Raking Coals: Recent Episodes
E43 Collective
A podcast discussing ministry in the modern era, seeking to encourage churches to build one another up and work together.
The guys get together in this episode and discuss the influence of cancel culture and how it leads. virtue signaling. They go on define the term and discuss the their personal vies on the topics and how they see the impact in or society and with in the church community. We hope you enjoy this episode.
The guys get together in this episode and catch-up, discussing what they did for the holidays and other topics, including pop-culture, family, and other shenanigans. A lot has happened since this was recorded but we hope that this can be a nice fun little distraction to help get people’s mind of a lot of the heavy topics that people are thinking about.
The guys get together in this episode and discuss the issues of Christian moralism and the current culture. Christian morals and values are no longer considered mainstream and when society discusses big issues, the Christian perspective is often portrayed as self-righteous and judgmental. with that as the backdrop, the guys discuss what their perspectives are on how to address sin , injustice, and evil in a way that doesn’t fall on deaf-ears.
In episode 71, Cody and Josh share some of their thoughts on people leaving certain social media platforms in favor of other ones. While everyone is entitled to take their digital residency to whichever space they would like, there are some potential downfalls in this tactic. Echo chambers are a constant topic of conversation on Raking Coals, and the positives and negatives of echo chambers are discussed here as well. Josh and Cody believe that it is important for Christians to represent Christ in an honest and humble way in all spaces, whether it is a physical space or digital space.
In episode 71, Cody and Josh share some of their thoughts on people leaving certain social media platforms in favor of other ones. While everyone is entitled to take their digital residency to whichever space they would like, there are some potential downfalls in this tactic. Echo chambers are a constant topic of conversation on Raking Coals, and the positives and negatives of echo chambers are discussed here as well. Josh and Cody believe that it is important for Christians to represent Christ in an honest and humble way in all spaces, whether it is a physical space or digital space.
Josh and Cody discuss the topics of efficacy, being true to our word, and safety. As we think about ways in which we can continue to be more effective followers of Christ, these are things that should be on our mind. Many times we deal with the problem of promising more than we can really follow through with. Cody and Josh discuss some ways in which they have seen churches fail and succeed with these things.
The crew is down to three, since Sean took some time off from the podcast as he is a new father. Congratulations to he and Lauren! Cody and Josh have a discussion over the documentary, the Social Dilemma, and talk about how we should think about it as believers.
Before Sean disappears from the podcast for a while, the guys talk about some of their plans for the future in life and in ministry. They also talk about the things that they would like to see Raking Coals accomplish going forward.
Discussion of the wide range of experiences we get through life, and how those potentially can put us in a better place in career and ministry.
Raking Coals is about as all over the place as it gets for the guys. This week they talk about a variety of topics, sharing embarrassing moments in romance that they wish never happened. Then, somehow or another they find themselves debating on whether it would have been better to live in the Wild West era or during the Great Depression, and Sean reveals his dream of having a Bison farm. Before it is all over though, the guys get serious and discuss how they would like to see better communication within the congregations of churches going forward.
As the years go on college is getting more and more expensive. The return on investment of a college education is something that many people are questioning within our modern society. This week on Raking Coals, the guys explore whether or not Christian college is worth the price of admission. Cody went to Bible college, Josh went to state university, and Sean went to trade school, listen in as the guys share their own personal stories and experiences as they give their opinions on this week’s topic.
The guys start off by discussing some of the elements of Christian pop culture. The primary topic of conversation is dedicated to getting to know Sean’s story and journey to faith in Christ.
There are a lot of changes going on in the church due to many new regulations brought on by the pandemic. Pastor’s were surveyed in this blog post and share some of the things that they are considering in the next 30-60. Pastor’s, staff, and church members need to remember to use wisdom and not to panic as numbers change while adjusting to a new era of how we do church.
In this episode, the guys talk about some reasons why Millennials are leaving the church. As is expected, there are many factors that go into it. Unfortunately, there is not one singular solution to some of the trends that we are seeing. In a world where values are changing rapidly and people are finding community and meaning in things outside of the church, many millennials are not drawn to church. However, the more disturbing thing is the great amount of millennials who have left the church after having been raised in a family that regularly went to church.
-
The Introduction of the First Amendment
-
The origin of the phrase ”Separation of Church and State”
-
Supreme Court Rulings and Examples
-
Discussion
-
Decision on a Part 2
In this weeks episode, the team grows by 1 more! Sean Frost joins the Raking Coals team and we could not be more excited to have him on. The guys talk about the importance of knowing and sharing the stories in the Bible. The way that we interact with stories as people is something that we need to know and understand, so a foundational way in which we teach about God and Christ should be through telling the Bible stories in engaging and interesting ways.
In Episode 55, Josh and Cody, sit down to discuss through the “new normal” in churches going forward. They think through what some permanent changes as well as temporary ones. The guys raise the question of how will the church successfully pull off social distancing, and when things wind down, what are certain changes that are going to remain permanent.
In this 54th episode of Raking Coals, the guys discuss their experiences from having Easter at home this year.
Got the opportunity to record my friend's, Caleb Kudlo, message for Easter Sunday at CityView Downtown. Listen as he explains the truth and living hope we have as Christ followers, even in these turbulent times.
Josh and Cody have struggled with the way COVID-19 has impacted their own lives just as the rest of the world has. The guys have also found it really easy to just turn everything off, decrease productivity, and coast during this time of social distancing and stay at home orders. They discuss how this temptation is not the best response to our current situation and how we can continue to move forward in life in the midst of the many current obstacles. Continuing to follow the guidelines and mandates, Cody and Josh challenge everyone this week to think of ways in which they can continue to move forward in their personal faith and life goals.
This week, the guys discuss their dream jobs and ideal ministries for the future. During this time of uncertainty, Josh and Cody wanted to take the opportunity to discuss the things in life that they have always wanted to do. In a season where there is a lot of discussion of rough times, the guys decide to have a fun discussion over ideal situations that could be in the future.
Over the last 10 days, the people of the world have become highly familiar with the concept of social distancing. Going forward, we believe that the COVID-19 pandemic is going to have a lasting impact on the church, some things good and some things bad. We hope that you enjoy this discussion, and since we are a little more shut-in then normal (at least at the time of this posting) feel free to jump in with any comments or stories. We hope that you are all doing well, and ask you continue to pray as the Church and the world continue to do what’s best during this time.
For our 50th episode, we wanted to do something a little different and special. We talk through what are considered to be the top 50 contemporary worship songs, at least according to the amount of downloads they have received. We give our honest takes on these songs and the memories that we have tied to them. We also discuss the songs that most definitely SHOULD have been on there. Let us know what songs you love that did not make the top 50.
The guys have always enjoyed going to church, even since they were kids. However, that does not mean that every memory in the church is one that is full of high fives and fists bumps. In fact, each have quite a few stories about times where church was a little awkward. It is not uncommon for people to have experiences in church or around Christians that could be described as a little bit, or even, quite a bit awkward, so Josh and Cody open up and share just a couple of awkward church stories on episode 49 of Raking Coals. We hope you enjoy and can laugh along with us as we recall some of our favorite awkward church stories.
Josh likes to write down discussion topics and ideas for the podcast in his journal. Until this episode, those ideas had been kept top secret, even from his best friend and co-host, Cody. On this 48th episode of Raking Coals, Josh opens up his notebook and the guys begin to talk through a variety of different topics. The discussion ranges from stories about Christmas, to the people who have pushed us to challenge ourselves in critical ways.
Cody had a birthday, so he decided to record a podcast reflecting on some things he would like to share, as he begins his last year in his twenties. Even though he doesn’t have everything in life figured out at this point, like he thought he would when he was younger, there are some valuable things that he would like to share with all who are willing to listen.
Missing church can be something that is filled with a variety of different feelings. Sometimes it can be a relief, especially for those who have hectic Sunday mornings, getting kids ready and out the door. Other times it can be a cause for disappointment because we miss celebrating God with our church family. While, these are only two examples, a variety of different things can be going on that cause us to miss church. Sometimes we are guilted into church attendance, while other times we feel like, "does anyone care if I am here." The guys discuss all of that and more in this 46th episode of Raking Coals.
Josh takes the helm in this 45th episode of Raking Coals. He discusses one of the latest controversial topics: The Halftime Show from the largest sporting event in the United States. There are certain values that a believer in Christ has that will undoubtedly influence what we consider to be appropriate and inappropriate entertainment for ourselves and our families. But on this episode of Raking Coals, Josh explores how we go about having conversations and dealing with controversial topics while maintaining a reasonable and respectful attitude.
Holiness is something that we say and hear a lot within the context of the Church, but have we ever really thought how important that terms is to understand? For most of us, we most likely have confidence in being able to define what holiness is but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a longer discussion. The guys look at the history of how this term appears within Scripture and the importance that it holds historically and in contemporary contexts.
This week the guys come back to their series where they take a deep look on the definitions and applications of some of the most common terms surrounding Christianity. This week they look at humility, what the root of humility is for us, and how it is such and important and foundational aspect of following Christ. They look at how it should both look in theory and in practice. We hope you enjoy this one, and please feel free to let us know more terms that you would like us to go through in our series on defining terms.
The guys take a look at Proverbs and the importance of surrounding ourselves with wise people in our lives. They explore what they looks like in a practical manner and share what interactions of seeking wise counsel should look like. It is always easy to try to have our biases confirmed, or have people tell us what we want to hear but that is not always great for us. Having reliable, mature, and wise friends is something of great value in our faith.
Josh and Cody are back for a brand new year, and looking forward to what 2020 has to bring. In this first episode of the year, the guys discuss the New Year’s resolutions that we make. In regards to our faith, what are some good ways to stick to some of the resolutions that we make or might have made in our relationship with Christ.
Cody and Josh discuss the things that truly matter about Christmas. Obviously keeping Christ at the center of Christmas is vital to this holiday season, but how do we do that on a daily basis? What are the things we need to think about in order to avoid the abyss of stress and trying too hard to impress or please others? Also, if there are any people who should fully embrace and share the joy of Christmas, the peace and hope that it brings, it ought to be the ones who celebrate the birth of the king of kings.
Josh and Cody sit down to talk about life, and how we handle it when things don't seem to go the way that we planned them to. The guys recognize that we all make plans, as well as have hopes and dreams for ourselves. Unfortunately, we don't always have everything pan out the way that we wished it would. Each discuss their own experience with this obstacle, and explore the scripture and principals that help get them through it.
This week Lydia Fawzy joins in on the conversation to talk about a time in life where she highly cut back on fellowship within the local church. In this episode we talk about the importance and impact that connecting with fellow believers has on us in our life. Often times the church has many options and ways for us to connect with one another, and we have a discussion about some of the most effective ways that this is done.
This week the guys sit down with Bob Hershey to discuss pregnancy center ministry. Bob, is the executive director of the Cleveland Pregnancy Center, and he discusses what day-to-day operations are like as well as the effect of the ministry. In this episode we hear about Bob’s personal testimony and how the Lord has used that to place him where he is at today, as well as how he uses that personal experience to encourage those who interacts with at CPC.
Josh and Cody talk with Cardin Sellers about Camp Ministry, its unique ability to reach people and some of the ins and outs of what it is like to run a camp ministry. Cardin is the program director at Camp Patmos on Kelly’s Island in Ohio
-What is Camp Ministry?
-Cardin discusses what makes Camp Patmos special
-What is it like to be involved in this type of ministry for a majority of life?
-A special mission opportunity in order to continue starting camp ministries.
Cody and Josh are joined again by Matt LaMaster to talk about preaching and why it is important in the Church
-The different types and styles of preaching
-What is the purpose of good Bible preaching and/or teaching
-The different strengths of a variety of different communicators.
-Are we drawn to listen to people who have the same teaching style as ourselves?
Josh and Cody are joined by two friends, Sean and Lauren Frost, to talk about how they met, their dating relationship, and the best things that they have learned from one another as a married couple. Some topics covered in the episode are:
-Meeting over a dating app.
-How they approached their relationship in respect to their faith.
-Sean’s journey and motivation into a successful career path.
-The greatest lessons that they have learned from each other.
-The different insecurities that men and women bring to relationships.
-What makes for a sustainable, healthy, and godly relationship.
Year 1 of the E43collective is almost at an end. With only 2 months from our 1 year anniversary, we look back at where E43 has progressed and changed. In the opinions of the hosts, Cody and Josh, the content being produced is at its highest quality. But, with year 1 coming to an end, the guys discuss their absolute excitement about what is to come in year 2. Not only will Raking Coals and the After Sunday Discussion continue to improve, but the guys tease a little bit about their NEW PROJECT coming in 2020. Enjoy this episode of reflections and updates, and let us know what you think.
Episode 31, is the beginning of something new for Raking Coals. Josh and Cody begin a series of podcasts that seeks to define the most popular terms and words that we use within Christianity. In the first part of this series, they examine the most popular and well-known terms: Christian.
-What is a Christian?
-What is the history of how it began to be used?
-Is it still a good way for followers of Christ to define themselves?
-Why is it important to talk about something that we all can probably give a definition for?
Episode 30 tackles the every more relevant concern of how we should be interacting within the digital world. In a social media driven society, how to we best honor Christ? Some of the topics talked about in the episode are:
-The benefits and drawbacks of social media on the Church
-What is BuzzFeed culture? How does it continue to impact us.
-How should we approach and interact with click bait?
-How the internet is a tool.
-Unhealthy impact that this has had on our lives, and how it has made it better.
Jeremiah Shawver joins the guys today to talk about a variety of different topics. Podcasting, virtual reality church, seminary, experiences in group homes, super heroes, and the importance of youth ministry are all things discussed in this episode, full of insight and laughter. We hope you enjoy this one. If you want to find out more about Jeremiah and his church, you can check out Parkside Chapel and subscribe to there podcast, “If I had an Opinion” on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
Cody and Josh have an important discussion on feeling value as a person in a church, and important ways in which leaders and members can show value to one another. One of the most important things for the Church to do is to built an atmosphere that seeks to love and value the same way in which Jesus loved and valued the people that he encountered. In a busy culture this can be a lot easier said than done, but also one thing that could set the Church apart from other, everyday experiences
David Choma is the owner of CrossFit Strongsville. He sits down with Josh and Cody to share his testimony of faith, and how God has uniquely used that as a coach and owner of a gym. While fitness and exercise is certainly a topic within the episode, the guys touch on important issues such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and the loss of loved ones.
Josh and Cody have been away for awhile, but they are back and excited to talk Raking Coals in Episode 26. This episode covers a variety of different things that the guys had on their minds these past few weeks. Meetings, intentionality, engaging with people, and getting out of a program-driven mindset are just a few things they discuss in this packed episode.
Cody and Josh discuss youth and children’s ministry with Brian Dario. Brian shares about his approach to student ministry and bringing in the right energy level, The importance of being able to teach children bible stories in an engaging way, and what it was like when Brian had Josh and Cody as students in youth group.
In Episode 24 of Raking Coals, Josh and Cody open up to their personal lives and situation in ministry. After 10 years of involvement in Student Ministries, each of the guys has decided to transition into a different ministry. For the guys this is one their favorite recordings to date. They share what has led them to want to transition to different ministries, the best lessons and experiences they have had through youth ministry, and what is ahead for each of them as they enter into a different phase of life in ministry within the local church.
In episode 23, Cody and Josh, are joined by Matt LaMaster, a pastor in Anderson, Indiana. In 2016 God led Matt to respond to a call to Southern Heights Christian Church where he currently pastors. Matt has a unique journey and a special knowledge and wisdom of ministry and scripture. Take some time to listen in on some fantastic insights and great conversation.
In episode 22 of Raking Coals, Cody and Josh, are joined by a guest, Steve Brown. Steve, is a pastor at The First Baptist Church of Red Bank in New Jersey. Steve shares about his journey from finance into pastoral ministry, the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit, the importance of being involved in our communities, and some good things we can all be thinking about in how to best maximize the use of church buildings.
In Episode 21 of Raking Coals, Josh and Cody, discuss some of their past experience with small groups. Being a common ministry within many churches, it is important for these groups to provide positive experience in the lives of those who are part of them. There is no “golden rule” or “best way” in going about small groups, but there are certain elements that provide a meaningful experience, in which God can change the lives of the members of a small group.
In Episode 20 of Raking Coals, Cody records a solo episode sharing how becoming a dad has changed and ministered to him. Don’t underestimate the power that you have to share Christ with your own children, and on the same hand do not underestimate the ability that they have to minister to you.
In episode 19 of Raking Coals, Josh and Cody, are joined by guests, Caleb and Julia Kudlo. Caleb is a pastor of a church in downtown Cleveland (Cityview Baptist Church) and is involved with their youth ministry, Shoreway. In this episode, Caleb and Julia, share stories about how they ended up in urban ministry, some stories and experiences in it, attitudes to have about ministry, and shortly touch on some ideas about worship in the Church. If you want to learn more about what Caleb and Julia do, be sure to check out http://www.cityviewbc.org.
Josh and Cody discuss some components that they think are important in becoming a better reader of the Bible. In a time where biblical literacy is at a dissatisfying place, the guys discuss some small steps that people can make in order to be able to read and study the Bible better and have a better understanding of it. They share some of the practices and skills that can be developed and improved upon on a regular basis in order to be able to have a more solid understanding of scripture and feel more confident in your own ability to be able to study and understand it.
In Episode 17 of Raking Coals, Cody and Josh, welcome their first guest, Zach Butler. Zach is currently a drive-thru director at Chik-Fil-A with plans and hopes to one day become and owner/operator. Zach sits down and discusses the journey that God has taken him on to get to this place. From sharing about his time teaching English in South Korea, to the discussions of positive influence on employees in a fast food restaurant, this is a conversation worth listening to. Please, listen and let us know what you think in the comments.
In episode 16 of Raking Coals, Cody and Josh , define what an Evangelical Christian is. In current culture the term has been heard in mainline media more than in previous years. Josh and Cody set out to have a conversation surrounded by defining what Evangelical Christianity it, and whether or not Evangelicalism is a positive or negative thing for the Church.
In episode 15 of Raking Coals, Cody and Josh reflect on the experience of the E43Collective to this point. They share their personal experiences, joys and challenges of creating a podcast and blog. Also, they talk about the direction and hope for the future of the E43Collective, Raking Coals, and the After Sunday Discussion.
On Episode 14 of Raking Coals, Josh and Cody talk about an important topic, Millennials and the Church. Both being guys of the Millennial generation discuss the issues with both concern and optimism. The reality is that Millennials don’t have the best relationship with the Church, so the guys investigate some of the statistics behind it, with the hope to begin to mend the relationship. All feedback and findings on these topics of discussion are welcome, and we hope everyone enjoys this episode.
This week on the 13th episode of Raking Coals, Josh and Cody, talk through how churches should deal with troubling issues. When churches are hit with poor decisions made by leadership it can be a tough situation to deal with. There might not be one perfect way to deal with these things, but the guys talk through some positive responses and outlooks in these tough situations. When pastors or leaders mess up, it doesn’t mean that God’s plan is destroyed. Also, there are people hurt in these situations who never get the opportunity to properly process through it, or talk about it. So, this week we set out to help us all keep spirits up when these tough things happen.
On Episode 12 of Raking Coals, Cody and Josh, discuss the experience of Bi-Vocational Ministry. This week, Cody shares about his personal experience going from Bible college, to full-time ministry, to bi-vocational ministry. From the challenges of balancing family life, personal goals, benefits, downfalls, ministry health, and everything else, Cody discusses the last 4 years of Bi-Vocational Ministry. It gets real.
In this 11th episode of Raking Coals, Cody and Josh talk about Spiritual Gifts. They discuss what they are, examples of them, and how important it is for the body of the Church. Listen in and give your feedback if you have any varying thoughts. As always, enjoy and be blessed!
In this 10th episode of Raking Coals, Cody and Josh, share their personal advice on how to get involved in a ministry, get satisfaction from a ministry, and even start your very own ministry. Tune in as the guys share in one of their favorite episodes to date.
On this 9th episode of Raking Coals, Josh and Cody, discuss leaving meaningful legacies in the churches that we are a part of. The two discuss the various different examples that they have seen from those whom have left a great impact on their own lives as well as the lives of those whom they served.
Josh and Cody discuss their experiences studying and teaching the Bible. They discuss how the two build upon each other and share their thoughts on how everyone should experience the preparation and delivery of teaching at least a couple of times.
In episode 7 of Raking Coals, Cody and Josh discuss the importance of healthy conversations and relationships when it comes to talking about Christ and faith related topics.
In Episode 6 of Raking Coals, Cody and Josh, share their thoughts on conferences. What makes conferences different from conventions? How conferences are a good image of the global church. They share about potential drawbacks, and share some of their favorite memories.
On Episode 5 of Raking Coals, Cody and Josh, share some of their favorite ministry memories. Positive memories have had a huge impact on the development of this team, and the two share some of what they have learned through these favored experiences.
In episode 4 of Raking Coals, Josh and Cody, discuss the importance to balance a busy schedule. Becoming too busy can be a hindrance to ministry and service, so the guys share some of their own strategies and principles in regard to this. Lastly, they talk about how day in and day out, a Christian's life should be defined by peace, not stress.
In this third episode of Raking Coals, Josh and Cody share in more detail about their ministry backgrounds, as well as their hopes for the future of The E4:3 Collective.
In Episode 2 of Raking Coals, Josh and Cody, discuss the importance of church members’ involvement in ministry within and outside of their local church.
Josh and Cody sit down and share about themselves and their vision for Raking Coals in this first episode.