Resident Strangers

To kick off this week’s conversation, Sarah asks returning guest Trevor Schalow what first sparked his interest in studying topics like the Nephilim. Trevor shares how experiences his older brother had growing up in Show Low, Arizona revealed to him that many Christians don’t know how to process paranormal or supernatural experiences. Because these topics can feel unsettling or strange, believers often avoid engaging with them altogether or overlook the supernatural depth woven throughout Scripture.As the conversation continues, Steve reflects on his experience as a pastor and how hesitant many people are to wrestle with certain spiritual realities, even those found in the Gospel accounts. Trevor revisits last week’s discussion on the Nephilim and points to additional biblical passages worth exploring, including the historical Jewish belief that the spirits of the Nephilim became what we know as demons in Jesus’ day. The group also discusses the Joshua Campaign in the Old Testament and whether certain events may point to deeper connections to the demonic realm.Throughout the episode, Trevor argues that if something in Scripture seems weird, it’s probably important. Steve emphasizes the importance of keeping our eyes fixed on Christ while exploring difficult topics, a perspective Sarah and Trevor wholeheartedly agree with. The conversation closes by discussing how spiritual oppression often carries a deviant or sexual component. There’s a lot packed into this 30-minute episode, so you may want to listen twice!Angels Elect & Evil by C. Fred DickasonThe Bondage Breaker by Neil T. AndersonMichael Heiser's YouTube Channel Interested in the classes Trevor teaches at Desert Springs? Send him an email at [email protected] Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Special guest Trevor Schalow joins Steve and Sarah for a conversation you won’t want to miss as they dive into the mysterious topic of the Nephilim. This is a subject that’s been gaining a lot of traction in today’s culture. While the discussion is fascinating, Steve makes it clear from the start: this isn’t a “line in the sand” theological issue. Faithful believers have landed in different places on this, and the goal is to explore, not divide.Before jumping in, Trevor shares his heart behind studying topics like this. Rather than being a distraction, the “stranger” passages in Scripture have actually deepened his passion for the Bible and strengthened his desire to know God more fully.Steve then lays the foundation by defining key terms from Genesis, “sons of God,” “daughters of men,” used to describe The Nephilim. These figures described before the flood are often associated with great size or strength. This raises a compelling question: could the Nephilim have been part of the reason for the flood?From there, the conversation clearly walks through three primary viewpoints:1. The Sethite View (Most Common)The “sons of God” are the godly line of Seth, and the “daughters of men” are the ungodly line of Cain or corrupt humanity. The Nephilim are human offspring from these unions, with no supernatural element.2. The Divine Ruler View The “sons of God” are powerful Kings or human rulers who abused their authority and took multiple wives. Like the Sethite view, this perspective remains naturalistic.3. The Supernatural View The “sons of God” are angelic beings who left their domain and had relations with human women, producing offspring described as giants. Steve and Trevor both lean toward this view, pointing to Genesis, New Testament passages, and ancient accounts, highlighting a more active spiritual realm.As the conversation unfolds, Trevor highlights how easy it is for modern readers to underestimate the role of the supernatural in Scripture, not just in this story, but throughout the Bible and even in how we understand the world today.There’s far more in this episode than can be captured here, so be sure to listen in, take notes, and come back next week ready to keep exploring the conversation around the Nephilim.Resources Trevor recommends:The Unseen Realm by Michael S. HeiserMichael Heiser's YouTube ChannelWatch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Was the apostle Paul the first to deal with something like cancel culture? The idea of “canceling” people has exploded, especially online over the last decade but it’s not entirely new. As Steve, Rich, and Sarah talk it through, Steve points to Paul addressing public correction, particularly when it comes to elders. But even that looked very different back then as the “public” was much smaller and more local. Today, things can spiral far beyond the local church, especially when well-known pastors or leaders are called out on a large scale.Steve notes that applying biblical instruction to today’s culture, especially in this area, isn’t always straightforward. Rich highlights a consistent thread in Scripture: redemption, reconciliation, and restoration. Steve adds that repentance has to be part of that conversation too. Failure shouldn’t shock us but there is a Christlike way to respond to it.Passages like Matthew 18 are key when thinking about this, and Steve also points to Proverbs 26:17, which offers a strong warning about getting involved in conflict that isn’t ours to carry. It’s a needed reminder in a culture that’s quick to weigh in on everything. Sarah brings up a real tension: what do we do when leaders fall and then return to influence, sometimes without clear consequences? Rich and Steve help draw a distinction between redemption and reinstatement. They’re not always the same, and that’s where things can get complicated.At the end of the day, these are messy situations. That’s why it’s so important to stay grounded in Scripture, surrounded by wise community, and led by God—not driven by the court of public opinion. The role of the local church really matters here.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Some things in Scripture are clear and non-negotiable. Others aren’t directly addressed and can feel more open-ended. Have you ever had a friend feel strongly about an issue that didn’t seem like a big deal to you, especially in your faith?The Bible gives clear direction on many things, but some areas can be harder to sort through. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, we’re reminded: “whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it for the glory of God.” Tension often comes when a personal conviction, something between someone and the Lord. gets applied to everyone else. As Steve puts it, many of these aren’t sin issues as much as they are wisdom issues, shaped by individual personalities and experiences.It’s important to remember that we’re each responsible for our own walk with the Lord. Sarah raises a thoughtful question: what about things mentioned in Scripture that may not apply in the same way today? Rich points us back to the heart of it all, following Jesus and being transformed daily, rather than just trying to check boxes. Steve echoes that, encouraging us to keep drawing closer to God.Ultimately, these conversations should lead us to seek God’s wisdom more deeply. The group touches on topics like alcohol, parenting, homeschooling, and even hair length and ask an important question: as we grow in wisdom, could our perspectives change?We hope this conversation encouraged you, and we’re looking forward to next week!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

This week, we continue the conversation from our previous episode on Sodom and Gomorrah. Rich opens with a powerful reminder from 1 Corinthians: “Bad company corrupts good character.” The truth is, what we surround ourselves with shapes us, often more than we realize. That reality is clearly seen in the story of Sodom and Gomorrah and becomes a key theme in today's discussion.From there, we explore what it looks like to thoughtfully and faithfully engage with the world, even in its most broken places. Sarah reflects on something her high school teacher used to say: “There’s nothing new under the sun.” It’s a reminder that while sin may look different across generations, the brokenness of the world isn’t new. Scripture shows us that humanity has always wrestled with the same deep issues.So how should Christians live in a fallen world? That’s the heart behind this podcast, to wrestle with that question together. Steve emphasizes that it starts with our own walk with Christ. Before looking outward, we must first examine our own hearts. But that doesn’t mean withdrawing from the world. Instead, we’re called to engage it intentionally and purposefully. As Jesus says in Matthew 10, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore, be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list Questions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Are there stories in the Bible that feel strange, unsettling, or even a little uncomfortable?This week, Steve, Rich, and Sarah dive into one of the most infamous accounts in the Old Testament: Sodom and Gomorrah. Sarah jokingly notes that this story didn’t quite make it into her son’s storybook Bible and for those familiar with it, that probably comes as no surprise.Rich walks through the narrative, carefully outlining the events found in Genesis 18–19, while Steve adds helpful historical and cultural context along the way. One key insight Rich highlights is that God was not only addressing the wickedness of these cities, but also using these events to teach Abraham something significant about His character and justice.Steve also points out that Jesus later references Sodom and Gomorrah during His ministry in the Gospels, showing that this wasn’t just an isolated moment in history but that it carried lasting meaning. Together, they explain how the practices in these cities reflected deeply pagan and destructive patterns of sin that had reached a breaking point.This episode offers a thoughtful overview of why God responded the way He did and how these events fit into the broader biblical story. Steve closes with a word of encouragement, helping connect this difficult passage to our lives today.And next week, the conversation continues as the team explores how Christians should understand and respond to events like this in today’s current world.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

What would it take to convince your own siblings that you are God?Robby Lashua is back in the studio with Sarah and Steve for a special Easter episode. With his background in apologetics, Robby brings a compelling and thoughtful perspective on the resurrection. From the empty tomb and the transformed lives of the disciples to the historical reality of the crucifixion and Paul’s dramatic conversion, the evidence points powerfully to the risen Christ.But one often-overlooked piece of the story is the conversion of Jesus’ own brothers. During His ministry, they didn’t believe in Him as Savior. They weren’t part of His following, despite witnessing His miracles and hearing His teaching. They weren’t even present at His death. In fact, Scripture suggests there was a strong dislike for their brother. So, what changed? How did they go from disbelief to devotion after the resurrection? James, Jesus’ brother, would eventually become a leader in the early church and even give his life for his faith.Robby leads a rich conversation around this remarkable transformation, offering practical apologetics and fresh insight into the resurrection. Steve adds additional context that highlights why the resurrection remains central to the Christian faith. We hope this episode encourages you and prepares your heart as you celebrate Easter this weekend!Go back to Episodes 90-99 for daily Passion Week devotionals from the Resident Strangers teamCelebrate Easter at Desert Springs in GoodyearCelebrate Easter at Palmcroft Church in North Phoenix (where Robby pastors)For links to the books Robby recommends in the episode email [email protected] 📖Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

This week, the conversation around missions continues as Steve, Rich, and Sarah take a deeper look at what mission work really looks like and what it truly requires. Sarah opens up about a decision she faced early in her college years, wrestling with whether she was called to commit to full-time missions. Steve reflects on how, in the past, becoming a missionary meant a complete surrender of your life, and how remarkable it is that so many made that decision at such a young age. Rich adds that today’s ease of travel has dramatically expanded opportunities for mission work around the world.Together, they unpack the idea that missions is a both/and calling. It is not just meeting physical needs, but, even more importantly, addressing spiritual ones. While full-time mission work still carries a real weight and sacrifice, it doesn’t mean the everyday follower of Christ isn’t called to share the gospel. No matter the setting, intentionality is key.Interested in Missions at Desert Springs? Email our Missions Pastor Jamie Engram at [email protected] Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list Questions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

The Resident Strangers crew is back from spring break and excited to jump back into conversations on topics that matter today! Over the next two weeks, Steve, Rich, and Sarah will be talking about missions.Rich kicks things off with an important question: Why should followers of Christ engage in mission work at all? The answer becomes clear when we look at the Great Commission: Jesus’ final instruction to His followers to go into the world and make disciples.Steve quickly points out that missions isn’t limited to being “somewhere overseas.” Every follower of Christ is called to live on mission right where they are. When we think of missions only as something that happens “over there,” we can easily miss the calling God has placed right in front of us. Missions isn’t simply a trip we take, it’s a way of life.Serving others with a genuine heart is one of the most powerful ways to minister to people. In the conversation, Steve also addresses some of the questions and controversies that can surround intentional mission work.We hope this discussion offers a fresh perspective and encourages you to live on mission today!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Steve is back this week as the Resident Strangers crew wraps up their final conversation on Mormonism (for now 😉). They take time to respond to listener questions like: Why not host a debate with a practicing Mormon? And why can’t people just choose whatever they want to believe?You’ll also hear Steve share his reflections on the series and offer practical ways believers can take what they’ve learned and live it out in everyday life.We hope this mini-series has been both insightful and encouraging as you think about how to engage with Mormons in your own life. And let us know — what worldview should we explore next?Resources on Mormonism Robby recommends:Mormonism Research MinistryMormonism 101 by Bill McKeever & Eric JohnsonSharing the Good News with Mormons by Eric Johnson & Sean McDowellTri Grace MinistriesWitness to Mormons in Love by Daniel G. ThompsonCheck out all 195 episodes of Christ, Culture & Coffee wherever you listen to podcasts*Episodes 3, 30, 32, 42, 58 & 139 cover topics related to MormonismWatch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

You don’t have to travel across the world to encounter worldviews that challenge Christianity. You can find them right in your own community.Sarah and Rich sit down again with special guest Robby Lashua, and he kicks things off by sharing why he’s so passionate about apologetics today. As a young boy, Robby wrestled deeply with questions about faith, and one truth shaped his journey: if God is real, He’s big enough to be examined and questioned.This week, Robby helps unpack what Mormons believe about God and Jesus and why those beliefs are fundamentally different from historic Christianity. He explains how Mormonism teaches a polytheistic view, including the idea that Jesus was not always God but became God, and that humans can one day become gods themselves through obedience and effort. He also breaks down the Mormon view of salvation, which includes multiple levels of heaven based on personal merit, as well as their understanding of hell, family relationships in eternity, and why these beliefs can make it especially difficult for someone to leave the Mormon faith.Robby also briefly touches on the history of polygamy and how Mormon theology is ultimately male centric.At the heart of it all is a simple reminder: it’s so important to know what you believe and why, so you can engage thoughtfully and lovingly with people who see the world differently. And the good news? You don’t need multiple degrees to do that.Resources on Mormonism Robby recommends:Mormonism Research MinistryMormonism 101 by Bill McKeever & Eric JohnsonSharing the Good News with Mormons by Eric Johnson & Sean McDowellTri Grace MinistriesWitness to Mormons in Love by Daniel G. ThompsonCheck out all 195 episodes of Christ, Culture & Coffee wherever you listen to podcasts*Episodes 3, 30, 32, 42, 58 & 139 cover topics related to MormonismSign up for the Resident Strangers email listEmail [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Are Christians and Mormons essentially the same? Robby Lashua joins Sarah and Rich for a focused and insightful conversation on Mormonism. Robby, a longtime friend with a background in apologetics and the Lead Pastor of Palmcroft Church in Phoenix, brings years of knowledge and firsthand experience from living in a region where interactions with Mormons are common.As Mormonism becomes more visible in culture through media, politics, and social platforms it can seem like Mormons and Christians believe the same things, especially since similar language is often used. But as Robby explains, while there may be moral similarities, the theological differences are extremely significant.The conversation explores the origins of Mormonism, including Joseph Smith’s claimed vision in the 1800s, the role of the Book of Mormon, and why many followers are unfamiliar with what their own writings teach. This episode is packed with tons of important information, so be sure to listen and come back next week as the deep dive continues!Check out all 195 episodes of Christ, Culture & Coffee wherever you listen to podcasts — Episodes 3, 30, 32, 42, 58 & 139 cover topics related to MormonismPalmcroft ChurchWatch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥 Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Last week, Steve and Rich clarified which parts of Scripture are considered doctrine. This week, they explore what it looks like when a follower of Christ feels convicted to observe Old Hebrew practices. Steve introduces this as the Hebrew Roots Movement, which teaches that modern Christianity has drifted from Jesus’ original teachings and that the Torah should be restored to prominence. This can include rejecting Christian holidays, observing ceremonial laws, and using original Hebrew names for God.They note that many drawn to this movement are seeking deeper meaning or “greater knowledge,” especially in response to areas where Christianity can feel superficial. While not everyone involved is part of a cult, Steve and Rich explain that the movement can create a pathway toward legalism, pride, and spiritual elitism. They also clarify that the Hebrew Roots Movement is distinct from Messianic Judaism and Black Hebrew Israelite beliefs.The discussion highlights 1 John 3 as a key passage often used to support these views, particularly the phrase “lawlessness is sin,” which some interpret as a call to follow Old Testament law. Steve and Rich point out how this and other scriptures can be taken out of context, leading to misunderstandings about salvation in Christ. They close by offering practical wisdom for having loving, thoughtful conversations with someone who may be heading in this direction.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Many Christians don’t have a parapet on their roof does that mean they aren’t following God’s leading for daily life? Questions like this highlight a larger conversation about how Scripture should be interpreted. One way this tension shows up is in how some people latch onto specific teachings, particularly from the Old Testament, and apply them directly to modern life. In this conversation, Rich and Steve explore how to discern what should be considered binding doctrine within Scripture. Steve begins by affirming that the Bible is fully God’s Word; while also clarifying that not everything recorded in Scripture is intended to be a direct instruction for everyday life. For example, biblical stories and narratives are deeply meaningful and instructive, but they are not always meant to function as rules to be followed.Rich cautions against cherry-picking certain passages or practices simply because they appear in Scripture. Instead, believers must wrestle with an important question: how do we distinguish what was written for a specific time and place from what is meant for today? Understanding context is absolutely essential.The Old Testament remains relevant and valuable, but applying it wisely requires careful attention to its historical, cultural, and theological context. Next week, we’ll dig even deeper into these questions as we discuss the Hebrew Roots Movement. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss it!Check out two previous episodes on how to study the Bible — Resident Strangers Episodes 51 + 52 (audio only)Halley's Bible HandbookWatch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

This week’s episode continues last week’s conversation by asking how a God who shows wrath can also show such deep grace between the Old and New Testament. Steve challenges the idea that the Old and New Testaments present different versions of God, noting that both wrath and grace are found in each. One key difference is focus. The New Testament centers on individuals and how they are called to live like Christ, while the Old Testament often addresses nations as a whole. Comparing the two isn’t always fair, since God may call nations and individuals to very different things.Rich points out that God’s people once formed a literal nation, while today the Kingdom of God is made up of believers spread across the world. Steve adds important context to some of the larger Old Testament conquests that can be difficult to understand. As discussed last week, Jesus bridges the gap between the Old and New Testaments, continuing the same story rather than starting a new one. When Jesus says, “If you’ve seen me, you’ve seen the Father,” that includes the God of the Old Testament. Ultimately, the message remains the same: today is the day of salvation, and we still need God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

It’s Tuesday again, which means a new episode of Resident Strangers is here! This week is exciting as the crew begins digging into listener-submitted questions and suggestions. Over the next two episodes, we’re diving into a big one: Is the God of the Old Testament different from the God of the New Testament? Some see stark differences between the two, while others believe God has always been the same.Steve points out that this question isn’t new as it goes back centuries. Rich helps unpack the historical context, showing how these early debates emerged not long after Jesus walked the earth and even influenced how the Bible was formed and which writings were included. Much of the tension centers on the wrath we see throughout the Old Testament. Steve offers a thoughtful counterpoint, highlighting the abundance of grace found there as well and how the New Testament continues to reveal the same God. Jesus’ own teachings affirm this truth. After all, grace and mercy only make sense when justice exists too. This conversation offers a fresh and challenging perspective and it’s only part one! Be sure to come back next week as the discussion continues.Resident Strangers Episode 88 on DeconstructionWatch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list Questions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Happy New Year and welcome back to Resident Strangers!A new year naturally invites reflection and a longing for something new. Steve opens the conversation by emphasizing the importance of spiritual self-examination, reminding us how easy it is to let life simply happen to us rather than living with intention. He points to 1 Kings 19, where God asks Elijah, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” This is a question that can still challenge us today.Rich agrees, sharing how vital it is to be intentional as life unfolds. He even reflects on how, before recording this episode, he asked God to help clear away distractions as he steps into the new year. Together, they talk about the importance of recognizing changing seasons, being mindful of what God has already done and attentive to what He may be preparing to do next. Perhaps the focus shouldn’t be so much on the end goal, but on faithfully taking the steps along the way.This conversation is full of thoughtful insight as we begin a new year. Be sure to join us next week as we dive into the discussion of the God of the Old and New Testament.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Merry Christmas from Resident Strangers! This is our final episode of 2025, but don’t worry, Steve, Rich, and Sarah are already working on and planning great conversations for January and the start of 2026.The crew kicks things off with Christmas excitement (and, of course, a little friendly teasing of Rich, longtime listeners know why! 🎄). In the middle of the laughter, Steve offers some timely pastoral wisdom: don’t miss the season you’re in. It’s easy to get lost in nostalgia or jump ahead to future holidays and completely overlook what God is doing right now.Rich reflects on what it must have been like for God’s people waiting for the Messiah. expecting political upheaval yet receiving a baby in a manger. It’s a reminder that God still works in surprising ways, often in places we least expect. It’s an encouraging conversation to close out the year!Resident Strangers will be on break until January 6, 2026. In the meantime, catch up on any episodes you missed and don’t forget you can watch on YouTube! Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us again on January 6th as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

With Thanksgiving just days away, the Resident Strangers crew sat down to reflect on the themes of gratitude and thankfulness. After swapping their own Thanksgiving plans, the conversation shifted toward what it truly means to live with a thankful heart.Rich shared that growing and maturing in Christ is deeply tied to learning contentment, that gratitude is, in many ways, the opposite of selfishness. Sometimes all it takes is stepping back and gaining a fresh perspective to rekindle a spirit of thankfulness.Steve pointed to Psalm 50:23 and Psalm 100 as reminders that thanksgiving and worship go hand in hand. The New Testament echoes this as well when Paul famously calls believers to be thankful in all circumstances in Philippians. There’s something powerful about refusing to let our circumstances define our gratitude.Rich also admitted that the more he intentionally focuses on what he can be grateful for, the less miserable he becomes. Gratitude really does matter whether it’s for something as simple as a warm cup of coffee or as meaningful as the love of family. Every bit of thankfulness counts, touches God’s heart, and ultimately shapes our own.Happy Thanksgiving from the Resident Strangers team!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

What does it actually mean to grow as a Christian? In today’s episode, Steve, Rich, and Sarah dig into the idea of spiritual maturity. After a fun conversation comparing the TV shows they each grew up with they shift to what really matters: growing in Christ.Steve kicks things off in 1 Peter 2, where spiritual growth is pictured through the human life cycle. Just like a baby slowly learns to eat and move, even an adult who becomes a Christian starts out spiritually “new.” But the goal isn’t to stay there; growth is essential. Rich highlights this from 2 Peter 1, emphasizing the diligence and intentionality required, and then points to 1 Corinthians 13, another passage that uses growth imagery to describe maturing in our faith.Sarah brings in the importance of understanding how that growth actually happens, especially when life gets messy. Trials and challenges often become the very place where spiritual maturity is formed. Steve ties it all together by reminding us that one of the clearest signs of maturity is recognizing that life isn’t ultimately about us; it’s about Jesus. Rich also opens up about his own recent steps toward spiritual maturity, offering a real-life picture of what growing in Christ can look like day to day. We hope this conversation challenges and encourages you as we head into a new year!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Does the Bible actually teach the sinner’s prayer as the way to receive salvation? It’s Tuesday, which means a new episode of Resident Strangers is here!This week, Steve and Rich are revisiting a topic from earlier this summer during the predestination series and bringing some clarification to a big question: What does it truly mean to believe?They unpack what it means to genuinely place your faith in Jesus and what Scripture means when it talks about salvation, a word that can also mean deliverance. So what does salvation include? Is it simply forgiveness and the promise of heaven, or is there more to the life Jesus offers?Rich also explores the question of how we can know someone is saved, while Sarah brings in the role of spiritual fruit and how it shows up in a believer’s life. Ultimately, only God and the individual can truly know the heart but one thing is clear: trusting Jesus changes everything. There’s a lot in this episode so listen in and take notes if needed!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Steve is back in the studio with Rich and Sarah for another great conversation! This episode marks the third and final installment in our unofficial mini-series on prayer. Steve dives right in with one of the most beautiful prayers in Scripture which is Elijah’s prayer in 1 Kings 18. He reminds us that prayer doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s simply talking with God, expressing what’s already in your heart. When we do that, it transforms us more than anything else can.Rich brings another layer to the conversation by exploring what prayer is not. He unpacks the cultural idea of “manifesting” and how even some Christians have adopted the belief that our words can create worlds. But true prayer isn’t about shaping reality through ritual, it’s about engaging with the living God. Together, Steve and Rich challenge us to consider what it really means to take God at His word and trust Him completely. We hope you’ve enjoyed this three-part journey as we’ve explored what it means to commune deeply with God through prayer!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Happy Lies by Melissa DoughertySign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Larissa joins Sarah and Rich once again as they continue their conversation on prayer. Many believers would agree that some of the most powerful moments of prayer and closeness with God often come during seasons of difficulty. Scripture is full of prayers born out of hardship, many of them being expressions of lament.In this episode, Rich highlights Psalm 13 as a model of lament: it begins with a raw complaint, moves into a heartfelt petition, and concludes with a declaration of trust in who God is, even in the midst of pain. He reminds us that this is not only something believers can do, but something we should do. Bringing our grief, confusion, and sorrow honestly before God is both deeply biblical and deeply healing.Rich and Larissa open up about their own experiences of lament, past and present, and how God has met them in those moments. While lament is not a step we can skip on the path to healing, it is often one of the most transformative parts of the journey. This real and vulnerable conversation offers encouragement and practical insight for wherever you are in life and in your own prayer journey.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy by Mark VroegopLarissa Holland's testimony on The Stories Collective, Episode 82Aaron Holland's (Rich & Larissa's son!) testimony on The Stories Collective, Episode 138Questions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Sarah and Rich are joined by a very special guest — Larissa Holland! Larissa is Rich’s wife, and we’re so glad she could be part of this meaningful conversation.While Steve will be back soon, the crew wanted to begin a new series of discussions around prayer, starting with Jesus’ model of prayer from Matthew 6. In this passage, Jesus clearly answers the question, “How should we pray?”Together, they unpack what it means to be mindful of how we pray, especially when praying in front of others. Larissa shares candidly about how this can be a real struggle and how her prayer life has grown over the years. One major shift for her has been becoming more intentional, even asking God daily to reveal sin and draw her closer to Him. Sarah opens up about what prayer looks like in this current season of motherhood, and Rich reminds us that no matter what season we’re in, God always hears our prayers.The crew highlights three key takeaways from Jesus’ example:Begin with praise and adoration.Invite God into your present moment.Humbly ask for conviction before bringing your requests.This heartfelt conversation is full of encouragement, no matter where you are in your prayer journey.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Larissa Holland's testimony on The Stories Collective, Episode 82Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list Questions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Today on Resident Strangers, Steve, Rich, and Sarah tackle a topic that continues to stir deep discussion in the church—women in ministry.Right out of the gate, Steve clarifies that spiritual gifts are not tied to gender. In the same way, he says, the use of those gifts within the church should not be restricted by gender. Rich builds on that thought, reminding listeners that every follower of Christ is called into full-time ministry, a theme they’ve unpacked in previous episodes.Sarah, however, notes that this conversation remains necessary because culture still struggles with how to approach it. Steve then turns to Scripture, pointing to 1 Corinthians 14:34 and 1 Timothy 2:12, which two passages often cited in this debate. He poses the critical question: Are these verses addressing roles or offices? According to Steve, understanding that distinction makes all the difference.Meanwhile, Sarah presses into what it actually means for a woman to teach and how believers should respond when she does.This episode dives deep into a nuanced and often emotional conversation. So, as you listen, stay open, thoughtful, and ready to wrestle with the Word.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Learn how to read & study the Bible this fall with Rich Holland, starting October 19th Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

In today’s episode, Rich and Steve take a big picture look at different church leadership structures. Leadership within the church can vary widely from one congregation or denomination to another, and even individual churches often interpret these structures in unique ways.Most of what we understand about church leadership comes from the New Testament. In Acts, we see both the rapid spread of the church and the development of formal leadership offices, primarily elders (or bishops) serving as overseers, and deacons. Steve highlights the important distinction between an office and a role, noting that the word “pastor” actually appears only once in the New Testament. He and Rich unpack how “elder” and “pastor” are often used interchangeably and what that means for church leadership today. They also explore how every believer, whether in a leadership position or not, shares the same call to live faithfully. Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Learn how to read & study the Bible this fall with Rich Holland, starting October 19thSign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.

Resident Strangers is BACK! 🎉 And so is Sarah Schalow, from maternity leave. The whole crew is together again! After a full summer run of episodes, the team took a short breather, but you can now expect new episodes to drop regularly back into your feed.Today kicks off the first in a 3-part series on church polity. We start at the beginning: what exactly is a denomination? Rich explains it as a formal organizational structure that individual churches fit into. The episode also touches on some key historical moments that led to the wide variety of denominations we see today, most often arising from theological differences or questions of church polity and politics. From baptism to the autonomy of the local church, to the authority of Scripture, these topics have shaped major denominational “splits” throughout history. Steve also unpacks what it means for churches to be part of associations (like Desert Springs is) and what that entails.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥 Learn how to read & study the Bible this fall with Rich Holland, starting October 19thQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Does anyone really love change? It’s uncomfortable and often hard but necessary for growth. Churches especially can struggle with it. The world is always shifting, so how can the church stay anchored in truth while adapting to culture?Steve emphasizes that churches must stay mission-minded, and Rich puts it this way: if every Christian is a missionary, then every Christian should also be a student of culture. And when you study culture, you can’t miss change.The longer a church exists, the stronger the pull to turn inward but that must be resisted. Sometimes evaluation needs to be ruthless: What’s working? What’s not?The gospel, the Great Commission, and the truth never change but how we live them out often must. May this conversation challenge you to embrace change where needed and follow Jesus more fully!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Learn how to read & study the Bible this fall with Rich HollandSign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Just like people, churches go through life cycles and if you’re part of a church, you’re living in one right now. Steve shares a sobering statistic: in the U.S., 8,000–10,000 churches close every year. Drawing from his work as an executive on the board of Venture Church Network, he takes us behind the scenes to explore why churches close and how understanding a church’s life cycle can reveal its overall health.One key factor stands out above the rest: vision. A church with a clear, Christ-centered vision will thrive. But when vision drifts out of focus, things can quickly unravel. True vision isn’t about “preserving and protecting”, it’s about making disciples for Christ.Rich asks pointed, thought-provoking questions that shed light on why vision is the driving force in every church’s life cycle. This conversation might just change the way you think about vision and about the church you call home.Learn to read & study the Bible with Rich Holland this fallWatch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments?Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

It’s Tuesday, and that means another great conversation is ready for you! Today, Hailey, Steve, and Rich dive into the topic of churches and their philosophy of ministry, the driving force behind a church’s health and longevity. The church doesn’t belong to “us”; it belongs to Jesus. When that focus shifts, things can quickly go off track.They explore the many different approaches churches can take (there’s not always a clear right or wrong), but one thing is certain: a solid, Christ-centered focus is essential. Steve points out that too often, churches build their philosophy around comfort rather than mobilization and if comfort is the main goal, how can we truly live on mission?In this episode, you’ll hear different ministry models discussed, along with a strong encouragement to stay on mission no matter your approach. As you listen, take time to evaluate your own church environment; does it challenge you to grow and inspire you to live out the mission of Jesus?Episode 110 on OikosWatch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] If you’ve enjoyed today’s episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe and leave a review as it really helps us reach more people with this message. We’d also love it if you’d share the podcast with your friends, on social media, or anywhere you connect with others. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

It’s a new episode of Resident Strangers! Be honest — have you ever withheld the truth from someone because you didn’t think they could handle it? Or have you joked around with your friends but made one sarcastic comment that went too far? Maybe you’ve been caught up in gossiping. Whatever the case may be, we all have misused the power of our words. What we say has the power to affect people. God knows this, and He knows our sinful nature can corrupt that. Today we dive into a passage in Ephesians 4, which warns against degrading, unwholesome, inappropriate, untruthful speech. As Christians, we need to take stock of what we say, even to each other. What we say must be truth in love spoken at the appropriate time. Steve and Rich explain the power of the tongue and the importance of speaking truth in a loving manner. If this episode convicts you or challenges you like it does for us, ask God to grow you in those areas! Tune in for this powerful episode!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgO Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.

Welcome back to Resident Strangers! This episode covers how to read and interpret the Old Testament and the New Testament. We should read both parts of the Bible a bit differently since they have different purposes. The team explains these purposes and the nuances with how we should interpret and apply certain scripture to our lives. In the Sabbath episode (linked below), we mentioned the Old Covenant or the law, so we further discuss this. Do the Old Testament laws still apply to us as Christians today? If not, then what is the point of the Old Testament? We cover all of this, so be sure to listen to the full episode!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOOikos episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/33jDczwq0FMJzTBZtBJjxe?si=9fe9fd2ec91049ccInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Interested in Rich's course on studying the Bible? Go to [email protected] up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.

Welcome back to Resident Strangers! Today, we are expanding on a topic we’ve mentioned a lot on this podcast, and that is taking verses out of context. We dive into some of the most-used verses out of context and break them down to understand what they actually mean. As Steve says, context is king when it comes to understanding scripture. It’s important to study the context and original audience of bible passages so we aren’t misunderstanding God’s Word or applying something to our own life that isn’t necessarily meant for us. Stay tuned for next week’s episode that continues this conversation about how we should read and interpret the Old Testament compared to the New Testament.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOInterested in studying Greek with Rich?  Email [email protected]. Interested in Rich's course on studying the Bible? Go to [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.

Welcome back to Resident Strangers! This episode is all about living on mission! How do we obey the Great Commission? What does it mean to be a missionary? Living on mission means sharing the gospel and making disciples, which is living like Jesus. When we think of living on mission or being a missionary, we typically think of being a missionary overseas. These trips are important and effective, but we are also called to live on mission in our own communities. This can look like sharing the gospel with your neighbor or discipling a new believer. Both literal missionaries and people serving in their community are equally important to the Christian life. The team discusses the benefits of going on a short-term mission trip, as well as how to support missionaries or ministries that are already further advancing the gospel. They give realistic ways that we can live on mission right at home. What is your mission field right now, and how can you live like Jesus?Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Today’s episode of Resident Strangers is all about evangelism! Evangelism is the act of sharing the gospel with people who aren’t Christians. We as Christians are called to share Jesus through the way we live AND through verbally sharing the gospel. If we do one but not the other, it can be an ineffective witness and confuse non-believers. With whatever we do or say, we should always point back to Jesus. The team shares useful tips to have conversations about the gospel, like asking what they believe about God and an afterlife, and why they think that. Ask personal and intentional questions to get to know them and understand their beliefs. Then, based on their answers, you can shift the conversation to explaining what the gospel is. You can even share your testimony of what God did in your life. People may not initially be receptive to having a spiritual conversation, but the point is to plant seeds and get them thinking. You never know how God will use that conversation in that person’s life later. If you are timid about sharing the gospel – or just need a refresher – this episode is for you!Links Mentioned: Evangelism Explosion Share Jesus Without Fear Book by William FayWatch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

It’s a new episode of Resident Strangers! In case you missed last week, Sarah is officially on maternity leave and Hailey Keller is filling in while she’s away. Steve, Rich, and Hailey talk all about oikos – not the Greek yogurt, but the biblical word meaning family, community, the people you do life with. Most people come to faith through hearing the gospel from these personal relationships, not just an invitation to church. Because of this, it’s crucial that we are intentional about sharing the gospel with people in our day to day lives.  A role of the corporate church service is to empower and encourage the church body to go out and evangelize to their own communities. Christians shouldn’t solely depend on going to church with their nonbeliever friends, but to live like Jesus with their actions and words through intentionally sharing the gospel. We are ALL called to share the gospel. As you listen to this episode, ask yourself, “Who is one person in my life that is an unbeliever and needs to hear the gospel?” Then pray for opportunities to have those gospel conversations with them.Book Mentioned: 8 to 15, The World Is Smaller Than You ThinkWatch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world.

Welcome back to Resident Strangers!  In this week’s conversation, we welcome a new voice to the table—Hailey Keller—and say “see you later” to our amazing co-host Sarah as she begins maternity leave.This episode dives deep into a powerful topic: the Sabbath – how we should navigate and honor it in our own context. In Exodus, God commands us to remember the Sabbath day, the seventh day of the week, and keep it holy. He set an example for us by also resting on the seventh day of creation. However, as believers, people often question whether we are still bound by the Old Testament law. What kind of work should we stop doing on the sabbath, especially with technology begging for our attention? Is practicing the sabbath simply going to church on Sunday? What about rest – what does it look like and how do we do it correctly? The team uncovers how to grapple with these questions and suggests practical ways to practice keeping the sabbath and resting with intention. As you begin to implement the sabbath and rest in your life, remember to have grace with yourself if you make a mistake or don’t do it perfectly. God created the sabbath as a gift to give us rest, joy, and peace, not to be a legalistic rule for us. Whether you’re new to the idea of Sabbath or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode offers both biblical insight and real-life application.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Welcome back to Resident Strangers! In this episode, we dive into what it means to parent through a Christian lens. With so many voices telling our culture how parenting should be, we can look to God’s Word, like Ephesians 6 and Deuteronomy 6, to guide us. And we have the Holy Spirit working in us to become more like Christ. Part of being a godly parent is teaching your kids to obey authority, so that they will obey God as He is the ultimate authority. We know that following and obeying God leads to the best life has to offer, which is what parents desire for their kids. Steve, Sarah, and Rich dig into what it looks like for parents to provoke their kids, how to avoid that, and how to build kids up. All of this and more on today’s episode!Last week’s episode on Fatherhood: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5UXFHPrazLu5NuO4gY368M?si=3fe6b9dfa3644622Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

It’s almost Father’s Day, so we are here with a special episode about fatherhood! Steve and Rich share their experience as fathers as well as the importance of fathers. Father’s Day can be a difficult time for some, especially if you have a negative relationship with your dad. God is the perfect Father. He never fails and is always faithful. As, Christians, fathers should reflect God and model His character to their kids. The role of a father is truly powerful, and Steve and Rich offer advice on how to steward it well. Happy Father’s Day! Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Today is the last episode of our long-awaited predestination series — for now! To wrap up this topic, we cover works and faith. Is faith a work? If it is, how do you know if you’re truly saved? The Bible says that it is by grace we are saved, through faith, and it is not a result of works. What does that mean in terms of predestination? So many believers feel insecure about their salvation, but do they have grounds to feel that way? Steve and Rich give their final thoughts on predestination and salvation, and assure us that our salvation is secure! Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

We are so excited to be back with you today on Resident Strangers! Steve, Sarah, and Rich are continuing the conversation about the Calvinist view of predestination, specifically the order of salvation. Have you ever thought about the process of how people are saved? Does God call us to respond to the gospel message and be made alive by the Holy Spirit first, because we cannot do it on our own? This idea is known as total depravity and regeneration, which the Calvinistic view says are crucial steps in the order of events in salvation. Our hosts go over what the Bible means to be dead in sins and being born again, along with the biblical order of salvation. At what point does faith occur in the order of salvation, and who initiates it—God or us? As you listen to this episode, we encourage you to think—which order of salvation best reflects the character of God as both just and merciful? Which one is best supported by the Bible?Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments?Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Welcome back to part 4 in our predestination series! Today, the team breaks down the meaning of the sovereignty of God and compares it to the determinist belief. As Christians, we often hear phrases like “God is sovereign” or “God is in control,” but how should we understand those statements in light of what Scripture teaches? Is God's sovereignty the same as determinism? Determinism is the idea that every single detail of our lives is already pre-planned by God, including our choices. From what we eat for breakfast to where we are right now, was it meticulously planned by God in advance? Steve, Rich, and Sarah notice that this belief can have much larger-scale implications, like all our sins would be determined by God, and the mass destruction of people throughout history was caused by God. But that doesn’t sound like the loving God in the Bible. If determinism is true, it is impossible for us to choose between two things because God has already planned the choice that we would make. Even throughout the Bible, it shows us that we can choose between two alternatives and are free to do so. The biggest choice is to sin or to obey God. How can we make sense of these things? How can we grapple with the idea that a perfect and loving God can cause sin? Listen to this episode to find out!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5zN34EnMKLqzHCct_ijPFQbhlrQApKgOInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list - http://eepurl.com/iwv3UgQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Links Mentioned: 64 | Does God Cause Suffering?57 | The Sovereignty of God58 | Further Discussion on SovereigntyWould you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Welcome to Part 3 of the Predestination series! Before you listen, make sure you are caught up with the rest of the episodes! Last week, Steve and Rich dove into the context of verses commonly used in the discussion of predestination. Today, they discuss what election is, analyzing Romans 9 to provide us with context. The traditional Calvinist view holds that God elects Jacob, not Esau, for salvation. But Steve and Rich bring up another perspective: the context of the passage does not imply election for salvation. ‘Election’ simply means to be chosen to do something. Whenever the Bible uses election, we must ask, “who is being chosen/elected for what?” When people are chosen or elected, it is not for salvation, but for service — to do a specific task that God calls them to. If you like this series, let us know! We’d love to hear your feedback! Email us at [email protected]! Stay tuned for next week as we continue with this topic!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥  Interested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list Questions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

This week, the long-anticipated series on predestination continues as Steve and Rich take a deep dive into some of the most debated passages surrounding this complex topic. If you missed last week’s episode, we highly recommend going back to listen or watch as it lays essential groundwork for what’s to come. Rich emphasizes how deeply our presuppositions can shape the way we interpret scripture, and predestination is a prime example. Unfortunately, many people approach this topic with definitions formed by sources outside of scripture, often before even opening the Bible. That’s why it’s crucial to recognize and set aside those preconceived ideas as we study. In this episode, Steve references passages like Acts 4:27-28 and 1 Corinthians 2:6-7 though these verses are not typically highlighted in discussions on predestination. Meanwhile, Rich explores in detail the more frequently cited texts such as Romans 8:29-30 and Ephesians 1:5 & 11. He thoughtfully breaks down each verse, encouraging listeners to ask a vital question: Who is being predestined, and to what? Rich also addresses the meaning of “adoption as sons” and how it relates to salvation. Both he and Steve make the case that Paul’s use of the phrase does not refer to salvation itself, and they spend time unpacking the context to support this view. This episode may feel more detailed than usual, but it’s worth the close attention. We encourage you to set aside any presuppositions, engage with the scripture honestly, and follow the discussion with an open heart. And don’t forget to tune in next week for part three of this compelling series!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Interested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments?Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Welcome back listeners! Join Sarah, Steve, and Rich in this long-awaited series covering the topic of predestination! Predestination is the idea that God preordained for people to be saved. Although predestination is a secondary issue in Christianity that our salvation doesn’t hinge on, it is a very controversial topic amongst many Christians. While Christians do not all agree on this issue, that doesn’t mean there should be division. Whether you believe in predestination or not, you are not any less of a Christian.In this episode, they unpack what predestination means, why it matters, and how believers can approach it without compromising unity. Whether you're convinced God predestines individuals for salvation—or you're still wrestling with the concept—this conversation is for you.Like with any theological topic, it is so important to go back to scripture. Not reading into scripture using our own preconceived thoughts or theology, but letting God’s Word speak for itself to shape our theology. How we think theologically affects the way we live as a Christian. As Steve says, our thoughts on the process of salvation and the human’s response to it affects our outlooks toward the gospel. So, we want to make sure that whatever we’re thinking and believing lines up with God’s Word. Come along for the ride as we begin exploring this topic in the coming weeks!Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Interested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email list Questions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

Steve, Rich, and Sarah are back this week to tackle a deeply personal and often controversial topic: IVF. What is IVF? IVF, short for in vitro fertilization, is a process of fertilization where eggs and sperm are combined in a lab to create an embryo, which is then placed in the uterus in hopes of beginning a pregnancy. Technology and science has become so advanced that people can now “artificially” make babies. On the surface, IVF can seem like a beautiful gift—especially for those walking through the pain and heartbreak of infertility. That struggle is very real, and for anyone who has gone through this process, or was born through it, know this: your life is deeply valuable because you are made in the image of God. But IVF also raises serious ethical and spiritual questions. Steve and Rich explore some of these, especially the concern that many embryos are often created, but not all are used—leaving some to be frozen indefinitely or even destroyed. IVF itself isn’t inherently wrong, but what happens to the unused embryos is a heavy decision and important issue. How should Christians think about IVF? How do we navigate these topics and modern technology in a way that’s consistent with God’s Word? Join us for this important conversation as we wrestle with the complexity of IVF with both compassion and conviction.Watch Resident Strangers on YouTube 🎥Steve's January 2025 sermon on IVFAdditional resources on IVF:The Case for Life by Scott KlusendorfHow IVF Is Changing Our View of Human BeingsThe Tragic Consequences of the IVF IndustryMoral Factors to Take into Account if You're Considering IVFThe Black Box of IVFInterested in studying Greek with Rich? Email [email protected]. Sign up for the Resident Strangers email listQuestions or comments? Email [email protected] Would you please subscribe and leave us a review? This will help our podcast reach more people! We’d love it if you’d share this podcast with your friends on social media and beyond. Join us next Tuesday as we continue the discussion on how to think like a Christian in this foreign world. 

HAPPY RESURRECTION SUNDAY! Resurrection Sunday is the most important day of the year! In fact, when you really think about it, every day since the original resurrection has been a kind of resurrection day—because those who follow Jesus live in the light of that defining moment.Today’s final Passion Week Devotional on the Resident Strangers podcast centers on John 20:1–9 (NASB). Verse 8 stands out as a powerful culmination of everything Jesus had been teaching before the crucifixion. In this moment, we see the fulfillment of promises spoken across centuries—promises that affirm Jesus is exactly who He claimed to be. His victory over death offers us unshakable hope and the assurance that He truly saves.Rich also draws from 1 Corinthians 15 and the book of 1 John to explore the lasting significance of the resurrection in the life of every Christ follower today.This Easter at Desert Springs, come celebrate the victorious hope of Jesus! We’d love to see you at one of our services happening today.Easter WeekendApril 20th | 6:00 AM (Sunrise Service in the Pavilion), 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM + 11:00 AM14440 W. Indian School Rd. Goodyear, AZ 85395Visit dscchurch.com for more informationIf today’s devotional encourages you, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with others.

Today’s episode of the Resident Strangers podcast reflects on Silent Saturday—the day between Good Friday and Easter. It’s a day that often goes unnoticed, but it’s one filled with deep significance.Have you ever paused to consider what that day must have felt like for Jesus’ followers? We have the privilege of knowing how the story ends—but they didn’t. They were left in the silence, wrestling with grief, doubt, and uncertainty.Scripture paints a picture of Jesus’ followers gathered together, processing their despair and clinging to fragile hope. Would the resurrection really come? Was everything Jesus said true?Silent Saturday reminds us of the power of community—especially in seasons of waiting, sorrow, or confusion. Many of us have walked through our own “silent Saturdays”—a devastating diagnosis, a loss, financial hardship, or heartbreak. And in those moments, community in Christ becomes a lifeline.But the beauty of Silent Saturday is that it points us forward. God is always faithful to His promises. The silence wasn’t the end. Resurrection was coming.We hope you’ll join us tomorrow for Devotional 9 as we continue our journey through Passion Week._________________This Easter at Desert Springs, come celebrate the victorious hope of Jesus! We’d love to see you at one (or more!) of our special services happening throughout the weekend.Easter Weekend• April 19th | 3:30 PM + 5:00 PM• April 20th | 6:00 AM (Sunrise Service in the Pavilion), 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM + 11:00 AMVisit dscchurch.com for more information

Today’s episode of the Resident Strangers podcast focuses on the profound events of Good Friday. Steve takes us through a timeline of that day, beginning in the early hours of the morning and leading us through the weight of each moment.The episode closes with a powerful reading of John 20:30–31, a reminder that John recorded these events so that we might believe that Jesus truly is the Messiah. Our prayer is that this reflection deepens your faith and helps you grasp the magnitude of the cross.If you’re local to Goodyear, we warmly invite you to attend our Good Friday service tonight, April 18th from 5:00–8:00 PM at Desert Springs Community Church. This is an open-house style service where you’re welcome to come anytime during those hours to take communion, reflect, and pray. We encourage you to make space for stillness with the Lord today.If this episode resonates with you, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing the podcast with others.We hope you’ll join us tomorrow for Devotional 8 as we continue our journey through Passion Week._________________This Easter at Desert Springs, come celebrate the victorious hope of Jesus! We’d love to see you at one (or more!) of our special services happening throughout the weekend.Good FridayApril 18th | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PMAn open-house style service where you can take communion, spend time in prayer, and reflect. Come as you are, anytime during the evening.Easter Weekend• April 19th | 3:30 PM + 5:00 PM• April 20th | 6:00 AM (Sunrise Service in the Pavilion), 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM + 11:00 AMVisit dscchurch.com for more information

Today’s episode of the Resident Strangers podcast reflects on John 13:1–14 (NIV), as Rich offers some context around what many know as Maundy Thursday—the night Jesus shared a final meal with His disciples before the cross.One of the most powerful moments from this evening is when Jesus, fully aware of what was to come, took the posture of a servant and washed His disciples’ feet. His love for them was unwavering—He loved them “to the very end.”And perhaps most striking of all: Jesus even washed Judas’ feet, knowing betrayal was just hours away.This would be His final moment with them before the resurrection. And what He chose to show them—humility, compassion, and selfless service—continues to speak volumes to us today as His followers.If this episode speaks to you, we’d be so grateful if you’d subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with others.Join us tomorrow for Devotional 7 as we approach the cross with hearts full of gratitude._________________This Easter at Desert Springs, come celebrate the victorious hope of Jesus! We’d love to see you at one (or more!) of our special services happening throughout the weekend.Good FridayApril 18th | 5:00 PM - 8:00 PMAn open-house style service where you can take communion, spend time in prayer, and reflect. Come as you are, anytime during the evening.Easter Weekend• April 19th | 3:30 PM + 5:00 PM• April 20th | 6:00 AM (Sunrise Service in the Pavilion), 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM + 11:00 AMVisit dscchurch.com for more information