Church and Family Life Podcast

The Family that Sings?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 11 May 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Why has singing grown weak in so many churches—and what can be done to recover it? Host Adam Triplett dives into these questions and more with Scott Brown, author of the new book, The Family That Sings. Drawing from Scripture and pastoral experience, Scott explains why God’s people are called to be a singing people—from Genesis to Revelation—and how singing serves as a powerful tool for teaching, admonishing, and shaping the church. They address men who say, “I can’t sing,” calling all Christians to lift their voices in every season—even in suffering—and charge parents, led by fathers, to teach their children to praise the Lord through song. Our goal should be this—to restore strong, joyful singing in both church and home.

Buy the book here: https://churchandfamilylife.com/products/69b30dbf6a8daf78584b4538

Freedom Isn’t Doing What You Want - Lessons from an F-16 Fighter Pilot

Church & Family Life — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000

What can an F-16 fighter pilot teach us about the Christian life? Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm sit down with Phill Cochran—former fighter pilot and longtime pastor—to discuss his new book, Lessons Learned at the Speed of Sound. Drawing from real experiences in high-pressure flight, Phill shares vivid illustrations that point to deeper spiritual realities—discipline, perseverance, warning, and trust. From “tightening your G-suit” to avoiding the “death spiral,” this conversation shows how God uses pressure to shape His people and prepare them to live faithfully with eternity in view.

You Didn’t Marry ‘You’ - Embracing God’s Design for Men & Women

Church & Family Life — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000

God made men and women different — and truly understanding their distinctions is key to a healthy marriage. Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm break this down with guest Michael Foster. They discuss why men often carry burdens silently, why women tend to communicate more contextually, and how a woman’s cyclical hormonal reality differs from a man’s more stable pattern. Along the way, they unpack “disappointment dynamics” in early marriage, the temptation to despise or judge one another, and why learning to live with “understanding” is essential (1 Pet. 3:7). Their takeaway: embrace God’s design, and your home will be stronger for it.

How “Mental Health” Lies Are Destroying Families

Church & Family Life — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Why are more people diagnosed, medicated, and labeled than ever before—yet no better off? Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm speak with biblical counselor Greg Gifford about his book, Lies My Therapist Told Me. Addressing the confusion at the heart of modern mental health, Gifford exposes how secular psychology replaces repentance with diagnosis and promotes a “therapeutic” worldview that often undermines biblical truth. From the dangers of identity shaped by disorder to the relational fallout of unbiblical “boundaries,” this episode calls Christians back to the sufficiency of Scripture—and the only path to true healing.

The Life Story of Jeff Pollard

Church & Family Life — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Growing up, Jeff craved affirmation from his hardworking, athletic father — a man who rarely showed affection. After being cut from one junior high sports team, after another, he found his place when his dad brought home a guitar from Western Auto. Music quickly became Jeff’s world. Fronting Louisiana garage bands, his talent as a songwriter led to record deals and touring opportunities with major acts like Kansas, Chicago, Kenny Loggins, the Allman Brothers, ZZ Top, and many more you would recognize. But everything changed when he encountered the writings of D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones and was personally discipled by Conrad Murrell. Confronted with the sovereign God of Scripture, Jeff was radically converted to Christ at age 30. A longtime pastor, he served as elder at Mount Zion Bible Church for 23 years and continues to edit The Free Grace Broadcaster in retirement.

What Is a Family? Diagnosing and Restoring the Christian Home

Church & Family Life — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

the last century, churches around the globe have traded the biblical doctrine of family life for worldly pragmatism. This change has led to broken homes and dysfunctional families. To reverse course, the next generation must understand and reclaim what God created the family to be. Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss a new catechism designed to help families in this quest. Using a simple question-and-answer format, it gives robust but concise definitions of what a family is and how God designed the home to function. Foundational Scripture verses are given for each topic, along with family discussion questions and a suggested hymn and memory verse.

The Life Story of Justin Dillehay

Church & Family Life — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Justin grew up in rural Tennessee, working tobacco fields with his father. He loved laboring outdoors with his dad, yet his mom took him and his siblings to church, where Justin heard the Gospel. Around 12, he answered an altar call and was baptized—but in his teen years struggled with his faith. Seeing his younger brother’s own anguish over salvation, Justin knew he had to get right with God. Confessing his sins, Justin was rebaptized. John Piper’s sermons on Romans deepened his grasp of sovereign grace, and in time he committed his life to pastoral ministry. Husband to Tilly and father of three, Justin serves as elder at Grace Baptist Church in Hartsville, Tennessee.

Raised by Parents Who Loved the Lord - The Life Story of Ben Seewald

Church & Family Life — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

The oldest of seven, Ben was raised by faithful Christian parents who not only took their family to church, but who practiced regular family worship. Yet as he came into his teen years, Ben made football his idol. Gratefully, his loved ones and mentors pushed back. Ben’s father challenged his sports obsession. And other men in his life relentlessly set Jesus before him till, one day, Ben was converted as he fixed his eyes on Christ’s finished work. Ben married his wife Jessa at age 19. Now a father of six, he currently serves as pastor of Immanuel Baptist Church in Springdale, Arkansas.

Let’s Have a Christian Nation

Church & Family Life — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Scripture declares that civil rulers are to be “God’s ministers . . . for good” (Rom. 13:4). But what does this mean, in practice? Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss the answer with pastor James Baird. In his new book, King of Kings, Baird explains that every ruler—in every nation throughout history—is required to “be wise . . . [and] serve the Lord with fear” (Ps. 2:10-11). And this doesn’t mean advancing some vague notion of “good,” but what God decrees as “good” in His righteous laws, as summarized in the Ten Commandments. To put the matter simply—all civil governments must promote Christianity as the only true religion.

Can Families Actually Worship Together? - with Ben Seewald

Church & Family Life — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Scripture models a family-integrated church. Not youth church, old church, or middle-aged church—but one family growing together. That’s the pattern throughout God’s Word (Deut. 31:11-13; Eph. 6:1–4). Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss this biblical picture with Pastor Ben Seewald. Ben has not only led a long-established Southern Baptist church to drop age-segregated worship for this approach, but has worked with his wife Jessa to train their six children to participate in weekly corporate worship. Yes, there have been awkward moments—for his family and others—but seeing every generation stretched and growing together has brought him great joy.

Strong – A Call to Strengthen What Remains

Church & Family Life — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

The Western church is in shambles. It has become lukewarm and compromised because of a love for the world, a lack of an awestruck fear of God, and a watered-down view of His grace and sovereignty. In answer to this crisis Kevin Swanson has issued an urgent call-to-arms in his new book, Strong: An Urgent Call to Strengthen the Things that Remain. Pulling no punches, he calls out Christians to reject escapist pursuits—be it through alcohol, sports, the Internet, or other off-ramps from reality—and pursue a stronger grace, a stronger faith, a stronger church, and stronger families.

Join Scott Brown and Jason Dohm in today’s podcast as they break down the book with Kevin.

Act Like Men - Come to the Shepherd’s Conference

Church & Family Life — Mon, 22 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

We’ve lost the strong man. Kevin Swanson is holding the Act Like Men Conference to restore men to their God-given role.

On the whole, men today are AWOL, having departed from the Biblical picture of leadership and love. 60% of Master’s degrees are awarded to women. 57% of boys are born without fathers. So, what’s the solution to this crisis? Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by guest Kevin Swanson, explain that the right answer is not the “macho man” or the “wild-at-heart man,” but the biblical man who’s strong in faith and who fears God. This is the focus of the upcoming Act Like Men Conference, to be held Oct. 29-Nov. 1 in Elizabeth, Colorado. Rather than fall for the pseudo-visions of masculinity found in the “Manosphere,” we must look to God’s Word to understand what it means to be a faithful man. That’s the goal of this gathering — to teach 12-year-old boys to grandfathers to “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, [and] be strong” (1 Cor. 16:13 ESV).

Click here to learn more and register.

“Who Gives This Woman?”

Church & Family Life — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

“Who gives this woman to be married to this man?” In most weddings today, these words are just a quaint formality. But what stands behind them is a timeless biblical principle—that parents have the authority to give or withhold consent in their children’s marriages. The truth is, parents generally know their children better than they know themselves and see blind spots they miss. This said, parents should exercise their authority with wisdom. They must recognize there’s no “perfect suitor” and that their child and potential spouse won’t be as mature, at age 20 or 25, as they are now.

Learn more on these points in: A Holy Vision for Raising Children

How to Cultivate a Child’s Affection

Church & Family Life — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

How do parents cultivate a child’s affection? First and foremost, model love in your marriage. You can be perfect technicians in child training, but if you’re snippety toward your spouse, you’ll undo everything—so teach your children, by example, what loving respect is through your conversations. Second, give clear expectations and hold your children to them. You only get what you insist on, so promptly discipline them in love when they cross the line. Finally, don’t allow your children to constantly interrupt, but teach them to wait to ask questions by modeling patience as husband and wife.

Learn more on these points in: A Holy Vision for Raising Children

Four Giants Gone - Now the Work Falls to Us

Church & Family Life — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

This year, four remarkable men passed away — John MacArthur, Voddie Baucham, James Dobson, and Charlie Kirk. A bold expository preacher, MacArthur defended the Lordship of Christ and the true Gospel for 56 years, refusing to close his church during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Baucham, another lion in the pulpit, championed Scripture’s teaching on the sufficiency of scripture, the centrality of the church, social justice, male headship, family-integrated churches, and much more. Dobson called Christians to prioritize and protect their family life. And Kirk — martyred at 31 — fearlessly proclaimed his faith on college campuses, urging young people to reject the world’s lies and embrace biblical manhood and womanhood. With their passing, the work now falls on us to continue.

From Broken Home to Building Homes: The Life Story of Michael Clary

Church & Family Life — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Michael Clary grew up in Huntington, West Virginia, in the shadow of the Marshall University plane crash that marked his hometown. Ministry ran deep in his family line—his great-grandfather and grandfather were both Baptist preachers—but his own childhood was shaken when his parents divorced at age seven. Shuttling between households, Michael experienced both the steady example of his Christian father and the destructive influence of a tyrannical stepfather. Those early wounds left him with a deep burden for healthy, Christ-centered homes.

Though he professed faith from a young age, Michael’s spiritual growth accelerated through Campus Crusade for Christ at Marshall University. Immersed in Bible study, evangelism, and worship leadership, his heart for ministry took root. It was during a summer project with Crusade that he met Laura, the shy young woman who would later become his wife. Married in 1999, Michael and Laura went on staff with Crusade before sensing God’s call to local church ministry.

In 2010, with nothing but faith and a handful of families meeting in his basement, Michael planted Christ the King Church in Cincinnati. Over 15 years, the church has grown, planted daughter churches, and recently moved to a new facility in Fort Thomas, Kentucky. Along the way, Michael’s convictions deepened around biblical manhood, womanhood, and family life—shaped by both his wounds and God’s grace. Today, he continues to serve as lead pastor, husband to Laura, and father to four children, proclaiming God’s good design for households and the church

The Lifegiving Distinctions of the Sexes

Church & Family Life — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 07:00:00 +0000

How can Christian men and women live faithfully in a world confused over sexuality and gender? The answer is simple — amidst the moral chaos, embrace God’s beautiful design for manhood and womanhood. Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss this subject with pastor Michael Clary. Clary’s new book, God’s Good Design, is a compelling call for men and women to reject the world’s dark vision of sexual madness and fall in love with the way God made them. Today’s young people are crying out for truthful answers of who they are, and this book gives an oasis of hope, explaining how God wonderfully creates each person as “male” or “female” (Gen. 1:27).

Why Young People Delay Turning to Christ

Church & Family Life — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Why do young people not turn the Christ? Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by guest Carlton McLeod, answer this question, giving ten common lies that ensnare unsaved youth: (1) you’ll be deprived of pleasure; (2) faithfulness to God is impossible; (3) you’ll be beset by trials and tribulations; (4) you'll be reproached; (5) you won’t be prosperous; (6) you’ll be unfashionable; (7) you will die young and miss all the fun; (8) you won’t be able to keep it up for very long; (9) you have plenty of time; and (10) there are many ways to God. Rather than fall for these deceptions, young people should come to Christ without delay: “Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, Before the difficult days come, And the years draw near when you say, ‘I have no pleasure in them’” (Eccles. 12:1).

Christianity Is a Warzone—Train Your Sons Like Generals

Church & Family Life — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

The Christian faith is about more than inner piety; it must openly manifest itself in the real-life battle lines of our earthly walk. In this podcast, hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by guest Carlton McLeod, discuss the Christian’s call to battle. Our engagement must be built on God’s Word and then put into practice. Fathers must reject passivity and take charge of their families. Women must embrace their femininity, not fall prey to feminism. Parents must diligently shape their children’s education, not send them to Pharoah’s schools. Young people must not seek their identity through escapist media and entertainment, but earnestly walk in the ways of God. Our call before God is this—we must not be merely hearers of the word, but doers also (James 1:22).

When Lenience Is Cruelty - Legacy of Pampering Parents

Church & Family Life — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

“Hands-off” parenting advocates scorn the use of physical correction, but what does the Bible say? Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by Scott’s wife Deborah, explain that disobedience, dishonor, and dishonesty call for the rod. And how should such correction be pursued? First, make sure there is a fault committed that has just cause. Second, make sure your child is convinced that he has sinned. Third, pray for yourself and your children before correcting them. Fourth, correct them in love. Fifth, make sure your emotions are under control when you discipline them. And, sixth, correct by word and instruction before correcting by the rod. In all this, recognize that just as God lovingly corrects His sons, so we, too, must correct our children (Heb. 12:5-11).

Learn more on these points in: A Holy Vision for Raising Children

Teach Them to Work

Church & Family Life — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What do parents need to do to faithfully raise their children? William Gouge has the answers. Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by Scott’s wife Deborah, give five critical actions parents should take drawing from William Gouge’s, A Holy Vision for Raising Children. First, engage in focused parenting while your child are young; don’t wait till they’re 8 or teenagers. Second, teach your children good manners. This will help your kids to thoughtfully focus on others, rather than themselves. Third, train your children to be in some good vocation. This means more than a job skill. It’s about calling and dominion, equipping them to take care of their own family one day. Fourth, teach your children piety. Point them toward godliness—that they might love the word of God, live by it, and trust it with all their hearts. And, fifth, redeem the time, for what’s learned in childhood lasts the longest.

Learn more on these (5) points in: A Holy Vision for Raising Children

Words Feminists Hate – ‘Ask Your Husband at Home’

Church & Family Life — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What Bible verses do feminists most hate? 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 are near the top: “Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.” Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm explain the wisdom of God’s command—it prompts husbands and wives to grow together, as they wrestle through matters of theology. By asking your husband hard questions at home, it requires him to lead, which affirms God’s order and promotes unity in the marriage bond.

It’s Good to Be a Man

Church & Family Life — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Toxic masculinity is a real thing. Yet in responding to such abuses, many Christians are afraid to boldly stand on God’s established order, which is this—men, not women, are made to rule in the family, church, and civil sphere. Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss this dilemma with Michael Foster, author of the handbook, It’s Good to Be a Man. Their conclusion: patriarchy is inevitable, but it needs to be restored, by God’s grace, to His design. This requires men to set aside macho bluster and courageously lead.

"It's Good to Know Jesus": The Life Story of Michael Foster

Church & Family Life — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Michael grew up in a rough household. Most nights, he heard his parents fight, and on more than one occasion, he covered his father’s sleeping body up on the sidewalk near their home after a drunken bout. Pent up anger led Michael to disruptive outbursts at school, prompting his mom to ship him to live with his grandmother, a tough German woman who survived the Dresden firebombings in WWII. From her rural country farmhouse, she taught him structure and discipline, yet still he struggled till God saved him at a Christian basketball tournament at age 17. Michael met his future wife Emily at a Bible study, and they’ve been blessed with 22 years of marriage and 9 children together. Author of It’s Good to Be a Man, he currently serves as lead pastor of East River Church in Batavia, Ohio.

Unraveling Feminism in the Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 14 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Over the last century, feminism has radically reshaped how the family, church, and state are led. While God’s Word calls on men to helm these spheres, even churches in more “conservative” denominations have compromised, allowing women to take on public roles not condoned in Scripture. Professing Christians have also slid from God’s standards in how they approach authority in the home and civil realm. In this podcast, hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by author Zachary Garris, survey this checkered landscape in light of the Reformers’ testimony. Their charge: rather than bow to the prevailing culture, men and women should buck this trend and joyfully embrace their God-given roles.

Get Equipped to Evangelize

Church & Family Life — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What are you doing to evangelize the lost? The truth is, the crushing need of all of humanity is for a Savior. Whether you’re “nice” and well-to-do or living in the slums, your only hope from the just wrath of God is through the Gospel, which “is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes” (Rom. 1:16). In this podcast, hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss the need, scope, and motives for evangelism with pastor Rob Ventura—and how Christians can prepare themselves to share the Gospel, the focus of Ventura’s new book, Equipped to Evangelize.

The Best Seminary Is Your Dinner Table

Church & Family Life — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Not every son will become an elder, but the requirements for this office (1 Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9) give a great benchmark for every father to strive for as they train their boys. Hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss the essence of these qualities with Alexander Strauch. Their summary: All fall into three main categories: (1) evidence of mature Christian character; (2) the ability to manage a household well; (3) and aptness to teach—all targets which sons should be trained to hit as they enter manhood. These qualifications, along with the Book of Proverbs, form a tried-and-try manual for raising boys.

The Bi-Vocational Elders Wife

Church & Family Life — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What makes a good elder’s wife? Thankfully, we’re not left to wonder—as she “must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things” (1 Tim. 3:11). In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm welcome guest Alexander Strauch to break down these four elements. Strauch explains that an elder’s wife must, first, be worthy of respect. Second, she must not hurt others through loose or malicious talk. Third, she must be characterized by sound and stable judgment. And, finally, like the Proverbs 31 woman, she must show herself faithful in all her pursuits (Prov. 31:11). Perfection is not the standard—yet these qualities are what’s needed in an elder’s helpmeet.

A June Retreat for Daughters - The Beauty of Womanhood

Church & Family Life — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Join us on June 20-21 at the Brown Family Farm for this special time of refreshment for dads and their girls. Enjoy outdoor activities, together, such as volleyball, canoe races, and archery, even as you take in practical messages on the beauty of biblical womanhood.

God created women to do particular things—the most wonderful things! They take care of husbands, children, and homes, and selflessly give themselves to raise the next generation. This theme will be the focus at our annual Father and Daughter Retreat as we encourage young women to “lead a quiet life” (1 Thess. 4:11), rather than chase fulfillment elsewhere. Learn more about this event in today’s podcast.

Strong – An Urgent Call to Strengthen the Things that Remain

Church & Family Life — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Join Scott Brown and Jason Dohm in today’s podcast as they break down the book with Kevin.

Be Done with Podcast Shrinks – Find a Real Personal Shepherd

Church & Family Life — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

When push comes to shove, who’s really shaping you in your walk with God? Sadly, most Christians today have “ten thousand instructors,” as Paul wrote, “but not many . . . fathers” (1 Cor. 4:15). The truth is, it’s far easier to look to popular podcasters to guide us, rather than seeking out the interpersonal influence of godly mentors as personal shepherds. But that’s not what the Scriptures prescribe. In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Bill Roach, give this earnest charge—stop stoking superficial manhood and womanhood through man caves and social media chatter, but seek out faithful shepherds who will spur you on to godly living.

10 Reasons Families Should Eat Together Daily

Church & Family Life — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s world, families rarely eat together. Yet this is a far cry from the biblical model, which pictures family mealtime as a blessing, describing “children like olive plants all around [one’s] table” (Ps. 128:3). In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Bill Roach, give ten reasons families should eat together daily: (1) it solidifies family culture; (2) it creates a rhythmic predictability about life; (3) it gets you off the Internet with real people; (4) it facilitates family joy; (5) it creates stories; (6) it surfaces problems; (7) it covers the news and world events; (8) it transmits values; (9) it cultivates belonging; and (10), it is generationally balanced.

So don’t let life’s distractions keep you from the family table—make eating together, each day, a top priority!

Big Boys Don’t Cry

Church & Family Life — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 06:00:00 +0000

You’ve heard the mantra—men, today, need “to get in touch with their feminine side.” But this is utter nonsense. In this podcast, hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by Carlton McLeod, declare the Scripture’s call for men to “act like men” and “be strong” (1 Cor. 16:13). This doesn’t mean that males are to show no emotion—as Jesus wept (John 11:35), and we’re all charged to be “tenderhearted” to one another (Eph. 4:32). But men aren’t to cow in fear and give way to their emotions. When storms come, they’re to guide their families with calm judgment and bravely lead.

Don’t Fear the Economy - Trust God and Sleep Well

Church & Family Life — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Men are called by God to labor. Yet the uncertainty of financial markets, as well as the idolization of wealth, can prod men to fretfully toil beyond what is wise. What’s the answer to the problem? In this podcast, hosts Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by Carlton McLeod, turn to Psalm 127 for direction: Don’t fear the economy, but trust God, work with purpose, and sleep well. View your children, not your bank account, as your greatest asset. Instead of laboring in vain, look to God to build your house.

A Generational Faith - The Life Story of Bradley Pierce

Church & Family Life — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Raised with blue-collar roots in the Houston area, Bradley Pierce was blessed with a strong Christian family from a young age. The close-knit Pierce clan embraced the faith for generations, with his Papa and Nana hosting the family for weekly Sunday dinners after church. Realizing his sin and need of a Savior, Bradley professed Christ and was baptized at age seven. As he reached adulthood, he was led to serve God in the field of law, and for the last twenty years, elder and attorney Don Hart has been a key mentor in his life. Bradley currently serves with Don at Heritage Defense, while as leading the Foundation to Abolish Abortion and Abolish Abortion Texas as president.

From Secularist to Puritan Heir - The Life Story of Justin Miller

Church & Family Life — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Raised by secularists, Justin Miller’s family life was a wreck. While in the eighth grade, his parents divorced—a trauma worse than death—and Justin’s mom looked to him to help raise his two younger siblings. Given a Bible at age 11, he read it every morning till age 23, but felt no peace. Newly married at the time, he was powerfully saved when he heard Adrian Rogers preach the true gospel on the radio. His wife came to Christ four months later, and they soon joined a church where the pastor taught through the Bible, verse by verse. As their faith grew, Justin was called to pastoral ministry. Moved by the Puritans’ legacy, Justin has given his life to sound but heart-felt teaching and currently serves as lead pastor of First Baptist Church in Puxico, Missouri.

A Top Ten Book for Your Family

Church & Family Life — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

We need strong families. An outside the Bible, one of the best books you’ll find to build yours up is The Theology of the Family. In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss this treasure trove of biblical wisdom. Drawing from the Reformers and Puritans, it features rich biblical gems from 56 different authors on: (1) fatherhood and motherhood; (2) marriage; (3) childbearing; (4) bringing up children; (5) abortion; (6) modest apparel; (7) advice to young people, and more. Packed with hundreds of short, powerful articles you can read, as a family, in minutes, the book’s already helped thousands of dads, moms, and children in their walk with God. And this expanded heirloom edition is one you’ll want to go to, again and again, for foundational truths and practical insights in raising your family.

Beyond Modesty – How Should We Dress as Christians?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 26 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What should we wear and not wear? When most Christians think about acceptable clothing, they’re inclined to debate a woman’s skirt length or other feminine attire. But the Bible goes much deeper than that. In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Jeff Pollard, discuss Scott’s new book, Beyond Modesty: Tracing the Meaning of Clothing through the Fabric of Scripture. They explain that the doctrine of clothing—which unfolds in Scripture from Genesis to Revelation—goes far beyond matters of modesty in women's clothing; it speaks to the very nature of man's sin and God’s work to clothe sinners in His righteous robes. Once realizing this—whether we’re man or woman—we should seek to reflect Christ in how we dress.

Click Here to Order Beyond Modesty

The Life Story of Sam Waldron - Saved by God’s Free Grace

Church & Family Life — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Born in Elmhood, Michigan, Sam Waldron was raised by parents who converted to Christ shortly before his birth. Though still young in the faith, they were the biggest influences on his life, regularly reading the Bible as a family and attending church together, and faithfully disciplining him for misbehavior. After confessing Christ and being baptized at age 7, Sam struggled with assurance of salvation for years until he came to understand that salvation was by God’s free grace alone. Since then, God has raised him up as a leading Reformed Baptist pastor whose passion for sound doctrine and the importance of the local church has blessed many.

Welcome to Babylon!

Church & Family Life — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohn, joined by special guest Jeff Johnson, discuss Jeremiah’s charge to the captives in Babylon to build, dwell, and plant for the honor of God (Jer. 29:5-6), rather than fearfully bow to the evil culture that surrounded them. It’s this message of hope that will be the focus of Church & Family Life’s Build, Dwell, Plant Conference, to be held in Ridgecrest, North Carolina on April 24-26. Whether in prosperity or peril, the culture of family life should be built to flourish—with Christians seeking first God’s kingdom as they build.

Join Us for the Build, Dwell, Plant Conference.

The Sins of Women

Church & Family Life — Mon, 05 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Satan desires to corrupt every aspect of a woman’s life—from her relationships and friendships to her self-perception, empathy, and even her motherhood. In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss this battle with Tilly Dillehay, author of Dear Hemlock. Her new book—which is modeled after C.S. Lewis’ Screwtape Letters—offers an eye-opening exploration of the struggles women face, shedding light on how feminine virtues can mask hidden vices whenever they fall for the Devil’s lies, as Eve did in the Garden. Rather than succumb to Satan’s deceptions, women must conquer them with a clear-eyed commitment to God’s Word.

A Strong-Willed Son - The Life Story of Chad Roach

Church & Family Life — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Strong-willed from the start, Chad Roach got more spankings in a day than all his sisters, combined, got in a whole month. This led his mom to quip that he’d turn out to be a Martin Luther or Al Capone. Entering his teens, Chad’s sin confronted him at every turn. With much anguish, he repeatedly cried out to God till he finally found peace, realizing that Christ was more than able to save him. Around this time, his dad took over his daily education, mentoring Chad in business. This mentorship—along with that of Kevin Swanson—instilled in him the desire to focus his life on three callings: entrepreneurship, non-profit work, and church ministry. While once a dishonorable son, Chad now enjoys a sweet relationship with his parents, working alongside them in various businesses.

Loving the Church - The Life Story of Chris Law

Church & Family Life — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

From an early age, Chris Law remembers the church being the center of family life, as his parents quietly but faithfully served their local body. This example of selfless, hardworking love shaped his childhood, and after confessing Christ at age six, Chris’s love for the church grew. Sensing a calling for pastoral ministry, he attended the Master’s College where he met his future wife Jennifer. Once married, Chris selfishly only wanted a small family, but God changed his heart as he grew in faith and reverence for the Scriptures. Chris is now the father of seven and serves as the pastor of Geneva Lakes Church in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

Honoring Parents – The Greatest Leverage for Success

Church & Family Life — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

The prevailing culture of our day encourages young people to kick against authority rather than honor their parents. Yet even without the “help” of outside influences, it’s in the heart of every child to desire their own way, and as they enter their teens years, to think they know better than their dad and mom. Such attitudes are in direct rebellion to God’s command: “‘Honor your father and mother,’ which is the first commandment with promise: ‘that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth’” (Eph. 6:2–3).

In this podcast, Scott Brown, Jason Dohm, and Robert Bosley explain that honoring one’s parents is square one in learning to live under authority. It’s a key testing ground for honoring God. Their advice to parents: Model honor to your children; maintain parental authority; affirm what is commendable in your kids; and do not exasperate them. Their advice to children: Recognize that God’s given you the parents you have and wholeheartedly honor them, knowing that such obedience is the greatest leverage point for your long-term success (Eph. 6:3).

What Should Women’s Ministry Look Like?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 19 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What should women's ministry look like in the church? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Jeff Pollard, answer this question by breaking down the key elements of women’s ministry given by Paul in Titus 2. The Scriptures’ directives are clear—women aren’t to teach other men, yet they are to play an active role in discipleship. Older women are to be holy and sober in their conduct as they teach younger women how “to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed” (Titus 2:3-5).

Getting Education Right – Scripture is Sufficient for Education

Church & Family Life — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 07:00:00 +0000

When it comes to education content and methodology, do we truly believe that Scripture is sufficient to make us “complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:17)? Sadly, many professing Christians have bought the lie that Scripture is silent on key facets of learning, paving the way for false worldviews such as humanism, evolutionism, and socialism to fill the void. The results have been ruinous, as children have left the faith in droves.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Kevin Swanson, sound the call for Christians to reject the myth of neutrality in education and embrace the sufficiency of Scripture instead. Our teaching methodology, they explain, must be 3-pronged: (1) integrating God’s Word into every subject, placing it as “frontlets” before our children’s eyes; (2) integrating parents every step of the way; and (3) integrating learning beyond the classroom into all of life (Deut. 6:6-9). If we take such steps—embracing the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom—we will not only glorify God, but we’ll raise strong children.

When to Leave a Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Are you a church hopper? Sadly, many Christians in our day are quick to leave one church for another at the slightest upset. They take offence at a petty grievance. They grow tired of the people in the body, desiring more to be served than to selflessly serve others. Or they bolt when a weaker brother falls into sin, rather than seeking their restoration, patiently, through biblical means. This said, when is it right to leave a church, and how is it to be honorably done?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss the folly of church hopping, while also explaining when and how to leave a church. While believers shouldn’t be thin-skinned and nitpick every nuance, it’s right to leave a church when God’s Word is chronically mishandled, the gospel in misrepresented, or when a culture of worldliness prevails. Whenever it’s right to go, one should take time to discuss the matter with church leadership, be honest about the reasons, while avoiding slander and seeking the best of all involved.

Every Christian Is a Counselor

Church & Family Life — Mon, 12 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Every Christian is a counselor—whether we realize it or not. The question is: what worldview do we draw from when we give advice? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Jason Winslade, discuss the folly of secular psychology—which assumes that man is basically good—and even some Christian counseling, which baptizes Freudian psychology with a few Bible verses. What’s needed, instead, is people who think biblically and reject dangerous worldly philosophies (Col. 2:8-10), drawing from God’s all-sufficient Word to restore sinners and support the suffering in their time of need (Gal. 6:1-2). Relying on the sure foundation of Scripture, every Christian can learn, with God’s help, to wisely counsel others.

Nobody’s Off the Hook: Nine Duties for Every Spouse

Church & Family Life — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

So, you’re married—now what are you supposed to do for your spouse? Thankfully, we’re not left to guess the answers, for God, as the author of marriage, gives clear directions in His Word. He defines the duties of marriage.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss nine such biblical duties, as outlined by Puritan Richard Steele: (1) Living with each other; (2) Loving each other; (3) Staying faithful to each other; (4) Helping each other; (5) Being patient with each other; (6) Promoting the salvation of each other; (7) Maintaining regular but moderate sex; (8) Looking out for each other’s interest; and (9) Praying for each other.

What’s My Problem? – Understanding the Fall

Church & Family Life — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Why are there relationship problems? Birth defects? Foreign wars? And constant disruptions in the natural world? The truth is, getting the answers wrong only leads to futility, for whenever you misdiagnose a problem, you design a cure that’s doomed to fail.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm explain that there’s one right answer to all these questions—the Fall. Only by grasping the impact of Adam and Eve’s sin can we rise above the smoke and the fire and know what’s happening, and then turn to the right remedy—Jesus Christ—who’s the only source of salvation.

But Do You Need Better Parents? Think Again.

Church & Family Life — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

There’s only one kind of parents any child will ever have—imperfect ones. Yet God’s command to “Honor your father and mother” is to be followed, regardless. The good news is: Though it’s hard to obey, at times, this command comes with a blessed “promise: ‘that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth’” (Eph. 6:2-3).

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm explain that honoring one’s parents is in every child’s best interest. Dishonor toward one’s parents, on the other hand, is one of the most dangerous, debilitating things you can ever do. Their charge: Make it your occupation to honor your parents. Let others focus on their imperfections—like Shem and Japheth did when Noah got drunk—even as you rest in God’s sovereignty.

Tedd Tripp Vs. Reb Bradley - Who is Right?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Most children training books are bad—but a few are fantastic. In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss their top three: (1) Training Tips by Reb Bradley; (2) Shepherding a Child’s Heart by Tedd Tripp; and (3) Purposeful and Persistent Parenting by John and Cindy Raquet.

How can parents proactively raise their kids, rather than have a “child-run” home where they simply react to bad behavior? How can children be trained to obey when spoken to the first time? How can they be shepherded to love God and others from the heart? Learn the answers to these and many other parenting questions from these three practical resources.

The Source of Social Decay and How to Rebuild the Ruins

Church & Family Life — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000

It’s easy to complain that the culture’s crumbling all around us. But as homes go, so goes the nation. When fathers and mothers neglect reading the Bible daily to their family and directing their children in God’s ways, nations fall into decay. The remedy comes not in changing Washington, London, or Paris, but in transforming our homes by practicing regular family worship and putting God at the center of everything.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Jeff Pollard, urge dads to open their Bibles daily and fill their homes with the knowledge of God. They shouldn’t wait for “experts” to fill the void, but simply read what His Word says to their children, pray and sing with them, and point their family to Christ. While God’s grace is essential for salvation and godliness, to rebuild our crumbling culture, families must resolve to humbly worship God six days a week in their homes, and then come together for gathered worship on the Lord’s Day. This is the path to rebuild a nation in decay.

Is the Sabbath a Creation Ordinance or Temporary Ceremony? A Conversation with Jon English Lee

Church & Family Life — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Jon English Lee’s new book, There Remains a Sabbath Rest for the People of God answers the question: Are Christians are bound to keep the sabbath? Or is it simply a relic of Israel’s law system that was fulfilled in Christ? The answer comes in the Fourth Commandment. We’re to “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exod. 20:8) because God established it as a creation ordinance, “For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it” (Exod. 20:11).

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Jon English Lee, give an overview of the Scripture’s teaching on the Sabbath, explaining that, following creation, God Himself—who needs no rest—modeled rest for man for his refreshment and benefit (Gen. 2:1-3). And Jesus, during His earthly ministry, upheld this pattern, with His apostles moving its observance to the first day of the week, following Christ’s resurrection (Mark 16:2; Acts 20:7). Honoring the Sabbath acknowledges we are not ultimately dependent on the fruitfulness of our own labor, so we should put down the plow each Lord’s Day, worship God, and rest.

New Year’s Resolutions – The Duty of Consecration

Church & Family Life — Mon, 06 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Every year should be a year of consecration. So as we enter 2025, we should set our yearly goals apart to God for His glory. This requires looking to Him for wisdom and ordering our way rightly, as the Psalmist cries: “Direct my steps by Your word, and let no iniquity have dominion over me” (Ps. 119:133).

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Carlton McLeod, discuss the need to sanctify ourselves as we make New Year’s Resolutions, desiring to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Pet. 3:18). This starts by humbly acknowledging God has given us another year to experience His goodness and to rejoice in His sovereign hand. Once we have this in proper view, we should dedicate ourselves to His service by pursuing goals that honor Christ.

As for Me and My House - Double Down on Your Family!

Church & Family Life — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Leading one’s family in God’s ways requires focus and resolve. With the world arrayed against us, we must proclaim with Joshua, “as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Josh. 24:15). As parents, we must not only love God with all our heart, soul, and strength, and keep His commands (Deut. 6:4-5), but we must “teach them diligently to [our] children, and shall talk of them when [we] sit in [our] house, when [we] walk by the way, when [we] lie down, and when [we rise up” (Deut. 6:6-7).

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Carlton McLeod, discuss five ways to double down on your family: (1) Identify a consistent spot in your schedule for family worship; (2) Pick a strategy for reading the Bible; (3) Squeeze more life out of your local church; (4) Have a discipleship goal for each of your children; and (5) Take one high-impact trip as a family. They then add key reasons to do so, including the fact that the Bible has put family discipleship squarely in your laps, and your role as parents is one of the greatest privileges of a lifetime.

First-Time Obedience

Church & Family Life — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Delayed obedience. Partial obedience. Rolling of the eyes. “Selective” listening. A dishonorable tone. Such gestures are tell-tale signs of a child who doesn’t honor their parents from the heart. And whenever parents see such signs, they have a duty to promptly get on top of these problems and secure first-time obedience from their children—for it will not go well with them if they fail to honor their father and mother (Exod. 20:12).

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss the need for parents to insist on first-time obedience with their children. Slow obedience is disobedience, they explain, for it reflects a heart of dishonor. Proverbs gives this helpful corrective, “The rod and rebuke give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother” (Prov. 29:15). The message is clear: Passivity in child training will lead to disaster. Proper training of our children, on the other hand, requires verbal instruction, with physical discipline to back it up.

7 Reasons a Father Should Pray Daily with His Family

Church & Family Life — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

One of the pivotal duties of a father is to lead his family daily in prayer. Whenever dads fail to do this, more often than not, the rest of their family’s prayer life will languish. A father’s prayers should be marked by praise to God for His many mercies. Dads should lead the way in acknowledging their own inability and weakness, even as they appeal to the Giver of all good things for their family’s every need.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Paul White, discuss the importance of a father’s prayer life, outlining seven reasons dads should pray daily with their families: One, because we receive family mercies every day from God’s hand; two, because of the sins committed in our families; three, because we have wants that none can supply but God; four, because of our family’s daily employments and labors; five, because we’re liable, every day, to temptations; six, because all in our family are liable to daily hazards, casualties, and afflictions; and seven, if we fail to pray, the very heathen will rise up and condemn us.

Miscarriage – Comforting Those Who Grieve

Church & Family Life — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 06:00:00 +0000

There’s a baby on the way! When a dad and mom learn they’re expecting, joy fills the air as they discuss baby names, redecorating the nursery, and what life will be like in welcoming a new child into their home. Then the mother begins to bleed. And worry. And, before long, she has a confirmed miscarriage. As she and her husband begin to grieve, how should we comfort them?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by guest Trent Moody, discuss this tender topic. When we learn of those who’ve miscarried, we must first “weep with those who weep” (Rom. 12:15) and show compassion in real and tangible ways. We must next herald God’s perfect attributes: He is faithful, holy, and loving, and—no matter the circumstances—He does all things well (Mark 7:37). Finally, we must encourage grieving couples that God will hold them up in their painful loss: Though they walk through the valley of the shadow of death, He will be there to comfort them (Ps. 23:4).

Bridezilla or Bride of Christ? Planning a Wedding for God's Glory

Church & Family Life — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

How should Christians plan and celebrate their wedding and reception? What should the wedding say and emphasize? And how should we conduct ourselves? Here’s good news! God has not left us to flounder. His all-sufficient Word provides what we need to make wise choices in planning this special day.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Carlton McLeod, share insights from their new book, A Christian Wedding, on how a bride and groom can reflect Christ every step of the way. After overviewing the biblical record of weddings, they then give practical counsel on how to steward your relationships and resources wisely and make God-honoring decisions related to music, wedding attire, and more. Their advice: Showcase the biblical vision for marriage. Put on a wedding you can afford. Reject worldliness—and give your family and friends wonderful pictures of the beauties of Jesus Christ as you come together as one.

How to Have a Great Thanksgiving

Church & Family Life — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 06:00:00 +0000

God calls us to be a thankful people (1 Thess. 5:18), and such thanks was powerfully modeled to us by the Pilgrims in Plymouth in 1621. Following a harsh start where half their number died due to sickness and starvation, they gathered the next Fall to celebrate God’s goodness. Joined by local Indians such as Chief Massasoit and Squanto, they feasted, played games, and gave thanks to their Maker for blessing them with an abundant harvest.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Al Burke, give practical tips on how to celebrate Thanksgiving Day as a family. Along with fitting songs to sing, they suggest fun games to play rooted in Pilgrim history, special Psalms to rehearse, and Thanksgiving Proclamations and other period accounts to read aloud—all designed for families to enjoy a rich and memorable day of thanks together.

Check Out These Resources as you Plan Your Thanksgiving Day Celebration:

Of Plymouth Plantation by William Bradford
Resource on the Pilgrims history and early Thanksgiving celebrations
Read Online / Purchase Online

Magnalia Christi Americana by Cotton Mather
Explores the blessings of God on early America

First Thanksgiving Account by Edward Winslow
An eyewitness account of the first Thanksgiving

Continental Congress “Thanksgiving Proclamation” (November 1, 1777)
A one-page proclamation for Thanksgiving

George Washington’s “Thanksgiving Proclamation” (October 3, 1789)
A historical thanksgiving proclamation

Abraham Lincoln’s “Thanksgiving Address” (October 3, 1863)
A thanksgiving and repentance address during the Civil War

The Ainsworth Psalter
Used by Pilgrims for singing Psalms, historically tied to early Thanksgiving.
Download PDF / Purchase Online

Syncretism – The Greatest Threat to Churches and Families

Church & Family Life — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 06:00:00 +0000

What drives churches into irrelevancy? What harms the coming generation that’s grown up in the church? What nullifies preaching and doctrine? What compromises the family’s integrity at its core? What damages our witness in the world? It’s syncretism—mixing the things of God with the things of the world. Besides rejecting the true Gospel, syncretism is the greatest threat to the church and family in every age.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm warn against the dangers of syncretism and give practical counsel on how to avoid it: First, cry out to God that he would resensitize you to the fact that you’re a blood-bought believer who’s to live set apart from the world. Second, double down on God’s Word—meet with the Lord every morning and let him shape your thinking and priorities. Third, double down on your family—don’t let the enemy kick down your home’s door anymore. Fourth, devote yourselves fully to your local church. In all this, resist the mixing the things of God with the things of the world.

The Battle for Truth: Why the Church Must Speak

Church & Family Life — Mon, 14 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0000

When civil rulers spurn God’s law, Christians have a duty to speak. That’s the clear testimony of Scripture. Throughout history, faithful heralds of righteousness have called out civil magistrates for committing evil deeds and enacting laws repugnant to God’s moral order. Think of Elijah before King Ahab and John the Baptist before Herod.

The need is no less great today. In this podcast, Scott Brown, joined by Trent Moody and Robert Bosley, discuss the church’s duty to speak to morality in the civil sphere. And the topics before us are many: whether it’s local city councils promoting Gay Pride Festivals and transgenderism, or state agencies paying for the removal of sex organs or permanently sterilizing children, Christians need to call our civil leaders to forsake evil and follow God’s ways.

Fit Soul, Fit Mind, Fit Body: Reclaiming Manhood for God’s Glory

Church & Family Life — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Manhood today is in crisis, as men across the globe have become increasingly passive, effeminate, depressed, medicated, and, in some cases, suicidal. Yet there is hope! God calls men to be men, and His Word shows us what manhood looks like. Rather than kowtow to feminism’s lies or gave way to their sinful flesh, men are to be strong and courageous dominion-takers whose chief desire is to glorify God.

In this podcast, Scott Brown, along with guests Trent Moody and Paul Carrington explain that the foundation of biblical manhood rests on men loving God with all their soul, mind, and bodies (Deut. 6:5; 1 Cor. 6:19-20). Men must have souls that long for God, “as the deer pants for the water brooks” (Ps. 42:1). They must order their thoughts after God’s Word (Ps. 119:133). And they must “present [their] bodies [as] a living sacrifice” for His service (Rom. 12:1). By doing these things they’ll be the men God’s called them to be.

Singing Is Spiritual Warfare

Church & Family Life — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Corporate singing as a church is vital to the health and well-being of the body. Through it, we teach and admonish one another, even as we stir up good affections toward God and praise His glorious name. The songs we sing tell us what kind of God we worship and what kind of gospel we're proclaiming. Singing together brings joy to God’s people and is one of the most spiritually unifying things that the church ever does.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Trent Moody, joined by special guest Chris Law, discuss how to build vigorous and happy cultures of singing in the local church. Rather than treat corporate singing as a secondary matter, they encourage church shepherds to make it a high priority. This involves carefully shaping the music chosen—which should include “psalms . . . hymns, and spiritual songs” (Col. 3:16)—and calling the whole church body to embrace singing together as a gift to be cultivated for God’s glory.

Every Sermon Is a Meeting with God

Church & Family Life — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Sermons should play a heightened role in our child training, for God has ordained the preaching of His Word as an integral part of the disciple-making process. They’re not only a key instrument He uses to convert the lost, but they’re a vehicle through which families are strengthened and children are trained up “in the way [they] should go” (Prov. 22:6). With this in mind, parents should thoughtfully guide their children to get the most out of sermons each week.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Robert Bosley, joined by special guest Joel Beeke, give parents practical tips on how to teach their children to view sermons, prepare to hear sermons, listen to sermons, and weave them into daily life. Their counsel: stir up in your children a hearty appetite to receive the word. If you know the passage to be preached on, read and review it ahead of time with your family. Communicate to your kids that every sermon is a meeting with God, and that when a sermon is preached, they’re not mere spectators, but participants. They should therefore listen well, take careful notes, and be prepared to share what they’ve learned.

Who Should Be Baptized? A Covenantal Look at Credo- vs. Paedobaptism

Church & Family Life — Mon, 07 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Who should be baptized—the children of believers or only those who repent and believe on Christ? The debate between paedo- and credo-baptists has waged for centuries, and the answer hinges on how we interpret Covenant Theology. What is without question is that all of God’s dealings with man are covenantal. And Scripture further makes plain that those who enter covenant with God should receive the covenant sign. The question of baptism comes down to this: What is the nature of the New Covenant, and how does one rightly enter it?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Robert Bosley, tackle the thorny debate between paedo- and credobaptists. Taking a robust view of Covenant Theology, they maintain that members of New Covenant are those who truly know God and have their sins forgiven: “they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, says the LORD. For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more” (Jer. 31:34). The question of who should be baptized does not rest on who one’s parents are, but on those whom the “Lord our God . . . call[s]” (Acts 2:39).

Falling in Love is Easy—Marrying Well is Not: 8 Things You Must Know

Church & Family Life — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Apart from how you walk with God, marriage is the most important life decision you’ll ever make. While “falling in love” may come easy, marrying well in the Lord requires careful prayer and counsel, as well as the resolve to keep personal passions and hormones in their rightful place. It should be pursued for the right reasons with a clear mind and calm judgment—and ultimately be driven by the desire to honor and please the Lord.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Trent Moody, outline eight things one needs to consider and do before marrying. First, recognize the importance of the decision. Second, get good counsel from others about your potential spouse, and don’t ignore it if it’s sound. Third, don’t marry for the wrong reasons—including for beauty (which fades), or wealth (which is fleeting), or out of a sense of panic. Fourth, seek the input and approval of your parents. Fifth, make sure there is genuine, mutual love between both parties. Sixth, have a visible means of financial support. Seventh, determine that there is equal yoking on spiritual things. And, eighth, make it a matter of earnest prayer.

Grandparents: Ur Not Done When They’re 18

Church & Family Life — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0000

What is the role of a grandparent? While the world says it’s time to retire and relax, Scripture paints a much different picture. Grandparents have an opportunity to help disciple their grandchildren in God’s ways and leave a lasting heritage for their families that will bless generations to come.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Josh Mulvihill, counsel listeners to reject the world’s wrong messages to grandparents, which is to maintain disengaged independence from their grandchildren on the one hand, and to indulgently spoil them, on the other. Passages such as Deuteronomy 4:9 and Psalm 78:1-7 call grandparents to teach their grandchildren God’s laws and His mighty works in history. Their story is not the point; it is the pointer to make much of God—proclaiming that the same great God who sustained them will guide their grandchildren’s steps, if they set their hope in Him (Ps. 78:7).

New! God-Centered, Biblical Curriculum for Christian Families

Church & Family Life — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0000

The Proverbs declare that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge (Prov. 9:10; 1:7). Yet, for more than 50 years, America’s public schools have abandoned this truth, resulting in the death of Christian faith among the majority of our youth. But the problem doesn’t stop there. Even some creators of Christian curriculum have too freely elevated “classic” pagan literature to young students, failing to heed this sober warning: “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ” (Col. 2:8).

Kevin Swanson of Generations explains why it is so critical in this present age that we have a thoroughly Christian curriculum that makes God’s Word front and center in every subject. In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm interview Kevin about his vision to teach students how to use the eyeglasses of Scripture to view history, science, literature, math, and every other academic discipline. The goal is to raise up a new generation who fears God, glorifies God, and walks with God all their days.

Links:

Generations Homeschool Curriculum

Taking the World for Jesus

Taking Africa for Jesus

My First History

My First Letters and Sounds

Keep the Gospel Central

Church & Family Life — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0000

The gospel of Jesus Christ is not an aside to our faith. It “is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes” (Rom. 1:16). Without its wonder-working power, there is no hope for family, church, or cultural reformation. We must therefore keep the Gospel at the center, for from it flows salvation and hope for the nations.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss the Gospel as the centerpiece of Scripture—from God’s promise to crush the seed of the serpent in Genesis 3:15 to its ultimate fulfilment in Jesus Christ. Their charge: Don’t let anything unseat the gospel as the center of things, yet also beware of a gospel that doesn’t transform, for “faith without works is dead” (James 2:26).

A Call for Young Deacons - Part 1

Church & Family Life — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0000

To flourish, a church not only needs a strong elder team, but a strong deacon team as well. That’s the message of Acts 6 when the apostles chose seven deacons to minister to widows who had been neglected. This division of labor is vital to the health of the local church. Even as elders are to focus on preaching and shepherding, the deacons are to meet the practical needs of the saints.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Chad Roach, discuss the high calling of deacons, and urge younger men to aspire to this church office, as the Lord leads. Drawing from his personal experience, Chad shares how serving as a deacon has been one of the most fulfilling roles he’s ever played. When done well, the labor of deacons becomes a force multiplier of the elders’ work, something Chad has seen in action. His conclusion affirms that of Scripture—for the good of Christ’s church, more godly men should seek this noble post.

The Woke War Zone-Women in Harms Way

Church & Family Life — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0000

It’s the world turned upside down! The July 13th assassination attempt of Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania showcased an image Americans had never seen before—a female Secret Service agent coming to the defense of a man. While woman warriors populate the Marvel universe, they don’t play this role in God’s world whenever Christian culture prevails. Sadly, we’ve lost our bearings, and women have been the losers!

In the podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Michael Foster, explain the scriptural mandate—men lay down their lives to protect women and children, even as Christ gave His life for the church. The theme is echoed throughout God’s Word: Men, not women, joined Abraham to rescue Lot and his family from foreign invaders. Men marched around Jericho in Joshua’s time, and men fought with Gideon. And the list goes on. The creation order matters—women should be protected as nurturers, while men go out to war.

Let Them Be Tested - The Call for Young Deacons, Part 3

Church & Family Life — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Faithful church deacons provide a ministry of mercy that the state can never match—reaching those in need not just with physical and financial aid, but with spiritual help to the heart and soul. Their care for the sick, the disabled, along with widows and orphans, is Christianity in action. But what makes a young man qualified to fill this role? What attributes should he exemplify before assuming this key church office?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Chad Roach, discuss how a deacon must fear God, rather than be a man-pleaser, and have a proven track record of persevering through trials and overcoming sin. It’s also vital that he not be greedy for money, since he’ll be handling the funds of the church. In addition, a deacon must have a wife who can come alongside and minister with him with sisterly care and discretion.

Knock, Knock – CPS is at Your Door. Know Your Rights Before They Enter!

Church & Family Life — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Before they reach 18, 37% of the children in America will receive a visit from Child Protective Services. While some visits are warranted, 83% of the cases CPS investigates are unfounded. Sadly, doctors and nurses, driven by “mandatory reporting” laws, along with unwise neighbors, regularly tip CPS off to concerns that open up innocent families to needless scrutiny that can result in children being wrongly taken from their parents.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss these challenges with Bradley Pierce of Heritage Defense. Heritage Defense is a membership-based, Christian legal advocacy group that guides parents on how to prudently respond to CPS and defends them against unlawful intrusion. While strongly opposing the criminal abuse of children, their goal is to champion the cause of those persecuted by the state for obeying God’s commands in raising their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

The Perils of a Large Family

Church & Family Life — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0000

While the world trumpets an anti-child bias, God proclaims large families to be a blessing, “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward” (Ps. 127:3). Yet a large family is a big responsibility. It requires a lot of discipline and resources. If you’re going to have a productive womb, you need to have a well-managed household.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Michael Foster, discuss the perils of a large family and how to overcome them. Their counsel: maintain clear boundaries between boys and girls as it relates to modesty. Also enforce proper boundaries between parents and children—even as you teach your older kids to help care for their younger siblings, they shouldn’t become a second dad or mom. Encourage your wife through the physical and mental strain that she bears as a mother. And, as a husband and dad, be forward-thinking about your time management, as well as future needs to scale up your cars, appliances, and home space.

Gender Wars – Rediscovering True Manhood and Womanhood

Church & Family Life — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In today’s world, we’ve been flooded by a sea of lies on what manhood and womanhood really is. These weapons of mass confusion have led to tragic outcomes for boys, girls, marriage, as well as the local church. This distortion of gender roles has come about because we’ve rejected the plain teaching of Scripture—that “God created man in His own image,” and that He created every person either “male and female” (Gen. 1:27), with each having distinct roles they are called to fulfill.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm outline four key pillars of manhood and womanhood: (1) Gender is not fluid, as God created men and women as distinctly different; (2) Men are to lead and women follow; (3) Women are not allowed to teach and exercise authority over men in the church; and (4) Women are not allowed to speak in the formal meeting of the church. Though the world finds these distinctives to be stifling, the full and glorious life of a godly woman is found when she embraces her complementary role, even as a godly man embraces his.

(8) Distinctives That Get Us in Trouble

Church & Family Life — Mon, 20 May 2024 14:00:00 +0000

Does the younger generation know why you do what you do? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss (8) distinctives that have got Christians “in trouble” as they’ve embraced God’s Word rather than worldly trends: (1) the sufficiency of Scripture, not the sufficiency of culture; (2) the regulative principle as opposed to the normative principle of worship; (3) Sabbath-keeping vs. sabbath-breaking; (4) the continued applicability of God’s moral law, rather than antinomianism; (5) age-integrated, not age-segregated worship; (6) theologically-sound, rather than theologically unsound music; (7) biblical manhood and womanhood, instead of egalitarianism; (8) and a culture of modesty vs. immodesty in the church.

Here’s the backdrop. For the last several decades, a growing number of families and churches have gone back to the Bible and reshaped how they live and worship. Throwing off compromises that dominated the 20th century, they’ve sought to conform their practices to age-old biblical standards. But if the foundational reasons for these changes aren’t reinforced through careful discipleship, the next generation can easily fall prey to error again.

To learn more about these (8) distinctives, check out the resources below or search our resource library here.

1. The Sufficiency of Scripture, not the Sufficiency of Culture
Do Not Learn the Way of the Gentiles

2. The Regulative Principle, as opposed to the Normative Principle of Worship
Only God Can Regulate Worship

3. Sabbath-keeping vs. Sabbath-breaking
Confronting the Thieves of Sabbath Delight

4. The Continued Applicability of God’s Moral Law, rather than Antinomianism
The Harmony of Law and Gospel

5. Age-integrated, not Age-segregated Worship
A Biblical Case for Age-Integrated Discipleship
A Declaration of the Complementary Roles of Church and Family

6. Theologically Sound rather than Theologically Unsound Music
Can I Use Any Form of Music to Worship God?

7. Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, instead of Egalitarianism
The Sufficiency of Scripture for Manhood and Womanhood

8. A Culture of Modesty vs. Immodesty in the Church
Beyond Modesty: The Supremacy of Christ in Clothing

Christian Nationalism - Good or Bad?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0000

What is “Christian Nationalism,” and should believers support it or not? These questions have caused a firestorm in recent years, erupting in Twitter wars and bombs being lobbed on podcasts from competing camps. To add fuel to the fire, the mainstream media has advanced skewed definitions of what the term means, demonizing anyone who dares to suggest that Christians ought to advocate for biblical principles in the public square. So what are we to make of all this?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Tom Ascol, tackle the controversy. On the one hand, they reject the notion that America has a specific place in God’s redemptive history on par with Old Covenant Israel, while also maintaining that the general equity of God’s judicial laws has relevant application in our nation’s law system—and that of every other country—today. While an Old Testament theocracy is not the goal, Christian cultural norms should be pursued as God grants us opportunity.

Answering Pragmatism in the Church – God’s Word is Enough!

Church & Family Life — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Cultural trends are insufficient, but God’s Word’s is sufficient to build His church. No other foundation will do. Yet for the last century, “do-what-works” pragmatism has been a driving force in how many churches have pursued evangelism, worship, and church life. Rather than believing God’s Word is enough, results-oriented ministry has dominated, leading to entertainment-centered youth programs, seeker-sensitive worship, among many other ills.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Josh Buice, discuss how pragmatism has undermined faithful Gospel preaching, encouraged congregations to not practice church discipline, and decreased standards of church membership—all stemming from a diminished trust in God’s sufficient Word. Their call to the church is this: Instead of every man doing “what [is] right in his own eyes” (Judg. 17:6), we must believe that the Scripture is all we need for “the man of God [to] be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

Legalism vs. Liberty: Navigating God's Law with Grace

Church & Family Life — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Joel Beeke, discuss how God’s law is not only a tool of conviction to bring us to Christ, but it is a positive rule of life for the believer. The Ten Commandments, they explain, gives a map for how to live the Christian life by earnestly loving God and loving our neighbor as ourselves. While freely acknowledging that we’re saved by grace alone, our desire should be that of David’s, “Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day” (Ps. 119:97).

No one can be justified by keeping the law. Yet, as Christians, we should strive to obey God’s law out of sheer gratitude to Him for saving us. Once freed from the bondage of sin, our desire should be to do his will, viewing His law as a reflection of His personal holiness. Sadly, many professing Christians have adopted the antinomian falsehood that since we’re saved by grace, we don’t need to keep the law anymore—a point which Scripture soundly condemns: “Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not!” (Rom. 6:1-2).

God's Rules or Man's Whims? The Battle for True Worship

Church & Family Life — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0000

How does God desire to be worshipped? The right answer doesn’t come from the latest whiz-bang idea from today’s creative coolness technicians, but from God’s Word itself. Sadly, many in the church believe that anything that’s not forbidden in Scripture is fair game to use in the worship of God—from entertaining skits to musical light shows. But such notions reject the Bible’s teaching on how God wants us to worship Him.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Tom Ascol, defend the regulative principle of worship which affirms that the only “acceptable way of worshiping the true God” (LBC 22:1) is that which He has commanded in Scripture (Deut. 12:32), and “that He may not be worshiped according to the imagination and devices of man” (LBC 22:1). While incidentals—such as whether we use chairs or pews, and what time we meet—are left to our discretion, the essentials of worship—such as the preaching of the Word, prayer, and the remembrance of the Lord’s Supper—must be followed as He’s prescribed.

Closed on Sunday – Why there are Ten Commandments and not Nine

Church & Family Life — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In modern times, the church has dismissed the importance of keeping the Sabbath, viewing it as an abrogated part of the Mosaic Law. Yet this flies in the face of the entire witness of Scripture. From Genesis to Revelation, we find an unbroken theme for man to set aside one day in seven to rest from his labors and worship God. This began following Creation Week with God Himself, who rested on the seventh day and sanctified the day for this purpose (Gen. 2:2-3), and it is reaffirmed in the Bible’s final book by the Apostle John who recognized the “Lord’s Day” as special (Rev. 1:10).

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Tim Stephens, walk through the Bible, identifying (11) eleven scriptural reasons to keep the Sabbath, which was moved from the last to the first day of the week to honor Christ’s resurrection. Among the reasons they give: not only was it established at Creation (Gen. 2:2-3), but it was honored by God’s people prior to the Ten Commandments (Ex. 16:22-23); championed by the prophets (Isa. 58); celebrated by Jesus (Mark 2:27); and affirmed by the Apostles (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:2). Their charge to Christians—rather than focusing on negative prohibitions, make the Sabbath a day of delight by basking in the pleasures of the Lord.

Ditch Children’s Church – Worship Together

Church & Family Life — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0000

The Bible’s witness is clear: When the people of God gather for corporate worship, their children are to be with them in the service. That’s the unmistakable record found throughout Scripture. Yet in the 20th century, many congregations abandoned this established biblical norm, starting Children’s Churches and other youth-centered ministries that separated families during weekly worship.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Sam Waldron, discuss the resurgence of family-integrated worship that has come as Christians have set aside pragmatic and worldly practices for the simple truths of Scripture. This move to follow God’s prescriptions for worship and church life, rather than man’s inventions, has transformed churches and families for the better. While there’s still room for growth, those committed to the Word will find blessing as they obey God from the heart.

Additional Resources

A Weed in the Church: How a Culture of Age Segregation is Harming the Next Generation, Fragmenting the Family, and Dividing the Church

A Declaration of the Complementary Roles of Church and Family

The Family at Church: How Parents Are Tour Guides of Joy

Children in the Worship Service - Getting Our Hearts Right First

Church & Family Life — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Preparing one’s children’s heart for weekly worship starts with the parents preparing their own. Dad and mom must set the tone, first, to please God, but second, because kids normally have an accurate radar that can detect if their parents are focused, or not, in worshipping Him. Going through the motions at church is a real danger we must guard against—preparing for worship must begin in the heart.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guests Danny and Megan Craig, discuss this priority. With four children eight and under, the Craigs explain that the goal for their kids on Sundays is not simply to sit still in church, but to love God as they worship. To get in the right frame of mind, their practice is to devote time on Saturday night to tune their hearts as a family for the next day’s service. Other advice they give: communicate clear expectations to your children ahead of time and then lovingly hold them to those expectations during the worship service.

Practical Tips on Keeping Your Children in Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 27 May 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Contrary to what some allege, Scripture’s clear witness is that children are to be present when God’s people gather for worship. Yet how do you train your kids to sit quietly at church as God’s Word is preached and to actively sing songs of praise during the service? What practical steps can you take during the week to prepare them for Sunday? And how do you manage the service itself as wise parents?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guests Isaac and Heidi Botkin, tackle these questions head on. With four children, eight and under, the Botkins are still learning how to direct their young ones in worship, yet they offer practical counsel: Teach them obedience and self-government at home through regular family worship. Get your kids familiar with the songs your church sings by singing them together ahead of time. And, during the weekly service, work together as parents to manage your children’s oversight and discipline.

Read these two articles as a supplement to today’s podcast:

“Does Nehemiah 8:1-3 Teach Age Segregation?” by Scott Brown

“Nehemiah's Nursery” by Voddie Baucham

To Young Men in Today’s Economy – Take Dominion with Hope!

Church & Family Life — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0000

As the cost of living skyrockets, what are young men desiring to establish themselves financially to do? Rather than shrink in fear, they should make the most of whatever tools God has put in their hands—in hopeful pursuit of the Dominion Mandate, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth” (Gen. 1:28).

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Isaac Botkin, discuss exciting opportunities that exist in practical fields such as hand-on trades and manufacturing. Drawing from his personal experience with T.Rex Arms, Isaac notes that Christians who know how to bring order out of disorder and create an increase from the assets they have will be in demand—whether they own their own company or work for others. His message: Don’t lose heart as a young man trying to make it. Trust God and take dominion with hope!

How We Dress - Clothing and Our Need for Christ

Church & Family Life — Mon, 13 May 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Why do we wear what we wear? The truth is, the clothes we put on communicate who we are and where our heart is. So here’s the question we must answer: Do we seek to flaunt ourselves, or do we portray humble modesty before God and our fellow man? Putting the matter simply—do we love God and our neighbor as ourselves in how we dress, or are we consumed with love of self instead?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Gavin Beers, explain how that our need for clothing points to our need for Christ. Fallen man seeks to cover the shame of his sin—as our first parents did in the Garden. Yet Adam and Eve’s paltry fig leaves were not enough. Only the perfect Lamb of God can truly cover our transgression with His robes of righteousness. Our physical clothing points to this spiritual reality and should inform how we dress as Christians today.

Hospitality Made Simple – Give of What You Have to Others

Church & Family Life — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

God commands His people to be “given to hospitality” (Rom. 12:13). This is one way we show Christian love, as we fellowship and break bread with one another. We must view our homes, then, not just as a place for personal retreat, but as a hub for evangelism, discipleship, and personal ministry.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by Gil Arterburn and his daughter Summer, discuss the joys of hospitality as well as common barriers that often hinder families from opening up their homes. Many fail to practice hospitality because they think their resources are not “good enough.” Yet you don’t need a big home or a fancy steak dinner to be hospitable. Giving of what you have, in a spirit of love, is all you need to encourage others in the Lord.

The Need for True Repentance - The Life Story of Robert Bosley

Church & Family Life — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Robert grew up as an only child in the small town of Beckley, West Virginia. Though his father never had much money, he had a tremendous work ethic and taught Robert the value of hard work. This said, his dad had no interest in the things of God, while his mom possessed a simple faith in Christ and took her son to a local country church. Entering his teens, Robert professed faith and was baptized at age 14. Yet, deep down, he had no change of heart.

Joining the Air Force at 18, Robert served four years as an intelligence analyst. During this stint, he and a good friend began discussing various religions, and Robert shared what he knew of the Bible with him. In God’s providence, his friend became a true believer, and God used his friend’s testimony to later bring Robert to true faith, as he was confronted with what sin is and his need for real repentance. Impassioned to share the gospel, Robert met his wife through street preaching. Married to Andrea since 2012, he is currently pursuing a MA in Theological Studies at Covenant Baptist Theological Seminary.

A Call for Young Deacons: Balancing Life and Service for Christ, Part 2

Church & Family Life — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 05:00:00 +0000

What’s a young man to do with his time and talents? Being self-focused is not the answer, for wise men build margin in their life so that can serve others in need. Young men who cultivate such character are often primed to serve as deacons, filling a vital role in the local church in meeting the practical needs of the body.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Chad Roach, call on young men to look beyond their personal interests and be willing to serve as deacons, as God leads. This includes a man, with a wife and kids, whose house is in order. Ministering to the church as a deacon, they explain, provides a great opportunity to not only meet the needs of others, but to teach and disciple your children in the process.

Also Check Out: A Call for Young Deacons, Part 1

Answering the MacArthur Center’s Objections to Family Integration

Church & Family Life — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0000

In a recent MacArthur Center for Expository Preaching podcast titled “John MacArthur Is My Youth Pastor,” Austin Duncan raised objections to the family-integrated church movement. Duncan, who serves as College Pastor for Grace Community Church as well as Director of the MacArthur Center, cited a “friendly argument” with Voddie Baucham on the matter while lodging numerous criticisms of the family-integrated model.

But is Duncan’s critique correct? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm address his objections, point by point. They express high regard for the teaching ministry of John MacArthur and agree with some of Duncan’s concerns while also refuting numerous mischaracterizations. Resting their case on the sufficiency of Scripture, they maintain that the structure of the church and family should reflect the structure revealed in the Bible alone.

Podcast Related Links:

Is The Church A Family of Families? By Scott Brown

Some Answers For Critics by Scott Brown

The Forgotten Mission Field Of The Family by Voddie Baucham

Other Resources by Voddie Baucham

Creating a Culture of Music in the Home & Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

God ordained music not merely to convey particular moods, but to form our affections after His Word. As Christians, we’re to teach and admonish “one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord” (Col. 3:16). This is a non-optional mandate. But how does a dad, with no musical background, cultivate music in his home? How can the local church foster robust singing in the congregation?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Scott Aniol, discuss how to create a culture of music in the home and church. For dads who lack experience, they encourage investing in a good set of hymnals and using the SingYourPart app and relevant online videos to bolster the process. For churches, they explain that the human voice, not musical accompaniment, should be the prominent feature in corporate worship. Be it at home or church, the voice of God’s people should joyfully sing forth His praises.

The Resurgence of Psalm-Singing

Church & Family Life — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In the last half of the 20th century, the singing of the Psalms hardly existed in the evangelical church. But Psalm-singing has made a resurgence. Why is this? It’s happened as increasingly more Christians and local churches have embraced the sufficiency of Scripture, recognizing that God has given His people an inspired hymnal of 150 psalms.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Scott Aniol, discuss this encouraging trend. There’s great value, they explain, in learning and singing the entire book of Psalms. As with expository preaching, this practice forces us to sing about themes we may not need in the moment, but we do need for shoring up our souls for the entire Christian life. Learning the full breadth of the Psalms will form our hearts to repentance, trust, thanks, and praise—giving us the posture that’s needed for every experience we face as Christians.

Biblical Eldership – Alex Strauch’s Landmark Book

Church & Family Life — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 06:00:00 +0000

For 35 years, Alexander Strauch’s book, Biblical Eldership: An Urgent Call to Restore Biblical Church Leadership, has been the premier book explaining the biblical teaching on church eldership, which is shared pastoral leadership by a council of scripturally-qualified elders. Theologically sound and eminently practical, Alex’s book helped ignite a worldwide awakening to this long-neglected and misunderstood subject.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm welcome Alex to discuss his completely revised edition of his classic work. The new version, titled Biblical Eldership: Restoring the Eldership to Its Rightful Place in the Local Church, features a word-for-word exposition of all the key biblical texts on eldership—as the original—yet offers a new chapter, “Making Pastoral Eldership Work,” as well as a more developed discussion on the full parity—yet functional diversity—of elders within a local church.

7 Good Marriage Habits to Prepare Your Children for Matrimony

Church & Family Life — Mon, 06 May 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In preparing one’s children to be married, the most important inheritance parents can give them is not money, but the example of a faithful marriage, based on God’s Word, lived out before them. While didactic training is necessary, the age-old adage is true—there’s more “caught than taught.” In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss seven good marriage habits that couples should embrace that not only honor God, but that will prepare their children for strong marriages, one day, as the Lord blesses.

First, learn how to talk. Second, get reconciled quick. Third, don’t always have to do things your own way. Fourth, think the best of one another. Fifth, accept shortcomings. Sixth, deal with disappointments in a healthy way. And, seventh, create a happy home life. To boil it all down— make sure your marriage is a happy marriage, rooted in Christ, that creates a happy home.

The Top 10 Duties of Church Members

Church & Family Life — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Membership in a local church involves more than just signing a card and occasionally showing up for a Sunday service. God’s Word gives particular duties that church members are to uphold toward their church leadership, fellow members, as well to their own respective families. But just what are these responsibilities? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Trent Moody, answer the question, outlining the top ten duties of church members.

One, work and pray for the unity of the spirit. Two, seek the salvation of the different groups of people you relate to—those in our families, communities, and workplaces. Three, submit to your church leaders as they are faithful to Christ. Four, contribute cheerfully and regularly to the church. Five, faithfully assemble with your local church. Six, maintain family and private devotions. Seven, watch over each other in brotherly love. Eight, don’t practice things which jeopardize your own faith or another’s faith. Nine, be slow to take offense. And, ten, submit to biblically-defined church discipline.

How We Dress Matters - The Doctrine of Clothing Considered

Church & Family Life — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

As Christians, we’re not free to dress as we please. Because we’ve been “bought at a price” we’re to “glorify God in [our bodies]” (1 Cor. 6:20). We learn this lesson from our first parents. Adam and Eve dressed their own way by covering their loins with fig leaves. Yet God viewed their effort as inadequate and designed more substantial clothing, using skins from a dead animal. The doctrine of clothing thus points to the substitutionary atonement of Christ: He removes our filthy garments and replaces them with robes of righteousness.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Jeff Pollard, break down the doctrine of clothing, explaining that it’s about far more than modesty. If Christ has purchased us with His blood, how we dress matters. To paraphrase Abraham Kuyper, “There is not one square inch [of our clothing] over which Christ . . . does not cry, ‘Mine!’” Ultimately, our clothing isn’t about us and what we like. It’s about giving ourselves to the Lord to bring glory to Him in how dress.

AI: How We Are Using it for Good

Church & Family Life — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Since ChatGPT launched last year, AI has dominated headlines, with its great benefits and real abuses being hotly debated worldwide. Without question, AI is poised to transform how governments, companies, ministries, and individuals manage information and engage in problem-solving. But how should Christians respond to this emerging technology?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by Church and Family Life Technical Lead Colton Neifert, explain how technology, at its core, is a means to do things more efficiently, which Christians should welcome, when used rightly, as a means for godly dominion. Though AI can be harnessed for evil, Colton explains the exciting new ways that Church & Family Life has employed AI to offer thousands of new online resources to build up Christians, as well as new innovative tools that churches on the FIC Network can use to encourage their congregations.

Why Most New Year’s Resolutions Fail

Church & Family Life — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Should Christians make “New Year’s Resolutions?” The answer is “yes,” as believers are under a Divine order to “excel still more” (1 Thess. 4:1, NASB)—to “be fruitful in every good work” (Col. 1:10) and to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Pet. 3:18).

But why do most fall short of their yearly resolutions? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Mat Dewing, attack the problem head on. They explain the need to make resolutions that matter and are “SMART”—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-specific. And if you have a bad day or week? Persevere, “knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 2:3-4).

How to Have Tough Conversations

Church & Family Life — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

When it comes to having tough conversations with a spouse, friend, fellow believer, or co-worker, some are willing to sail right into the storm and throw everything on the table. Others, by contrast, are terrified in approaching any discussion that’s remotely uncomfortable. Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum, God’s Word gives clear principles to guide our hearts and words as we prepare for difficult talks.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason, joined by guest Taylor Tsantles, discuss these principles. The first is to love sincerely from the heart. We should strive to have this relationship equity with others, even before challenges arise. This will help smooth the way when tough conversations are necessary, because they know we care about them as a person. The second is to avoid harmful communication patterns such as using harsh words or tones, refusing to listen, and trying to force outcomes. We should instead be filled with the Spirit and be on a mission to bless—even when sharing hard truths.

How Should a Young Man Prepare for Marriage?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0000

How should a young man prepare for marriage? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm address this question with special guest Hayden Ford who was married a year ago. Hayden credits his parents’ commitment to teach God’s Word daily and to model a godly husband-wife relationship in the home as giving him a great foundation in preparing him for marriage—but young men need more than this to be ready.

Key lessons from Hayden: Be disciplined students of the Scriptures yourselves, learning God’s attributes and knowing what His Word says about the important issues of life. Purpose to have a consistent income and ample savings. Honor the authorities God has placed in your life, humbly getting their opinion on your readiness for matrimony. And stop seeking marriage as your driving aim, but strive to be more like Christ each day.

Put First Things First - Read the Bible in 2024!

Church & Family Life — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 06:00:00 +0000

What’s your reading plan for 2024? The Bible should come first, above all other books, for God’s Word makes wise the simple. It rejoices the heart. It converts the soul. It’s a true and unchanging witness that is sufficient for all of our needs. As such, it should take precedent in our personal study, as well as in what we read aloud to our families.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by Church and Family Life Technical Lead Colton Neifert, discuss Journey Through the Bible. This daily Bible reading plan began as a book, but is now available as an app you can take with you anywhere. Great for personal study and family worship, it includes a daily Scripture reading, so you can read the Bible in a year. But there’s much more! For each book of the Bible: (1) read the outline and overview; (2) listen to the summary audio message; (3) sing a hymn on the theme; (4) ask important study questions; (5) memorize key verses; and (6) learn top 5 facts to remember. As you start 2024, read God’s Word and saturate your family with it!

Learn more and download The Journey Through the Bible app here.

What Are You Doing With Your Time?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Time is a precious gift of God. But what are Christians doing with this valuable asset? Are they using their time to promote their own self-interests or wisely investing it for the glory of Christ?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm are joined by data analyst Drew Davis, who shares his research on how people use their time. The trends are disturbing. The average American, for example, spends 2 ½ hours a day consuming television and radio—not to mention their time on their phone and tablets. And young people entering adulthood are playing more than working at an increasingly higher rate. Rather than squander time, their charge to believers is this: “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Eph. 5:15-16).

Get Wisdom, Thoughts for Young People

Church & Family Life — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Young people struggle with the same dangerous pitfalls in every generation. They’re typically full of zeal but lack wisdom and consistency. They view the advice of their elders as backwards and prefer the opinions of their peers. Though technology and cultures change, these same errors ensnare the young, over and over again.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm call out the key traps so common to youth and urge them to follow the path of true wisdom. Their counsel is to the point: Understand the devastation of sin and don’t dally with it. Kill envy between brothers and sisters. Be careful who your friends are. Don’t hand influence to worldly peers or pop stars. Listen to the counsel of wiser older people, instead. Drawing insights from such authors as Matthew Henry and Charles Spurgeon (as collected in the book, The Theology of the Family), Scott and Jason seek to fortify the young by pointing them to the sure path found in God’s Word.

How to Teach Your Children to Sing

Church & Family Life — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Singing is one of the glorious gifts of the church. It draws you into the beauty of the kingdom and the power and truth of God. If this is true, what are you as parents doing to teach your children to sing and prepare them for corporate worship?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm offer five key scriptural insights highlighted in the book, The Family at Church: Teach your children to sing (1) to teach others God’s Word and (2) to admonish one another; and teach them to sing (3) to God personally, (4) to the unconverted, and (5) to their own souls. Rather than view singing as an option, parents should guide their children to joyfully obey God’s command: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord” (Col. 3:16).

Inspiring Thanksgiving Celebrations- Make Thanksgiving Great Again!

Church & Family Life — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Thanksgiving, as a yearly celebration, has all but been canceled in today’s culture, with stores transitioning directly from Halloween to Christmas. It’s as if the story of our Pilgrim forefathers doesn’t matter. And where it is acknowledged, it is dubbed a “day of mourning” by Leftists who loathe the Christian heritage of the small band of believers who settled Plymouth in 1620.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guests Steve Hopkins and Gill Arterburn, urge listeners to make Thanksgiving great again. They suggest that families engage in special readings, with excerpts from the Pilgrims and Psalms, sing period songs, and play fun, but meaningful games that give gratitude to God and commemorate the rich legacy of the Pilgrims. Learn from their inspiring Thanksgiving celebrations as you plan your day together with your family.

Click here to read Scott Brown’s “Fifteen Tips for Celebrating Thanksgiving Day.”

Click here to read Steve Hopkins’ “History of the Pilgrims.”

Evaluating Your Child’s Profession of Faith

Church & Family Life — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 06:00:00 +0000

How do you discern whether a child is a Christian based on his profession of faith to you or to a pastor during a baptism interview? Are they coming forward for baptism to please their parents and to follow what they’ve seen others do—or is their genuine contrition for sin and true belief?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Trent Moody, tackle these thorny questions. They maintain that being born again is more than mental assent to certain Gospel truths; it comes to a heart who knows the weight of sin, a heart that beats with fervent faith that the Savior has washed him clean from his corruption. And it comes with a cost: The child’s allegiance must be to Christ first, even above their own family. Their deepest affection must be to the things of God and His Word.

Girls Coming Out – It’s Time for Women to Shine!

Church & Family Life — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 06:00:00 +0000

There’s never been a better time for women to shine. With feminism’s dark shadow looming large, Christian girls have the opportunity to show what joy-filled femininity looks like in practice. Rather than fall prey to the bondage of “woman’s liberation,” they should embrace the Bible’s beautiful picture of womanhood, which brings fulfillment and lasting hope.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, encourage ladies to “come out” from the world by swimming against the cultural tide and living out godly womanhood. This means being an active dominion-taker, domestic entrepreneur, submissive and respectful wife, keeper at home, faithful member of a local church, bearer of children, and teacher of the next generation. Instead of being drug down by worldly music and fashion trends, women should claim the moral high ground, shining a bright light for Christ in their homes and communities.

Wives Speak Up on Having Children in Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +0000

The Scripture’s witness is clear—we’re to joyfully bring our children into the public worship of God. Yet this blessed opportunity is not without challenge, especially for the young who are prone to distraction. So how should parents prepare their little ones for the meeting of the church?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by their wives Deborah and Janet, share practical tips on how to go about this. Drawing from personal experience, they counsel dads to take the lead in training their kids to be attentive through family devotions in the home, and for moms to have clothes and other necessities laid out ahead of time to smooth the way for Sunday worship. Other advice they give: Don’t let your children resort to “playtime” when you take them out for correction or other needs, but seek to grow their affections for the blessings of the worship service.

The Harmony of Law and Gospel

Church & Family Life — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In every generation, the relationship between the law and the gospel is fiercely debated, as if the two are at odds with one another. We’re under grace now, not law, some claim, while others pridefully parade their law-keeping, believing it merits their salvation. Neither position is correct.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm cut through the confusion and show how law and gospel work together for our good. The law, they explain, is a reflection of who God is in all His moral perfections, so to argue that it’s now abrogated is an affront to His eternal character. Because no man can perfectly keep the law, it therefore drives sinners to the Gospel, as Christ bore the curse of the law as the only perfect lawkeeper, making the way for salvation. Once redeemed, the Christian should strive to grow more in God’s likeness each day and joyfully exclaim, “Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day” (Ps. 119:97).

Pierre Viret on Christian Nationalism

Church & Family Life — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 06:00:00 +0000

With the 2024 election season in full swing, where are we to turn for answers as the presidential candidates exchange barbs and make competing claims? French Reformer Pierre Viret gives the right answer: “the law of God alone is the true standard by which all good and just government must be ruled and conformed.” Simply put: man’s law brings chaos, when it comes to the civil realm, while God’s law brings order and beauty.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm unpack the wisdom of Viret, who had to learn to live with flexibility under multiple different governments during his public ministry. Writing in the 16th century, he gave valuable insights that were recently compiled into the book, When to Disobey: Case Studies in Tyranny, Insurrection, & Obedience to God. Viret’s contention is this: Whether believers face suffering or enjoy blessing, they always have a way forward because they can obey God as they engage the civil sphere. Be they under a king, aristocracy, or representative government, Christians should pull whatever levers they can to advance God’s law and leave the results to Him.

Click here to purchase Viret’s insightful book.

New Zealand Church Lessons from the COVID Crisis

Church & Family Life — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

At the height of the COVID crisis, state governments around the world forbade churches from gathering on the Lord’s Day and restricted pastors and loved ones from visiting the sick in the hospital. The lockdown policies were particularly severe in New Zealand, which compelled a number of committed pastors and Christians there to push back and form the group, Free to Be Church.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm interview New Zealand pastors Kris Baines and André Bay, discussing lessons learned during this trying time. The first and foremost lesson is that Christ, not the state, is the exclusive head of the church, and His mandate for local churches to gather must be followed. Churches must worship and fellowship as God directs, not invent pragmatic online alternatives. And, finally, true love for our neighbor comes through obedience to Christ, not by seeking the favor of our community or civil leaders.

Answering Our Greatest Need: A Global Day of Prayer for Revival

Church & Family Life — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In these dark days, the greatest need the world has is for revival. Yet without the work of the Holy Spirit, all our efforts to bring it about will be in vain. True revival only occurs when the Sprit moves mightily on a people as the Gospel is proclaimed.

In this podcast Scott Brown and Jason Dohm interview pastor Jeffrey Johnson, whose heart was gripped by this reality while ministering in Kenya several months ago. Compelled to action, Johnson contacted fellow pastors about the need for the church to actively pray for revival across the world. These discussions led to the establishment of October 3-4 of this year as a Global Day of Prayer for Revival. Such men as Paul Washer, Joel Beeke, and Tom Ascol have joined with Johnson in calling on local churches worldwide to devote this time to humble contrition and earnest fasting and prayer—appealing to God that His Spirit might move in an extraordinary way and revive souls across the nations.

To learn more about this day of prayer and join the effort, visit https://globalprayerforrevival.com/.

Valuing Public Prayer: Nine Rules for Corporate Prayer Meetings

Church & Family Life — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0000

On October 3-4, churches around the world will be gathering for a Global Day of Prayer for Revival. In preparation for this event, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Jeffery Johnson, are encouraging Christians to highly value public prayer and to actively participate in it in their local church. And, in this podcast, they discuss nine practical rules for corporate prayer meetings.

First, pray from the heart. Suppress self-consciousness and pray fervently and sincerely. Second, prepare to pray. Make a short list or mental outline ahead of time of your praises and petitions. Third, pray short, not long-winded prayers. Fourth, pray to God; don’t preach sermons to men. Fifth, pray Scripture. Sixth, pray with confidence in our Savior’s work and sovereignty, knowing that He lives to make intercession for us. Seventh, pray engagingly. Pray loud enough for others to hear. And, as others are praying, don’t daydream, but join in affirming their appeals, either through silent prayer or out loud with “Amens.” Eighth, pray the promises of God. And, ninth, pray in faith, knowing God delights in giving good gifts to His children.

To learn more about the Global Day of Prayer for Revival and to join the effort, visit https://globalprayerforrevival.com/.

God’s Work Alone: The Life Story of Conrad Mbewe

Church & Family Life — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Conrad Mbewe was born into a tight-knit family in the African country of Zambia. Yet he entered a dark period at age nine, when his mother—the sunshine of his life—passed away. In response to her death, his father turned to the bottle, even as Conrad and his two siblings were taken in by other relatives.

In this Church and Family Life podcast, Conrad gives his life story, sharing how his elder sister’s faith in Christ floored him. As their father sold off treasured family belongings to buy liquor, his sister radiated joy—singing “Amazing Grace” while she prepared a meal that was next to nothing. But Conrad still thought his “good deeds” were enough. This changed when a friend declared to him that salvation is solely God’s work. Driven to his knees, Conrad repented and gave his life to Christ. After a short stint as a mining engineer, he accepted a call at age 25 to pastor Kabwata Baptist Church, located in the Zambian capital of Lusaka. Serving there since 1987, Conrad has helped to start roughly 40 other Reformed churches in countries across Africa.

From Athlete to Missionary: The Life Story of Paul Carrington

Church & Family Life — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Growing up, Paul Carrington never heard the Gospel. A native of downtown Toronto, he took to sports and met his future wife Melinda at a nightclub when he was eighteen. In God’s sovereignty, Melinda was soon converted to Christ—a change which made Paul mad. While playing hip-hop music in his bedroom one night, he began to read the Bible in the hopes of dismantling Melinda’s faith. Yet, in a miraculous work, the same Spirit that had saved his girlfriend gripped Paul’s soul as he read the Scriptures, and he surrendered his life to Jesus.

Becoming radicalized for Christ, Paul married Melinda. And while they lost old friends due to their witness, their zeal for God led them to share their faith around the world in remote huts in the Kenya bush, in shacks in the slums of the Dominican Republic, and in Muslim strongholds of Western Turkey. Paul and his wife currently live in North Carolina with their six children and remain active in missionary work through the translation and distribution of Christian resources into Turkish, Farsi, Russian, and Arabic.

Prayer for Revival

Church & Family Life — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0000

From Boy-Fisherman to Fisher of Souls: The Life Story of Alexander Strauch

Church & Family Life — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Alexander Strauch began his early boyhood in bustling Newark, New Jersey, surrounded by concrete in a tight-knit community of German-speaking immigrants. At age ten, his family moved to the country—a dramatic change from cramped city-life to sprawling forests, filled with beautiful streams and woods. Alex loved his new environment and began to hunt reptiles and fish almost every day.

In this podcast, Alex shares his life story, describing how God used his love for fishing to bring him to Christ. When he was invited by a friend to fish at a Christian camp in New York State, little did he know that his friend was fishing for his soul. Alex was saved there at age eleven and, by age thirteen, he was compelled to serve Christ in ministry. After attending Bible college, Alex landed at Littleton Bible Chapel in the midst of the Jesus Revolution. It was there he met his future wife, Marilyn, as they ministered to youth together. Alex served as an elder of this church for more than forty years and now devotes his time to helping other churches better conform to the Bible’s teaching on leadership roles and loving one another. His books Biblical Eldership, The New Testament Deacon, and Agape Leadership have been a great help to churches around the world.

Why the Birth Decline? Christians Should Embrace Fruitfulness

Church & Family Life — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Historically, Christian nations have welcomed the fruit of the womb as a great blessing of God. Yet over the last six decades, there’s been a stark shift away from fruitfulness, as selfishness has displaced a love for many children. In the U.S. alone, the total fertility birthrate per woman has dropped from 3.58 in 1960 to a low point of 1.77 in 1979. And 2022’s total was a meager bump up from there to 1.78.

So what’s at the heart of this fertility decline? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by data analyst Drew Davis, break down the global numbers, explaining how women leaving the home for the workforce, the rise of contraceptives and abortion, and a general valuing of more “worldly things” over eternal souls have led to this unbiblical shift. Despite these bad trends, Christians should joyfully return to the Scripture’s call to “be fruitful and multiply” (Gen. 1:28). They should embrace the great Gospel impact they can have by raising more sons and daughters to fear the Lord—children who “shall not be ashamed, but [who] shall speak with the enemies in the gate” (Ps. 127:5).

How to End Abortion and Legalize Life: A 4-Part Strategy

Church & Family Life — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Though the Supreme Court has overturned Roe v. Wade, the bloody genocide of abortion continues. Each day in America, more than 3,000 children are still being killed in the womb. Despite rhetoric to the contrary, abortion remains legal in all fifty states. Yes, many abortion mills have closed, but this has done little to stop the murder of the unborn. Under the reign of Roe, doctors typically perpetrated abortions, but now the mother, in increasingly more cases, has become the active killer, taking the life of her child through mail-order pills. In view of this travesty, how can Christians who love life engage this battle? In this podcast Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Bradley Pierce, president of the Foundation to Abolish Abortion, outline a blueprint for engagement. In addition to heartfelt outreach to mothers, they outline a 4-part strategy for the civil sphere: Become an educated voter, a genuine encourager of civil office-holders, a grassroots mobilizer, and a principled pro-life candidate. While not everyone can be involved on all four levels, every Christian should seek to stand on principle for every life—born or unborn—as they have opportunity.

How to Evaluate and Govern Emotions: A Biblical Approach

Church & Family Life — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Every man, woman, and child are created with emotions. It’s part of our very being as image-bearers of God. Yet not every swing of our emotions is good. Anxiety, for example, is a rejection of the promises of God. It is a lack of trust in His never-failing care for His people. Yearning for an emotional high, devoid of God’s Word, is another trap that is sinful. So how should we evaluate and govern our emotions biblically? In this podcast Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Brian Borgman, answer this question, outlining Christ’s show of emotions as a model for us. Even as we must shun empty emotionalism, we should strive for the joining together of head and heart, doctrine and devotion, light and heat. Our goal should be to conform our will and emotions to the image of Christ, so we can exclaim with the Psalmist, “I have set the LORD always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; My flesh also will rest in hope” (Ps. 16:8-9).

More Children or Not? What God’s Word Says about Fruitfulness

Church & Family Life — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0000

You have how many children!?! In today’s world, eyebrows raise, and questions of wisdom and sanity follow, whenever a couple desires more than two or three kids. How can you afford more? Where will you find the time to properly teach each child? What kind of quality of life will you enjoy if you keep having babies?

In this podcast Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Bradley Pierce, look to the Bible to address the question of family size. The overall emphasis in Scripture is clear, as God directs couples to “be fruitful and multiply” (Gen. 1:28; 9:1), calling the fruit of the womb a “reward” (Ps. 127:3). Rather than prizing maximum comfort in the near term, couples should take the longer view by cherishing as many eternal souls God chooses to give so that they might raise a “godly offspring” (Mal. 2:15).

Watch the Message from Bradley Pierce at the FORGE Conference.

Finding Joy in the Christian Life—In Good and Bad Times

Church & Family Life — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Christian joy is not subject to how good or bad our situation is. God gives joy to His people in hard times as well as in seasons of ease and plenty. Jesus modeled this on His way to the cross, declaring the joy He had in obeying His Father as He abided in His love (John 15:9-11).

In this podcast Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest John Snyder, discuss finding joy in the Christian life, looking to Jesus as the ultimate example. During His earthly ministry, Christ was the happiest of men, being “anointed . . . with the oil of gladness more than [His] companions” (Heb. 1:9). Jesus lived in the awareness of his Father’s love for Him which brought Christ unceasing joy. As believers enveloped in this same love, we should reject despondency in our souls and be a joyful people, no matter our circumstances, for “Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!” (Ps. 144:15).

Read, Pray, Sing: Making Christ the Center of Your Marriage

Church & Family Life — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Marriage is a sacred one-flesh union which should be dearly cherished by both husband and wife. Yet many couples fall into the trap of making their spouse the center of their marriage, rather than God. This can only lead to disillusionment, as our mate will, in time, fall short and disappoint us—especially whenever God is not exalted as the primary focus of the marital bond.

In this podcast Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Steve Hopkins, address this pitfall and explain how to make Christ preeminent in marriage. Their outline is simple: Strive to become like Christ through daily personal Bible reading and prayer, corporate daily Bible reading and prayer with one’s whole family, and daily prayer alone together as husband and wife. Rather than looking to your spouse as the source of fulfillment, exalt God’s Word, sing songs together, and earnestly seek the face of Christ.

A Speedbump: Sounding a Warning on Alcohol Abuse

Church & Family Life — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Over the last twenty years, alcohol and drug use have risen, with marijuana being legalized in 23 states, and popular breweries and pubs popping up in downtowns across America. LSD use has doubled over this period, and CBD gummies are now available at corner shops everywhere. In the midst of this uptick, a number of popular Reformed pastors and commentators are openly drinking alcohol on their podcasts, extolling the virtues of their favorite whiskey or beer.

What is the Christian to make of all of this—particularly where alcohol is concerned? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Tom Ford, break down the issues biblically, explaining the lawful use of alcohol, while issuing a sober warning about the life-destroying dangers of drunkenness. Rather than seeking solace in an altered state of mind, Christians must follow the Scriptures: “Be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit” (Eph. 5:18).

The Confessional Family? The Importance of a Church Confession in Child Raising

Church & Family Life — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0000

What does a reformed confession such as the 1689 Baptist Confession and the Westminster Confession of faith have to do with your family. Can your children defend the doctrine of the trinity, God’s decrees and divine providence, the nature of the fall of man, and the way of salvation in Christ?

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Trent Moody, discuss how a sound confession of faith is vital for families and churches. All three men hold to the 1689 London Baptist Confession of Faith, which stands as one of the richest and most helpful statements of faith ever written. Exalting Scripture as the ultimate standard, the 1689 Confession contains a treasure trove of orthodox doctrine, with scriptural proofs for further study. The confession’s original “letter to the reader” calls on fathers to teach the core truths of Scripture to their households, even as church elders should do the same to the household of faith.

Should Young Children Who Profess Christ be Baptized?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Baptism is to be one of the first acts of obedience for a believer when they repent and come to Christ in faith (Acts 2:38; 8:35-38). But how should parents and elders respond to the testimony of young children who profess Christ? Is there a certain “age of maturity” kids should reach before being baptized?

In this podcast Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Jeffrey Johnson, tackle this thorny topic. Arguing against a minimum age, they emphasize that, prior to baptism, children should demonstrate a cognitive maturity and clear articulation of the gospel they profess, accompanied by tangible fruit of a real heart change. Acknowledging that children are impressionable, they counsel for careful evaluation of each child’s profession, while also encouraging baptism when the signs of conversion are clear. This is somewhat of a counterpoint of the podcast with Sam Waldron on the same subject.

A Family Shepherd Passes Away: A Tribute to David Fry

Church & Family Life — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0000

If you knew the span of your life would be thirty years shorter than you expected, what would you change? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Isaac Botkin, discuss the inspiring legacy of David Fry, who recently passed away at age 54. When diagnosed with pancreatic cancer two years ago, David didn’t meaningfully change much of how he was living his life. That’s because he had already been living like he was dying, making the most of his time by carefully shepherding his family and investing in his local church.

David’s memorial service was a stunning and beautiful witness to his earnest faithfulness, as his six sons and two daughters all proclaimed scripture after scripture their father taught them They testified to his active and loving involvement in each of their lives. David gave up financial gain to have more time to teach and walk with his children in God’s word and point them to Christ—an encouraging and convicting example for all dads to take to heart as they lead their families.

LGBT Pride Month — Nothing to Be Proud Of

Church & Family Life — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0000

LGBT Pride Month, held each June, is nothing to be proud of. In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss how deviant sexual behavior has gone from being abhorred to being widely celebrated in a mere fifty years. Not only have the anti-sodomy laws in most states been repealed, but leading corporations are embracing the LGBT agenda in their internal policies and publicly promoting it during Pride Month.

Looking to God’s word, they explain that the shameful celebration of this deviancy is condemned by God and a clear sign of His judgment. Yet there’s hope for those caught in this wicked lifestyle who repent of their sins—just as there was in Paul’s time: “And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God” (1 Cor. 6:11).

View Tom Ascol Interview on Homosexuality with NBC2 News Here. on

For Busy Moms & Dads — Tips for Interpreting the Bible

Church & Family Life — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Should interpreting the Bible be left to the “experts”? While certain high-minded scholars have argued this, the Scriptures plainly direct fathers and mothers to train their children up in the ways of God—and this can only happen by them carefully reading His word and explaining it.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by guest Chris Law, encourage parents to actively read and discuss the Scriptures with their children, and they offer some helpful interpretive keys to use. The first is context: who is the author of a particular book addressing, where is he located, and what is he speaking about? Other principles: clear texts interpret unclear texts; specific texts interpret general texts; and literal texts interpret figurative texts. They also urge parents to not miss the big picture, but to make it their chief aim to show their children how great and wonderful God is whenever they open His word.

Check out our book "Journey through the Bible"

Abortion and Life — The Need for a Gospel-Heart Change

Church & Family Life — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0000

The greatest need for mothers with an unwanted pregnancy in not a temporal mind change, but a fundamental heart change that heeds the hope of the Gospel. Choosing life for moms should start with choosing eternal life, through the power of the Holy Spirit, and then choosing to keep the precious child in their womb.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Brian Ottinger and Anthony Mathenia, discuss the work of Love Life, a pro-life outreach ministry that exists to unite and mobilize the church and create a culture of love and life that will result in the end to the abortion and orphan crisis. Love Life hosts regular prayer walks outside abortion clinics across the US, and their House of Refuge Network directs moms to find a church in their area that will not only encourage them to choose life for their baby, but be discipled into the family of God.

Check out Love Life Ministries or watch their Legalize Life series by Bradley Pierce.

Memorial Day Lessons: Preparing Boys for Battle

Church & Family Life — Mon, 29 May 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Psalm 44:1 declares: “We have heard with our ears, O God, Our fathers have told us, The deeds You did in their days, In days of old.”

From his earliest days, Scott Brown remembers his dad Bill—a P-51 Mustang pilot during the Battle for Iwo Jima—fulfilling the words of this Psalm. The elder Brown not only gave Scott a WWII K-Bar when he was a young boy, but he regaled his son with stories of God’s faithfulness during this epic conflict in the Pacific. And the senior Brown, known to his grandchildren as “Gan,” did the same with David, Scott’s son, when he was growing up.

In this Memorial Day podcast, Scott and David share their memories of joining Mr. Brown on a special trip to Iwo Jima for the sixtieth anniversary of the battle. The two learned many lessons from the late patriarch of their family, sixteen of which are highlighted in the book Preparing Boys for Battle—lessons on such character qualities as purity, friendship, discipline, work, and taking on mighty challenges for the Lord. And these lessons—all gleaned from the grueling 36-day battle for Iwo—are as needed now for the boys of this generation as they were for the soldiers of WWII.

For great stories for Memorial Day, get an audible or hard copy of our book, Preparing Boys for Battle, and Moment of Courage, which contains dozens of lessons on manhood derived from the Battle for Iwo Jima.

TODAY ONLY, we are offering these books for 40% off.

Why Family Worship? Two Young Dads Share their Journey (Part 2)

Church & Family Life — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Cameron and Chandler Wood grew up in the hey-day of Christian youth culture where the driving thought was, “Let the church raise your kids in the ways of the Lord.” Watching many of their friends fall away, these two brothers—now married with children—are crying out for a better way, where fathers take the lead in discipling their children through family worship. In this 2-part podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm interact with clips from the brothers’ past discussion, recorded when they were in their 20s with 3 kids each.

In Part 2, the Wood brothers explain how that dads must show patience in carrying out the biblical mandate to train their children, especially when they’re young. Through personal trial and error, Cameron and Chandler relate how they simplified their family worship time, noting that a father’s heart for his child should not be focused on the world’s notion of success, but on their eternal soul. They also emphasize that dads must strive to faithfully live out the message before their children and not be hypocrites. Time is fleeting, they stress, so seize this precious season with your kids!

Why We Work: Seeking Joyful Purpose in Every Labor

Church & Family Life — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Full-time service to Christ is not simply being a pastor or missionary. Whether you’re a baker or car mechanic, a delivery man or investment banker, a dairy farmer or a mom tending her children at home—all the work you do should be done heartily unto the Lord.

In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, joined by special guest Scott Aniol, explain that the doctrine of work encompasses every lawful vocation and is based in God himself. God worked in bringing about creation, and we as His image-bearers are called to work also. Significantly, the calling to work came in a perfect Garden that Adam and Eve were to tend. Though labor is now more difficult due to sin’s curse, it is inherent to the created order. Whatever work Christians put their hands to do should thus be pursued with joyful purpose, excellence, and integrity—and for God’s ultimate glory.

From Campground Caller to Gospel Minister: The Life Story of Trent Moody

Church & Family Life — Mon, 22 May 2023 05:00:00 +0000

As a boy, Trent Moody delighted in ringing a cast-iron bell from the back of a pick-up truck, calling folks to Sunday morning worship. This was a highlight of his week, being raised at a campground his grandfather built in North Carolina’s mountains, where Trent’s dad and the rest of the family worked, welcoming guests from far and wide. Yet true faith in God did not come till later. In this podcast, Trent shares his life story, relating how he came under deep conviction, after a night partying with other teenagers, and gave his life to Christ. In time God gave Trent an even greater love for His word than the third-generation campground which had defined so much of his upbringing. As he meditated on Christ’s call to Peter to “feed my lambs” (John 21:15), Trent committed his life to pastoral ministry. This calling, alongside his marriage to his dear wife Angela and the discipling of their ten children, remains his focus to this day.

The Shy Kid from Wetumpka: The Life Story of Brandon Scroggins

Church & Family Life — Mon, 08 May 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Brandon Scroggins grew up in Alabama as a shy kid in small-town Watumpka. Plagued by the fear of man, he was deathly afraid of speaking or the spotlight. Then God powerfully saved him at age 15 and later shook him when he heard Paul Washer’s now-famous 2002 gospel message in person at a youth rally in Montgomery, after which Brandon gave his life to the ministry. In this podcast, Brandon shares his life story, relating how the power of God’s word has transformed his outlook and changed his approach to church and family. This shift, as he forsook seeker-sensitive and youth-driven outreach to follow the Bible, led to adversity within his church. Yet Brandon has seen God’s kindness through it all, as Christ has refined His bride and brought those hungry for His word together into sweeter communion.

How Should I Live as a Single Person?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 15 May 2023 05:00:00 +0000

“How should I live as a single person?” That’s the question Scott Brown and Jason Dohm discuss in this podcast, as they draw biblical wisdom on the subject from a new booklet by Dr. Joel Beeke and Paul Smalley. Among the truths they mine: The Lord reigns over marriage and singleness, so trust His timing and purpose. Singleness offers opportunities for undivided devotion, so make the most of this time. Flee the vices of worldly singleness. Avoid unrealistic expectations about your resources. Pray for grace to endure the afflictions of singleness. Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to pursue marriage. And live in hope—not of marriage first and foremost—but for the glory of God.

Why Family Worship? Two Young Dads Share their Journey (Part 1)

Church & Family Life — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 14:40:00 +0000

In Part 1, the Wood brothers explain that fathers have a mandate from Scripture to train their children, but it should be pursued with a deep-seated joy and fervor for God. Though it is Christ alone who brings salvation, dads should seek to instill a hunger for Him in their children—and not reduce their training to game-like “Bible drills.” The aim should not be to teach them to be good “moralists,” but to genuinely know God and be profoundly changed by who He is. Time is fleeting, they stress, so seize this precious season with your kids!

‘The Family at Church’ Intro – How to Transform Your Local Church Experience

Church & Family Life — Mon, 01 May 2023 05:00:00 +0000

As civilization is crumbling all around us, your family doesn’t have to collapse. God has ordained the local church as a central means to build you up with joy. That’s Scott Brown and Jason Dohm’s message in this podcast as they offer an introduction to the book, The Family at Church: 20 Days to Transform Your Local Church Experience. The book’s aim is to give practical steps on how parents can guide their children to get the most out of local church life: through the preaching of God’s Word, singing, ordinances, fellowship, and celebration of His weekly Sabbath rest.

For Young Ladies: Focus on the Most Valuable Things

Church & Family Life — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0000

How should young ladies channel their energies as they enter adulthood? In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm answer the question, discussing five high value things they should focus on: the value of time, rest, preparation, productivity in general, and a woman’s productivity. By making the most of their time, seeking refreshment in God’s weekly day of rest, increasing their capabilities and capacity to accomplish more through careful development, embracing the Dominion Mandate and Great Commission, and recognizing that home life is a key engine for kingdom advancement, young women can find peace and be used by God for His glory.

A Fresh Look: A Declaration of the Complementary Roles of Church and Family

Church & Family Life — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0000

The people of God must trust His word to define every area of their lives—to affirm the sufficiency of Scripture for all of faith and practice. It was in pursuit of this aim that a Declaration of the Complementary Roles of Church and Family was first published—to correct errors of families who have dismissed the local church and to correct the errors of local churches that have ignored the biblical model for discipling families. In this podcast, Scott Brown and Jason Dohm take a fresh look at the declaration, affirming the vital need for building up both institutions, affirming their complementary roles.

Should Children Stay Home till They’re Married?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0000

When a child hits 18, it’s time for them to leave home and make their own way—to sink or swim. That’s the default view in our day, but is it biblical? Join Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, along with special guest Steve Walker, as they take a fresh look at the question of a son or daughter leaving their parents’ home before marriage. In considering this matter, a trap we must avoid is the world’s narrative of self-glory and selfish independence. We must instead consider foundational principles of manhood and womanhood, as well as family and work life. We must ask: Would such a move promote greater holiness and spiritual growth—or less? And where a daughter is concerned, how would she be under meaningful protection, with this move? In all this, right hearts and motives must govern: Fathers should “not provoke [their] children to wrath,” (Eph. 6:4), even as their grown children should “honor [their] father and mother” (Eph. 6:2).

Rebellious Children: Should They Be Put Out of the Home?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000

How should parents respond to a defiant child who spurns their discipline? When should the child stay in the home? And at what point of stubborn rebellion should they be deemed “incorrigible” and be put out—for their own good and the sanctity of the family? These are vexing questions for any parent to grapple with, and there are no easy answers. Yet God Himself gave us a pattern to draw from. Join Scott Brown and Jason Dohm, along with special guest Phil Kayser, as they explain God’s fatherly example: He’s slow to anger and patient in disciplining wayward children, giving them many opportunities to repent. But, in extreme cases, where there’s unyielding defiance after repeated correction, He casts them out—with the goal that His discipline, in time, will pierce their hearts and restore them to right fellowship. Voicing a rejection of pop psychology, Scott, Jason, and Phil urge parents to seek the help of godly church leaders, along with other faithful counselors, to navigate these tough waters and call rebellious children to repentance.

From Blackjack Dealer to Reformed Pastor: The Life Story of Toby Logsdon

Church & Family Life — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 04:00:00 +0000

He grew up in Sin City. Raised in Vegas in the 1970s, Toby Logsdon spiked his hair and drenched himself in angry punk music. But this attempt to cope with childhood troubles brought him no lasting peace. At age 14, he attempted suicide. Now, looking back, Toby sees how God used this dark season as an angst-filled non-conformist to make him more bold as a Christian today. His later stints as a stockbroker and then casino dice man also yielded lasting lessons—that riches are futile, and men must press through in their work, even when it’s hard. Learn how God brought Toby from his post as a blackjack dealer on the Vegas strip to become a Reformed Baptist Pastor in the Seattle metro.

A Pastor’s Testimony on Family Integrated Worship - Fruit Takes Time

Church & Family Life — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0000

The fruit of faithfulness can’t be enjoyed overnight. It takes time to mature, through patient care and God’s blessing. That’s the message of pastor Kris Baines in this podcast as he shares his personal testimony of ministry in New Zealand. Kris currently serves as one of the pastors/elders of Community Bible Church in Wellsford, NZ, and previously planted and served at Redemption Church Christchurch. Over several years, God worked in Kris’s heart to embrace His full sovereignty and the sufficiency of Scripture and to uphold God’s call for families to worship together in the local church, rather than be age-segregated. Yet there were real growing pains in making this shift. With self-deprecating humor, Kris tells how his own children (along with those of other families) struggled to be orderly and attentive at first, but of the joyful fruit that has come in their children’s lives through loving perseverance. An encouraging message to “not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Gal. 6:9)!

The 1689 London Baptist Confession — A New Commentary

Church & Family Life — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In his 1st-century epistle, Jude called on believers “to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3). Sound doctrine was under attack in his day, and so it is in ours. What the Bible actually means has, in many corners, been distorted and lost. To combat falsehood and shore up God’s people in the truth, Church and Family Life advocates that churches embrace the 1689 London Baptist Confession, or one of the other historic Reformed confessions.

And so it’s with delight that we welcome Rob Ventura to the podcast to discuss a new commentary he’s published on the 1689 Confession. Join us for this discussion and discover how this defense of sound doctrine is a deep mine, filled with the everlasting treasuries of redemption. Note that in the confession’s original “Letter to the Reader,” they trace much of the “decay of religion” to a father’s neglect of family worship and instruction and appeal for doctrinal purity to “begin at home.” Learn how it’s a wonderful tool for churches and families—a summary of fundamental doctrines for the whole family and church to master, to keep from departing from the true faith.

Click here to purchase this New Exposition of the London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689.

Click here to get a paperback copy of the 1689 Confession.

Work with Your Children for the Spread of the Gospel – Interview with Christopher Prieto

Church & Family Life — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Christopher Prieto believes his business has a primary purpose - the spiritual profit in communicating the Gospel. His restaurant, Prime Barbecue, is renowned for serving the region's best BBQ. It's the place we go for special occasions; the food is simply delicious! Church and Family Life recently had a staff meeting there. And when I looked up, an 8-year-old girl was standing at the table asking us if everything was ok;did we have everything we needed; and could she could get us anything else? I said, "Do you work here?" "Yes!" I asked, "Does your daddy own this place?" "Yes!" Then a few minutes later, an older girl around 12 came up and said the same thing. I asked, "Do you work here?" "Yes!" Then I asked, "Does your daddy own this place?" Yes! Then I met their daddy, Christopher Prieto. We had a wonderful conversation about how fathers teach their children, hands-on, every day, "when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up" (Deut. 6:7). His story so inspired me and so we scheduled an interview. Here it is.

Conscience & Christian Liberty - Part 2

Church & Family Life — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 06:00:00 +0000

What does the conscience do, and how should we respond to our conscience? What does the conscience have to do with Romans 14? Jeff Pollard explains that the conscience judges works, accuses, and excuses. It does not do but speaks about what has been done. Someone called the conscience "God's deputy, God's spy, a sergeant to arrest the sinner." So how should we regard it in ourselves and others?

How to Have a Midlife Crisis

Church & Family Life — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Eric Bechler had a midlife crisis that led him to quit his job in Silicon Valley to start a small business he could operate with his children. Church and Family Life has been longtime advocates of parents walking with their children "when [they] sit in your house” and “walk by the way" (Deut. 6:7). This is the Hebrew model of discipleship. The Greek model focuses on philosophies, facts, and figures, while the Hebrew model focuses on walking with sons and daughters. Eric Bechler joins us to discuss how he worked through some of these issues with his family. Eric is an elder at Burnet Bible Church in Burnet, Texas. He and his wife have seven children. Eric worked for GE Nuclear for several years in San Jose, California, doing safety analyses for nuclear power plants. Then he worked for Applied Materials, a semiconductor manufacturer doing technical support for scanning electron microscopes and laser optical systems for semiconductor fabrication. Yet he left the glitter of Silicon Valley to live differently. He started a landscaping business so he could be closer to his family.

Young Men, This is For You

Church & Family Life — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Young Men, this is for you. We focused this podcast on success in the workplace. We are here to give you our top three things young men need to understand about work. We address those who work for companies and those who start companies.

Young People: Top 7 Financial Practices for You

Church & Family Life — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 06:00:00 +0000

This podcast is dedicated to young people just getting started financially. Getting on top of wise stewardship of resources is critical for young people. The earlier they apply Biblical wisdom, the sooner they will experience some level of financial freedom.

Scott Brown’s Life Story – How a Dad’s Decision Changed Everything

Church & Family Life — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Here is the life story of Scott Brown. Born in Alaska, Scott Brown grew up in Southern California in a stable and loving home. But, during a time of revival in his teen years, his father’s wise decision to take the family out of a liberal church to a Bible-preaching church changed everything.

Why Most New Years Resolutions Fail

Church & Family Life — Mon, 02 Jan 2023 06:00:00 +0000

'Tis the season for New Years' Resolutions! Should you make them? Is it Biblical to make them? If you do, what makes you fail, and what makes for failure? On this podcast, you will learn how to make SMART resolutions.

How to Read the Bible Next Year (Podcast ReRun)

Church & Family Life — Mon, 26 Dec 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Join us as we show you how to read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation next year, using the "Journey Through the Bible" method of Church and Family Life. Visit jttb.co/read for more information.

How to Celebrate Thanksgiving

Church & Family Life — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Let us give thanks for Thanksgiving! In this podcast, we talk about different ways you can celebrate this Thanksgiving. We live in a nation where the authorities formally call on us to give thanks to God. And they want us to take the day off – and get paid for it.

You can find my Fifteen Tips for Celebrating Thanksgiving here

At What Age Should We Baptize Children?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 06:00:00 +0000

What is an appropriate age for a child to be baptized according to the bible? (2 Tim 3:16). Since we believe the scripture is sufficient for all matters of life and godliness, this is the first question we should ask as we approach this matter. Join us with Sam Waldron as we discuss the various views, our experiences over the years, a survey of what the scriptures explicitly teach, and what we learn from Baptist history.

Here's a link to Sam Waldron's series on the baptism of children:
Shall We Baptize Children?

The Life Story of Rob Ventura

Church & Family Life — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Here is a man who grew up in a totally secular environment and was ushered into the world of Hip Hop as a promoter. But all that changed when his Karate instructor became a Christian and quit because of his newfound beliefs.

The Salvation of A Boy

Church & Family Life — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Paul Thompson, a pastor at Eastside Baptist Church, experienced the power of the Gospel through the family God gave him. Here is a story of the salvation of a boy in a godly Christian family. A boy whose favorite and the most influential preacher in his life was his father. A boy whose faith was stirred by his father’s conversations during car rides, "when they sat in the house and walked by the way."

The Lines Fell in Pleasant Places - The Life Story of Paul White

Church & Family Life — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Paul White grew up never doubting the reality of God and the efficacy of the sacrifice for his sins. He cannot remember ever having a different view, nor did he experience a time of rebellion. He has no dramatic conversion story except the dramatic mercies of God to cause the lines to fall in pleasant places.

A Church Vote Repenting for Pragmatism

Church & Family Life — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Paul Thompson was pastoring a traditional Southern Baptist Church in Idaho when he realized that his church was in the grip of pragmatism. He read “A Weed in the Church” and started blogging about it. Paul concluded that he needed to repent of comprehensive age segregation. So he led his whole church to repent for their innovations and then to turn to the principle of the sufficiency of scripture. They became a family-integrated church.

Pragmatism to Age Integration

Church & Family Life — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Carlton McLeod engaged in a careful process to transform a mainstream pragmatic church into a family-integrated church. He became frustrated with the loss of the younger generation. He did the most dangerous thing you can do – he went to the Bible. Here is the process his church engaged in.

I Ended Up in a Group of Radical Christians

Church & Family Life — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Jason was raised in a believing home, close enough to church that his family could walk to services when the weather was nice. Around age ten, Jason was in a vacation bible school when he heard the gospel preached by a teenager. Convinced that things were not right between him and God, he knew he needed the saving blood of Jesus Christ. Then and there, he believes God saved him. 

In high school, Jason fell in with a group of radical Christians who loved their Bibles and sought to be conformed to Christ and not the world. One of these Christians who discipled him turned out to be his future wife, Janet. Since being married, both have continued to have a heart to disciple others, actively serving the local church, even as God has blessed them with six children. When Jason reached his fortieth birthday, he left the electronics industry to devote his life to pastoral ministry.

The Almighty Conscience, Part 1

Church & Family Life — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Join us with Jeff Pollard to discuss how to understand the power and the constraints on the conscience. We discuss fundamental principles to handle our conscience and the different conscience controversies. Do you trample the consciences of others? Is your conscience your God?

What Does it Mean to be a “Keeper at Home”?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000

The Bible clearly instructs wives to be “keepers at home,” “so that the word of God might not be blasphemed” (Titus 2:5). It is clearly stated that there is something that happens when a woman is not a keeper at home which causes the Word of God to be blasphemed. The role of a wife is to be focused on taking dominion with her husband and children. The modern feeling is that a wife can be a CEO, teacher, or lawyer as long as she does not neglect her home. She can do it all. She does not need a singular focus on home life, but this is not how the Bible teaches wives to operate.

Problems from the Biblical Counseling Movement

Church & Family Life — Mon, 31 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

The Bible is sufficient for counseling. We are thankful for the Biblical Counseling Movement, which emerged in the late 1960s. It was one of the blessed moves of God where the church turned away from the language and principles of secular psychology to the use of the Word of God to understand human problems. In this podcast, we give thanks for the movement and the good that has come from it. We also examine some of the problems that have emerged.

Let’s Sing the Psalms

Church & Family Life — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

There is a resurgence of singing the Psalms today. But why is Psalm singing so rare in today’s church? Should we be singing imprecatory Psalms? How should churches and families best use the Psalms in their singing? Join us with Scott Aniol to answer these questions and discuss his new book on singing the Psalms, “Musing on God’s Music: Forming Hearts of Praise with the Psalms.” Look for it in 2023. Aniol writes, “C. H. Spurgeon was not wrong when he bemoaned, “It is to be feared that the Psalms are by no means so prized as in earlier ages of the church.” Here is the link to the recommended resource: https://psalms.seedbed.com/

A Good Boy – Saved

Church & Family Life — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Here is the Life Story of Scott Aniol. It is a story of an honorable son growing up in an orderly home and a good church. However, when he was fourteen, he realized that he was lost. The Lord changed his heart. His behavior did not change dramatically, but his heart was transformed.

Joel Beeke - The “greatest sinner on the face of the earth”

Church & Family Life — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Join us as we hear how a fourteen-year-old boy raised in a godly home was saved. Joel Beeke says he felt like “the greatest sinner on the face of the earth.” One day, a minister came over to visit and the whole family gathered around. The minister was talking to Joel’s grandfather and said, “for you too, there is a way of escape through Jesus Christ.” Joel told us he heard those words as though they were directed to him and, “that was the moment of my salvation. These words penetrated my soul. And I received it by faith, and the burden rolled off just like Christian in Pilgrims Progress.”

Life Story of Malamulo Chindongo

Church & Family Life — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Mala grew up on a small island in Africa’s vast Lake Malawi. Raised an Anglican, he neglected church and made basketball his idol in his college years, desiring a career in the NBA. Yet Mala’s dreams came to a screeching halt when he was stabbed by a gang of thugs and left for dead. No longer able to play ball due to his serious injuries, he grew bitter against God and turned to liquor.

Reflecting on his near-death experience, Mala realized that God had spared his life. Jesus’ words in John 3 pierced him. Confronted on his need for a new birth at a Bible study, he gave his life to Christ. Following his conversion, Mala met missionary Frank Maxson who discipled him in the faith and deepened his understanding of Scripture. Sensing a call to full-time ministry, Mala left his telecommunications job, founding Antioch Baptist Church in Blantyre, Malawi, where he has served as pastor since 2008.

The Tragedy of Autonomy in the Book of Judges

Church & Family Life — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

What happens when people abandon moral absolutes? John Snyder joins us to discuss his book and Bible study resource on the book of Judges. Judges is a case study of what happens when “Every man did what was right in his own eyes.” The results of radical autonomy are a clear warning to all of us. As Oprah Winfrey said, “Speaking your truth is the most powerful tool” Yes, it is powerful: evil people follow their hearts, and there is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death” (Jer 13:10, Prov 28:26 & Prov 14:12) and, woe to those who are wise in their own eyes (Isa 5:21).

You can access John Snyder’s study on Judges by clicking here on the Media Gratiae website.

Is God the Author of Sin? - Part 2

Church & Family Life — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This podcast is part 2 of our discussion of the Sovereignty of God with Jeffrey Johnson. If God is sovereign, then is he also the author of sin? Jeff writes, “This, my friends, is one of the most difficult questions in theology. If God is willing but unable to prevent evil, He is not omnipotent. If God is able but unwilling to prevent evil, He is not good. If He is willing and able to prevent evil, why is there evil?” These questions are the focus of our discussion. Find information here.

The Sovereignty of God - Part 1

Church & Family Life — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This podcast is part 1 of a discussion on the Sovereignty of God with Jeffrey Johnson. Embracing the doctrine of the sovereignty of God is the most life-giving thing you can do. It helps you understand everything happening in your life and the world around you. Jeffrey Johnson joins us to discuss this critical matter. He has written a book on the Sovereignty of God. We highly recommend that you read it. Find information here.

How to Be Close to Your Children

Church & Family Life — Mon, 29 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This podcast is part one of a two-part series as an encouragement to parents. The Bible gives parents instructions on how to bring up their children in such a way that draws them together. With Ephesians 6:1-4 as a backdrop, our discussion with Joel Beeke reveals the wisdom of God for doing just that with our children.

The Abortion Resistance Movement - Going Forward

Church & Family Life — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

The Supreme Court recently declared abortion on demand unconstitutional. What does that mean? Now what? Join us with Bradley Pierce, a Texas attorney, and long-time friend, to consider how Christians should think about laws limiting abortion? Also, his organization, Foundation to Abolish Abortion, is holding a conference for church leaders in Houston on August 19 https://faa.life/church-leaders-conference

Deaf to the Contemporary Prophets

Church & Family Life — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Church and Family Life exists to proclaim the sufficiency of Scripture. So, for our one-hundredth podcast. This podcast discusses the heartbeat of our ministry – the sufficiency of Scripture. The world's cultures are insufficient to teach the people of God how to be saved and live. The sufficiency of Scripture is always the heart of the problem in our families and churches. Using Joshua 23:6-8 as a springboard, we recognize the continental divide between the church and the world and the need to cleave to God and His Word. The greatest danger to the church is syncretism-following the contemporary prophets. The most excellent help, however, is the Word of God alone.

How to Bend the Youthful Sapling

Church & Family Life — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This podcast is part two of a two-part series on encouraging parents with Joel Beeke. One of the most challenging matters of parenting is discipline. What does the Bible say about discipline? What value is it? What Biblical principles can be applied to this question?

Reviving the Weekly Prayer Meeting at Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

God has always gathered His people together to pray. So why has the weekly prayer meeting gone out of favor? What are the blessings of weekly prayer meetings? What is the Biblical basis for gathering the church specifically for prayer midweek? What scriptural guidelines are there for prayer meetings? What are the common problems in prayer meetings? What about children in prayer meetings? Why do families with little kids often not attend regularly? What should we think about this?

Seven Things You Need to Know About Your Pastor

Church & Family Life — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

What do you need to know about your pastor? Do you understand what is pressing upon him? It has been recently reported that 51% of pastors are considering leaving the ministry in 2022, up from 29% in the previous year. Depression, church conflict, losing members, criticism, and low pay are the culprits. What can church members do about this?

Carlton McLeod’s Burnings in the Soul Message: https://churchandfamilylife.com/resources/62b471b6abdc5044b1bc5503

What Kind of Pastors do we Need?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 05:00:00 +0000

God has designed the church to be led by qualified pastors/elders. What are the qualifications? What kind of man does God desire to fill the office of elder? As it turns out, he is the kind of man every woman would want as a husband. Jeff Johnson’s Leaders Lunch Message on Pastors: https://churchandfamilylife.com/resources/62b4713cabdc5044b1bc5501

Gossip in the Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 05:00:00 +0000

How do you avoid a culture of gossip and slander in the local church? The Lord has designed a wonderful culture to be maintained in His church. Through many commands for governing our tongues, God keeps His church, “loving life and seeing good days.” (1 Peter 3:10). This session explains a church covenant that addresses this critical matter for happy church life.

Women’s Ministry in the Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 05:00:00 +0000

What does Biblical ministry to women look like in the church? The modern church has accumulated various unbiblical offices such as student pastor, children’s pastor, youth pastor, worship pastor, senior pastor, sports pastor, pastor of counseling, and women’s pastor. In the same way, we have also created unbiblical ministries in the church. One of those is what we call women’s ministries. These commonly focus on the emotional life of the women in the church. A new office in the church is created: women’s ministry leader. What should we think of these ministries? What does the Bible say?

More Resources on Women’s Ministry from Jeff Pollard:

Scripture is Sufficient for Women’s Ministry Part 1 Teachers of Good Things - https://churchandfamilylife.com/resources/60ca7fea23fa965169a3cd46

Scripture is Sufficient for Women’s Ministry Part 2 Keepers at Home - https://churchandfamilylife.com/resources/60ca7fed23fa965169a3cd47

Worship, Counseling, Preaching, and the Sufficiency of Scripture

Church & Family Life — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This is an overview examination of the doctrine of the sufficiency of Scripture through three lenses: Worship, Counseling, and Preaching.

Roman Catholic Inventions, Social Justice, Apologetics, Theology, and the Sufficiency of Scripture

Church & Family Life — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 05:00:00 +0000

How has the Catholic Church eroded the church's foundation by slowly moving away from the sufficiency of Scripture? How has the social justice movement, modern apologetics, and modern theological systems done the same?

From Proud Altar Boy to True Believer - The Life Story of Brian Borgman

Church & Family Life — Mon, 04 Jul 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Raised in a devout Catholic home, Brian was a proud, self-righteous altar boy who wore his religion on his sleeve. Whenever his parents or sister missed Mass, he would corral them into a room and perform communion. Yet, despite his showy legalism, he was consumed by guilt. Brian knew, full well, that he was a hypocritical sinner who was mean-spirited, lustful, and that he told jokes for the praise of men.

Then, quite unexpectedly, Brian’s mother came to Christ, and his father followed, once they began to read the Bible for themselves. Seeing Brian’s miserable struggle, his mother urged him to read God’s Word as well, starting with the New Testament. Once he did, Brian was convicted of his Phariseeism, realizing he must look to Christ, not the church, for forgiveness. Having his eyes opened, he was born again and soon felt the call to the ministry. Brian currently serves as the pastor of Grace Community Church in Minden, Nevada.

8th Generation Preacher Boy Gets Saved

Church & Family Life — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 05:00:00 +0000

How does a young man who grew up in the church and loved his parents end up depressed and suicidal? Here is the testimony of Jeffrey Johnson, an eighth-generation Baptist pastor from Arkansas, who was lost and found. It is a story of a young man in deep depression whom the Lord rescued from his darkness. He is now pastor of Grace Bible Church in Conway, Arkansas.

Prepare Your Kids to Get Up in the Morning

Church & Family Life — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 05:00:00 +0000

We are here to encourage you to prepare Kids for Morning and evening. There is a Christian way to go to bed at night and get up in the morning. This is the sufficiency of Scripture for the morning and the evening. The Lord gives careful guidance on how to start the day and end it. The Bible speaks of these two bookends of the day in terms of "morning and evening."

Let Your Wish Dream for the Church Die

Church & Family Life — Mon, 30 May 2022 05:00:00 +0000

In his book "Life Together," Dietrich Bonhoeffer points out that we must in the church keep our eyes on what Christ has called us to do in the church. He tells us that we usually come to the church with our wish dreams about the church. We come to the church looking for what we want, not what Christ wants. This is usually the source of our disappointment with our churches.

How to Help your Children Listen to Preaching

Church & Family Life — Mon, 02 May 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Children need help to hear sermons, they need coaching and assistance to train them to listen, and this is your job as a parent. I hope your children spend hundreds of hours in church listening to sermons. Do everything you can to make it a rich experience. Help them hear the Word of God through preaching and singing, and the fellowship. Jesus says, "Take heed how you hear" (Luke 8:18).

How do I Know if I’m Saved?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 16 May 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Today, our subject is the assurance of salvation, with Jeffrey Johnson from Conway, Arkansas. Every pastor and most believers have had to answer earnest questions from themselves or others struggling with doubt about their salvation. We will be discussing some of the points made in Chapter 18 of the Second London Baptist Confession of 1689 on assurance.

How to have a Christian Wedding

Church & Family Life — Mon, 23 May 2022 05:00:00 +0000

We believe that Scripture presents workable patterns applicable to having a Christian wedding. However, we don't think that Scripture provides a single formula for governing the process of having a wedding. This does not mean that the Bible is silent on the matter. What does the Bible say about weddings, and what can we learn from them as we plan weddings?

Give to Your Local Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 09 May 2022 05:00:00 +0000

A few years ago, a major researcher reported that 94% of those who claim to be Christians do not tithe. Of course, this means that only 6% of Christians tithe. What do Christians actually give? These researchers indicated that the congregation tithes or donates only 2%-3% of their income to the church. How should we think about giving to local churches?

Patterns for Family Life

Church & Family Life — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Their experiences shape the spiritual welfare of any new generation at home. We are grateful to see how the grace of God overcomes many terrible experiences. God is very kind. However, it matters what kinds of homes we grow up in. Children tend to do what they see, replicating communication patters and lifestyle patterns of their parents. Sometimes these are burdensome to the children. Our discussion today focuses on setting good habits before your children.

The Heart of a Good Marriage

Church & Family Life — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Marriage books will give you dozens of practical techniques. But is that the way the Bible teaches us? What are the most important matters? What are the fundamental indispensable things that make for a good marriage?

Readiness Tests for Marriage

Church & Family Life — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

This podcast is for the son or daughter wondering if they are ready for marriage and parents considering this for their children. Here are twelve questions you should ask yourself about marriage to test readiness.

Are You Taking Good Care of Your Body?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Does it matter if your body is fit? Many years ago, I heard someone say that everyone would be on it if exercise were a drug. Further, what is the role of exercise and fitness in a pastor's life? Last year, I met with some young men reading Al Martins' book on pastoral theology, "The Man of God." Vol 1, where he has two chapters on the subject of the pastor's emotional and physical well-being. How necessary is physical fitness for a pastor or anyone else? He tells us why it is essential for pastors to maintain a healthy body in these chapters.

The Sufficiency of Scripture at Home

Church & Family Life — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0000

What does it look like to pattern your family life after the patterns of scripture? Long ago most Christians ignored the word of God for their home life. We learned the ways of the gentiles and our families were out of order - and many did not even know that their family life was a contradiction to the Word of God.

Love for the Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Do you love the Church like Christ loves the church? Do you have the mind of Christ for His Church? Do you feel as He does? Do you treat the church as Christ is treating her?

How do you Handle Conflict in Your Marriage?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0000

God is kind to show us in His Word how to handle everything - including the conflict in our marriages. God’s ways are pleasant ways… as we will show you.

Is the Church the Center of Your Life?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 06:00:00 +0000

The pattern of the people in the early church was that they “steadfastly devoted themselves to the apostle's doctrine, to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayers. Is this your pattern? We want everyone to see the beauty and functionality of the church, and for those who are not, they would see what they are missing.

Facing Reality

Church & Family Life — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 06:00:00 +0000

How serious is it when I look at pornography? When do we consider impurity? What does the Bible say? Not only is pornography a false teacher that will make you a failure at love and teach you to be a taker, not a giver, but there are also even more staggering consequences. This is a warning.

The Greatest Defense against Pornography

Church & Family Life — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 06:00:00 +0000

What is the greatest defense against pornography? How can a person protect himself from the vulnerability? What do we need to be strong?

Killing the Dragon

Church & Family Life — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 06:00:00 +0000

How do you escape pornography or any sexual addiction? The Bible tells us that there are multiple ways of escape. What are they? How do you put them in place?

How to Restore the Person Caught in Pornography

Church & Family Life — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Two things: How should church leaders respond when a person is caught in pornography? And what about family shepherds - fathers, mothers, and single parents? How should they respond? What principles should be followed when someone has been caught in pornography? How should they be treated? What kinds of disciplines are most appropriate? What should be expected of that person?

The Holy Spirit in Your Life

Church & Family Life — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 06:00:00 +0000

What does the person and work of the Holy Spirit look like in the life of the believer, in the family, and the church? In this podcast, we discuss the filling of the Holy Spirit in church and family life.

Do you know God?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 06:00:00 +0000

What does it look like to know God? We invite you to our conference on Knowing God, where we will examine living illustrations for what it looks like in the lives of men and women of the Bible. Our speakers focus on various personalities in the Bible and how God's incommunicable and communicable attributes impacted them. "…but the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits." (Daniel 11:32)

Learn more about the Knowing God conference here:
https://churchandfamilylife.com/knowinggod

The Secret of a Happy Home

Church & Family Life — Mon, 31 Jan 2022 06:00:00 +0000

Everyone wants a happy home. But what does God say about it? In Psalm 128, we find practical wisdom for having happy families. God desires families.

Shepherding Through Harsh Lockdown

Church & Family Life — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 06:00:00 +0000

In this podcast, we interview two pastors in New Zealand who are preaching and praying and shepherding their flocks through the long nights of the New Zealand lockdowns, which are some of the harshest in the world.

How to Read the Bible Next Year

Church & Family Life — Mon, 27 Dec 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Join us as we show you how to read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation next year, using the "Journey Through the Bible" method of Church and Family Life. Visit read2022.com for more information.

Hug your Honey

Church & Family Life — Mon, 03 Jan 2022 16:48:08 +0000

My dad was famous for telling lots of other men and me, "Hug Your Honey." What did he mean? Why did he say it? And, why you should do the same as a husband or a wife.

Don't Mess with the Children

Church & Family Life — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 06:00:00 +0000

How important are children? How should we demonstrate their importance? Join us as we discuss Jesus' view of children and the implications for the 21st century.

How Home Life is a Little Piece of Heaven

Church & Family Life — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Is your family life a little piece of heaven? What is the aroma of your home? Well, sometimes, it is not exactly heavenly. But how can you inflect your family heavenward? In this podcast, we talk about the sacred design for a family. Of course, the devil is continually working to spoil it. But it does not have to be spoiled.

Orderliness in the Home

Church & Family Life — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Is your family life orderly or disorderly? Do you have a frenetic and variable schedule? Is your life characterized by the disorder of irregular sleeping habits and mealtimes? Are you able to keep a rhythm to life? Is your house messy? How important is it to have an orderly home, an orderly life, an orderly schedule? Scott and Jason work through various passages of scripture that speak to the matter of orderliness in your home life.

Covid by the Numbers- A Data Analysis look at the COVID Stats

Church & Family Life — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Drew Davis, a data analyst for a large pharmaceutical company, joins the podcast to discuss Covid by the numbers. When his company demanded that he get a Covid vaccine, he engaged in an aggressive pattern of research to understand the numbers as published by mainstream information outlets like the CDC and others from the mainstream medical community. In the process, he uncovered fascinating perspectives which he shares with us today.

You can access the PowerPoint slides shown during the podcast here.

Access the COVID19 Response Analysis Dashboard here.

Why Build This Dashboard? - This dashboard aims to highlight key data that is being underreported by our media and our leaders related to our COVID-19 response. This dashboard was not designed to help you make health decisions or make light of the impact that COVID-19 has had on many people. This dashboard does not highlight the many risks of COVID-19 as there are many sources for that information. Instead, this dashboard will shed light on the inconvenient truths our country is overlooking relating to the negative impacts of masking, shutdowns, and possibly the COVID-19 vaccines.

James Coates - Lessons Learned

Church & Family Life — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In February of 2021, pastor James Coates was arrested and jailed for conducting worship services in his church in Alberta, Canada. In this podcast, he explains what he learned from the experience.

Pro-Life is Not Enough

Church & Family Life — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Bradley Pierce and Phil George have focused significant energy on the effort to abolish abortion in Texas. In this podcast, they explain why they think abolition must be preferred above incremental measures.

The Desert Island Challenge - The Key to a True Reformation

Church & Family Life — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0000

When a pastor’s convictions change and grow, what happens in the church he serves? This is part of Carlton McLeod’s story, and the remarkable trajectory of reformation in his church in Chesapeake, VA. In this podcast, Carlton tells the story of his own changing understandings of the church and how he continues to lead his church through progressive sanctification by the Word of God.

Can you Lie to Save People’s Lives?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 05:00:00 +0000

When can a Christian lie? Can he lie to protect people as Rahab did? We are here to discuss this issue in the book When to Disobey, Case Studies in Tyranny, Insurrection, and Obedience to God, written by Pierre Viret. Today we are discussing Chapter 12: Truth, Tyrants, and our Responsibility Before God. This is a fascinating chapter about lying for a good cause, including Viret’s commentary on the ninth commandment, thou shalt not bear false witness.

Kris Baines Testimony

Church & Family Life — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Hear Kris Baines, Church and Family Life Regional Facilitator for Australia and New Zealand, tell the story of his conversion as a young person involved in the music industry. It is a story of God’s patience and kindness, rescuing him from the clutches of the enemy of his soul. Follow him from the UK to the US, to the UK, to the US, and to New Zealand to the present.

When Pastors Get Arrested

Church & Family Life — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +0000

For the first time, pastors in North America wonder how things will develop in view of the arrest and incarceration of Canadian pastors. How should we view it when we are jailed on false charges (or true charges)? How should we conduct ourselves? What should we expect? Join us as we speak with Paul Thompson from Eastside Baptist Church in Twin Falls, Idaho, who was arrested and jailed for 17 days under false accusations.

How Should We Worship God?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this podcast, Paul White joins us to discuss Chapter 22 in the Baptist Confession of 1689, "Of Religious Worship and the Sabbath Day." There are eight paragraphs in the chapter that explain the worship of God. Consider as a companion getting the booklet, "Counterfeit worship, Three Essays on the inventions of man in the Worship of God." In this booklet, we find the reformers' doctrine, which was embraced by the Puritans who penned the 1689 confession. In that book, we read John Knox, "All worshipping, honouring or service invented by the brain of man in the religion of God, without His own express commandment, is idolatry. The Mass is invented by the brain of man, without any commandment of God; therefore is idolatry."

Husbands, Lead Your Wives

Church & Family Life — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +0000

We are here today to encourage husbands to lead their families. The most common complaint wives make about their husbands is that they are not leading in the home. We also know that God gave husbands a hard job – they must lead their wives and children in very particular, highly defined ways. So, we hope this podcast will be an encouragement to them as they face the challenge and shoulder the responsibility.

Big News! - We’ve Changed Our Name

Church & Family Life — Mon, 28 Sep 2020 07:00:00 +0000

On this podcast, Jason Dohm, Carlton McLeod, and Kirk Smith will discuss the changing of the name of the NCFIC to Church and Family Life - Proclaiming the Sufficiency of Scripture.

Helping Children Listen to Preaching

Church & Family Life — Mon, 05 Oct 2020 07:00:00 +0000

This week we will be probing Joel Beeke on how parents can assist their children to get the most out of the preaching they hear.

Medical Tyranny Pt 1 - Violating Jurisdictional Boundaries

Church & Family Life — Mon, 12 Oct 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Our discussion with Attorney, Don Hart and Medical Doctor, Dr. Tom Kendall will focus on the jurisdictional matters of family life in medical decisions. Over the past few decades, we have seen increasing involvement in the government in health care. How should Christians think and respond to these trends? How should they think about jurisdictional overreach? What are Biblical jurisdictional boundaries? How are they violated?

Medical Tyranny Pt 2 - Dangerous Usurpations

Church & Family Life — Mon, 19 Oct 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Our discussion with Attorney, Don Hart and Medical Doctor, Dr. Tom Kendall, will examine various particular jurisdictional usurpations in family health care. What are the danger zones upon us now in our culture? What can we do about particular threats regarding vaccine mandates, government control over childbirth, and education?

Paul Washer on Preaching to Children and Children Listening

Church & Family Life — Mon, 26 Oct 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Because of the pivotal nature of preaching in the church and the impact on the rising generation we have two back to back broadcasts on the role of preaching to families in the local church setting. In this session, Paul Washer instructs both parents and children on how to best get the most out of preaching. In the next episode of the Church and Family Life Podcast, we will be talking to Dr. Steven Lawson about the same subject.

Preaching to Children and Children Listening

Church & Family Life — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Because of the pivotal nature of preaching in the church and the impact on the rising generation we have two back to back broadcasts on the role of preaching to families in the local church setting. Last week we interviewed Paul Washer. In this session, Dr. Steven Lawson instructs both parents and children on how to best get the most out of preaching.

Preparing Children to Face the Climate Revolutionaries

Church & Family Life — Mon, 09 Nov 2020 08:00:00 +0000

This session will focus on bringing up children in the training and admonition of the Lord in terms of the Christian view of nature and man. We will examine what Christian parents need to teach their children in order to prepare them to face a world of climate revolutionaries. What issues should parents focus on? What scripture do they need to teach? What terminology should parents expose their children to and how it relates to biblical language on the issues. What scientific facts are important to the discussion.

Families that Prioritize the Local Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 08:00:00 +0000

In this interview, we discuss the impact of the local church on family life. Drawing from decades of watching families, Scott, Jason, and Kevin have specific advice for families regarding their local church involvement.

What Your Children Need to Know about the Social Justice Movement

Church & Family Life — Mon, 23 Nov 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Join us as we talk to Josh Buice about what parents need to teach their children regarding the growing woke culture that is upon us. Over the past decade secular philosophies of "social justice” have infiltrated our churches. How did this happen? Where did it come from? What does it look like in churches? What kind of terminology should we look out for? Who is promoting it? What critical matters should parents teach their children about this kind of thinking?

How Your Family Can Love the Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 30 Nov 2020 08:00:00 +0000

How A Confessional understanding of the Church - In this interview, we will examine portions of the 1689 London Baptist Confession to glean wisdom for family life in the local church.

Marxist Uprising

Church & Family Life — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Curtis Bowers has spent the past two decades warning Americans about the rising Marxist revolution. On this broadcast, Curtis will give us an update and help us understand what we ought to teach our children. Like never before, Marxist revolutionaries have taken to the streets. They took over Hollywood and the classrooms many years ago. Now their ideas are now mainstreamed, livestreamed on mainstreet. Many in the younger generation have absorbed their philosophies. How do we resist this movement? How do we raise a generation which can uphold biblical truth?

The Family at Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 14 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

On this broadcast, we discuss the books we have written on the family at church. We will encourage families to understand the importance of the local church, and how each of our books can assist families to engage local church life to the fullest.

Abortion Resistance Movement

Church & Family Life — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0000

Bradley Pierce and Phil George have been part of the abortion resistance movement in their state of Texas. They have been educating and litigating for the sake of breaking the cycle of murder. On this broadcast, they will give us a view of the state of the battle as well as guide us on how to engage this battle in our own states.

What Should Prayer in the Family and the Church Look Like?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:00:00 +0000

Prayer and prayer meetings in the local church. We will discuss the pivotal role of corporate prayer meetings in the local church. We will also discuss the importance of children being exposed to corporate prayer meetings and what their participation should look like.

This Story is Not Over

Church & Family Life — Mon, 04 Jan 2021 07:00:00 +0000

John Snyder tells his life story. He grew up as a rebellious self-centered teenager… whose shame finally drove him to his knees. His story brings a message of hope for parents of children who are not walking with the Lord, identifying the good things his parents did as he was going through his seasons of rebellion.

Rules for Radicals

Church & Family Life — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Right before our eyes, the atheistic revolutionaries are making significant headway. How are they doing it? What are their techniques? Our guest, Curtis Bowers has spent the last few decades studying the answers to these questions. On this broadcast Curtis Bowers, producer of, “Agenda: Grinding America Down and AGENDA 2: Masters of Deceit will explain what techniques the left is implementing in order to deconstruct society and remake it after their image.

A History of Grace

Church & Family Life — Mon, 18 Jan 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The life story of Steve and Sandra Hopkins is a story of grace. Hear the contours of God’s grace through the years in the Hopkins family. Grace is powerful enough to lift the most broken. God is kind to those who have been entrapped and He rescues them.

What to Tell Your Kids about Homeschooling

Church & Family Life — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Homeschooling has finally become a normal fixture of American life. But does the younger generation understand how and why it happened? Do they understand the Biblical basis for such a thing? Join Jason Dohm and me as we talk about this important issue. What Biblical truth do we need to communicate to the younger generation about homeschooling?

A Skinhead Gave Me a Bible

Church & Family Life — Mon, 01 Feb 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The story of Clarence Simmon’s life makes it clear that Jesus came to seek and save the lost. Clarence shares how one mercy after another kept coming to a boy and then finally a man in jail. Oddly, during his first moments in jail, a skinhead gave him a Bible. But this was just one event that connected many events along the way of his life where it was plain that the Lord was pursuing him. Then, he became a free man in prison. Clarence is now the father of eight children, a pastor at Mount Zion Baptist Church, and works at Chapel Library, distributing Christian literature all over the world.

What’s Up With Family Integrated Churches

Church & Family Life — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Over the past 20 years, there has been a significant movement against the church's radical age segregation. Churches worldwide have changed how they function with children's church, youth groups, and children welcomed in the main Sunday morning services. In this broadcast, we are discussing the ins and outs of the challenge of age-integrated churches.

A Persecuted Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 06:00:00 +0000

This broadcast is dedicated to spreading the Gospel in Hostile Regions. Our guest, Paul Carrington, is a missionary in a land hostile to Christianity. How should we think of ministry in places like this? What is the history of the persecution of the church where Paul is ministering?

Singing with My Mom in Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 06:00:00 +0000

This is a story of a boy against all odds. Carlton tells the story of his life and how the Lord used simple things along the way to open his heart to the Lord. It is remarkable to see the simple influence of a mother and her simple faith and the simple things that happen in churches.

Works Without Faith are Dead - The Testimony of Anthony Mathenia

Church & Family Life — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000

This is a story of a childhood profession, works of righteousness, and the merciful intrusions of the grace of God. Anthony describes his life as a boy who never missed church, was faithful in scripture memory, and a state champion bible drill winner. He had works but no faith. Then God cornered him through preaching. Everything changed.

Dealing with COVID Divisions

Church & Family Life — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Christians are bound to disagree about debatable matters. What matters, however, is not That they disagree, but HOW they treat one another in working through their disagreements. In this podcast, Jason and Scott dialog with Malamuolo Chindongo, in Blantyre Malawi to discuss this global problem. Col 3:12-18 is a helpful sanity check.

Buddy, You Just Been Born Again

Church & Family Life — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Paul Washer tells the story of his life and the time of his conversion. This is a story of many mercies of God converging upon a soul until finally, everything changed - in an instant. You never know how or when the Lord will capture a sinner. But when it happened to Paul, it was unexpected, he knew it and so did everyone else.

Help Kids Deal with Scary News Stories

Church & Family Life — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Kevin Swanson is a man about the news… he reports the news daily. The news has been pretty disturbing over the past year so. How should parents talk about the news to their children? How can parents make the most of whats happening in the world to prepare them for living in the world. What mistakes can they make?

The State of the Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000

The integrity of church practices has been challenged as a result of the Covid 19 lockdowns and restrictions. We have Kyle Reeder, with us, pastor of Solid Rock Baptist Church in Benton, Ky to discuss the health of the church. How does a church remain faithful in times like these? What is the state of the church as a result?

Giving Thanks for Government Intrusion

Church & Family Life — Mon, 05 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Jason Dohm and Pooyan Mershahi discuss the blessings of the past year. They explain, giving thanks to the Lord for difficulties that caused many blessings to fall on the churches.

Love is Not All You Need

Church & Family Life — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Sam Waldron joins us to discuss one of the critical maladies afflicting the church today. It is a matter that is addressed in the Baptist Confession of 1689 regarding the nature of the universal church verses and the local church. A misunderstanding of these two doctrines has important implications.

What Will You Do About Your Sin?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Hear the story of the conversion of an argumentative Zoroastrianism. Pooyan Mershahi grew up as a faithful law-abiding, proud argumentative Zoroastrianism. What was it that humbled him and brought Him to follow Jesus Christ?

What kind of Government is the Most Biblical?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this podcast, Jason Dohm, Gavin Beers, and I discuss the first chapter of Pierre Viret’s “When to Disobey, Case Studies in Tyranny, Insurrection, and Obedience to God. In this chapter, Viret explains three forms of government, analyzing the positives and negatives of each and establishes a principle upon which all governments should be judged. We will ship the book to you for a donation of any amount. Click here to get your book. Also, don’t forget to get the study guide for this book. Click here. Get "When to Disobey" for a donation of any amount here. Get the companion Study Guide for just $4.95 here.

Power of the Gospel in a Broken Family

Church & Family Life — Mon, 03 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Hear Josh Buice tell his life story. It is a story of a broken family and the power of the Gospel that changes everything.

Warning about Insurrection and Rebellion

Church & Family Life — Mon, 10 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

What are the principles and commands of God that guide our thoughts about insurrection against tyrannical governments? Our discussion surrounds Pierre Viret's counsel to churches tempted to rise up in the face of harsh tyrants.

Confronting Prosperity Gospel Preachers

Church & Family Life — Mon, 17 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Steve Hopkins, the pastor of Burnet Bible Church, has had a long history of confronting prosperity gospel personalities. In this podcast, we identify some of the problems with the prosperity gospel in the context of Steves's personal encounters.

When the Government Shuts Down your Church

Church & Family Life — Mon, 24 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

What should do when the government shuts off access to their churches? What should they do if their properties are confiscated? Our discussion centers around Pierre Viret's advice to pastors who have found themselves in this predicament.

From Angry Boy to Preacher of Righteousness – The Life Story of Tom Ascol

Church & Family Life — Mon, 31 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Tom’s family background was plagued by heartache. Tom’s dad, as a young boy, witnessed his father being shot dead while the two sat together on a wagon. The state then awarded Tom’s father and his two siblings to become indentured servants — slaves, in effect — who were chained in a farmer’s field to pick various crops. The oldest of three, Tom’s dad grew up to be a womanizer who drank heavily, while also teaching Sunday School.

Tom grew up embarrassed by his own father. Embittered that his dad served as deacon in their church, while living a life of moral failure, he harbored an angry distrust for pastors. Despite these struggles, Tom confessed Christ at age 8, due in part to the earnest prayers of his godly mother. Then, at age 16, Tom felt called to the ministry. Still struggling with a dislike for pastors, God slowly softened his heart and, in time, propelled him to not only become pastor of Grace Baptist Church in Cape Coral, Florida, but to launch Founders Ministries.

The Centrality of Local Church Life

Church & Family Life — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this podcast, we discuss the importance of local church life for families.

Christians the Best Subjects

Church & Family Life — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000

What does it mean that Christians are the best citizens? Our discussion centers around Pierre Viret's explanation of why Christians are and must be the best subjects under civil governments.

Kevin Swanson’s Life Story

Church & Family Life — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Kevin Swanson of Generations and pastor at Reformation Church in Elizabeth Colorado describes his upbringing and crisis of faith. Kevin had a very unusual childhood and his parents did their best to prepare him for holiness.

When Obedience to the State is a Cloak for Compromise

Church & Family Life — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000

How can you tell if your obedience to the government is really a cloak for disobedience to God? Our discussion centers around Pierre Viret's analysis of the questions we ought to ask and the conclusions we ought to consider. Our discussion focuses on Chapter 8 of "When to Disobey."

Honoring Authority Over Us

Church & Family Life — Mon, 05 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In our continuing discussion of, the book, "When to Disobey,” we are joined by Toby Logston a pastor of one of the churches in our network in Lynwood Washington. We are discussing chapter 5, “Honoring Authority Over Us.” Viret makes a very strong case for honoring authorities. He bases this on the fifth commandment, telling us that the application is much broader than simply father and mother. We live in a time when very few people were brought up to honor their fathers and mothers, and therefore they don’t honor anyone.

When Magistrates Misbehave

Church & Family Life — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000

How should the church respond when magistrates misbehave? Gavin Beers joins us to discuss Chapter 6 of, “When to Disobey,” Viret makes his case that we ought to understand the office of the magistrate, acknowledge the problems they bring, and how to navigate. Viret is defining and defending the role of civil magistrates. He makes an appeal for godly responses to the civil magistrate. I appreciate how Viret explains the problems that Christians will have with magistrates. Viret explains in careful detail what kinds of sins the people of God will have to endure at their hands.

Should We Overthrow The Government?

Church & Family Life — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Join us with Phil Kayser to discuss chapter 9 of Pierre Viret, “When to Disobey.” Titled, “Jurisdictions and callings are ordained by God. Viret addresses the various callings of individuals, pastors, and magistrates. What should individuals do? In this chapter, Viret corrects some of the wrong thinking that he is encountering.

How the Meek will Vanquish Wolves

Church & Family Life — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Join us with Brian Borgman to discuss chapter 10 in “When to Disobey,” under the chapter title, “How the Sheep will Vanquish Wolves.” Viret tells us things that are contrary to human wisdom. He unveils a lie we often embrace when dealing with corrupt civil governments.

Using the Civil Magistrate for Good

Church & Family Life — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In Chapter 11 of “When to Disobey,” Pierre Viret shows how a Christian appeals to the magistrate, how he seeks protection while at the same time serving God. He frames the discussion in this way; “If you are in a country in which someone does you an injury, you can have recourse to the magistrate of the place if the matter is worthy of it and if it requires it, and if you can do this by honest means without dishonoring God and without violating the love you owe to your neighbor.”

Guarding Kids Against Worldly Ideologies

Church & Family Life — Mon, 27 Sep 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Join us as we discuss the matter of guarding kids against worldly ideologies and lifestyles. In today’s episode, we cover a range of subjects that parents need to pay attention to in the growing of the affections of their children, what they expose them to, how they expose them to different cultural influences, and the end goal of it all.

In Praise of Plodders

Church & Family Life — Mon, 20 Sep 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Missionary William Carey called himself a “plodder”. In the twentieth century, Warren Weirsbe wrote a book called In Praise of Plodders. We are here to talk about the virtue in plodding through life (in other words, replacing a desire for heroism by doing what you are supposed to do as part of a rhythm of life, without “freneticism”). The core question: Are you frenetically productive or calmly productive? Join me, Jason Dohm, and Kris Bains as we discuss this important matter.

Your Family as A Mighty Force in the World

Church & Family Life — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 05:00:00 +0000

What is the significance of family life? How is family life diminished in the modern world? What is the true impact of a family on the world? Join Scott Brown, Jason Dohm, and Jared Longshore as we explain the power of a family – your family – in the world.

True Obedience to Magistrates: Examples from Scripture

Church & Family Life — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In our discussion of Chapter 13 of When to Disobey, we encounter four heroes of the faith who are worth emulating. The Bible is full of heroes who would not obey government mandates – perhaps surprisingly, Scripture does not just tolerate these figures, it praises them. First, we encounter the Hebrew midwives in Exodus 1. Second, we see the Egyptian taskmasters who were also Israelites who obeyed God by not abusing their workers. Our third example is Rahab in Joshua 2 and 6. Our last stop is I Samuel, examining Jonathan before his father, King Saul.

Why God Sends Tyrants to His People

Church & Family Life — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 05:00:00 +0000

When persecution comes, Viret wants us to examine ourselves. In chapter 14 of When to Disobey, He urges us to examine how we have loved one another (or not loved one another) and how we may have sinned against one another. The reality is that God sends trouble to those who have departed from His ways. When we are being treated poorly, we ought to think about how we have treated our neighbors and our brethren before pointing fingers at the world.

A Christian’s Duty Under Ungodly Rulers

Church & Family Life — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this final chapter of When to Disobey Viret urges Christians to be patient under tyrannical regimes. Viret cites several examples we can look to in Scripture in Jeremiah, Esther, and Mordecai. Viret also uses Jeremiah 29 to demonstrate that Christians ought not to respond to tyranny in sullenness, pride, and rebellion, but rather in productivity and fruit-bearing. When difficult times come, it is the easy thing to sit in a corner and complain, to allow conversations with friends to be dominated by objections and fretfulness, to take up your pen (or phone) and rail against the oppressors. Viret urges all of us to rise up, take dominion, and be a blessing.

The Mark of the Beast

Church & Family Life — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0000

What is the mark of the beast? The truth is that no one knows exactly what this will look like, or if it is even a physical mark (remember, Revelation largely uses figurative language). In today’s discussion, we start off talking through what people have believed was the mark of the beast. Then we define that mark as the mark of the world. We are identified by what we believe and do, where we allow our affections to run. If the mark of the beast is the mark of the world, then how it appears in our lives is going to be running with, pleasing, and falling into the ways of the world. For the final word, we turn to a sermon preached a few years ago by Richard Owen Roberts: Twelve Marks of Spiritual Death, from Ephesians 2:1-3.

Campus Ministry

Church & Family Life — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Co-hosts Jason and Scott have witnessed firsthand the wonderful college campus ministries that Antioch Baptist Church and pastor Malamulo Chindongo have in Blantyre, Malawi. For over a decade, Mala has conducted purposeful, consistent student ministries, and we have much to learn from him. In this conversation, Mala tells us how they do it, giving us a look under the hood of this ministry.