What does it mean to walk steadily in your faith day after day? Join Jake and Maverick for Episode 53 of the GBC Empower podcast, where we start with a burst of humor, celebrating the legendary Hall of Fame pitcher Don Drysdale and the elusive number 53 in sports. As we gear up for our summer break, we can't wait to return on August 18th with an episode themed around Jake's high school football number, 54. But before we sign off, we dive into the profound message of Eugene Peterson's "A Long Obedience in the Same Direction," shedding light on the significance of the Psalms of Ascent for Jewish pilgrims and what true discipleship really entails.

Exploring Peterson's insights, we reflect on our personal misconceptions about discipleship. It's not about mastering vast amounts of biblical knowledge; it's about daily, intentional faith-based decisions and a steady, unwavering walk with Christ. We discuss the challenges of maintaining a long-term interest in the gospel amidst a fast-paced world, emphasizing the importance of living out our mission in everyday contexts like work and family life. True discipleship, as we discover, often stands in stark contrast to the fleeting emotional highs that come with initial conversion.

Lastly, we underscore the power of daily faithfulness through real-life examples like John Johnson, a quiet yet consistently faithful church member, and Oak Street Baptist Church, known for its steadfast commitment to biblical teaching and missions. Their stories show how enduring faithfulness can significantly impact individuals and communities. We wrap up this episode by inviting you to share your own Christian testimonies, aiming to create a platform where faith stories can resonate and inspire. Wishing everyone a wonderful and safe summer break, we humorously hope that after the Fourth of July, you're all still in one piece!

Join us as we discuss the heart of our discussion: the power of family discipleship within our church community. We’re thrilled to share the incredible success of the Strand Discipleship program, a 10-week journey that has touched the lives of over 100 people, spanning generations from adults to college students. You'll hear touching stories of spiritual growth, community bonding, and the unique role of youth in these programs, including their impactful contributions to initiatives like Falls Creek's decision team.

Lastly, we dive into the profound impact of families being on a mission together, emphasizing the eternal inheritance of true discipleship over worldly success. Addressing misconceptions about Christianity, we remind you that faithfulness, not perfection, is the key. Through encouraging anecdotes and testimonies, we highlight how regular families are partnering with the church to cultivate a lifestyle of discipleship. We wrap up with reflections on the power of encouragement for youth and the excitement that comes with planning long-term discipleship initiatives. Tune in for an episode filled with humor, heart, and spiritual insights!

We dive deep into the world of Christian denominations, unpacking the rich tapestry of beliefs within the faith. We cover everything from the historical significance of the Protestant movement to the distinct doctrines of Catholicism, Presbyterianism, Methodism, Baptist, and Pentecostalism. Additionally, we explore the recent Southern Baptist Convention in Indianapolis, emphasizing the importance of doctrine and biblical teaching when choosing a church. Hear our personal stories and insights on what makes a church healthy and Christ-centered. Whether you're a long-time listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode is packed with wisdom and heartfelt moments you won't want to miss.

We dive into the theme of embracing change, both within the church and in our personal lives. Hear personal stories that highlight the sometimes challenging but always rewarding process of trusting God through life's transitions—from growing to love working with VBS to navigating the complexities of parenting. Unity and community within the church are also key points of discussion. Learn why maintaining a small-church mindset is crucial for deep connections, even as we expand. Whether you're part of our congregation or just looking for spiritual inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom on navigating life's transitions while staying rooted in faith and community.

Let's talk about summer camps and Jesus!

Ever thought about the unsung heroes of youth camps? We shine a spotlight on the indispensable role of volunteers who make these transformative experiences possible. Through personal stories, we discuss how disconnecting from daily distractions, including smartphones, allows teenagers to flourish spiritually and socially. A must-watch recommendation? The Netflix movie "A Week Away" offers a lighthearted depiction of camp life, capturing the essence of what makes these experiences so special.

Finally, tune in to hear about the unique experiences at camps like Piney Woods and Falls Creek. From peer-led evangelism to quirky traditions like the "Devil's Bathtub" and the gum tree, we highlight the perfect blend of fun and faith that defines these camps. With over 50 children and nearly 90 students attending this year, we emphasize the importance of safety and the power of prayer for a successful camp season. Thank you for supporting and praying for these young lives as they embark on an unforgettable journey of laughter, growth, and spiritual discovery.

Ever wonder how the Psalm of Ascent could enhance your spiritual journey? Jake and Maverick explore in a heartfelt discussion that weaves together NASCAR admiration, NFL nostalgia, and the profound lessons of biblical pilgrimage. We journey through Psalm 120-134, uncovering their deep communal ties and how they guide us as modern pilgrims toward our own Zion. It's a conversation that transcends time, bringing the wisdom of the past into our daily lives with warmth and relevance.

The episode doesn't stop at ancient wisdom; we also tackle the vital role of generational ministry in today's church. From the laughter-filled halls of Vacation Bible School to the nurturing of young leaders, we share stories and insights into how these experiences unite families, engage communities, and strengthen the fabric of our congregations. We're excited to share how everyone, from the youngest to the eldest, plays a part in our shared ministry, illustrating the beauty of interconnectedness with the vine and branches analogy. Join us for an inspiring and uplifting dialogue that promises growth, depth, and a vibrant future for all who participate in the body of Christ.

We are binding the global Christian community in a tapestry of unity, reflecting on the scriptural teachings of inclusivity that span from Israel to every corner of the earth. Absorb the essence of Acts 10, where Peter's revelation underscores that Christianity's embrace extends beyond Jewish heritage to encompass all nations. We’ll dissect how the Bible directs us to support Israel, not through political lenses, but through the lens of God’s enduring promises. Focusing on Christ, we remind you to anchor your faith in scriptural solace, steering through life's unpredictability with steadfast hope and assurance. Join us for this crucial conversation, where we invite you to deepen your understanding and solidarity with believers across the globe.

https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/reasons-christians-should-be-concerned-about-israel.html

https://jdgreear.com/podcasts/should-christians-support-israel/

https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/should-we-side-with-israel-or-palestine

Join us on our Mother's Day podcast and celebrate with Brett, a mom who knows a thing or two about the delicate interplay of ministry and motherhood. Her candid stories of parenting Harper and Bear while leading a children's ministry will tug at your heartstrings and might redefine your idea of a superhero—a cape not required.

Motherhood and ministry: two realms that demand endless reservoirs of love and dedication. This episode peels back the curtain on the triumphs and trials faced by moms at the heart of church communities. Our special guest, Brett, gives us an insider's look at how her children grapple with her dual role and how her family life intertwines with her calling. We wrap up with an uplifting reminder of Christ's unconditional love, the kind that every mother emulates uniquely. Whether you've got kids, you're leading a flock, or you have a mother to cherish, this episode is a heartfelt nod to the mothers in our lives and the boundless love that defines them.