The Ordinary Christian Podcast
A podcast dedicated to real people seeking to live out their Christian faith in the ordinary aspects of everyday life. It offers encouragement and practical perspectives for integrating faith into daily routines and challenges. Hosted by Craig Thompson, the show focuses on relatable experiences rather than abstract theology, aiming to help ordinary listeners grow in their walk with God.
Episodes
Episode 170: Be the Man You Want to Become--Start Leading Now
In this episode, Craig encourages men to stay engaged in their faith and responsibilities despite life’s busyness and temptations. It can be tempting to put off becoming the man you hope be, but a better approach is to work today to be the man you want to become. You can lead now, but leadership begins with leading yourself. This episode draws from biblical examples and Christian history to highli
Episode 169: We Need to Talk About Gluttony
In this episode, Craig explores the often overlooked sin of gluttony, its biblical roots, cultural acceptance, and practical steps for overcoming it. This conversation encourages honest self-examination and spiritual growth in the pursuit of holiness. We need to talk about gluttony, but we need to do even more than that. We need to battle with gluttony!Key TopicsBiblical definitions of gluttonyCul
Episode 168: Nice Churches Finish Last
In this episode, Craig discusses how to choose a biblical church, emphasizing the importance of truth, kindness, and long-term commitment. He explores the differences between niceness and kindness, and why churches must prioritize biblical fidelity over superficial politeness.Key TopicsThe importance of truth in churchDifference between niceness and kindnessLong-term commitment to a churchBiblical
Episode 167: Spiritual Formation with Matthew Bingham
In this episode, Dr. Matthew Bingham discusses the biblical and reformed approach to spiritual formation, emphasizing the importance of God’s Word, meditation, and self-examination in growing as a Christian. He shares insights from his book A Heart Aflame for God and explores how historical Puritan practices can enrich modern faith. The podcast concludes with a reminder that you don’t always have
Episode 166: Tips for a Panic-Free Church Visit
In this episode, Craig shares practical tips to help first-time church visitors overcome their fears and feel welcomed. Whether you’re visiting a church for the first time in a long while or inviting someone new, these insights make the experience less intimidating.Key TopicsWhat to wear when visiting a churchHow to arrive early and find a seatWhat to do with children during serviceHow to navigate
Episode 165: Church-Based Sports Ministry with Travis Vaughn
In this episode, Travis Vaughn from Upward Sports shares insights on how sports can be a powerful tool for community outreach and faith-based ministry. We explore the impact of youth and adult sports, the shift away from travel sports, and practical ways churches can leverage sports to reach unchurched families.Key TopicsUpward Sports mission and impactTransition from youth to adult sportsCommunit
Episode 164: Making Disciples in the Next Generation with Keilee Webb
Keilee Webb is a field staffer with K-Life in Missouri and serves as summer staff with Fuge Camps. On this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Keilee shares her journey of faith, discipleship, and ministry, emphasizing the importance of mentoring, and discipleship with a special emphasis on her heart for discipleship among to and among young women. Keilee also discuss the role of God’s Word
Episode 163: Christian Witness in Public Education with David Branham
In this episode, Craig and David Branham explore how Christian educators can live out their faith within the boundaries of public schools, emphasizing integrity, student-led initiatives, and the importance of community involvement.Key TopicsLiving out faith in public schoolsStudent-led religious activitiesBalancing church and state in educationVolunteering and mentoring in schoolsImpact of Christi
Episode 162: Yes, What You Wear Matters with Kyle McClellan
In this episode, Kyle McClellan discusses the importance of a pastor’s attire, its symbolism, and how dressing appropriately can communicate respect, authority, and the significance of the occasion. He shares practical advice for pastors and parents on levels of dress and the impact of clothing choices.Key TopicsThe significance of pastors’ attire and its symbolismHistorical evolution of clergy dr
Episode 161: The Titus Ten with J. Josh Smith
In this episode, Josh Smith discusses his book The Titus Ten and its impact on men’s discipleship, emphasizing the importance of biblical manhood, the role of the church, and practical ways to raise and challenge men in faith.Key TopicsThe origin and purpose of the Titus 10 bookThe importance of biblical manhood and dominionThe role of the church in empowering menBalancing family, church, and work
Episode 160: The Tools that Make a Man
In this episode, Craig explores the tools that shape us into the men and women we are, from physical objects like Bibles and tools to habits like coffee and exercise. He emphasizes how these tools influence our worldview, character, and relationships, and encourages listeners to reflect on the tools that have shaped their lives.Key TopicsThe significance of physical objects as landmarks and tools
Episode 159: Prepared to Give a Defense
In this episode, Craig explores the importance of active discipleship, the role of God's grace in salvation, and practical resources for growing in faith and intellectual understanding of Christianity.TakeawaysYour salvation is rooted in the complete work of Jesus Christ, not your efforts.Growth as a Christian requires active effort, not just passive belief.Reading the Bible and engaging with
Episode 158: Inside A Pastor's Office
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the significance of a pastor’s study, reflecting on his 20 years of ministry and the sacredness of the space where he meets with God and his congregation. He emphasizes the importance of prayer for pastors and encourages listeners to consider their own spiritual journeys and the potential call to pastoral ministry. TakeawaysA pasto
Episode 157: Stop Making Excuses. Make Christianity Ordinary Again.
In this episode, Craig emphasizes the importance of living an ordinary Christian life that reflects Jesus in all aspects of daily life. He challenges believers to stop making excuses and to pursue holiness, work diligently, and lead courageously in their families and communities.KeywordsChristian living, holiness, work ethic, biblical obedience, spiritual discipline, Christian leadership, sanctifi
Episode 156: Sanctification in the Christian Life
This episode explores the process of sanctification in the Christian life, emphasizing that growth in Christ is a gradual journey of applying biblical truths, not just acquiring knowledge. Craig Thompson discusses common misconceptions, the importance of discipleship, and how believers can intentionally pursue spiritual growth regardless of their starting point.TopicsThe nature of sanctification a
Episode 155: Wisdom from Ecclesiastes
The book of Ecclesiastes is a book of wisdom, but if read insufficiently, it can be downright depressing. Wisdom can increase sorrow and trouble, but only if we forget beginning and the end of wisdom. In this episode of the podcast, we wrestle with one short passage of Ecclesiastes to help us to live more wisely
Episode 154: Fighting For Your Family
In this episode, Craig discusses his latest book Fighting for Your Family, emphasizing the importance of fighting alongside family members against spiritual enemies rather than against each other. He shares personal insights, biblical principles, and practical strategies for strengthening family relationships and spiritual warfare.TopicsSpiritual warfare in the familyThe role of love and leadershi
Episode 153: Finding Yourself Through Surrender to Christ with Blake Guichet
In this episode, Craig interviews Blake Guichet, host of the Speakeasy Podcast, about her journey of faith, marriage, and ministry. They explore how personal growth, biblical submission, and prioritizing family can transform ordinary lives into extraordinary impact for Christ.Key TopicsBlake Guichet's personal faith journeyThe evolution of the Speak Easy podcastMarriage, submission, and biblic
Episode 152: I Want My Children to Be Privileged
Craig discusses the concept of privilege in the context of Christian parenting, emphasizing biblical goals and responsibilities. He advocates for intentionally providing children with privileges such as a two-parent home, safety, biblical sexuality, financial stability, community, and a relationship with Christ, while encouraging listeners to extend these privileges to others.TopicsThe concept of
Episode 151: Christian Engagement with Culture
In this episode, Craig Thompson explores how followers of Christ should engage with culture, emphasizing the importance of transforming culture through intentional action and biblical principles. He discusses Richard Niebuhr’s five views of Christ and culture, the concept of secular time, and practical ways to live on mission in a secular age.TitlesTransforming Culture: A Christian’s Guide to Enga
Episode 150: Apologetical Preaching
In this episode, Craig reflects on the art and importance of preaching in the modern age, emphasizing the need for authenticity, biblical fidelity, and apologetics to effectively communicate the Gospel in a postmodern world. Craig marks the shift from modern to postmodern culture and its impact on preaching. He also emphasizes the importance of character and authenticity in preaching and explores
Episode 149: Idiotic Things People Did in the Bible with Ray Comfort
In this engaging interview, Ray Comfort shares insights from his latest book Idiotic Things People Did in the Bible, explores biblical stories, and discusses the importance of the gospel. Discover how biblical characters’ foolishness highlights God’s grace and how to apply these lessons today. You’ll also be encouraged by Ray’s enthusiasm for the gospel and his winsome spirit. Ray’s newest book te
Episode 148: The Love Language that Matters Most with Gary Chapman
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig interviews Dr. Gary Chapman, renowned author of ‘The Five Love Languages.’ They discuss Chapman’s extensive experience in marriage and family ministry, the importance of understanding love languages, and insights from his new book, ‘The Love Language That Matters Most.’ The conversation emphasizes empathy, communication, and the attitude of
Episode 147: Reaching Men Through the Outdoors with Bryant Sims
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Bryant Sims, a former pastor and current employee of the South Carolina Baptist Convention. They discuss Bryant’s unique approach to evangelism through outdoor activities, particularly squirrel hunting, and how he has successfully integrated these interests into church outreach and men’s ministry. The conversation highlig
Episode 146: Overcoming Hurdles to Adoption with the Doweys and Lifeline Children's Services
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson discusses international adoption with the Dowey family and representatives from Lifeline Children’s Services. They explore the challenges and joys of the adoption process, the impact of political decisions on international adoptions, and the importance of advocacy for families looking to adopt. The Dowey family’s personal journey hi
Episode 145: A Few Tips for Learning and Applying God's Word
Most people agree that learning, knowing, and applying the Bible is important, but it is can also be challenging. Few people believe they know enough of the Bible or that they really understand it as well as they could (or should). In this episode, Craig shares a few tips for learning and applying God’s word. Hint: it is not magic, and it does require some work, but you can do it!
Episode 144: How Should I Pray?
Chances are you are listening to this because you are looking for steps to help you pray better. When Jesus’ disciples caught him in prayer in a “certain place,” they asked him, “Lord teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples to pray.” Jesus’s disciples never asked to be taught how to preach or teach. The Scripture does not mention the disciples ever asking Jesus to help them multiply loaves
Episode 143: Ignite Your Life with Barry Meguiar
In this episode Craig interviews Barry Meguiar, the founder of a successful car care business who transitioned into a ministry focused on sharing faith. Barry shares his journey from a troubled past to a life dedicated to God, emphasizing the importance of joy, purpose, and everyday evangelism. He encourages listeners to see their daily lives as opportunities to share their faith and move others c
Episode 142: The Lion Within Us with Chris Grainger
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Chris Grainger, the host of The Lion Within Us. Chris shares his journey of starting a men’s ministry, the importance of spiritual leadership, and how he uses his secular career to impact others for Christ. He discusses the challenges he faced, including personal struggles and the significance of encouragement in relation
Episode 141: Christmas Traditions 2025 Edition
Where did Christmas trees come from? What is Hanukkah and how is it related to Christmas? Who was Boniface and what connection does he have to Thor? Learn these traditions and more in this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast.
Episode 140: You Can Share Your Story (and You Should)!
In this episode, Craig emphasizes the necessity of having a personal mission plan to reach those around us, highlighting the responsibility of believers to share the gospel. He discusses the importance of discipleship and the call to be active missionaries in our communities.You can tell your story, so go do it.TakeawaysYou need a plan to reach your neighbors, friends, and family.If you don’t plan
Episode 139: What is a Christian?
What is a Christian? Maybe in your culture, you have been led to believe that a Christian is someone who was born into a Christian family. Perhaps you think a Christian is someone who attends church. If you watch enough news, you might even believe that a Christian is someone who lives in a particular place or votes in a particular way. The Bible doesn’t define Christianity in any of these ways.On
EPISODE 138: Practicing Life Together with Paul Gutackers
In this conversation, Craig and Paul Gutacker discuss the cultural myth surrounding the concept of absolute freedom and its implications on living a fulfilling life. He argues that the idea of living without constraints or obligations is misleading and ultimately detrimental. Drawing on biblical references, he emphasizes that true freedom involves recognizing and adhering to moral and ethical resp
Episode 137: Fighting For Your Family
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson discusses his new book, Fighting for Your Family. He shares the inspiration behind the book, emphasizing the importance of fighting for one’s family rather than against them. Craig covers themes of spiritual warfare, the role of leadership and commitment in marriage, the impact of physical health on family dynamics, and practical ap
Episode 136: Boyd Bailey and the Power of Generosity
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Boyd Bailey, president of the Georgia chapter of the National Christian Foundation and author of The Power of Generosity. They explore the multifaceted nature of generosity, emphasizing that it extends beyond financial contributions to include acts of kindness, hospitality, and the sharing of time and attention. Boyd shar
Episode 135: Join A Church
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the significance of joining a local church rather than merely attending. He emphasizes the accountability, community, and spiritual growth that come from being an active member of a church. The conversation explores the biblical basis for church membership, the role of the church in a believer’s life, and practical reasons for comm
Episode 134: Do Not Allow Those Who Do Not Understand the Mission to Define the Mission
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson discusses the importance of defining the mission of the church amidst cultural disagreements and challenges. He emphasizes the need for Christians to resist secular influences that seek to redefine their mission, focusing on the imperatives of loving God and making disciples. The conversation explores the characteristics of modern c
Episode 133: Don't Allow Violence to Silence your Witness
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig reflects on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the implications of violence against free speech. He discusses the cultural division in America, the importance of healthy debate, and the role of Christians in public discourse. Emphasizing the need for open conversations, Craig encourages listeners to engage with differing viewpoints while
Episode 132: You Need a Small Group
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the increasing church attendance among millennials and Gen Z and emphasizes the importance of small groups for spiritual growth and community. He encourages listeners to actively participate in small groups to foster relationships, accountability, and deeper understanding of God’s Word. The conversation highlights the need for conn
Episode 131: A Little Theology of Exercise with David Mathis
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig talks with David Mathis, a senior teacher and executive editor at Desiring God to discuss David’s new book, A Little Theology of Exercise. The conversation covers David’s journey in integrating physical exercise with his Christian faith, emphasizing the importance of caring for our bodies as a means to serve God and others. Mathis shares per
Episode 130: What is Baptism and Why Is it A Big Deal?
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the significance of baptism in the Christian faith. He addresses common questions from new believers and those transitioning from other denominations, emphasizing that baptism is an act of obedience following a profession of faith. Craig also explains the Baptist perspective on baptism by immersion, its symbolism, and its role as a
Episode 129: The Multigenerational Church Crisis with Bryan Chapell
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Dr. Brian Chappell about his book, ‘The Multi-Generational Church Crisis.’ They discuss the challenges and opportunities of fostering a multi-generational church, the differing perspectives of various age groups, and the importance of intergenerational relationships in faith development. Dr. Chappell emphasizes the need f
Do Hard Things Today
In this episode, Craig encourages listeners to embrace challenges and do hard things as a means of personal and spiritual growth. He discusses the importance of physical health, the development of personal disciplines, and how facing discomfort can prepare individuals for future challenges. The conversation emphasizes that doing hard things is not only beneficial for personal development but also
Episode 127: Death Comes for Us All
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the often-avoided topic of death, emphasizing its inevitability and the importance of preparing for it. He reflects on recent deaths of notable figures and personal acquaintances, highlighting the need for Christians to engage in conversations about mortality and judgment. The episode stresses the significance of living purposefull
Episode 126: The Freshman 15 With Travis Agnew
Travis Agnew is the pastor of Rocky Creek Baptist Church in Greenville, SC and is the author of several books. On this episode of the podcast, Travis talks about his book, The Freshman 15: How to put the weight on in all the right places. We discuss the strategies college freshmen can use to direct their devotion to the things of the Lord rather than the things of the world. We talk about the firs
EPISODE 125: SBC ANNUAL MEETING RECAP WITH CHRIS HEFNER
In this episode, Craig speaks with Chris Hefner to discuss their experiences at the Southern Baptist Convention’s annual meeting. They explore the structure and governance of the Southern Baptist Convention, the significance of the Cooperative Program, and the highlights from the meeting, including updates on missionaries and the role of seminaries. They also address the North American Mission Boa
Episode 124: Jerrad Lopes and the Dad Tired Podcast
In this episode, Craig interviews Jerrad Lopes, the host of the Dad Tired Podcast. They discuss Jerrad journey of faith, the struggles he faced in his marriage, and how these experiences led to the creation of the Dad Tired ministry. The conversation explores the importance of healing for men, the evolution of the Dad Tired ministry over the years, and the significance of community in supporting o
EPISODE 123: NEXT STEPS TO REACH THE NEXT GENERATION IN YOUR CHURCH
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses effective strategies for churches to engage and reach the next generation with the gospel. He emphasizes the importance of welcoming children and families, investing in youth ministry, and creating a safe and inviting environment. Craig shares insights from his own church’s experiences and encourages listeners to take an active rol
EPISODE 122: SO YOU WANT TO LEAD
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the essential qualities of effective leadership, particularly within the church context. He emphasizes the importance of being a learner and servant, earning respect through character, and the necessity of sacrifice for the mission. Craig also highlights the concept of leadership capital, urging leaders to use their influence wisel
Episode 121: A Word to High School Graduates
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson addresses high school graduates and their families, sharing insights from his own college experience. He emphasizes the importance of faith, community, and the challenges that may arise during college years. Craig encourages graduates to trust in the Bible, seek support from their church family, and remain steadfast in their faith a
Episode 120: Responding to God's Call with Greg Galuppi
Have you ever wondered what it might be like to pursue theological education in your thirties? Maybe you have contemplated vocational ministry, but you are afraid you're too old. Perhaps you work a full-time secular job and just feel like there is no place God could use you. If any of these scenarios describe you, you will be blessed by Greg's story of pursuing theological education as a h
EPISODE 119: STOP MAKING EXCUSES, START TAKING RESPONSIBILITY
Jesus called people out for their sin and their lack of belief. He didn’t make excuses. He called on people to take responsibility. And then, Jesus took responsibility for our sin. Jesus took our sin and shame and punishment. No excuses.It is time for you to stop making excuses and start taking responsibility.
EPISODE 118: KEEP DOING THE SMALL THINGS
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson emphasizes the significance of small, consistent actions in spiritual growth. He discusses how growth often occurs slowly and methodically, rather than through dramatic events. By sharing personal anecdotes and insights, he encourages listeners to embrace ordinary experiences and disciplines as powerful tools for transformation in t
EPISODE 117: MAKING CHURCH A SPECIAL PLACE FOR EVERYONE WITH ERIN TAYLOR
Erin Taylor oversees the All Access ministry at Malvern Hill Baptist Church. All Access is a ministry for and to families impacted by special needs. Through this ministry, Malvern Hill has become a church that is able to care well for even more people. In this episode, you will hear Erin share her heart for this ministry, you will learn how All Access is a mission to an unreached people group, and
EPISODE 116: 10 LESSONS FROM 25 YEARS OF MINISTRY
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig shares valuable lessons learned from 25 years in vocational ministry. He emphasizes the importance of viewing the church as the Bride of Christ, prioritizing preaching, understanding the significance of church culture over strategy, and the necessity of prayer. Craig discusses the hard work involved in pastoral ministry, the value of mentors
EPISODE 115: BEING A HEALTHY MEMBER OF YOUR CHURCH
In this episode I discuss the importance of being a healthy member of a church. I outlines five key reasons for joining a church, including spiritual growth, sharing the gospel, identifying personal idols, building up the church family, and honoring the Lord. I also emphasizes the need for commitment, especially during difficult times, and encourages listeners to actively participate in their chur
Episode 114: Finding the Right Church...and When to Leave
In this episode of the Craig discusses the process of choosing a church, emphasizing the importance of prayer, clarifying personal convictions, and building relationships. He provides practical steps for finding a church that aligns with one’s beliefs and serves the community, while also addressing when it may be necessary to leave a church. The conversation highlights the significance of godly le
Episode 113: You Are Not The Only One
One of Satan’s greatest tactics is to separate Christians from other believers and seek to “steal, kill, and destroy.” The church is your safe place when trials and troubles come, but often the church is the last place we feel safe and secure. Instead, when hard times come, even Christians are tempted to run from the church and to hunker down in solitude.One of the reasons Christians run away is b
Episode 112: Caregiving with Grit and Grace with Jess Ronne
In this episode I speak with Jess Ronne, founder of The Lucas Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting special needs caregivers. Jess shares her personal journey of caregiving, the challenges faced, and the importance of respite for caregivers. The conversation highlights the role of the church in supporting families with special needs, the need for inclusive spaces, and practical
Episode 111: Calling out the called with Scott Pace and Shane Pruitt
In this episode I speak with Scott Pace and Shane Pruitt to discuss their book Calling Out the Called. We explore the current landscape of ministry, the lack of young leaders, and the importance of inviting the next generation to consider a calling to ministry. The conversation delves into the process of discerning a call, the role of mentorship, and the necessity of creating opportunities for you
Episode 110: The Path to Being a Pastor
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Bobby Jamieson, a pastor and author, discussing his book 'The Path to Being a Pastor.' They explore the journey to pastoral ministry, the importance of humble aspiration, and the various roles within church leadership. Jamieson emphasizes that aspiring to ministry should focus on growth and qualifications rather t
Episode 109: Abide in Christ
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson discusses the importance of maintaining spiritual commitments made at the beginning of the year, particularly focusing on Bible reading and prayer. He emphasizes God's immutability, explaining that God does not change, which provides a solid foundation for faith. The conversation explores the concept of abiding in Christ as esse
Episode 108: Reading Suggestions for 2025
If you have made a commitment to read more in 2025, here are a few suggestions you might enjoy or benefit from.
- Jonathan Haidt—The Anxious Generation
- Michael Easter—The Comfort Crisis and Scarcity Brain
- Cal Newport—Slow Productivity
- Alan Noble—On Getting Out of Bed
- Abigail Shrier—Irreversible Damage and Bad Therapy
-
Episode 107: No Bad Days. Fighting Cancer with Paul Davis
In this episode, Paul Davis shares his struggle with stage four liver cancer. He tells how he has found hope in the hard days and how this diagnoses has given him a new perspective. There are no bad days, just some difficulties to overcome. Paul's attitude and faith have challenged and encouraged me. I know it will do the same for you.
Share this episode with someone who may need some encouragem
Episode 106: What Do You Stand to Lose?
In this episode, I share a recent Wednesday night sermon from the book of 1 Kings. We considered the life of King Solomon, how he started, how he lost his focus on the Lord, how he failed, and ultimately how he led his son to lose the kingdom. None of you have a literal kingdom to lose, but we all stand to lose much if we lose our focus on the Lord.
I hope you enjoy this episode. If you do, please
Episode 105: The Long-Term Impact of Short-Term Mission Trips with Brian Garbade
On this episode of The Podcast, Brian Garbade sits down to share his story of international mission engagement. From his first international trip that was a disaster, to today where he sits on the board of an evangelistic ministry from Scotland (The Heralds Trust), Brian sharers how short-term mission trips challenged him to be more missional abroad and more engaged in discipleship and evangelism
Episode 104: The Religion of American Greatness with Paul Miller
In this episode, Craig Thompson interviews Paul D. Miller about his book, The Religion of American Greatness: What’s Wrong with Christian Nationalism? They discuss the personal background of Paul Miller, the relationship between Christianity and America, the concept of separation of church and state, and the dangers of Christian nationalism. They also touch on the influence of Christianity on the
Episode 103: Reclaiming Childhood with Angela Thompson
In this episode recorded with a live audience, Craig and his wife Angela discuss 7-STRONG and Jonathan Haidt's book, The Anxious Generation. If you are interested in helping kids to thrive and seeing healthy communities come together with intention and purpose, this episode is for you.
Episode 102: Untangling Critical Race Theory with Ed Uszynski
Summary
Dr. Ed Uszynski discusses his new book, Untangling Critical Race Theory, and the importance of having conversations about race. He shares his personal background and experiences with race, highlighting the need for open dialogue and introspection. The conversation delves into the concepts of critical theory and Marxism, exploring their influence on critical race theory. The hosts discuss t
Episode 101: Made For Friendship- A Conversation With the Thompsons and the Tolberts
Life is better with friends. In this episode of the podcast, I have a conversation with Angela (my wife) and with our friends Luke and Patty Tolbert about the nature of our long friendship. We talk about what friendship is, how to find friends, and the joy found in a shared life together. Along the way we address the ways friendship can be inconvenient and some of the necessary personal sacrifices
Episode 100: Prioritize Real Connections and Other Lessons from 2020
I began the Ordinary Christian Podcast in 2020 just before the world shut down from a worldwide pandemic. In the four years since then, the podcast has continued in starts and stops. For the 100th episode, I decided to revisit some lessons we all learned during COVID shutdowns, but which we are on the verge of forgetting.
In this episode I encourage you to:
Prioritize people over possessions.
L
Episode 99: How to Listen to a Sermon without Dying
In this episode, I share tips on how to stay awake and engaged during sermons. I emphasize the importance of going to bed early on Saturday nights, preparing ahead by reading the passage of Scripture, arriving early to find a comfortable seat, and actively participating in worship through singing. It also helps if listeners to expect to be challenged and changed, take notes, plan to discuss the se
Episode 98: Moving Forward After Messing Up with Chris Rappazini
Dr. Chris Rappazini, a professor of leadership, discusses his new book Moving Forward After Messing Up and the importance of second chances. He shares a personal story about his relationship with his brother and how it inspired him to write the book. The conversation explores the challenges of recognizing and accepting our mistakes, the role of empathy in ministry, and the practical implications o
Episode 97: A Theology of Play with Kevin Gushiken
On this episode, Dr. Kevin Gushiken and I discuss his upcoming book A Theology of Play and the importance of incorporating play into the Christian life. He explores the reasons why Christians often don’t prioritize play and suggests that grounding play in theology and scripture can give us permission to enjoy life. He emphasizes the need for a playful attitude and spontaneous moments of play, as w
Episode 96: Bread and Bibles-A Conversation about D. L. Moody with Greg Quiggle
Dr. Greg Quiggle discusses his new book on D.L. Moody, titled Bread and Bibles: D. L. Moody's Evangelism and Social Action, which explores Moody's evangelism and social action. Moody was a prominent English-speaking evangelist in the 19th century and had a significant impact on Protestant Christianity. He was known for his ability to connect with the common person and his earnestness.
Moo
Episode 95: Choosing To Say No as a Parent with Adam Whiteside and Keven Newsome
As parents, our “no” can often be more powerful than our “yes.” But, saying “no” comes with risk as well as reward. On this episode of the podcast, I sit down with two other pastors from Malvern Hill and discuss why saying “no” must be a part of our regular conversations with our children. We discuss a recent sermon, travel sports, ballet, screen time, social media, and internet gaming. Perhaps mo
Episode 94: A Theology of Exercise with David Mathis
In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews David Mathis about the theology of exercise. They discuss the importance of exercise in their personal lives and how it impacts their roles as husbands, fathers, and pastors. They explore the biblical metaphor of running and the idea of embracing difficulty for the sake of reward. They also touch on the different types of
Episode 93: Finding Joy in the Struggle
What if life is supposed to be hard? What if difficult is normal, and easy is the rare icing on the cake. If life is supposed to be challenging, then part of the struggles in our lives do not come about because life is so difficult, but because we have made too much of life easy and have created an expectation that easy is normal.
The Bible is filled with words of warning about difficult days and
Episode 92: Bryan Plyler-Losing My Voice and Finding a Fuller Ministry
Bryan Plyler is a husband, father, aspiring angler, and the pastor of the River Church in Camden, SC. On this episode, Bryan shares about his recent health struggles that nearly left him without a voice and how God has worked in spite of that situation. He shares some helpful tips on anxiety and tells about lessons learned from hard spiritual struggles. The podcast closes with a good conversation
Episode 91: The Boys Are Not Alright. But They Can Be.
We are failing our boys. No one denies that boys in our culture are struggling, but perhaps you are not aware of just how great the struggle is. Boys are failing or falling behind in nearly every category imaginable. Consider a few stats:
Nationally, 70% of high school valedictorians are female.
In 2010 only 44% of college applicants were male.
As of 2016, the dropout rate for boys is 40% hig
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