Being the Church: Guest Pastor Dee Jay Shoulders | Closer to Jesus Podcast S2 Ep10 (2025)

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 In this episode of the Closer to Jesus podcast, I sit down with Pastor Dee Jay Shoulders of Nashville, Tennessee, to talk about what it truly means to be the church—not just attend one. 

We dive into the challenges of pastoring in a growing urban city, the power of community, and how the ridiculous love of Jesus carries us through even the darkest trials.

In this episode, we discuss:
-The role of the church in today’s world and why Jesus intended for us to live in community.
-The difference between simply going to church and having a true relationship with Jesus.
-How the church can better share the power and baptism of the Holy Ghost.
Pastor Dee Jay’s personal journey through trials, including a possible cancer diagnosis, Type 2 diabetes, and the loss of a dear friend.
-How to hold onto faith and speak God’s Word of hope even in the face of suffering.

Key Scriptures Mentioned:
 📖 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 – "The Father of mercies and the God of all comfort… comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble."
 📖 Galatians 6:16-17 – "From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus."

No matter what you're facing, Jesus’ love is greater, His comfort is real, and His church is meant to be a refuge. Join us for this powerful conversation about faith, resilience, and the incredible grace of God.

🙏 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more faith-filled encouragement from the Closer to Jesus podcast!

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