing fasting with prayer, and how to choose a fast wisely based on your season of life. The episode closes by casting vision for 2026’s word of the year: Committed, a call to realign our priorities, resist spiritual drift, and pursue Jesus with intention. 21-Day Prayer & Fasting Intensive begins January 5Devotionals available at Good News Church or an online version at www.goodnews.churchHave questions or stories?  Email: [email protected]

In this episode of the Good News Podcast, host Tonna Heinemann sits down with Pastor Isaiah Fern to unpack Sunday’s message focused on peace.As Christmas approaches, they explore how Advent helps anchor our hearts in more than busyness, gift-giving, or tradition—it points us to Jesus Himself as the Prince of Peace.  Rather than offering a checklist for “finding peace,” this episode invites listeners to fix their eyes on the Person of peace and let transformation flow from there.Whether you love Bible connections, Advent traditions, or practical faith conversations, this episode will encourage you to slow down, reflect, and rediscover peace in Christ this Christmas season. Resource Mentions:BibleProject Advent Guide:https://bibleproject.com/guides/advent/

In this episode, Tonna sits down with Pastor Greg to unpack the final week of our Ruth series and explore how ordinary, everyday faithfulness can shape a legacy far beyond what we can see. Together they dive into Ruth 4, the connection to David’s story, and the surprising impact of consistent obedience in seasons that feel mundane.If you’ve ever wondered whether your small, faithful decisions really matter, this conversation will encourage you to keep showing up—God is working in every ordinary moment.

In this episode, we wrestle with the honest and often unspoken question: How do you fight bitterness, especially bitterness toward God?Through the lens of Naomi and Ruth, we explore what it looks like to keep choosing faith when life has fallen apart, when grief feels heavy, and when trusting God doesn’t come naturally. Ruth’s choice to leave her home, her future, and her security to follow a bitter woman, and to follow a God she didn’t grow up with, speaks powerfully to anyone who has ever felt like the only believer in their circle.We talk about what it means to be a “Ruth” or a “Boaz” for someone else, because at some point, someone has been that for us. And when we recognize that, faith becomes something we don’t just hold onto… it becomes something we pay forward.

In this episode, we dive into one of the most powerful stories in Scripture — the Book of Ruth. What looks like a simple story of loss and loyalty actually reveals a deep picture of God’s faithfulness and redemption.Pastor Greg and Tonna talk about why Ruth is one of the most relatable books of the Bible, how Ecclesiastes and Job balance its message, and what these wisdom books teach us when life doesn’t go the way we expect. Along the way, they share stories from everyday life, from food and family to faith and frustration, reminding us that God often works in the ordinary moments we tend to overlook.Key Takeaway:Faith isn’t just built in the big moments, it’s formed in daily obedience, quiet trust, and a willingness to see God’s hand in the ordinary.

In this week’s episode, Tonna Heinemann sits down with Pastor Jason to dive deeper into Sunday’s message, a challenge that goes beyond belief and into desire.They unpack what it truly means to want transformation, not just talk about it. From learning to feed yourself spiritually to finding faith in the fire, this conversation is full of raw honesty and biblical insight. Tonna and Pastor Jason talk about:The difference between being saved and making Jesus LordWhy spiritual hunger is essential for growthHow to fight for your faith when life doesn’t make senseWhat it means to say, “Come hell or high water, it is settled”Learning to hear Jesus call your name like He did for Mary MagdaleneWhether you’re new to faith or have been walking with Jesus for years, this episode will challenge you to move from comfort to commitment — from being spoon-fed to feeding yourself.

How do we move from just reading the Bible to truly being transformed by it?In this episode, we unpack simple, practical ways to engage with God’s Word daily and build rhythms that actually fit your life.We also talk about finding what works best for you—because every season looks different. Whether you’re reading for relationship and renewal or diving in for deeper study, both matter.And remember: always read through the lens of the original audience the author was writing to. God’s Word is timeless—but how we live it out today can look different depending on culture and context.Takeaway Guide1. Prepare Before ReadingGoal: Create consistent habits that invite God’s presence and prepare your heart.Pray first: Before opening the Bible, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal truth and understanding (1 Corinthians 2:11–12).Example prayer: “Lord, open my eyes to see what You want to teach me today.”Schedule your time: Choose a daily time slot to meet with God and set a reminder.Pick a starting point: Start with John, Luke, or Acts, or follow a reading plan (Crossway, BibleProject, Bible App).Make a plan and stick with it: Print or bookmark your plan and track your progress.2. Read in ContextGoal: Understand what the text really says—not just what we want it to mean.Ask context questions: Who wrote this? Who were they writing to? What was happening at that time? What comes before and after?Note the type of context:Historical/Cultural: What was the world like then?Literary: What kind of writing is this (story, poetry, letter)?Covenantal: What promise or covenant was in place?Read surrounding verses: Understand the passage within its full neighborhood.Use study tools: Study Bibles, commentaries, or BibleProject videos can help deepen understanding.3. Reflect and ApplyGoal: Move from information to transformation.Reflect daily: Pause after reading to meditate on what God is saying (Psalm 1:1–3).Journal insights: Write thoughts, questions, or key verses in a notebook or your Bible margins.Ask growth questions:What does this reveal about God?What should I do differently?Live it out: Apply one truth each day—speak it, pray it, or act on it.Share what you learn: Talk with a friend, small group, or family member.Weekly ChallengeChoose one set time to read each day.Follow your chosen plan for seven days.Write one reflection per day (even a sentence).On Sunday, review your notes—what truth stood out most?📖 Explore more Bible study tools and resources at:goodnews.church/bible-study

This week, Tonna Heinemann and Pastor Isaiah Fern unpack why the Bible still matters today. They dive into how the Bible was written, how it’s been preserved through persecution, and why knowing what you believe and why you believe it is essential for every follower of Jesus.They also explore how the Bible was compiled, why certain books didn’t make it into the canon, and how translation efforts—like the YouVersion Bible App—are helping make God’s Word accessible to people around the world.Scripture Reference:Matthew 4:4 — “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”Resource Mentioned:YouVersion Bible App — Access the Bible in thousands of translations and languages.Key Takeaway:Don’t just own a Bible—open it.

Ever feel like your love tank is empty? Loving difficult people can feel impossible when we’re running on our own limited capacity. In this episode, we look at Jesus’ words in John 15:9: “As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you. Now remain in my love.” The truth is, we can’t give what we don’t have.When we stay connected to God’s love, we become channels of His grace to others. But when we disconnect, the warning signs show up fast: loss of peace, sharp words, irritability, and distraction.Join us as we unpack what it really means to remain in His love through daily rhythms of prayer, Scripture, community, and peace. You’ll discover that loving others well isn’t about trying harder, but about staying connected to the Source.Whether you’re navigating a difficult relationship, feeling spiritually dry, or simply want to love more like Jesus, this conversation will help you refill, refocus, and respond from the overflow of God’s love.

In a world marked by violence, division, and heartbreaking news, how can followers of Jesus respond faithfully while processing very real emotions of anger, fear, and grief? In this episode, we unpack the Christian response to tragedy, exploring both biblical truth and practical wisdom for maintaining faith in difficult times.From understanding the human heart and society’s drift toward normalized violence, to the tension between forgiveness and justice, this conversation offers a grounded perspective that is honest about pain yet rooted in hope. You’ll learn how prayer functions as both a spiritual discipline and emotional outlet, why seeing others as image bearers matters—even when it feels impossible—and how small, daily acts of service make a difference.

Money isn’t just about numbers- it’s about trust, legacy, and generosity. In this episode, we unpack God’s principles for finances and explore how biblical wisdom can transform the way we view money. From tithing as an act of trust to the New Testament’s call to radical generosity, we discuss what it means to steward resources with both discipline and gratitude. We’ll talk practical steps like budgeting, living within our means, and creating margin, while also digging into the spiritual reality that when we give with open hands, God often meets us in powerful ways. The journey isn’t about perfection but progress toward aligning our hearts with God’s design for money.

Prayer is one of the most essential parts of following Jesus—yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood and sometimes frustrating. In this episode of Now What, we talk about what prayer really is, why it matters, and how to navigate the seasons when it feels like God is silent.From practical tools to personal stories, we’ll explore how to deepen your prayer life and experience the closeness of God—whether you’re new to prayer or have been praying for years.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:The Bible Project — Free, in-depth videos and articles that explore the Bible’s themes, including prayer.God on Mute by Pete Greig — A powerful and honest look at unanswered prayer. Find it on our Amazon Storefront.

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