Harbor, Pepperdine Bible Lectures

The Next Generation Speaks - Jeff Walling, NextGen Ambassadors May 03, 2024

Teachers:
Jeff Walling, NextGen Ambassadors
Worship Leader:
Won by One

Spurring One Another on in Every Conversation Toward Love and Good Deeds - Kim and Scott Lambert May 03, 2024

Did you know that there are four simple elements that make a good conversation great? Join Scott and Kim Lambert as they explore Hebrews 10:24 and share Heather Hollerman’s four mindsets that everyone should consider when having a conversation. This class will have a practical hands-on element so come ready to participate!
Teachers:
Kim and Scott Lambert

Why Being Last in a World Trying to be First is the Way of Jesus. - Jeff Hubbard May 03, 2024

Trophies. Promotions. Raises. Power. Authority. Honor. Credit... These are all things that the world around us values, pursues, and covets. This year we have yet another election cycle where individuals will be jockeying for votes, offices, and power. We can’t turn on the TV, listen to a podcast, get on a website, or even walk out our front door without being bombarded with the temptation to seek after the same type things. And yet… rather than grasp worldly power, fame, or authority Jesus actually shunned them. Instead he used words like humility, sacrifice, service, and submission. So how do we as Christians in the 21st century, follow the way of Jesus that teaches that an upside down ethic that teaches other first and us second? And how in the world do we get our churches to turn off the political pundits and spend more time living out the Greatest Commands and the Great Commission?
Teacher:
Jeff Hubbard

Preparing for Conversations About Sex with Young Adults - Dori Lansbach May 03, 2024

Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family. Sex is a pervasive topic in our society and a very relevant issue for young adults. Statistics show dishearteningly high rates of unmarried young adults and teens are sexually active. Young adults need a safe place to talk about sexual issues, and they need adults in their lives who are willing to talk, listen, understand, and guide. There is so much in our culture that is untrue about sex. God has given us a beautiful gift in our sexuality, and we need to talk about how He does want us to use this gift. Join us as we discuss helpful ways to talk about sex in a way that young adults are likely to hear and understand.
Teacher:
Dori Lansbach

To Fear or Not to Fear? - Kindy DeLong May 03, 2024

Jesus' teaching on fear and worry in Luke 12
Teacher:
Kindy DeLong

A Beautiful Resistance: Resilient Discipleship in a Secular Age - Jonathan Storment May 03, 2024

Teacher:
Jonathan Storment

Spiritual Blind Spots - Brad Cox May 03, 2024

How to be a leader in a valley of dry bones.
Teacher:
Brad Cox

Carrying Weariness - Ben Fike May 03, 2024

Have the past few years left you not just tired, but weary? Me too! Let’s talk about it.
Teacher:
Ben Fike

Suffer Well... Hebrews 5:7-10 - Alvin Edington May 03, 2024

"We must learn to suffer what we cannot evade; our life, like the harmony of the world, is composed of contrary things, and one part is no less necessary than the other." ~Michel de Montaigne In a world filled with suffering, one may feel it unfair or unnecessary to go through life's turmoils. Maybe it's a terminally ill loved one. Perhaps you feel that systemic conditions have unfairly burdened your life. Why did your marriage dissolve? How is it that your beautiful kids have turned to substance abuse? When will this grief stop? Is there a purpose in our pain? As believers, we must allow the Word to inform our worldview when the world around us makes no sense. In this session, we will look at what it means to Suffer Well.
Teacher:
Alvin Edington

Perspective for Those Who Wonder if They’ve Wasted Their Life - Jason Pagel May 03, 2024

In a letter addressed to Robert Hooker in 1675, Isaac Newton wrote what became one of his most famous statements, “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” Whether we care to admit it or not, we are who we are due in large part to those who have come before us. Some of them we can picture. Others we can name, though having never seen their faces, even in a photograph. Then there are the rest, the majority, whose names and faces we never knew. Their impact endures in us even when we can’t remember them. It's humbling to think that one day we will be just like them…forgotten. But there is a name that will never be lost to the turning pages of history. It is the name that is above every other name.
Teacher:
Jason Pagel

Don’t Give Up: How COVID, a Flood, and a Family Trauma Nearly Took Me Out and how the Lord Held Me Together - Summer Morris May 03, 2024

If you feel you have been put through the wringer and nearly given up and you would like to know you are not alone, join me as I share my story of falling and getting back up again.
Teacher:
Summer Morris

Love Your Enemies: Christian Faith and Political Violence (Part 2) - Victor McCracken May 03, 2024

Is it possible for followers of Jesus to reconcile faith with the violence of war? In this class, Dr. Vic McCracken will lead attendees through an exploration of the Christian tradition, exploring the church's nonviolent witness as well as the development of the Christian just war tradition.
Teacher:
Victor McCracken

Knowing What You Are Getting Into: An Effective Pre-Membership Class - Buddy Bell May 03, 2024

Come explore the benefits of having a required class before membership and how to conduct it.
Teacher:
Buddy Bell

A Word About Disgrace: Heb. 13:9-13 - Jenn Gash May 03, 2024

Teacher:
Jenn Gash

Fundamentos de Cuidado Pastoral | Foundations of Pastoral Care - Alejandro Ezquerra May 03, 2024

En esta presentación, Alejandro Ezquerra explorará los elementos y habilidades que deben desarrollar aquellos interesados en proveer cuidado pastoral en la iglesia, en el hospital o en cualquier circunstancia. In this talk, Alejandro Ezquerra will introduce some Clinical Pastoral Education elements and practices to ministers and people interested in developing better skills to minister in times of crisis.
Teacher:
Alejandro Ezquerra

Can Old News Be Good News? - David Ayres May 03, 2024

Every week, preachers face the pressure of coming up with something new to say about a book that has been talked about for 2000 years. Originality is an essential element for effective communication – but what can we possibly say that hasn’t already been said before? In this class, we will explore how and why good preaching endeavors to gain a fresh hearing for an old, old story.
Teacher:
David Ayres

Sharp Sword: Psalms as the Voice of the Spirit in Hebrews (Part 2) - Bobby Valentine May 02, 2024

The Sermon to the Hebrews begins by telling us that God spoke in the prophets and today speaks in the Son. The Son, and the Spirit, continue to speak. The sermon claims that Jesus, and the Spirit, is speaking in the Psalms. We will explore Hebrews “sharp sword” which is none other than Jesus and the Spirit speaking in the Psalms, Today.
Teacher:
Bobby Valentine

Helping Marriages Flourish - Dee Dee Mayer May 02, 2024

Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family. One of the most powerful and transformative relationships we will ever have is the covenant relationship of marriage. God designed something special and sacred in marriage as a gift, and yet marriage can be difficult and painful. As human beings, it is easy to grow apart rather than together as we work through the struggles of life, family, and ministry. Research shows that marriage enhances economic wellbeing, improves health, and increases longevity. So how can we build our marriages to be places of deep connection and peace? Join Dee Dee Mayer, DMin, LCSW in this powerful workshop designed to restore your vision of healthy marriage with practical steps to build intimacy and connection.
Teacher:
Dee Dee Mayer

The Best Story They’ve (N)ever Heard: Rediscovering the Beauty of Basic Christian Beliefs - Josh Strahan May 02, 2024

Over the last several years working with college students and teaching adult Sunday School classes, I’ve been saddened by the large number of Christians who cannot articulate the basics of their faith. They may know several Bible stories and carry around a generic ethic of “love others,” but they don't know what the essentials of the Christian faith are. Because of this, they are unaware of how these basic beliefs should inform their daily lives; they don't realize how these essential beliefs offer a distinct perspective on the world; and they find themselves unable to share with others why Christianity is so incredibly compelling. In this session, I hope we can see anew the unique hope and beauty and life found in core Christian convictions.
Teacher:
Josh Strahan

From “This I Know” to “You Are My All in All”: Jesus and Children Together - Shannon Rains May 02, 2024

The relationship between Jesus and children is the topic of sermons and deep theological papers. It’s been imagined through art and is joyfully described in time-worn songs. While our society clamors for the attention of our children, this workshop will provide practical ways of leading children into life with Christ.
Teacher:
Shannon Rains

Teach Us to Pray: Raising a Generation Who Love to Spend Time with God - Taylor Walling May 02, 2024

The disciples asked Jesus to teach them how to pray. Kids and students today may not sound like the apostles, but the next generation is hungry for spiritual experiences. In this class we'll reinvestigate the example of Jesus, rediscover prayer practices worth passing on, and restore the priority prayer should have among God's people now and in the days to come.
Teacher:
Taylor Walling

Seeking Leaders With Christlike Hearts - Bryan Fojtasek May 02, 2024

What does it take to be an effective leader in a local church, nonprofit, or ministry environment? This is a question that countless churches have wrestled with, whether it's in the context of recruiting volunteers to serve in existing ministries, installing elders to shepherd the congregation, or searching for new ministers to love and lead the church. This class will explore a simple but essential truth from God’s Word: The best leaders strive to have a heart like Jesus did, because who we are on the inside will always be more important than what we do on the outside. The goal of this class will be to give existing leaders a roadmap on how to love and lead like Jesus did, as well as give churches some important principles to keep in mind as they think about recruiting new leaders to serve their congregations. We’ll be incorporating some key passages from the Bible and recommending some great resources that explain why churches sometimes gravitate towards toxic leaders—and how to avoid making that same mistake in your congregations.
Teacher:
Bryan Fojtasek

IMAGE - Carlos Isaziga May 02, 2024

Humanity is captivated by the aesthetics of our world. What captures the eyes usually captures the heart. Images flood our minds and hearts through multiple channels. So what do we do when the IMAGE of God has been distorted? Why have we opted for creation rather than the creator? This distorted image of God forms an image of ourselves, others and the way we see the world. Can we recapture & repaint the beauty of who God is?
Teacher:
Carlos Isaziga

Ministering Away from Fundamentalism - Adam Matthews May 02, 2024

Fundamentalism is a reactionary phenomenon informing believers of every religion around the world. So, what is it? What fruit has it borne? And how should an understanding of fundamentalism change our ministry, especially preaching? In this session we’ll briefly discuss fundamentalism, what it is, where it comes from, how it has shaped Christian’s interpretation of the Bible, behavior, and rhetoric, and what should change in the future.
Teacher:
Adam Matthews

Raising Resilience: A Framework for Ministers for Themselves and their Congregations - Connie Horton May 02, 2024

Ministry is tough! It's critical that ministers attend to their own resilience as well as have a framework and tools that can help them support their congregations in being resilient in challenging times. Pepperdine's RISE program will be shared and possible applications from parenting workshops, youth ministry, adult classes, sermons, and pastoral conversations will be suggested.
Teacher:
Connie Horton

Love Requires Words: Sharing Faith in 21st Century America (Part 2) - Neil Reynolds May 02, 2024

This class includes a hybrid of teaching and panel discussion exploring the virtue of sharing Christ with our neighbors.
Teacher:
Neil Reynolds
Panelists:

A Leadership for the Ages of the Church (Part 2) - John Boyles May 02, 2024

Part 2 of this class considers how the historical lives of Christians and the leadership can inform our own consideration about leadership in the church today. After a brief review of the results from part one and surveying some exemplary trends in church history, we will focus our attention on the particular context of the Church in the US to consider how the past provides wisdom for our present leadership needs.
Teacher:
John Boyles

The Quality of Mercy: Six Stories of Ordinary Saints, Extraordinary Mercy, and the Search for a Theology of Beauty (Part 2) - Leonard Allen, Darryl Tippens May 02, 2024

You will recognize the characters in these six stories; you will smile, laugh, and feel some of the grief along the way. And you will get glimpses into the varied texture of our lives—the unexpected people who bless us, the desert experiences, the need for forgiveness, the gifts along the way, the surprises of grace.
Teachers:
Leonard Allen, Darryl Tippens

Wanting What God Wants - Jarrod Robinson May 02, 2024

What would it mean for us to become more and more like Jesus—not based primarily on our behaviors—but instead flowing from our deepest desires? What if we learned how to want what God wants? For us? For the people around us?
Teacher:
Jarrod Robinson

Except in Parables: The Mystery of the Parables of Jesus - Mark Manassee May 02, 2024

It is said Jesus did not speak "except in parables.” The parables are part of what made Jesus a master teacher. This class will discuss the nature of parables, how they hide and reveal, and how one might teach or preach from the parables.
Teacher:
Mark Manassee

The Restoration Collective - Pat Bills May 02, 2024

Discouraged? Weary of hearing how our churches are shrinking, aging, and becoming irrelevant? Come hear why we believe there can be hope for the future of our tribe. And hear how you can be a part of this exciting movement.
Teacher:
Pat Bills
Panelists:
Jovan Barrington, Cyntha Ownby, Doug Page

Practicing Theological Attentiveness in Preaching (Part 2) - Sara Barton, Ahmi Lee May 02, 2024

How do you preach sermons that are authentic, biblical, and culturally sensitive? Drawing from Lee’s book, Preaching God’s Grand Drama, this session explores practices of attentiveness that ground sermons in biblical theology, local context, and global realities.
Teachers:
Sara Barton, Ahmi Lee

Real Life Discipleship - Jonathan Storment May 02, 2024

The past few years have been a wake-up call for the American church. From the New York Times to the Atlantic to the Washington Post people on the outside of church are rightfully pointing out that American churches are more “sociological than Christological.” That’s a fancy way of saying American Christianity appears to be hollow . . . there’s nothing really there. People on the inside of churches are just as materialistic, politically idolatrous, misogynistic, and racist as people on the outside (sometimes even more so!). Churches of Christ have a history of failing to keep the main thing the main thing. From focusing on worship styles and forms to demonizing other churches in town we have historically often failed to reach out to new people and to disciple the people in our pews in the actual ways of Jesus. In order for our churches to flourish, in order for our cities to have a fair chance to see the real Jesus, we need to go deeper in the ways of discipleship that Jesus actually gave us. “Real Life Discipleship” will be a call to keep the center of the Gospel the main thing, with practical tools and training for how to implement a more robust form of discipleship in our churches.
Teacher:
Jonathan Storment

Comeback Churches - Jon Reed and Kevin Withem May 02, 2024

Hope for renewal and revival for churches that are small or stuck
Teachers:
Jon Reed, Kevin Withem

Becoming Love - Kevin Knight May 02, 2024

A few years ago, I confessed to a friend, "I get jealous when I hear others say they married their best friend, because I didn't." In the same conversation I challenged us both to learn to love our wives better. What resulted was a year of Jesus teaching me how I could be more loving. I also learned in the process that my jealousy was based on a false assumption. Let's discuss some of what I learned!
Teacher:
Kevin Knight

Nurturing Compassion for Young People in Your Congregation - Kyle Williams May 02, 2024

The studies have shown for decades the uptick in young people leaving the Church after high school. Many churches have struggled to respond to the shifting topography of culture and identity. Perhaps what is needed most are churches that are truly investing in their young people and passing on a faith built on compassion, not doctrine alone. But where to begin? If you are struggling to help your congregation to journey with and mentor young people, this session will offer some helpful ideas and conversation.
Teacher:
Kyle Williams

Homegrown Staff: Finding Ministers in Your Own Congregation - Caleb Borchers May 02, 2024

For many congregations, finding the right individuals to serve on their ministry staff is a difficult season that involves a broad search and interview process. But what if God is growing your staff within your own community? In this class we will explore the ways developing future ministry staff from within a congregation can be done, the theological and practical reasons to do it, and share how our own church has thrived through such an experience. We will realistically tackle the challenges and blessings. As churches confront budgetary challenges and preacher shortages, this process may become an essential way to find more workers for the harvest.
Teacher:
Caleb Borchers

Harry Potter, Hobbits, and Holiness: A Humble Journey with God - Joe Neal May 02, 2024

We are all on epic quest for truth and justice. Unfortunately, we too often forget ourselves among the hazardous obstacles and tantalizing temptations along the way. The struggle of pride and power overtake us. We long to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. We long to be heroes who are clothed in humility. How can we get back on the righteous path and fulfill what God requires of us? In this lecture, we will explore the topic of humility by examining epic stories illustrating the struggle between good and evil. We will put our trust in the example of Jesus and learn specific exercises on how to grow downward in holiness.
Teacher:
Joe Neal

Eroding Skepticism - Chess Cavitt May 02, 2024

Hebrews calls us to believe in the unseen while the skepticism of society beckons us to doubt everything. We scoff at reports of aliens, Bigfoot, and Nessy, but on Sundays we proclaim belief in giants, leviathan, miracles, and resurrection from the dead. Christians live in the tension between faith in God and skepticism toward just about everything else, or have we let the skepticism of the world slowly erode our faith? How deeply has our skepticism and disbelief affected our ability to have faith in God?
Teacher:
Chess Cavitt

A Stumbling Horse: Running with Perseverance (or Why I Stayed) - Jeff Dunn May 02, 2024

Growing up in churches of Christ and eventually ministering within churches of Christ requires perseverance. Jeff offers an intensely autobiographical journey highlighting the reasons that he continues to serve as a minister and his hope for the future.
Teacher:
Jeff Dunn

“Election” Meets Election: How the Theology of Romans Can Shape your Church’s Approach to Politics - Phil Brookman May 02, 2024

Most Christians I know are dreading this fall’s presidential election. “It’s going to be bad.” “We’re going to lose friends.” “I’m worried about my church.” “The world is going to fall apart if the other team wins.” How might the apostle Paul coach a church entering in this season? By taking a careful look at how Paul approached the fault lines threatening to fracture the Christians in Rome (with special attention to Romans 14), this class will offer a positive vision for how a church might proactively engage the election season as an opportunity to be a “disruptive witness” in a saturated market of rage.
Teacher:
Phil Brookman

Ephesians 6:4–Exasperation vs Nurturing - John Philip and Karen Louis May 02, 2024

Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family
Teachers:
John Philip and Karen Louis

What Story Are You In? Reframing Worship as Counter-Formation - James K.A. Smith May 02, 2024

When we appreciate that human beings are lovers, and that our loves are shaped by rituals and routines—“liturgies”—then we should recognize afresh what is at stake in the practices of Christian worship. This session will explore the ways in which worship is the heart of discipleship and how we can be intentional in creating (re)formative worship environments.
Teacher:
James K.A. Smith

The Deepest Place (Part 2) - Luke Norsworthy, Curt Thompson, MD May 02, 2024

Psychiatrist and award-winning author Curt Thompson, along with Luke Norsworthy, will discuss God's transforming work of taking our grief into a lasting peace that surpasses all understanding. Suffering is a defining reality of life. Yet so many of us are so focused on avoiding discomfort that we've never learned how to actually suffer. But what if we could move from anxiety to durable hope? This is a two-part series.
Teachers:
Luke Norsworthy, Curt Thompson, MD

Love Your Enemies: Christian Faith and Political Violence (Part 1) - Victor McCraken May 02, 2024

Is it possible for followers of Jesus to reconcile faith with the violence of war? In this class, Dr. Vic McCracken will lead attendees through an exploration of the Christian tradition, exploring the church's nonviolent witness as well as the development of the Christian just war tradition.
Teacher:
Victor McCraken

“A Land I Will Show You:” A Spiritual Reading of Genesis - Dave Lemley May 02, 2024

Teacher:
Dave Lemley

Redefining Power in the Local Church: Kenosis and the Cultivation of Healthy Egalitarian Church Culture - Cheryl Russell May 02, 2024

This class will delve into how a church in North Texas is embracing kenosis to cultivate a healthy egalitarian church culture. By focusing on how Jesus viewed and used power, we will explore how a healthy understanding and utilization of power and privilege can help a local church to flourish, nurture collaborative leadership, deeper community engagement, and a culture in which every member is valued, empowered, and encouraged to participate fully in the life of the community.
Teacher:
Cheryl Russell

Faithful Presence: The Impact of the Local Church - Toby Hendrix May 02, 2024

This class will explore the impact of the local church, especially as it senses how God is using it to reach these people in this place at this time. In an age where we are more globally connected than ever, God still works powerfully through local communities of faith. Come be encouraged to consider what God is up to in your local community and to join in!
Teacher:
Toby Hendrix

Entering the Rest of God - Hannah Parmelee May 02, 2024

The promise to enter the rest of God is still open (Hebrews 4:1). The question is, will we be obedient to enter it? This class will invite long time Christ followers to move more deeply into God's rest. There are many obstacles to resting with God, let's take an honest look at what is stopping us and look ahead to what God longs to give us. "Let us therefore make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one my fall through such disobedience as theirs" (Hebrews 4:11).
Teacher:
Hannah Parmelee

Preacher Count: A Conversation About Identity and Measuring What Matters - Jeff Brown May 02, 2024

The phrase, "preacher count," betrays the chronic struggle most Christian leaders have with identity and measuring ministry. Perhaps, like me, you cringe at models that evaluate all things based on the three "b's" (butts in seats, budget, and building size). Does this mean we don't measure anything? Measure other things? Do I simply not like these measurements because they reflect poorly on me? What is the difference between "successful" and faithful? This class is an exploration of healthier ways of measuring what matters.
Teacher:
Jeff Brown

Creating a Culture Where Questions Are Allowed - Doug Page May 02, 2024

We live in a world full of big questions. Does faith matter? What do I do with my doubts? On top of this - there are so many big conversations happening in our culture. Conversations about sexuality, race, gender, immigration, and more. Many in our churches are wondering, “Where can I go to have discussions about these things? And why is it that church is often the last place where these discussions happen?” Come hear about one church’s journey toward creating an atmosphere for open dialogue and conversation where no topic is off limits.
Teacher:
Doug Page

Reflections on Identity from the In-Between - Zac Luben May 02, 2024

Identity matters in our culture, and identity is complicated. In this class, Zac will reflect on identity from the in-between location he inhabits as a Korean American adoptee and a Christian minister. Zac will suggest that the church can and should learn from those who inhabit the in-between spaces in U.S. culture as it moves forward in the 21st century.
Teacher:
Zac Luben

A Simpleton’s Musings on Luke 15 and the Church - Brendin Williamson May 02, 2024

Through a year and a half of attempting to plant a church at a state university in one of the most unchurched cities in America, some deep reflections on what it means to be a disciple of Jesus that truly engages those on the margins has emerged. This has given rise to some simple, yet transformative ideas about the hurdles churches so often unintentionally put up for those who need to engage God in our midst. This class is a humble presentation of the truths I have discovered while serving in the spaces where God’s love and the skepticism and pain of the world collide and the kind of faith community that results from this collision.
Teacher:
Brendin Williamson

Welcome Home! First Time Guest To Family Member - Dan Burgess May 02, 2024

Helping first time guests feel at home can be challenging, but it’s so worth it. Join me as we discuss the importance of stewarding the vulnerabilities of guests in a loving way while setting clear expectations about what being a church family member looks like. A vital component of this process is allowing every guest considering placing membership to feel seen and heard by sharing their story with someone in some way. Let’s talk through best practices of being a welcoming church and learn from the mistakes and successes we’ve encountered walking with others. This class will involve group discussion.
Teacher:
Dan Burgess

Off-Ended: The Trap Of Being Easily Offended - Chris Seidman May 02, 2024

Teacher:
Chris Seidman

A Word About Submission. Heb. 5:7-10 - Zane Witcher May 02, 2024

Speaker:
Zane Witcher

Monkey Science - Janet Kellogg Ray, Jessica Knapp May 02, 2024

Evolution was the science that first offended, but in fighting against evolution for so long, evangelicals developed a whole way of talking about science. We will explore factors that lead Christians to shun science evidence and expertise in favor of emotion and partisan sentiments. Why did so many Christians resist covid precautions and vaccines, yet will gladly take an aspirin for a headache? Why do so many Christians deny the science of climate change, but trust science when they board an airplane? This workshop will explore the political and religious drama that got us to where we are today. Ultimately, the challenge is to live as people of faith in a modern scientific world. We will also hear from Jessica Knapp, campus minister at the University of Arizona.
Teachers:
Janet Kellogg Ray, Jessica Knapp

Revitalizing Churches: Reaching our Unchristian Neighbors with Alpha - Michelle Tepper and Jonathan Storment May 02, 2024

Hosted by Jonathan Storment. Explore Alpha. How to create a safe space for people from outside the church to discover and develop a relationship with Jesus, while cultivating within the current church members a culture of invitation, hospitality, listening, and dependence on the Holy Spirit.

Teacher:
Michelle Tepper

Host:
Jonathan Storment

Communicating Creatively and Compassionately to a Doubting Generation - Jeff Walling May 02, 2024

"Join seasoned communicators Sean Palmer, Don McLaughlin, Jeff Walling and other special guests to discuss the challenge of communicating creatively to a generation that is questioning everything like never before. Full-time and volunteer youth workers are invited to gain insight and encouragement, for the most important task of all: passing the baton of faith to the next generation.
Teacher:
Jeff Walling
"

Heritage21: Renew! Repurpose! Replant! - Doug Peters May 01, 2024

Churches have Lifecycles - just like the people that comprise them. Some are in need of Renewal. Others may not see a future and need to be good stewards as they Repurpose their kingdom resources to help Replant for the future. Heritage21 is ready to serve!
Teacher:
Doug Peters

Sharp Sword: The Psalms as the Voice of Jesus in Hebrews (Part 1) - Bobby Valentine May 01, 2024

The Sermon to the Hebrews begins by telling us that God spoke in the prophets and today speaks in the Son. The Son, and the Spirit, continue to speak. The sermon claims that Jesus, and the Spirit, is speaking in the Psalms. We will explore Hebrews “sharp sword” which is none other than Jesus and the Spirit speaking in the Psalms, Today.
Teacher:
Bobby Valentine

Faithful Words, Faithful Actions: Embracing Four Biblical Principles for Transformative Living - Sean Palmer, John Alan Turner May 01, 2024

Join Executive Coach John Alan Turner and Sean Palmer, acclaimed teaching pastor at Ecclesia Church in Houston, TX, for a compelling session at Pepperdine University's Harbor. In "Faithful Words, Faithful Actions," we delve deep into the heart of Christian living, reimagining the wisdom of 'The Four Agreements' through the lens of Scripture. This session offers a refreshing perspective on using our words, assumptions, personal reflections, and actions to not just navigate, but thrive in our spiritual and communal lives. Drawing on their rich experiences and theological insights, John and Sean invite you on a journey to explore how timeless biblical truths can be lived out with authenticity and passion in today's world. Perfect for those seeking to deepen their faith walk, this session promises to be an enlightening blend of practical wisdom, spiritual depth, and engaging discussion.
Teachers:
Sean Palmer, John Alan Turner

Who’s in Your Cloud? - Jeff Brooks May 01, 2024

Everyone needs a cheering section. Who are the people in your life that have made an indelible imprint on your heart? Friends, teachers, coaches, camp counselors, and teammates. A nosy neighbor or a devoted grandmother. Through prayers, tears, and cheers,their faith kindled yours. What can you learn from the "Heroes of Faith" and how can you live like one?
Teacher:
Jeff Brooks

The Gospel According to the Trinity - Nick Perez May 01, 2024

Churches of Christ and the Restoration Movement generally have had a nip/tuck relationship with the Trinity historically. This class will affirm the orthodox trinitarian assumptions within churches of Christ. Then work will be done to situate the gospel within a trinitarian framework with special attention given to Hebrews 9.14.
Teacher:
Nick Perez

God’s Pursuit of Love Through Loss, Grief, and Disappointment - Ghavinn Crutcher May 01, 2024

Have you ever felt like life has left you feeling like you can’t catch a break? You keep experiencing loss after loss, whether it is from losing loved ones or experiencing disappointments that you are having a hard time shaking, If this sounds familiar I want you to know that you are not alone. There is some hope and good news, scripture shows us that through all of our hurts, God still pursues us, he still finds ways to let us know that we have purpose and that when we allow ourselves to see him in the struggle that there is also room for joy in our lament.
Teacher:
Ghavinn Crutcher

There Is No Finish Line - What Running Marathons Has Taught Me about Life, Leadership, and Following Jesus - Lars Coburn May 01, 2024

I love running with my neighbors in Track Town USA. Five marathons later, you could say I’ve been assimilated into the “runners religion.” ⁣Every race comes with the anticipation for the next mile marker, the next aid station, the next smile, the next “you got this,” and the next familiar friend cheering you on. ⁣It’s painful to push through cramps and sore muscles. It takes dedication to place one foot in front of the other for another mile. You can’t pretend in a marathon. It exacts a toll. ⁣Perhaps, like me, you’ve hit a wall. It’s mile 14, and you’re collapsing, or muscles are seizing up, and you just hope to finish.⁣ I only finished #2 & #3 because I chose to lay down and do some stretches mid-race and because my wife was there to cheer me on when I was ready to give up. ⁣True humility is gained from the curbs of life when our pride and independence fail us. Life and leadership involves pushing through more than 26.2 miles - remember, just like the old Nike slogan goes: there is no finish line.⁣
Teacher:
Lars Coburn

Helping Millennials Thrive - Stanley Winters May 01, 2024

Millennials are facing crisis in four defining areas of life: Relationships, Mental Health, Meaning and Purpose and Faith, let’s help the next generation experience all God has for them.
Teacher:
Stanley Winters

Inspirational Women of Faith…the Light on my Path - Sara Young Jackson May 01, 2024

As we study the great heroes of the faith in the book of Hebrews, this class will focus on the women of the Bible who both inspire and challenge us. There are great examples of women whose lives demonstrated deep faith, perseverance, hope, confidence, and courage in the midst of trials. We will also look at the “great cloud of witnesses” that surround us. Women we have known in our lifetime who have inspired us to live, “by faith”. Come prepared to share with others in the class the women who inspire you!
Teacher:
Sara Young Jackson

Preventing the 2020 Relational Wars - Chris Goldman May 01, 2024

How this election cycle can either make or break many relationships.
Teacher:
Chris Goldman

7 Crucial Principles for Congregational Discipleship - Tod Vogt May 01, 2024

Join us to explore 7 crucial principles for anyone wishing to lead congregational discipleship. The workshop will be split between leadership principles and basic discipleship principles. These principles will give you a solid handle on how to lead a discipleship ministry for your church. For example, learn the Irrigation Principle, the Jazz Principle, and the Vanguard Principle. All of these will help your discipleship ministry bear Kingdom fruit!
Teacher:
Tod Vogt

Building an Intergenerational Church - Stacy Jones May 01, 2024

In this class we will explore the nuances of the cross-generational, multi-generational, and intergenerational church classifications. We will seek to establish the framework for a theology of intergeneration as well as explore what many church congregations need to consider for their long term survival.
Teacher:
Stacy Jones

What Must I Do to Inherit? - Tim Willis May 01, 2024

One part of the gospel message that often flies under the radar is the topic of inheritance. In this class we will snoop around that topic a bit, looking at the history behind expressions like "inherit eternal life," "children of Abraham," "heirs of the promise," "heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ," and others that inform how we understand our identity as Christians.
Teacher:
Tim Willis

Remembering Tom Olbricht (November 3, 1929 - August 21, 2020) - Jerry Rushford May 01, 2024

Teacher:
Jerry Rushford

A Leadership for the Ages of the Church (Part 1) - John Boyles May 01, 2024

Part One of this class explores the historical setting and context for the leadership characteristics listed in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. We will consider the lives of early Christians in their ancient societies as well as their communal life together in order to better understand the kinds of virtues that emerge as essential for leaders in the community.
Teacher:
John Boyles

If a Man Dies, Shall He Live Again? - Allen Wei Jang May 01, 2024

(Job 14:1, Hebrews 2:14-15) A search through culture and time for the "unknown god."
Teacher:
Allen Wei Jang

Forgotten Scriptures, and Why They Matter - Nick Zola May 01, 2024

We all know the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11: Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Rahab, etc. But who are the people who “were tortured, refusing to accept release, in order to obtain a better resurrection” (Heb 11:35)? Come learn about the martyrs of 2 Maccabees 6-7 and other “forgotten scriptures” that inspired early Christians to persevere in their faith.
Teacher:
Nick Zola

”Love was His Meaning”: The Theology of Julian of Norwich for Today - Candace Nicolds May 01, 2024

In the fourteenth century, the woman known as Julian of Norwich received a series of sixteen visions which she recorded in the book, Revelations of Divine Love. Twenty years after this mystical experience, Julian wrote an expanded version of her revelations that included her meditations on the visions in the years after they occurred. In this class, we will take a brief look at Julian's theology based on her writings and consider whether it has any relevance for today.
Teacher:
Candace Nicolds

Don’t Hit Snooze: 4 Stories to Wake Up Your Students’ Faith - Joel Foster May 01, 2024

Crafting a robust biblical youth ministry can often leave our students feeling like the stories we share are detached, useless, or not all that relevant to their current lives. In this class, we will explore 4 themes from stories in the Hebrew and Christian scriptures that can reorient our students to a deeper and more beautiful faith that draws them to better love God, love others, and love themselves.
Teacher:
Joel Foster

Love Requires Words: Sharing Faith in 21st Century America (Part 1) - Neil Reynolds May 01, 2024

This class includes a hybrid of teaching and panel discussion exploring the virtue of sharing Christ with our neighbors.
Teacher:
Neil Reynolds
Panelists:
Bruce Bates, Graham Clifford, Bri Clifford, Scott Lambert, and Doug Peters

Spiritual Life: More Than a Brain on a Stick - Katelyn Brackney May 01, 2024

We are often told our bodies are a problem to solve or a hindrance to overcome, but there is another story. A better story. This story is one in which humans are invited to embrace our whole selves—including our minds, hearts, souls, and bodies—as created good and in God’s own image. Together, we will look at the Bible and theology to embrace a more holistic and embodied spiritual life shaped by the story of God from Genesis through the life of Christ.
Teacher:
Katelyn Brackney

The Quality of Mercy: Six Stories of Ordinary Saints, Extraordinary Mercy, and the Search for a Theology of Beauty (Part 1) - Leonard Allen, Darryl Tippens May 01, 2024

You will recognize the characters in these six stories; you will smile, laugh, and feel some of the grief along the way. And you will get glimpses into the varied texture of our lives—the unexpected people who bless us, the desert experiences, the need for forgiveness, the gifts along the way, the surprises of grace.
Teachers:
Leonard Allen, Darryl Tippens

Alone and Amused to Death - Shane Hughes May 01, 2024

Two cultural currents in America are colliding: an epidemic of loneliness and highly refined, psychologically attuned algorithms designed to keep our attention through dopamine manipulation for hours. The solution may come from an unexpected place- the willful intent to become bored. Join us as we explore boredom as the means of freedom from the tyranny of slavery to screens.
Teacher:
Shane Hughes

Reimagining Church and Church Leadership for a New Era - Jason Locke May 01, 2024

In this one-hour class, Jason Locke will help participants imagine new ways of doing church in our changing world. While most churches clearly need traditional forms of gathering for worship, along with traditional forms of administration and pastoral leadership, how can churches actually make Christianity relevant to people who will never walk in the doors of a church building? How might we create new forms of Christian community and lead innovative teams to reach non-church-goers with the good news of Jesus? This session will look at concrete ideas for how to break out of existing frameworks.
Teacher:
Jason Locke

Practicing Theological Attentiveness in Preaching (Part 1) - Sara Barton, Ahmi Lee May 01, 2024

How do you preach sermons that are authentic, biblical, and culturally sensitive? Drawing from Lee’s book, Preaching God’s Grand Drama, this session explores practices of attentiveness that ground sermons in biblical theology, local context, and global realities.
Teachers:
Sara Barton, Ahmi Lee

Restoring Restoration: The Compelling Vision of Churches of Christ - Don McLaughlin May 01, 2024

Religion should come with a warning: promise and peril lie ahead! Some of the most beautiful stories in global history emerge from deep religious traditions. We also know the past and current horror of weaponized faith. The genius and passion of any movement remain vulnerable as faith is passed from one generation to the next, and Churches of Christ are no exception. In this session we will explore the promise, peril, genius, and passion of the American Restoration Movement and the Churches of Christ.
Teacher:
Don McLaughlin

Running in a Dry Place: Lessons from Hebrews for Racing in the Desert (Part 1) - Jeff Walling May 01, 2024

How do you keep running when you are dry, parched and tired? There are lessons in the desert we will never learn while running in the park. Come take a lap with Israel to find hope among miracles, mistakes and mourning.
Teacher:
Jeff Walling

Lessons Learned as a Physician-Servant - Terry "Hutch" Hutchison May 01, 2024

Learning to evaluate others and yourself objectively is necessary as a physician and also as an elder. Putting others before yourself needs some boundaries, but it is the basis for compassion. A position of authority requires lots of study, but with the understanding that one can never attain perfection. We depend on God, but this cannot excuse a lack of diligence. We must be open and honest about our opinions and what they are based on. God is immanent and active in this world but expects us, his servants, to minister to each other and to our neighbors. In so doing we bring God’s answer to prayers, and his salvation, to the world.
Teacher:
Terry "Hutch" Hutchison

The Deepest Place (Part 1) - Luke Norsworthy, Curt Thompson, MD May 01, 2024

Psychiatrist and award-winning author Curt Thompson, along with Luke Norsworthy, will discuss God's transforming work of taking our grief into a lasting peace that surpasses all understanding. Suffering is a defining reality of life. Yet so many of us are so focused on avoiding discomfort that we've never learned how to actually suffer. But what if we could move from anxiety to durable hope? This is a two-part series.
Teachers:
Luke Norsworthy, Curt Thompson, MD

What Is Truth? (John 18:37-39) - Donny Pierre May 01, 2024

Some people believe truth is relative, others believe truth to be absolute, why? Who or what can we trust to know the truth today? Can we trust science, politics, academia, media, the bible or the Church? Once we believe we know the truth, how does that influence how we act or not?
Teacher:
Donny Pierre

Overcoming Toxic Leadership and Healing the Wounds Left Behind - Gregg Marutzky May 01, 2024

James 3:13-18 describes leadership from above and leadership from below. True leadership is from above and toxic leadership is from below. Toxic leadership thrives in the toxic triangle of unaccountable environments, authoritarian leaders, and susceptible followers. Gregg proposes a tutelary triangle of accountable contexts, inclusive leaders, and courageous followers to combat toxicity in organizations. As a minister and therapist, Gregg offers research regarding healing wounds from leadership. This presentation will offer insights to leading in the 21st century in our churches in the midst of rapid change and increasing challenges.
Teacher:
Gregg Marutzky

Liminal Faith: When the Story Feels Unfinished - Lori Ann Wood May 01, 2024

Is it possible to increase your faith when life isn’t turning out the way you’d imagined and prayed for? The truth is, Scripture shows us that our lives are part of God’s much bigger story, and may not feel complete or resolved in our lifetime. Lori Ann Wood is a lifelong Christian, a heart failure survivor, and multi-award-winning author of Divine Detour: The Path You’d Never Choose Can Lead to the Faith You’ve Always Wanted. She’ll explore the challenge of maintaining—and even growing—faith in the middle of a difficult narrative. If you’re traveling a detour you never saw coming or living a story you didn’t want (or if you love someone who is), her experience and insight will leave you with renewed hope and practical steps forward.
Teacher:
Lori Ann Wood

Your Church Needs a Renewal Team! - Judy and Woody Square May 01, 2024

What could you accomplish at your congregation with a team made up of representatives of every age group, gender, ethnicity, and walk of life? Part focus group, part think tank, part advisory board, the Renewal Team at the San Leandro Church of Christ has been helping the congregation navigate change and challenge over the past 5 years. Learn the value of listening to the Holy Spirit speak through diverse voices in your congregation and trusting them to help lead your church into the future.
Teachers:
Judy and Woody Square

The Intentionality of the Church: Rethinking God’s Purpose and Our Role - Danny Quintero May 01, 2024

In this session we will be talking about the intentionality of the church (mostly as an institution). Should we meet exclusively to say a prayer, sing, take communion, give an offering, listen to a sermon, and go home? Do we know what our communities need? A midweek Bible study? Is that enough? Do we need to do something else or different? Let us analyze some ideas, ask ourselves questions, and reevaluate if our practices are what God expects of us, as well as what the world needs.
Teacher:
Danny Quintero
Panelishts:
Joel Foster, Lucas Hutchinson

The Gospel According to Being a Loser - Klint Pleasant May 01, 2024

As both a college basketball coach and theologian, Klint has had to balance a passion for "winning" with his identity as a Jesus follower. In a world in which the loudest voice and most passionate person tends to win the day, Jesus gives insight related to the formula for real winning; and it has very little to do with numbers and money. Let's take a fresh look and perspective related to the way of Jesus when it comes to "winning and losing." A class for anyone who has struggled and wrestled with the meaning of "success" within a Christian framework. Pleasant: a coach, student of the Enneagram, trauma survivor, and author/speaker shares insights related to the true pursuit of success according to Jesus.
Teacher:
Klint Pleasant

From Crossroads to Frontiers: Navigating Faith in a Post-Christian Landscape - Mike Shepherd May 01, 2024

Embark on a compelling journey with Mike Shepherd, a dual-citizen with a unique perspective on faith in diverse cultural narratives. This class invites those ready to explore the depths of belief in a post Christian landscape, seeking to harmonize ancient scriptural truths with the pulse of today's society, much like the exemplars of faith in the Hebrews Hall of Faith. In a world that often seems divided, how can we hold fast to our beliefs with compassion and love, becoming beacons of light rather than critics of culture? Mike's insights, born from a life lived at the intersection of Australian and American spiritual climates, offer a rich tapestry of understanding to his audience. In this engaging class, we will: Cultivate a nuanced understanding of spirituality that stands resilient amidst secular currents while radiating compassion and kindness. Foster a faith that is both vibrant and reflective, capable of engaging with the post-Christian landscape with authenticity, grace, and a heart for service. Join us for a session that promises not just to inform but to transform as we seek to navigate the frontiers of faith with intelligence, heart, and the spirit of Christ's love and adventure.
Teacher:
Mike Shepherd

RelateForward: Equipping Families for Generations of Faith - Kelly Haer and Dee Dee Mayer May 01, 2024

Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family. Faith in Jesus Christ is where an abundant life begins. And yet in this post-truth era, parents who yearn to see their children follow Jesus are struggling to pass their faith to the next generation. As the Barna Group’s research makes clear, “Christianity today has less influence on Gen Z than on any previous generation.” The Boone Center’s upcoming new program, RelateForward, will empower families and ministry leaders to meet the challenge of transferring faith to young people and help bring about God’s commitment to advance the Gospel to the next generation. Join us for an insightful discussion about how to empower families to transfer faith to children.
Teachers:
Kelly Haer and Dee Dee Mayer

You Might Not Love What You Think: Reading Cultural Liturgies - James K.A. Smith May 01, 2024

Spiritual formation is less about fueling the intellect and more about rehabituating our loves. Our loves are caught more than they are taught. Our hearts are apprenticed by practices that function as pedagogies of desire. But this is also how our loves are mal-formed and disoriented—trained to desire security, comfort, and domination rather than the shalom of God’s kingdom. This session will train us to recognize the “cultural liturgies” in which we swim.
Teacher:
James K.A. Smith

Preaching for Transformation - Wade Hodges May 01, 2024

The writers of Scripture seem to prioritize transformation over conveying information. What do sermons look and sound like when preachers do the same?
Teacher:
Wade Hodges

Coreology: Six Principles to Help Us Navigate an Election Season (Part 1) - Josh Ross May 01, 2024

This is not a conversation about issues. This is about the core of who we are as believers in Jesus. As Christians (and local churches) we must do better in how we live out our faith in the political climate we find ourselves in. Our witness is on the line. The best way to remain rooted throughout election years is to commit to principles that ground us in the heart of Christ.
Teacher:
Josh Ross

“By Faith”: A Space of Spiritual Practice from Hebrews - Cynthia Michaud Ownby May 01, 2024

Join us as we sit in the text of Hebrews 11 and make space to hear from God what it means for us, individually and communally, to also live by faith. Our time of prayer will be followed by discussion.
Teacher:
Cynthia Michaud Ownby

Persevering Passion: Lessons on Spiritual Zeal from George Whitefield - Lisa Smith May 01, 2024

Ever wish you could sit down with the famous eighteenth-century revivalist George Whitefield and learn his secrets for pursuing God over a lifetime with reckless love and abandon? Join Pepperdine University English professor Lisa Smith as she shares the surprising backstories of Whitefield’s most unique life events as well as his own words of passion for God from his personal journals, letters, and autobiography. The international preaching sensation who helped start the First Great Awakening will come alive in this presentation designed to encourage all followers of Jesus to live lives of passion and purpose.
Teacher:
Lisa Smith

Hope for the Church, While Grieving the Past - Dave Berry May 01, 2024

The church is declining in numbers, yet there is hope for the future. This class will examine material from several different sources and call on practical experience to help congregations grieve the past, while finding hope for the future. We will learn how to honor the past, live in the present and have hope for the future.
Teacher:
Dave Berry

Before You Quit - Jim Martin May 01, 2024

Sometimes we may become discouraged and be tempted to quit. This could be a marriage, a friendship, a ministry, or anything else that has been valuable in the past. This class will offer a few spiritual resources that may be helpful as you navigate these decisions
Teacher:
Jim Martin

Living the Exile Life - Robin Gough May 01, 2024

To be a Christian is to be an exile. We are citizens of a new kingdom. But for now, we are living as exiles in a foreign land. And the Bible has a name for the country we’ve been exiled to: Babylon. As exiles living in Babylon, we need to think biblically, Christianly, through cultural and political issues. But the problem is that we run the risk of looking just like Babylon. In this class, we will discuss ways we can disentangle our Babylonianism from our Christianity and live the exile life.
Teacher:
Robin Gough

All Ages Becoming: Leading Intergenerational Small Groups - Holly Allen May 01, 2024

As churches seek to become more intentionally intergenerational in outlook and practice, the first question that typically arises is, “How can we bring the generations together in a way that is spiritually rich for everyone?” This presentation will walk class participants through guidelines for an all-age small-group gathering that begins with an inviting (non-embarrassing) ice breaker, then moves to a transition that welcomes the presence of Jesus, engages Scripture in fresh age- inclusive ways, models household prayers, and closes with a blessing over the participants. The presentation draws from the authentic experiences of a church that implemented intergenerational small groups over the 2023-2024 calendar year. Participants will leave with two weeks of curriculum written for intergenerational small groups.
Teacher:
Holly Allen

Cats, Dogs, and Moving Day - Jack Williamson May 01, 2024

Adolescence is a time of transition in which almost everything is changing in the hearts, minds ,and bodies of our kids. This class will present two metaphors to help parents better understand adolescence and parents teens more effectively. This tried and tested information will be helpful to anyone working with teenagers.
Teacher:
Jack Williamson

Better Witness: Christian Presence in a Pluralistic World - John Barton May 01, 2024

The 21st century is one of increasing complexity and uncertainty, and it calls for Christians who are rooted and open, confident and humble, prophetic and teachable. This class will explore such themes for understanding Christian faith development and witness
Teacher:
John Barton

A Word About Faithfulness: Heb. 3:1-6 - Rachel Collins May 01, 2024

Speaker:
Rachel Collins

Promote Justice - Kevin Holland May 01, 2024

"And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets, who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. Hebrews 11:32-34 (NIV) There are approximately 165 Scriptures in the Bible that express how much a part of God’s heart and character justice is and how important it is that his people do justice. As Jesus said of the teachers of the Law and Pharisees in Matthew 23:23, “you have neglected justice, mercy, and faithfulness. These are the most important things in Moses’ Teachings.” The goal of this class is to elevate this essential tenet of our faith and discipleship through Bible teaching.
Teacher:
Kevin Holland

Aha! Five Surprising Spiritual (and Encouraging) Truths about the Next Generation - Tim Spivey May 01, 2024

Teacher:
Tim Spivey

Postures and Practices for a 15:28 Church: Acts, Discernment, and the Mission of God - Mark Love Apr 30, 2024

In Acts 15:28, James announces that the Gentiles have been included by God, including the line, "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to Us. . . ." This epochal moment is central to Luke's understanding of the early church, and it should be for ours as well. What would it require for your church to be a 15:28 church?
Teacher:
Mark Love

Renewed May 21, 2023

Chris Goldman, NWChurch Worship Band

A musical and spoken word worship experience built upon Isaiah 40 - 43, music by the NW Worship Band, and a desire to breathe spiritual energy into all who participate.

Abba Father: Immanuel May 21, 2023

Teacher: Bobby Valentine

Keep Calm and Carry On: How Ministers/Leaders Can Move Forward When Ministry is Difficult (Part 2) May 20, 2023

Teachers: Scott Lambert, Jim Martin

Spiritual leaders need encouragement to keep pressing forward in challenging Kingdom work. Approaches and tactics to wrestle with burnout, stress and anxiety will be accompanied by words of blessings, courage and prayers over each person in attendance. Both nights will offer practical insights as well as the feeding of each leader's soul. End the Harbor day with a time of encouragement to stay courageous in serving God and His people.

Reimagining Church in a Changed World May 20, 2023

Teachers: Jason Locke, Tod Vogt

Panelists: David Berry, Charles Kiser, Ryan Smith, Chale Wesson

In this Reimagining Church workshop, the panelists will look at how to move beyond the tired and futile hamster wheel of worship improvements, revolving
preachers, rebrandings, facility improvements, and the like. Instead of just rethinking how to improve the weekly hour of worship, what if we as churches
rethought how to do life together? What if Christian communities both new and old could imagine and live into a new future of being the church in the
world? This session will look at concrete ideas for how to break out of existing frameworks.

Love, Justice, and Hope: Theological Perspectives May 20, 2023

Teacher: Stanley Talbert

This class explores theological perspectives on love, justice, and hope. If “God Loves Forever,” what are the implications of human love for God, the neighbor, and the self in the 21st century? The class will think with theologies of love, justice, and hope while constructing an ethic for the church’s engagement in our contemporary world.

A Biblical Theology of Justice May 20, 2023

Teacher: Esau McCaulley

Words have meaning in context. What should the Christian mean when he or she speaks of justice? What are its foundations, aims, and purpose. Related to this question is the doctrine of sin. Is sin personal, corporate (systemic), or some combination of the two? This seminar will outline a Christian definition of justice rooted in the vision for the Kingdom of God that emerges across the canon.

A Message from the Church to the LGBTQ+ Community: The Same Spirit is at Work for God’s Purpose in All of Us May 19, 2023

Teacher: Rubel Shelley

The message of Scripture is that same-sex activity is outside God's will, but our culture tells us that "authentic personhood" and "one's true identity" must not be denied. The role of the Holy Spirit is to empower virtue and to enable Christians -- whether heterosexual or homosexual by orientation -- to live in chastity and fidelity as we are transformed into Christ's likeness.

Vox Dei: Hearing and Discerning the Voice of the Lord May 19, 2023

Teachers: Josh Ross, Chris Seidman

Life and ministry is much richer when we’re not the only ones doing the talking. We’ll pull on the thread of the Lord’s voice that runs throughout Scripture and talk practically about the challenges of discerning and following His voice in our lives today. We’ll also enjoy a few testimonies, and laugh (or cringe) over a few misguided experiences along the way.

What Kind of Development Work Would Jesus Do? May 19, 2023

Teachers: John Barton, KIBO Group

John will share experiences and lessons learned in his work with Kibo Group International, and his thirty years of involvement in cross-cultural church work and community development.

Hope and Help for Anxiety May 19, 2023

Teachers: Sharon Hargrave, Dee Dee Mayer

Many of us worry from time to time, but those who suffer from anxiety often experience fear that limits daily life and activities and makes it hard to find joy. Anxiety also impacts our ability to relate to one another in healthy ways. Over the last decade, mental health issues have been on the rise, with anxiety and depression taking the lead.

The National Institute for Mental Health reports that 31 percent of adults in America experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their life. These numbers are not different for people in the church. In fact, research shows that approximately one in five people sitting in congregation each week are struggling with a diagnosable anxiety disorder, and pastors are not immune to this statistic.
Join Sharon Hargrave and Dee Dee Mayer as they share new resources created through the RelateStrong Leadership Series to support people seeking to constructively address anxiety personally or in those they lead and serve. Whether a lay leader or a minister, this session is for you.

Compelling Preaching: What We Learned from Multiple Perspectives May 19, 2023

Teachers: Greg Anderson, Grady King

In 2022, Hope Network Ministries facilitated a nationwide Compelling Preaching survey on behalf of Pepperdine University's Office of Church Relations. The purpose of this class is to review some of the key takeaways from the data, process where we are aligned and where we are disconnected, and offer suggestions to church leaders on how to equip their congregations for more compelling preaching.

When God Withholds: Learning the Story of the Persistent Widow May 19, 2023

Teacher: Cliff Barbarick

The parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18 grapples with a universal human experience: sometimes the loving God responds to our cries for justice with silence. How do we understand such moments, and what do we do? To explore this story, we will learn it by heart and tell it to one another. It's possible—and fun!—to learn the story quickly, and the process deepens our appreciation for this deceptively simple parable.

God Has a Timeshare in Hell May 19, 2023

Teacher: Michael Chaffin

The Hebrew Scriptures are filled with superlative language describing the faithfulness of God. "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases," or "Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, his love endures forever." These are words of protest as well as praise; words offered in the midst of suffering, not simply once it has passed.
What might these extreme expressions of inexhaustible loyalty mean for God's groaning creation? What are the ultimate implications for a God of such character?
Psalm 139 shifts our expectations of God's promises by expanding our experience of his presence.

What the New Testament Tells Us About God’s Love May 19, 2023

Teacher: Kindy De Long

"God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us" (Romans 5:5). God's love is at the center of the story of Jesus. It is why the Word was made flesh, why Jesus died rather than conquered, and why we experience grace through Christ. Focusing on God's love in the New Testament, this class will explore what it means to be loved by God and how being loved by God changes us.

Permission Already Granted: Rethinking Perceptions of Spiritual Authority May 19, 2023

Teacher: Bryn Valencia

There is a gap between believing women are fully welcomed to lead in the Church, and seeing that liberty realized in our local churches – how do women and men live healthy, vibrant lives of faith and leadership in this in-between season? Rooted in the fundamental belief of the Imago Dei residing within every person, this class will help us unlock creative solutions for reclaiming hope, empowered soul care, and active engagement while in a season of waiting.

Loving Sundays: How Sundays Can Be Your Best Day of the Week May 19, 2023

Teacher: Jovan Barrington

You're invited to attend this class that focuses on how to make Sundays meaningful, fulfilling, and enjoyable. We will discuss topics such as the importance of gathering with your church, participating in spiritual practices, and alleviating anxiety and disappointments while cultivating celebration and joy. This class is open for ministry leaders and anyone who wants to make Sunday a great day and create a deeper connection with God. Join us and discover how Sundays can be your best day of the week.

Husband of One Wife: ”Nothing Else Needs to be Said” (Part 2) May 19, 2023

Teacher: John Mark Hicks

As congregations process pastoral leadership and the inclusion of women, one of the most frequent barriers is three Greek words traditionally translated “husband of one wife.” These two classes explore the interpretation and practice of this “qualification” in the history of the church (with emphasis on the Restoration Movement) and offer an understanding of this Greek idiom that does not exclude women in the context of 1 Timothy 3.

Becoming Wounded Healers: Responding to Religious Trauma May 19, 2023

Teacher: Charles Kiser

Many people leave churches and faith because they have experienced spiritual abuse and trauma due to toxic religious narratives. In this session we explore the concepts of spiritual abuse and religious trauma, and present pastoral leadership practices and postures that foster congregations that are healing for the spiritually traumatized.

Overcoming Struggles in Sharing Your Faith May 19, 2023

Teacher: Mark Mayo

Learn how to share your faith with gentleness and respect. In a world that is dark and divided, we will discover new ways to bridge the gap
and bring the one true answer to hope and peace-Jesus Christ.

OASIS: An Invitation to Real Rest May 19, 2023

Teacher: Carlos Isaziga

What do you do when you can’t shake the feeling of being tired? Maybe it’s a simple all too common physical depletion of energy, or are you dealing with a weariness much deeper than that?
Society is feeling the effects of fatigue on many different levels, Jesus makes an invitation to a life of rest and refreshment.

Ministry That’s Digital and Relational May 19, 2023

Teachers: Dudley Chancey, Josh Griffin, Mike Shepherd, Jeff Walling

In a world of ever-increasing and -invasive technology, which way should youth ministers turn? How can we reach teens who live in a digital world yet desperately seek authentic relationships? Sharing truth in imaginative ways has never been more important. Come hear some recent research and fresh ideas on how to leverage technology to give you more time to lean into relational ministry from experts and creative voices in the field of student ministry.

The Path of Most Resistance: Tested Strategies for a New Church Growth Model May 19, 2023

Teacher: Pat Bills

We are living in a time where churches are struggling with their attendance and morale is low; things just aren’t “what they used to be.” But what if churches actually embraced a strategy that measured success in different ways than before? Join me as we explore specific strategies that have “grown” our church into becoming a smaller more faithful and focused community of disciples.

In the Midst of Good News: A Workshop on the Gospel of Mark May 19, 2023

Teacher: Nick Zola

The Gospel of Mark is likely the earliest surviving written story of Jesus. It’s fast paced and action packed, revealing some rough language yet real literary artistry, with an abrupt start and a surprising twist at the end. In this workshop we will explore the good news Mark conveys to his listeners and how to relate that good news ourselves, if we dare.

Jesus Goes to College: Ministry in the Secular Context May 17, 2023

Teacher: K. Rex Butts

This class will explore the participation of the local church in the mission of God among college contexts. The operatives of transforming and planting will shape this discussion.

Breaking the Fourth Wall in Preaching May 17, 2023

Teacher: Cheryl Russell

Dialogical preaching and the opportunities and advantages it provides for churches in the new missional era.

Navigating Romantic Relationships in a Broken World May 17, 2023

Teacher: Dori Lansbach

Romantic relationships are in the forefront of every person’s mind at some point in their life. So much of our lives including our identity, our past, and our future are impacted by the partners that we choose to become involved with romantically, but how do we navigate these relationships in a broken world? How do we prepare our individual emotional and spiritual health to be ready to be in a relationship? How do we date in a way that brings glory to God? How do we navigate the dynamics of marriage to reflect God’s vision for a holy partnership? How do we
discern the unhealthy dynamics of relationships? Whether you’re single and preparing yourself to date, actively dating, or are married, this session will help you consider different aspects of relationships that are so often overlooked or misconstrued in today’s world.

Love, Truth, and Forever May 17, 2023

Teacher: Jeanette Duval

A straightforward look at these three vital aspects of God and how our understanding of them impacts every level of our spiritual health. Especially relevant for our younger adults, teens, and children!

Yes, Jesus Loves Me and So Should I: Cultivating Well-being Through Self-care and Self-compassion May 17, 2023

Teacher: La Shonda Coleman

At times it can be challenging to love and show compassion for self in the many ways that we so readily do for others. We may have bought into the myth that self care is selfish. Yes, I named it a myth and if this is something you have bought into, extend yourself grace--while leaning into an opportunity to believe differently. An opportunity to experience love starting with Jesus and YOU. In the scriptures, Jesus models for us the practice of self-care and compassion. The truth is, Jesus loves you and gives us permission to love ourselves as well (Leviticus 19:17-18). This love can be expressed through self-care practices and through the practice of self-compassion. The question now is, how does it look to love and show compassion for ourselves? This class will prepare participants to create a self-care plan and to experience a variety of sensations that flow from self compassion. Through education, embodied practices, guided reflections, prayer, meditation and dialogue, participants in this class can expect to have a wholehearted experience!

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner? May 17, 2023

Teacher: Karl Ihfe

The table is significant. It’s where Christians have broken bread, found fellowship, and extended compassion for centuries. It’s the place we still gather weekly to be reminded of our shared life in Christ. It’s also been the source of much controversy and contention, springing from the question, "Who gets a seat at the table?"
That question almost split the church at the very beginning, and in a culture as fractured and divided as ours, threatens to split the church again. It’s time to look again at the example of Jesus, who shared a table with all kinds of people, and it got him into all kinds of trouble. Let’s consider how God might be challenging us to stretch and grow beyond our comfort zone as he asks us once again that famous question: Guess who’s coming to dinner?

Planning with the Spirit: His Impact on Our Lives and the Church May 17, 2023

Teacher: Danny Quintero

Unlimited knowledge, unlimited power, unlimited love. Billions of followers, billions of lives impacted. People talk about Him, but do they walk with Him? If you are interested in knowing the importance of planning with the Spirit and the change that you can experience in your life and even in your church, I invite you to join us in this class.

The House that Built Me: The Women of Faith That Have Shaped My Life May 17, 2023

Teacher: Sara Young Jackson

I have always loved the song sung by Miranda Lambert, “The House That Built Me,” because it so poignantly reminds me of the people in my life who have influenced who I have become today. In this class, I will reflect on the women, both in Scripture and in my personal history, whose lives of faith have “shaped” me.

The Low Lying Fruit of Proactive Congregational Care: Reclaiming the Power of Kindness and Goodness in Our Church Communities and Beyond May 17, 2023

Teacher: Kent Jobe

This class will look at the underlying spirit that defined the early church and how intentional congregational care can transform the local church from the inside out.

Lamenting Date-Onomics* May 17, 2023

Teacher: Kelly Haer

60:40. Why are there so often more women than men on college campuses and in your young adult ministry? How does this "man deficit" impact both men and women? What does faithful living look like amidst the current economics of dating? Demographics, statistics, game theory, and ambiguous loss will be used to make sense of--and provide a guide to navigate--the dating climate at school and life after college!
*Date-Onomics coined by Jon Birger

Trueish: Church Leadership Principles That Sound Right, but Aren’t Anymore. Mostly. May 17, 2023

Teacher: Tim Spivey

Even prior to the pandemic, the church was changing in dramatic ways. This class discusses, humorously, the expiration of several popular leadership principles, and offers a look at the prevailing church of the rest of the 21st century.

Late Night Comedy Club May 17, 2023

Teachers: Jacob Parnell, Bryan Schackmann

Q: What do you get when you cross a Church of Christ preacher and a stand-up comic? A: Better punchlines than this one! Give your brain a break and come enjoy some all ages stand-up comedy. You'll learn absolutely nothing but you will laugh! (Notice: Laughs not guaranteed.)

What Kind of Interfaith Work Would Jesus Do? May 17, 2023

Teacher: John Barton

John will discuss his new book, Better Religion, and explore the following questions: How should Christians interact with followers of other religions? How would Jesus have us do interfaith work? Where are the lines between faithfulness and compromise?

Religious Trauma May 17, 2023

Teacher: Chais DeMaggio

A look into the research on religious trauma, and pathways to creating healthy and safe religious communities. After demystifying the subject of religious trauma this class proposes a transparent and inclusive approach to building religious community.

Truthy or Truthful? The Authority of Scripture in a Cross-Pressured Time (Part 1) May 17, 2023

Teachers: Leonard Allen, Lauren White

The Authority of Scripture in a Different Key: Incarnation and Sanctification
The doctrine of Scripture’s authority and inspiration has tended to be distorted in two directions, the fundamentalist and the modernist. We propose an older view that is
neither: that the Holy Spirit has sanctified or made holy the processes of Scripture’s incarnational production and preservation, setting these texts apart for the Trinity’s
service.

Truthy or Truthful? The Authority of Scripture in a Cross-Pressured Time (Part 2) May 17, 2023

Teachers: Leonard Allen, Lauren White

Signs of the Times: Modernist and Postmodernist Readings of the Bible
Modern critical studies of the Bible tended to fragment its unity and question its historical
accuracy. Postmodern approaches tend to deny the text any stable meaning and depend
on the reader to create it—so now we commonly hear of “queering the Bible.”

A Biblical Theology of Policing May 17, 2023

Teacher: Esau McCaulley

This session will examine New Testament passages that might inform how the police force ought to engage the populous. In the course of our time together we will analyze Romans 13, the ministry of John the Baptist, and the arrest and trial of Jesus, all of which have encounters with agents of the state.

A Question from the LGBTQ+ Community to the Church: Are We Welcome at Christ’s Table with You? May 17, 2023

Teacher: Rubel Shelly

The church bears significant responsibility for hounding and humiliating gay people – thus leading them not only to be skeptical of Christians but to avoid and despise the church. We have been disrespectful in too many settings. Told too many denigrating jokes. Perpetuated ugly stereotypes. Can we reopen dialogue with the LGBTQ+ community?

Leaning Into the Dissonance: Navigating Faith’s Tensions Together May 17, 2023

Teacher: Andy Wall

In every generation, God’s people must wrestle their way through a variety of faith tensions: pursuing justice versus practicing forgiveness; caring for personal needs versus caring for communal needs; prophetically challenging shortcomings versus pastorally tending hurts; enjoying God-given freedoms versus foregoing freedoms for the greater good; honoring time-honored traditions versus pursuing healthy innovations. Join us as we reflect on the wisdom Scripture offers as we navigate faith tensions, learning to hold a firm center and soft edges as we wrestle through challenging issues together.

Participating in God’s Restoration: The Story of Churches of Christ May 17, 2023

Teacher: Mike Cope

Mike Cope will tell stories that help understand who Churches of Christ are. Mike is Pepperdine's Director of Ministry Outreach. In addition to being the Director of the Harbor Lectures, he directs three Lilly-funded initiatives for Pepperdine focusing on: ministers, congregational leadership, and preaching. He was a senior minister for thirty years, and taught freshman classes of 300 for Abilene Christian University for fifteen years.

Stories from the Field: Church Planting and the Mission of Jesus May 16, 2023

Teacher: Ron Clark

Panelists: Carlos Isaziga, Daniel Jarchow, Addison Weaver, Brendin Williamson

In Luke 10 Jesus encourages his disciples to pray for the Lord to ‘kick out’ workers into a field where the fruit is ripe; so ripe that the harvest is urgent. This panel discussion will explore stories from the ‘field’ as church and campus planters discuss the urgency of mission, evangelism, and outreach for Jesus.

Common Grace/Uncommon Gospel May 16, 2023

Teacher: Monte Cox

In a culture steeped in pluralism and the relativism it brings, what are some "points of contact" with our non-Christian neighbors? Can we still claim that the Gospel is unique?

Abba Father: God of Rescue May 16, 2023

Teacher: Bobby Valentine

The Simple Secret: Choosing Love in a Culture of Hostility May 16, 2023

Teacher: Josh Graves

Jesus' understanding and commitment to love is what separates him from many of the great teachers in human history. This session will explore Jesus' passion for love--including the rejection of lame expressions of love-- and what it means for us today as local churches seek to embody love in a culture bent towards shame, deceit, competition, division, and hostility.

Keep Calm and Carry On: How Ministers/Leaders Can Move Forward When Ministry is Difficult May 16, 2023

Teachers: Scott Lambert, Jim Martin

Spiritual leaders need encouragement to keep pressing forward in challenging Kingdom work. Approaches and tactics to wrestle with burnout, stress and anxiety will be accompanied by words of blessings, courage and prayers over each person in attendance. Both nights will offer practical insights as well as the feeding of each leader's soul. End the Harbor day with a time of encouragement to stay courageous in serving God and His people.

Abba Father: God of Steadfast Love May 16, 2023

Teacher: Bobby Valentine

Kingdom Confusion: How to Talk About the Sin of Christian Nationalism Without Splitting the Church May 16, 2023

Teacher: Doug Peters

A Poetic Take May 16, 2023

Teacher: Zac Luben

What might ministers learn from the ways poets view the world? This class will explore that question by looking at the work of Charles Taylor, Hartmut Rosa, and Andrew Root.

Enneagram Wisdom fro Meaning and Belonging (Part 2) May 16, 2023

Teachers: Luke Norsworthy, Suzanne Stabile

We haven't met anyone who doesn't want to belong or have meaning. Yet many of us seem to miss out on both. Drawing upon on timeless wisdom from the Living Word, Enneagram Master teacher Suzanne Stabile and Luke Norsworthy will discuss how to find both.

Love Stories by Jesus: Finding Surprises about God’s Love in Christ’s Parables (Part 2) May 16, 2023

Teacher: Jeff Walling

Restoration for a New Generation: The Spirit (Part 2) May 16, 2023

Teacher: Taylor Walling

Restoration churches have always claimed to model themselves after the New Testament church. The church that started on Pentecost. The church that prayed and walls shook. The church that added to their number daily. Among the many characteristics of the Spirit-filled early church, future generations have to reclaim a counter-cultural unity, unceasing prayer, and a living witness to the world. We must disciple tomorrow's church in daily dependence on and communion with God's very Spirit, for the sake of all generations to come.

Enneagram Wisdom for Meaning and Belonging (Part 1) May 16, 2023

Teachers: Luke Norsworthy, Suzanne Stabile

We haven't met anyone who doesn't want to belong or have meaning. Yet many of us seem to miss out on both. Drawing upon on timeless wisdom from the Living Word, Enneagram Master teacher Suzanne Stabile and Luke Norsworthy will discuss how to find both.

Love Stories by Jesus: Finding Surprises About God’s Love in Christ’s Parables (Part 1) May 16, 2023

Teacher: Jeff Walling

Restoration for a New Generation: The Story (Part 1) May 16, 2023

Teacher: Taylor Walling

Here's a thought experiment: you ask a teenager in your church what it means to be part of the churches of Christ or the Restoration Movement. How do they respond? The answer depends on the story they've inherited. Too often the story handed to the next generation has been either so narrow it strains against adaptation or so broad it lacks a clear identity. This class will present a framework for telling a story of restoration more lasting and helpful to future generations.

God Is: Expanding Our Images of God and Self May 16, 2023

Teacher: Mallory Wyckoff

What we believe to be true about God informs
what we believe to be true about everything and
everyone else. When God is conceived solely
through masculine language, metaphors, and
imagery—whether in sermons, religious art, or in
private prayer—we are robbed of countless ways
to experience the Divine, to consider ourselves
as humans, to order our communities in ways
where everyone has the ability to flourish. In this
workshop, we’ll inventory our functioning image(s)
of God, explore feminine imagery and metaphors,
and seek to live into a fuller expression of the
Divine—and of ourselves.

Church Growth: Where Do We Go From Here? May 16, 2023

Teacher: Dewayne Winrow

I will provide a candid and personal assessment of the pre-pandemic conditions, pandemic challenges to being the church, and post-pandemic rebuilding based on these challenges.

All About Eve: Women in the Pastoral Epistles May 15, 2023

Teacher: Ken Cukrowski

What is going on in Ephesus? Some women are misbehaving ("Eves"), and other women are ministering in diverse ways. We'll do a deep dive into the Pastoral Epistles and explore the various gifts that women bring to ministry.

Guiding Children to Find Their Connection in God’s Ultimate Story May 14, 2023

Teachers: Marian and Tim Parker

Created from longing itself, humans are born
with a longing to connect. Children are naturally
open to a connection to our Creator. Coupling
this curiosity to an exploration of the Word
through the many facets of who we have been
created to be allows for deeper understanding of
our place—our connection.
We will consider the idea of taking God’s stories
and learning through a rotation of understandings
or methods—science, art, games, drama, history,
and how we can serve others. Taking a deep
dive into the richness of God’s gifts of learning
methods, children can begin to discover their
place in God’s story. Come explore with us and
discover your place in God’s ultimate story.

Memories: Photographs and Stories from the Restoration Movement May 14, 2023

Teachers: John Mark Hicks, Mac Ice, Jerry Rushford

Photographs are windows into our stories. Join us for an interPhotographs are windows into our stories. Join us for an interactive conversation about historic photographs from the Restoration Movement and the stories to which they bear witness. The timeline for the photographs begins in the middle of the 19th century and concludes in the present day.active conversation about historic photographs from
the Restoration Movement and the stories to which they bear witness.

All Together in One Place: How One Church has Reimagined Communal Life May 13, 2023

Teacher: Candace Nicolds

Class 1: The Brookline Church of Christ in Massachusetts is a 100-year-old congregation, but communal life looks different than it ever has before. Church members are located all across the country! The worship services are "fusion": some people attend in the building and some via Zoom, yet it is very much a single community as the two groups interact with one another. In a time when people increasingly find community online, Brookline is tapping into that to create a new type of church. Come hear how this church is reimagining being "all together in one place" and what they have learned so far.

The Art of Serving the Elderly May 13, 2023

Teachers: Susan Giboney, Mary Alice Reed

This class will focus on how to best serve our growing population of senior citizens in our churches. Wisely using church funds for our elderly will be discussed as well as understanding the needs of this special age group. The class will also give suggestions on how to help this population to finish life well. Ministers, families, and seniors will benefit from this session.

Transfigurational Leadership: Christian Leadership in the 21st Century May 13, 2023

Teacher: Gregg Marutzky

What was the leadership style of Jesus when he was on earth? Many describe Jesus as a Servant Leader or an Upside Down Leader. Jesus has also been described as a Transformational Leader, Inclusive Leader, or Collaborative Leader. Arguments can be made for all these labels. Unfortunately, when we use organizational terms to describe the leadership of Christ, the descriptions fail to capture the leader of leaders fully. Becoming a Jesus leader or Christian leader means transfiguration by the Holy Spirit to become an imitation of Jesus. Jesus' leadership embodies the Cross and becomes the servant of all. Leadership is not exercising authority over others but rather joining with others. Leadership is at the intersection of leaders and followers. Without followers, there are no leaders. Leadership in the 21st century has significant challenges and requires leaders in the church to understand transfiguration. Let's explore together going beyond transactional leadership and transformative leadership to transfigurational leadership.

Leveling Leadership in an Elder Board Model May 13, 2023

Teacher: Tiffany Dahlman

Class 1: Preachers, have you been frustrated with your elders over matters of theology or mission? Elders, have you felt anxiety or confusion over your pulpit minister's theology? Very often Churches of Christ hire pulpit ministers with advanced degrees in Bible and ministry while the elders do not have any such formal training. Elders may be rich in faith and love for the flock, but the formal training distance between them and the preacher can wreak havoc on a congregation. Some have called this an "upside-down polity" where those without formal training in Bible and ministry are the authority over the ministers who do have such training. As a result, conflict ensues, misunderstandings abound, and church growth stymies. This class will offer several ways for churches to overcome the dark side of the upside down polity system so that ministers and elders can work together and the formal training gap can dissolve without compromising a plurality of leadership or the greater gifts.

Sustained Flourishing in Ministry for the Long Haul May 13, 2023

Teacher: Dee Dee Mayer

Pastor burnout is real. Vocational ministry is challenging, particularly in our current cultural climate. The Barna Group released research that communicates that 42% of pastors have considered leaving ministry in the past year. Some factors impacting this rise in pastors questioning their call to ministry are stress, loneliness, and politics. Please join Dee Dee Mayer as she shares strategies for sustaining wellness and flourishing across a lifespan of ministry. In this class you will leave with tools that will help you assess both your own wellness as well as the wellness of those you lead and serve.

How our Church Became a Resilience Hub for the Community May 13, 2023

Teachers: Judy and Woody Square

We have had an exciting journey these past two years partnering with the City of San Leandro and our immediate neighbors to develop our church into a Resilience Hub for the community. A resilience hub is a neighborhood center that integrates disaster preparedness, community care and belonging, and sustainability to be "ready for anything." We have a steering committee made up of 4 church members and 8 Lewis Avenue neighbors. We meet about every six weeks to plan block parties, work on an emergency communication system, prepare the church building to serve as an evacuation center, and address the neighborhood’s top concerns (crime, traffic calming, etc.) The immediate neighborhood sees us as a valuable resource and asset, and we are building many new connections throughout the city.
More and more cities will be starting Resilience Hub initiatives, and they will be reaching out to communities of faith to serve in this capacity. Come and learn how your church can bless your surrounding community in this way.

Standing Up for Jesus May 13, 2023

Teachers: Jacob Parnell, Bryan Schackmann

Bryan and Jacob are Church of Christ preachers who also do stand-up comedy on the side. (Think of it as a mid-life crisis people are forced to watch!) In this session, they will share stories about their time in the bars and comedy clubs of Los Angeles and the California Bay Area trying to share the light and hope of Jesus in a pretty dark world. They’ll also each perform some of their original stand-up material! (So laugh good.)

1 Corinthians 13: The Chapter of the Holy Spirit May 13, 2023

Teacher: Jack Williamson

This famous chapter, where the Apostle Paul describes love in so many facets and virtues, is a staple of Christian ceremonies. It is used over and over at gatherings, from weddings to memorial services and everything in between. There is nothing wrong with this, but so many of the references to this great treatise miss the context and meaning that it seems Paul intended to convey. This chapter on Love is actually Paul’s conclusion to a section of teaching on the gifting of the Holy Spirit. This class will explore that idea.

DnD and Jesus May 13, 2023

Teacher: Kyle Sapp

With the rise of popular hits like Stranger Things on Netflix and the amazing success of podcasts such as Critical Role and the Adventure Zone, Dungeons and Dragons (DnD) has carved a hard to ignore chunk in the cultural zeitgeist. However, the Church has not had such a friendly history with this game, at worst calling it a gateway to Satanism and at best looking at it’s players with confusion and disdain. In our session, we will talk about why millions of people play Dungeons and Dragons, discuss the ways it helps improve social, emotional and spiritual health, and even brainstorm ideas for how the church can be more inclusive to DnD’s fanbase. You won’t have to roll a character to join but it couldn’t hurt.

God’s Abundant Love May 13, 2023

Teachers: Alex and Eleni Melirrytos

"... preparing a feast of rich food..."
Theme verse: (Isaiah 25:6) "... the Lord Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for all peoples, a banquet of aged wine - the best of meats and the finest of wines." Please feel free to "arrange" as you see fit.

Does God Love Other Religions? May 11, 2023

Teacher: Dyron Daugherty

Your neighborhood probably has Muslims, Buddhists, and Hindus. Your kids and grandkids probably go to school with Jews, Sikhs, and Taoists. You may have members of other religions working in the office down the hall from you. Let's get real: the world's religions are all around us. So now what? What should you do, as a Christian, about that fact? In this class, we explore Christian responses to the world's religions. And you probably already know the answer to the class question!

Missional Preaching May 11, 2023

Teacher: Dusty Rush

Exploring some subtle shifts in the ways we measure good preaching.

Love, Justice, and Hope: Theological Perspectives May 11, 2023

Teacher: Stanley Talbert

This class explores theological perspectives on love, justice, and hope. If "God Loves Forever," what are the implications of human love for God, the neighbor, and the self in the 21st century?

The Prodigal Pastor/Preacher May 04, 2023

Teacher: Thomas Fitzpatrick

Just Keep Swimming May 04, 2023

Teachers: Liz Perez, Robert Perez

What is your Individual Ministry Plan (IMP)? How do you happily navigate in ministry in adversity (God's way), especially when you are a woman? Come see how godly women in the Bible and women of today are using their God given talens and calling in today's world. God has an IMP for everyone, which includes both men and women. I Peter 1: 13-16

Streaming with the Spirit May 04, 2023

Teacher: Phil Brookman

The average American watches a staggering 4.5 hours of TV per day. Other than sleep and work, we will spend more time watching TV over the course of our lives than any other activity, making it one of the most powerful forces in our formation as people. This class will offer a perspective as to how we might approach the shows we watch as disciples of Jesus. What metrics of evaluation might we employ in our discernment? How do we know the differences between helpful and harmful?

Husband of One Wife: ”Nothing Else Needs to Be Said” (Part 1) May 04, 2023

Teacher: John Mark Hicks

As congregations process pastoral leadership and the inclusion of women, one of the most frequent barriers is three Greek words traditionally translated "husband of one wife." These two classes explore the interpretation and practice of this "qualification" in the history of the church (with emphasis on the Restoration Movement) and offer an understanding of this Greek idiom that does not exclude women in the context of 1 Timothy 3.

Tombstones to Cornerstones: Hope and Help for Churches in Stress and Decline May 04, 2023

Teachers: Jessica Knapp, Rick Krug

Many churches face hard times for many reason, and while struggling to make the right decision for each unique congregation, many church leaders are finding the future is far less certain than ever before. The search for congregational identity, what to do with the church properties that when first developed were worth a fraction of what they are now, and how to serve a rapidly changing social and economic demographic have many congregations wondering if they should even exist at all. To help bring the hope of God back to the people, Rick Krug and Jessica Knapp bring insights and admonitions designed to help churches and their leaders navigate the unknown future.

The Bitterness of God’s Love: Hearing Obadiah and Jonah May 04, 2023

Teacher: Cliff Barbarick

God has revealed to his people over the generations that he is a generous and merciful God, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. When God extends his loving forgiveness to those who have hurt us deeply, however, it can be a bitter experience. The prophetic works of Obadiah and Jonah, which appear in sequence in the Book of the Twelve, offer God's people a way to process this better experience. For this session, Cliff Barbarick will perform Obadiah and Jonah from memory and lead a discussion about how these books help us wrestle with our relationship with our enemies.

#QuietQuitting in Church May 04, 2023

Teacher: Brock Paulk

The combination of social division, political partisanship, and an ongoing global pandemic have made community - including church community - uniquely difficult. Many of our churches have experienced significant attrition among members and even leaders as we wrestle with pressures and problems that seem to have caught us flat-footed. Together we'll explore principles and practices to address anxiety and burnout so that we can help one another stay the course.

”None of These Diseases” Revisited & Expanded May 04, 2023

Teacher: Allen Wai Jang

The popular 1963 book by Dr. S.I. McMillen, MD revealing health "secrets" from the Bible, has gone through several revisions and, after his passing in 1990, was expanded by Dr. David E. Stern, MD. Adding insights from TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), we can unlock further insights that illustrate the universality and inspiration of the Holy Scriptures!

Passing the Testimony May 04, 2023

Teachers: Doug Crum, Lance Havens

"I used to go to the wildest, craziest, most awesome parties ever - but now I go to church instead." A testimony can tell an amazing story of how Jesus is transforming our lives: it can also glamorize sin, glorify the sinner, and present God/Christianity as a boring afterthought. How can we use such a powerful tool to help our members tell His story? Come share your ideas and mull over a few of ours. If you only attend one class . . . then this will be the best on you go to.

Post-Traumatic Pastor: Healing Among Those Who Hurt You May 03, 2023

Teacher: David Ayres

Religious trauma is an occupational hazard for ministers. But how do you heal from wounds inflicted by the church when you work for one? Join us as we explore a framework for finding renewal and resilience on the other side of church-induced trauma in ministry.

Trueish: Church Leadership Principles That Sound Right, but Aren’t Anymore. Mostly. (Part 1) May 03, 2023

Teacher: Tim Spivey

Even prior to the pandemic, the church was changing in dramatic ways. This class discusses, humorously, the expiration of several popular leadership principles, and offers a look at the prevailing church of the rest of the 21st century.

What the Old Testament Tells Us About God’s Love May 03, 2023

Teacher: Rick Marrs

There is a 500 Pound Rock in my Garage May 03, 2023

Teacher: Rick Gibson

Being honest about things that may not belong in our lives or in our churches.

Embracing the Wilderness Way May 03, 2023

Teacher: Drew Dixon

"I am making a way in the wilderness." (Isaiah 43:19)
The church in America is in a wilderness season. Congregations are declining and fewer people profess Christian faith every year. But what if instead of looking back to "the golden years," the way forward is a divine invitation deeper into the wilderness? By looking at Jesus' wilderness season as well as the example of the ancient desert mothers and fathers, we can discover wisdom and hope in embracing the wilderness way.

Dealing with Criticism! May 03, 2023

Teacher: Caleb Grimes

Criticism comes with influence, leadership and changing lives. It's not fun but you're not alone.

Praying the Psalms for Spiritual Formation May 03, 2023

Teacher: Bryon Fike

Sixty-five books of the Bible were written for the purpose of communicating God's Word to us. One book was written to help us communicate our words to God. the Psalms were written to be prayed. Come and learn one way you can pray all 150 Psalms.

And Also Some Women...” (Luke 8:2). A Panel Conversation with Several of Our Women Pulpit Ministers May 03, 2023

Teacher: Amy Bost Henegar

Panelists: Candace Nicolds, Jess Lowry, Tiffany Dahlman, Cheryl Russell

You may have attended classes about woemn in ministry, heard from elders who have led change for inclusion in their congregations, studied the theology behind it with scholars, even heard from churches with female elders. But this panel invites you in to a unique conversation with several of the women who are currently serving as pulpit ministers in our churches. a diverse array of questions will be asked and honestly answered, including the questions you bring!

Teaching and Preaching from Hosea, Amos, and Micah May 21, 2022

Teacher: Rick Marrs

This workshop will look not only at the original context for the messages of these 8th century BC prophets but also at their contemporary relevance. What do they say about God, about faithfulness, about justice? How can they guide the church today during these challenging times? We will talk about teaching and preaching strategies that might help communicate these biblical themes.

Speaking by the Numbers May 21, 2022

Teacher: Sean Palmer

Although best known as an instructive personality typing system, the Enneagram is also a tool for communication and connection. Let's explore together how this ancient tool can help teachers, preachers, and church leaders increase their gospel impact.

The Reconstruction of Relationship May 21, 2022

Teachers: Chris Goldman, Piper Ditzler

Deconstruction of faith is a critical discussion in our time impacting everyone. Reconstruction of relationships seems out of reach to so many. Division and disbelief is running rampant. Avoiding the conversation is simply not an option. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings, the Northwest Church Worship Band and Chris Goldman will explore these two topics through scripture, story, music, live art, and suggestions for a more hopeful tomorrow. (Wednesday - Deconstruction; Thursday - Reconstruction).

It’s Still About Jesus: Christ-Centered Student Ministry May 21, 2022

Teacher: Jeff Walling

Everywhere we look student ministry is facing the changes and challenges brought by: technology, ecology, politics, and pandemics. Anchoring our ministry to students in the nature and teaching of Christ has never been more important. Youth ministry leaders from across the country will share current research and offer practical advice on keeping Christ at the center of ministry to teens in areas like identity, gender issues, and creativity in teaching.

Practical Wisdom for Youth Group Parents May 21, 2022

Teachers: David Fraze, Walter Surdacki

Don't know how to be involved in youth ministry? David and Walter draw on over 60 years of youth ministry experience. They will help you see how you can partner with your youth minister and help your youth ministry thrive. You don't have to be a great public speaker or devote every weekend to be a small group leader either to get involved! They will help you see different "in front and behind the scenes" ways you can support and serve.

Passing the Torch: Blessing the Next Minister May 21, 2022

Teachers: Billy Curl, Tyson Moore

Passing the proverbial torch in ministry must be done carefully between ministers. Billy Curl served 40+ years as the minister of the Crenshaw church of Christ in Los Angeles, California and then successfully retired after having discipled, trained and prepared his successor Tyson Moore. Their story has encouraged many in the African-American churches of Christ across the nation.

Recovering Togetherness in Relationships May 21, 2022

Teacher: Dan Zink

The fast pace and high demands of today leave little time or energy for togetherness in our relationships. This workshop will focus on deepening connection in relationships with friends and spouses to better ground us in love for each other even when time and energy are limited. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family.

Prayer Trails May 21, 2022

Teacher: Lisa Parnell

I remember being taught as a child that prayer is our way of talking to God, and Scripture is how God talks to us. But each can seem so one-sided and separate. What if prayer could be more like a conversation, a dialogue between God and us? Prayer Trails are an interactive, experiential way of conversing with God while walking through nature. They have proven meaningful and memorable for teens and adults alike. This class will outline the process for making a Prayer Trail and allow you the opportunity to "walk" a virtual Prayer Trail yourself. God is waiting to connect with you...come and see.

Better Together: God Loves Our Diversity and So Should We May 21, 2022

Teacher: Andy Wall

God has always called his people to live in community. But God surely knows how hard it is for us humans to get along! If you’re aching for a greater sense of unity in our churches, come explore how Jesus’ ministry, the power of the cross, and the canon of Scripture provide a powerful rationale for unity in the midst of our diversity.

Reconciliation: Compassion vs. Compulsion May 21, 2022

Teacher: Jim White

Often overlooked because of its brevity, the book of Philemon gives us a glimpse into Paul’s heart, psychology, and doctrine. Paul puts into practice his teaching from the Corinthians letter to bring together two former adversaries. Learn from this shortest of Paul’s epistles the way to gently restore one who has strayed.

An Inside Perspective on Discernment of Women in Leadership May 21, 2022

Teacher: Shane Hughes

Walter Rauschenbusch: Social Justice Warrior May 21, 2022

In this session, American church historian Christina Littlefield will explore how one American pastor yoked the evangelical pietism of his Northern Baptist youth to the social justice platform of the Progressive Era, helping to develop the 1908 Social Creed of the Churches. Walter Rauschenbusch (1861-1918) was one of the leading voices of the early evangelically social gospel. However, he grew up in a conservative household in Rochester, New York and spent zero time thinking about the social conditions of the industrial age, until he began ministering to German immigrants in Hell’s Kitchen, New York in the 1880s. The frequency of funerals for children convinced him the Gospel should serve the whole person, body and soul, and the whole of society, not just the church. He grounded his theological vision in the social justice calls of the Hebrew prophets and the kingdom of God rhetoric of Jesus Christ.

Set Free: Stories from Luke for Today May 21, 2022

Teacher: Kindy De Long

Wounded Healing May 20, 2022

Teacher: Kyle Sapp

There’s a thing that swallows you. It holds you together while it’s tearing you apart. Lately, that thing seems like ministry. In the midst of political division, pandemic madness, and the usual chaos, it has become increasingly difficult to believe ministry matters. In this class, we will discuss the intersection between ministry wounds, burnout, and the God who says, “My grace is sufficient for you, my strength is perfected in weakness.” Together we will discuss ways we can heal, rest, and be drawn closer to God in the midst of communal suffering and pain.

Preaching That Matters May 20, 2022

Teacher: Amy Bost Henegar

How do we proclaim the good news of Jesus in an increasingly complicated world? How can we craft sermons that speak words of life for weary hearts and troubled minds? We will ask these important questions and more, seeking God's wisdom for the sacred vocation of preaching.

I Know What You Did Next Summer May 20, 2022

Teacher: Nick Perez

Did God know about COVID-19 before it existed? Various models of divine foreknowledge seek to explain what God knows and when God knows it. This class will explore several of these models and apply them to the global pandemic.

”Boots Feel Better than Shoes” May 20, 2022

Teacher: Martha Highfield

This is the remarkable story of how a series of determined missionary women initiated and shaped Church of Christ healthcare missions in southeastern Nigeria. The stories of nurses Glenna Peden, Mary Kelton, Grace Farrar, Iris Hays, and Nancy Petty reveal how each did what she could to overcome inexperience, conflict, and cultural challenges while relying on faith, family, and community.

Discovering the Heart of God May 19, 2022

Teacher: Bryan Fojtasek

If you had to describe God in a single sentence, how would you do it? Did you know there’s a passage in the Bible (Exodus 34:6) where God does exactly that? This description of God’s heart was so comforting for the Israelites that they kept repeating it for thousands of years in all kinds of adverse situations! This class will take a deep-dive into how God reveals his heart to Israel at a crucial moment in their history, and then make practical applications to church life, family life, and our relationship with God.

Prophesy to the Bones May 19, 2022

Teacher: David Ayres

Why are you still a member of Churches of Christ? It seems that, for many of us, that question has become increasingly difficult to answer. For those in our churches who are all too aware of our tradition’s shortcomings, it can be difficult to speak convincingly about the gifts our heritage has to offer. It often feels as though we escaped our bondage to rigid sectarianism only to wander aimlessly in the wilderness of relentless self-critique. Join us as we imagine what it might look like to offer our churches a positive vision for who we are and who we can still be.

Created to Create May 19, 2022

Teacher: Bryan Schackmann

Scripture invites us into a world where we are encouraged to create alongside our Creator. Unfortunately, we often spend more time consuming instead of creating. How can you reclaim God's call on your life to create meaning in deep and profound ways?

Portadores de un tesoro May 19, 2022

Teacher: Jonathan Guevara

El ministerio de Jesús y del apóstol Pablo tuvieron una singularidad, la persecución. Es común encontrar en el nuevo Testamento las dificultades que atravesaban aquellos que decidían llevar el mensaje de salvación. ¿Qué los motivaba? ¿Por qué estaban tan apasionados? Hoy en día la predicación del evangelio se ha tornado opcional para muchos creyentes. ¿Qué los desmotiva? En esta lección encontraremos la magnitud del mensaje que Dios ha encomendado a los creyentes y motivos para llevarlo por doquier.

Spiritual Lessons from the Marvel Cinematic Universe May 19, 2022

Teacher: Caleb Borchers

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is the most financially successful film franchise in the history of Hollywood, and 12 years from its founding continues to be a major shaper of popular culture. These superhero tales not only entertain and distract, but they also have a moral vision which shapes cultural understandings across the globe. In this session we'll look at some of the spiritual lessons that one can derive from this franchise and evaluate the ways these lessons support and challenge a Christian understanding of the world.

Retrieving Communion: A Call to the Table May 19, 2022

Teacher: Bradley Steele

Since their inception, the weekly celebration of the Lord’s Supper has remained a distinctive practice in Churches of Christ. However, though most congregations remain unified in the practice of weekly celebration, their actual execution of that celebration varies rather widely. This class constitutes a call to a renewed celebration of the Eucharist through the retrieval of the Eucharistic theology of Scripture and the early Church.

Church Planting in a Digital Age May 19, 2022

Teacher: Ron Clark

During the Covid pandemic Kairos was faced with a dilemma concerning church planters, campus leaders, and assessing future leaders. We quickly pivoted and witnessed our planters develop hybrid models of ministry. Kairos also developed online assessment labs (Discovery and Strategy Labs) and continued to train and prepare leaders to begin new ministries in 2022. This online format opens the door for global assessment, training, and planting throughout the world. In this session we will discuss how the digital age affects leadership development, discernment for calling, and preparing future leaders in Jesus’ kingdom.

Seeing Around Corners May 19, 2022

Teacher: Tim Spivey

Capturing Your Church's Future

Here Goes Nothing May 19, 2022

Teacher: Wade Hodges

A Theology of Ministry From Ecclesiastes

Conversations Matter May 18, 2022

Teachers: Scott and Kim Lambert

We cannot shy away from difficult conversations that matter and we need safe places to have them. Join Scott and Kim Lambert, co-founders of The Conversation Group, to discover why Christian leaders around the world are actively seeking mentorship relationships and leaning into impactful conversations. You will be encouraged by the four principles above and discover how they can impact the relationships you are navigating.

A Guarantee You Can Trust May 18, 2022

Teacher: Shon Smith

These days few guarantees seem to be worth more than the paper they are printed on, but in 2 Peter 1 we find a guarantee that one can take to the bank. It is the guarantee that one can make a profound impact on this world for the glory of Jesus. This guarantee, however, hinges on a growing faith. Join us for this class to discuss qualities that every disciple must allow the Holy Spirit to form in them to make the greatest impact through them.

The New Face of Anxiety May 18, 2022

Teacher: Ghavinn Crutcher

Texting rather than talking. Gathering likes and followers. Making friends via a gaming console. Unrelenting 24/7 news cycles. Ready or not, the rise of social media, and 24/7 Internet access has changed the way we relate to one another (and ourselves), leaving in its wake a whole new set of challenges for those who use it.

Senior Ministry: Taking Care of Jesus May 18, 2022

Teachers: Everett and Earlene Bryson

The world system in which we all live has many different theologies and principles when it comes to serving seniors, the sick and shut-in, the poor, the needy and others. Some think that there is no value in taking care of these individuals. However, Jesus Christ teaches the value in serving and meeting the needs of indigent people. In this session “Senior Ministry: Taking Care of Jesus, we will examine the principles of serving those in needs and the ultimate benefits of this type of service through the message of Jesus in Matthew 25:31-40. This session is part of the Sunset Haven Senior Ministry Series.

I Would Not Have Chosen That Text May 18, 2022

Teacher: Candace Nicolds

Do you sometimes struggle coming up with texts for your next sermon series? Perhaps you find yourself defaulting to some of your favorite texts, or those that seem “easy” to preach. In this class, we will discuss some of the positives (and negatives) that come with following a lectionary, look at some of the different lectionaries available, and explore some of the resources that are available for preachers and/or worship-planners who use a lectionary.

Lord, I Want to See May 18, 2022

Teacher: Ben Fike

We knew there would be disagreement in church, but nobody warned us about the alternate realities! And yet, doesn’t it sometimes feel as if we’re living in a completely different world from those around us? Many of the conflicts we deal with these days seem to have much less to do with what we see than how we see it. Modern psychology gives us a helpful label for identifying how otherwise similar people might arrive at wildly different interpretations of what they see: cognitive biases. This class will explore several common biases and how awareness of bias in ourselves and others can help us communicate more effectively and others, even and especially those with whom we disagree.

Establishing a Congregational Health Ministry Outreach May 18, 2022

Teacher: Allen Wai Jang

Health is viewed as a gift from God and a way of relational living in community. Health promotion and religious beliefs are integrated into the normal cycles of life to celebrate life, enhance coping, wholeness, and improve community well-being. I will use Tai Chi and Qigong exercises as a model to illustrate intentional contextual practices that can foster a congregation’s sense of mutual dependence and foster persons’ ability to both give and receive care.

There Was a Man Who Had Two Sons May 18, 2022

Teacher: Dave Altizer

A very personal reflection from a man with two sons; one an alcoholic and one an aspiring chemist/neuroscientist. For parents and churches dealing with two sons, and with Luke 15 as a backdrop, this session aims to offer hope, partnership, and encouragement from a man who is still on the journey with his two sons.

Transforming Anemic Kingdom Imaginations May 18, 2022

Teacher: Cheryl Russell

A message from Ephesians 2 about the possibility of cultivating a new Kingdom imagination that reflects the fullness of God.

The Deconstruction of Faith May 18, 2022

Teachers: Chris Goldman, Piper Ditzler

Deconstruction of faith is a critical discussion in our time impacting everyone. Reconstruction of relationships seems out of reach to so many. Division and disbelief is running rampant. Avoiding the conversation is simply not an option. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings, the Northwest Church Worship Band and Chris Goldman will explore these two topics through scripture, story, music, live art, and suggestions for a more hopeful tomorrow. (Wednesday - Deconstruction; Thursday - Reconstruction).

Who Decides Who Decides? May 18, 2022

Teachers: Greg Anderson, Grady King, Doug Peters

HOPE Network leaders discuss leadership structure in Churches of Christ: assumptions, frustrations, and a biblical model of gift-based shared leadership. Polity angst is one of the top reasons for a minister’s transition resulting in congregations yearning for solidarity, health, and growth.

Sacred Wonder and Radical Amazement May 17, 2022

Teacher: Richard Beck

Surveys declare that America is now officially a "post-Christian" nation. Churches are in numerical decline and the faith is failing to pass on to our children. How do we proclaim the gospel to a skeptical, disbelieving world? Join Richard Beck to learn how recovering sacred wonder and radical amazement can revitalize faith in a faithless world.

Campus Ministers’ Waters of Life May 17, 2022

Teachers: Melvina Brown, Hannah Parmelee

As campus ministers, we generously give students our time, emotional energy, and wisdom, and our life with God. Our lives with God must be constantly refreshed with the Divine Life. When they aren’t, we are weary, burdened, and burnt-out, and our families and ministries suffer along with us. “Campus Ministers’ Waters of Life” is time to renew in the abundant waters of God. We will look at the soil of our souls, the care they need, catch a vision for more of life with God, and pray for one another.

Preaching Through a Pandemic May 17, 2022

Teacher: Pat Bills

Panelists: Sara Barton, Randy Harris, Amy Bost Henegar

That churches have been through an unprecedented season of heartache and turmoil is no secret. And preachers have felt the weight of loss, the challenge of meeting high expectations, and a pressure to hold “all the things” together. Join us for a workshop that will offer you hope and encouragement for the task of preaching and leading. Come and be reminded of your call and gospel conviction.

The Church as Storyteller and the Allure of History May 17, 2022

Teacher: Jerry Rushford

Panelists: Wes Crawford, Dyron Daughrity, Jamey Gorman, John Mark Hicks, Loretta Hunnicutt, Stanley Talbert

This workshop will encourage a conversation on the many different categories in Restoration history that attract us and compel us to research and write about them. It might also lead to a discussion about which categories have been neglected in our storytelling, and make suggestions for new categories in future publications.

Connecting Kids to God’s Story May 17, 2022

Teachers: Marian and Tim Parker

We are all born with a desire to connect to The One who desires us the most. The richness and diversity in God's creation speaks to each child, but not every child experiences or learns in the exact same way. We will explore the ideas and truths in the stories found in scripture using a variety of different methods—science, art, games, drama, history, and storytelling—to help you, your volunteers, and your students find their unique place in the greatest story of all.

When Jesus Comes to Dinner May 17, 2022

Teachers: Leonard Allen, Darryl Tippens

The weekly observance of the Lord's Supper has long been a key identity marker of Churches of Christ, yet even as the practice has been forcefully defended as an essential ordinance of the church, for many believers the spiritual power and purpose of communion have been mysteriously reduced. “When Jesus Comes to Dinner” will explore the Bible’s and the ancient church’s rich and multifaceted understanding of the Eucharist with a call to restore its fuller meaning. The session will invite participants to join in crafting fresh language for creative communion services.

Becoming a Discipling Church May 17, 2022

Teachers: Sandy Johnson, Dusty Rush

Ministry in 2022 is hard. Many church leaders are overwhelmed with the, now seemingly impossible task of gathering Christians for one hour each week. Creating onramps for engaging these same Christians in substantive discipling can seem all but impossible. In this session, we want to claim that discipling is not dead while exploring together practical ways churches can train followers of Jesus to fully participate with God in missional living.

The Journey of the Soul May 17, 2022

Teacher: Claire Allensworth

How does the soul develop and change? Do we have a vision for how intimacy with God can grow throughout our lifetime? How can we assist others into a more soul-full life with God? Join us as we consider the journey of the soul as modeled by Saint Teresa of Avila and consider key questions, challenges, and opportunities at each stage of our dynamic life with God.

Christians are Desperate for the Holy Spirit May 17, 2022

Teacher: Jay Hawkins

Christians have become more comfortable talking about the Holy Spirit yet something is amiss. Why has our current church and cultural situation caused an increased thirst for the Spirit? What practical steps forward can we take?

Community That Can Row North May 17, 2022

Teacher: Rhonda Lowry

Characteristics of Christian community that can sustain itself while rowing against the current

Hope Knows No Defeat May 17, 2022

Teacher: Jim Martin

Many Christians, including ministers and other church leaders, describe the last two years as being very hard. Yet, this is the time to be intentional regarding practices and habits that can give us strength and courage. This class will offer something helpful for all us who want to live as a people of hope.

Healing the Roots of Discrimination May 17, 2022

Teacher: Todd Lollar

Todd shares his discovery of the three roots of discrimination found within the church. In his bestselling book, Weak is the New Strong, he guides readers down the path of self-discovery as he shares his personal story of revelation upon realizing that God’s power is displayed through his weakness, Cerebral Palsy. In this session, Todd will not only help attendees discover how God’s power is displayed through their own weakness, he will also discuss the implications of not viewing others in that light. As he shares in his book, he experiences the most discrimination within the church, and in this session he will help you learn how to heal the roots of that discrimination for all involved.

Encountering God Through Scripture Prayer Practices May 17, 2022

Teacher: Falon Barton

While reading the Bible for information is important, the story of the Bible is meant to help us experience the living God. We will learn five spiritual practices that give us a more holistic understanding of the Bible and, most importantly, draw us deeper into the presence of God. For anyone who leads small groups or teaches Bible classes — or who wants to breathe new life into their own Bible study — these practices will help the Bible come alive in whole new ways.

Step Outside the Box May 17, 2022

Teacher: Tiffany Dahlman

Tiffany is the pulpit minister of a church with an open pulpit. How does this work? What are the benefits of equipping a variety of voices from within the congregation to preach the Sunday sermon? These and other questions, like, "How do I convince my elders that I'm not taking a week off if we open the pulpit?" will be answered in this session that has applicability for church members, church leaders, and preachers alike.

Five Surefire Steps to Renew Your Church...Though It May Die in the Process May 17, 2022

Teacher: Jason Locke

Navigating Polarizing Relationships May 17, 2022

Teacher: Kelly Haer

Are differences polarizing your relationships with family, friends, or co-workers? Are you struggling to interact with others and make sense of situations when you don't see eye-to-eye? This workshop will equip you to categorize types of differences and identify the varied relational impacts amidst these dynamics. Having named the relational landscape, you’ll learn to apply a framework for emotional-relational health that will empower you to maximize relational connection and satisfaction among polarized relationships. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family.

Ministry Hacks May 12, 2022

Teacher: Jacob Parnell

"90% of ministry is stealing other people's good ideas."–my buddy Allyn Bradley. If you're doing ministry in a church with a small team (or no team), come hear some ways that you can multiply ministry resources and opportunities simply by being connected with other ministers and helping organizations. I'll share some stories of how networking has blessed the 75-member northern California church where I serve and give attendees the chance to share their networking success stories as well. It's a collaborative session about the value and necessity of collaborating!

Evolution and the Pandemic May 12, 2022

Teacher: Janet Ray

For decades, people of faith have been told that that evolution is a lie. In order to sustain the ruse, scientists must hide evidence for creation and refuse to publish intelligent design articles in journals. If we believe that scientists aren’t telling us the truth regarding evolution, it is not a stretch to believe that scientists are trying to deceive us in other things. We are now reaping the consequences of decades of science denial in the response of far too many Christians during the COVID19 pandemic. This presentation explores the impact of science denial on the Christian witness.

Rhetorical Analysis of a Controversial Sermon May 12, 2022

Teacher: Grace Hall

In 2014, the Campbell Church of Christ made the decision to add an instrumental service on Sunday mornings. In preparation for this move, the preaching minister gave a sermon that wrestled with the Biblical, theological, and doctrinal history of the a cappella tradition in the churches of Christ. This session will break down the rhetorical strategies used to navigate such a charged topic and provide a roadmap for others who need to address similarly difficult topics.

Bridges Out of Poverty May 12, 2022

Teacher: Jessica Knapp

One result of the financial insecurity of the last several months has been an increase in the number of homeless and at-risk families. We will explore what steps we as the church can take to help our neighbors in need. We will talk about the difficulties of dealing with mental health issues, systemic struggles faced by our friends as well as finding the balance between helping and hurting.

Already But Not Yet May 12, 2022

Teacher: Jack Williamson

At the beginning of Jesus' ministry years, both Matthew and Mark tell us that he began saying: “Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand.” Teaching his disciples, he famously prays, ”Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Within a few years after the death and resurrection of Jesus, Paul is writing letters and planting churches. Standing on the shoulders of Jesus, he carries on this message of a Kingdom that has already come with power but has not yet been fully realized. It is God’s kingdom. It is the legacy to which we are called. It is the power to set us free and change the world one faithful person at a time.

When Your Adult Child Leaves the Faith May 12, 2022

Teachers: Woody and Judy Square

Questions and doubts fill our minds when we discover that our adult child has left the faith: What did I do wrong? Will I lose my credibility as a church leader? How do I respond when people ask about my child? Do I keep trying with my child? How? This class is an honest exploration of the thoughts, feelings, and struggles we have when our children reject the faith of their childhood and some coping skills/strategies from a couple who is in the thick of this difficult journey.

Gospel Culture May 12, 2022

Teachers: Alexander and Eleni Melirrytos

Embracing God's message on "The Way."

How Churches Can Reach People Suffering from Addiction May 12, 2022

Teachers: Jeff Garrett, Jim Johnston, Ray Meadows

This session will explain the amazing impact that Jesus Christ is having in Huntington WV, the city that CNN, in 2016, called “America’s Drug Death Capital.” God is doing amazing things in The Movement that is transforming the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Hundreds of people who were suffering from addiction have given their lives to Christ, enjoy extended periods of sobriety, get their children back, obtain employment, and become productive members of society. Rocky, Jim, and Jeff will describe what grace looks like through the eyes of recovering alcoholics and addicts. God is doing amazing things in Huntington WV. He can do the same in your city!

Jesus’ Arrival: Freedom for the Oppressed May 12, 2022

Teacher: Jovan Barrington

From Reba McEntire and Rage Against the Machine to Rabbi Jesus May 12, 2022

Teacher: Joe Neal

In a world longing for justice, poets and musicians become prophets seeking the divine shalom. They long for what is broken to be made right in the world. In this class, we will examine stories and songs of injustice as they point to the Gospel of Jesus and help us communicate the Kingdom of God to a world hungry for redemption and peace.

I’m Not OK May 12, 2022

Teacher: Jason Burnett

Last September I finally went to my Elders and said: “I’m not ok.” Part autobiographical, part instructive, part group “therapy,” we will spend our time in this session looking at burnout in ministry, the terrifying moment of vulnerability to say “I’m not ok,” and how church leaders can help their ministers.

The Age of Overwhelm May 12, 2022

Teacher: Wilson McCoy

Have you ever felt overwhelmed? Have you ever felt stretched thin by too many errands, demands, and responsibilities? How do we navigate stressful seasons in faithful ways? Join us as we explore Scriptural insights, the latest research in psychology, and spiritual wisdom to learn to move through overwhelm towards a more grounded and godly life.

What is Spiritual Direction? May 12, 2022

Teacher: Drew Dixon

Spiritual direction has grown in popularity in recent years. Is it a new fad or an ancient practice? Is it for the spiritual-but-not-religious crowd or can it serve followers of Christ? This session is an opportunity to learn about spiritual direction—what it is, where it came from, who it's for, and how it can be a critical resource for both church leaders and those who are wrestling with the church and their faith.

God is Not Codependent May 12, 2022

Teacher: Mitchell East

The Church Fathers taught that God has perfect joy, which means that God, in his divine nature, cannot suffer. But this teaching flies in the face of a recent idea that God suffers alongside us. Which teaching is more faithful to Scripture? Which teaching holds good news for the suffering of the world?

What Got Us Here Won’t Get Us There May 12, 2022

Teacher: Jarrod Robinson

In a world that is always changing (at what feels like an ever-increasing speed), how can the church find new ways to remain faithful? This class will explore four key shifts that we need to make as followers of Jesus in order to empower our faith communities to effectively reach the outside world around us.

Don’t Squander the Gift May 12, 2022

Teacher: Susan Giboney

This class is developed for Seniors and those who minister to our senior citizen community. It will focus on understanding the thoughts and needs of our vital and precious Senior members and how to wisely tap their experience and skills. The content is developed from research and surveys of current Seniors, who will hopefully be enlightened and encouraged by the topic. This session is part of the Sunset Haven Senior Ministry Series.

Forming Resilient Children May 12, 2022

Teacher: Holly Allen

Our Covid experience has confirmed what we had already guessed: all children need resilience. This presentation builds a bridge between resilience studies and children’s spiritual formation, showing how spirituality intersects with most of the protective factors resilience scholars have suggested. It will also demonstrate four ordinary ways parents, grandparents, teachers, children’s ministers, and others can nurture children spiritually—ways that also foster the resilience children need to face the common troubles of childhood and to persevere when facing more serious adversities that may come their way.

Curious Christ May 12, 2022

Teacher: Michael Chaffin

Of all the methods Jesus could have chosen to implement his messianic mission, he chooses...mystery. Jesus teaches wisdom in the Sermon on the Mount. Then he steps down and embodies his sermon. But he does so in surprising and even shocking fashion. Matthew 8-13 contains constant confusion over Jesus and his understanding of the Kingdom of Heaven. What does this teach us about the Father and the Kingdom? And what are the implications for discipleship today? Come participate in a discussion of our erudite, yet elusive Jesus.

From Glitches to Glory May 12, 2022

Teacher: Robert Perez

After 32 years, Santa Paula Church of Christ (SPCC) has appointed and confirmed two elders. This class will focus on the process of how we moved to being a church with elders, as well as lessons learned and pitfalls to avoid.

”No Other Grace...” May 12, 2022

Teachers: Jeff and Kera Hubbard, Bret Morris

We aim to highlight that through the grace of Jesus we are new creations. Our old rhythms, habits, or addictions will be exposed for the false security and comfort that they are. Instead, through the grace of Jesus we can be made new, seeing and experiencing the world in new ways. The old is gone and the new has come. There is no other answers than Jesus in regards to who can comfort, forgive, empower, and lead us into the way life was intended to be.

The Only Thing That Matters, Part 2 May 12, 2022

Teachers: Josh Ross, Joshua Graves

Love is the only legacy that matters. This two part class will explore what it means to love well and be loved. Howard Thurman wrote, "Love or perish." No human prior or since Jesus exemplifies what it means to live this kind of beautiful life like Jesus of Nazareth. If you want to be a better practitioner of love, these two sessions are for you!

The Only Thing That Matters, Part 1 May 12, 2022

Teachers: Josh Ross, Joshua Graves

Love is the only legacy that matters. This two part class will explore what it means to love well and be loved. Howard Thurman wrote, "Love or perish." No human prior or since Jesus exemplifies what it means to live this kind of beautiful life like Jesus of Nazareth. If you want to be a better practitioner of love, these two sessions are for you!

The Need for Lament in Challenging Times, Part 2 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Soong-Chan Rah

We are living through a once-in-a generation moment. The complex and myriad challenges we face as a church and as a Christian community requires a deeper theological reflection. In this session, we will engage in the necessary social analysis to better understand this historic moment. We will examine the lost spiritual practice of lament as an essential ecclesial expression that provides wisdom necessary for this moment.

The Need for Lament in Challenging Times, Part 1 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Soong-Chan Rah

We are living through a once-in-a generation moment. The complex and myriad challenges we face as a church and as a Christian community requires a deeper theological reflection. In this session, we will engage in the necessary social analysis to better understand this historic moment. We will examine the lost spiritual practice of lament as an essential ecclesial expression that provides wisdom necessary for this moment.

The New Adam, Part 2 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Ron Highfield

What does the Bible mean when it says, “Jesus died for our sins” and proclaims Jesus as Savior? Believers often repeat these words without deep understanding. Many popular explanations of how Jesus saves, especially the role of his death on the cross, appeal either to emotions of pity and gratitude or present a cold theory of how a just and wrathful God punished Jesus in our place to “pay” for our sins. In these talks, I urge believers to move past both of these dead ends and view Jesus as our representative and champion who frees us from our wretchedness and enables us to realize our created greatness. He gives us a new beginning!

The New Adam, Part 1 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Ron Highfield

What does the Bible mean when it says, “Jesus died for our sins” and proclaims Jesus as Savior? Believers often repeat these words without deep understanding. Many popular explanations of how Jesus saves, especially the role of his death on the cross, appeal either to emotions of pity and gratitude or present a cold theory of how a just and wrathful God punished Jesus in our place to “pay” for our sins. In these talks, I urge believers to move past both of these dead ends and view Jesus as our representative and champion who frees us from our wretchedness and enables us to realize our created greatness. He gives us a new beginning!

(IN)Different, Part 2 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Don McLaughlin

The world feels tired—too weary to care. Indifference is a word that is getting traction. People feel that they just don’t have it in them to care about war, politics, immigration, racism, or even re-engaging in a church. What do we make of the indifference we feel, and how do we overcome it to the glory of God and the good of the world?

(IN)Different, Part 1 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Don McLaughlin

The world feels tired—too weary to care. Indifference is a word that is getting traction. People feel that they just don’t have it in them to care about war, politics, immigration, racism, or even re-engaging in a church. What do we make of the indifference we feel, and how do we overcome it to the glory of God and the good of the world?

The Colorful Future Church, Part 2 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Rick Atchley

The church of the future is going to look a lot like the multi-ethnic, multi-cultural church of the past. And the churches that have a future will recognize this sooner than later.

The Colorful Future Church, Part 1 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Rick Atchley

The church of the future is going to look a lot like the multi-ethnic, multi-cultural church of the past. And the churches that have a future will recognize this sooner than later.

Pictures of Jesus, Part 2 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Jeff Childers

How do we picture Jesus? How should we picture him? No portrait of the person Jesus survives, yet he is surely the most frequently depicted person from history. What are the benefits and dangers of our cherished images of Jesus, whether hanging on the wall, painted by our worship language, or held in our minds? In this two-part class, we will look at the most common ways of picturing Jesus down through the centuries, up to our present day, investigating the impact of those images on Christian faith and practice. What values or agendas are conveyed by different ways of picturing Jesus? How true and how healthy is our imagination, in picturing Jesus today?

Pictures of Jesus, Part 1 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Jeff Childers

How do we picture Jesus? How should we picture him? No portrait of the person Jesus survives, yet he is surely the most frequently depicted person from history. What are the benefits and dangers of our cherished images of Jesus, whether hanging on the wall, painted by our worship language, or held in our minds? In this two-part class, we will look at the most common ways of picturing Jesus down through the centuries, up to our present day, investigating the impact of those images on Christian faith and practice. What values or agendas are conveyed by different ways of picturing Jesus? How true and how healthy is our imagination, in picturing Jesus today?

A Love Too Deep, Part 2 May 10, 2022

Teacher: Bobby Valentine

The story of Jonah tells the tale of a prophet locked in a controversy with Yahweh, the God of Israel. The heart of the controversy is Yahweh's love. Jonah find's God's love to be scandalous not because he has received it but because Yahweh carelessly pours it out upon the enemy not only of Israel but God's own self. Jonah is in full rebellion against love.

Jesus, John Wayne, and the Churches of Christ, Part 2 May 09, 2022

Teachers: Kristin Kobes Du Mez, Luke Norsworthy

Jesus, John Wayne, and the Churches of Christ, Part 1 May 09, 2022

Teachers: Kristin Kobes Du Mez, Luke Norsworthy

A Love Too Deep, Part 1 May 09, 2022

Teacher: Bobby Valentine

The story of Jonah tells the tale of a prophet locked in a controversy with Yahweh, the God of Israel. The heart of the controversy is Yahweh's love. Jonah find's God's love to be scandalous not because he has received it but because Yahweh carelessly pours it out upon the enemy not only of Israel but God's own self. Jonah is in full rebellion against love.

Jesus Goes to College Mar 24, 2021

Campus ministers K. Rex Butts, Rusty Jordan, and Casey Coston share a vision for planting new university campus ministries that focuses on leading students to follow Jesus. Discussion includes how to be intentional in making disciples from a foundation of God’s grace that equips students to embody the gospel with intentional outreach as participants in the mission of God.

Confessions of an East L.A. Preacher Mar 09, 2021

This message by Robert Perez explores accepting our calling and counting the cost, with a little “pinch of Latino spice” from 2 Timothy. May God make us all equal to the task of being called and sent.

Undivided: Three Spiritual Practices That Break Down Walls Feb 26, 2021

Increasingly, we live in a world of walls. Divided and disconnected from our fellow humans, from our loving Father and even from our true selves, we need practices that can lead to wholeness, healing and integration. These three spiritual practices are a step toward tearing down the walls between you, your neighbor, your God, and yourself.

Trading Airplane Tickets for Zoom Links Feb 24, 2021

Senior Director of Let's Start Talking, Craig Altrock, shares truths that have guided LST through the pandemic.

3 Things to Get Churches Back on Track Feb 24, 2021

The Yellow Peril Feb 22, 2021

Allen Jang shares insight into your Chinese and Asian neighbors as well as practical tips on reaching out to them for Jesus and some unexpected ways God has worked.

Allen Jang was baptized out of Buddhism/Confucianism by Dr. Carl Mitchell in 1970. Since then, he had served as a science teacher in a teaching career that has spanned 48 years at two public high schools and several Christian schools. He was honored by the U.S. Congress as a National Honor Roll Science Teacher in 1993, and as Ink magazine Teacher of the Year in 2006. He has published a Bible in Romanized Ping-Yam Cantonese and an English/Cantonese/Mandarin Hymnal available through Amazon. He now serves as the teaching minister of an Asian House Church of Christ in partnership with the Sierra Madre and Baldwin Park churches of Christ.

Scandalous Witness: A Little Political Manifesto for Christians Feb 22, 2021

Christian identity is in moral and political crisis. One major reason Christianity in America has been made into a bad public joke is our failure to rightly understand what Christianity is. Refusing to reduce Christianity to any partisan agenda, we must embrace a Christianity that is neither right, nor left, nor religious, as well as the fact that the gospel is inherently political. Our calling as political witnesses requires, among other things, our insistence that “American hope” is an illegitimate form of Christian hope. The United States is not the hope of the world nor is it a Christian nation. Rather, “American Christian values” corrupt Christianity, and partisanship mocks the true scandal of the gospel. This does not mean, however, any ill-conceived withdrawal from, or apathy regarding sociopolitical concerns, nor does it entail a posture of being countercultural.

What is the Kingdom Response to Undocumented Immigrants? Feb 22, 2021

Political and national agendas rarely line up with God. Disciples of Jesus need to know how God wants his people to respond to this crisis. This class will give insights gained from Scripture, firsthand experience from ministry to people in detention and deportation and firsthand witnessing of what God is currently doing in various ways at the southern border of the U.S.

Finding Your Home in God’s Neighborhood Feb 22, 2021

Some read the Sermon on the Mount as a list of impossible standards. Others see it as an essential blueprint for obedient discipleship. But what if it's really an invitation to come dwell in God's neighborhood? Drawing from the witness and wisdom of Mr. Rogers, this class helps us envision the Sermon on the Mount as a creative imagining of life in God's neighborhood. From the Beatitudes to the concluding proverbs, the Sermon on the Mount asks us: "Won't you be God's neighbor?"

Patience That Does Not Compel Feb 22, 2021

The current landscape of many churches is one of uncertainty, anxiety, and anger about a changing world. How should the church respond to these difficult times? In this class we will explore how the early church navigated a similar landscape. Instead of choosing panic they chose a posture of patience. That attitude changed everything for the church then and has the potential to do the same for us today.

Una Iglesia que se relaciona con la cultura Feb 22, 2021

La espiritualidad es un mosaico de historias de la comunidad a través de varios contextos. Aprender cómo la Iglesia puede ganar perspectiva cuando se trata de emprender en una espiritualidad adecuada en la cultura, sin trivializar la fe.

Listen and Make Room: Joining God in Welcoming Children Feb 22, 2021

Jesus listened to those who had no voice and made room for the vulnerable. This class calls us to do the same. Vulnerable children are at the core of God’s mission. Those who adopt God’s mission will listen and make room. Taking up that mission will prompt a revival in the contemporary church.

The Indwelling of Deity in the Believer Feb 22, 2021

How is the Father in the Son? How is the Son in the Father? How is Jesus one with the Father? The answers to these questions are bold and confident revelations which were made by Jesus. The answers to these questions reveal for the understanding of the saints in Christ how and when deity, that is, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit came to dwell in the believer. This is the boldness, confidence, and joy of the children of God.

Navigating the Challenges of Faith Feb 22, 2021

For years we have heard about faith that can move mountains. What was Jesus talking about when He told His disciples to have faith and what was the reason He called them to this kind of faith? We will study this passage from Mark 11.

My Week with Francis Chan Feb 22, 2021

Jacob Parnell attended the We Are Church one-week intensive in San Francisco and came home with a lot of information, a lot of conviction, but not a lot of direction. Do their practices translate to an established church that isn’t ready to completely jettison its church building, paid ministers, and creature comforts? Is it an all-or-nothing model? What am I supposed to do now? This session will share some of the principles and practices learned from Chan’s house-church network and his reflections on which ones have impacted a 70-year-old California Church of Christ. The session will also share some encouraging guidelines for how to process and apply (or not apply) information learned at any conference or training session.

Reading Scripture with the Ancient Church Feb 22, 2021

This session will explore how ancient Christians interpreted Scripture theologically and what we can learn from them. Early Christians took Jesus and Paul as models for how to read Scripture, but modern believers have often been trained to avoid such approaches. For premodern interpreters, everything in Scripture, even in the Old Testament, points to Christ. In modern times, especially among scholars, Christian and non-Christian alike, the Bible became more of a dead letter than a living word. What are those different approaches, and what can we learn from each? This session is based on the speaker's book, "The Letter and Spirit of Biblical Interpretation: From the Early Church to Modern Practice" (Baker Academic, 2018).

Undivided: One Spiritual Practice That Breaks Down Walls Feb 22, 2021

Increasingly, we live in a world of walls. Divided and disconnected from our fellow humans, from our loving Father and even from our true selves, we need practices that can lead to wholeness, healing and integration. This spiritual practice is a step toward tearing down the walls between you, your neighbor, your God, and yourself.

Dysfunctionality, Denominationalism, Division, and Dirty Bath Water, Part 1 May 09, 2019

Fate Hagood

Can the Church of Christ Be Saved?, Part 2 May 09, 2019

Richard Hughes

Frank and disturbing conversations based on the second edition of Hughes' book, Reclaiming a Heritage: Reflections on the Heart, Soul, and Future of Churches of Christ in light of current trends in American culture, white evangelicalism, and Churches of Christ.

Keynote: David and Bathsheba May 06, 2019

Sara Barton

Men and Women Sharing Church Leadership, Part 3 May 04, 2019

Kindy De Long

A three-day session considering a biblical "big picture" of how God creates, sees, and interacts with people not as genders, but as unique human beings. The first session explores men and women created in the image of God in partnership with each other and redeemed into a community of Christ that fulfills this creation ideal. The second session focuses on women in the Bible who used their God-given gifts to lead God's people. The third session investigates the "limiting" passages in Paul's letters in light of this larger picture of Scripture.

Seeking God Through the Arts May 04, 2019

Jennifer Rundlett, Adam Nettesheim

"Cultivating the Heart of the Artist in Your Fellowship"

Join author/musician Jennifer Rundlett and author/media artist Adam Netteshiem as they share their experiences of using paintings, poems, music, and storytelling to create devotional tools for greater connection with Scripture and in turn more imaginative prayer. Guided experiences and resources to revitalize the childlike wonder and imagination in your individual quiet time and corporate worship will be offered. Come and see what the Lord has done, is doing and may yet do as we allow God to speak to our hearts while we learn to seek him through the arts.

Optimism vs. Pessimism May 04, 2019

Robert Brock

Trying to find balance in today's life through contemplation.

The Two Greatest Things, Part 2 May 04, 2019

Landon Saunders

"How to Save Your Day, Your Life, Your Children, Your Church, Your World"

Who are we as human beings? Christians, world religions, humanists, the sciences, artificial intelligence advocates—all weigh in. People of faith are in great need for a vision that meets the challenges of our time, that is intellectually and existentially defensible, and that captures our passion, hopes, and dreams.

The Incredible Shroud of Turin May 04, 2019

Larry Stalley

"A Neglected Witness for the Resurrection of Jesus?"

After 40 years of extensive research, the Shroud of Turin has become the most scrutinized artifact in history. What fascinating discoveries have scientists from numerous disciplines, historians, and theologians learned from their diligent research? Does the Shroud provide remarkable evidence of the most significant event in all recorded history: the resurrection of our Lord? Might the Shroud be the “sign of Jonah” Jesus promised (Mt. 12:38-40; 16:4)? Might it have been used as an evangelistic tool by the earliest Christians? “O foolish Galatians! Has someone cast the evil eye on you, before whose eyes Jesus Christ was publicly exhibited as having been crucified?” (Gal. 3:1). An extensive PowerPoint presentation will supplement the speaker’s talk.

Help Our Unbelief May 04, 2019

Mitch East

"The Glamorization of Doubt Among Millennials"

If you have doubts, are you no longer a Christian? Are you an immature Christian if you don't have doubts? Is there any help for doubters or are they stuck with doubts forever? We’ll distinguish between different kinds of doubt in order to best serve doubters. Through the lens of the Psalms, we'll see the benefits and limits of doubt.

No Longer Slaves, Part 2 May 04, 2019

Josh Graves

"What Am I Supposed to Do With My Life?"

This class will explore the freedom and liberation promised by Jesus and taught by Paul.

Equipping the Next Generation of Worship Ministers May 04, 2019

Lauren Begert

Join a discussion of three core ideas for raising up emerging adult worship ministers and equipping them for successful ministerial leadership.

Christ, Culture, the Campus, and Your Church May 04, 2019

Dave Clayton

Spiritual Breakthrough, Part 2 May 04, 2019

Buddy Bell

Most of us stay frustrated by lack of spiritual growth. Even if we are growing, we find it frustrating to foster that growth in others. In this class you will be introduced to some simple spiritual tools called Lifeshapes. They will not only spur your own spiritual growth, but will give your church a common language to spur that same spiritual growth in others, especially in discipleship groups.

All Hands On Deck May 04, 2019

Loretta Hunnicutt

"Women in the Stone-Campbell Movement in the 1940s"

El Vergonzoso Silencio Del Rey David May 04, 2019

Javier Villa

David experimenta el privilegio del perdón y explica el profundo sentimiento de su silencio sin darle honor a Dios ni dándole Su gloria. El también explica el remordimiento de su espíritu quebrantado, reconociendo su culpabilidad. Perdón es un alivio, es una bendición que nos trae paz a nuestro corazón avergonzado. Selah es un silencio, una pausa, es el tiempo de meditación antes del arrepentimiento. (David experienced the privilege of forgiveness and explained the deep feelings of his silence, not honoring God or giving Him praise. He also explained the remorse of his broken spirit, recognizing his guilt. Forgiveness is a relief, it is a blessing and brings peace into our ashamed hearts. Selah is a silence, a pause, it is a time for meditation before repentance.)

COC & ICOC, Part 2: The Repair May 04, 2019

Doug Jacoby, Nick Zola

In the late 1980s, the International Churches of Christ (ICOC or Boston Movement) formally split from the Churches of Christ (COC). In 1992, the ICOC was labeled by Time magazine as one of the world’s fastest growing church movements. But by 2000, the ICOC was experiencing an internal upheaval that forced it to reevaluate its identity. Today dialogue and cooperation have reopened between the COC and ICOC. This series explores reasons behind the rift and recent moves towards its repair.

Mental Health and Ministry May 04, 2019

Kyle Sapp

A panel discussion about working in ministry while wrestling with mental illness. All panelists bring their own story and perspective of how they have lived with their mental illness. The discussion dives into how their mental illness has impacted their work in the kingdom in both positive and negative ways and focuses on practical ideas for how we can continue to love and support our friends and family who live with mental illnesses.

A Church Environment That College Students Love May 04, 2019

Neil Reynolds

COC & ICOC, Part 1: The Rift May 04, 2019

Doug Jacoby, Nick Zola

In the late 1980s, the International Churches of Christ (ICOC or Boston Movement) formally split from the Churches of Christ (COC). In 1992, the ICOC was labeled by Time magazine as one of the world’s fastest growing church movements. But by 2000, the ICOC was experiencing an internal upheaval that forced it to reevaluate its identity. Today dialogue and cooperation have reopened between the COC and ICOC. This series explores reasons behind the rift and recent moves towards its repair.

Take My Voice, Let Me Sing May 04, 2019

Jerry Rushford

"Women Hymn Writers in the Hymnals of the Restoration Movement"

Hosted by the Jerry Rushford Center for Research on Churches of Christ and the Stone-Campbell Restoration Movement

Friendship in a Godly Marriage May 04, 2019

Don Rose, Corrie Rose

If you were to name some foundational qualities in a godly marriage, what might leap to the front of your mind? Love, respect, integrity, fidelity, and commitment are often named—and for good reason! But what about friendship? Can we find biblical direction about the importance of spouses being friends? In our opinion, yes and yes. Hear why we believe that friendship is, indeed, a fundamental value in a godly marriage, and how you can, even after years of being married, become better friends.

Keynote: David and Absalom May 04, 2019

Kevin Withem

Seeing the World: Art in Worship May 04, 2019

Kevin Reed

While hearing the Word is important, seeing the Word is also a valuable resource for gathered worship times. We will reflect on the importance of visual art in worship. We’ll also explore theological reasons for the use of art in gathered worship times, offer a variety of suggestions for its use, and provide examples (from services at the East County Church of Christ) of how to incorporate art during Sunday gatherings and beyond.

Staying Fresh in Ministry, Part 3 May 04, 2019

Mark Manassee

"Spiritual Vitality"

We will reflect upon how ministers can maintain spiritual vitality over the long haul of their ministry. Specific resources will be offered along with helping participants identify their unique spiritual makeup.

The World Is Here and We Are Ready! May 04, 2019

Scott Lambert, Kim Lambert

Never before have our churches had such easy access to the world. Join us today as we talk with church leaders and volunteers on how they have put Let’s Start Talking and FriendSpeak into practice at home and abroad.

Fighting Smallpox in Africa Amid Tribalism and the Cold War May 04, 2019

Bee Bloeser

Bee Bloeser reveals a story few have ever heard and that resonates in today’s news. Her family moves to Nigeria during the Nigeria-Biafra war, and then to Equatorial Guinea, a country in the stranglehold of the Terror. Her husband was on the front lines in the battle between human and microbe, but for Bee and their two young children, the front line became the tension and isolation of life under an unhinged dictator. Sadly, she left God out of the picture just when she needed Him most.

Best of Both Worlds May 04, 2019

Sean Palmer

Churches struggle to move, grow, and mature. We are often greeted by formulaic, de-contextualized, corporate ways to respond. This class charts a new path! From ministering in churches of less than 100 to preaching in a church with thousands and a worldwide footprint, come learn from a fellow sojourner what each size and kind of church can and must learn from one another. See how small churches can grow and how large churches can help members feel known and loved.

Honoring the Dishonorable May 04, 2019

Daniel Rodriguez

The Bible instructs disciples of Jesus to honor parents, church leaders, government officials, and others as a way of honoring God. Agreed! But what if these people speak and act dishonorably? We’ll examine the life of King David, particularly 1 Samuel 24 and 26 to illustrate the challenges and opportunities Christians face in 2019 when called upon to honor those in positions of authority (Romans 13:7).

Called to Be Connected May 04, 2019

Melissa Symington

"Talking to Your Church About Healthy Sexuality and Intimacy"

Helping children and young adults learn how to appreciate healthy intimacy and sexuality is a must for both church leaders and parents. Mixed messages from TV, social media, and peers often cause confusion about healthy intimacy and open doors for unhealthy sexual relationships and faulty beliefs. Learn how to talk about intimacy at its best to encourage children and young adults to build a solid foundation for marriage. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family

Hope and Healing for Veterans May 04, 2019

Terry Smith, Larry Malone

It is a tragic reality that military veterans and active servicepeople take their own lives nearly every hour of each day. The reasons are complex, but trauma can penetrate the mind, heart, and soul in ways that even our best counseling, medications, and compassionate outreach cannot relieve. Suicide becomes the final option as hope for healing wanes and dies. Learn how to bring people without hope to a place of light, love, and healing. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family

The Argument For Marriage May 04, 2019

Terry Hargrave, Sharon Hargrave

The number of people getting married today is shrinking, and the age at which people marry is getting older all the time. Many young adults don’t understand how marriage can be life giving and contribute to life satisfaction and happiness. Come learn five easy tips that promote marriage in a culture that, even though statistics show most people desire lifelong commitments in relationship, appears to be marriage wary. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family

Changing Us May 04, 2019

Terry Hargrave, Sharon Hargrave

"A New Perspective on Marriage"

While we often believe that marriage is designed for us to help our partner see how he or she needs to change, the truth is that marriage changes us. Embracing the fact that change is good and leads to more peaceful and productive lives helps couples relax in their differences, conflicts, and struggles. This workshop is designed for couples who want to continue to grow in their own relationships or for those who work with young adults who lean toward cohabitation rather than marriage. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family

Keynote: David and Mephibosheth May 04, 2019

Jacob Parnell

That Sounds Great But It Won't Work Here, Part 3 May 04, 2019

Dan Bouchelle, Caleb Southerland

"Practical Disciple-Making Steps Anyone Can Take in Any Church"

Disciple-making movements have been producing stunning numbers around the world, but can the same thing happen in North America? Too often when people hear about what God is doing around the world, they respond with “That sounds great, but it won’t work here.” Is that true? We will discuss the phenomenon of disciple-making movements and how churches in the US can begin to see similar things happening. Hosted by Mission Resource Network

Africa Is Listening May 04, 2019

Edet Udofia

The Next Generation Speaks May 04, 2019

Host: Jeff Walling

Ambassadors from Pepperdine's 2019 Next Gen Preacher Search share their messages.

The Bible is Clear, Right? May 04, 2019

Mark Hadley

"A Conversation on How Scripture Speaks to the LGBTQ+ Conversation"

Many Christians consider the biblical text to be the central and final authority in matters of faith and life. So what does the Bible say (or not say) about sexuality, particularly LGBTQ+ sexuality? Join us in exploring and asking questions about some of the most commonly discussed biblical passages.

Keynote: David and His Mighty Men May 04, 2019

Taylor Walling

Congregational Prayer May 04, 2019

Ann Bayliss

"Nowhere to Go but Up"

Moving from the “church prayer meeting” to meeting with God as the church.

Shipmates and Communion Plates May 04, 2019

Kevin Wilkinson

"A Navy Chaplain’s Ministry About Faith on the High Seas and Returning Home"

Do you want to better connect with military service members or veterans at your local church? Navy chaplain Kevin Wilkinson explores the world of military life, chaplaincy, and seeking faith overseas.

Keynote: David and His God May 04, 2019

Jerry Taylor

David's Blended Family May 04, 2019

Steve Tyree, Daltrey Tyree

"How Faith Makes or Breaks Relationship"

This class explores the impact of faith on parents and children of blended families, using the family of David as a case study. The instructors will incorporate contemporary research regarding the dynamics of foster families, adoptive families, and families of re-marriage. This session will also offer practical applications for families in your congregation.

Don't Go It Alone, Part 2 May 04, 2019

Mic Biesboer, Ben Fike, Eric Gentry

"Spiritual Friendships for the Sake of Ministry and Sanity"

Leadership is lonely, and for many, ministry is even lonelier. But it doesn’t have to be. Come hear the story of three ministers, separated by hundreds of miles, who set about to create a covenant community to guard their souls and nourish their ministries. Ben Fike, Mic Biesboer, and Eric Gentry will also provide practical advice for those eager to form their own spiritual friendships.

God Over Good, Part 2 May 04, 2019

Luke Norsworthy

In a world that is messy and a church that is imperfect, it's easy to lose faith. But that doesn't mean we have to lose God. Perhaps our idealized expectations are just plain wrong. Join a discussion of how Christians and skeptics can trade their confinement of God to an anemic definition of good for confidence in the God who is present in everything, including our suffering.

How Elders Decide, Part 2 May 04, 2019

Jarrod Robinson

"The Factors that Guide Church Leaders in Times of Change"

Women in Roles of Congregational Leadership, Part 3 May 04, 2019

Sheila Bost, Amy Bost Henegar

"How Two Congregations Navigated the Change"

Churches of Christ around the world are rethinking a Biblical view of gender. Many of these congregations have reached the conclusion that significant changes must be made—that churches must transition their leadership and worship styles from traditional patriarchy to a model of Spirit-empowered mutuality. And while a congregation may be thoroughly convinced that it wants to see more women in leadership, the process of change is complicated. It is helpful to hear from other churches who have made the journey and to learn from their experiences. A panel of leaders and members of two different congregations—one on the West Coast and one on the East Coast—that have made significant changes in the area of gender will share their thoughts and experiences. All panel members will be present all three days with the conversations continuing from one session to the next. Through these conversations, the panelists hope to encourage congregations that are in the midst of the change process.

Morning Praise and Worship May 04, 2019

Eric Wilson

Reflecting God's Culture May 04, 2019

Alex Melirrytos

"Overriding Human Borders"

The Gospel in Three Days, Part 3 May 04, 2019

Randy Harris

"He is Risen Indeed!"

Carlos Gonzales: ¡Canta alegre! Sing Joyfully! May 03, 2019

Carlos Gonzales

Come join in a time of bilingual praise and worship. Experience this bilingual model that is being used by congregations seeking to becoming a fully integrated multicultural church. There will also be a time for Q & A for those who want to learn more.

The Most Strategic and Neglected Area of Ministry May 03, 2019

Chris Buxton

College students represent the most available, moldable, teachable, and sendable group of people in our culture, and yet most churches devote few, if any, resources to campus ministry. Learn from a 20-year veteran how a strong presence on the university campus is mission-critical to God's kingdom, and how your church can get involved.

Coaching Can Reignite Renewal May 03, 2019

Randy Couchman

North American churches are experiencing dwindlization. No new news, right? Is there hope? Discover how coaching in churches can emancipate the longings, imagination, and faith of disciples— especially leaders—and ignite renewal for needed changes, resources, and commitments in the way forward. Authoritarian church management cannot equip disciples for crucial, creative “what could be?”exploration or action. Explore how spiritual coaching conversations can infuse a coaching culture in your church, renewing hopes and dreams for walking in mission with God.

Church in the City, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Steve Cloer

"Stories and Pitfalls of an Established Church Trying to Be on Mission in an Urban Context"

No quites de mi tu Santo Espíritu May 03, 2019

Jonathan Guevara

Visceral Sin May 03, 2019

Zach Sewell

Some sins are more deeply embedded in our behavior than others, and such visceral sins are difficult to cut out of our lives. Like other visceral problems we face, we often don’t know how to deal with visceral sin. Join us in a conversation about defining and confronting our own visceral sin and gently helping others address theirs as well.

Big God in a Small Church, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Bryan Schackmann

The majority of churches around the world are what we would consider small. What does it look like to seek God in this context? How could we focus on God's unique calling for a smaller body of believers? Join us as we hear from ministers, elders, and others who have seen God's big work in a smaller context.

Spiritual Breakthrough, Part 1 May 03, 2019

Buddy Bell

Most of us stay frustrated by lack of spiritual growth. Even if we are growing, we find it frustrating to foster that growth in others. In this class you will be introduced to some simple spiritual tools called Lifeshapes. They will not only spur your own spiritual growth, but will give your church a common language to spur that same spiritual growth in others, especially in discipleship groups.

The Balance of Power, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Kevin Youngblood

"David as Worshiper and King in the Psalms"

Romans, Part 1 May 03, 2019

Ira Jolivet

"Paul's Gospel as Therapy for the Diseases of Ethnic and Racial Division"

That's Our Story and We're Dying!, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Grady King, Jon Mullican

"Dead or Alive: Adaptive Leadership for Changing Your Church’s"

What is your church’s story? How do you tell it? Language matters. Just as we behave consistent with how we view ourselves, churches do as well. The key is adapting to the gospel for your story.

Temple Prayer in God's Great Assembly, Part 3 May 03, 2019

John Mark Hicks, Bobby Valentine

"Grace Greater Than Our Sin"

Keynote: David and Abigail May 03, 2019

David Fleer

Can We Overcome our Differences? Part 2 May 03, 2019

Greg Sterling

God’s Society in Human Society: The Church in Ephesians

Learning to Love May 03, 2019

Tim Hall

"The Perspective of a Parent and Pastor of a Same-Sex Attracted Son"

How do you stay grounded in truth while showing love? Everyday, people close to us make decisions that create tension and discomfort. But because Jesus beautifully interferes with our understanding of how we live, you and I can make a better choice.

Cinco Caracteristicas de David May 03, 2019

Cruz Hernandez

Antes de que David era un rey, era un pastor. Y su historia de triunfo más grande era y fue David y Goliat. Pero, antes de esta gran pelea, David tenía algunos atributos que le hizo el hombre conforme al corazón de Dios. Aquí, vamos a aprender cinco características que David tenía antes de esta gran batalla. Su hermosa relación con Dios le ayudará a derrotar a los gigantes en nuestras vidas hoy.

Breaking Busy May 03, 2019

Phil Brookman

Busyness knows how to breed. And just like the weeds in our gardens, the multiplication rate is pretty alarming. Borrowing a title from Alli Worthington’s 2016 book, we will explore the roots beneath busyness, and the practical ways for Christians today to loosen its grip in the soil of our hearts by using the power of no and the practice of Sabbath.

Yes Or No, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Jonathan Storment

"Everyday Decisions and the Kingdom of God"

Preaching wisdom in an age of foolishness.

Dysfunctionality, Division, and Dirty Bath Water, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Fate Hagood

Fathers, Sons, and Brothers, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Leonard Allen, Darryl Tippens

"Our Journey of Faith and Friendship"

Lost and Found, Part 3 May 03, 2019

Rick Atchley, Chris Seidman

"Cultivating a Culture in Your Church for Those Far From God"

Comfort When the Shadow Falls May 03, 2019

Eddie Sharp

"Encouraging the Dying and Those Affected by Grief"

Design Matters May 03, 2019

DJ Iverson

"Increasing Kingdom Impact Through Visual Communication in the Church"

Something's Got To Change May 03, 2019

Rusty Tugman

"How One Ordinary Church Experienced Extraordinary Revival and How You Can Too"

May I? Reflections on Practicing Consent May 03, 2019

Jeremiah Gibson

Our faith tradition's challenges with effectively discussing sexuality have contributed to numerous types of sexual conflict. Gain an understanding of consent that extends into providing couples with a process for improving their quality of communication and intimacy, and learn ways that we can improve our relationships by actively practice consent in sexual and nonsexual contexts.

A Murder in Music City May 03, 2019

Michael Bishop

In 1997 Michael Bishop discovered a hidden file about a legendary 1964 murder in Nashville, Tennessee. With the help of an investigator, he revealed the involvement of a group of powerful citizens in the murder and the framing of an innocent man. Hear the inspirational journey and difficult choices faced by a Christian and private citizen of whom the Washington Post wrote this way: “Determined to right a wrong that everyone else had looked away from, Michael Bishop became a one-man innocence commission.”

Dancin' Shoes May 03, 2019

Sara Jackson, Emily Lemley

"Stepping Wholeheartedly into Your Future"

God is always ahead of his people, and yet so often we cannot see his purpose until we look back. We will examine ways to renew our faith and walk in hope, even when it feels like God has forgotten us. King David, who danced and wept before the Lord, points the way.

Loving God with All Your Mind May 03, 2019

Matt Dabbs

"The Beneficial Intersection of Theology and Psychology"

Living in an Altared State May 03, 2019

Stacy Jones

We will engage the familiar text of Romans 12:1-2 to gain a greater understanding of what it truly means to be a living sacrifice.

The Gospel in Three Days, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Randy Harris

"Saturday: Waiting and Waiting . . ."

Joy as a Work of Resistance Against Death May 03, 2019

Mark Love, Mallory Wyckoff

What to Do with a Broken Covenant, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Jeff Walling

"Why I Hate the Old Testament"

Ministry Staff Performance Evaluation That Works May 03, 2019

Greg Anderson

Performance evaluations that are anecdotal or are moving targets are a contributing factor to the challenges of effective organizational development. We discuss how to implement a development framework that increases accountability and provides a road map to help your ministry staff enter into a shared vision of desired organizational leadership outcomes.

Canoeing the Mountains, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Piper Ditzler, Chris Goldman

"What’s ahead of us is both obstacle and opportunity."

Shame's Name (2 Samuel 10:1-19) May 03, 2019

Tiffany Dahlman

Faith Fueled in Fire May 03, 2019

Greg England

"A Funeral Director Shares the Stories of Three Holocaust Survivors"

Seeing Jesus May 03, 2019

Corey Trevathan

Under the heat of the Jericho sun, Jesus once asked a question that would forever change the life of one would-be disciple. Maybe it’s the same question that you need to hear today. How we answer this question could help us find our way back into full relationship with God and with each other. In a world where people have never felt more alone, where people are so divided, where people feel far from God, maybe we can learn something from this moment near Jericho when we pray, “I want to see."

Men and Women Sharing Church Leadership, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Kindy De Long

A three-day session considering a biblical "big picture" of how God creates, sees, and interacts with people not as genders, but as unique human beings. The first session explores men and women created in the image of God in partnership with each other and redeemed into a community of Christ that fulfills this creation ideal. The second session focuses on women in the Bible who used their God-given gifts to lead God's people. The third session investigates the "limiting" passages in Paul's letters in light of this larger picture of Scripture.

Women in Roles of Congregational Leadership, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Sheila Bost, Amy Bost Henegar

Churches of Christ around the world are rethinking a Biblical view of gender. Many of these congregations have reached the conclusion that significant changes must be made—that churches must transition their leadership and worship styles from traditional patriarchy to a model of Spirit-empowered mutuality. And while a congregation may be thoroughly convinced that it wants to see more women in leadership, the process of change is complicated. It is helpful to hear from other churches who have made the journey and to learn from their experiences. A panel of leaders and members of two different congregations—one on the West Coast and one on the East Coast—that have made significant changes in the area of gender will share their thoughts and experiences. All panel members will be present all three days with the conversations continuing from one session to the next. Through these conversations, the panelists hope to encourage congregations that are in the midst of the change process.

Carpe Opportunity, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Tim Spivey

"Recognizing and Realizing God's Biggest Dreams for Your Church"

God Over Good, Part 1 May 03, 2019

Luke Norsworthy

In a world that is messy and a church that is imperfect, it's easy to lose faith. But that doesn't mean we have to lose God. Perhaps our idealized expectations are just plain wrong. Join a discussion of how Christians and skeptics can trade their confinement of God to an anemic definition of good for confidence in the God who is present in everything, including our suffering.

Don't Go Alone, Part 1 May 03, 2019

Mic Biesboer, Ben Fike, Eric Gentry

"Spiritual Friendships for the Sake of Ministry and Sanity"

Leadership is lonely, and for many, ministry is even lonelier. But it doesn’t have to be. Come hear the story of three ministers, separated by hundreds of miles, who set about to create a covenant community to guard their souls and nourish their ministries. Ben Fike, Mic Biesboer, and Eric Gentry will also provide practical advice for those eager to form their own spiritual friendships.

Discipleship Rabbit May 03, 2019

Eric Epperson

"Four Secrets to Transformative Small Groups"

Rods and Staffs Don't Kill People, Shepherds Do May 03, 2019

Tiffany Dahlman

Are you an elder, or do you have a spiritually wayward adult child for whom you pray daily? Are you a Sunday school teacher, or a young adult who is discipling younger siblings? Guess what—you’re a shepherd. The church is full of shepherds, but what kind of shepherd are you—a good one, a hired hand, or a wolf? We will examine what David and Jesus have to say about shepherding and apply these insights to typical and unexpected shepherding ministries in the life of the modern church.

Created in His Image May 03, 2019

Ghavinn Crutcher

"Everything I Needed to Know About God I Learned from My Daughter with Disability"

The Theology of Kanye West May 03, 2019

Jason Darden

"A Perspective on Cross Pressure in Today’s Religious Climate"

Excellent Ideas for that Extra Time with Children May 03, 2019

Lila Earwood

"Tips, Tricks, and Tools"

Parents slow to pick up the kids? Preacher going long today? We’ve all had that extra 15 minutes of class time that can feel like an hour when you’ve already finished your lesson plan! Memory verse fun, games, trivia, riddles, and songs to keep the kids engaged, keep the Bible lesson going, and to keep you from going crazy! Join us as we put a few good ideas in our hats for any moment in children’s ministry when you need to keep kids occupied for a bit longer!

The Women in David's Life May 03, 2019

Linda King

Bathsheba we know (or think we know). But the Bible tells of other women whose lives influenced and intersected that of King David—Michal, Abigail, Tamar, and the wise woman of Tekoah. Their stories are intriguing, beautiful, heartbreaking, and instructive.

Creative Connections May 03, 2019

Jack Williamson

"Guiding People to Meet God Through Prayer Stations"

Revisionist Church of Christ History, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Jason Locke

"Race Relations in West Coast Churches and the Power of Untold"

What makes for a dysfunctional, dying church? More often than not, there are hidden, unnamed forces at work that create decay and decline. These forces shape the mythos—narrative, if you will—of a given church. Perhaps to the surprise of many, racism played an important role during the key, formative phase of many West Coast Churches of Christ. Renewing a church’s mission is often impossible until a church embraces a new, life-giving story sculpted by the Spirit’s work in its midst and in the world. Testimony and commentary from experts and church members illuminate the untold stories of the past as it seeks renewal and hope.

Beyond Organized Religion May 03, 2019

Mark Smith

"Confronting Our Inner Pharisee"

LGBTQ+ Primer for Parents and Churches, Part 1 May 03, 2019

Mark Yarhouse

Definitions of sexual orientation, attraction, and identity will be discussed, as well as how stories about sexual identity can drive young people away from their family and their faith and steps churches can take to create a story of redemption. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family

Help, I Think My Church May Be Dying May 03, 2019

Stan Granberg

Lived to Tell the Story May 03, 2019

Glenda Thomas, J.C. Thomas, Marie Thomas

"Receiving Beauty for Your Ashes"

Suffering plays a key role in the life of the child of God and it can serve as an incredible opportunity and impetus for spiritual growth. Join a family of ministers whose many difficulties—abuse and physical and mental illness— and times of despair have granted them the gift of coming to a deeper understanding of who Christ is and God’s intention for their lives. If you are ready to heal, grow, and receive beauty for your ashes, please join this session.

Revisionist Church of Christ History, Part 1 May 03, 2019

Jason Locke

"The Campbell Church of Christ and a Profile of Church Health"

What makes for a healthy, thriving church? While West Coast Churches of Christ have experienced three decades of rapid decline, the Campbell Church of Christ near San Jose has bucked this downward trend. What has been this church’s recipe for continued vibrancy? A panel of current and former Campbell Church leaders and recorded interviews examine some key characteristics of church health.

The Gospel to Brazil and Beyond May 03, 2019

Romulo Fontes

Keynote: David and Jonathan May 03, 2019

Joshua Jackson

How Elders Decide, Part 1 May 03, 2019

Jarrod Robinson

"The Factors that Guide Church Leaders in Times of Change"

Keynote: David and Saul May 03, 2019

Ryan Lassiter

Best Practices for Impacting the Next Generation May 03, 2019

Matt Reagan

"I've never had these conversations before!" May 03, 2019

Craig Altrock, Ben Woodward

Learn firsthand how to equip your congregation through the Let’s Start Talking and FriendSpeak method to have life-changing conversations with those in your neighborhood and around the world. Your congregation can do this!

Gifts + Need = Calling May 03, 2019

Tim Archer

Our churches must develop more ministries that function out in the community. Explore how leaders can encourage church members to discover the ministry that God has gifted them with.

Until Christ Is Formed in Students May 03, 2019

Walter Pierce

In the Western church, it has become a standard position to be in alarm about youth and their continued fidelity to Jesus. As a result, many of us are in despair about the future and the church in America.The goal of churches is to do more than swell membership. It is to help Jesus be visible in the lives of its members. Learn how local churches can help our children and teens become "formed" into Christ followers.

That Sounds Great But It Won't Work Here, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Dan Bouchelle, Caleb Southerland

"What America Can Learn from the Global Church About Disciple-Making"

Disciple-making movements have been producing stunning numbers around the world, but can the same thing happen in North America? Too often when people hear about what God is doing around the world, they respond with, “That sounds great, but it won’t work here.” Is that true? We will discuss the phenomenon of disciple-making movements and how churches in the US can begin to see similar things happening. Hosted by Mission Resource Network

Navigating Christ and Culture, Part 2 May 03, 2019

Josh Ross

The church is uniquely positioned by God to equip its people to engage culture. The challenge is in knowing how, when, where, and if to engage. To remain silent about the cultural climate isn't an option, but how do we navigate this tension? The good news is that the church has navigated this road before, and God is eager to help the church navigate this road now.

Thriving in the Wilderness May 03, 2019

Thien Dang

"Flourishing in Spaces of Marginality"

How do we flourish when we feel like we don’t belong? What do we do when our very own church becomes a marginalizing space? How do we thrive when our Christian neighbors haphazardly lob painful microaggressions and rhetoric? For all types of minorities struggling to survive in their churches, and for those seeking to learn how to embody compassion toward those who feel marginalized, this session is for you.

David, King, and Father: Part 2 May 03, 2019

Tim Willis

David is held up in the Old Testament as the model king, and the long-awaited Messiah is often called the “son of David.” Yet, David seems to come up short as a father. David’s life provides a good example of the challenges some face in balancing their public roles as leaders and their private role as fathers/parents.

You Are Who You Are Becoming May 03, 2019

Jen Hale Christy

Are you in transition? The transition from adolescence to young adulthood involves rumbling with questions of identity. Who am I? What does God desire for my life? You don’t just figure it out once and move on, though. These questions continue to surface throughout our lives as we go through various transitions. Whatever your stage of life, come explore how to be the person that God calls you to be.

Remembering Our Foremothers May 03, 2019

Carisse Berryhill

"Stories of Faith and Courage: Remembering Our Foremothers in the Restoration Movement"

Hear inspiring stories of courageous women in our heritage who pioneered in teaching children, in missions, and in higher education. Hosted by the Jerry Rushford Center for Research on Churches of Christ and the Stone-Campbell Restoration Movement

How Should We Respond to Climate Refugees? Part 2 May 03, 2019

Chris Doran

Experts propose that there will be between 200 million and 2 billion climate refugees attempting to relocate by the end of the 21st century. The vast majority will likely come from the regions where the world’s great cities are built next to ocean ports, and the tragedy and suffering that is likely to ensue demands a Christian response. The mindful and creative practice of Christian virtues like solidarity, hospitality, courage, and justice will provide hopeful ways for Christians to be the face of Christ to climate refugees wherever they might be.

Awe-Fully Wounded May 03, 2019

Craig Brown

"Lessons from a Hospital Chaplain"

The good news of Jesus becomes overwhelming when one experiences overwhelming grief and loss. How do we respond to the unbearable? What do we tell others when it appears that God is nowhere to be found? How can we seek and find God’s presence in the midst of hopelessness?

The Two Greatest Things, Part 1 May 03, 2019

Landon Saunders

"How to Save Your Day, Your Life, Your Children, Your Church, Your World"

Who are we as human beings? Christians, world religions, humanists, the sciences, artificial intelligence advocates—all weigh in. People of faith are in great need for a vision that meets the challenges of our time, that is intellectually and existentially defensible, and that captures our passion, hopes, and dreams.

Water to Wine - Hallelujah! May 02, 2019

Greg Daum

The significance of the first miracle to the ministry, death, and Resurrection of Jesus.

The Balance of Power, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Kevin Youngblood

"David as Worshiper and King in Samuel and Chronicles"

Big God in a Small Church, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Bryan Schackmann

The majority of churches around the world are what we would consider small. What does it look like to seek God in this context? How could we focus on God's unique calling for a smaller body of believers? Join us as we hear from ministers, elders, and others who have seen God's big work in a smaller context.

Discipleship in a Broken Generation May 02, 2019

Matt Reagan

Faith Communities for Millennials May 02, 2019

Daniel Jarchow

"Keys to Creating Hospitable Environments"

Hosted by Kairos Church Planting Support

Can We Overcome our Differences? Part 1 May 02, 2019

Greg Sterling

Universalizing the Letters of Paul

Ephesians

The Climb May 02, 2019

Phil McKinney, Ben Pickett

"Rising Above the Noise to Hear the Voice of Jesus"

Zacchaeus climbed a tree . . . as an adult. In fact, he chose to look undignified among a crowd of people for one purpose: to see Jesus! And Jesus is looking for tree climbers—those who are willing to climb above the noise of the world and allow Jesus to enter their hearts. This session is for those who are not satisfied with a surface level, crowd-based, noisy Christianity, but for people who are willing to enter into a risky encounter with Jesus in order to allow Him to confront them where they are most unChristlike. So, are you ready to climb?

Worship Full May 02, 2019

Jovan Barrington

"Worship isn't just something we do; it is where God does something to us." —James K. A. Smith. Worship Full is when people meet God and leave changed. To facilitate a Worship Full culture, we need to practice worshipful values. Find out more!

Help Young Adults Redeem Their Relationship with Social Media May 02, 2019

Kelly Haer

Social media allows young adults to have more relational connections than ever before; yet this same group has the highest rates of loneliness, anxiety, and depression of any age cohort. Learn how to help young adults use social media and other technologies to build healthy relationships. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family.

Parenting and Leading for Character Development and Brain Health May 02, 2019

Leonard Matheson

The development of the human brain is best guided by character strengths, which research demonstrates are major contributors to adult quality of life. Christian character formation modeled by Jesus should be an important part of every family’s and Christian leader’s curriculum. Learn how to use Christian principles to nurture healthy adolescents and young adults in your family and congregation. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family.

Resilience: Bouncing Back From Life's Challenges May 02, 2019

Connie Horton

Christian people are not exempt from the stresses, challenges, and trials of life. In fact, we are promised that in this world we will have trouble. Learn physical, cognitive, social, and spiritual practices that can help navigate those difficult times. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family.

Dogs, Pigs, and Fruit May 02, 2019

Andrew Hill

"Ethical and Moral Foundations in Healthy Judgment"

Understanding, respecting, and honoring the ethical and moral foundations of others allows you to have healthier relationships with less tension. These practices are especially important when engaging with those who you believe seek to harm you and your message, or who are training others in harmful conduct.

Let the Church Say Amen May 02, 2019

David Holmes

"Reflections on the Prophetic Spirit within the African American Churches of Christ"

Bread with Strangers May 02, 2019

Jeff Brown

The disciples met a stranger on the road to Emmaus. They welcomed him, and when they broke bread with him, they realized the stranger was Jesus. This story is our story, and it’s the story of our church's engagement with immigrants, refugees, and other "strangers." Our calling is not simply to be Jesus to people, but to see Jesus in all people.

The Lost Piece: Disability and the Church May 02, 2019

Grant Azbell

"Why Churches Should Engage Families That Experience Disability Like Their Life Depends on It (Because It Does)"

Nearly 50 percent of parents of children with special needs refrain from religious activity because they do not feel welcomed or included. We will discuss how to think about disability theologically, offer tips for ministering to families that experience disability, and discuss some of the biggest challenges faced by special needs families, as well as equip churches to welcome families that experience disability. We will also discuss how those experiencing disability have essential things to teach us about the gospel.

Life After Exile, Part 2 May 02, 2019

Roger Nam

Ezra, Nehemiah

Yes or No, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Jonathan Storment

"Everyday Decisions and the Kingdom of God"

Preaching wisdom in an age of foolishness.

Fathers, Sons, and Brothers, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Leonard Allen, Darryl Tippens

"Our Journey of Faith and Friendship"

Church in the City, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Steve Cloer

"Stories and Pitfalls of an Established Church Trying to Be on Mission in an Urban Context"

Biblical Mentors May 02, 2019

Jack Williamson

Facebook, Twitter, White Privilege, and Racial Diversity May 02, 2019

Steve Puckett

That's Our Story and We're Dying! Part 1 May 02, 2019

Grady King, Jon Mullican

"Why Your Church Must Change Its Story to Live"

What is your church’s story? How do you tell it? Language matters. Just as we behave consistent with how we view ourselves, churches do as well. The key is adapting to the gospel for your story.

Brokenhearted by Divorce? May 02, 2019

Suzy Brown

The heartbreak of divorce is everywhere around us--in our pews and in our neighborhoods. God calls the Church to comfort the brokenhearted. We have everything they need, and we must answer the call to help. Come find out how.

The "Holeistic" Message of Jesus May 02, 2019

Brad Voss

How do you share God's redemptive story with children who have been left out, left behind, and forgotten? It starts by showing them firsthand that God truly loves them. Come listen and discuss with those who are in the trenches loving and serving kids that much of the world has discarded and abandoned. Join members of the Made In The Streets team from Kenya in learning how we can all help fill the “holes” and share the love of Jesus in the darkest corners of the world.

Stamped From the Beginning, Part 1 May 02, 2019

John York

"Naming My Own Truths About White Male Privilege"

Join John York in an exploration of his own “broken hallelujah”: coming to terms with the myriad ways he’d been given power and privilege and advantage that he did not recognize--but certainly benefitted from. From growing up as a preacher's kid in Churches of Christ in the Pacific Northwest to his life in church and academy for the last 25 years in the South, he’s at last learning the realities of his own existence.

Morning Praise and Worship: Through the Valley May 02, 2019

Jason Burnett

Our situations change. But God does not. He restores us, refreshes us, and leads us through the ups and downs of our journey. David describes God as the greatest of shepherds, leading him through the darkest valleys. Join us for a time of song, prayer, and reflection through Psalm 23.

Lost and Found, Part 2 May 02, 2019

Rick Atchley, Chris Seidman

"Cultivating a Culture in Your Church for Those Far From God"

The Kaleidoscopic Cross May 02, 2019

Gilbert Kerrigan

"Why the Cross Is Good News for Everyone"

Exploring how our Scriptures talk about the work of God at the cross is like looking through a kaleidoscope. If we look closely, we will discover many different ways in which the cross of Jesus is good news for everyone. Join us in expanding the way we talk about the cross.

Men and Women Sharing Church Leadership, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Kindy De Long

A three-day session considering a biblical "big picture" of how God creates, sees, and interacts with people not as genders, but as unique human beings. The first session explores men and women created in the image of God in partnership with each other and redeemed into a community of Christ that fulfills this creation ideal. The second session focuses on women in the Bible who used their God-given gifts to lead God's people. The third session investigates the "limiting" passages in Paul's letters in light of this larger picture of Scripture.

Listening to Our Muslim Neighbors May 02, 2019

John Barton, Edina Lekovic

Maybe the best way for Christians to begin interacting with Muslims is with simple listening. We cannot love our neighbors unless we listen to them, understand them better, and understand ourselves in relationship to them. Friends John Barton and Edina Lekovic talk about faith, family, mission, and life together.

How to Raise a Broken Hallelujah May 02, 2019

Claire Allensworth

"A Worship Experience for Those Who Grieve"

Join us in the sacred act of lamenting before our God. Together we will embrace the heart of David and discover how to grieve with one another for our personal and communal heartaches. There is a place for lament in the church.

Time with the Homeless and Hopeless May 02, 2019

Dan Jocoy

Reevaluating our most valuable kingdom ministries.

Carpe Opportunity, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Tim Spivey

"Recognizing and Realizing God's Biggest Dreams for Your Church"

"I'm Not Interested In Faith, But..." May 02, 2019

Leslee Altrock, Scott Lambert, Ben Woodward

Non-Christian internationals are walking into churches to have life-changing conversations. Get a great overview on how Let’s Start Talking and FriendSpeak can help your church be a part of these conversations.

What to Do with a Broken Covenant, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Jeff Walling

"Why I Love the Old Testament"

The Gospel in Three Days, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Randy Harris

Friday: A Crucified Messiah

Keynote: David and Goliath May 02, 2019

Chris Smith

Jesus, King of Strangers May 02, 2019

Mark Hamilton

A Progressive God for a Nostalgic People May 02, 2019

Collin Packer

Today, nostalgia wins political campaigns and keeps churches from imagining our best future together. Others in our culture believe God and the Scriptures God has inspired are behind the times. Is the best future a return to an imagined, pristine era when things were ideal, or is our best future actually in the future?

That Sounds Great But It Won't Work Here, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Dan Bouchelle, Caleb Southerland

"Is North America Immune to Disciple-Making Movements?"

Disciple-making movements have been producing stunning numbers around the world, but can the same thing happen in North America? Too often when people hear about what God is doing around the world, they respond with, “That sounds great, but it won’t work here.” Is that true? We will discuss the phenomenon of disciple-making movements and how churches in the US can begin to see similar things happening. Hosted by Mission Resource Network

Duct Tape Can't Fix It May 02, 2019

Brice Smith

"Why Some Things Need to Stay Broken"

Women in Roles of Congregational Leadership, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Sheila Bost, Amy Bost Henegar

Churches of Christ around the world are rethinking a Biblical view of gender. Many of these congregations have reached the conclusion that significant changes must be made—that churches must transition their leadership and worship styles from traditional patriarchy to a model of Spirit-empowered mutuality. And while a congregation may be thoroughly convinced that it wants to see more women in leadership, the process of change is complicated. It is helpful to hear from other churches who have made the journey and to learn from their experiences. A panel of leaders and members of two different congregations—one on the West Coast and one on the East Coast—that have made significant changes in the area of gender will share their thoughts and experiences. All panel members will be present all three days with the conversations continuing from one session to the next. Through these conversations, the panelists hope to encourage congregations that are in the midst of the change process.

Staying Fresh in Ministry, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Brian Sandine

Canoeing the Mountains, Part 1 May 02, 2019

Piper Ditzler, Chris Goldman

What’s behind us hasn’t prepared us for what’s ahead of us.

Generating Biblical Smart Trust Between Two Language Groups May 02, 2019

Robert Perez

Generating trust between the English- and Spanish-speaking congregants at the Santa Paula Church of Christ has been a focus of Robert Perez’ ministry for the past three years. Hear about his recent findings from this D.Min. project.

Singing Scripture May 02, 2019

Cory Legg, Greg Taylor

Journeytulsa.com preacher Greg Taylor and worship leader Cory Legg are working together to preach and sing their way through the Bible in four years. Join them as they tell humorous and serious Bible stories and sing songs from Scripture.

For You Need Endurance May 02, 2019

Candace Nicolds

Temple Prayer in God's Great Assembly, Part 2 May 02, 2019

John Mark Hicks, Bobby Valentine

The Impact of Don DeWelt on the Restoration Movement May 02, 2019

Victor Knowles

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Don DeWelt, evangelist, teacher, publisher, and unity advocate from the Christian Churches/Churches of Christ. Perhaps no man in our movement has done more to preserve sources from the early Stone-Campbell Movement through his College Press Publishing Company, or to call attention to the imperative of Christian unity through ONE BODY magazine and the Restoration Forum, both established in 1984. “He still speaks, although his voice was silenced by death” (Hebrews 11:4 Voice Translation). Hosted by the Jerry Rushford Center for Research on Churches of Christ and the Stone-Campbell Restoration Movement

The Time is Now! May 01, 2019

Dave Clayton, Jason Thompson

Ministering to Stepfamilies 101 May 01, 2019

Ron Deal

Although 40 percent of American families are blended families, traditional family ministries and marriage education programs do very little to equip stepcouples for healthy stepfamily living. Come learn what stepfamilies need, the fundamentals of stepfamily ministry, and how your church can help break the generational cycle of divorce. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family.

Congregating with Covert Emotional Abuse May 01, 2019

Annette Oltmans

The physiological consequences of covert emotional abuse are second only to life-threatening physical battery. Victims are speaking up. Media stories and movements like #MeToo, #ChurchToo and #SilenceIsntSpiritual are providing voices for those who suffer from Covert Emotional and Double Abuse®. Learn how to identify this kind of abuse and the most effective ways to help its victims and its perpetrators. Join us for recognition, response, and healing tools. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family.

Putting the Pieces Together May 01, 2019

Terry Singleton

When we put together faith, relationship, time, and effort it is amazing what God can do. Vibrant Christian life is not discouraged by statistics of sagging attendance. Put the pieces together that make powerful faith lived in any generation and culture a reality.

How Should We Respond to Climate Refugees? Part 1 May 01, 2019

Chris Doran

Experts propose that there will be between 200 million and 2 billion climate refugees attempting to relocate by the end of the 21st century. The vast majority will likely come from the regions where the world’s great cities are built next to ocean ports, and the tragedy and suffering that is likely to ensue demands a Christian response. The mindful and creative practice of Christian virtues like solidarity, hospitality, courage, and justice will provide hopeful ways for Christians to be the face of Christ to climate refugees wherever they might be.

Divine Context Discipleship May 01, 2019

Rudy Hagood

Navigating Christ and Culture, Part 1 May 01, 2019

Josh Ross

The church is uniquely positioned by God to equip its people to engage culture. The challenge is in knowing how, when, where, and if to engage. To remain silent about the cultural climate isn't an option, but how do we navigate this tension? The good news is that the church has navigated this road before, and God is eager to help the church navigate this road now.

Can the Church of Christ Be Saved?, Part 1 May 01, 2019

Richard Hughes

Frank and disturbing conversations based on the second edition of Hughes' book, Reclaiming a Heritage: Reflections on the Heart, Soul, and Future of Churches of Christ in light of current trends in American culture, white evangelicalism, and Churches of Christ.

What Good is the Church? May 01, 2019

John Wilson

Safe House May 01, 2019

Dusty Rush

"Let the Weak Say I Am Strong" May 01, 2019

Roy Knight

Faithful walking by Christians during the time of persecution.

David, King, and Father: Part 1 May 01, 2019

Tim Willis

David is held up in the Old Testament as the model king, and the long-awaited Messiah is often called the “son of David.” Yet, David seems to come up short as a father. David’s life provides a good example of the challenges some face in balancing their public roles as leaders and their private roles as fathers/parents.

What Really Happened at Mt. Sinai? May 01, 2019

Barry Fike

Have you ever wondered about Aaron's response to Moses when asked about the Golden Calf? It seems difficult to believe, especially when the next thing God did was make him High Priest over the people! We will explore what is really going on.

Becoming Stepfamily Smart May 01, 2019

Ron Deal

Almost two-thirds of couples under 50 have a stepchild or stepparent. Healthy stepfamily living can be rewarding, even redemptive, but you have to sidestep the challenges and trust God with the journey. Join one of the country's leading experts on blended families to learn key qualities of godly, healthy stepfamilies. Appropriate for single parents, stepfamily couples, step-grandparents, and those who love them. Hosted by the Boone Center for the Family.

Riding the Rapids May 01, 2019

Pat Bills

Managing the Chaos and Changing Currents of Congregational Life

Holy Ghost Party May 01, 2019

Nick Perez

Explore how the Davis Park Church of Christ began hosting worship services and meals for the residents at a local low-income motel in Modesto and the results of their sometimes improvised efforts.

Helping Your Congregation Become a Global Church May 01, 2019

Andy Baker

Surrounding the Wounded May 01, 2019

Beverly Ross

How can we show up and be fully present for those in emotional pain and suffering while still maintaining healthy boundaries? Let's explore some practical guidelines to be in ministry for the long-haul by protecting our values and authenticity.

A Westside Story May 01, 2019

Aaron Metcalf

Westside Church of Christ in Beaverton, Oregon, has been exploring what it means to embrace the LGBTQ+ community for years and has been led by God through stories of grace, pain, and, ultimately, love. Come hear our stories of love and losses as we've journeyed through God's grace and love for all God's children.

Keynote: David and Samuel May 01, 2019

Randy Harris

Danny and Carole Phillips Speaker Series May 01, 2019

David Wolpe, David Fraze, Eric Wilson

Why did a man responsible for some awful crimes become king and the forerunner of the Messiah? Learn about the childhood, sins, battles, relationships, legend, and legacy of the Bible's most dynamic character.

Lost and Found, Part 1 May 01, 2019

Rick Atchley, Chris Seidman

Cultivating a Culture in Your Church for Those Far From God

Helping Children Cope, Part 1 May 01, 2019

Holly Allen

Current resilience literature explores how spirituality can be a protective factor for children in difficult circumstances. The first session focuses on resilience and spirituality in children and offers ways to spiritually nurture children who are coping with long-term illness, the death of a family member, or parental divorce. The second session offers ways to spiritually nurture children who have endured such traumatic adversity as a school shooting, sexual abuse, or natural disaster.

Giving a Starbucks Welcome to Church May 01, 2019

Jon Reed

Life After Exile, Part 1 May 01, 2019

Roger Nam

Preaching/Teaching from Ezra-Nehemiah

Beauty from Ashes May 01, 2019

Kevin Woods, Brenda Woods

Hosted by Kairos Church Planting Support. Ministry that is easy and comes without problems, surprises, or heartburn may sound nice, but is just not realistic or possible! The genius of Jesus’ ministry is that He reveals that God uses suffering and pain to bring us to Himself and to our true selves. Kevin and Brenda Woods will share the beauty…and the terror…of effective ministry that is rooted in life-challenges that are both pain-filled and also deeply satisfying.

Lost on Us May 01, 2019

David Ayres

From our hymns to our mission statements, Christians are notorious for using the word lost to describe non-Christians. The metaphor has become so overused, in fact, that it has become completely detached from its original and highly subversive meaning. Jesus used the word lost as a prophetic critique against the bigotry of religious leaders, but we’ve turned it into a mildly pejorative term for outsiders. As we reconsider this biblical metaphor, we will discover a startlingly urgent message for us today.

It Seemed Good to the Holy Spirit and to Us, Part 2 (Luke's Church in the Power of the Spirit) May 10, 2018

Mark Love

What if the momentous statement in Acts 15:28, "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to Us, " was a natural outcome of the church's way of life? This class explores what led the church in Acts to this moment and whether or not today's congregations are set up to experience the same kind of moment.

It Seemed Good to the Holy Spirit and to Us, Part 1 (Luke's Church in the Power of the Spirit) May 10, 2018

Mark Love

What if the momentous statement in Acts 15:28, "It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to Us, " was a natural outcome of the church's way of life? This class explores what led the church in Acts to this moment and whether or not today's congregations are set up to experience the same kind of moment.

Christian Meditation: The Key to Intimacy with God May 09, 2018

Anthony Fischetto, Cheryl Fischetto

Discovery the biblical principles of meditating on God's Word, Works, and Wonders to draw close to God and be Transformed by His power and glory, 2 Cor. 3:18. Learn how to be still and know that He is God, Ps. 46:10. Be ready to experience a 20-minute biblical meditation time during this session and experience the presence of God.

Trauma in the Pews: Long Term Consequences of Child Maltreatment May 09, 2018

Patti Patterson

Childhood maltreatment is exceedingly common and rarely acknowledged in our congregations. Victims of child abuse have higher rates of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) than combat veterans. The physical, emotional, mental and spiritual consequences of child abuse will be discussed, as will potential roles for Christian communities to promote prevention and healing.

"Why Me, God?" Ministering to Those Trapped in Long Term Suffering May 09, 2018

David Berry

One of the most difficult areas in our lives is when we feel trapped in long term suffering. We are filled with questions, anger, anxiety and a feeling that God does not care. Yet, God does care and provides hope to the brokenhearted.

Social Media and Identity Development in Tweens, Teens and Young Adults May 09, 2018

Jennifer Shewmaker

Young adults, Teens and tweens are highly engaged with social media. They use it to construct and share their own identity and to navigate social relationships. Participants will learn about the challenges and opportunities that social media presents and strategies for helping tweens, teens and young adults navigate its use in a healthy, spiritually formative manner.

Uninvited May 09, 2018

Dusty Rush

The one person NOT welcome at the Lord's table...and why it matters for your church

Living the Shepherd's Prayer May 09, 2018

Jack Williamson

Psalm 23 and the Lord's prayer are so well known that many believers take these passages for granted. In this class we will take a closer look at how these key passages can be pivotal in our spiritual formation and relationship with God.

When the Spirit Messes with Your Life: Living the Cross-Shaped Life May 09, 2018

Russ Corley

This session will look at the challenges of character formation for those serious about following Jesus and being taught by him as our lives are transformed through the Spirit while we learn to faithfully obey Jesus.

Building Bridges to Children, Teens and Families May 09, 2018

Thereasa Winnett

Young people are rejecting the Church and choosing their own individual paths now more than ever. In the process, they are losing the benefits the Church provides in helping them develop strong faith foundations, reach their godly potential and survive the storms of life. Ministry to children and teens can change this dynamic by building a bridge between young people and the Church. Learn creative and effective ways to reach out to children and teens in the community, while also strengthening the faith foundations of the young people in their congregation.

Can't We All Just Lead Together? Principles and Practices for Shared Church Leadership May 08, 2018

Jason Thompson

Our movement has a long history of shared leadership which is difficult, but possible. When done well, it is rewarding. When done poorly, it creates inertia, chaos and conflict. We will discuss best practices and principles for partnership among elders and ministers and review models of various sized congregations.

Stranger God: Meeting Jesus in Disguise May 08, 2018

Richard Beck

God comes to us in strangers, but the strangeness of strangers causes us to miss the call to hospitality. Welcoming the Jesus who comes to us in disguise requires spiritual formation.

Disenchantment with Disenchantment: Faith in a Secular Age May 08, 2018

Richard Beck

Disbelief and doubt are on the rise with the "Nones." How do we nurture and cultivate faith in a secular age?

Naming the Devil: Spiritual Warfare Isn't What You Think May 08, 2018

Richard Beck

Satan. Lucifer. Beelzebub. Explore how the names for the Devil can expand and challenge our notions of "spiritual warfare."

Open to the Spirit, Part 2 May 08, 2018

Scot McKnight

One study after another has demonstrated both that the church is declining in the USA and that more and more of us are becoming self-oriented. We are in need of renewal of the church and revival of a Spirit-shaped life. The message of the Bible is clear and compelling, but are we genuinely Open to the Spirit? Many claim they are open but are they genuinely open?

Open to the Spirit, Part 1 May 08, 2018

Scot McKnight

One study after another has demonstrated both that the church is declining in the USA and that more and more of us are becoming self-oriented. We are in need of renewal of the church and revival of a Spirit-shaped life. The message of the Bible is clear and compelling, but are we genuinely Open to the Spirit? Many claim they are open but are they genuinely open?

Tall Tales of the Lethal Sort, Part 3 May 08, 2018

Jeff Childers, Joel Childers

Tall Tales of the Lethal Sort. We have a tendency to fall for half-truths. While these myths may seem convenient, they can undermine a healthy life of faith and Christian community. Even when we claim not to believe the myths, our practices can reveal otherwise. This class examines some common 'tall tales' about commitment, tradition, and over-reaction, offering practices that can remedy the dangerous impact of these myths in our lives, homes, and churches.

Tall Tales of the Lethal Sort, Part 2 May 08, 2018

Jeff Childers, Joel Childers

Tall Tales of the Lethal Sort. We have a tendency to fall for half-truths. While these myths may seem convenient, they can undermine a healthy life of faith and Christian community. Even when we claim not to believe the myths, our practices can reveal otherwise. This class examines some common 'tall tales' about commitment, tradition, and over-reaction, offering practices that can remedy the dangerous impact of these myths in our lives, homes, and churches.

Tall Tales of the Lethal Sort, Part 1 May 08, 2018

Jeff Childers, Joel Childers

Tall Tales of the Lethal Sort. We have a tendency to fall for half-truths. While these myths may seem convenient, they can undermine a healthy life of faith and Christian community. Even when we claim not to believe the myths, our practices can reveal otherwise. This class examines some common 'tall tales' about commitment, tradition, and over-reaction, offering practices that can remedy the dangerous impact of these myths in our lives, homes, and churches.

Keynote (2 Corinthians 3) May 07, 2018

Andy Wall

"Transformed!"

Wind, Water and Fire, Part 3 May 07, 2018

Jeff Walling

"The Fire That Changes Us"

The Tale of the Dove, Part 3 May 07, 2018

Don McLaughlin

"The Shocking Untold Story of the Holy Spirit"

Never has religion seemed less relevant and the church been more essential. Critics rail and Christians wail about the church. Both sense the church is meant for more, so what's missing? Join us for a practical look at how to reengage the Spirit in our local churches.

Keynote (Luke 4) May 07, 2018

Kindy DeLong

Keynote (Galatians 5) May 07, 2018

Jovan Barrington

"Indulgences For Sale"

"You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love." - The Apostle Paul. How do we love and produce the fruit of the Spirit in a world where self-gratification and overindulgence are virtues?

The Tale of the Dove, Part 2 May 07, 2018

Don McLaughlin

"The Shocking Untold Story of the Holy Spirit"

Never has religion seemed less relevant and the church been more essential. Critics rail and Christians wail about the church. Both sense the church is meant for more, so what’s missing? Join us for a practical look at how to reengage the Spirit in our local churches.

WInd, Water and Fire, Part 2 May 07, 2018

Jeff Walling

"The Water That Sustains Us"

Keynote (Ephesians 3:14-21) May 07, 2018

Al Sturgeon

"Beyond Knowledge & Imagination: The Spirit Within"

A prayer to comprehend the incomprehensible? Paul's breathtaking prayer in Ephesians 3 asks that the Ephesians may somehow know the love of Christ that is simultaneously unknowable and tells them that God can use his church to accomplish things that are simply beyond our imagination. How does the Spirit work within us to bring glory to God in these troubled times?

Keynote (Ezekial 36-37) May 07, 2018

Bryan Schackmann

"Alive Again"

Keynote (John 7) May 07, 2018

Collin Packer

Perspective: Is There a God's-Eye View and Can We Know It? May 07, 2018

Linda King

Goals of this class are to help attendees appreciate that our own individual and group perspectives influence how we "read" and interpret both scripture and one another's words and actions within the church and the larger community, and to nurture more reliance on the grace, mercy, and love of God rather than on an assurance that we understand everything perfectly.

The Emmanuel Effect: How to Connect to Difficult People May 07, 2018

Steve Tyree

Stop allowing difficult people to make you angry. Join us and discover God's answer to these three important questions, "Why are difficult people so difficult?", "How do we negotiate our response?", and "What's our plan for the future?".

Peace for Our Violence: Healing Personal and National Violence Though the Presence of The Holy Spirit May 07, 2018

Eric Wilson

From mass shootings, domestic assault, clashing protesters to self abuse, as wounded people we carry out acts of violence in ourselves and violence in our world. The powerful Presence of the Holy Spirit provides healing for these wounds and a means of mitigating these acts of violence. Learn how contemplative practice and the spiritual journey moves us into the presence of Holy Spirit for this necessary and worthwhile work.

Navigating Senior Journeys Through the Power of Stories: Empty Nesting, Caregiving, and Grief May 07, 2018

Ed Gray

The church has a tremendous opportunity to shift its focus from "ministering to seniors" to "equipping seniors" for meaningful outreach and service. Moving beyond entertainment activities and luncheons, seniors have talents to be tapped as they serve one another and others. This workshop focuses on empowering seniors to serve as they move through transitions and challenges in finishing a life well-lived. Seniors and their families will be blessed through conversations including topics such as health, family, friendships, life purpose, lifelong learning, caregiving, grief, and many others.

Feeling Safe in an Unsafe World May 07, 2018

Sharon Hargrave

Statistics tell us anxiety and depression are on the rise. The daily news of shootings, hurricanes, earthquakes, and human suffering reminds us of our own lack of control over our future and the future of the ones we love. As Christians, how do we think about safety and security, not only for ourselves, but for those we lead and serve?

Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage May 07, 2018

Greg Smalley, Erin Smalley

A great marriage doesn't happen by accident. We need to invest in our spouse and relationship every day, but this can be challenging as ministry couples with full and busy lives. Thus, we will focus on simple and practical ways to build a marriage that both can enjoy--even in the midst of busyness.

Praying What You Don't Know: Unraveling the Mysterious, Groaning Work of the Spirit May 07, 2018

Phil Brookman

Romans 8:26 is a puzzling passage. First, Paul says there will be times in prayer when we simply won't have words. Second, he instructs his readers not to fear because the Holy Spirit will help. But third, he says that the kind of help the Holy Spirit will provide won't be to give us better "wording," but rather fuller "groaning." Join us in this session to explore this rich passage and to develop some tools for a deeper prayer life.

Power Plays: Resolving Conflict Between Ministers and Church Leaders May 07, 2018

Dave Schulze

Interpretations of how the church is to be organized and led enable or frustrate a congregation's relationships and effectiveness in serving God's purposes. This class will address ways churches of Christ have interpreted church leadership in contrast to what the Bible teaches and models.

My Forty-Year Journey with the Holy Spirit: Taking An Alternate Path May 07, 2018

Gary Cage

Over forty years ago the presenter set out on a challenging search for the Holy Spirit. What he found turned out to be different from what many others would have expected -- or have liked.

5 Vital Decisions for Declining Churches: What You Can Do Today May 07, 2018

Stan Granberg, Mike O'Neal

The Churches of Christ are closing 50-100 congregations each year--the vast majority with little thought, planning, or stewardship. Whether you are a member of or just aware of a declining congregation, this session will provide practical guidance for important future actions.

Visual Worship: Why & How May 07, 2018

Kent Rogers

The Why & How of enhancing a church service with song image backgrounds, graphics, videos, lighting, and stage design.

Conservative Church or Liberal Church: Winners and Losers May 07, 2018

Joshua Jackson

With such dynamic shifts underway within churches of Christ, does such polarizing political language adequately explain congregational differences?

Harbor in the Storm, Part 3: 75 Years of the Pepperdine Bible Lectures (1998-2018) May 07, 2018

Rick Gibson

The Journey to Hospitality: Finding Our Way Together with Children May 07, 2018

Suzetta Nutt

A conversation about the sometimes messy process of welcoming all children as we follow Jesus together

Recovering the Lost Gospel (Part 3: Good News for the Crippling Power of Shame) May 07, 2018

Dan Bouchelle, Mark Hooper

Brene Brown has helped Americans rediscover the devastating power of shame. But, many Christians don't know how the Gospel speaks to this force, even though the Bible comes from an honor-shame culture first.This class will enlarge our understanding of the Gospel to help us form a relevant message to help people overcome the power of shame.

What Happened between the Old and New Testaments? (or Why the "Silent Years" Were Not So Silent) May 07, 2018

Nick Zola

Was there really "400 years of silence" between the end of the Old Testament and the beginning of the New Testament? Come learn why this is a misnomer and how what happened during this time provides some crucial background for understanding Jesus, his followers, and his times.

Ministering to Millenials May 07, 2018

Stacy Jones

Ministering to Millenials will explore the complex world of ministering to a generation that breaks out of almost every historical paradigm to which we are accustomed. They need Jesus and we have to introduce them to Him.

The Reluctant Leader: Leadership For Those Who Don't Feel Especially Gifted At It May 07, 2018

Tim Curtis

Quite often men and women find themselves in positions of leadership in the church, but feel very unqualified. It may not be our gift. But the gift of leadership isn't the only requirement for being a leader. When God puts us in positions of leadership, he also provides the resources we need.

Leadership Traits of Long-Tenured Youth Ministers May 07, 2018

Greg Anderson

What leadership characteristics typify youth ministers who stay at the same church for at least ten years? How are they able to overcome challenges to long-tenure? What can we learn about their relationship with other church leaders and staff? To discover the answers to these questions and more, join Greg Anderson as he reviews findings from his doctoral research on leadership traits of long-tenured youth ministers in Churches of Christ.

Get a Hair Cut and Get a Real Job: Making Your Workplace Sacred Space May 07, 2018

Matt Raines

There is a lot to learn when you leave the church bubble. This class will explore insights gained by a church planter that reentered the workforce. Along the way we will discover some practical things we all can do to make the work place sacred space.

Surrendering to Hope, Part 3: Guidance for the Broken May 07, 2018

James Agnus, Jr., Eric Greer

"Desert Living" and "Not All is Black and White"

So That's What "No Condemnation" Means May 07, 2018

Scott Jarvis

No matter how big we mess things up in our lives, God has consistently shown that His plans are larger than our rebellion or mistakes. By looking at stories from the Old Testament to the New Testament, we will see just how serious God is about offering us "no condemnation" and a future with hope and abundant life.

The Mystery of Humanity (Jars of Clay) May 07, 2018

Josh Graves

This session explores the endless mystery that is Jesus and the human person by integrating psychology, the Bible, contemporary art, and science. How do we learn to live well in our own skin (what the early church called Incarnation)? How do we engage our fellow humans for the glory of the kingdom of God?

Christian Unity (Part 2: How to Pursue and Maintain It) May 07, 2018

Rubel Shelly

Because Jesus prayed for unity, we have no choice but to care about it. Here are 10 practical suggestions for pursuing and maintaining "the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

Walking Away From What You Know May 07, 2018

Craig Kelley

Walking away from your home state, a growing church, and a comfortable theology to plant a new church 2500 miles from home where we choose to be a friend of sinners

Now Trending: 7 Things Society Ignores About Pornography May 07, 2018

Javon Johnson

To open dialogue about a subject that's destroying our churches.

What is the Spirit Doing On the Continent of Africa? (World Christian Broadcasting's Passion for the People of Africa) May 07, 2018

Henry Huffard, Dan McVey

In spite of political and cultural turmoil throughout Africa, the message of Jesus is taking root in the hearts of millions of people. Join us to find out the key to the Gospel's success throughout Africa.

Una misión llena del Espíritu Santo (A Spirit-Filled Mission) May 07, 2018

Bob Perez

For the past three years, Robert has focused his energies in generating trust between the two language groups (English and Spanish Speaking) at the Santa Paula Church of Christ. This class will reveal Robert's recent findings and his theological justification for what his ministry.

Como niños que confían (Like Children Who Trust) May 07, 2018

Jonathan Guevara

En una vida de Fe, la confianza en Dios es elemental para saber que el Padre proveerá y nunca nos abandonará, los niños no tienen problema en confiar, en esta sesión veremos el tipo de confianza que el Señor desea en nosotros y al nivel espiritual al que nos llevará esta acción.

Finding God at the Margins, Part 3 May 05, 2018

Charles Kiser

God is at work at the margins of society, among those many would least expect. What if we didn't have to take God with us into relationships with our LGBTQ friends? What if he is already there and we simply have to discover what he's doing?

Why the Church is Dying May 05, 2018

Todd Dildine

Since 1960 the church has experienced a 38% decline in church attendance. According to a recent Pew Research poll 59% of Millennials who grew up in the church have left it. This class aims to answer why the church is shrinking and how the church must respond.

Christians Make the Best Atheists, Part 2 May 05, 2018

Luke Norsworthy, Jonathan Storment

We don't have temples for the old Greek gods like Zeus, Aphrodite, or Hermes but we are still just as enticed into worshipping them today. We need to learn to be better atheists towards these gods.

Maximizing the Future of Churches of Christ Outside the Bible Belt May 05, 2018

Kelly Carter, Amy Bost Henegar, Scott Lambert

It is well known that many of "our" churches outside the Bible Belt are struggling. Attendees of this evening session will hear four long-time servants of churches, geographically positioned outside the areas where Churches of Christ are strongest, present their opinions on how Churches of Christ outside the traditional Bible Belt can best position themselves to be used by God for His Kingdom purposes.

Keynote (Acts 1:3-7) May 05, 2018

Dan Rodriguez

Good News in the Marketplace: The Theological Tenets of the Ministry of Landon B. Saunders. May 04, 2018

Ross Cochran

Is there theological support for a Christian message in non-religious language that may not result in churches?

The Question That Changed My Life This Year: Adventures in Redeeming the Time May 04, 2018

Jason Bybee

A question sprouts up from the soil of Paul's letter to the Ephesians, a question with transformative power when applied to our daily lives.

La Bendición de Hacer Discipulos (The Blessing of Making Disciples) May 04, 2018

Manuel Magos

Todos podemos participar en el crecimiento de la iglesia cuando invertimos tiempo y experiencia en la vida de un incrédulo y verlo nacer, desarrollarse, y duplicarse. Es el trabajo que Dios nos dio a cada uno de nosotros y es el mandamiento de Mateo 28 que esta vigente en nuestras vidas. We can all participate in the growth of the church when we invest time and experience in the life of an unbeliever and see them born again, develop and reproduce himself. It's the task that God has given each of us and it's the Great Commission in Matthew 28 that is binding in our lives.

Resurrecting the Church, Part 2: How God Brings Churches Back from the Dead May 04, 2018

Tim Spivey

This thought-provoking and inspiring class will present strategies and stories of how stagnant and struggling churches have come to experience new life.

Salir Del Edificio May 04, 2018

Tim Archer

Movilizando la iglesia para atraer a no creyentes

Made of Mud: How the Local Church Can Support Mental Health May 04, 2018

Jason Allison, Dave Morgan

Combining their professional experiences in ministry and mental health, the presenters will focus on equipping congregations - of various sizes and settings - to support the mental health of those within the church, as well as those in the surrounding community. Participants will: 1) Encounter a Scripturally-informed ethic of care to benefit individuals, families, congregations, and communities, 2) Acquire practical suggestions offered by a network of mental health professionals, and 3) Consider interventions appropriate to their congregation's size and context.

The Ghost with the Most: Spirit Indwelling and Demon Possession in Luke-Acts May 04, 2018

Kevin Burr

Christians have rightly emphasized Jesus' power a) in the Holy Spirit and b) over demons for millennia. But to stop there is to do a major disservice not only to Jesus' mission but to the Spirit-filled church's as well. In this lecture we will briefly discuss ancient views on demons and will compare and contrast three episodes of demon possession in Luke-Acts with three episodes of Holy Spirit indwelling in order to show how God's mission for the church is also, and necessarily, human-focused.

The Spirit of Surprises: How One Cessationist Ended Up Studying at a School of Supernatural Ministry May 04, 2018

Jason Bandura

The Holy Spirit is entrusted to lead us into all truth. He's particularly keen on leading us into those truths we most need but resist. Through vulnerable story-sharing and honest reflection on both Scripture and experience, this class will aim to position listeners before the Spirit of surprises.

Increasing Glory, Part 2: The Spirit's Role in Spiritual Formation May 04, 2018

Kevin Withem

Leadership is spelled C.O.U.R.A.G.E, Part 2: Setting Sail Into an Unknown Future May 04, 2018

Grady King, Jon Mullican

Leaders must have courage in times of uncertainty and chaos. What are the essentials of courageous leadership? At what price? At whose expense?

Dancing in the Desert: A Trinitarian Approach to Mental Health May 04, 2018

Kyle Sapp

People who live with mental illness matter to Jesus. Our congregations are filled with friends and family who regularly wrestle with mental illness. Helping to support them in this can be a long and frustrating journey. It can be like walking through the desert with a half full glass of water. But beautifully, as members of the body of Christ, we do not make this journey alone. As Christians we believe in a God who is One in Three: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. One way of understanding their relationship is that of the Divine Dance, each person moving around each other in perfect rhythm and harmony. This understanding of the doctrine provides us with a helpful view for how the Church can support people with mental illnesses. When our partners struggle to dance we hold them up, we dance slower, and perhaps change the tune entirely. But the one thing we never do, is let them walk off the dance floor. This class will explore how the doctrine of the Trinity can help us love the mentally ill among us.

Bonhoeffer, Niebuhr, and MLK: A Vision for Ministers as Theologians May 04, 2018

Brandon Pierce

Ministry is not viewed as an intellectual vocation. At the very least, theological acumen ranks low on the practical skills of effective ministers. Viewing high-level, critical, and creative theological practice as either intrusive or unimportant to ministry is both harmful to the body of Christ and historically inaccurate. This session explores the theological vocation of ministry in three major 20th century figures: Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Reinhold Niebuhr, and Martin Luther King, Jr. It is for seminarians, professors, church leaders, and church members interested in how the church and the academy can function in a more direct, synergistic relationship for the sake of God's Kingdom.

Clinging to Hope May 04, 2018

Beverly Ross

Disappointed, devastated, rejected, and broken - these are feelings that can overwhelm those of us who are suffering, leaving us void of hope. The pain and anguish can tempt us to give up, give in, or walk away from faith. Peter wrote his first letter to encourage people to hold on, to cling to Hope - the Living Hope. Let's look into 1 Peter to find some practical help for getting through hard seasons.

Our Brightly Lit Cages, Part 2 May 04, 2018

Chris Seidman

There's a theology for technology? Absolutely! Flourishing more and floundering less in the purposes of God when it comes to our relationship with our devices and screens.

Marriage Takes Five: Inviting the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit into Your Marriage May 04, 2018

Don Rose, Corrie Rose

My wife, Corrie, and I, we have always been inspired and encouraged by the well known poem "Marriage Takes Three" by Beth Stuckwisch, which emphasizes the importance of God in marriage. As we try to keep God at the center of our relationship, we see, too, how the Son and the Holy Spirit relate to and affect our relationship in different but no less vital ways. Our class focus is on inviting and embracing these relationships consciously and intentionally in our marriages and seeing how much more we can be blessed by them.

Christians Make the Best Atheists, Part 3 May 04, 2018

Luke Norsworthy, Jonathan Storment

We don't have temples for the old Greek gods like Zeus, Aphrodite, or Hermes but we are still just as enticed into worshipping them today. We need to learn to be better atheists towards these gods.

Jesus On Every Page: Redefining Biblical Literacy For Young Adults (And Everyone Else) May 04, 2018

Taylor Walling

Biblical illiteracy is rampant among young adults and twentysomethings. But what would it look like to read the Bible the way that Jesus read it? How would that change how we taught young adults to read and interact with God's Word? Join us as we consider the radical reshaping of biblical literacy on Jesus' terms.

Ancient Words Come Alive, Part 2: How to Read the Bible Without Losing Your Faith May 04, 2018

Wade Hodges

How is it that the Bible can be both an invitation to faith for some and an obstacle to faith for others? This class will explore the importance of clarifying our assumptions about what the Bible is, how it works, and what we can legitimately expect from it when we read it.

Music, Muscle Cars, and Other Makeshift Ministries May 04, 2018

Jason Darden, Aaron Stevens

A session for those wanting to turn their passion into a church ministry.

Sexual Testimony: How the Church Can Participate in #MeToo May 04, 2018

Jeremiah Gibson

The #MeToo movement reminds us of the devastating consequences of our nation's inability to provide comprehensive sex education and safe spaces for sexual conversation. This workshop will identify ways that adult communities can use testimony as a way of removing sexual shame and reclaiming their sexual selves. Participants will learn strategies for working through limiting messages/negative experiences regarding sex and gender, as well as tips for identifying and communicating sexual needs.

La Iglesia y la Immigración en la Era del Presidente Trump (The Church and Immigration in the Age of President Trump) May 04, 2018

Dan Rodriguez

Back to the Basics: Loving God and Loving Neighbor May 04, 2018

Ryan Lassiter

We want to reach the world with the good news that Jesus is Lord, and everyone seems to have a trendy way to "do church" in order to accomplish that goal. What if we became a community of people who embodied the greatest commandments instead? Let's get back to the basics of faith, loving God and loving neighbors.

Leaving Church: What I'm Learning May 04, 2018

Jennifer Christy

Years of theological education and training, years of professional work and life experience...but what can really prepare you for congregational ministry? And how can you gracefully transition out of a role when your time is up? How do you return to being a member after serving as a minister? What does ministry look like in the public sector? I'm still learning but let's share this journey together.

O.T. OpEd (Part 2: Love at the Margins) May 04, 2018

Phil Ware

Old Testament characters who sing the song of Jesus!

The Joy of Rebels and Warriors May 04, 2018

Paula Harrington

Finding our joy, hope, and encouragement in the life of Jesus and those who courageously follow him.

Neighbors: Crossing the Road to Consider the Experience of the Suffering May 04, 2018

Jeff Brown

In what ways can the "Good Samaritan" serve as guide to help us navigate racial tension and inequality? How might crossing the road to consider someone else's experience expand our understanding of both God and the World? Jesus willingly enters our suffering and disciples of Jesus must learn to do the same.

Though Unseen He Meets Us Here': Where Is Jesus When We Take Communion? May 04, 2018

Darryl Tippens

Ministry Insights from Elijah (Part 2: When We've Had Enough) May 04, 2018

Randy Roper

We rejoice in life's mountaintop experiences - those distinct moments when we recognize the presence and power of the Holy Spirit among us. But we know life is not lived on the mountaintop. Like Elijah, we must descend from the summit and face the discouragement and difficulties that so often await us. What do we do when we feel like we've had enough?

The Psychopathology of Toxic Faith & A Church Plant May 04, 2018

Lawrence Murry

Sacred Startups: The Holy Spirit's Work in Us May 04, 2018

Greg Swinney

Every day is a fresh start for us. We hear about new businesses starting, runners starting the race and the next new diet we will start "tomorrow." Somehow we know when it's time to have a fresh start. The Holy Spirit is all about supernatural fresh starts. Join us in this session to learn about the Sacred Startups of the Holy Spirit throughout the Bible and the potential for new beginnings in our lives today.

Experiencing the Spirit in Ephesians (Part 3: Drinking the Spirit) May 04, 2018

Bobby Valentine

This class offers a way of sharing the reality of the Spirit with people through reading Ephesians. This third class will reflect on the role of the Spirit in worship and ethics as believers embody the life of Christ in the world.

Land of Hopes and Dreams May 04, 2018

Greg Taylor

How the former Garnett Road Church of Christ in Tulsa, OK is continuing The Journey after 50 years

A Dwelling Place: Bringing the Love and Peace of Christ to Muslims May 04, 2018

Craig Young

Craig will combine over 25 years of personal mission experience in Marseille, France with his specific doctoral research to share what God is doing among Muslims in his corner of the Mediterranean rim. As Muslims immigrate to the West in record numbers, hear and be encouraged by some real life examples of love in response to one of the most pressing missional needs of our time. Consider what a dwelling place full of the love and peace of Christ can produce in the hearts of those born and raised in the Muslim world.

Racial Reconciliation: A Millennial's Nightmare and Vision May 04, 2018

Steven Brice

With countless protests, boycotts and views being shared on social media, it appears that the church could become marginalized. Let's have a conversation on what the church needs to do on the frontline of healing racial divides.

Finding God at the Margins (Part 2: Among the Downtrodden) May 04, 2018

Charles Kiser

God is at work at the margins of society, among those many would least expect. What if we didn't have to take God with us into relationships with neighbors in poverty? What if he is already there and we simply have to discover what he's doing?

Tricks, Tales, and Twisted Tongues: Lying to the Holy Spirit May 04, 2018

Trevor Thompson

People lie; the question is always why. In one of the most disturbing stories in the Bible, Ananias and Sapphira attempt to deceive the Spirit. The result is divine homicide. The dead couple no longer tell tales. What does this tawdry tale teach about life in communities of the Spirit?

Unpacking the Rotation Model, Part 2: A Little Something for Everyone May 04, 2018

Carrie Gotcher, Wendy Humphries, Marian Parker

Short on volunteers, kids disengaged, parents not interested, shallow curriculum? Carrie Gotcher, Marian Parker and Wendy Humphries will share their experiences teaching children using the rotation model and how it has brought life to their ministry.

Harbor in the Storm, Part 2: 75 Years of the Pepperdine Bible Lectures (1983-1997) May 04, 2018

Rubel Shelly

Blessed, or Spoiled? Leadership Lessons for Our Times from Solomon May 04, 2018

Tim Willis

There are many striking parallels between the days of Solomon and our own time in history. Solomon inherited impressive wealth and power from his father, but he also inherited a vibrant faith. Sadly, the kingdom and the faith that he passed on to his own son were not nearly so healthy. This class will open a conversation on confronting the challenges we face as we strive to faithfully pass on the inheritance we have received.

Hope for the Next Generation: Lessons from a Young Adult Ministry May 04, 2018

Wilson McCoy

Many are concerned about the future of the church. However, over the last eight years of working with young adults my hope for the next generation of faith has grown deeper and wider. In this class I want to share some lessons learned, mistakes made, and lingering questions about this important generation in the life of our churches.

Try Tears May 04, 2018

Dan Jocoy

How serious are we about connecting people to Jesus?

3 Amazing Restoration Movement Stories that Could Change Our Future May 04, 2018

Stan Granberg

Dr. Stan Granberg tells the amazing growth stories of the Restoration Movement and what we should learn that could propel us to a 21st season of growth

Recovering the Lost Gospel (Part 2: Why the Western Gospel Doesn't Sound like Good News for Most of the World) May 04, 2018

Dan Bouchelle, Mark Hooper

The good news is that the Good News speaks to every world view, especially those dominated by honor and shame. But, most Americans now need help to hear the dominant aspect of the gospel in scripture.This class will enlarge our understanding of the Gospel to help us form a relevant message to the majority of people worldwide and in our cities who come from Honor-Shame cultures.

Evening Worship & Keynote (Romans 8) May 04, 2018

Josh Ross

"Living Spirit"

Preach Like You're at the Areopagus (Because You Are) May 04, 2018

Justin Gerhardt

The landscape is changing and we must adjust. As more and more Americans identify as religious "nones," and as those who call themselves Christians become less and less conversant with the Bible, preachers bear a responsibility to shape messages accordingly. This session will offer practical thoughts on how to make sure our preaching actually connects with those we're called to reach.

The Addicted Christian: Addressing the Opioid Crisis May 04, 2018

Brandon Holt, Jimmy Hurd

This class will discuss the global epidemic of opioid addiction and relate it to the experiences of Christians in our local churches. Brandon will share his personal experience as a minister who was addicted to pain medication and now serves as a licensed chemical dependence counselor while continuing his preaching ministry. We will offer suggestions for addressing the problem and give encouragement to those personally impacted by it.

The Mystery of Creation (This Cosmic Ball of Dust) May 04, 2018

Josh Graves

This session explores the mystery of God and Planet Earth. What does the Bible, experience, and contemporary art teach us about this place we live? How do we learn to enjoy our world for the brief time we have with this one precious life?

Christian Unity (Part 1: Have We Lost Interest?) May 04, 2018

Rubel Shelly

Churches in the Stone-Campbell tradition have an historical interest in Christian unity. Do you hear much about it these days? Should we abandon the plea? Is it meaningful in our culture?

Preaching Today: A Conversation featuring Rick Atchley and Jeff Walling May 04, 2018

Taylor Walling, Jeff Walling, Rick Atchley

Hear two veteran communicators talk about the craft of sermon writing, the dynamics of delivery, using a teaching team, and much more. The session will finish with a live Q&A - bring your questions! Moderated by Taylor Walling.

Our Brightly Lit Cages, Part 1 May 04, 2018

Chris Seidman

We spend a lot of time bowing down to our devices and screens. It impacts our capacity to being fully present where we are. Technology is an awesome servant but terrible master. What makes the difference?

The Next Generation Speaks May 04, 2018

Jeff Walling

Ambassadors from Pepperdine's Next Gen Preacher Search share their messages.

A Hard Rain's Gonna Fall: The Apocalyptic Theology of Bob Dylan May 04, 2018

Mark Love, Aaron Metcalf

Everyone knows about Bob Dylan's "Christian phase," but Dylan's entire career features an apocalyptic faith that makes him both prophet and pastor. Come and enjoy a discussion of Dylan's music and it's impact on Mark and Aaron's life.

Holy Darkness: Walking with Others in Grief and Loss May 04, 2018

Virgil Fry

Being a caring presence to someone in grief is difficult. Fellow faith travelers can be a loving source of hope. Let's discuss helpful and not-so-helpful phrases to say, and learn better how to listen more than talk.

Social Media: The Secret to a Halfway Productive Online Conversation May 04, 2018

Matt Dabbs

This class will cover the habits, disciplines and perspectives that can help you have a spiritually healthy and beneficial social media experience as a Christian.

The Spirit of God in the Old Testament May 04, 2018

Chris Heard

From its very first paragraph, the Old Testament repeatedly refers to a "spirit of God," or "divine breath," or "mighty wind" - a single Hebrew phrase can mean all three. What did the Old Testament writers trying to say when they spoke of a "spirit of God," and how does that relate to Christian thinking about the Holy Spirit?

What is the Spirit Doing Among the World's Refugees? (God's People are Passionate About Reaching Out to the Homeless) May 04, 2018

Dan Bouchelle

God is using Isis and Radical Islam to bring Muslim background people to him in dramatic ways. This class will talk about how God has broken into the Muslim world in a dramatic ways for the first time in 1400 years.

Good Church. Bad Church. Black Church. White Church. (Part 2) May 04, 2018

Fate Hagood

Continuing real talk conversations about the "what is's" and "what ain'ts" of Blacks, Whites, Race, Unity, and whatever's of our "One" church. What's really going on?

Heroes, Hot Tubs, and Headaches: Practical Advice to Survive and Thrive in Youth Ministry May 04, 2018

David Fraze

Youth Ministry is incredible and awful, fun and not-so-fun, rewarding and punishing, great on your family and...you get the picture. Youth ministry is a dynamic roller coaster of ups and downs. Like most roller coaster enthusiest, the more drops, turns and curves the better. Youth ministry will not disappoint. If you want to thrive and survive the ride, you need to buckle up and listen to the safety instructions. Oh, you don't need to keep your hands inside the vehicle at all times. You can raise them if you want.

Spirit-Filled Ministry: Setting Those on the Margins Free May 04, 2018

Ron and Lori Clark

Jesus' synagogue sermon announced that his ministry would target those on the margins of society. When we planted the Agape Church of Christ, we felt called to offer a similar vision of hope to those in Portland who had been marginalized by oppression, consumerism, and (unfortunately) the very movement where we had been leading in ministry. This ministry of the Spirit quickly became overwhelming while providing tremendous blessings teaching us love, compassion, courage, and how to offer a Spiritual presence in Portland and the rest of our country.

Surrendering to Hope, Part 2: Guidance for the Broken May 04, 2018

Sally Gary, Jim Holway

"Grace Beyond the Curse" and "Keeping Secrets"

4 Step Follow-Up Plan May 04, 2018

Jon Reed

This class will share a detailed follow up plan to encourage your guests to become a part of your church family.

Release is Just the Beginning May 04, 2018

Joe and Becky Almanza

Join us as we share from our experience some insights into the mind of the broken and how you can make a difference in their success through authentic relationships.

Elder Selection: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly May 04, 2018

Jerry Morgan, Doyle Corder

We will review different elder selection issues and processes and offer some examples of good process than can be a blessing to your church and its leadership.

Take Courage! Fear Can't Keep Faith from Rising Up! May 04, 2018

Sara Jackson, Emily Lemley

Sisters. Well-loved. But...life is still real with great griefs and true temptations. How do we take His courage when we feel overwhelmed and alone in the dark? Our stories and others' stories shine light on what God is doing to strengthen all of us right now.

Color Blind: 5 Ways To Begin Racial Reconciliation May 04, 2018

Jana Unruh

A Midwestern, mostly white church prays to become 'Color Blind'. Learn from our beginner's successes, mistakes, and take away 5 practical ways your church can begin racial reconciliation. Come and be part of this critical conversation with engaged members, ministry and elder panelists from Overland Park Church of Christ in Kansas City.

The Golden Triangle of Growth: How Your Dreary Spirituality Derives From a Disregard of One of These Three May 04, 2018

Chris Altrock

Life with God is described in Scripture as abundant and dynamic. Yet often we or our churches experience spirituality as dull and dreary. Dallas Willard discovered that the vibrant life intended for us comes through an emphasis on three things. Each is as valuable as gold, as vital as the side of a triangle. Explore this "golden triangle" and discover which of these three may be missing from your or your church's spiritual life.

Awake My Soul May 04, 2018

Jacob Parnell, Kyle Sapp

Explore the relationship between human beings' capacity for appreciating music and the Holy Spirit. Equip yourself with tools that will enable you to communicate with other music-lovers the beauty, creativity, and majesty of God.

InterGenerate: How Churches are Becoming More Intentionally Intergenerational May 04, 2018

Holly Allen

This session will address challenges churches are facing as they bring the generations together and will describe three emerging intergenerational ministry practices.

Good Church. Bad Church. Black Church. White Church. (Part 1) May 04, 2018

Fate Hagood

Real talk conversations about the "what is's" and "what ain'ts" of Blacks, Whites, Race, Unity, and whatever's of our "One" church. What's really going on? Don't be scared. We're all friends here.

Preaching to the Powers May 04, 2018

Eric Gentry

Why would Wells Fargo rob customers? Why would prison guards abuse inmates? How could a Church do the unthinkable? The influence of the "principalities and powers" is evident all around us. Naming those powers, and preaching to them, is the ministry of the church (Eph 3). But how do we begin? Join us for a critical and constructive look at the powers in pop-culture, politics, and the church.

Surrendering to Hope, Part 1: Guidance for the Broken May 04, 2018

K. Rex Butts, Christine Fox Parker

"God's Stories in Our Stories" and "Lost Sons, Finding Hope"

I Have Called You Back...Without a Bias (From Every Tribe and Language-Rev 5:9) May 04, 2018

Eleni Melirrytos

Reaching the Next Generation: My Experience Leading a Church Filled with Millennials May 04, 2018

Caleb Borchers

Caleb is the church planter for a new church in Providence, RI and the majority of the members are Millennials. He will share his experience in leading those in this age cohort which so many church leaders have found challenging. Come learn ways to connect with America's new largest generation.

Recovering the Lost Gospel (Part 1: A Salvation Bigger than Guilt Management) May 04, 2018

Dan Bouchelle, Mark Hooper

As America becomes more diverse and Americans serve in more unreached countries, we are encountering self-imposed limitations on our ability to connect to people from a different worldview. How do you tell good news to people who experience their brokenness as in some form other than guilt? This class will enlarge our understanding of the Gospel to help us form a relevant message to the majority of people worldwide and in our cities who come from Honor-Shame cultures.

What is the Spirit Doing in Latin America? (World Christian Broadcasting's Passion for the People of Latin America) May 04, 2018

Rex Morgan, Nick Cumming

Live Newsworthy with Norsworthy Podcast May 04, 2018

Luke Norsworthy

Christians Make the Best Atheists, Part 1 May 04, 2018

Luke Norsworthy, Jonathan Storment

We don't have temples for the old Greek gods like Zeus, Aphrodite, or Hermes but we are still just as enticed into worshipping them today. We need to learn to be better atheists towards these gods.

Keynote (1 Corinthians 12-14) May 04, 2018

Don McLaughlin

"The Pneuma-Form Church"

In the Power of the Spirit: The Holy Spirit in the Churches of Christ May 04, 2018

Richard Beck, Mark Love

While Churches of Christ have not exactly been known for their emphasis on the Holy Spirit, Richard and Mark suggest now is the time to embrace a life made possible by the power of the Spirit. Come find out why.

Poured Out (Part 2: The Charismatic Spirit) May 04, 2018

Leonard Allen

Membership in the one body of Christ meant charismatic membership (1 Cor 12:4-11, 27-30). The charismata or grace-gifts are richly varied and given to every member for the sake of building up the body. To be baptized into Christ through the Spirit means initiation into active, Spirit-gifted membership.

Ministry Insights from Elijah (Part 1: Confronting the Chaos) May 04, 2018

Randy Roper

In life and in ministry, we often feel overwhelmed by God's calling. The job seems too big, the opposition too strong, or the expectations too high for us to succeed. God called His prophet Elijah to stand amid the chaos of a changing world and point people to God. He calls us to do the same.

Crave: Tackling Teenage Desires in an Age of Authenticity May 04, 2018

Jordan Coss, Corridan Coss

In this lecture, husband and wife student ministry duo, Jordan and Corridan Coss, will discuss some of the most significant cravings teenagers experience. Instead of focusing on the negative aspects of these desires, attention will be placed on their positive value in light of C.S. Lewis' argument from desire. In this light, their cravings actually drive them toward their creator as positive markers on the quest to the One who can truly satisfy them. It will be argued, based upon field tested strategies, that this is a successful approach to communicate the gospel to teenagers in our current context described by Charles Taylor as "an age of authenticity." The goal of this hour is to equip people to better spiritually engage with teenagers whose "attention to experience" serves as their compass to spiritual truth.

How to Lead Without Losing Your Soul May 04, 2018

David Ayres

Contemplative leadership is desperately needed in the church. Yet, it seems that a life of contemplation is often directly at odds with strong, visionary leadership.What do detachment and submission have to do with vision-casting and goal-setting? Is it possible to be a gifted leader and a gifted pastor or are those categories mutually exclusive? Come join us and explore a way forward!

Listen to the Heartbeat: An Interpretation of Landon B. Saunders' Ministry Philosophy. May 04, 2018

Ross Cochran

Landon's ministry to those with little or no church experience has intrigued us. This session is an attempt to discern the philosophical commitments of Heartbeat.

The Baptism of Jesus May 04, 2018

Brian Offutt

What could you accomplish in ministry if you knew that God was with you, that he has empowered you and that he loves you? This class will take a closer look at the baptism of Jesus and the steps that he took in preparation for ministry. The beautiful thing about this passage is realizing that what's true for Jesus at his baptism is also true for me and you at our baptism. I look forward to seeing you in class as we study this powerful passage together.

Ancient Words Come Alive, Part 1: How to Read the Bible Without Losing Your Faith May 04, 2018

Wade Hodges

How is it that the Bible can be both an invitation to faith for some and an obstacle to faith for others? This class will explore the importance of clarifying our assumptions about what the Bible is, how it works, and what we can legitimately expect from it when we read it.

How to Really Succeed in Business: Being Salt, Yeast and Light in the Workplace May 04, 2018

Jeff Pierpont

How can you have a positive impact on your co-workers every day? By exploring what it means to be the aroma of Christ at work.

Reaching Across the Generational Aisle: Three Generations Reflect on Family and Faith May 04, 2018

Susan Giboney, Carrie Wall, Jessica Wall

A grandmother, mother, and granddaughter reflect on their generational distinctiveness and how churches and families can nurture health intergenerational relationships. Strategies for bridging understanding and cultivating appreciation among generations will be explored.

Helping Young Adults Connect with Family as Adult Children May 04, 2018

Kelly Haer

Young adulthood is a time for significant transitions--especially in the parent-child relationship. Help young adults to reflect on their families of origin and take ownership and responsibility to strengthen healthy relationships with their families. Specifically, leaders will learn to help young adults discover how childhood memories have shaped them, develop new insights about their parents, consider the impact of birth order on their own development, understand family dynamics, communicate with their parents, and form their own families when away from home.

Unpacking the Rotation Model, Part 1: A Little Something for Everyone May 03, 2018

Gotcher, Humphries, Parker

Short on volunteers, kids disengaged, parents not interested, shallow curriculum? Carrie Gotcher, Marian Parker and Wendy Humphries will share their experiences teaching children using the rotation model and how it has brought life to their ministry.

Harbor in the Storm, Part 1: 75 Years of the Pepperdine Bible Lectures (1943-1982) May 03, 2018

Jerry Rushford

Finding God at the Margins (Part 1: Among the Disconnected) May 03, 2018

Charles Kiser

God is at work at the margins of society, among those many would least expect. What if we didn't have to take God with us into relationships with our non-religious friends? What if he is already there and we simply have to discover what he's doing?

The Search for Meaning: Preaching Ecclesiastes May 03, 2018

Rick Ross

I once questioned if Ecclesiastes should be in the Bible. A reread has left me amazed at its relevance.

Diners, Delis, and Divine Opportunities: Practicing the Faithful Presence of Christ May 03, 2018

Rusty Tugman

How God uses common people sharing common meals at common tables to change the world.

Partners in Crime: Bridging Relationships from Youth into Campus Ministry May 03, 2018

Jessica Knapp

The transition from high school to college, out of the youth group and into the "church" is wrought with struggles. Together we will explore the benefits and possibilities of youth ministers collaborating with the campus ministries in your state. Specifically, we will address how to help students transition out of the youth group successfully. I will also share the value for campus ministers in taking time to build relationships with the youth ministers in their area. We will talk about how to collaborate without stepping on one another's toes.

Tamar, Rahab, & Bathsheba Sitting in a Tree May 03, 2018

Les Ferguson, Jr.

How broken is too broken for redemption? These stories and more found in the family tree of Jesus tells us God can redeem, restore, and reconcile every story. Yours, mine, and the guy down the street included.

Partners in Grime: A Conversation with the Holy Spirit May 03, 2018

Larry Mudd

The Holy Spirit speaks about Himself and His interaction with humanity in this dramatic narrative sermon based on several passages in scripture.

God's Spirit Vs. My Spirit (Lessons Learned in 50 Years of Full-Time Ministry) May 03, 2018

Bruce Henderson

On the week of his 50th anniversary in church ministry, a 71 year old preacher reflects upon a long journey of successes and failures in service to God and man.

Let the Church Say Amen: Reflections on the Black Prophetic Spirit within Churches of Christ May 03, 2018

David Holmes

How and why has Black preaching within Churches of Christ contrasted with the African American preaching practiced in other faith tradtions? This class uses the African American prophetic tradition as a framework for analyzing the relationship between hermeneutics, homiletics, doctrine, spirituality and politics in Black Churches of Christ.

The Spirit of Truth May 03, 2018

Rick Atchley

Why the Bible Is Not Enough

Wind, Water, and Fire, Part 1 May 03, 2018

Jeff Walling

PEPTalks May 03, 2018

Joshua Parrish

PEP Talks is a series of expertly crafted short talks designed to engage new ideas and generate healthy discussion within Churches of Christ about what ministry can be and about what the church looks like beyond Sunday mornings. You will leave encouraged to see your purpose in the world and the potential for God to do something amazing in a completely new way.

The Tale of the Dove, Part 1 May 03, 2018

Don McLaughlin

Never has religion seemed less relevant and the church been more essential. Critics rail and Christians wail about the church. Both sense the church is meant for more, so what's missing? Join us for a practical look at how to reengage the Spirit in our local churches.

Experiencing the Spirit in Ephesians (Part 1: God Comes to Dwell) May 03, 2018

Bobby Valentine

This class offers a way of sharing the reality of the Spirit with people through reading Ephesians. This first class will focus Paul's understanding of the Trinity and the function of Temple in his theology.

Mental Health Concerns: The Church's Response May 03, 2018

Connie Horton

Christians are not exempt from mental health concerns, yet many ministers and church communities are unsure how to think and speak about these issues. They also feel unsure about how to best minister to those who are struggling. This session will provide a framework to help understand psychological concepts from a Christian worldview and suggest practical tips for ministry.

Reimagining Church to Embrace the LGBTQ Community May 03, 2018

Pat Bills, Sally Gary

An overwhelming majority of LGBTQ people grew up in devout Christian homes, but most have been ostracized, excluded from fellowship. What would it take to make church a safe & comforting place again? In this session we'll continue talking about ways to restore Spirit-driven community for our LGBTQ brothers & sisters.

LGBTQ Inclusion in Spirit-Led Churches May 03, 2018

Pat Bills & Sally Gary

Many churches are still wrestling with inclusion of LGBTQ Christians, wondering how we can extend fellowship when we may not agree on teachings about sexuality. How does a Spirit-led church respond to these questions? Join us for a two-part discussion of extending the love of Christ to our LGBTQ brothers and sisters who are seeking a place to belong.

Mission Possible: Living Out Jesus' Incarnation in Our World May 03, 2018

Hung Le

God is. God works... even in times when He seems to be utterly silent, when the darkness is overwhelming, when hope is merely an empty word. God still is. God still works. Come share in a time of hope, of discovering and re-discovering His light, of sharing in the mission of Jesus to make life more abundant for our world.

Loving in Adversity: Loving Other's During Challenging Times May 03, 2018

Andrew Hill

Family and church squabbles can bring about great tension and conflict. What do you do to live and love well in these times of high tension? How can you keep your heart, mind, body, and soul healthy during high stress times?

Leadership is spelled C.O.U.R.A.G.E, Part 1: Setting Sail Into an Unknown Future May 03, 2018

Grady King, Jon Mullican

Leaders must have courage in times of uncertainty and chaos. What are the essentials of courageous leadership? At what price? At whose expense?

iPhone Production House May 03, 2018

Matt Maxwell

Creating professional videos for our churches have always been limited to those with budgets for expensive cameras, mics and editing software but not anymore. We will explore the latest in iPhone apps and accessories (35mm lens adapters, audio inputs, teleprompters) that bring professional capture and delivery to your fingertips.

Increasing Glory, Part 1: The Spirit's Role in Spiritual Formation May 03, 2018

Kevin Withem

O.T. OpEd (Part 1: God's Amazing Choices) May 03, 2018

Phil Ware

Old Testament characters who sing the song of Jesus!

Beyond the Church's Primitive Vision Towards Its Prophetic Character May 03, 2018

DeWayne Winrow

The session will explore the tenets of Prophetic Christianity as exemplified in the Black Church tradition as cohering with the true character of the Christian faith. Does a primitive vision prophetic in character suggests that there is a socio-religious praxis inherent in the ministry of reconciliation?

Parenting with the Holy Spirit May 03, 2018

Scotty and Tammy Spake

How to raise perfect children... lessons we've learned raising biological and foster children for 19 years.

Preaching and Teaching in Color: The Schooling of a White Preacher May 03, 2018

Steve Puckett

I have lived most of my life with privilege. I grew up in a white community in the 60's and 70's. I now preach for an ethnically diverse church in Florida. My schooling began in a newly integrated school in North Alabama and a small African American church in Mississippi and continued with adopting two African American kids and has deepened through 34 years of preaching and teaching in the diverse landscape of Florida. I want to give you a peek inside my life and encourage all of us to love each other in our Father's beautiful world of diversity.

Here Am I, Send Me! Across the Americas to Equip Women in English and Spanish May 03, 2018

Michelle Goff

Iron Rose Sister Ministries (IRSM) exists to equip women to connect to God and to one another more deeply. As a bilingual women's ministry resource, IRSM's founder, author, and international speaker Michelle J. Goff has followed the Spirit's lead and His calling to reach thousands of women across the Americas. Join us in answering the Spirit's call to be better equipped and, in turn, to equip Christian sisters that can serve as iron sharpening iron, encouraging one another to be as beautiful as a rose, in spite of a few thorns.

Be On the Sacred Page May 03, 2018

Greg Taylor

How one church is "getting on the same page" of Scripture and God is changing lives

Challenges and Solutions of Advancing the Gospel in West Africa: Seeking to be Relevant in our Spiritual Season May 03, 2018

Rickey McWhorter

We often are exited about participating in international missions. But, the questions is, how relevant is that mission in terms of accomplishing the true focus, purpose and mission of the New Testament gospel?

The Culture-Making Youth Leader May 03, 2018

Scot McKnight

Pray Like You Breathe: Exploring the Practice of Breath Prayer May 03, 2018

Houston Heflin

This experiential class will briefly recount the history of breath prayers from the Psalms, through the New Testament, to today, and then focus on experiencing this type of prayer. Participants will "pray with all kinds of prayers and requests" and explore what it means to "pray without ceasing" as a method of training for spiritual formation.

The Power of the Invisible Church (Accessing and Activating the Spiritual Resources of the Church) May 03, 2018

Rick Gibson

Research shows that all organizations, including churches, are held together, not through physical resources and assets, but through beliefs, identity, mission, and values. These invisible spiritual resources are essential to the health and effectiveness of any organization. Sadly, the agenda of our churches today are often driven by the demands of visible assets and invisible mission-less motives, leaving little energy for leaders to nurture the life-giving spiritual resources the give power to the church. This class will explore ways for church leaders to form and activate a creative, dynamic, mission-oriented congregation.

Resurrecting the Church, Part 1 May 03, 2018

Tim Spivey

This thought-provoking and inspiring class will present strategies and stories of how stagnant and struggling churches have come to experience new life.

Ministers in Lab Coats: An Alternate View of Christianity and Science in History May 03, 2018

Jennifer McNutt

This session will address the perception that Christianity and science have a history of conflict and are inherently at odds with each other. Dr. McNutt will highlight lesser-known stories of how Christian pastors have consistently promoted and contributed to the emergence of modern science from the Scientific Revolution to the modern era as part of their commitment to advancing the Gospel. Examples of "ministers in lab coats" can help to dispel the characterization of conflict that continues to shape current-day perceptions and stunt contemporary conversations over the relationship between Christianity and science today.

So You Want to Teach a Class About Homosexuality at Church May 03, 2018

Brian Sandine

Lessons learned from teaching this class in a congregation with a traditional position on sex and marriage

"Get the Gun. Shoot Him!" (My Journey from Menace to Minister) May 03, 2018

Thien Dang

An ex-gang affiliate turned minister, I will be talking about my life battling street violence, gangs, addiction, and suicide culminating in a near-death event that God used to propel me into a triumphant spiritual awakening. We'l also extrapolate from this narrative relevant and applicable theological principles that will challenge and shape our perceptions of societal "menaces" and marginalized people groups.

Keynote (John 16) May 02, 2018

Rick Atchley

100 Churches of 100 May 02, 2018

Jared King, Laura King

Planting churches in Post-Christian cities is going to be hard, slow, and incredibly fun. But it requires a new kind of vision that involves us to think outside the box. In Seattle we have a growing network of churches, church plants, non-profits, and local businesses, who are rethinking what it means to plant churches in Post-Christian Seattle. We will talk through several principals we are learning and discuss how to develop a Kingdom Ecosystem across your city. 100 Churches of 100 is the beginning of a movement awakening in the Pacific Northwest.

We Need to Talk: Sexuality as Good News May 02, 2018

Adam Mearse

There is likely no single topic that demands more headspace for people in our churches than sexuality. Dr. Adam Mearse will explore the necessity for a positive, biblical message of sexuality as a fundamental act of Christian discipleship and witness.

Slasher Film Theology May 02, 2018

Jeremy Marshall

Perhaps some of the most troubling portions of scripture are those passages in the Old Testament that call for the total annihilation of enemies. Some see them as wholly positive, even ethically normative. Others would erase them from scripture altogether. But is there a more excellent way of understanding and using these texts? Drawing on the early films of horror director Wes Craven, this class suggests that the Bible itself is ambivalent about, and even critical of, these texts. When read through the lenses of Craven's films, we find that the whole of scripture--especially the witness and ministry of Christ--questions and subverts the texts of genocide and vengeance.

Holy Spirit Speak: A Word for the Weary May 02, 2018

Thema Bryant-Davis

This session is for those who are weary or who serve congregations that are in a valley season. The presenter, an ordained minister and psychologist, will minister to those who have been spiritually and emotionally drained by personal traumas and the brokenness of society as manifested by oppression, violence, and the toxic disenfranchisement of the "least of these." Using the framework of the Valley of Dry Bones, the presenter will discuss the role of the Holy Spirit to revive and restore the people of God.

Poured Out, Part 1 May 02, 2018

Leonard Allen

Session one: The Missional Spirit The New Testament reveals the Spirit as the dynamic force and guide for the mission of God, beginning in Jerusalem, to Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). The loss of mission corresponds with a narrowed and tamed doctrine of the Spirit. The two diminishments go hand in hand.

An Introvert's Guide to Pastoral Care May 02, 2018

Ben Fike, Blaine Totty

What do you do when you're called to care for large groups of people, and you also find being in large groups of people exhausting? Ben Fike is one introverted minister who was thrilled to arrive at a new ministry context and discover one of his elders, Blaine Totty, was a fellow introvert who has found ways to excel at pastoral care. In this class, you'll be hearing from both of them about some of the things Ben is learning from Blaine as well as some practical suggestions for fellow introverted church leaders who desire to love well those under their care.

Good Work May 02, 2018

Tod Brown

"Living Well in the Tension of Faith and Business"

For nearly 30 years I've moved between the often conflicting worlds of ministry and commerce. If I take my commitment to Jesus seriously, the question I wrestle with every day is, "How does my faithful discipleship get expressed in and through my business?" This session is the summation of my experience as an employer, partner, negotiator, competitor and preacher.

Danny and Carole Phillips Speaker Series May 02, 2018

Ned Colletti, Brian Zahnd

Join us for an exciting plenary session featuring special guest speakers Brian Zahnd and Christine Caine, as well as a special interview with Ned Colletti. [Note: Christine Caine's talk will not be recorded for future download.]

Say Something, Why Don't You? May 02, 2018

Kevin Holland

When referring to the sociopolitical climate of the past few years, I heard one pastor say that it seems as if "hate is winning." I cannot remember a time when the toxicity level in our public discourse was this high or when it was affecting members in our churches to this degree. What makes it more confusing is that Christians are all over the spectrum on this and are not sure whether speaking out publicly against what they believe to be wrong, ignoring it, looking the other way and keeping their heads down, addressing it in worship assemblies, or some other method is the way Jesus would have us respond. What’s the best way to be "salt and light?" Should we speak up or remain silent? What is the Spirit saying to us? This discussion will examine multiple sides of the issue and suggest paths forward.

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