Essential Church Podcast

Episode 169: A Conversation with Sam Jolman Oct 31, 2024

Andrew is joined by special guest Sam Jolman on this episode. Sam is a professional therapist with over twenty years of experience. He specializes in men's issues and sexual trauma recovery. Sam provides both context for the new book he is releasing, as well as how his own story of sexuality — both the beauty and the baggage that come along with it (03:22). Sam and Andrew go on to discuss the nuances of discerning beauty and lust, what it means to be moved by others without it becoming deviant, along with directing the thanks of such beauty to the One who has formed it (17:32). The remainder of the episode focuses in on the shame that so frequently haunts men and their sexuality (24:25). Guest: Sam Jolman Host: Andrew Arndt Links: Sam’s new book, The Sex Talk You Never Got: Reclaiming the Heart of Masculine Sexuality — https://www.amazon.com/Sex-Talk-You-Never-Got/dp/1400243904/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.-HuPuGNuuyOim-KdjXsTn-dvfZHG7bCIyqOpFUojisI.C-A-R_e5Ll8ddqzCCV44vsFzRPyEZFLkr_JECkA3_HE&qid=1718931908&sr=8-2

Episode 168: A Conversation with Mandy Smith Oct 30, 2024

In this episode, Andrew and Jordan Lewis sit down to talk with author and pastor Mandy Smith about her new book Amateur Saints and how God uses us in and through our weaknesses.

Episode 167: A Conversation with Brady Boyd Sep 18, 2024

In this episode, Brady and Andrew sit down to talk about Brady's newest book "Life-Minded," and the challenge of unity.

Episode 166: A Conversation with Christine Westhoff Apr 29, 2024

Episode 165: A Conversation with Jared Patrick Boyd Apr 15, 2024

On this episodes hosts Andrew Arndt and Daniel Grothe have a conversation with Jared Patrick Boyd, a pastor, spiritual director, and founding director of the Order of the Common Life. In this conversation, the trio dive into Jared’s complex origin story of church and the Christian ‘story.,’ as well as the topic of Christian deconstruction — and how a study of theology and contemplative prayer brought him back to a deeper need for the love of God.

Host: Andrew Arndt

Co-Host: Daniel Grothe

Guest: Jared Patrick Boyd (see below for info on Jared’s upcoming book)

BOOK: Finding Freedom in Constraint

BOOK INFO: https://www.ivpress.com/finding-freedom-in-constraint

PRESS KIT: https://www.ivpress.com/Media/Default/Press-Kits/A0431-press.pdf

EXCERPT: https://www.ivpress.com/Media/Default/Downloads/Excerpts-and-Samples/A0431-excerpt.pdf

Visit his website at jaredpatrickboyd.com.
Follow him on X (Twitter): @BoydJared
Follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaredpatrickboyd/

Episode 164: A Conversation with Ian Simkins Apr 01, 2024

Episode 163: How to Have Difficult Conversations Mar 18, 2024

Episode 162: A Conversation with Brit Windel Mar 04, 2024

On this brief episode of Essential Church, Andrew and Rory sit down with Brit Windel a pastor and church planter from Kenosha, Wisconsin. Brit shares the story of Daybreak Church, a church that is ‘making much of Jesus’ and serving the city. Brit’s story is one of faithfulness, longevity and serving.

Host: Andrew Arndt

Co-Host: Rory Green

Guests: Brit Windel

Producer: Briggs Boyd

Episode 161: A Conversation with Kenneth Tanner Feb 05, 2024

On this week’s episode Andrew and Daniel are joined by Ken Tanner, Pastor of Church of the Holy Redeemer in Rochester Hills, Michigan. Ken takes the time to wade through his own story of life and maturity, as well as the complexities of living a life devoted to ministry(2:30). Much of Ken’s life and ministry is wrapped up in the great journey he took through traditional charismatic church, into the great traditions of the church across history (17:09). The episode wraps with ken sharing three words of prophetic encouragement for the American Church(36:33).

Host: Andrew Arndt

Co-Host: Daniel Grothe

Guests: Ken Tanner

Producer: Briggs Boyd

Episode 160: A Conversation with Greg Waybright Jan 22, 2024

Greg is a former university president and pastor, and Andrew and Daniel start a conversation around how to sustain longevity in ministry (01:18). The trio lean into a discussion around Sabbath and work, and the reciprocal relationship they hold for pastoral faithfulness (11:05). The pod wraps up with an emphasis on the pastoral relationships we need to carry (29:00.

Host: Andrew Arndt

Co-Host: Daniel Grothe

Guests: Greg Waybright

Producer: Briggs Boyd

Episode 159: A Conversation with Geoff Holsclaw Jan 09, 2024

Andrew and Geoff Holsclaw sit down to discuss how the field of neuroscience and spiritual formation intersect in the life of faith (3:43). Andrew and Geoff go on to discuss how these new fields of combined study can actually help people who are beginning to wrestle with, or even deconstruct their faith (12:45). A rabbit trail about attachment theory and how it potentially relates to our experience of God, round out the episode (30:10).

Host: Andrew Arndt

Guests: Geoff Holsclaw

Producer: Briggs Boyd

Episode 158: A Conversation with Bri Stensrud Nov 30, 2023

Andrew Arndt and Daniel Grothe are joined by a New Life congregation member and author Bri Stensrud to talk about the complexities and challenges of what it looks like to “meet the strangers at our gates.” (01:35) The trio discuss how this issue moves far beyond simply a social or political issue, Bri helps guide a discussion around immigration and caring for the foreigner and its biblical roots. (10:54). The last stretch of this episode includes both the practical and the personal ways we can all get involved in this conversation. (29:45)

Host: Andrew Arndt

Co-Host: Daniel Grothe

Guests: Bri Stensrud

Producer: Briggs Boyd

For pastors/churches:

Evangelical Immigration Table

World Relief

For laypeople:

Women of Welcome

Books:

Start with Welcome

The Bible and Borders

Welcoming the Stranger

Find Bri: Instagram

Episode 157: A Conversation with Derek Vreeland Nov 02, 2023

Andrew and special guest, Derek Vreeland have a detailed discussion around Derek’s new book Centering Jesus: How the Lamb of God Transforms Our Communities, Ethics, and Spiritual Lives. One of the core values of Essential Church is that Jesus is at the center, and this is exactly what Derek’s book reveals — from the book of Revelation, the COVID pandemic, and the power of unity (02:22). At the crux of Derek’s book is the metaphor of Jesus as the Lamb of God, and the multitude of ways that metaphor is fleshed out through Jesus’ life (15:34). This conversation lands by discussing how prayer is the ultimate act of seeing Jesus at the center of all things (24:22).

Host: Andrew Arndt

Guests: Derek Vreeland

Producer: Briggs Boyd

Derek Vreeland’s books — https://derekvreeland.com/books/ (https://derekvreeland.com/books/)

Episode 156: A Conversation with Dr. Russell Moore Oct 12, 2023

Andrew and Brady take the time n this episode to sit down with author Dr. Russell Moore to discuss his book Losing Our Religion, An Alter Call for Evangelical America. Russell shares the history that created a need for such a book, but also the weight of utilizing his prophetic voice in a time of need (3:36). Dr. Moore goes on to share a few key ideas and principles around how to better discern and live wisely when dealing with the great social challenges of our day (15:53). The trio then round out the conversation contemplating the moral fiber of future leaders as well as pondering what needs to happen in America for true revival to take place (24:06).

Host: Andrew Arndt

Co-Host: Brady Boyd

Guests: Dr. Russell Moore

Producer: Briggs Boyd

Losing Our Religion, An Alter Call for Evangelical America by Russell Moore — https://www.amazon.com/Losing-Our-Religion-Evangelical-America-ebook/dp/B0BPWRF4C5/ref=sr_1_1crid=3I076VEZFKVJK&keywords=losing+our+religion%2C+an+altar+call+for+evangelical+america&qid=1696973367&sprefix=losing+our+religion%2C+an+alter+call+for+evangelical+america%2Caps%2C99&sr=8-1

Episode 155: A Conversation with Frederick Christian Bauerschmidt Oct 05, 2023

On this episode of the Essential Church podcast Andrew Arndt is joined by Pastor Daniel Grothe for a conversation with special guest Frederick Christian Bauerschmidt. The trio ask the all-important question about the nature of prayer (00:50). Andrew then guides the interview towards a breakdown of the Lord’s Prayer and raises the question: is Jesus teaching us to pray backwards (8:00)? Our hosts and guest spend the remainder of the episode having a truly honest and vulnerable discussion around the struggles and tensions of prayer — the distractions, the theological stumbling blocks, and more (18:40)!

Host: Andrew Arndt

Co-Host: Daniel Grothe

Guests: Frederick Christian Bauerschmidt

Producer: Briggs Boyd

Episode 154: Five Key Elements of Successful Preaching Sep 14, 2023

Essential Church’s Andrew Arndt is joined by Rory Green, Associate Lead Pastor at New Life East to talk all things preaching and teaching ahead of the Essential Church Learning Community on September 19th. (9:49) The duo goes on to discuss the “Five key elements of successful preaching” — Preparation, Presence, Authority, Content, and Creativity. (20:05) Along with conversations around preaching as “show-and-tell”, (29:15) how to move from writing a sermon, to mind mapping one, (43:26) as well as an announcement of a brand new podcast called Preaching Lab.

Host: Andrew Arndt

Guests: Rory Green

Producer: Briggs Boyd

Episode 153: The Ache for Meaning - An Interview with Tommy Brown Aug 31, 2023

In this episode we sit down with pastor and author Tommy Brown to talk about his new book The Ache for Meaningand how the temptations of Christ reveal who we are and what we are seeking.

Episode 152: Neuroscience and Spiritual Formation - A Conversation with Michael Hendricks Apr 27, 2023

In this episode we sit down with Michel Hendricks to talk with him about his book The Other Half of Church: Christian Community, Brain Science, and Overcoming Spiritual Stagnation.

Episode 151: Good News for Anxious Christians - An Interview with Philip Cary Apr 20, 2023

In this episode we sit down with Dr. Philip Cary to talk about unbiblical and unhelpful stuff that evangelicals believe and how the gospel liberates us. Grab his book Good News for Anxious Christians.

Episode 150: The Rule of Life Part 2: Perils and Pitfalls Apr 13, 2023

In this episode (part 2 of 2) we continue our conversation with Pastors Brad Baker and Sarah Jackson to talk about some of the perils and pitfalls of working with a Rule of Life.

Episode 149: What is a Rule of Life (Pt. 1) Mar 30, 2023

In this episode (part 1 of 2) we sit down with Pastors Brad Baker and Sarah Jackson to talk about what a ‘rule of life’ is, why it matters, and how to develop one.

Episode 148: When Narcissism Comes to Church with Chuck DeGroat (Pt. 2) Mar 23, 2023

In this episode we sit down with therapist and educator Chuck DeGroat to talk about the phenomenon of narcissism; what it is, how to spot it, and how to address it in our communities. Chuck is the author of When Narcissism Comes to Church. This is part 2 of 2.

Episode 147: When Narcissism Comes to Church with Chuck DeGroat (Pt. 1) Mar 16, 2023

In this episode we sit down with therapist and educator Chuck DeGroat to talk about the phenomenon of narcissism; what it is, how to spot it, and how to address it in our communities. Chuck is the author of When Narcissism Comes to Church. This part 1 of 2.

Episode 146: Steve Carter - The Gift of Pain Mar 09, 2023

In this episode we sit down with author and pastor Steve Carter to talk about times of crisis and what it looks like to receive the good gifts of God in them.

Episode 145: Re-enchanting the Text - A Conversation with Cheryl Bridges-Johns Feb 20, 2023

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Cheryl Bridges-Johns, author of Re-enchanting the Text: Discovering the Bible as Sacred, Dangerous, and Mysterious (releases May 16), to talk with her about what it means to read the Bible in the wildness and power of the Spirit.

Episode 144: A Conversation with Sharon & Ike Miller Feb 15, 2023

In this episode we sit down with Sharon and Ike Miller, co-pastors of Bright City Church in Raleigh-Durham, Carolina to talk about life, ministry, and what they’re learning about leading well together.

Episode 143: Katelyn Beaty - Celebrities for Jesus Jan 19, 2023

In this episode we sit down to talk with Katelyn Beaty about her book Celebrities for Jesus—on the perils of celebrity in the evangelical world and what we can do to counteract it.

Episode 142: Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies with Marilyn McEntyre Dec 08, 2022

In this episode we sit down with writer and teacher Marilyn McEntyre to talk with her about why our speech is so important and how sanctified speech and sanctified lives are connected. Check out her book Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies.

Episode 141: The Love That is God - An Interview with Frederick Christian Bauerschmidt Dec 01, 2022

In this episode we sit down with Frederick Christian Bauerschmidt to talk with him about his book The Love That is God: An Invitation to Christian Faith.

Episode 140: Equipping our Youth for the Mission of God Nov 10, 2022

In this episode we chat with Greg Stier, the founder and CEO of Dare to Share, which equips youth leaders and students in relational evangelism. We chat with him about best practices for doing just that.

Episode 139: The New Landscape of Church Leadership with Sean Morgan Nov 03, 2022

In this conversation we sit down with Sean Morgan, founder of The Ascent Leader, to talk with him about some shifts he’s seeing in the landscape of church leadership over the last few years.

Episode 138: The Five Masculine Instincts with Chase Replogle Oct 27, 2022

In this episode we sit down with pastor and author Chase Replogle to talk about his book The Five Masculine Instincts.

Episode 137: Discerning Christ in the Old Testament with Chris Green (Part 2) Oct 06, 2022

In this episode we pick up our conversation with Dr. Chris Green on discerning Christ in the Old Testament. This is part 2 of 2.

Episode 136: Discerning Christ in the Old Testament with Chris Green (Part 1) Sep 29, 2022

In this episode we sit down with our friend Dr. Chris Green to talk with him about what it means (and how!) to discern Christ in the Old Testament. This is part 1 of 2. Be sure to catch part 2 next week!

Episode 135: Streams in the Wasteland Sep 22, 2022

In this episode Daniel and Andrew sit down to talk about Andrew’s recently released Streams in the Wasteland: Finding Spiritual Renewal with the Desert Fathers and Mothers. Grab your copy on Amazon!

Episode 134: 10 Keys to Finishing Well Sep 07, 2022

In this episode we celebrate Pastor Brady and Pam’s 15 year anniversary at New Life Church by reflecting on some keys to finishing well.

Episode 133: The Challenge of Unity May 16, 2022

In this episode we take you to a conversation New Life Midtown’s Jayde Duncan and New Life Friday Night’s Jordan Victoria Lewis recently had with our ministry staff on the challenge of cultivating unity in the church in a culture that is very often divided over issues of race. This conversation is based in part on a chapter in Glenn Packiam’s new book The Resilient Pastor.

Episode 132: The Way of the Dragon or the Way of the Lamb? An Interview with Kyle Strobel Mar 28, 2022

In this episode we sit down with Dr. Kyle Strobel to talk about the nature of power via his book (co-authored with Jamin Goggin), The Way of the Dragon or the Way of the Lamb?

Episode 131: "Where the Light Fell" with Philip Yancey Mar 22, 2022

In this episode we sit down with one of the most prolific authors of the last hundred years, Philip Yancey, to talk with him about his new memoir Where the Light Fell.

Episode 130: The Art of Healthy Conflict Mar 09, 2022

In this episode, we share six rules for the art of having healthy conflict.

Episode 129: Good Study Habits Feb 28, 2022

In this episode Glenn and Andrew sit down with Dr. Michelle Anthony to talk about the why, what, and how of developing good study habits.

Episode 128: Attracting Strong and Capable Leaders Pt. 2 Feb 22, 2022

In this episode we pick up the conversation on attracting strong and capable leaders by talking about just what we mean by “strong and capable”.

Episode 127: Attracting Strong and Capable Leaders Pt. 1 Feb 14, 2022

In this episode we sit down to talk about the kind of environment that allows leaders to flourish.

Episode 126: All Things Beautiful with Dr. Chris Green Dec 06, 2021

In this episode we sit down with Dr. Chris Green to talk about how Jesus reveals himself to us through the arts. This conversation is an engagement with Chris’s book All Things Beautiful.

Episode 125: An Interview with Lyle Wells - Empire vs. Kingdom Leadership Nov 29, 2021

In this episode we sit down with the president of Integrus Leadership, Lyle Wells, to talk about “empire vs. kingdom” leadership and what it takes to remain resilient as leaders in a challenging environment. You can learn more about Integrus at www.integrus.org and by following @leadwithlyle and @integrusleadership.

Episode 124: Intentional Rhythms Nov 22, 2021

In this episode Sarah Jackson sits down with Glenn and Holly Packiam to talk about having intentional rhythms as a family. (Watch for the book Glenn and Holly are writing on this subject—releases next year!)

Episode 123: Emotionally Healthy Discipleship Nov 16, 2021

In this episode Glenn sits down with Sarah Jackson and Holly Packiam to talk about Pete and Geri Scazzero’s Emotionally Healthy Discipleship curriculum and how it can help churches lead people on a path towards spiritual and emotional maturity.

Episode 122: An Interview with Dr. Gregg Okesson - Witnessing To A Complex World (Pt. 2) Nov 11, 2021

In this episode pick up our conversation with Dr. Gregg Okesson to talk with his book A Public Missiology: How Local Churches Witness to a Complex World and what it looks like for local churches to witness to the reign of Jesus Christ in all of life.

Episode 121: An Interview with Dr. Gregg Okesson - Witnessing To A Complex World (Pt. 1) Nov 03, 2021

In this episode we sit down with Dr. Gregg Okesson to talk with his book A Public Missiology: How Local Churches Witness to a Complex World and what it looks like for local churches to witness to the reign of Jesus Christ in all of life. This is the first of two episodes.

Episode 120: A Church Called Tov (Pt. 2) Oct 27, 2021

In this episode we pick up our conversation with Dr. Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer to discuss their book A Church Called Tov: Forming a Goodness Culture That Resists Abuses of Power and Promotes Healing.

Episode 119: A Church Called Tov (Pt. 1) Oct 20, 2021

In this episode we sit down with Dr. Scot McKnight and Laura Barringer to discuss their book A Church Called Tov: Forming a Goodness Culture That Resists Abuses of Power and Promotes Healing. This is a two part episode.

Episode 118: The Power of Place Oct 13, 2021

In this interview we sit down with Daniel Grothe and talk about his new book The Power of Place: Choosing Stability in a Rootless Age.

Episode 117: Crisis Fatigue Oct 06, 2021

In this episode we sit down to talk about how leaders should think about responding to local and global crises when they arise, and about how they care for their own souls in crisis.

Episode 116: The Outward Facing Church Sep 29, 2021

In this episode we wrestle with the question, “What is salvation?” and what that means for our efforts to be “outward facing” in our ministries. (Much of the content of this podcast came from Session 1 of our recent Essential Church Learning Community. You can learn more about and register for our next Learning Community at theessential.church.)

Episode 115: The Resilient Pastor (Pt. 2) Sep 22, 2021

In this episode (part two of two) we sit down with Glenn Packiam to talk with him about his forthcoming book The Resilient Pastor: Leading Your Church in a Rapidly Changing World.

Episode 114: The Resilient Pastor (Pt. 1) Sep 15, 2021

In this episode (part one of two) we sit down with Glenn Packiam to talk with him about his forthcoming book The Resilient Pastor: Leading Your Church in a Rapidly Changing World.

Episode 113: An Interview with Dee Wilson Sep 01, 2021

In this episode we sit down to chat with the newest member of the New Life Worship staff, Grammy-winning artist Dee Wilson.

Episode 112: An Interview with Tara Beth Leach - Radiant Church: Restoring the Credibility of our Witness Apr 28, 2021

In this episode we sit down with pastor and author Tara Beth Leach to talk about her book Radiant Church: Restoring the Credibility of our Witness and what the church can do to recover a kingdom ethos.

Episode 111: An Interview with Lucy Peppiatt - Rediscovering Scripture's Vision for Women (Pt. 2) Apr 21, 2021

In this episode (the second of two) we conclude our conversation with theologian and New Testament scholar Lucy Peppiatt about her book Rediscovering Scripture’s Vision for Women: Fresh Perspectives on Disputed Texts in which she unpacks why and how the biblical texts traditionally used to support the subordination of women to men might not be saying what we think they’re saying.

Episode 110: An Interview with Lucy Peppiatt - Rediscovering Scripture's Vision for Women (Pt. 1) Apr 13, 2021

In this episode (part one of two) we sit down with theologian and New Testament scholar Lucy Peppiatt to talk about her book Rediscovering Scripture’s Vision for Women: Fresh Perspectives on Disputed Texts in which she unpacks why and how the biblical texts traditionally used to support the subordination of women to men might not be saying what we think they’re saying.

Episode 109: Developing Preachers and Teachers Mar 31, 2021

In this episode we sit down to talk about some of the ins and outs of intentionally developing preachers and teachers in our congregations.

Episode 108: An Interview with Winn Collier - A Burning in My Bones Mar 24, 2021

In this episode we sit down with Winn Collier, Director of the Eugene Peterson Center for Christian Imagination at Western Theological Seminary and to talk with him about the release of his book, A Burning in My Bones: The Authorized Biography of Eugene Peterson.

Episode 107: Four Rules for Preachers Mar 17, 2021

In this episode we sit down to talk about some of the marks of genuine Spirit-inspired preaching.

Episode 106: An Interview with Dr. Chris Green - Sanctifying Interpretation Mar 10, 2021

In this episode we sit down with Dr. Chris Green to talk about his book, Sanctifying Interpretation, and how God uses the ‘troubling texts’ of Scripture to make us holy.

Episode 105: The Places of Encounter Mar 03, 2021

In this episode we feature a conversation we had at our recent Essential Church Learning Community on “the places of encounter” in our worship gatherings.

Episode 104: The Pastor and the Worship Leader: 5 Battles Feb 24, 2021

In this episode we take you to a conversation between Pastor Brady and Pastor Jon Egan at our recent Essential Church Learning Community on the relationship between the senior pastor and the worship leader.

Episode 103: An Interview with Dr. Simeon Zahl - The Holy Spirit and Christian Experience Feb 03, 2021

Episode 102: An Interview with Rich Villodas - The Deeply Formed Life Jan 27, 2021

In this episode we sit down with pastor and author Rich Villodas to discuss his book, The Deeply Formed Life.

Episode 101: An Interview with Steve Cuss - Managing Leadership Anxiety Jan 20, 2021

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Cuss to talk about his book Managing Leadership Anxiety and how leaders can become not only more self-aware but also wise about managing both their own anxiety and that of others. You can learn more about Steve and his work at capablelife.me.

Episode 100: Responding to January 6th Jan 08, 2021

In this episode we sit down to talk about the events that transpired in our nation’s capitol on January 6th, what those events are telling us, and how the church needs to respond to it.

Episode 099: Extravagant: Discovering a Life of Dangerous Generosity Dec 01, 2020

In this episode we sit down with Pastor Brady to talk with him about his newest book Extravagant: Discovering a Life of Dangerous Generosity. Grab your copy over at Amazon today!

Episode 098: An Interview with Dr. Derwin Gray // The Good Life: What Jesus Teaches About Finding True Happiness Oct 28, 2020

In this episode we sit down with our good friend Dr. Derwin Gray to talk with him about his new book, The Good Life: What Jesus Teaches About Finding True Happiness.

Episode 097: Leadership During Turbulent Times: An Interview with Dr. Ben Witherington Oct 21, 2020

In this episode we sit down with New Testament scholar Dr. Ben Witherington to talk about church leadership during turbulent times.

Episode 096: 10,000 Fathers Oct 14, 2020

In this episode we sit down with a new addition to our staff, Aaron Keyes, to talk about the mission of his organization 10,000 Fathers and how to raise up worship leaders as genuine pastors in our churches. You can find out more about 10,000 Fathers at worship.school.

Episode 095: A Conversation on Church Discipline Oct 07, 2020

In this conversation, we sit down to talk about the issue of church discipline, what it is, and why it is so important.

Episode 094: All Flame Sep 09, 2020

In this episode we sit down to talk about Andrew Arndt’s new book All Flame: Entering into the Life of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Available on Amazon Now!

Episode 093: Covid-19: Where Are We Now? Sep 02, 2020

In this episode we sit down to discuss the state of the church seven months into Covid 19.

Episode 092: A Conversation on Race Jun 24, 2020

In this episode, we share a conversation we recently had at New Life Church on race, racism, and our hope for unity.

Episode 091: An Interview with N.T. Wright Pt. 2 Jun 17, 2020

In this episode, Andrew, Glenn, Jason, and Daniel chat about what they've learned over the years from NT Wright. Be sure to catch Part 1 of Glenn's conversation wherever you listen, or watch on YouTube and Facebook.

Episode 090: An Interview with N.T. Wright Jun 08, 2020

In this episode we sit down with world-renowned New Testament scholar N.T. Wright to talk about his new book "God and the Pandemic" as well as the way Gospel addresses racism.

Episode 089: When Is It Time To Plant A Church May 20, 2020

In this, the final episode of Season 6, we sit down to talk about how to know when the time and circumstances are right to plant a church. (Note: this episode was recorded before COVID-19.)

Episode 088: The Church in an Election Year May 13, 2020

In this episode we talk about the challenge of pastoring in an election year. (Note: this episode was recorded before Covid-19 hit, which is why there is no reference to it.)

Episode 087: An Interview with Tom Holland Pt. 2 May 06, 2020

In this episode we sit down for the second of a two part interview with best-selling writer and historian Tom Holland talking about his breathtaking book Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World. This is part 2 of 2.

Episode 086: An Interview with Tom Holland Pt. 1 Apr 29, 2020

In this episode we sit down with best-selling writer and historian Tom Holland to talk about his breathtaking book 'Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World'. This is part 1 of 2.

Episode 085: Chasing Wisdom Apr 22, 2020

In this episode we sit down with Pastor Daniel Grothe to talk with him about his book, Chasing Wisdom.

Episode 084: Pastoral Wisdom for Coping with Covid Apr 15, 2020

In this episode we sit down to talk about how Covid-19 has impacted us as well as some best practices we're learning as we navigate this.

Episode 083: An Interview with Matthew Bates Mar 11, 2020

In this podcast we sit down with New Testament scholar Matthew Bates to talk about what he means by 'gospel allegiance'.

Episode 082: The Art of Songwriting Mar 04, 2020

In this episode we sit down with Jon Egan and Micah Massey to talk about the agony, ecstasy, and discipline of songwriting.

Episode 081: 10 Hopes and Prayers Pt 2 Feb 26, 2020

In this episode we sit down to conclude our conversation on Andrew's article '10 Hopes and Prayers for the next 10 years.'

Episode 080: 10 Hopes and Prayers Pt. 1 Feb 19, 2020

In this episode we sit down to talk about an article written by Andrew on 10 hopes and prayers for the next 10 years.

Episode 079: Four Rules for Teams Feb 12, 2020

In this episode we discuss four rules for how teams should function in their meetings.

Episode 078: The Essential Church Learning Community Dec 11, 2019

In this episode, we revisit a previous conversation to talk about the 'what' and 'why' behind the launch of our Essential Church Learning Community.

Episode 077: An Interview with Preston Sprinkle Dec 04, 2019

In this episode we sit down with the founder and director of the Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender, Dr. Preston Sprinkle, to talk about what it looks like to really love our LGBTQ neighbors.

Episode 076: Women in Ministry Nov 20, 2019

In this episode, with John MacArthur?s controversial comments regarding Beth Moore in the air, we sit down to talk through some of the key texts for thinking about a theology of women in leadership.

Episode 075: Creating a Culture of Ongoing Leadership Development Nov 13, 2019

In this episode we sit down to talk about how senior leaders can create a culture of ongoing leadership development - both values and methods.

Episode 074: A Conversation with Amy Julia Becker Nov 05, 2019

In this episode we sit down to talk with author Amy Julia Becker about her book White Picket Fences: Turning Toward Love in a World Divided by Privilege.

Episode 073: Discipleship and Spiritual Formation Oct 30, 2019

In this episode we sit down with Sarah and Jason Jackson to talk about discipleship and spiritual formation and what we can do in our churches to encourage it.

Episode 072: Evangelism: What and How Oct 23, 2019

In this episode Andrew, Glenn Packiam, and Jason Jackson sit down to talk about how to tilt the culture of our churches towards evangelism, and how they've seen the Spirit use the ministry of Alpha to help.

Episode 071: A Conversation with Tim Lucas and Warren Bird Oct 16, 2019

In this episode we sit down with Tim Lucas and Warren Bird to talk about their new book Liquid Church and what they are seeing the Spirit do both on the east coast and across the country.

Episode 070: A Conversation with Ray Johnston Oct 09, 2019

In this episode we sit down with Pastor Ray Johnston of Bayside Church in Sacramento to talk about church health, growth, and the kind of leadership both require.

Episode 069: An Interview with Sean Morgan Oct 02, 2019

In this episode we sit down with Sean Morgan to talk about some current trends among leaders in the North American church.

Episode 068: Blessed, Broken, Given Sep 25, 2019

In this episode we sit down with Pastor Glenn Packiam to talk with him about his new book ?Blessed, Broken, Given.?

Episode 067: Remarkable Pt. 2 Sep 18, 2019

In this episode we continue and conclude our conversation with Pastor Brady about his new book, Remarkable.

Episode 066: Remarkable Pt. 1 Sep 11, 2019

In this episode (part 1 of 2) Andrew Arndt, Glenn Packiam, and Daniel Grothe sit down with Pastor Brady to talk about his new book Remarkable.

Episode 065: Be Merciful to Those Who Doubt Sep 04, 2019

In this episode Glenn Packiam and Andrew Arndt sit down to talk about how to walk wisely, compassionately, and pastorally with people experiencing a crisis of faith.

Episode 064: What Are Summers For? (Pt 2) May 15, 2019

In this episode we pick up our conversation on summers to talk about the purpose of pastoral sabbaticals.

Episode 063: What Are Summers For? (Pt 1) May 08, 2019

In Part 1 of What Are Summers For, we talk about the personal side and the organizational side of summers and how to make the best use of them.

Episode 062: The Old Testament and the Church (Pt 2) May 01, 2019

This is part 2 of our conversation on how the Old Testament and the New Testament relate, and how we can faithfully preach and teach the Old Testament in the Church.

Episode 061: The Post Easter Blues Apr 24, 2019

In this episode Pastor Brady and Andrew sit down to talk about some "do's" and "don'ts" for pastors in the week following Easter.

Episode 060: The Old Testament and the Church (Pt 1) Apr 17, 2019

In this episode (part 1 of 2) we sit down to talk about the challenge of preaching and teaching Christ in and from the Old Testament.

Episode 059: Why Pastors Want to Quit Apr 10, 2019

In this episode we sit down to talk about some of the things that make pastors want to quit the ministry, and what we can do about it.

UNCUT: An Interview with Jimmy Mellado (Extended Version) Apr 03, 2019

In this UNCUT and EXTENDED episode, Pastor Brady sits down with Jimmy Mellado, the president of Compassion International, for a wide-ranging interview on his background, the sources of poverty, and the challenges of leadership.

Episode 058: An Interview with Jimmy Mellado Apr 03, 2019

In this episode Pastor Brady sits down with Jimmy Mellado, the president of Compassion International, for a wide-ranging interview on his background, the sources of poverty, and the challenges of leadership.

Episode 057: The Pastoral Workweek Mar 27, 2019

In this episode we sit down to talk about the central tasks of pastoral ministry and how to delegate and manage your time accordingly.

Episode 056: Jon Egan "Unveil" Interview Mar 13, 2019

In this episode we sit down to talk with our dear friend and worship leader Jon Egan about his new album ?Unveil? and all that he?s seeing and learning as a worship leader and songwriter. (You can pre-order Unveil wherever good music is sold online. You?ll get one song each week till the album releases on March 29th.)

Episode 055: Good Manners for Guest Speakers Mar 06, 2019

In this episode we sit down to talk about the what's and why's behind choosing guest speakers, as well as some 'good manners' for guest speakers to abide by.

Episode 054: Tithing Feb 27, 2019

In this episode we sit down about the spiritual discipline of tithing. Is it still a valid New Testament practice? What does the Scripture teach? How should we talk about it?

Episode 053: The Why's and How's of Global Engagement Feb 20, 2019

In this episode we sit down to talk about how the local church can responsibly and wisely enter into a robust engagement with the work of God?s Spirit around the world.

Episode 052: Leading From The Middle Feb 13, 2019

In this episode we discuss the opportunities and challenges of leading "from the middle" of an organization. How do we become catalysts for health, creativity, and even vision when we don?t occupy the so-called "first chair"?

Episode 051: A Culture of Life Feb 06, 2019

In light of the recent abortion legislation passed in New York, we sat down to talk about what it looks like for the Church to not only preach but also work for a culture of life.

Episode 050: The Pastor As A Student Jan 30, 2019

In this episode we sit down to talk about the pastor as a student. Why is it important that a pastor be an ongoing learner, and what does that look like?

Episode 049: When Is It Time To Resign? Jan 23, 2019

In this episode we sit down to talk about what qualifies and disqualifies a person for ministry. How do you know when it's time to resign? What kinds of structure and culture do we need to have in our churches to keep them and those who lead them healthy over time?

Episode 048: Starting The Year Out Right Jan 16, 2019

In this episode, we sit down to talk about how to start the congregational year out on the right foot. What should we do? What should we not do? How can January poise us for what the Lord wants to do in our churches over the next 11 months?

Episode 047: A Conversation with Andrew Wilson Nov 28, 2018

In this episode we sit down to talk to our friend Andrew Wilson about his new book Spirit and Sacrament: An Invitation to Eucharismatic Worship to talk about the what, why, and how of blending the charismatic and sacramental expressions.

Episode 046: What is 'Multi-Congregational'? (Part 2) Nov 21, 2018

In this episode (the second of two) we sit down and finish our conversation about the multi-congregational model New Life Church has developed over the last several years. Why we did it, how it works, and what opportunities and challenges it presents.

Episode 045: What is 'Multi-Congregational'? (Part 1) Nov 14, 2018

In this episode (the first of two) we sit down to talk about the multi-congregational model New Life has developed over the last several years - why we did it, how it works, and what opportunities and challenges it presents.

Episode 044: The Pastor in Relationship Nov 07, 2018

In this episode, we sit down to talk about the kinds of relationships pastors need to cultivate in order to live and lead from a healthy place.

Episode 043: Why Church? Oct 31, 2018

In this episode, we sit down to talk about the role of the local church in the life of the believer. In a time when many people see participation in the local church as optional, we try to answer the question, "Why Church?"

Special Episode: Remember Eugene Oct 26, 2018

In this special episode we sit down to talk about the life and legacy of Eugene Peterson.

Episode 042: Creating Robust Community Oct 24, 2018

In this episode, we sit down to talk about the practical challenge of creating a robust sense of community in our local churches.

Episode 041: The Art of Making Big Decisions - Eight Questions to Ask Oct 17, 2018

In this episode, we sit down to discuss eight questions leaders should ask themselves as they follow the Lord's leading through big decisions.

Special Episode: Announcing The Essential Church Learning Community Oct 10, 2018

In this episode, we sit down to talk about the ?what? and ?why? behind the launch of our Essential Church Learning Community.

Episode 40: A Conversation with Matt Brown Oct 03, 2018

For this conversation, we sat down with Matt Brown to talk about the joy and challenge of evangelism, and how to do it the Jesus Way.

Episode 39: A Conversation with Lisa Bevere Sep 26, 2018

For this conversation, we sat down with nationally recognized author and speaker, Lisa Bevere to talk about life, marriage, ministry, and her latest book, "Adamant."

Episode 038: A Conversation with Clayton King Sep 19, 2018

For this conversation, we sit down with Clayton King and discuss the leadership structure of Newspring church and the value of healthy confrontation.

Episode 037: Courageous Preaching Sep 18, 2018

For this conversation, we discuss how courageous preaching requires us to say things that are costly.

Episode 036: Contending for the Spirit Sep 05, 2018

There's a difference between a church that prays and a praying church. Every church has some kind of prayer happening, [but] we are called to lead churches that have prayer at their core, at their essence.

Episode 035: A Conversation with Louie Giglio Aug 29, 2018

For this conversation, we sit down with Louie Giglio and discuss the Passion movement, worship, and everything in-between.

Episode 034: Reflections on Willow Creek Aug 22, 2018

For this conversation, we discuss the situation at Willow Creek and how this should cause us to reflect and pay attention in a deeper way.

Episode 033: Drawing the Best Out of Your Team May 16, 2018

For this conversation, we were joined by Ted Egly from the Center for Creative Leadership to talk about what leaders can do to get the best out of the teams and organizations they lead.

Episode 032: Prayer, Unity, and the Kingdom, A Conversation with Pete Greig May 09, 2018

In this conversation, we were joined by Pete Greig to talk about the role and purpose of prayer in the local church and how we can contend for unity and revival within the Church. We were so encouraged by the stories of bridge-building that are unfolding through the 24-7 prayer movement and we hope that it blesses you.

Episode 031: Developing a Discipleship Culture May 02, 2018

Before His ascension, Jesus gave a Great Commission: to go and make disciples. In this essential conversation, we talk about how discipleship happens and what it looks like for us to help people become disciples of Jesus. Join in as we discuss what the long journey of discipleship unfolds in the lives of the people around us.

Episode 030: The Life of the Preacher Apr 25, 2018

Ever have a week where you feel like you should just pack up your study and give up preaching altogether? It was a week like that for Pastor Daniel Grothe that sparked this conversation about The Life of the Preacher. Listen in as we talk about what we find at the core of the calling to preach the Word of God.

Episode 029: Doing Ministry in a Secular Age Apr 18, 2018

When Jesus told his followers to make disciples in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and all the ends of the earth, he meant that the Gospel should be brought to people where they are and in their contexts. So how do we as pastors and leaders bring the gospel to our neighbors in today's secular age? We talk about it in this week's essential conversation.

Episode 028: Singing Our Hope Apr 11, 2018

What happens when we worship? How do we select songs for congregational worship that instill hope? In this conversation, Dr. Glenn Packiam talks about what he learned as he researched the expression and experience of hope in our worship.

Episode 027: The Bible and the Church Pt 2 Apr 04, 2018

In this conversation, we pick up where we left off talking about the Bible. What is it, and how should it inform our lives and ministries?

Episode 026: The Cross of Christ Mar 28, 2018

A special episode just in time for Holy Week. In this conversation, we discuss the importance of the Cross of Jesus Christ. What exactly do we believe about Jesus' death and why does it matter? Listen in and enjoy this reflection as we move towards Good Friday.

Episode 025: The Bible and the Church Pt 1 Mar 21, 2018

In this conversation, we ask a simple and slightly funny question. What is the Bible? Perhaps one of the most taken-for-granted elements of Christian faith, we wanted to dig down and talk about what the BIble is, and what it isn't.

Episode 024: The Creed Mar 14, 2018

What can a centuries-old creed teach us about how to lead our ministries? In this conversation, we talk about how and why our church adopted the Nicene Creed and how it informs and shapes our ministry.

Episode 023: Spiritual Authority Mar 07, 2018

Spiritual Authority is a significant biblical concept that recognizes that God sends people into our lives to speak to us and guide us. In this essential conversation, we talk about the importance of spiritual authority, why people don't accept it, and how, when it is done right, it can be a beautiful gift.

Episode 022: The Purpose of Sunday Feb 28, 2018

Sundays come around with an alarming regularity. As we plan for our weekly worship services, the constancy of the calendar can inhibit us from stopping to focus on the lens through which we plan or what our end-goal should be. In this conversation, we talk about the factors we consider as we plan worship services that allow people to meet Jesus, to be formed into disciples, and to encounter God.

Episode 021: Healthy Transitions Feb 21, 2018

Transition is something that every church staff will experience. What matters is how those transitions take place. In this conversation, we discuss how to facilitate and enact healthy transitions.

Episode 020: Hiring and Firing Feb 14, 2018

In this conversation, we talk about what we've learned about hiring well and how to navigate firing people well, too. Maybe you're leading a church staff and facing a big decision regarding staffing, or perhaps you're curious about how a church staff might handle a staffing issue at your church. We hope that this conversation leads to greater health and trust among the staff at your church.

Episode 019: Finding Your Voice In Preaching Feb 07, 2018

In this conversation, Pastors Brady Boyd, Andrew Arndt, Daniel Grothe, and Glenn Packiam (who are all members of the New Life Church teaching team, talk about finding that unique voice that each preacher (or leader) must discover.

Episode 018: Developing a Culture of Generosity, Pt 2 Jan 31, 2018

How should pastors and churches help people position themselves to embrace generosity? In this conversation, a continuation from the previous episode, Pastors Brady Boyd and Andrew Arndt are joined by Chris Brown (Nationally Syndicated Radio Host of "Life Money Hope") to answer this question and more.

Episode 017: Developing a Culture of Generosity, Pt 1 Jan 24, 2018

Many pastors find it difficult to talk about giving and generosity in their churches, but developing a culture of generosity is essential to Christian living. In this episode, we have a conversation about how pastors can help our churches to embrace generosity.

Episode 016: Mental Health and the Local Church Jan 17, 2018

As we launch the second season of the Essential Church Podcast, we sat down with Kay Warren and Tommy Hilliker to talk about the Church's role in serving those facing mental illness.

Episode 015: Building Bridges Nov 29, 2017

In this week's podcast, we take a listen to a recent radio story that tells the story of our recent merger with Iglesia Nueva Vida, a local Spanish-speaking congregation in our city, and now the newest part of the New Life Church family.

Episode 014: Avoiding Cynicism in Ministry Nov 22, 2017

As leaders in the local church, we inevitably encounter criticism from within our congregations and from the outside world. In this week's conversation, we talk about some ways of addressing this criticism in a Godly way, as well as some ways to protect ourselves from encountering criticism unnecessarily.

Episode 013: Developing Ministry with the Hurting Nov 15, 2017

For this week's podcast, we were joined by Matthew Ayers, CEO of Dream Centers of Colorado Springs to talk about how the local church can lead the way in serving the most vulnerable people in their cities.

Episode 012: Blending the Contemplative and Charismatic Nov 08, 2017

For this episode of the Essential Church podcast, we're joined by Pastor Rich Villodas of New Life Fellowship in Queens, NY to discuss the contemplative and charismatic traditions of the Church.

Episode 011: The Church and Race Nov 01, 2017

For this week's podcast, we're joined by Pastor Derwin Gray of Transformation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina for a conversation on race, diversity, and leading multiethnic churches.

Episode 010: Lessons From Ten Years Pt. 2 Oct 25, 2017

We're picking up where we left off last week and continuing a conversation about the lessons learned from Pastor Brady's ten years of ministry at New Life Church. Our hope is that these lessons would resonate with and encourage you.

Episode 009: Lessons From Ten Years Pt. 1 Oct 18, 2017

Pastor Brady recently celebrated ten years of leading New Life Church as the Senior Pastor. In this episode, we looked back on the past decade and talk about the lessons learned. We hope that these lessons will apply to your ministry and will help strengthen your churches.

Episode 008: Restoring Fallen Leaders Oct 11, 2017

In this episode, we're joined by two incredible leaders, Pastor Jimmy Evans and Pastor Tom Lane. Not only have they led faithfully in local churches for most of their lives, they've also played integral roles in restoring fallen leaders back to health. So we sat down with them and asked them to share their wisdom. We pray that it blesses and encourages you.

Episode 007: Spiritual Parenting Oct 04, 2017

In this conversation, we're joined by Dr. Michelle Anthony to talk about how parents can take the lead in the spiritual lives of their kids.

Episode 006: To The Table Sep 27, 2017

What role should the Table have in worship services? How can we use the Essential Practice of going to The Table to point our congregations towards Jesus? Pastors Brady Boyd, Andrew Arndt and Glenn Packiam share how The Table plays an essential role in their ministries.

Episode 005: Cultivating a Team-Teaching Model Pt. 2 Sep 20, 2017

In the episode, Pastors Brady Boyd, Andrew Arndt, Glenn Packiam, and Daniel Grothe talk about how and why New Life Church embraced the Team Teaching mode

Special Episode: Welcoming the Stranger: A Conversation on DACA Sep 14, 2017

We sat down yesterday to have an essential conversation about the Church's role in welcoming the stranger among us and the ongoing theme of immigration that we see in scriptures.

Episode 004: Cultivating a Team-Teaching Model Pt. 1 Sep 13, 2017

In the episode, Pastors Brady Boyd, Andrew Arndt, Glenn Packiam, and Daniel Grothe talk about how and why New Life Church embraced the Team Teaching model.

Episode 003: Big Church & Small Church Sep 06, 2017

In this conversation, we talk about what we've learned from comparing different church models.

Episode 002: Worship in the Church Pt. 2 Sep 06, 2017

As we follow up on a conversation we began last week, we talk about what worship is, and what its purpose is in the congregational context.

Episode 001: Worship in the Church Pt. 1 Sep 06, 2017

In this weeks conversation, we talked with Jon Egan and Dr. Pete Sanchez about picking and writing songs for your congregation.

Episode 000: Welcome Sep 01, 2017

Welcome to the Essential Church Podcast! The very first episodes will be released on Wednesday, September 6. In the meantime, check out the website at TheEssential.church and follow us on twitter at @EssentialChurch.

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