In this episode we delve into discipleship. The discussion begins by addressing a listener's question regarding loneliness and social anxiety, where Ronnie emphasizes how certain struggles choose us and the importance of fighting against them with faith and practical steps. The podcast then transitions into an in-depth conversation about discipleship, contrasting it with mere church membership or Christian identity. Ronnie shares his experiences and the evolution of his understanding of being a disciple, stressing the importance of following Jesus' teachings, bearing fruit, and investing in personal relationships within the church. The episode concludes with insights on maintaining humility and avoiding legalism while being a committed disciple of Christ.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:16 Listener Question on Loneliness
01:36 Addressing Social Anxiety
05:53 Counseling and Overcoming Social Anxiety
09:01 Dealing with Past Hurts in Relationships
09:44 The Concept of Sin and Modern Society
11:03 Forgiveness and Resentment
13:59 Introduction to Discipleship
14:42 Personal Journey and Church Experience
22:05 The Cost of Discipleship
38:45 Defining Discipleship vs. Being a Christian
49:59 Identifying Marks of Disciples
01:00:39 Understanding Generational Differences
01:00:53 Bearing Fruit in Life and Faith
01:05:16 The Role of Love in Discipleship
01:08:13 Making and Maturing Disciples
01:10:28 Challenges in Modern Christianity
01:11:01 Historical Context of Early Christianity
01:18:29 Institutionalization of the Church
01:29:37 The Importance of Personal Discipleship
01:48:54 Balancing Devotion and Avoiding Legalism
01:54:40 The Essence of True Discipleship
02:00:18 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Do you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes? Email any or all one the following:

• william@ctfwylie.org
• jvr@goddeal.com
• rw@goddeal.com

This episode follows the previous episode about anxiety and depression, please listen to the previous episode first if you haven't already. This week's discussion touches on the importance of Christian community support, the role of interpersonal relationships, and practical strategies like light therapy and appropriate use of medication. Further, it contrasts Christian approaches with secular ones and discusses the trend of self-medicating with intoxicants. The discussion also highlights resources like counseling and support groups, emphasizing the critical nature of community and faith-based support systems.

00:00 Introduction and Sensitive Topics Disclaimer
00:39 Welcome Back and Bumper Sticker Giveaway
03:09 Listener Questions and Family Faith Dynamics
04:17 Navigating Family Faith Differences
09:41 Jesus' Teachings and Family Conflicts
18:13 Personal Experiences with Anxiety and Depression
18:33 Addressing Mental Health and Trigger Warnings
32:37 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact
43:35 Addressing Misconceptions About Same-Sex Attraction
44:07 Biblical Teachings on Anxiety
46:41 The Role of Processes in Business and Church
48:14 Personal Struggles and Seeking Help
51:35 Coping with Anxiety and Depression
01:04:57 The Importance of Balanced Friendships
01:12:40 Christian vs. Secular Approaches to Mental Health
01:34:26 The Media's Influence and Christian Traditions
01:35:12 Growing Old Gracefully
01:36:18 Living Life Out Loud
01:36:58 Contentment in All Circumstances
01:46:22 The Power of Community
01:56:58 Practical Advice for Dealing with Depression and Anxiety
02:10:26 Closing Thoughts and Poem

Do you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes? Email any or all one the following:

• william@ctfwylie.org
• jvr@goddeal.com
• rw@goddeal.com

William Royal and John Von Runnen have an in-depth discussion with Ronnie Worsham on the pressing topics of anxiety and depression. The conversation touches on personal experiences, pastoral counseling insights, and the societal factors fueling these issues. Ronnie shares his own lifelong struggles with depression, offers therapeutic advice, and emphasizes the importance of faith and community in dealing with mental health challenges.

00:00 Welcome and Introductions
01:17 Discussing Listener Questions
02:14 Introducing the Topic: Anxiety and Depression
04:35 Ronnie's Insights and Personal Experience
07:50 Defining Anxiety and Depression
08:56 The Interconnectedness of Mind and Body
10:11 Clinical Definitions and Personal Reflections
13:11 Depression and Its Impact
32:48 Anxiety: Symptoms and Responses
39:23 Overlapping of Anxiety and Depression
46:06 Practical Advice for Helping Others
47:36 Approaching Suicidal Ideation
48:38 Providing Comfort and Security
49:58 The Role of Counselors and Emergency Response
53:47 The Rise of Depression and Anxiety
58:13 Social Media's Impact on Mental Health
01:04:46 Reality Therapy and Its Benefits
01:17:32 Generational Sin and Its Effects
01:29:33 The Fallacy of Sin and Redemption
01:32:42 Challenging Modern Beliefs
01:34:47 The Therapeutic Community of the Church
01:38:53 Personal Reflections on Depression
01:41:19 The Impact of Family Dynamics
01:44:33 Struggles and Coping Mechanisms
01:59:51 Finding Faith and Purpose
02:03:30 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

Do you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes? Email any or all one the following:

• william@ctfwylie.org
• jvr@goddeal.com
• rw@goddeal.com

William and Ronnie delve into the complexities of nurturing and growing a relationship with God. To start off, Ronnie addresses a listener's question about balancing one's identity as a disciple with other significant life roles. The discussion extends to the importance of spiritual disciplines, community, personal experiences, and how encountering God's love manifests through everyday relationships and actions. The episode closes with a heartfelt song and prayer, reaffirming that our ultimate hope, joy, and peace come from God.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

01:24 Listener Question: Balancing Identities

03:23 The Role of Identity in Christianity

07:10 Fatherhood and Spiritual Leadership

18:40 The Importance of Baptism

19:48 Understanding Salvation and Relationship with God

52:11 Experiencing God's Love and Community

01:02:32 Experiencing God's Glory

01:04:14 Spiritual Disciplines Purpose

01:06:36 The Role of Discipline in Faith

01:28:44 The Importance of Community

01:37:52 Overcoming Obstacles in Faith

01:44:42 Final Reflections and Encouragement

Do you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes? Email any or all one the following:

• william@ctfwylie.org
• jvr@goddeal.com
• rw@goddeal.com

In this week's conversation, John, William, and Ronnie discuss what it means to truly have a relationship with God. Drawing on Scripture, personal stories, and years of ministry experience, they explore how faith matures over time, how to build unity in the church, and how to navigate challenges in discipleship. This episode encourages listeners to reflect on their own walk with God and how to engage meaningfully with others in their community.

[00:00] - Welcome and Setting the Stage

The hosts kick off the episode with introductions and humor, sharing the focus of the conversation: the personal journey of knowing God.

[00:52] - Understanding Church Divisions

A listener question sparks a dive into why church splits often happen. Ronnie examines biblical unity and why divisions are sometimes inevitable.

[20:00] - Dealing with Conflict in the Church

The hosts discuss how leaders can recognize and address divisive behaviors early, using Scripture and relationships to maintain unity in the body of Christ.

[40:00] - Safeguarding the Flock

Practical tips for protecting a church community, from vetting leaders to creating a culture that prioritizes accountability and spiritual growth.

[1:00:00] - Focusing on the One

Drawing inspiration from Jesus’ parable of the lost sheep, the conversation shifts to the value of investing in individuals and being intentional in discipleship.

[1:20:00] - Maturing in Faith Through Life Stages

William and John reflect on their journeys of faith, sharing how their relationships with God have evolved from childhood to adulthood.

[1:40:00] - Trusting God in Difficult Seasons

The group discusses how faith can sustain us through life’s struggles, offering encouragement to listeners facing challenges.

[2:00:00] - Staying Centered on Jesus

Ronnie shares final thoughts on the importance of staying Christ-centered in ministry and relationships, highlighting the enduring value of faith, hope, and love.

[2:15:00] - Wrapping Up and Reflection

The episode closes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to evaluate their personal walks with God and to live out their faith intentionally.

Reflection Questions:

1. How has your relationship with God changed through different seasons of your life?

2. Are you prioritizing relationships and discipleship in your church community?

3. What steps can you take to trust God more deeply during life’s challenges?

Do you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes? Email any or all one the following:

• william@ctfwylie.org
• jvr@goddeal.com
• rw@goddeal.com

In this episode Ronnie, John, and William discuss the topic of loneliness, somewhat initiated by an article from Christianity Today. John starts the conversation, highlighting recent discussions among church leaders about the increasing prevalence of loneliness. Ronnie shares his foundational notes, emphasizing the need for balanced emotional health, community, and a strong relationship with God. The episode touches on the effects of loneliness, the role of social media, and practical steps to build meaningful relationships within church communities. The conversation also delves into personal experiences, pastoral care, and the importance of mutual vulnerability in fostering deep connections.

00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview
00:48 The Rising Concern of Loneliness
03:22 Personal Reflections on Loneliness
04:18 Understanding Loneliness: Emotions and Psychology
07:03 Loneliness in Modern Society
10:21 Historical and Cultural Perspectives on Loneliness
13:27 Personal Stories and Experiences
26:19 The Impact of Loneliness on Health
31:11 Loneliness and Spirituality
45:27 Social Media and Loneliness
52:54 The Impact of Capitalism on Self-Worth
53:30 The College Experience: Expectations vs. Reality
54:41 Devaluation of Older Adults in Society
56:41 Loneliness Among Immigrants
58:02 The Importance of Caring and Agape Love
01:00:15 Chaos in the Church and Society
01:02:44 The Power of Community and Relationships
01:07:54 Personal Reflections on Faith and Support
01:17:11 The Disconnect of Social Media and Real Connection
01:28:49 The Importance of Community in Mitigating Loneliness
01:40:39 The Power of Fellowship
01:41:26 Ownership of the Church Body
01:45:13 Building a Strong Foundation
01:56:17 Practical Steps to Combat Loneliness
02:06:14 The Importance of One-on-One Relationships
02:12:45 Balancing Life and Building Community
02:28:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Do you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes? Email any or all one the following:

• william@ctfwylie.org
• jvr@goddeal.com
• rw@goddeal.com

Ronnie, John, and William have a discussion on handling conflict, a universal experience. The discussion begins with listener questions, highlighting themes of empathy, deep care for others, and the challenges of loving difficult people. Ronnie addresses various types of conflict, especially within marriages, families, churches, workplaces, and communities. He outlines different conflict management approaches and emphasizes the importance of prayer, honest self-reflection, and practical strategies for resolving disputes. The episode underscores the need for peacemaking as a core Christian value, rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the imperative to love and serve others selflessly. Concluding with the significance of bringing Jesus into conflicts and seeking unity through understanding and humility, these conversations provide valuable guidance for fostering harmony in all aspects of life.

00:00 Introduction and Listener Engagement
02:27 Ronnie's Journey of Empathy and Love
22:57 Understanding Conflict and Its Roots
24:56 Conflict in the Church and Society
30:16 Unity and Division in Christianity
38:43 Fundamentalism and Misinterpretation of Scripture
47:22 The Call for Unity and Peace
49:55 Managing Conflict with Loved Ones
52:06 The Importance of Heart Posture
56:42 Unity in the Church
58:03 Conflict in Everyday Life
01:10:21 Approaches to Conflict Resolution
01:13:47 Creating Win-Win Scenarios
01:21:38 Conflict in Marriage
01:27:58 The Role of Servanthood in Conflict
01:34:05 The Importance of Truth and Honesty
01:34:21 Mentorship and Friendship in Discipleship
01:35:18 A Personal Anecdote: Basketball Conflict
01:40:09 Scriptural Guidance on Conflict Resolution
01:47:39 The Dangers of Avoiding Conflict
01:56:54 The Role of Peacemakers
02:08:39 When to End a Friendship
02:12:25 Closing Thoughts and Hymn

Do you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes? Email any or all one the following:

• william@ctfwylie.org
• jvr@goddeal.com
• rw@goddeal.com

In this episode Ronnie, John, and William engage in an extensive discussion on the intersection of politics and faith. They address the importance of understanding one's own political and spiritual journey, highlighting influences from personal experiences and scripture. Key topics include approaching politics with a kingdom mindset, living above the fray of earthly political battles, the spiritual responsibilities of Christians, and living as exiles in a worldly system. Emphasis is placed on embracing community diversity, practicing humility, seeking peace, and focusing on justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Ronnie also shares insights on how Christians should engage with political systems, highlighting the importance of prayer, wisdom, and maintaining a focus on God's kingdom.

Resources Referenced in the Episode:

1. Grant Trotter: The Hidden Spiritual Battle in Modern Politics
2. The New Paper: thenewpaper.co
3. The Flip Side theflipside.io
4. Ronnie's Principles of Politics Notes

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
02:25 Listener Questions and Responses
18:07 Diving into Politics
25:32 Personal Political Journeys
32:49 Historical and Theological Perspectives
49:12 The Role of Voting and Political Engagement
49:59 Representation and Underrepresented Groups
52:56 Living as Ambassadors of the Kingdom of God
54:59 Jesus' Perspective on Politics
58:04 Divine Order and Spiritual Warfare
01:07:16 The Sermon on the Mount and Christian Conduct
01:19:02 Critique of Political Parties and Leaders
01:34:41 Scriptural Guidance on Governance and Obedience
01:37:19 Obeying God Over Human Authorities
01:38:44 The Role of the Church in Society
01:39:42 Controversial Issues and Christian Perspectives
01:44:56 Living as Exiles and Foreigners
01:47:26 Guiding Principles for Christians
02:08:49 Embracing Diversity in the Church
02:15:46 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Do you have questions or topic ideas for future episodes? Email any or all one the following:

• william@ctfwylie.org
• jvr@goddeal.com
• rw@goddeal.com