Providence Threads: Weaving Stories of Faith, Transformation, and Community

In this special bonus episode of Providence Threads, Gary and Karen Tinklenberg share their journey serving with World Renew—responding to disasters and bringing hope to communities in need.Hear powerful stories of faith, perseverance, and God’s provision in the midst of challenges. From rebuilding homes to building trust, this conversation highlights what it means to serve Christ in real, tangible ways.Where might God be calling you to serve?#ProvidenceThreads #FaithInAction #WorldRenew

Discipling the Next Generation with Kevin HarrisIn this final episode of the season, we sit down with Kevin Heeres, our new Youth Pastor at Providence Church, to talk about what it truly means to disciple the next generation. Kevin shares his personal journey of faith—from making his faith his own as a teenager, to seasons of running from God, to rediscovering his identity in Christ through intentional discipleship.In this conversation, we explore:• Moving from inherited faith to personal faith• The difference between friendship and intentional discipleship• Healing from shame and embracing identity in Christ• A vision for raising up students who hear God’s voice and live on missionThis is more than youth ministry—this is about multiplication: disciples making disciples.Whether you're a parent, a leader, or someone passionate about the next generation, this episode will both challenge and encourage you.Listen, share, and be part of what God is doing.

In this episode of Providence Threads, host Toby Gruppen sits down with Leo Ojidoa, Providence’s worship leader, to talk about calling, discipleship, and the heart behind worship.From a difficult childhood in Chile to discovering Jesus through brokenness, Leo shares a powerful testimony of how God used the church, mentorship, and a simple invitation to shape his life and calling.This conversation goes beyond music. It’s about identity, purpose, and understanding that worship is not just what happens on stage—it’s a life surrendered to serving the Bride of Christ.If you’ve ever wondered how God can use your gifts, or if you’ve felt “not ready” or “not enough,” this episode is for you.Every believer has a calling. The question is: will you take the step?

In this episode of Providence Threads, host Toby Gruppen sits down with Leo Ojidoa, Providence’s worship leader, to talk about calling, discipleship, and the heart behind worship.From a difficult childhood in Chile to discovering Jesus through brokenness, Leo shares a powerful testimony of how God used the church, mentorship, and a simple invitation to shape his life and calling.This conversation goes beyond music. It’s about identity, purpose, and understanding that worship is not just what happens on stage—it’s a life surrendered to serving the Bride of Christ.If you’ve ever wondered how God can use your gifts, or if you’ve felt “not ready” or “not enough,” this episode is for you.Every believer has a calling. The question is: will you take the step?

In this episode of Providence Threads, host Toby Gruppen sits down with special guest Scott Guerink to talk about disciple-making, leadership development, and church multiplication.From his early life in West Michigan to years of missionary work in Mexico, Scott shares how God shapes calling through discipleship, obedience, and everyday faithfulness. Together, they explore why multiplication is essential for the Church today—and why it begins with ordinary believers who are willing to take the next step.This conversation will challenge you to move beyond simply attending church into actively making disciples, discovering your calling, and investing in others.Every believer is called. Every believer is sent.The question is: are you living it?

In this episode of Providence Threads, Pastor Toby Gruppen sits down with John Wagenveld, Director of Multiplication Network, to explore what it really means to multiply disciples, leaders, and churches.Together, they unpack a critical reality: even in places like West Michigan—often seen as “churched”—we are far from gospel saturation. With more churches closing than opening, the call to multiplication is more urgent than ever.This conversation challenges us to move beyond a Sunday-centered faith and into a Kingdom mindset—where every believer is called, equipped, and sent to make disciples who make disciples.You’ll discover:Why church planting is essential for reaching the worldWhat the global church is doing right—and what we can learn from itHow everyday believers can live on missionThe shift from “church-centered” to “Kingdom-centered” thinkingWhy God calls us out of comfort and into multiplicationThis is not just about starting churches—it’s about living a life of purpose, mission, and participation in what God is doing in the world.The harvest is plentiful. Are we ready?

In this episode of Providence Threads, Pastor Toby Gruppen sits down with John Wagenveld, Executive Director of Multiplication Network, to explore one of the most urgent topics for the Church today: the multiplication of disciples, leaders, and new churches.Drawing from real-life experiences around the world, John offers a compelling perspective on the contrast between the Church in North America and the rapid growth seen in the Global South. Why, with more resources and theological training, are we seeing less multiplication? What is holding the Church back from fully living out its mission?In this conversation, we explore:The shift from a consumer church to a sent churchThe impact of over-professionalizing pastoral leadershipThe gap between biblical knowledge and boldness in living out our faithCultural barriers that hinder discipleship in North AmericaPractical next steps to live a more intentional and visible faithThis episode is an invitation to rediscover the heart of God: making disciples who make disciples, and living a faith that goes beyond the walls of the church.Share this episode with someone who is ready to take their next step in following Jesus.

Discipling Kids and FamiliesIn this episode of Providence Threads, Toby Gruppen sits down with Marcy Rodríguez, Director of Children’s Ministry at Providence Church, to talk about the heart of discipling the next generation.They discuss how faith formation begins at home, why authentic conversations with children matter, and how parents can model faith through everyday life. Marcy encourages families that they don’t have to have everything figured out—discipleship grows through honesty, relationship, and pointing kids back to Christ.This conversation is full of practical insights for parents and anyone passionate about helping children grow in their faith.

In this episode of Providence Threads, Toby Gruppen talks with Steve Deloof about the importance of discipleship and recognizing the opportunities around us to share the gospel.Steve shares personal stories of how he is intentionally sharing his faith and walking alongside others in discipleship, reminding us that God can use everyday relationships to transform lives.

In Episode 08 of Providence Threads, Toby Gruppen sits down again with Pastor George DeJong to explore biblical leadership through the lens of Scripture and lived experience.Leadership is more than influence — it is the willingness to take responsibility.Through the imagery of ancient fields, wilderness journeys, and the altar of sacrifice, Pastor George challenges us to consider:Are we listening to God’s voice or only our own?What “corners” of our lives belong entirely to Him?Are we helping others grow — or preventing their maturity by rescuing them?A deep, reflective conversation on discipleship, maturity, and the shaping work of the wilderness.Season 2 focuses on multiplying disciples, leaders, ministries, and churches — so that more people may know the good news and peace of Jesus Christ.Listen. Reflect. Share.

What is biblical leadership?In this episode of Providence Threads, Pastor George DeJong joins Pastor Toby Gruppen to unpack leadership through the lens of responsibility:Personal responsibility (Adam & Eve)Moral responsibility (Cain & Abel)Corporate responsibility (Noah)In a time marked by division and cultural tension, how do we lead faithfully?This conversation explores servant leadership, spiritual discernment, cultural engagement, and the call to build bridges instead of walls.Leadership in the Kingdom isn’t about power — it’s about faithful response.Listen in and join the conversation.

In this episode, we hear the extraordinary story of Kingsway Ministries in Uganda. What began as one woman’s response to devastating loss during wartime has become a thriving school and discipleship ministry serving nearly 100 vulnerable children.Kingsway provides academic education, spiritual formation, vocational training, and daily prayer. Many of these children are orphans or victims of war-related trauma. Through intentional discipleship and gospel-centered community, they are being prepared for a future of faith and purpose.Discover how Providence Church partners globally to boldly share Jesus’ love and hope.Learn more: KingswayUganda.com

In this episode of Providence Threads, host Toby Gruppen is joined by two remarkable voices: biblical scholar Lois Tverberg and Old Testament teacher Milly Erema Maturu.Together, they explore how cultural context shapes the way we read and understand Scripture. Drawing from lived experience in East Africa, biblical scholarship, and shared journeys in Israel and beyond, this conversation invites us to read the Bible not as distant observers, but as insiders—with curiosity, humility, and community.Lois and Milly share powerful stories that bring Old Testament narratives to life: sacrifices, the plagues, gleaning in the book of Ruth, hospitality, and communal life. These insights challenge Western assumptions and deepen our understanding of Scripture as a living story rooted in real people, cultures, and practices.This episode is part of our Season focus on the multiplication of disciples, leaders, ministries, and churches, reminding us that deeper biblical understanding fuels faithful discipleship and shared mission.🎧 Listen in, be curious, and rediscover the Bible as a story meant to be read together.

In this episode of Providence Threads, we sit down with George DeJong for a rich and thought-provoking conversation on what it truly means to be a disciple of Jesus.Drawing from Scripture, Jewish tradition, and decades of pastoral experience, Pastor George reframes discipleship not as having the right answers—but as becoming lifelong learners who ask faithful questions, live provocatively, and grow in community.Together, we explore:The biblical meaning of disciple as learnerWhy asking questions is central to spiritual growthThe renewal of the mind and the process of sanctificationHow Scripture shapes our spiritual “muscle memory”Why discipleship cannot happen in isolationThis episode invites you to slow down, engage God’s Word with curiosity, and rediscover the joy of learning in community.

In this episode of Providence Threads, host Toby Gruppen sits down with therapist Jenna Speek for an honest and deeply meaningful conversation about anxiety, gratitude, shame, and healing.Together, they explore how God has wired our minds and hearts in ways that invite healing rather than isolation. Jenna shares powerful insights from her professional work and personal experiences, helping us understand why anxiety and gratitude cannot coexist, how shame impacts identity, and how grace breaks cycles of fear, addiction, and self-condemnation.In this conversation, they discuss:The difference between guilt and shameWhy anxiety is so pervasive in our culturePractical, faith-based tools for responding to anxietyThe importance of prayer, breath, community, and safe spacesHow healing often begins when we stop trying to “fix” and start truly listeningFinding freedom and identity in Christ rather than in our failuresThis episode is an invitation—to slow down, to breathe, to trust God in the midst of pain, and to remember that you are not alone. If you or someone you love is wrestling with anxiety, shame, or addiction, this conversation offers hope, compassion, and a pathway toward healing.#ProvidenceThreads #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndMentalHealth #AnxietySupport #HealingJourney #ShameAndGrace #ChristianDiscipleship #EmotionalHealth #hollandmichigan

In this episode of Providence Threads, Toby Gruppen sits down with José Durán for a thoughtful conversation about the current situation in Venezuela.This episode offers a spiritual perspective on the crisis, reflecting on faith, hope, and the role of the Church in times of uncertainty. Rather than focusing only on political developments, the conversation invites listeners to consider how God is at work amid suffering and how believers are called to respond with prayer, compassion, and trust in God’s sovereignty.We hope this episode encourages you to pray, reflect, and remain anchored in hope.

New Year, New ResolutionsIn the first episode of Season 2 of Providence Threads, we begin the year with an honest and practical conversation about new beginnings and spiritual resolutions.In this episode, we are joined by José Durán to talk about the importance of reading the Bible as a foundational practice for the Christian life—especially as we set intentions and rhythms for a new year.Together, we explore:Why reading Scripture matters for spiritual growthCommon challenges people face when trying to stay consistentDifferent practical ways to read the Bible with purposeThe SOAP method (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer)Wayne Cordeiro’s Bible reading system and how it helps build lasting habits.This conversation is an invitation to move beyond short-lived resolutions and toward a sustainable, life-giving engagement with God’s Word.Whether you are starting fresh or looking to renew your commitment to Scripture, this episode offers encouragement, clarity, and practical tools for the year ahead.Watch, reflect, and start the year grounded in the Word.Available now on YouTube and Spotify.

Introduction Second seasonWe’re excited to launch Season 2 of Providence Threads, a season focused on Discipleship, Leadership development and Church multiplication.Whether you are a leader, a disciple, or simply curious about how faith connects to everyday life, this conversation is an invitation to reflect, listen, and grow.New season. New conversations. One shared calling.Available now on YouTube and Spotify.

Special Guest: Kory Plockmeyer – Executive Director of Movement West MichiganIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Kory Plockmeyer to talk about One Community Weekend — a powerful initiative coming to West Michigan from May 14–18, 2025.We explore how churches across the region are uniting for a shared mission:- A community-wide day of service- 31 days of 24/7 prayer for 31 local churches- A multicultural night of worshipThis conversation casts a hopeful vision of what God can do when His people come together as one Church for one community.Don’t miss this episode that calls us to unity, action, and deeper prayer.Learn more and get involved: https://www.movementwestmi.org/onecommunityweekend#ProvidenceThreads #OneCommunityWeekend #MovementWestMichigan #KoryPlockmeyer #ChurchUnity #WestMichiganChurches #Prayer #Worship #CommunityService

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” – John 8:36In this final episode of our Freedom in Christ series, Pastor Toby Gruppen wraps up with four powerful and practical principles to help you walk in the true freedom Jesus offers.We all face thoughts, habits, and patterns that try to hold us back—but God’s truth sets us free. From renewing your mind to forgiving deeply, surrendering hidden struggles, and breaking generational chains through prayer, this episode offers a roadmap toward a life of spiritual freedom.This isn’t theory—it’s real, everyday freedom you can live out. Don’t miss this encouraging and honest conversation!#FreedomInChrist #ProvidenceThreads #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualGrowth

Dean Vander Mey – Executive Director of Set Free MinistriesIn this powerful two-part conversation, we explore with Dean Vander Mey the spiritual roots of modern-day slavery, the invisible battles we face daily, and how the Gospel has the power to bring true freedom. From powerful stories to biblical principles for inner healing, these episodes are an invitation to open your eyes, heart, and spirit.Part 1 (Episode 9):Dean shares about the urgent need to confront oppression from a Christ-centered perspective.Part 2 (Episode 10):We dive into real-life stories of transformation, the importance of spiritual warfare, and how the Church can be an agent of liberation in today’s culture.Don’t miss this series that weaves together freedom, faith, and purpose.Learn more about Set Free Ministries: ⁠www.setfreeministries.com

Dean Vander Mey – Executive Director of Set Free MinistriesIn this powerful two-part conversation, we explore with Dean Vander Mey the spiritual roots of modern-day slavery, the invisible battles we face daily, and how the Gospel has the power to bring true freedom. From powerful stories to biblical principles for inner healing, these episodes are an invitation to open your eyes, heart, and spirit.Part 1 (Episode 9):Dean shares about the urgent need to confront oppression from a Christ-centered perspective.Part 2 (Episode 10):We dive into real-life stories of transformation, the importance of spiritual warfare, and how the Church can be an agent of liberation in today’s culture.Don’t miss this series that weaves together freedom, faith, and purpose.Learn more about Set Free Ministries: www.setfreeministries.com

In this special episode of Providence Threads, we dive into the powerful and heartwarming experiences from our winter youth camp.Youth Pastor Krista Strom joins us along with students Allison and José, who share their honest, joyful, and moving reflections on how God met them during those unforgettable days.From powerful worship moments to snowball fights and late-night conversations, this episode will remind you of how deeply God works in the hearts of young people.Don’t miss their testimonies, laughter, and insight—you’ll be inspired and encouraged!

In this episode of Providence Threads, we talk with Krista Mason, director of Benjamin’s Hope, a community dedicated to empowering and supporting individuals with disabilities.Krista shares the inspiring story of how Benjamin’s Hope was founded and has grown into a place where people with disabilities find home, purpose, and community. We explore the importance of a holistic approach to care and how faith and providence have guided this ministry.In this episode, you’ll discover:The impact of Benjamin’s Hope on the lives of its residents.How inclusion and faith transform lives.Stories of hope and community in action.

During this Lenten season, as we remember Jesus’ sacrifice, we take time to reflect on what it truly means to follow Him. In this episode, Pr. George DeJong challenges us to consider the cost of discipleship.Are we willing to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Christ without reservation? We explore Jesus' radical call and what it means to live as true disciples in a world that constantly tempts us with superficial commitments.What does it mean to be a disciple rather than just a believer?The role of sacrifice, surrender, and obedience in following Christ.The cost of following Jesus and the glory of the eternal reward.

In this episode of Providence Threads, we have the honor of speaking with Lois Tverberg, a writer and speaker who has spent over 25 years exploring the Jewish background of Christianity.We dive into the deep meaning of Lent:What is Lent, and what is its purpose?How can we find meaning and transformation during this season?What connections exist between the practice of Lent and Jewish teachings?Get ready for a rich conversation that will help you experience Lent with new understanding and purpose.📌 To learn more about Lois Tverberg, visit 👉 www.ourrabbijesus.comDon’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts!Listen on Spotify, YouTube, and all podcast platforms.#ProvidenceThreads #Lent #LoisTverberg #JewishRoots #Faith #Christianity #Spirituality

True Stewardship: Investing in God's Kingdom | Providence ThreadsWhat does stewardship really mean? Is it just about managing money, or is it something much deeper? In this episode of Providence Threads, we talk with Rob Olinzok about the true meaning of stewardship and how we can invest our lives, talents, and resources in God's Kingdom.Discover how a biblical perspective on stewardship leads us to live with purpose, generosity, and trust in God's provision. 🙌💡

In this episode, we are joined by Professor Alberto La Rosa, Director of the Hispanic Ministries Program at Western Theological Seminary, to discuss a crucial topic: Migration and the Church.What does the Bible say about migration?How should the Church respond to this challenge?How can we reflect God’s love and justice in our communities?Join us for a deep and relevant conversation on the Church’s calling to welcome, accompany, and respond with compassion in a constantly changing world.

Anxiety and Stress in Young People: A Conversation with Teacher Benson ProstIn this episode of Providence Threads, we sit down with teacher Benson Prost to discuss a topic that affects thousands of young people today: anxiety and stress in school. From academic pressure to the impact of social media and uncertainty about the future, we explore how these factors are affecting students' mental health and what strategies can help them navigate these challenges.- How can young people manage daily stress?- What role do parents, teachers, and the community play in this process?- How can faith and a healthy mindset make a difference?

In this first episode of Providence Threads, Pr. Toby Gruppen sits down with Pr. George DeJong for a deep and insightful conversation on preaching through the different ages and stages of life.How does the message of the Gospel resonate across generations? Join us in this immersion of wisdom, experience and passion for effectively sharing God's Word to all generations at different stages of life.

Welcome to Providence Threads! In this introductory episode, we share the heart behind this podcast—where faith, transformation, and community come together in powerful ways. Through inspiring stories and deep conversations, we explore how God's providence weaves through our lives, shaping us and those around us.Join us as we embark on this journey of faith, purpose, and connection. Subscribe now and be part of the Providence Threads community!🎧 Follow & Subscribe📌 Available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts#ProvidenceThreads #FaithStories #Transformation #ChristianPodcast #Community