Smell Like Jesus

This episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast explores the profound topic of forgiveness from a biblical and practical perspective. It covers the nature of divine and human forgiveness, reconciliation, and how to navigate forgiveness in difficult situations, including church trauma.#forgiveness #reconciliation #Christianliving #churchtrauma, #divineforgiveness #humanforgiveness #grace #gospel #spiritualjourney #church #jesus #christian Key topics:The biblical understanding of forgiveness and reconciliationThe difference between divine and human forgivenessThe role of repentance in reconciliationForgiveness in the context of church trauma and hurtThe ongoing journey of forgiveness and grace Sound bites:"Forgiveness is releasing someone from obligation or debt.""Forgiveness is a winding journey, not a single transaction.""We are called to forgive as the Lord forgives us."Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Forgiveness01:28 Defining Forgiveness05:19 Reconciliation vs. Forgiveness08:20 Cultural Perspectives on Forgiveness11:35 The Journey of Forgiveness20:34 Forgiveness in the Church Context23:24 The Battle of Forgiveness30:26 The Journey of Healing and Grief40:05 Reflections on Ministry and Imperfection Resources:The Working Definition Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/working-definition/id154123456Tim Keller on Forgiveness - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/forgiveness-tim-keller/Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund - https://www.amazon.com/Gentle-Lowly-Rediscovering-Christ-Compassion/dp/1433553196Facing the Mountain by Daniel Brown - https://www.amazon.com/Facing-Mountain-Japanese-American-Internment/dp/0525559734Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - https://www.amazon.com/Les-Miserables-Victor-Hugo/dp/045141943XMake Your Home in This Luminous Dark by James K. Smith - https://www.amazon.com/Make-Your-Home-Luminous-Dark/dp/1496447474

On this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, the crew explores how Christians can hold on to hope amid political upheaval, war, and societal disillusionment. The conversation covers the importance of slowing down, engaging with creation, and finding peace in God's sovereignty, especially through Scripture and prayer. keywordsChristian hope, societal upheaval, spiritual disciplines, creation, Psalm 46, space and God, literature, art, prayer, peace in Christ key topicsHolding onto hope amidst societal upheavalThe spiritual discipline of slowing down and paying attentionCreation as a testimony to God's gloryThe role of literature and art in revealing truthFinding peace through Scripture and prayerChapters00:00 Introduction: Hope in Society's Turmoil01:58 The Numbness and Distraction of Modern Politics06:47 The Christian Call to Be Informed and Hopeful10:23 Psalm 46: God's Sovereign Power in Chaos15:06 Space as a Reflection of God's Glory and Love20:50 The Importance of Slowing Down and Paying Attention26:45 Literature, Art, and the Reflection of God's Truth32:46 Redemptive Literature and the Search for Meaning37:19 Conclusion: Trusting in God's Peace and Sovereignty resourcesPsalm 46 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+46&version=ESVLeo Tolstoy's Confession - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Leo+Tolstoy+ConfessionGustave Flaubert's Madame Bovary - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Madame+Bovary

Navigating Faith and AI: Church, Culture, and Discipleship in a Digital AgeDiscover how Christians are engaging with artificial intelligence—its potential benefits, pastoral challenges, and theological reflections. This episode explores how faith communities can respond wisely and faithfully to rapid technological change.Jonathan Shradar hosts Ben Brophy, Jon Rees, and Matt Pilgrim. - Introduction: Faith in the Age of AI - The Ubiquity of AI in Church Life and Personal Devotion- Ethical Use and Misuse of AI in Ministry and Teaching - Critiquing AI as a Tool for Sermon and Content Creation - Concerns about AI for Emotional and Relational Replacement- Pastoral Risks: Plagiarism, Superficial Connection, and Identity- The Value of Embodied Discipleship and Personal Presence- The Impact of AI on Youth Relationships and Cyber Grieving- Pastoring Those Engaging Deeply with AI & Recommendations for Church Outreach - Cultivating Community and Trust in Face-to-Face Encounters - Personal Devotion in the Age of AI: Slowing Down and Wrestling with God - AI as a Modern Divination and the Illusion of Knowing - The Limitations of AI: Predicting the Next Word vs. True Knowing- The Threat of Losing Souls vs. Faithful Engagement with Scripture- How Churches Can Prepare for Economic and Employment Shifts - The Role of Trades and Practical Work in a Tech-Driven World - Facing Change: God's Unchanging Faithfulness as Our Anchor - Reflections on Fear, Confidence, and Trust in God's Sovereignty - Fighting FOBO: Contentment, Work, and the Hope of Eternal Life- Final Reflections: Living Faithfully Amidst AI's Rise- Bookshelf: The Clay Pot Conspiracy and others - Exploring the Inner Life and Wilderness with The Solace of Fierce Landscapes - Becoming New: The Power of Grace and Contentment in Our Daily Lives / A Word of Encouragement from Philippians 4:8-13Resources & Links:The Clay Pot Conspiracy by Dave HarveyAnna Karenina by Leo TolstoyThe Solace of Fierce Landscapes by Belden LaneBible Project on PhilippiansBiola article on Preparing for AI

On this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, our conversation explores the concept of Christian masculinity through the perspectives of three good friends in different contexts and seasons of life. They discuss the definitions of masculinity, the influence of cultural voices, the importance of vulnerability in fatherhood, and the role of community in discipleship. The dialogue emphasizes the need for men to model Christ-like behavior and to engage with the next generation in meaningful ways, encouraging them to pursue a deeper relationship with God.TakeawaysChristian masculinity is defined by humility, courage, and restraint.Influencers shape young men's perceptions of masculinity.Vulnerability is essential in fatherhood and modeling behavior.Community plays a crucial role in discipleship and mentoring.Cultural voices often conflict with biblical teachings on masculinity.Personal experiences shape our understanding of manhood.The church can provide a constructive vision of masculinity.Engaging with young men requires addressing their cultural influences.Spiritual formation can happen in everyday life, not just in church settings.The journey of maturity is ongoing for all men. Sound Bites"The world needs magnanimous men.""We must be clear as believers.""Watch how your mom and I interact."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Christian Masculinity02:53 Defining Christian Masculinity05:56 The Role of Influencers in Shaping Masculinity08:49 Personal Experiences and Models of Masculinity11:38 Vulnerability and Transparency in Fatherhood14:40 The Importance of Community in Discipleship17:18 Navigating Cultural Voices and Expectations20:26 The Challenge of Presenting Christ to Young Men23:26 The Inner Life and Spiritual Formation26:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this bonus episode, we hear from Brett McCracken, Senior Editor and Director of Communications for The Gospel Coalition, as he discusses the various forms of 'death' associated with excessive smartphone use and scrolling, including physical, emotional, and cognitive deaths. He introduces the concept of 'brain rot,' a term used to describe the deterioration of mental faculties due to overconsumption of trivial online content. McCracken emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the dangers of cognitive atrophy exacerbated by technology and AI. He also offers practical solutions for churches and communities to combat these issues, such as creating phone-free spaces and fostering a culture of reading. This talk was given at a TGCSD regional chapter event on August 20, 2025. TakeawaysScrolling habits lead to various forms of death.Teen suicide rates correlate with smartphone use.Brain rot reflects a decline in cognitive abilities.Excessive screen time contributes to emotional distress.Critical thinking skills are diminishing in the digital age.Daydreaming is essential for mental health.AI may worsen cognitive decline by outsourcing thinking.Churches should address the issue of brain rot.Creating phone-free spaces can help combat distractions.Cultivating a reading culture can enhance critical thinking.Sound Bites"We're scrolling ourselves to death.""Brain rot is a fascinating term.""Normalize phone-free spaces in churches."

In this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, Jonathan Shradar and Geoff Hsu delve into the complex relationship between shame and faith. They explore how shame can hinder personal transformation and the importance of vulnerability in the Christian journey. Drawing insights from Curt Thompson's book, 'The Soul of Shame', they discuss the psychological and theological implications of shame, emphasizing the need for healthy community connections and the integration of psychology with theology to foster genuine discipleship and healing.Keywordsshame, faith, transformation, vulnerability, gospel, psychology, theology, community, healing, discipleshipTakeawaysShame can hinder our transformation in faith.Vulnerability is essential for authentic community.Understanding shame requires both psychological and theological insights.Jesus experienced shame, which connects Him to our struggles.Healthy community can mitigate feelings of shame.Spiritual practices alone may not lead to transformation without addressing shame.Shame is a bodily response, not just an emotional one.Creating safe environments is crucial for healing.The church must integrate emotional maturity into discipleship.Transformation is possible through understanding and addressing shame.TitlesShame and Faith: A Deep DiveThe Journey of Understanding ShameSound bites"Jesus took on our shame.""Shame is more than just a feeling.""Shame has a grip on our lives."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Shame and Flourishing03:36 The Journey of Understanding Shame06:42 The Role of Spiritual Formation09:52 Defining Shame and Its Impact12:27 Theological Insights on Shame15:38 The Church's Role in Addressing Shame18:38 Integrating Psychology and Theology21:37 Practical Steps for Transformation24:44 Creating Safe Community Environments27:43 Jesus and the Experience of Shame30:36 The Future of Confessional Communities39:41 Smell Like Jesus | Shame — Take 0240:47 Understanding Shame in Faith41:16 The Impact of Shame on Transformation41:29 Understanding Shame and Vulnerability41:58 The Role of Identity in Christ

In this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, Jonathan Shradar and Ben Brophy discuss the complex Israel-Iran conflict, exploring how Christians can engage with the situation thoughtfully and prayerfully. They delve into the theological implications of the conflict, the role of the modern state of Israel compared to biblical Israel, and the importance of prayer for those affected by the violence. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion, understanding, and reliance on God amidst the chaos.TakeawaysThe Israel-Iran conflict is complex and multifaceted.Christians should approach the conflict with compassion and understanding.The modern state of Israel differs from biblical Israel.Prayer should focus on protecting the vulnerable and seeking justice.Ephesians 2 highlights the unity of all believers in Christ.The role of dispensationalism in understanding the conflict is significant.Non-combatants are often the most affected by the violence.Scripture does not mandate support for one side over the other.Hope lies in the return of Jesus Christ and ultimate justice.God can bring good out of evil situations.Sound Bites"Christ tears down the dividing wall of hostility.""We do not know what's best but you do.""Somehow turn all of this evil into good."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Israel-Iran Conflict02:12 Understanding the Complexity of the Conflict05:15 The Role of Christians in Supporting Israel09:22 Navigating Religious Contexts in the Conflict11:40 Prayer and Spiritual Guidance for the Situation14:43 Closing Thoughts and PrayerKeywordsIsrael, Iran, conflict, Christianity, prayer, Middle East, justice, Ephesians, dispensationalism, Gaza

We have been away for a while, but are soon coming back with more episodes! In this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, Jonathan shares personal reflections on life, faith, and the fragility of existence following a traumatic experience with his daughter's health. He emphasizes the importance of being present in each moment, recognizing the thin lines between devastation and normality, and the purpose of life in seeking God. The conversation also touches on upcoming topics for the podcast, including shame, mercy, justice, and community engagement.Keywords: life updates, fragility, purpose, community, faith, Jesus, reflections, family, spirituality, podcastTakeawaysLife is fragile and can change in an instant.We must cherish each moment and be present.The purpose of life is to seek God and find Him.Our experiences shape our understanding of faith.Community and relationships are vital in our spiritual journey.Living with intention allows us to reflect Christ's love.The podcast will explore various important topics.We should help others find their way to Christ.Each breath we take has a purpose.Life's challenges can lead to deeper faith and understanding.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Life Updates05:05 The Purpose of Our Lives

Can we use our creative gifts for the glory of God? Should our talents, or even our attempts be instruments to draw us and others closer to Jesus? On this first episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast we endeavor to find out. Jonathan interviews poet Matt Pilgrim to hear how he has used prose for devotion and perhaps you will be encouraged to dust off the passions God has given you! Find Matt's poetry online at https://fillfourjars.wordpress.com and on Instagram @matthewtpilgrim For security reasons this episode is audio only.

Welcome to the Smell Like Jesus podcast from Reservoir Church. Season 1 is coming soon. We are tackling questions of creativity, mercy and justice, disability and the church, shame, and more. Subscribe and follow along.