This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast tackles some crucial questions about discipleship and following Jesus in today's world. What does it really mean to be a disciple of Christ? How do we reconcile Jesus' radical teachings, like loving our enemies and not storing up treasures on earth, with the realities of modern life? The conversation explores the tension between obedience to Jesus' commands and the challenges of living them out in a world that often seems at odds with Christian values. The post What Does Matthew Teach Us About Discipleship? with Travis Bookout appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams and Marcus Stenson tackle the crucial topic of discipleship and how to create a disciple-making church culture. They address common misconceptions about discipleship, explore why many churches struggle to prioritize disciple-making, and discuss how individuals can embrace their role as disciples even in challenging environments. This conversation is particularly valuable for those feeling frustrated with church stagnation or wondering how to move beyond mere church attendance to truly following Jesus. The post How to Create a Disciple-Making Culture with Marcus Stenson appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, leaving little time or energy to prepare our hearts and minds for the Sunday worship assembly. We often show up to church gatherings feeling distracted, exhausted, or preoccupied with the cares of the world. This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast tackles these challenges head-on, exploring practical ways to cultivate a mindset that is truly focused on worshiping God and encouraging our fellow believers. The post How to Prepare Yourself for Worship with Daniel Dalp appeared first on Radically Christian.

The apostle Paul wrote, "We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 6:12). However, many Christians today struggle with truly understanding or appreciating the reality of spiritual warfare. We often dismiss or gloss over biblical references to demonic forces, the unseen realm, and spiritual battles. Why is having an awareness of these things important? How should we think about the forces of evil and darkness described in the New Testament? The post Do Not Wrestle Against Flesh and Blood with Kerry Williams appeared first on Radically Christian.

"The gospel of sin management" is a phrase that was coined by Dallas Willard. For Joseph Lewis, that phrase perfectly encapsulates the way many people make being a Christian primarily about avoiding sin and following a set of rules. In this thought-provoking episode, Wes McAdams and Joseph Lewis expose the problems with reducing Christianity to mere moralism. They discuss how an obsessive focus on not sinning can paradoxically make us more likely to sin, as well as undermine the true meaning of the gospel. The post The Gospel of Sin Management with Joseph Lewis appeared first on Radically Christian.

Is there a dichotomy between the wrathful God of the Old Testament and the merciful God of the New Testament? In this episode, Wes McAdams and Marco Arroyo explore how our understanding of God's nature can profoundly shape our own identities and relationships. The conversation also tackles the crucial issue of how to reconcile God's love and grace with his judgment and wrath against sin. The post The God of the Old Testament with Marco Arroyo appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes and his guest, Jacob Rutledge, tackle the complex and often contentious topic of sin. They delve into the fundamental questions that many Christians grapple with: What truly constitutes sin? How do we define it in a way that aligns with biblical teachings? Is sin merely a matter of missing the mark, or does it go deeper, reflecting a rebellion against God's authority? These questions are not merely academic exercises; they have profound implications for how we understand our relationship with God and our pursuit of holiness. The post What Is a Sin and What Isn’t A Sin? with Jacob Rutledge appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to compartmentalize our lives into separate spheres – work, church, family, and so on. However, this mindset can lead to a disconnect between our faith and our daily lives, especially in the workplace. Many Christians struggle with the question of how to live out their faith in a so-called "secular" environment. They wonder if their work has any spiritual significance or if it's simply a means to an end. This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast addresses these concerns and offers a fresh perspective on the role of work in the life of a believer. The post Every Christian is a Minister appeared first on Radically Christian.

Do you struggle to understand the book of Revelation? This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast addresses the common problems and misconceptions that people have when reading the book of Revelation. Many find it to be a confusing and scary book of the Bible. However, today's guest, Garrett Best, explains that Revelation doesn't have to be scary and that it is actually a highly relevant and encouraging book for Christians today. The post Reading and Understanding the Book of Revelation with Garrett Best appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is the mission of the church? This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast tackles that crucial question. The discussion explores the common tendency for Christians to focus solely on replicating New Testament patterns of church life, while neglecting the larger theological framework of God's mission. Wes McAdams and Steve Cloer delve into the biblical concept of God as a "missionary God" who sends his people to partner in redeeming a broken world, and how this should reshape the church's identity and approach to ministry. The post God’s Mission for the Church with Steve Cloer appeared first on Radically Christian.

"Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17, NKJV). In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams and Willie B. Williams delve into the profound concept of faith and its pivotal role in the Christian life. They address the common struggles many believers face, such as discouragement, cynicism, and a defeatist attitude, which can hinder their faith. The discussion explores how these mindsets can limit our understanding of God's promises and our ability to witness His mighty works. Additionally, they tackle the crucial issue of unity within the church and how a lack of faith can impede the body of Christ from experiencing the oneness for which Jesus prayed. The post Faith Comes from Hearing the Word of God with Willie B. Williams appeared first on Radically Christian.

Are you struggling with how to share the gospel without coming across as weird, awkward, or pushy? Many Christians want to reach their neighbors with the gospel but don’t know the best approach – especially with successful or wealthy individuals. This episode tackles those tough evangelism questions and dilemmas head-on. If you’ve ever felt intimidated […] The post How to Share the Gospel without Being Weird with Matthew Morine appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is baptism such a big deal in the New Testament? Many Christians understand that baptism is important, but they may struggle to articulate the deep meaning behind this sacred act. In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams and his guest Marcus Stenson dive deep into the topic of baptism, addressing questions and concerns that many believers have. Whether you're new to the concept of baptism or have been a Christian for years, this episode will provide valuable insights and clarification on this crucial aspect of the Christian faith. The post Why is Baptism Important and Beautiful? with Marcus Stenson appeared first on Radically Christian.

Spiritual warfare, what is it and how do we engage in it? The Bible has a lot to say about spiritual beings, both good and evil. However, many of us are very uncomfortable thinking about spiritual forces, especially demons and "the satan." This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast aims to address these perplexing issues and provide biblical insight into this often-misunderstood aspect of the Christian faith. The post Understanding the Satan, Demons, and Spiritual Warfare with Eric Ramseur appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode, Stuart Peck and Wes McAdams discuss the Exodus account and its relationship to the Gospel. They discuss how understanding the historical and cultural context of the ancient Israelites can deepen our appreciation for scripture and make it even more relatable to our lives today. Biblical characters grappled with very real issues in their specific historical setting, which can mirror our own struggles if understood properly. The post The Exodus and The Gospel with Stuart Peck appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today's Bible study, Wes McAdams and Boo Scott discuss the Lord's table. They examine Jesus' table fellowship in the Gospel of Luke and its implications for the Lord's Supper today. They also discuss what it really means to "discern the body" and take communion in a worthy manner. The post Who is Welcome at the Lord’s Table? with Boo Scott appeared first on Radically Christian.

Are Bible scholars and Bible experts necessary for Christians to understand Scripture? Some feel that the Bible is simple and does not require scholarly interpretation, while others find the Bible intimidating due to its ancient languages, historical context, and complex meanings. This episode explores whether "average" Christians today need Bible scholars or can simply read scripture for themselves. The post Do We Need Bible Scholars? with Jeremie Beller appeared first on Radically Christian.

How should we read and understand the Bible? Wes McAdams interviews John Mark Hicks about different ways churches of Christ have interpreted the Bible, either using a "blueprint" approach focused on patterns for the church or a more theological approach centered on God's story and identity. The post How We Read the Bible in Churches of Christ with John Mark Hicks appeared first on Radically Christian.

Many churches today lack strong spiritual leadership. Without godly elders to shepherd and guide them, congregations often struggle in their efforts to grow disciples and spread the gospel. In this episode, Wes McAdams discusses how to develop healthy leaders with Bob Turner. The post Healthy Church Leadership with Bob Turner appeared first on Radically Christian.

Many Christians today feel confused and conflicted about how to respond to LGBTQ claims in a Christlike way. In this culture of shifting sexual norms, what should our posture be? Can we hold to biblical truth while also extending compassion? This timely episode tackles these critical questions head-on. Dr. Rubel Shelly, our guest, provides clarity from Scripture and history on God's design for gender, sexuality, and marriage. Listen as Dr. Shelly and Wes McAdams discuss how to navigate these culturally controversial topics with both conviction and Christlike care. The post A Biblical Response to LGBTQ+ Claims with Rubel Shelly appeared first on Radically Christian.

Many men struggle with fears of appearing weak or incompetent, which can inhibit personal growth, transparency in relationships, and willingness to ask for help. In this episode, Wes McAdams interviews Jim Martin to discuss cultural pressures and misconceptions around masculinity that feed these fears. They explore how scripture and the example of Jesus provide a different model of true strength through humility and vulnerability. The post The Strength to Be Weak with Jim Martin appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this conversation, Mitch Wiggains and Wes McAdams discuss Mitch's preaching series on Romans 8. They explore topics such as the evidence of transformation in the life of a Christian, the assurance of salvation, the difference between justification, sanctification, and glorification, and the importance of understanding the love of God. They also delve into the concept of adoption and the unshakable inheritance that believers have in Christ. The post Studying Romans 8 with Mitch Wiggains appeared first on Radically Christian.

How should Christians dress for worship? This episode tackles the controversial question of what we should wear to worship. It addresses common opinions and justifications used to say we must dress up, examining problems like adding traditions as requirements, showing favoritism to the well-dressed, and binding personal convictions on others. Issues like legalism, stewardship, and unity are explored as they relate to this topic. The post How to Dress for Worship with Chris McCurley appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams interviews Dan Bouchelle, president of Mission Resource Network, about gaining a global perspective on Christianity. Dan draws on his decades of experience preaching and working with churches worldwide to discuss problems facing the American church such as declining attendance, fear-based politics, and ethnocentrism. The post Developing a Global Perspective with Dan Bouchelle appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode, Wes McAdams and Jason Helton discuss the impacts of technology on our lives and spirituality. They address questions like how various technologies over the past century have shaped culture and individuals, how our constant connectivity online can isolate us, and how we as Christians should think about and engage with technology in a wise and discerning way. The post How Christians Use Technology with Jason Helton appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams interviews Dan Chambers about his current preaching series on the Gospel of John. They discuss some of the deeper theological themes and symbols that are found in John's account, including how Jesus' first miracle of turning water into wine foreshadows the coming Messianic banquet. The conversation focuses on how Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecies and institutions like the temple, and how believing in Christ is the only way to find lasting satisfaction and quench our deepest spiritual thirst. The post Studying the Gospel of John with Dan Chambers appeared first on Radically Christian.

Many Christians struggle to understand the relationship between God's grace, our faith, and living a life of good works. Do we earn salvation by our righteous deeds? Does God's grace mean we don't have to work at all? In this episode, Wes McAdams interviews Kris Emerson about this important topic. They discuss common pitfalls like pride, burnout, and discouragement that happen when we don't understand the grace of God. The post Studying Grace, Faith, and Works with Kris Emerson appeared first on Radically Christian.

What can adoption teach us about the Gospel? In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study podcast Kyle and Leah Beard join Wes McAdams to share their story of building their family through adoption. They share how their faith motivated their decision and what it has taught them about God. The post Adoption as a Picture of the Gospel appeared first on Radically Christian.

Have you ever wondered what the Bible really teaches about the body, soul, and spirit? In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Chris McCurley and Wes McAdams tackle common misconceptions about these ideas that many Christians assume are biblical but are actually influenced more by Greek philosophy. The post Studying the Body, Soul, and Spirit with Chris McCurley appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does the Bible say about church leadership? That's what Clifton F. Webb has been preaching about recently at the Wayne Road Church of Christ in Romulus, Michigan. Wes McAdams and Clifton Webb discuss this very important subject in today's Bible Study Podcast. The post Studying Church Leadership with Clifton F. Webb appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is the book of Acts all about? In today's Bible study Wes visits with Marcus Stenson, Preaching Minister for the Leander Church of Christ. Marcus has been preaching through the book of Acts and has some amazing insights to share. The post Studying the Book of Acts with Marcus Stenson appeared first on Radically Christian.

The Gospel of Matthew is what Boo Scott has been studying, teaching, and preaching lately. On this episode of the Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams visits with Boo Scott, Lead Minister for the National Park Church in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Wes and Boo discuss the Gospel of Matthew. The post Studying the Gospel of Matthew with Boo Scott appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is discipleship? Billy McGuiggan has been studying and preaching on discipleship this year at the Three Chopt Church of Christ in Richmond, VA. In today's Bible study, Billy and Wes McAdams discuss this topic of discipleship. The post Studying Discipleship with Billy McGuiggan appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today's Bible study we are studying prayer with Clint Glitner. Clint is one of the ministers at the Sioux Falls Church of Christ. Both new Christians and seasoned disciples struggle with prayer, but are often afraid to talk about this struggle. Few people are willing to say what the disciples of Jesus said, "Lord, teach us to pray" (Luke 11:1). Why do we struggle with prayer and how can we improve our prayer life? The post Studying Prayer with Clint Glitner appeared first on Radically Christian.

We are studying idols and false gods on today's episode of the Bible Study Podcast. Our special guest today is Jordan Arnold. Jordan and his wife, Natalie, were missionaries in the Slovak Republic for 7 years. They now live in Oklahoma, where he preaches for the Hooker Church of Christ. The post Studying Idols and False Gods with Jordan Arnold appeared first on Radically Christian.

The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is the subject of today's episode of The Bible Study Podcast. Today's special guest is Chris McCurley, preaching minister for the Walnut Street Church of Christ in Dickson, Tennessee. This is the first episode in a new series in which Wes interviews preachers about what they have been studying and teaching lately. The post Studying the Sermon on the Mount with Chris McCurley appeared first on Radically Christian.

How can Christians reach our LGBTQ+ neighbors? In today's Bible Study podcast, Wes McAdams visits with Guy Hammond, the Executive Director and Founder of Strength in Weakness Ministries. The post The Key to Reaching Our LGBTQ+ Neighbors appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's Bible study on Christian sexual ethics was originally taught as a Wednesday night Bible class at the church of Christ on McDermott Road. This was the final lesson in a series entitled, "True Love: The Truth About Sexuality in a World of Competing Ideas." The post Looking for True Love: A Class on Christian Sexual Ethics appeared first on Radically Christian.

Are you a struggling Christian parent? Do you know a struggling Christian parent? Is there a chance you will be a struggling Christian parent in the future? If so, this Bible study is for you. The post Encouragement for Struggling Christian Parents appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is faith? Have you ever wondered how the Bible defines it? Does it just mean believing something is true or is there more to it than that? In today's Bible study, Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss four related questions from one of our listeners: The post What is Faith? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Should Christians use violence to defend themselves and others? This is part two of a two-part series on Christians and violence. If you have not listened to part one, we would encourage you to listen to that conversation as well. In part one, Wes McAdams, Luke Dockery, Brandon Britton, and Steven Cuffle all shared how […] The post Should Christians Use Violence – Part Two appeared first on Radically Christian.

Should Christians use violence to defend themselves and others? What does the Bible say? What did early Christians think about violence? In today's Bible study, Wes McAdams visits with Luke Dockery, Brandon Britton, and Steven Cuffle about this highly controversial topic. The post Should Christians Use Violence – Part One appeared first on Radically Christian.

Make the church more masculine? It has been suggested that the church is too feminine and we should make it more masculine, especially if we want to reach young men. The post Make the Church More Masculine? Is the Church too Feminine? appeared first on Radically Christian.

"If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat" (2 Thessalonians 3:10). These are words the apostle Paul wrote to the church in Thessalonica, but what do they mean in context and how do we apply them today? The post If Anyone Will Not Work, Neither Shall He Eat appeared first on Radically Christian.

Galatians 5:18 says, “But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.” So, how are Christians led by the Spirit? In today’s episode, Wes McAdams and Chase Turner discuss that question.  The post How Are We Led by the Spirit? appeared first on Radically Christian.

“Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven,” these are the words Jesus to Peter and his apostles. Jesus also went on to say, “and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” What does it mean to bind or loose? Does it mean the apostles had the authority to create their own rules and regulations? What sort of authority was Jesus giving his followers and why? The post Whatever You Bind on Earth appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is heaven like? That is the question Kenny Embry and Wes McAdams discuss on today's episode. This episode originally aired on Kenny's podcast, "Balancing the Christian Life." He graciously allowed us to republish it for subscribers of the "Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast" to hear as well. The post What is Heaven Like? appeared first on Radically Christian.

How to live as unashamed Christians. In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study podcast, Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley respond to an email from a teen listener who wrote, "I was wondering if you could talk about teenagers and being proud of being a Christian. I know a lot of teenagers these days hide the fact that they are Christian or lie and say they aren’t because they fear they’ll lose their friends or be made fun of. I know personally I struggle with this, because from time to time religion comes into the conversation and I know a lot of teenagers and some adults fear they’ll be judged based on their religious beliefs." The post How to Live as Unashamed Christians appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's episode first aired on The Wise Disciple Podcast, hosted by Logan Judy. Wes McAdams and Logan Judy discuss biblical literacy, political partisanship, and how to navigate controversial issues in the culture. We appreciate receiving permission to publish this episode on our channel as well. The post Issues We Deal with in the Church Today appeared first on Radically Christian.

Asking good questions of the Bible is a more challenging task than many suppose. When we have a question about something, it seems pretty straightforward to simply ask, “What does the Bible say about this?” But if we are not careful, the answers we find might say more about our own assumptions than they do […] The post How to Ask Better Questions of the Bible appeared first on Radically Christian.

Does God do evil? Today's Bible study revolves around two related questions from listeners. The first is, "How would I answer an unbelieving neighbor who asked, 'How does your God get all credit and none of the blame?'" And the second question is: The post Does God Do Evil? appeared first on Radically Christian.

A better-safe-than-sorry theology is one that wants to do what is right and good. But, unfortunately, it also tends to portray God as being a God of technicalities, who punishes people for making honest procedural mistakes. Furthermore, these procedures are often not based on the explicit teaching of Scripture, but on certain assumptions that are […] The post Better Safe Than Sorry Theology appeared first on Radically Christian.

Was Jesus all-knowing? Or, to put it another way, was Jesus omniscient? That is the question Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss in today's Bible study. The post Was Jesus All-Knowing (During His Earthly Ministry)? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Will we have free will in heaven? Or, as one of our listeners worded it very well, "On the new earth after judgment will we still have free will? If so, would there ever be a danger of rebelling again?" The post Will We Have Free Will in Heaven? appeared first on Radically Christian.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). These are the words Paul wrote to the church at Thessalonica. But what does it mean to give thanks in all circumstances? What about when we are hurting or suffering? Are we really supposed to give thanks in those circumstances? Is it naive, or cruel, to expect people to give thanks in these painful circumstances? The post Give Thanks in All Circumstances – Practicing Gratitude appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today's Bible study, Wes McAdams visits with Jacob Hawk about evangelism. What is evangelism? What are some common misunderstandings about evangelism? What passages of Scripture should shape our thinking about evangelism? The post Common Misunderstandings About Evangelism appeared first on Radically Christian.

What do we mean when we call something biblical? What does biblical mean? How can you tell whether or not a certain behavior is biblical? In this Bible study, Wes McAdams and Matt Mead discuss how certain “summary texts” can help us better define what is or isn’t biblical. Matt Mead is the Family Life […] The post How to Tell if Something is Biblical appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today's Bible study, Wes McAdams discusses Christian nationalism with special guest, Jacob Rutledge. What is Christian nationalism and is it a problem? Are Christianity and nationalism compatible or are they antithetical worldviews? What does the Bible teach us to help us navigate this issue? These are some of the questions we explore in today's Bible study. The post Christian Nationalism: What Is It and Is It a Problem? appeared first on Radically Christian.

How should Christians think about gender roles? Are they a consequence of the fall or are they part of the created order? In today's Bible study, Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley continue their discussion about gender roles. The post Gender and the Fall (Part Two) appeared first on Radically Christian.

How does gender relate to creation and the fall? Did sin enter the world through Adam or through Eve? These are some of the questions we are discussing in today's Bible study, which is the first in a two-part series. In this Bible study, Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss passages from Genesis 1-3, Romans 5, and 1 Timothy 2. The post Gender and the Fall (Part One) appeared first on Radically Christian.

How to study the Bible using Logos Bible Software. In today's Bible study, Wes McAdams demonstrates the power of Logos Bible Software. Our friends at Logos have upgraded us to Logos 10 and you will see many of the new features and how it might be able to benefit your Bible studies and lesson preparation. Logos is also offering some great deals for our audience. Visit https://RadicallyChristian.com/logos The post How I Study the Bible with Logos Bible Software (Logos 10 Review) appeared first on Radically Christian.

What advice would you give to new Christians? Today's Bible study is a response to a question we received from one of our listeners, who wrote, "I am a new Christian, who recently gave her life to Christ, and I want to know what should I do next. What should I do next to honor Jesus and to let others know about my decision to follow Christ?" The post Advice for New Christians appeared first on Radically Christian.

"Speak where the Bible speaks and be silent where the Bible is silent" is a well-known phrase within the Restoration Movement. In today's Bible study, Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss whether or not this phrase is similar to Paul's instruction to not, "go beyond what is written" (1 Corinthians 4:6). The post Speak Where the Bible Speaks and Be Silent Where It is Silent appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does Romans 8:20 mean? In Romans 8:20-21, Paul says, "For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God." What does "creation" mean in this passage? What does it mean that creation was subjected to futility? And what does it mean that creation will be set free from its bondage? The post What Does Romans 8:20 Mean? Creation Subjected to Futility? appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does 1 Corinthians 5:5 mean? In 1 Corinthians 5:5, Paul says, "You are to deliver this man to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord." What is Paul telling the church in Corinth to do? What does the phrase, "Deliver to Satan" mean? And to what does "destruction of the flesh" refer? The post What Does 1 Corinthians 5:5 Mean? Deliver This Man to Satan appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's Bible study revolves around a quote from one of Wes' recent sermons. He said, "The Gospel is as much about reconciling people with one another as it is reconciling people with God." Travis asks Wes to explain and expound upon this idea. The post What’s More Important, Reconciliation with God or People? appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does Leviticus 15 mean? This chapter of Leviticus deals specifically with "bodily discharges." Why is a bodily discharge unclean and why does it make people and objects unclean? What is uncleanness all about? The post What Does Leviticus 15 Mean? Ritually Unclean appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is a cruciform hermeneutic? A hermeneutic is the lens through which we interpret and apply Scripture. And cruciform means something is shaped like the cross. So, what would it look like to let the cross of Jesus be the lens through which we interpret and apply Scripture? That is the question Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss in this Bible study. The post A Cruciform Hermeneutic appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does Matthew 19:9 mean? Jesus said, "Whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery" (Matthew 19:9). What does Jesus mean by these very startling words? This passage has been the source of much debate, confusion, and heartache. But Jesus spoke these words to bless people, not to curse them. The post What Does Matthew 19:9 Mean? Marriage and Divorce appeared first on Radically Christian.

How does the Bible shape our thinking about biology and ethics? Medical technology has alleviated much pain and suffering, but it has also created ethical questions and dilemmas for Christians. How should Christians navigate questions about life, biology, health, and science? The post The Bible and Bioethics: IVF, Embryo Adoption, and More appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does Genesis 9:20-27 mean? What was Ham's sin and why was his son, Canaan, cursed because of Ham's sin? The story begins in Genesis 9:20-22, which says, "Noah began to be a man of the soil, and he planted a vineyard. He drank of the wine and became drunk and lay uncovered in his tent. And Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father and told his two brothers outside." Because of this sin, Ham's son, Canaan, is cursed by Noah. What is going on in this story? The post What Does Genesis 9:20-27 Mean? (The Sin of Ham & Curse of Canaan) appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does Hebrews 6:4-6 mean? The passage says, "For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt." Does this mean it is impossible for people to be saved if they fall away from Christ? Were those who fall away ever saved? How should we understand and apply this warning? The post What Does Hebrews 6:4-6? (Impossible to Restore) appeared first on Radically Christian.

heir husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church." Does Paul mean that women should not talk to others when the church gathers together? Is it not okay for women to sing in the church? What does this passage mean? The post What Does 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 Mean? (Women Keep Silent?) appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does 2 Corinthians 6:14 mean, "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?" What is the context of 2 Corinthians 6:14? What did Paul mean when he wrote this to the Corinthian church? And how can Christians apply these words to our lives today? The post What Does 2 Corinthians 6:14 Mean? (Unequally Yoked) appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does 1 Timothy 2:15 mean when it says, "She will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith and love and holiness, with self-control"? What does childbearing have to do with being saved? The post What Does 1 Timothy 2:15 Mean? (Saved Through Childbearing) appeared first on Radically Christian.

Floyd, discussions about race and racism became top-of-mind for many of us. And Christians are struggling to navigate our current reality well. The post Race and Racism (Hope for the Future of the Church) appeared first on Radically Christian.

What are Christians to do in times like these? What hope can we find in the Bible for navigating these politically polarized times? The post Political Polarization (Hope for the Future of the Church) appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does it mean to be masculine? What does it mean to be feminine? Did God make men and women totally unique? Is gender just a social construct? Discussions about these matters can be filled with anger, fear, division, and frustration, but that doesn't have to be the case. We can have hope-filled conversations about gender. The post Gender Issues (Hope for the Future of the Church) appeared first on Radically Christian.

Can the church be unified when we disagree on certain aspects of our faith? What hope is there for the future of the church when there is so much disagreement? The post Doctrinal Differences (Hope for the Future of the Church) appeared first on Radically Christian.

Is it accurate to think of American culture as “post-Christian” and how can the church thrive in a culture like this? This is part two of our series, “Hope for the Future of the Church.” About the Series:  The pandemic, politics, and a rapidly changing culture have left a lot of Christians are feeling uncertain […] The post Post-Christian Culture (Hope for the Future of the Church) appeared first on Radically Christian.

This is part one of our new series, "Hope for the Future of the Church." In this episode, we will discuss why we should be hopeful about the future of church attendance. The post Hope for the Future of the Church: Church Attendance appeared first on Radically Christian.

One of the most important words in theological conversations is "eschatology." But what does "eschatology" mean and why is it so important? Wes McAdams and Marcus Stenson define and discuss eschatology. Marcus is the High School Minister at the church of Christ on McDermott Road and a passionate evangelist. The post Eschatology: What Is It and Why Is It Important? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today’s Bible study, Wes McAdams visits with Clifton F. Webb about intellectual virtues and critical thinking skills. What does it mean to be a critical thinker and why is it important for students of Scripture? One example from Scripture is the Bereans of Acts 17:11, “Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; […] The post Intellectual Virtues for Bible Study appeared first on Radically Christian.

What are we actually claiming when we say the Bible is inspired? In today's Bible study, Wes McAdams visits with Steven Cuffle and Dr. Jared Saltz about some of the major theories and views about biblical inspiration. How should we define inspiration? What are some of the major differences between different theories of inspiration? What are the pros and cons of each theory? Can we have fellowship with one another if we have slightly different ideas about the inspiration of Scripture? The post What Does it Mean that the Bible is Inspired? appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does it mean that we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ? In today's Bible study, Wes and Travis discuss a question from a listener: "Growing up in the church I heard it said quite often we’d sit at the judgment seat. We will give an account for all our sins….almost like a line-by-line reading of everything we’ve done wrong. I’ve also heard many sermons saying that God has wiped away all our sins and remembers them no more (perhaps magnified with studies on grace that I was never exposed to as a child). So are sins forgotten or will we have to give an account!?!?" The post Appearing Before the Judgment Seat of Christ appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does it mean when the Bible says faith is counted as righteousness? In Romans 4, Paul discusses how Abraham’s “faith was counted to him as righteousness.” Abraham believed “God was able to do what he had promised” and because of that faith, God considered Abraham to righteous. More importantly, Paul goes on to say […] The post Faith is Counted as Righteousness appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's Bible study discussion was prompted by a listener named Isabella, who wrote in to ask about becoming a better Christian. Isabella feels she is too focused on worldly things and doesn't do enough for the Lord. She wants to overcome some of her struggles with sin. She fears she has been lazy and disobedient. The post How Do I Become a Better Christian? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In whose name should we be baptized? Should we baptize people in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? Or should we baptize people simply in the name of Jesus? The post In Whose Name Should We Be Baptized? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today's Bible study, Wes and Travis discuss the flesh and the Spirit. The apostle Paul taught that there is sin dwelling in the "flesh" of every person. Because of the sin in our flesh, even when we want to do what is right, we lack "the ability to carry it out" (Romans 7:18). Every human being is trapped in a cycle of sin and death. The post What the Bible Says About the Flesh and the Spirit appeared first on Radically Christian.

This discussion on persecution is part two of a two-part series. If you haven’t already done so, you may want to listen to the first episode in this series: “Is Political Privilege Harmful to Christianity?“ Last week we began considering the question, “Why is Christianity growing in some countries but declining in others?” In that […] The post Does Christianity Grow in Times of Persecution (Part 2 of 2) appeared first on Radically Christian.

oday's Bible study. According to an article by Nilya Saiya, the answer is "political privilege." Saiya argues that it is not governmental persecution, but rather governmental support that is one of the biggest threats to the growth of Christianity in a country. Saiya reports, "As governmental support for Christianity increases, the number of Christians declines significantly." The post Is Political Privilege Harmful to Christianity? (Part One) appeared first on Radically Christian.

Many congregations preface Communion with short Communion talks. This Communion talk typically consists of a Scripture reading and a few thoughts to help the church prepare emotionally and mentally for sharing the bread and the cup. Today's Bible study will hopefully be an encouragement to those who lead in this capacity. The post How to Give Better Communion Talks appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is the best marriage advice in the Bible? It may not be what you think. Hollee and Wes McAdams discuss why much of the marriage advice given today in books, seminars, and by well-meaning individuals often does not get to the heart of the issue. The post The Best Marriage Advice in the Bible appeared first on Radically Christian.

Forgiven people forgive people. In today's Bible Study, Wes McAdams discusses forgiveness with Billy McGuiggan. For followers of Jesus, it is important that we both experience and extend forgiveness. Unfortunately, many of us tend to struggle with both of these aspects of forgiveness. The post Forgiven People Forgive People appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's Bible Study considers the question, what is an evangelist? This question comes from Jeff, who asks, "Over the past year or two, I’ve thought a lot about the role of the evangelist and what exactly Paul means to “do the work of the evangelist” (2 Tim 4:5). It’s interesting that the word form εὐαγγελιστής is only used 3x in the NT, yet we build a lot of our congregational ministry in the churches of Christ around that role/office.  The post What is an Evangelist? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Every follower of Jesus should hold himself or herself to a higher standard than they hold anyone else. Today's Bible study was prompted by one of Travis' favorite quotes from "The Chosen" television series. In Season Two, Episode 1, Jesus says, “I ask a lot of those who follow me, but I ask little of those who do not.” The post Holding Ourselves to a Higher Standard appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is karma? What does the Bible say about karma? Should Christians believe in karma? These are some of the questions Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss in today’s Bible study. This episode was prompted by a listener named Jonathan. Buddhism and Hinduism teach karma in connection with reincarnation. These religions believe your current life […] The post What Does the Bible Say About Karma? appeared first on Radically Christian.

What if someone is baptized for the wrong reason? What does the Bible say about the validity of a baptism that was for the wrong reason? Christians have debated these types of questions for centuries. People worry whether they knew enough, believed the right things, or did everything in the right way for their baptism […] The post Baptized for the Wrong Reason appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes McAdams interviews Michael Whitworth about his new book, The Son's Supremacy: A Guide to Hebrews. If you are interested in an encouraging and in-depth study of Hebrews, "The Son's Supremacy" is an excellent help. Whitworth is an incredibly talented, knowledgable, and engaging author. His book will help many better understand the book of Hebrews. The post A Bible Study Guide to Hebrews appeared first on Radically Christian.

1 John 3:20 says, "...whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart"? What does John mean by this? That is the question Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss in today's Bible study. The post When Our Heart Condemns Us (1 John 3:20) appeared first on Radically Christian.

Is stoicism compatible with Christianity? In what ways does stoic philosophy agree with Christian thought? In what ways does stoic philosophy contradict Christian thought? These are some of the questions Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss on today’s podcast. This discussion was prompted by one of our listeners, Ryan, who has noticed an increasing number […] The post Is Stoicism Compatible with Christianity? appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is the “perfect” in 1 Corinthians 13:10? That is the question that Wes and Travis tackle in today’s Bible study. This question was raised by a listner, who wrote, “1 Corinthians 13:10 says, ‘but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away.’ I’ve always heard (and my husband still firmly believes) ‘the perfect’ […] The post What is the “Perfect” in 1 Corinthians 13:10? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today’s question comes from Stephen Scaggs, who writes, “Paul often gives a theology to work. Will we work in the new creation? What does it mean ‘their work follows them’? In connection to the bodily resurrection, what does it mean when Paul says our work is ‘not in vain’? Should we love our work?” In […] The post What the Bible Says About Our Work appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's Bible Study Podcast is a bit different. Hollee McAdams joins us to ask Wes some questions about his first twenty years in ministry. The post Lessons Learned from 20 Years in Ministry appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's Bible study discussion revolves around the question, "Was Jesus harsh with people?" This question was prompted by listener Randall Dickey. Should we perceive Jesus as a harsh person? Was he harsh, in general? Why did Jesus have moments, like the cleansing of the temple, when he was relatively harsh? Should we imitate Jesus' "harsh" behavior? These are some of the questions we tackle in today's Bible study and we hope this conversation is a blessing to you. The post Was Jesus “Harsh” with People? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Should we obey God out of love or fear? This is what listener Neal Cook would like to know. Neal asked about the contrast between Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, which says: “The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will […] The post Should We Obey God Out of Love or Fear? appeared first on Radically Christian.

How do we cope when spiritual leaders fall? Is it possible to keep them from falling? Can we ensure their fall doesn't bring us down with them? Is there a way to prevent such people from becoming leaders in the first place? These are very difficult questions, but they are questions with which the church must wrestle. The post Coping with the Fall of Spiritual Leaders appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes McAdams and Caleb Cochran discuss a question about sexual immorality, which was submitted by one of our listeners, “The bible references sexual immorality pretty often, but what does that mean exactly? I feel like that’s a vague term and would have a very difficult time explaining it to someone wanting to pursue Christ.” Special […] The post What is Sexual Immorality in the Bible? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes McAdams and Steven Cuffle discuss the issue of Christian unity. We all know that Christian unity is important, but why is it important and how can it be achieved? Christians have been arguing and fighting with one another for nearly 2,000 years. So, how can we be unified when we disagree on so many […] The post Can Christians Be Unified When We Disagree? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes McAdams and Steven Cuffle continue their discussion on how the Bible defines justice. In this episode, biblical justice is compared to four other justice theories. How do secular thinkers define justice and how do those definitions compare with the Bible's definition of justice? Is it possible that we, as Christians, have adopted a secular view of justice more than a biblical view? The post Justice (Part Two): Biblical Justice Versus Secular Justice appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does the Bible say about justice and how does the Bible’s definition of justice compare to modern theories about justice? This is the topic Wes McAdams and special guest, Steven Cuffle, will be discussing in this two-part conversation. In this first episode, Wes and Steven discuss the various aspects of justice in both the […] The post Justice (Part One): How the Bible Describes Justice appeared first on Radically Christian.

On this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams and today's guest, Luke Dockery, discuss a question from a listener about the fake news phenomenon. How should Christians respond to the fake new phenomenon? How can Christians have more discernment about what is true and discretion about what to share? We hope you enjoy this conversation. The post How Should Christians Handle Fake News? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes McAdams and today's guest, Luke Dockery, discuss the meaning of Jesus' parable of the shrewd, dishonest, or unjust manager from Luke 16:1-13. What does Jesus mean by commending a dishonest or shrewd man? What does Jesus mean when he says, "Make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth" (Luke 16:9)? Is Jesus being ironic or is Jesus teaching us how we should use money? Wes and Luke discuss both possibilities. Special thanks to John Shipley, one of our listeners, who submitted this question for discussion. The post Jesus’ Parable of the Shrewd Manager (Luke 16:1-13) appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes McAdams and his wife, Hollee McAdams, discuss "cancel culture." It is often assumed that cancel culture is something new. But in reality, every culture has canceled people for violating certain core values. Wes and Hollee discuss questions like: What is cancel culture? Is it always wrong to cancel people? What should be the goal of correction and discipline? What does the Bible say about cancel culture? The post How Christians Respond to Cancel Culture appeared first on Radically Christian.

Our Bible study question today revolves around being justified by faith. Wes McAdams, Caleb Kirkwood, and Travis Pauley study through Romans 3 and discuss words like justice, righteousness, and justification. What does it mean to be justified by faith? What does God's justice look like? What does it look like for justified people to do justice? We hope you enjoy this conversation. The post Doing Justice and Being Justified by Faith appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's discussion was prompted by a listener, who asked, "What does the phrase, 'washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit' mean?" This phrase comes from Titus 3:5 and is the text that Wes McAdams, Caleb Kirkwood, and Travis Pauley discuss in this episode. The post Washing of Regeneration and Renewal of the Holy Spirit appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes McAdams visits with Travis Pauley and Caleb Kirkwood (who are both in their 20s) to consider their unique perspective on how worship attendance will fair in a post-covid world. Will young people return to worship after the threat of the pandemic has subsided? Will live streaming have negative long-term effects on the future of the church? These are some of the questions we discuss in this episode of the Bible study podcast. The post The Future of Church Attendance – Bible Study Podcast appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes McAdams, Travis Pauley, and Caleb Kirkwood discuss the idea that there are only five acts of worship and that all five must be practiced each time we gather. The post Five Acts of Worship? – Bible Study Podcast appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes McAdams, Travis Pauley, and Caleb Kirkwood discuss the idea of "servant leadership" and what Jesus really has to say about being a leader and becoming a leader. How is leadership different for servant's of God's kingdom? The post What Does Jesus Say About Christian Leadership? – Bible Study Podcast appeared first on Radically Christian.

What do people mean when they refer to a sinful nature? Do we have a sinful nature? If so, how do we overcome our sinful nature? The Lord said, "I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the intention of man's heart is evil from his youth" (Genesis 8:21). What did he mean by this? These are some of the questions Wes McAdams, Caleb Kirkwood, and Travis Pauley discuss and study in this episode of the Bible study podcast. The post Do We Have a Sinful Nature? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Is there a sin that is unforgivable? What did Jesus mean when he said, "Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come" (Matthew 12:32)? Wes, Travis, and Caleb Kirkwood discuss a question from a listener concerning, blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, the unforgivable sin. The post What is the Unforgivable Sin? A Discussion on the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit appeared first on Radically Christian.

Concerning the Lord's Supper, or Communion, the Apostle Paul wrote, "For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself" (1 Corinthians 11:29). What does it mean to discern the body? Are we to think about the body of Christ on the cross or the body of Christ, the church? Is "Communion" about communing with the Lord or communing with each other? These are the questions we consider and study in today's Bible Study Podcast. The post Communion Thoughts: Discerning the Body appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss a listener's question concerning Romans 5:3-5, which says, "We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us." They compare Romans 5:3-5 with a well-known saying, "Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny" (Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching). The post Character Produces Hope (Romans 5:4) appeared first on Radically Christian.

Reading a whole book of the Bible in one sitting is easier, and more rewarding, than you might think. After all, if you received a letter from a friend, you would likely not read it one sentence at a time, but rather the entire letter all at once. The vast majority of New Testament books are letters, written to individuals and church families. They were intended to be read in one sitting. Travis and Wes discuss the power of reading books this way and also read through the book of Philippians from beginning to end.  The post Reading Whole Books of the Bible appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this sixth and final episode of our series, "What is the Kingdom of Heaven?" Wes and Travis discuss Jesus' words in Matthew 13:52, "Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house, who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.” What does Jesus mean by treasure that is new and treasure that is old? What is a scribe that that has been trained for the kingdom of heaven? The post What is the Kingdom of Heaven (Part 6): New and Old Treasures appeared first on Radically Christian.

As Jesus continues to unfold hidden truths about the nature of heaven's kingdom, he describes the kingdom as a net that is spread across the whole world. What does this parable reveal about God's kingdom? What does this parable reveal about the way God deals with evil? How would this parable change our lives if we took its implications seriously? We hope you enjoy this Bible study discussion with Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley. The post What is the Kingdom of Heaven (Part 5): The Parable of the Net appeared first on Radically Christian.

As we continue our ongoing discussion about the nature of the kingdom of heaven, Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley discuss Jesus' parables about the hidden treasure and the pearl of great value (Matthew 13:44-46). What do these two parables teach us about the nature of the kingdom? What do these two parables teach us about how we are to receive the kingdom? The post What is the Kingdom of Heaven (Part 4): Hidden Treasure and Valuable Pearl appeared first on Radically Christian.

As Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley continue their series on, “What is the Kingdom of Heaven,” they discuss the parables of the mustard seed and the leaven (Matthew 13:31-33). What does it mean that the kingdom of heaven is like a tiny mustard seed that grows into a large tree? What does it mean that […] The post What is the Kingdom of Heaven (Part 3): Mustard Seed and Leaven appeared first on Radically Christian.

In the second episode of our series, "What is the Kingdom of Heaven?" Wes and Travis discuss Jesus' parable of the wheat and the tares (Matthew 13:24-30). Perhaps the most surprising feature of the kingdom of heaven is that it will overlap the kingdoms of the world for a period of time. Though the kingdom of heaven has come, we continue to deal with the seeds the evil one has sown in the world. The post What is the Kingdom of Heaven (Part 2): The Parable of Wheat and Tares appeared first on Radically Christian.

What is the kingdom of heaven? Over the next several episodes, Wes McAdams and Travis Pauley will discuss several parables from Matthew 13, which reveal the nature of the kingdom of heaven. On this episode, Wes and Travis discuss how we should think about parables, as well as the first parable in Matthew 13, “The […] The post What is the Kingdom of Heaven: The Parable of the Soils appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the Bible Study Podcast, Wes and Travis continue their discussion on asking better Bible questions. What is an assumption? What assumptions do we make when we study the Bible? What can the Sadducees teach us about making assumptions when we study the Bible? How can we develop better assumptions? The post Asking Better Bible Questions (Part Two) appeared first on Radically Christian.

On this episode of the Bible Study Podcast, Travis and Wes discuss how to ask better questions when we are reading and studying the Bible. How are we supposed to approach scripture as followers of Jesus? What's the difference between deductive and inductive Bible study? Does the Bible answer all of our questions? The post Asking Better Bible Questions (Part One) appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this week’s episode, Wes continues his conversation on racism in the early church with Andrew, the host of the popular “Post-Apostolic Church” YouTube channel. Racism, classism, and other forms of discrimination have plagued our world for centuries. Not only is the church wrestling with these issues today, Christians in the First, Second, and Third centuries dealt with them as well. We will allow some of the theologians and leaders from the early church to help us think through how we should treat one another as followers of Jesus. If you missed Part One of this conversation, you can find it here. The post Racism and the Early Church (Part Two) appeared first on Radically Christian.

Racism, classism, and other forms of discrimination have plagued our world for centuries. Not only is the church wrestling with these issues today, Christians in the First, Second, and Third centuries dealt with them as well. On this week’s episode, Wes discusses racism in the early church with Andrew, the host of the popular “Post-Apostolic Church” YouTube channel. Quotes from church leaders, living in the centuries following the apostles, can be incredibly helpful for those of us trying to live out the Gospel today. The post Racism and the Early Church (Part One) appeared first on Radically Christian.

On this episode of the Bible Study Podcast, Travis and Wes discuss a listener's question about the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation. Is there a difference? Wes walks through the parable of the Unforgiving Servant, which reminds us that when we have an opportunity to forgive, we are being given the chance to reenact the forgiveness Christ has given us. The post Forgiveness and Reconciliation: What Does the Bible Say About Forgiveness? appeared first on Radically Christian.

On this episode of the Bible Study Podcast, Travis and Wes discuss two questions from listeners that both revolve around the issue of death and resurrection. If our bodies will be raised and transformed, is it wrong for a Christian to be cremated? Also, between death and resurrection, where do our spirits reside? Though these are sensitive questions, we pray you find encouragement and hope from this study. The post Questions About Death: Where Do We Go and Is Cremation Wrong? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today's Bible study, we continue to discuss our hope for "new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells" (2 Peter 3:13). If you haven't had a chance to listen to the first episode in this "New Heavens, New Earth" series or to last year's conversation with Joshua Pappas, you might want to listen to those conversations as well. The post New Heavens and New Earth (Part Two) appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today's Bible study, we explore the biblical phrase, "New heavens and new earth." It may surprise you to learn that the Bible never says Christians are waiting to go to heaven, but it does say we are "waiting for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells" (2 Peter 3:13). This is the first part of a two-part series, so make sure you subscribe to the podcast, so you don't miss the second part of the "new heavens new earth" series. The post New Heavens and New Earth (Part One) appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today’s Bible study, Wes and Travis discuss a listener’s question about obesity, gluttony, and overeating. What does the Bible say on this issue? Is overeating a spiritual issue? How might our relationship with God help us deal with this issue? We hope you find this study and discussion helpful. The post Overeating and Gluttony: What Does the Bible Say About the Way We Eat? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Welcome back to the Radically Christian Bible Study podcast! In the first Bible study of 2020, Wes and Travis discuss a listener’s question about faith, baptism, and salvation. In part, the listener would like to know how to respond to those who believe a person is saved before baptism. Hope you find this conversation helpful and encouraging. The post Saved by Faith: At What Point Are We Saved? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Travis and Wes want to thank you all for listening and participating in these Bible study conversations. This will be the last episode for 2019, but plans are already being made for more Bible studies in 2020. Stay tuned. The post Thank You: The Last Episode of 2019 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today’s Bible study Wes and Travis talk about each individual Christian’s obligation to the local church family. Should we try to be at every church service? Is it wrong to be out of town on the weekends, leaving our church family’s short-handed? What should leaders in small congregations do to encourage participation in church events and gatherings? The post The Congregation: What is Your Responsibility to the Local Church? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today’s Bible study, Wes and Travis discuss Paul’s instructions about hair length and head coverings in 1 Corinthians 11? Should men not have long hair? Should women cover their head in church? Were these simply cultural issues that have no modern application, or are there lessons and principles from 1 Corinthians 11 that still apply today? The post Head Coverings: How Does 1 Corinthians 11 Apply Today? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today's Bible study we answer a voicemail question from Rachel about celebrating religious holidays, like Christmas and Easter. Is there a biblical precedent for celebrating these man-made religious holidays? Should Christians be in favor, opposed, or indifferent to the celebrations? And perhaps, most importantly, how do we treat those with whom we disagree? The post Religious Holidays: Do Christians Have Authority to Celebrate Holidays appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today’s Bible study we discuss what context means, why context is so important, and how to actually consider the context of a passage when studying the Bible. We also discuss the lens through which every passage of the Bible should be read. We hope you enjoy this Bible study. The post Bible in Context: Thoughts on Studying the Bible appeared first on Radically Christian.

In today’s Bible study, we discuss what the New Testament says about singing and why many choose to sing a cappella in the worship assembly. But even more important than “how” we sing, we explore the biblical reasons for “why” we sing. We hope you enjoy this Bible study. The post Singing with the Church: Why I Believe in A cappella Singing appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's Bible study revolves around the issues of justice, racial reconciliation, mercy, and forgiveness. These topics have been top of mind lately after the recent shooting of Botham Jean and the trial of former Dallas police officer, Amber Guyger.  The post Justice and Mercy: How Christians responded to Botham Jean’s Murder appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's Bible Study revolves around an excellent question that was posted in the Radically Christian Facebook community. The question was, "Does the Holy Spirit speak to believers? I am being told by our brethren that the Holy Spirit was only for the apostles and only until the Word was complete. I am having difficulty understanding this. Please help me as I continue to read the Word and prayerfully seek to understand." The post Holy Spirit: How Does the Holy Spirit Speak to Us Today? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today’s Bible study will dig deep on the word, “Gospel.” We talk about Gospel preaching, Gospel singers, the four Gospels, but what does this word “Gospel” actually mean? Is it about how to go to heaven when we die or is it something more? Let’s consider what the whole Bible, both New and Old Testament, has to say on the topic of the Gospel. The post The Gospel: What does “Gospel” mean in the Bible? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today’s Bible study will explore 1 Peter 3:21, where Peter writes, “Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” Before we discuss baptism, we need to know what “save” refers to in the […] The post 1 Peter 3:21: How Does Baptism Save Us? appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today’s Bible study will cover the topic of being “spiritually dead.” What do people mean when they say a person is spiritually dead? Is the idea of being spiritually dead actually found in the Bible? Is there a different way, a more biblical way, to understand passages like Ephesians 2:1, “dead in the trespasses and […] The post Spiritually Dead: Is “Spiritual Death” in the Bible? appeared first on Radically Christian.

There are some big changes coming to the podcast! Instead of the CrossTalk format, in which we typically have an informal conversation about "life and faith," we will start having more in-depth Bible studies on topics and passages about which you're curious. The post Changes to the Podcast – CrossTalk S4E13 appeared first on Radically Christian.

On today's episode, I have an argument with myself about instrumental music in the Old Testament. A few years back, I wrote an article about the use of instrumental music in Old Testament worship, but reading that article today makes me cringe because I have changed a lot since then. Though I still believe it is best for churches to sing a cappella, many of my thoughts and arguments in that article were just wrong. So, on today's episode, I sat down with my old article and argued with myself. The post Music in the Old Testament – CrossTalk S4E12 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's discussion about the Holy Spirit is a conversation I had with my friend Scott Elliott. Scott is doing a series of video interviews, called, "Five Questions." He asked me to be a guest on his series to discuss five questions on the Holy Spirit. He graciously allowed me to share the audio of that conversation with you. The post The Holy Spirit – CrossTalk S4E11 appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does it mean for Jesus to have died for our sins? In this episode, my friend Stephen Scaggs joins me to talk about various "theories" of atonement. In other words, various ways theologians have understood the mechanics of how the blood of Jesus covers the sins of Jesus' people. The post Theories of Atonement – CrossTalk S4E10 appeared first on Radically Christian.

I couldn't ask for a better wife than the one with whom God blessed me. My wife, Hollee McAdams, joins me on the CrossTalk Podcast to talk about marriage. We talk about our marriage specifically, but also marriage in general. Together Hollee and I responded to the following questions and topics, submitted by members of the Radically Christian Community... The post Thoughts on Marriage – CrossTalk S4E9 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today's conversation is different than other conversations on this podcast. I typically have conversations on the show with Christians "about life and faith,"but today's conversation is with my friend Brad Willett, who is not a Christian. In fact, Brad does not believe in God at all. He and I have been talking via email and social media for a couple of years and though we have a very different worldview and disagree with one another on fundamental questions, I am thankful to know him. The post Talking to an Atheist – CrossTalk S4E8 appeared first on Radically Christian.

What are some of the encouraging things happening in churches of Christ throughout the world? Bobby Ross Jr., the Editor-in-Chief at The Christian Chronicle shares his thoughts about some of the things happening in churches of Christ across the nation and the world. If you're not familiar with The Christian Chronicle, it is an international newspaper that reports on new concerning churches of Christ. The post Church of Christ News – CrossTalk S4E7 appeared first on Radically Christian.

If you're a Bible class teacher, a parent, or anyone who wants to share the truth of Scripture with others, have you ever considered how video might be a helpful tool for sharing the story of Scripture? This week I would like to invite you to listen to a conversation I had with two of my friends from Appian Media, Justin Dobbs and Stuart Peck. Appian Media also has a special giveaway exclusively for listeners to this podcast (available for a short time). Just visit AppianMedia.org/crosstalk. The post Teaching Bible with Video – CrossTalk S4E6 appeared first on Radically Christian.

This week's guest is Dean Meadows, the Executive Director of The Daily Apologist. Dean is incredibly passionate about helping young Christians defend their faith. It is important for every Christian to be able to defend what we believe, but it is especially important for young people who are facing a barrage of arguments from secular friends and professors. The post Defending Your Faith – CrossTalk S4E5 appeared first on Radically Christian.

This week's guest is Pamela Maxwell (my younger sister), who was a missionary in both France and Scotland. In this conversation, we visit about why she became a missionary, what she experienced on the mission field, some of the unique challenges she faced when she was a single woman working as a missionary, and more. I hope you are encouraged by this conversation. The post Life as a Missionary – CrossTalk S4E4 appeared first on Radically Christian.

What will happen when Jesus returns? Will the earth, and all material things, cease to exist? That's what I grew up believing. However, I began to realize the Bible speaks of the meek inheriting the earth (Matthew 5:5) and the saved receiving "new heavens and a new earth" (2 Peter 3:13). I didn't know what to do with these passages: will there be a new earth to inherit or no earth to inherit? The post New Heavens New Earth – CrossTalk S4E3 appeared first on Radically Christian.

I don't say this lightly, this will probably be the best thing you listen to all day. In this episode, Iraqi-born Wissam Al-Aethawi shares the story of how he converted from Islam to Christ. He now preaches the gospel to Muslims in Michigan and travels extensively helping Christians understand, love, and share the gospel with their Muslim neighbors. The post Loving Muslim Neighbors – CrossTalk S4E2 appeared first on Radically Christian.

CrossTalk season 4 is finally here! I am so excited to release some of these great conversations I have, so you can be blessed by them as much as I have been! Today's conversation is one I recorded with my friend Scott Elliott, who preaches in La Grange, Texas. I've entitled this episode, "Movies Christians Watch." The post Movies Christians Watch – CrossTalk S4E1 appeared first on Radically Christian.

On today’s episode I had the opportunity to visit over the phone with two members of the Appian Media team. Appian Media is a non-profit organization for which I am incredibly thankful. They are Christians who create amazing documentary-style videos that help viewers experience various places in Israel, and the biblical accounts that happened there. […] The post Exploring Israel to Understand the Bible – CrossTalk S3E21 appeared first on Radically Christian.

With the recent passing of a new abortion law in New York, my Facebook feed has been full of discussions about abortion. I’m always thankful when I see Christians stand up in defense of human life. However, I am often saddened by some of the angry and almost hateful ways I see Christians lashing out against pro-choice supporters and law-makers. So I posted a plea for Christians to voice the truth lovingly and reasonably. The post How Christians Talk About Abortion – CrossTalk S3E20 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today’s guest is Sam Dominguez, my former co-host. Today you’ll get a chance to hear Sam and I discuss the concept of eternity. What is eternity like? Can we wrap our minds around it? Should we even try to think of "eternity" as a really long time? Should we think of it as a time when "time" no longer exists. Is this even something the Bible discusses? What does the Bible mean when it says "eternal." Those are some of the questions we explore? The post What is Eternity Like? – CrossTalk S3E19 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today I would like to invite you to listen to a conversation I had with my friend, Bill Adkins. Bill and his wife Linda have a wonderful story about how they chose to help a young single mom and her 4-year-old daughter. That was nearly 15 years ago and both mother and daughter are still an important part of their life. Not only is this story worth sharing in its own right, but it led to a great conversation about how Christians can think outside the box when reaching out to help people in our community. I hope this story encourages and inspires you as much as it did me. The post Reaching Out to People in Need – CrossTalk S3E18 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today I would like to invite you to listen to a conversation I had with my friend, Caleb Cochran. This is a conversation about suffering with various types of anxiety. Caleb isn’t a psychiatrist or medical professional, he’s an evangelist for the church in Rockville, Maryland and he is personally suffered with anxiety, so he has a heart for ministering to others who suffer in this way. Whether or not you personally deal with anxiety, you likely know someone who does. So  this is a relevant discussion for us all. The post Christians Dealing with Anxiety – CrossTalk S3E17 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Today I would like to invite you to listen to a conversation I recently had with two of my friends and co-workers, Rosalyn Miller and Mikie Kindsfather. These wonderful Christian ladies work as the children’s education coordinators here at the church of Christ on McDermott Road. They have so many wonderful thoughts to share about the importance of children’s Bible classes, some practical thoughts on how to make Bible classes what they should be, and even what kids can gain from being in the worship assembly with adults. I hope you find this conversation helpful and encouraging. The post Teaching Children the Bible – CrossTalk S3E16 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Let me say before I introduce today’s conversation that the subject matter is for mature audiences only and may not be suitable for children. My guest today is my new friend, Clint. He and I began corresponding recently via email about how the church should minister to those who identify as LGBTQ. Because Clint also struggles with same sex attraction and because in the past he lived a gay lifestyle, he has a unique perspective. In this conversation, we discussed whether or not Christians should embrace an LGBTQ identity, his thoughts on how parents should respond if their children reveal they experience same sex attraction, and his encouragement to young Christians who are themselves dealing with this struggle. This is a sensitive subject with which every Christian needs to be familiar. I hope this conversation leads to other healthy conversations about this topic. The post Struggling with Same Sex Attraction – CrossTalk S3E15 appeared first on Radically Christian.

My guest today is my friend, Brandon Edwards, who just helped launch the first private social network for churches of Christ. It is called, "Aggos." Regardless of your religious background, I think you will find this conversation interesting. Brandon is a brilliant guy and he is constantly trying to find new ways to bring Christians together and reach the lost with the Good News. I hope you enjoy this conversation. Be sure to check out Aggos.com. The post Church of Christ Social Network – CrossTalk S3E14 appeared first on Radically Christian.

My guest today is my my very good friend, Michael Monday. In this conversation we discussed our identity as Christians and building real relationships with our church family. What does it mean to be part of the family of God and are we really enjoying the blessings of being part of that family? I think you will be challenged and encouraged by this discussion. The post Christian Identity Crisis – CrossTalk S3E13 appeared first on Radically Christian.

My guest today is my friend and co-worker, Barrett Bingham. He is a high school minister, a podcaster, and an occasional stand-up comedian. He co-hosts a podcast with another member at McDermott Road called, "Off the Rails." Barrett is a lot of fun and during this conversation, we talked about why we should make room for a sense of humor in the church. There are quite a few laughs along the way, but Barrett also has a lot of very insightful things to share about faith and emotion. I believe you will really be blessed by this conversation. The post Making Room for Humor in the Church – CrossTalk S3E12 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes and Dan Chambers recently had a phone conversation and discussed the role of women in the church and how various passages of Scripture are interpreted by people on both sides of the arguments. If you are interested or concerned about this issue, I think you will find this conversation helpful. Some of the passages discussed in this episode are 1 Timothy 2:9-15; 1 Corinthians 11:2-26; 1 Corinthians 14:26-40. The post Women in the Church – CrossTalk S3E11 appeared first on Radically Christian.

You might be surprised to know that the Bible does not teach that the body is just a vehicle for the spirit. Human beings are not, as some have suggested, "a spirit with a body." Listen as Wes and his friend Jacob Rutledge, who preaches for the Dripping Springs Church of Christ, discuss what the Bible actually teaches concerning the importance of the human body and how the body will be "redeemed" in the resurrection. The apostle Paul wrote that we wait eagerly, "for the redemption of our bodies" (Romans 8:23). We hope you find this conversation encouraging. The post Redeeming the Human Body – CrossTalk S3E10 appeared first on Radically Christian.

On this week’s episode, listen to a conversation Wes had with Jacob Rutledge, who preaches for the Dripping Springs Church of Christ in Dripping Springs, Texas. Jacob and Wes discuss their thoughts on how Christians should use social media. If you use social media like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram then I think this conversation will give you some things to think about. Social media certainly has positive uses and has a tremendous amount of potential, but it's also possible to do damage to the cause of Christ through social media.  The post How Christians Should Use Social Media – CrossTalk S3E9 appeared first on Radically Christian.

On this week’s episode, listen to a conversation Wes had with Curtis Hartshorn, who preaches for the church of Christ in Checotah, Oklahoma and is the author of the book, “My First 52 Days.” This book is designed to help guide new Christians during the first few weeks after they are baptized. Curtis has a heart to share the gospel and to help new Christians mature in the faith. I know you will be encouraged by our conversation. And if you are interested in getting a copy of his book visit Yeoman Press or email Curtis directly. You can find his email address near the end of this episode. The post How to Teach and Encourage New Christians – CrossTalk S3E8 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode, Wes visits with Matt Mead and Kyle Beard. Matt is the Family Life Minister and Kyle is the Middle School Minister here at the church of Christ on McDermott Road. The conversation we had was about teenagers and their theology. What do teenagers today think about God, the church, the Bible, and living the Christian life. Matt and Kyle, along with the rest of our youth family ministry team, do a tremendous job. I think you will gain a lot of insight from this conversation. The post What Teens Think About God and the Church – CrossTalk S3E7 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode, I have a conversation about Christian parenting with one of the elders at McDermott Road, Tom Ward, and his son, Jake. We discuss how Tom dealt with conversations about God and science, how the church plays a huge role in shaping young people, and how sincerity is more important than perfection. I hope you find this conversation encouraging. The post Raising Kids to Follow Jesus – CrossTalk S3E6 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Summary: Listen to the conversation I had with my good friends, Reggie Hutchings and James Sumners (on the phone). These men share their thoughts with me on how the Lord has transformed their lives and how He is still in the process of transforming their lives. We discuss what sorts of things stand in the […] The post Experience Spiritual Transformation – CrossTalk S3E5 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Summary: In the conversation you’re about to hear, I visited with two new friends, Belinda Phillips and Lee Ann Kemp. These ladies have their own website and podcast. You can check it out at TheBibleandCoffee.com. In this conversation we talk about their mission to help other women understand and embrace the grace of God. I […] The post Women and Grace – CrossTalk S3E4 appeared first on Radically Christian.

According to International Justice Mission there are over 40,000,000 slaves globally. I want you to hear a conversation I had with my friend, Brandon Edwards. Brandon has lived in various countries around the world and has seen oppression and injustice up-close and personal. He has spent time with victims, perpetrators, and heroes who are actively working to stop human trafficking and slavery. I’ll warn you, this is a challenging conversation, but it’s an incredibly important one. The post Modern Slavery and the Mission of the Church – S3E3 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Summary: In this episode, issues are discussed like, why are there “white churches” and “black churches,” why do we struggle to discuss issues about race with our brothers and sisters in Christ, and what can we do to start seeing things from other people’s perspectives. Wes had this conversation with two of his friends, Haven […] The post Race and the Church – CrossTalk S3E2 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the Radically Christian CrossTalk Podcast, Wes and his wife, Hollee, talk about being a ministry family. For the last thirteen years, since the day they were married, they have worked together in various ministry roles. Listen as they discuss some of the challenges and blessings of being married and raising kids while working in full-time ministry.  The post Married to the Preacher – CrossTalk S3E1 appeared first on Radically Christian.

This is the 50th episode of the CrossTalk Podcast and the final episode of our second season. The discussion on this episode revolves around why the goal of the CrossTalk Podcast is to inspire others to have spiritual conversations. This episode is unique because it was recorded while doing a Facebook Live broadcast, so you will hear Cameron McElyea reading some of the Facebook comments and questions so that Wes, Sam, and James could respond live. We hope you find this episode edifying. The post Having Spiritual Conversations (Recorded Live) – CrossTalk S2E26 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode we are joined by Charles Goodnight, who serves as a hospice chaplain and the leader of a grief support group at Baker Heights church of Christ. We discussed how to deal with grief, how being a Christian helps one deal with grief, and how Christians can help one another deal with grief. We hope you're edified by this discussion. The post Dealing with Grief – CrossTalk S2E25 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast we discuss how far too many people approach the church as consumers, asking, "How will the church minister to my needs," rather than as a community member who asks, "How can I help minister to the needs of others?" We discussed how our evangelism methods sometimes tend to create Christians who have no idea that God requires us to do hard things and sacrifice for the good of others and the glory of God. We hope this discussion will be edifying to you. The post Why Christians Must Sacrifice to Help One Another – CrossTalk S2E24 appeared first on Radically Christian.

On today's episode we discuss why it was easier for the Jew to understand and accept the gospel and why the gospel went first to the Jews, but why the Jews had to become Christians in order for them to be God's covenant people. Many still do not understand that God's covenant with the Jews was fulfilled and in order to be one of God's covenant people, you must be submit to Jesus. Jewish heritage, like circumcision, does not make a person part of God's covenant people. Those are a few of the things we discuss on this episode. We hope you find this discussion edifying. The post Why Jews Have to Become Christians to be God’s People – CrossTalk S2E23 appeared first on Radically Christian.

What does it mean that we are under grace and not the Law? How can we live obediently if we are not under the Law? Should we still fear God, or does loving God cast out our fear of God? These are some of the issues we discussed on this week's episode. The post Living Obediently Without Being Under the Law – CrossTalk S2E22 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes was recently invited to join Presbyterian minister, Randy Booth on the Moody Radio program, "Up For Debate" to discuss the issue of infant baptism. So in this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes, Sam, and James discussed some of the points of that debate. The discussion of debating baptism led to a more in-depth discussion about disagreements in general. How ought we to disagree with one another? What ought to be the goal of our disagreements? Those are some of things we covered in this discussion and we hope it proves edifying to you. The post Disagreeing About Baptism and Other Issues – CrossTalk S2E21 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes, James, and Sam discuss the "Day of Judgment" or the "Day of the Lord." To what does this refer? How should we think about the coming judgment? We hope you find this discussion edifying. The post The Day of Judgment – CrossTalk S2E20 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes McAdams, Sam Dominguez, and James Sumners discuss the fact that we often struggle with being more concerned about earthly politics than about things pertaining to the eternal kingdom of God. Why is it that we often ascribe greater importance to earthly things than they are actually due? Why is it that we don't pay attention to the things of the kingdom as we should? These are some of the things discussed in this episode. We hope you find it edifying. The post More Concerned with Politics than the Kingdom of God – CrossTalk S2E19 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode, Wes, Sam, and James discuss how we should apply Romans 14. How can we, as Christians, have unity in spite of our differences? What does it mean to be the weaker brother or the stronger brother? What are "disputable matters" or "matters of opinion" that Paul was discussing in Romans 14. These are a few of the things discussed in this episode. We hope you find this discussion edifying. The post How to Have Unity in Spite of Our Differences – CrossTalk S2E18 appeared first on Radically Christian.

This week the CrossTalk crew has the week off and our wives take to the microphones. Hollee McAdams, Tonya McElyea, Shayla Sumners, and Arly Dominguez talk about how they make time to study the Bible with their busy schedules. We hope you find this discussion edifying. The post How Busy Moms Make Time to Study the Bible – CrossTalk S2E17 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes, Sam, and James discuss the topic of singing songs of praise to God. What is singing all about? What are some of the common pitfalls we should avoid? What does it mean to sing with your heart? These are some of the things discussed on this week's episode. We hope you find it edifying. The post Why Christians Need to Have a Song in Their Heart – CrossTalk S2E16 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, we are joined by special guest co-hosts, Ron McElyea and Jason Hinkle. The discussion this week revolves around building friendships with those who are not your age. Why do older Christians and younger Christians struggle to build relationships with one another? How can we overcome these generational barriers in the church? Why is it important for us build these intergenerational friendships? The post Building Friendships With Those Who Are Not Your Age – CrossTalk S2E15 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes, Sam, and James discuss the question, "What made the Bereans so noble?" In Acts 17:11, we read, "Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so." We have often focused all of our attention on the Bereans' examining of the Scripture and have applied this passage in such a way that we often applaud those who are skeptical and close-minded toward teachers. However, in context, it seems there is much more to the Bereans' nobility than just their examining of the Scriptures. The post What Made the Bereans So Noble? – CrossTalk S2E14 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes and two of the new elders at Baker Heights church of Christ, Zane Dennis and Wayne Newman, discuss "becoming an elder." These men have only been elders for a short time and in this podcast episode they discuss their thoughts about accepting the responsibility of serving as elders, what has surprised them so far, and how congregations can be intentional about preparing men to serve as elders. The post A Discussion About Becoming an Elder – CrossTalk S2E13 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes McAdams, James Sumners, and Sam Dominguez discuss the church. Do we really need the church? What if the church isn't being what the church should be? Does the church have anything do with our salvation? These are a few of the things discussed on this week's episode. We hope you find it edifying. The post Why the Church is Essential to the Christian Life – CrossTalk S2E12 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Are we more like Judas than we would like to admit? That's the real question discussed on this week's episode of the CrossTalk podcast. Listen as Wes, Sam, and James discuss Jesus' betrayer, what motivated him, and how he got to the point where he could sell out the Son of God. Could we be capable - or even guilty - of sinning in a similar way? We hope this discussion is edifying. The post Are We More Like Judas Than We’d Like to Admit? – CrossTalk S2E11 appeared first on Radically Christian.

The story of Jonah and the big fish - or whale - is one of the most popular stories we teach to children, but it is so much more than just a children's Bible story. The story of Jonah teaches us so much about God's nature and character. It has powerful lessons to learn about racism and even evangelism. Yet we all too often water it down and miss the big points of this powerful biblical account. Listen as Wes and James continue the "Not a Children's Bible Story" series. The post Why Jonah is Not a Children’s Bible Story – CrossTalk S2E10 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes, Sam, and James discuss the biblical account of David and Goliath. What is the story really about? Why is it that we relegate it to the "children's corner" as merely a children's Bible story. Listen as the guys discuss this very familiar story in (perhaps) a whole new way. The post Why David & Goliath is Not a Children’s Bible Story – CrossTalk S2E9 appeared first on Radically Christian.

Join Wes, Sam, and James as they continue their series, "Not A Children's Bible Story," by talking about Noah and the Ark. Why is the account of Noah and the ark relegated to the "children's corner"? What can mature disciples of Christ learn from this story? It can teach us so much about God, judgement, grace, mercy, and so much more. We hope you are edified by this discussion. The post Why Noah’s Ark is Not a Children’s Bible Story – CrossTalk S2E8 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes talks with his co-hosts, James Sumners, and Sam Dominguez about the story of Zacchaeus from Luke 19. What--beyond "Zacchaeus was a wee little man"--do we need to understand about this event? What does Zacchaeus teach us about following Jesus? The post Not a Children’s Bible Story: Zacchaeus – CrossTalk S2E7 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes, Sam, and James continue their "not a children's Bible story" series by discussing the parable of the Prodigal son. What lesson was Jesus really teaching? How have we over-simplified for children? What points do we need to reconsider as it pertains to this parable? We hope this is an encouraging conversation. The post Not a Children’s Bible Story: The Prodigal Son – CrossTalk S2E6 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, we continue our "not a children's Bible story," in which we discuss Bible stories that we typically water down in order to teach to children. Unfortunately, in doing so we often miss the primary point of the passage of Scripture. In today's episode, Wes, Sam, and James discuss the parable typically referred to as "The Good Samaritan" and discover why it's not just a Children's Bible story. The post Not a Children’s Bible Story: Good Samaritan – CrossTalk S2E5 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, we begin a new series in which we discuss some passages of Scripture that we tend to think of as "Children's Bible Stories," but have far deeper meanings and applications than we often realize because we tend to only see them as they were presented to us as children. In this episode, Wes, Sam, and James discuss Jesus healing ten lepers and how their perspective on this passage of Scripture has changed now that they are adults. The post Not a Children’s Bible Story: Jesus Heals 10 Lepers – CrossTalk S2E4 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes, Sam, and James discuss some right and wrong ways to listen to sermons and Bible classes. It is easy to develop some unhealthy habits in this area of our lives. What is your goal when you attend a Bible class or listen to a sermon? Do you listen in a way that is glorifying to God? We hope this discussion is edifying to you. The post Right and Wrong Ways to Listen to a Sermon – CrossTalk S2E3 appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, James, Wes, and Sam discuss the fact that we often quote Scripture and state theological truths, but our lives don't always reflect that we really believe those things. As Sam poses the hypothetical question at the beginning of the episode, "If that were true, wouldn't this part of your life be different?" We hope this spiritual discussion among friends helps encourage you to have these types of conversations with Christians in your life. The post Do Our Lives Reflect What We Say We Believe? – CrossTalk S2E2 appeared first on Radically Christian.

We say we believe the truths of Scripture. Truths like, "To live is Christ and to die is gain," but do we really believe that? Do we live as if that statement is true? Or do we live like this world is far better and that it would be better to continue in this life indefinitely? Sam, James, and Wes consider this question in this episode of the CrossTalk Podcast. We hope you find this discussion edifying. The post Do We Really Believe, ‘To Die is Gain’? – CrossTalk S2E1 appeared first on Radically Christian.

This discussion was sparked by a wonderful voicemail we received from one of our listeners. Here are some of the ideas and questions we discuss on this week's episode: How does God discipline us? Why does God discipline us? When we suffer, should we see that as God discipling us? When we suffer, should we take that to mean that God thinks we're strong enough to handle it. Does God send suffering on specific people? Is that what the Bible means when it talks about the discipline of the Lord? The post Episode #24 – How Does the Lord Discipline Us? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Sam, James, and Wes discuss questions like: What kind of work are Christians obligated to do? Should we do what we enjoy doing? Should we do what we are "gifted" or "talented" at doing? What does God expect of us? What is the right perspective to have about the work we do for the Lord? The post Episode #23 – The Work Christians Should Be Doing appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode, the guys discuss humor and the place it has in the life of a Christian. Why did God give us a sense of humor? Why is it that some people seem to only find humor in things that are sinful? Should Christians ever be silly? Does silliness have a place in the life of Christians? Give some thought to the things discussed in this episode. The post Episode #22 – Humor in the Life of a Christian appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Sam Dominguez, James Sumners, and Wes McAdams discuss sin: why we sometimes fail to get rid of it completely and why we need to get serious about dealing with it. Often what we say is our "struggle" has become our "habit" or "practice." We often fail to realize the urgency of fully repenting of our sins. When we try to maintain one foot in Christ and one foot in the world, we miss out on so many wonderful blessings; including eternity in heaven. We hope this episode is edifying for all of our listeners. The post Episode #21 – Why We Need to Get Serious About Our Sin appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Sam, Wes, and James discuss why we have a tendency to distrust our church leaders. Why is that we trust church leaders until it comes to issues of money or until we disagree with them? Why do we often question their motives when it comes to certain issues? Should we trust people automatically or do they have to earn our trust? These are a few of the things discussed in this week's episode of CrossTalk. The post Episode #20 – Trusting Our Church Leaders appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Sam Dominguez, James Sumners, and Wes McAdams discuss "pride." Is it ever right to feel proud? What about the way we feel about our children, aren't we proud of them? What about when our children make a good choice and do the right thing, can we be proud of them? Why do we feel pride if it is always wrong? These are a few of the things discussed on this week's podcast. The post Episode #19 – Is it ever right to be proud? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Sam Dominguez, James Sumners, and Wes McAdams discuss why it feels so strange for someone to say, "I forgive you." Why does it sound so condescending, or like the person is blowing things out of proportion, when he or she says that they "forgive" the other person? Sam, James, and Wes have a spirited discussion about why apologizing is not the most important part of this process. We hope you are edified by this discussion. The post Episode #18 – A Discussion About Christian Apologies and Forgiveness appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Sam Dominguez and Wes McAdams discuss how they feel when they've done poorly teaching and preaching God's word. Why do we feel bad when we've preached and taught poorly? What can help us cope with these feelings while at the same time striving to preach and teach better? This discussion will helpful for anyone who teaches or preaches, but also all Christians. The post Episode #17 – When Preachers and Teachers Do Poorly appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, James Sumners and Wes McAdams discuss parenting, especially as it pertains to young children. Often, parents of young children allow their young kids to keep them from attending worship services or other church events like weddings, funerals, gospel meetings, etc. How should parents deal with these types of situations? The post Episode #16 – Parenting Young Children in the Church appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes, Sam, and James discuss why we need to do a better job at appreciating the spiritual value and benefits of sorrow. Too often, we quickly try to sweep sorrow under the rug, when we should actually allow ourselves the time to be sad, to weep, and to mourn. The post Episode #15 – The Spiritual Benefit of Sorrow appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes, Sam, and James consider our preoccupation with the "aesthetics" of Christian worship. Why do some of us have to have things look and feel a certain way in order to feel like we have worshiped? Why are we so concerned with the look and feel of our religion and our worship? The post Episode #14 – Considering the Look and Feel of our Religion appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Wes, Sam, and James are joined by special guest Fred Dominguez, the preacher for the church of Christ in Pecos, Texas. They discuss some of the positive and negative aspects of being a Christian in the age of social media. What are some of the pitfalls of Facebook and Twitter, and what are some of the ways Christians can use these social networks for God's glory? The post Episode #13 – Christianity and Ministry in the Age of Social Media appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Luke Bower and Wes McAdams discuss children's Bible classes. Are we thinking about Bible classes the right way? Is there a better way of doing Bible classes? Who should teach children in Bible classes, what should they focus on, and how should they teach? These are some of the things discussed in this week's show. The post Episode #12 – Rethinking How We Do Children’s Bible Classes appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Sam Dominguez, James Sumners, and Wes McAdams discuss the question, "Should we be loyal to a particular congregation?" When we have conflicts in the church, is it pleasing to God for us to move to another congregation? How can we keep from being "church-hoppers"? The post Episode #11 – Should We Be Loyal to a Particular Congregation? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Sam Dominguez, James Sumners, and Wes McAdams discuss obeying God. What motivates our obedience to God? Do we really enjoy obeying? Do we really want to obey? Our obedience should come from the "overflow." Is that what motivates your obedience? The post Episode #10 – Do We Really Enjoy Obeying God? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Shayla Sumners, Tonya McElyea, Arly Dominguez, and Hollee McAdams discuss some of the benefits and struggles they've experienced building and maintaining friendships with other Christian women. The post Episode #9 – Christian Friendships Among Women appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast, Mike Bonner, Sam Dominguez, James Sumners, and Wes talk about the Christian's obligation to the poor and those in need in various ways. What is the Christian's obligation in regards to benevolence, generosity, charity, and giving? What does God expect? What should motivate our generosity? Are we really bringing glory to God by the way we share with those in need? The post Episode #8 – What is the Christian’s Obligation to the Poor? appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of the CrossTalk podcast Wes, Sam, and James discuss what it really means to put God first. How can you know if you're putting God first? Is it a matter of priorities? Is it a matter of balance? This discussion might surprise you. The post Episode #7 – Putting God First appeared first on Radically Christian.

Wes, Sam, and James discuss a recent voicemail that was left concerning "the silence of the Scriptures." When we believe God's word says nothing on a particular activity or behavior does it give us permission to precede as we wish or is silence prohibitive? The post Episode #6 – Silence of the Scriptures [Podcast] appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode of CrossTalk, Wes McAdams and Ron McElyea, one of the elders at Baker Heights church of Christ, discuss what Christian repentance is all about. What does it mean to repent? Is repentance a one-time thing? Why do we struggle so much with repentance? The post CrossTalk Episode 005 – Repentance [Podcast] appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode Wes and Sam talk with Mike Bonner, the preacher for the Fifth and Grape congregation in Abilene about Paul's instructions to follow him as he followed Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1). How could Paul make such a bold statement. Should Christians today make the same statement? Can we really say to someone, "Follow me as I follow Christ"? Does that mean we think we're perfect? The post CrossTalk Episode 004 – Follow Me As I Follow Christ [Podcast] appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode Wes, Sam, and James discuss the Christian's conscience. What is our conscience? Do we all have one? How come some people have a guilty conscience about certain behaviors and other people don't? Should we really listen to our conscience? The post CrossTalk Episode 003 – The Christian’s Conscience [Podcast] appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode Wes McAdams, Sam Dominguez, and James Sumners discuss a blog post by Fred Dominguez entitled, "A Ransacked Bible." What does it mean to "ransack" the Bible and why should more people be doing exactly that? The post CrossTalk Episode 002 – Ransacking the Bible [Podcast] appeared first on Radically Christian.

In this episode Wes McAdams, Sam Dominguez, and James Sumners discuss how they sometimes feel jealous of other Christians for reasons such as: Greater Bible knowledge, parenting success, teaching and preaching skills, etc. The post CrossTalk Episode 001 – Spiritual Jealousy [Podcast] appeared first on Radically Christian.