Exhorter Podcast

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In this episode, we sit down with Kris Emerson to discuss how Christians can stay focused on Christ over extremes of Christian leanings. We explore why chasing spiritual “rightness” outside of Jesus can lead to fear, division, and extremes — whether on the left, the right, traditional, or progressive. If you've wrestled with church culture, legalism, credibility, or fear-based decision-making, we hope this conver...

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What if the path to stronger churches begins long before anyone is asked to serve? We dig into the surprising power of aspiration—how aiming toward the biblical qualities of an elder can shape every believer’s character, whether the title ever comes or not. Is aspiring to be an elder only for a few? We argue it’s a vision for everyone.

"If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task" (1 ...

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Are we planting thorns in our homes? What if the biggest threats to your child’s faith look like good opportunities on the calendar? In this episode, we sit down with Phil Robertson to explore how Jesus’ warning about the “thorns” (Matthew 13:7) still applies today—sports, school, screens, and busy schedules that quietly choke out spiritual growth.

Together, we unpack how parents can cultivate hearts that love God abov...

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Whether you're battling Monday blues, feeling stuck in a job you dislike, or struggling to find balance between work and home, this episode offers biblical wisdom to renew your perspective. Work isn't just about earning a paycheck – it's about glorifying God in everything we do, finding contentment in our current season, and remembering that providing for our families means more than just financial supp...

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What happens after our final breath? In this episode, we dive into what Scripture teaches about death and the judgment that follows. The Bible makes it clear that our consciousness continues after death—but is this the final judgment, a temporary waiting place, or does that distinction even matter?

Through the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, we explore what Jesus reveals about the reality of the afterlife. While t...

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When a tech CEO was caught on a stadium Kiss Cam with someone who wasn’t his wife, the internet turned it into a meme fest. Behind the laughs is a sobering reminder: in a hyperconnected world, double lives don’t stay hidden. This episode explores integrity, hidden sin, and the toll of compartmentalized living. We reflect on Numbers 32:23—“be sure your sin will find you out”—and how this truth surfaces in our daily cho...

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Are emotions misleading distractions or God-given guides? This question sits at the heart of many spiritual struggles as believers try to navigate between what they feel and what they know to be true.

Drawing from biblical examples and personal experiences, our conversation explores the often-misunderstood relationship between emotions and principles in the Christian life. Rather than positioning these as opp...

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While headlines and studies point to a steady decline in church attendance across the country, what does that mean for us, especially in the Churches of Christ? In this episode, we take a thoughtful look at the data, listen to what some are saying about the future of the church, and consider how we should respond—not with panic, but with purpose. We’ll talk about what it means to live out the mission of Christ, how co...

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What boundaries protect and sanctify your marriage? In this episode, we talk about the so-called “Pence Rule,” opposite-sex friendships, and why 1 Thessalonians 4 calls us to intentional holiness. It's not about fear—it’s about wisdom, trust, and honoring your spouse before God.

Should married people have close friendships with the opposite sex? We unpack the thinking behind avoiding one-on-one time with the oppos...

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Nobody likes feeling left out—but it’s part of life. Feeling left out strikes at our core need to belong, affecting us deeply, whether it's an event we weren't invited to or a subtle sense that others are more connected than we are. This week, we’ll share why it hits so hard, what the Bible says about it, and how to create a culture of belonging wherever you are. If you've ever felt excluded (or acciden...

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How do we navigate disagreement with church leadership while maintaining respect and unity? This thought-provoking episode tackles the delicate balance of honoring elders while addressing legitimate concerns.

We begin by examining our fundamental relationship with elders. Rather than waiting for them to reach out, we explore how members can take initiative in building meaningful connections through prayer, gr...

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We all carry secrets—ours and other people’s. But should we? Is it ever right to share them? This episode dives into what Scripture says about managing secrets with integrity.

In this episode, we unpack biblical stories like Samuel keeping his mission quiet, Esther hiding her identity, and Samson… oversharing. You'll also hear why making blanket promises of confidentiality isn’t always wise and how to handle sensi...

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A casual game night conversation led us down an unexpected theological rabbit hole, wrestling with one of faith's most profound questions: Why would a loving God create us, knowing we would sin? This question touches the very core of how we understand God's character and our purpose in His divine plan. Whether you're wrestling with tough questions or seeking deeper understanding, this episode offers a p...

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How do you choose a church when every congregation claims to follow Christ yet teaches different things? Joshua Creel from the University Church of Christ in Tampa joins us to tackle this crucial question through the lens of Galatians.

The conversation revolves around three essential criteria for selecting a church: determining whether they genuinely seek to please Christ rather than people, verifying their t...

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When someone mocks Christianity—but not your specific beliefs—should you be offended? In this listener-submitted episode, we explore the 2024 Olympic opening ceremony’s depiction of The Last Supper, the line between irreverence and blasphemy, and examples from music, movies, and everyday speech. We also discuss when and why Christians should take offense, how to respond with grace and wisdom, and how to ensure our own...

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Have you ever wondered how you can juggle a bustling career, family responsibilities, and personal time without feeling overwhelmed? This episode explores the Pareto Principle, emphasizing that 80% of results come from 20% of efforts. We discuss goal-setting strategies based on this principle, the importance of prioritizing meaningful relationships, and practical tips for managing time effectively. 

With wisdom drawn f...

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Have you ever caught yourself smirking when someone who sped past you on the highway gets pulled over? We've all felt that intriguing twinge of satisfaction at another's misfortune, and in this episode of the Exhorter podcast, we explore the curious emotion of schadenfreude. Through personal anecdotes and pop culture nods like Homer Simpson's envy-fueled glee, we examine how this complex feeling manifes...

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Is sarcasm a clever tool or a dangerous trap? In this episode, we explore how sarcasm shows up in the Bible, from Elijah’s sharp mockery of Baal’s prophets to Job’s biting responses to his friends. While sarcasm can highlight absurdity and deliver truth with wit, it can also harm relationships when used carelessly. We’ll share biblical examples, personal stories, and insights into how sarcasm can enhance communication...