All of the Above: Recent Episodes
The Church at Greer Station
This is All of the Above, the podcast where we couldn’t decide whether to focus on theology, sharing stories, discussing books, or philosophy of ministry so we chose to do all of the above.
Trevor and Ridgewood member, Jon Cheek, discuss the effects smartphones are having on kids with some help from Jonathan Haidt's most recent book, "The Anxious Generation".
Jonathan and Aaron discuss the life and ministry of Andrew Fuller and William Carey and the impact that their work continues to have on the church today.
Aaron and Jonathan discuss the book The Trellis and the Vine by Colin Marshall and Tony Payne and how it should influence the way we operate as Christians and church members.
In light of our sermon series on 1 Peter, Trevor and Aaron discuss what it means to be a "Post-Christian" society and the opportunities that it presents.
It's the most wonderful time of the year! Join Aaron and Casey Markham as they discuss cheesy Hallmark Christmas Rom-Coms and the joy and value they bring to our lives.
The Pastors and Staff of Ridgewood Church pause to give thanks to the Lord for his goodness to us!
This past Sunday in the True Story of the Whole World series, Trevor preached on the Law. In this episode, Trevor and Aaron dive further into discussing the Old Testament Law and how it applies today.
Content Warning at 29:00 - Trevor and Aaron discuss specifics of Christian sexual ethics
Trevor and Aaron discuss Kevin DeYoung's book Do Not Be True to Yourself: Countercultural Advice for the Rest of Your Life and where our identity should be found in a culture that tells us to just "Let it Go"....featuring aliens, killer snails, and ice queens.
In light of our upcoming Equip Intensives, Trevor and Aaron discuss how we can read and engage with books well.
Trevor sits down with Reagan Koschel to discuss the importance of conversation in community building, the gospel, and the church. Reagan gives some practical advice on "conversation threading" and how it can help improve our conversations.
In this episode, Trevor and Aaron discuss the article "The Misunderstood Reasons Millions of Americans Stopped Going to Church" by Jake Meador and look at the causes behind the declining number of Americans regularly attending church. Give it a listen...the answer may not be what you would expect!
Deconstruction is a hot topic in today's internet/blogosphere. But what should we make of it? Trevor and Aaron discuss the topic and Joshua Ryan Butler's article "Four Causes of Deconstruction".
Pastors Trevor & Jim discuss the topic of patriotism. Should Christians be patriots? Do we owe any allegiance to our country? Why is this a tough question? Why is Rocky IV the best July 4th film? This and more on today's episode.
Trevor and Aaron discuss what it means to be a Community Maker and a Community Taker and outline ways that we can begin to build community around us.
Trevor and Aaron look at Acts 15 and an article titled "If You're Thinking About Leaving a Church..." by Mark Dever and discuss how to best part ways if you are thinking about leaving a church.
Have you ever wondered why we sing the songs that we sing on Sunday? Or have you asked why some songs don't make an appearance in our services? Nic and Trevor answer these questions and more as they discuss singing and our philosophy on which songs we sing.
Given that the church is made up of people in all stages of life (single, married, married with kids, widowed, etc.), does the church have a tendency to primarily focus on families? Trevor and Aaron discuss this question, 2000s pop, and footballs shaped like brains.
In this episode we take our name seriously! Get your tinfoil hats ready...we are talking about aliens. Trevor and Jim take a look at the essay Religion and Rocketry by C.S. Lewis and discuss the existence of aliens and the impact that it would have on the Christian faith.
Jonathan and Trevor discuss a chapter in Sam Chan's book How to Talk about Jesus (Without Being That Guy) that calls Christians to be unofficial chaplains in their workplaces, gyms, coffee shops, etc.
Aaron and Jim discuss their recent sermons and the tension between faith and works that is seen in scripture.
As Ridgewood Church enters into a season of prayer and fasting, Jonathan and Trevor discuss the topic of fasting, its role in scripture, and significance in the Christian life.
In this mini episode Jonathan talks about the Advent season and tackles the questions "Where did Advent come from?", "What are we supposed to do in this season?", and "Why is there only one pink candle?"
Jonathan and Hannah discuss our responsibility to the kids of the church, how to grow in the discipline of engaging with kids, being aunts and uncles in the faith, and the one children's show that will never grow old.
Listen in as Bryce and Jonathan discuss Joe Rigney's book Live Like A Narnian and ways in which we can be discipled by "breathing Narnian air".
Why sing? Why does God command his people to sing? Why are songs on nearly every page of the Bible? Why has every Christian in the history of the world sung? Give this episode to listen —Especially if you are terrible at singing like Trevor
In light of the recent Community Group restart at Ridgewood church, Jonathan and Aaron discuss ways to do community group well.
In this episode Aaron and Trevor discuss sin, human depravity, Spiderman, and seasonal candles
Listen in as Trevor and Aaron discuss Cal Newport's book Digital Minimalism, Myspace, and Aaron's list of Christmas Rom-Coms.
Trevor and Aaron continue the discussion of the book of Acts and the Holy Spirit by discussing the charismatic gifts.
Aaron and Trevor present an appendix to Aaron's sermon on the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, its role in Trinity, and the Christian life. There is also talk of chicken tenders.
To hear Aaron's sermon check out the TCGS Sermon Podcast at https://open.spotify.com/show/50m6iIjDM0F8iga1czpEAM or wherever you stream podcasts.
The book of Acts is full of kingdom language. In this episode Aaron and Trevor discuss the Kingdom of God, its meaning, and the implications on the life of the believer.
Support our sponsor Confidence Coffee Supply by visiting their website confidencecoffeesupply.com and order some delicious coffee that goes to support missions.
In this episode Trevor and Aaron discuss election, predestination, and unpack TULIP. Check out the articles mention in the podcast below:
- https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/what-we-believe-about-the-five-points-of-calvinism
- https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justin-taylor/tweaking-the-tulip/
- Five Articles of Remonstrance - https://www.theopedia.com/five-articles-of-remonstrance
- Canons of Dort - https://prts.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Canons-of-Dort-with-Intro.pdf
- https://www.9marks.org/article/whered-all-these-calvinists-come-from/?mc_cid=1adba450fd&mc_eid=3ac6a08b2a
Have you ever wondered why sanctification is an ongoing process? Or why it can't just be immediately applied to you at salvation? Well then this is the episode for you! Listen in as Trevor and Aaron discuss the process of sanctification and its benefit for the believer.
There are thousands of new and exciting books coming out every day. Why should we take the time to go back and read books that are often dated, unfamiliar, and difficult to read? In this episode, Jonathan and Aaron share fond memories they have with books, discuss why reading old books is important, and quote C.S. Lewis every 5 minutes.
In this weeks episode, Trevor and Aaron sit down and candidly discuss the tensions behind decision making about the Ridgewood building. As progress continues, how are we to think about about the building the Lord has blessed us with? Trevor and Aaron discuss both the joys and the tension that this new season brings for our church.
Don't forget to check out our sponsor, Confidence Coffee Supply, at www.confidencecoffeesupply.com. Listen in for a promo code for 50% off your first bag of coffee!
Join us this week as we continue our church wide family worship initiative by dusting off part 2 of the parenting series from "The Weekly". In part 2, Trevor continues to discuss obedience and discipline and outlines practices that will keep us from "provoking our children". Don't forget to check out our sponsor Confidence Coffee Supply! Tune in to this week's episode for a promo code for 50% off your first bag. Order now at confidencecoffeesupply.com for delicious coffee that supports foreign missions.
As part of our church wide family worship initiative, we are bringing back a very special two part episode of "The Weekly" on the topic of parenting. In part one, Trevor discusses the importance of obedience and discipline. Tune in next week for part 2!
In this first episode of 2022, Trevor and Hannah discuss the article "Keeping the Faith by Christian Smith and discuss passing the faith on to our kids, family worship, and the pronunciation of the word "manifestation".
Find the Christian Smith article here: https://www.firstthings.com/article/2021/05/keeping-the-faith
Check out our sponsor Confidence Coffee Supply: https://confidencecoffeesupply.com/
This weeks episode of All of the Above is a little different. Listen as we pause to reflect on the work of the Lord and give thanks!
This week we are dusting off and oldie but a goodie...This episode of the Weekly was recorded by Trevor in the early days of COVID-19, while time has passed these insights from The Screwtape Letters remain incredibly valuable.
The Pastors talkback! In this episode of All of the Above Trevor and Aaron discuss the questions "Where does the resurrection of the dead in Matthew 27 fit eschatologically?" and "Are the gospel accounts reliable?"
Make sure to check out our first All of the Above sponsor Confidence Coffee Supply at www.confidencecoffeesupply.com. Give the episode a listed for a promo code for 50% off your first coffee bag purchase.
The Pastors talkback! As our sermon series, The Crucified King, brings us to the end of Matthew, we encounter the character of Judas, the disciple who betrays Jesus. Aaron and Trevor take a look at the actions of Judas in the Gospels, alongside those of other disciples, in an effort to answer the question, "What should we make of Judas?"
Do you like scary stories? Should Christians enjoy horror? In light of the Spooky Season that is now upon us, Trevor and Jim discuss whether or not there is anything redeemable about horror stories and the pitfalls there as well.
Jonathan and Trevor discuss the book Being the Bad Guys by Stephen McAlpine and the rapid cultural shift that has moved Christians from being regarded as the "good guys" or "one of the guys" to the "bad guys".
Trevor Hoffman and special guest Brian Williams discuss the work of C.S. Lewis as they seek to answer the question "Why should Christians read C.S. Lewis?"
Jacob Whitt makes his All of the Above debut as he and Jonathan Franklin discuss the importance of college students tethering themselves to the local church and how the church can rally around them.
Aaron and Bryce discuss the topic of Eschatology, scratching the surface of this doctrine and the hope and urgency that it provides for the church.
Trevor and Bryce discuss TCGS's church planting endeavor, calling to ministry, and the local body's role in multiplication.
Our resident bibliophiles, Bryce and Sarah, discuss eucatastrophe (or "good catastrophe"), its use in literature and beyond, and its impact on the Christian life. May contain spoilers to books you should have already read
Aaron and Hannah discuss joy and how it should permeate the the life of a believer...even when you are sick with the stomach bug or up all night with a 14 month old.
Jonathan and Trevor discuss the story of the Ridgewood property, the process of planting roots, and how we, as the church, should view our buildings.
Bryce Harrison and Sarah Gilliam discuss The Wizard of Oz and how its reading can incite love for God and a longing for home. Whether this is your first time down the yellow brick road or if you are a resident of the emerald city you will not want to miss this episode.
Jonathan, Trevor, and Aaron discuss the importance of prayer in the life of the believer and steps toward praying well.
This past Sunday, Trevor shared Brett McCracken's wisdom pyramid. What is helpful about this? What does each tier entail? Give this episode a listen as Trevor and Aaron sort through what they found helpful.
Jonathan Franklin and Trevor Hoffman discuss Andrew Wilson's book Spirit and Sacrament: An Invitation to Eucharismatic Worship.
Jonathan Franklin, Bryce Harrison, and Mikey Smith discuss the way stories impact evangelism and how a stoplight can help categorize evangelistic encounters.
A few weeks back, Trevor and Josh sat down to discuss the pandemic, the Christian discussion around masks, and how we MUST navigate differing convictions in these contentious times.
Ken Sande article: https://rw360.org/2013/03/07/charitable-judgements-an-antidote-to-judging-others/
Brett McCracken wisdom pyramid: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/watch-diet-in-covid-19-crisis/
Brett McCracken article on wearing masks as neighbor love: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/4-reasons-wear-mask/
Trevor and Aaron discuss the difference between God's rest and ours, and the presence of God we experience now and what we'll experience in the New Jerusalem.
Trevor and Aaron discuss a few recently questions.
What is the purpose of The Big Questions forum? Why are we choosing to do it at this time?
What does help from God actually look like? I can't see him. If the church is Jesus' body, how do I distinguish between looking for encouragement from him through his body vs. merely relying on other humans? How do I know that help from the church is actually help from God and not just some nice people?
Trevor and Aaron discuss a few recently questions. With a guest appearance from Trevor's kids.
Once again pastoral resident, Jonathan Franklin, talks with our church planter, Bryce Harrison, and one of our members, Reagan Koschel, on J.R.R. Tolkien's epic, The Lord of the Rings, and how they help us love Jesus.
Pastoral resident, Jonathan Franklin, talks with our church planter, Bryce Harrison, and one of our members, Reagan Koschel, on how reading incites love for God and His good world.
How ought we think of hell? And specifically annihilationism?
What about the death penalty? Can broken people in a broken system deliver true justice?
Trevor, Aaron, & Bryce spend some time discussing these two questions via Zoom. Thanks, Zoom!
The questions Trevor and Aaron tackle:
- What happened to the toy room?
- Why don’t we do the feasts given to Israel any longer?
- What about the Lord’s Supper? Why didn’t Trevor mention mention that? Isn’t that literally a “feast” Christians practice?
- Why aren’t we taking the Lord's Supper during our time apart?
Schools are closed for the foreseeable future due to Covid-19. That means there are lots of parents in our body who now have to figure out what it looks like to homeschool. Trevor thought it’d be helpful to recruit a few of our homeschooling mothers to give some advice to those of us newly-minted homeschooling parents. What do we need to know? Recognizing that some of us have been thrown into the fire with no experience or preparation, what are some helpful things to remember and a few best practices? And what are a few heart-level encouragements for us in this season? Listen to Trevor's chat with Sarah Gilliam, one our pastor's wives, with some additional help from two members of TCGS, Lauren Riddle and Leah Weisbecker.
Two encouragements:
- You CAN do this!
- Close proximity means lots of great discipleship opportunities for the kids.
Seven practical tips:
- Care for your own soul first.
- Get dressed!
- Have a schedule (written in pencil).
- Breaks are your friend.
- Read together!
- Use God's good world.
- Enjoy this time.
The questions Trevor and Aaron tackle:
Is Trevor wearing a nice button down from the waist up and pajama pants from the waist down?
Can you speak to the collateral damage of God’s wrath?
How can this passage be used to give hope and truth to those around us who are not believers?
Why would God allow evil such as Boko Haram, genocide, Hitler, etc?
Ephesians 6:4 says, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."
Family worship is one of the key ways we can do that. Let's take advantage of this forced reset and institute this discipline!
Goal isn’t to be perfect; it’s to be good enough!
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Read — passage; psalm, story, parable of Jesus, a few lines from an epistle (take turns reading!)
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Pray — pray in light of the passage, pray for salvation, pray for health, ask God’s wisdom in family decisions, etc.
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Sing — a verse and chorus of a song from church!
There's nothing magical, just faith in God’s working through the cumulative of years of these means of grace.
Remember: all ministry is farming! It requires patience, stick-to-it-tiveness, and long-term vision.
What does Screwtape have to say about the coronavirus? Listen up.
The quote Trevor read from Screwtape Letters:
You say you are "delirious with joy" because the European humans have started another of their wars. I see very well what has happened to you. You are not delirious; you are only drunk… Do not allow any temporary excitement to distract you from the real business of undermining faith and preventing the formation of virtues. Give me without fail in your next letter a full account of the patient's reactions to the war, so that we can consider whether you are likely to do more good by making him an extreme patriot or an ardent pacifist. There are all sorts of possibilities. In the meantime, I must warn you not to hope too much from a war.
Of course a war is entertaining. The immediate fear and suffering of the humans is a legitimate and pleasing refreshment for our myriads of toiling workers. But what permanent good does war do us unless we make use of it for bringing souls to Our Father Below? When I see the temporal suffering of humans who finally escape us, I feel as if I had been allowed to taste the first course of a rich banquet and then denied the rest. It is worse than not to have tasted it at all. The Enemy, true to His barbarous methods of warfare, allows us to see the short misery of His favourites only to tantalise and torment us-to mock the incessant hunger which, during this present phase of the great conflict, His blockade is admittedly imposing. Let us therefore think rather how to use, than how to enjoy, this European war. For it has certain tendencies inherent in it which are, in themselves, by no means in our favour. We may hope for a good deal of cruelty and unchastity. But, if we are not careful, we shall see thousands turning in this tribulation to the Enemy, while tens of thousands who do not go so far as that will nevertheless have their attention diverted from themselves to values and causes which they believe to be higher than the self... Men are killed in places where they knew they might be killed and to which they go, if they are at all of the Enemy's party, prepared. How much better for us if all humans died in costly nursing homes amid doctors who lie, nurses who lie, friends who lie, as we have trained them, promising life to the dying, encouraging the belief that sickness excuses every indulgence, and even, if our workers know their job, withholding all suggestion of a priest lest it should betray to the sick man his true condition! And how disastrous for us is the continual remembrance of death which war enforces. One of our best weapons, contented worldliness, is rendered useless. In wartime not even a human can believe that he is going to live forever.
Trevor and Bryce talk about the self and the teachings of Jesus. How are we to think about being ourselves when Jesus calls us to die to self? Give us a listen and learn what made Bryce's last Thursday so special?
"For many, the idea that Christianity is a white, Western religion, intrinsically tied to cultural imperialism, stands a major ethical barrier to considering Christ." --Rebecca McLaughlin, Confront Christianity
So how are we to think about this question? Does Christianity necessarily crush diversity?
We sing some of the best songs ever written this time of year. What are some of the greatest? And what makes them great? And which is the most emo of the Christmas / Advent songs? This and more!
Remember the setting; a grandparent's kitchen, cookies baking. A best friend's basement with a retro video game system. The smell of your dad after cutting the grass. The soundtrack to your studies at college. We're all nostalgic for something. We all possess a longing for some good ole days long gone. We think fondly of these memories with joy and sadness. We're especially nostalgic around Christmas. So what is nostalgia? Why are we nostalgic? And what might nostalgia be directing us toward? Trevor and Jim Slice talk through this topic on this week's episode.
We'd all like to change. But into what? And why? Something we hope is that every person a part of our church changes. Trevor and Aaron discuss a book that we think is a really helpful resource in pursuing the right sort of change.
Our church has been blessed with lots of opportunities to invest in young men and women, particularly those interested in vocational ministry. This week, Trevor interviews one of those young men, Jonathan Franklin. Jonathan serves as one of our pastoral residents. We spend this episode talking about his family background, how he became a believer, where he wants to serve and minister long-term, and what he hopes to get out of his time at TCGS. We hope this episode encourages you!
In Rev. 3:14-22, Jesus condemns the church at Laodicea for a lukewarmness rooted in overconfidence in wealth, autonomy, and affluence. In many respects, this is very much like the church in 21st century America. How so? How might this be true of us today, both as individuals and as a church? How might we be able to say that we "live in Laodicea" as 21st century Americans? What is the connection between wealth and spiritual poverty? Why is it hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom? Is there an underbelly to living in Laodicea? This week Trevor discusses this topic with Aaron Markham, our discipleship director.
What do the next several weeks look like for TCGS? More importantly, what's the "WHY" that undergirds these things? How do these events fit into our overall vision as a church? Trevor sits down with Aaron Markham, our discipleship director, to discuss all this in this week's episode!
For more info on all the things discussed today, visit our website: tcgreerstation.com.
On October 12-19, Trevor and a handful of folks from TCGS and TCC visited Lima, Peru to serve, work, evangelize, and observe the work of Food for the Hungry. On this week's episode, Trevor discusses the trip with Carlos Causillas (a member of TCC and our team leader) on Carlos' back porch; they discuss what Carlos was encouraged by, and what he hopes our churches take away from the trip. Give it a listen!
Over the last 18 months we've been slowly working on our founding documents - our statement of faith, covenant, and constitution. Maybe you hear that and maybe you think to yourself: Why mess with a church covenant, statement of faith, and constitution in the first place? They aren't in the bible. The early church didn't need them. Churches in other parts of the world are getting along fine without them. Why do WE need them? Why all of this extra work? Isn't this just "traditions of men" being piled onto the word of God unnecessarily complicating things? Isn't this distracting from the mission to make Jesus known, love our neighbors, and preach the gospel? Why? Why? WHY?
Give this episode listen for any answer to those burning questions and a little bit of life advice with Josh Styles.
Sometimes Christians get famous. Other times famous people become Christians. How should those none famous Christians among us respond? Should we be happy? Encouraged? Or doubtful? Cynical? This week Trevor and Jim Slice discuss this topic and a little about some guy named "Kanye."
According to wikipedia, "et cetera" is a Latin expression used to mean "and other similar things." Translated literally from Latin, it means "and the rest."
What do the next several weeks look like for TCGS? Why are we doing these things? Why are these important? How do these events fit into our overall vision as a church? Trevor sits down with Hannah Koschel, our ministry admin and kids ministry director, to discuss all this in this week's episode!
For more info on all the things discussed today, visit our website: tcgreerstation.com.
How can Christians be hospitable in a world that is inhospitable to us? That's the question Rosaria Butterfield answers in her book, "The Gospel Comes with a House Key." Today, Trevor and Sarah Gilliam talk about this great little book and some useful takeaways for TCGS.
On September 8, our church began a teaching series on Revelation 1-3; Jesus' letters to the 7 churches. Revelation, as a unique book in the New Testament, can appear really challenging from the outset. So how can we go about reading it? What are some rules of thumb to guide our reading? Trevor talks with Aaron Markham and Bryce Harrison about Dennis Johnson's seven strategies for seeing. Give us a listen!
"Seven strategies for seeing" from Dennis Johnson's Triumph of the Lamb, summarized by Justin Taylor:
- Revelation is given to reveal. It makes its central message so clear that even those who hear it can take it to heart and receive the blessing it promises.
- Revelation is a book to be seen, a book of symbols in motion. Because the appearance of individuals and institutions in everyday experience often masks their true identity, Revelation is given in visions full of symbols that paradoxically picture the true identity of the church, its enemies, and its Champion.
- Revelation makes sense only in the light of the Old Testament. Not only the visions of such prophets as Ezekiel, Daniel, and Zechariah but also historical events such as creation, the fall, and the exodus provide the symbolic vocabulary for John’s visions.
- Numbers count in Revelation. Since numbers are used symbolically in Revelation, we must discern the meaning that they convey rather than trying to pull them as numbers directly into our experience, measured by calendars and odometers.
- Revelation is for a church under attack. Its purpose is to awaken us to the dimensions of the battle and the strategies of the enemy, so that we will respond to the attacks with faithful perseverance and purity, overcoming by the blood of the Lamb.
- Revelation concerns “what must soon take place.” We must seek an understanding that touches the experience of our brothers and sisters in the seven first-century congregations scattered in the cities of western Asia Minor. Revelation is not about events and hostile forces remote from their struggle.
- The victory belongs to God and to Christ. Revelation is pervaded with worship songs and scenes because its pervasive theme–despite its gruesome portrait of evil’s powers–is the triumph of God through the Lamb. We read this book to hear the King’s call to courage and to fall down in adoring worship before him.
Revelation video from the Bible Project
This week, Trevor interviews our new discipleship director, Aaron Markham. Aaron and his wife, Casey, have just moved back to the states after serving for two years in Nairobi, Kenya. What will his role entail? What lessons did he learn in Kenya? What does he order at Zaxby's? Answers to these burning questions and more on this week's episode!
According to wikipedia, "et cetera" is a Latin expression used to mean "and other similar things." Translated literally from Latin, it means "and the rest."
What do the next several weeks look like for TCGS? Why are we doing these things? Why are these important? Who would choose to dip Cheetos in cream cheese? How do these events fit into our overall vision as a church? Trevor sits down with Hannah Koschel, our ministry admin and kids ministry director, and Bryce Harrison, our church planting resident, to discuss all this in this week's episode!
For more info on all the things discussed today, visit our website!
The final song is "September," from Earth, Wind, & Fire and covered by Pomplamoose
Like money, you have a limited supply of attention. Like money, we spend it. How do you spend yours? Trevor and Brent King talk about the necessity of learning to cultivate habits of attention to the good things. Give us some of your attention; we hope it'll be encouraging.
Our church has been blessed with lots of opportunities to invest in young men and women, particularly those interested in vocational ministry. This week, Trevor interviews one of those young men, Jon Ross Fordree. Jon Ross has joined us from our sister church, The Church at Blue Ridge, to serve as one of our pastoral residents. We talk about his family's background in Mormonism, how he became a believer, and where he wants to serve and minister long-term. You can follow him on instagram: @tigga_digga (and in case you're asking, too, "tigga digga" is the sound a duck call makes, apparently 🤷)
Should Christians engage in sports? What value is there to sports? What pitfalls are there to sports? Bryce Harrison, church planting resident and minister of recreation (kidding, but not really), and Trevor talk about sports. Give this episode a listen!
According to wikipedia, "et cetera" is a Latin expression used to mean "and other similar things." Translated literally from Latin, it means "and the rest." At the beginning of each August, our church looks to begin a new ministry year. With that comes lots of events, new initiatives, need-to-know's, and well... etc.
So what all do we have coming down the pike over the course of the next few weeks? Why are we doing these things? Why are these important? How do they fit into our overall vision as a church? Trevor Hoffman, our teaching pastor, sits down with Hannah Koschel, our ministry admin and kids ministry director, to discuss such things in the launch of The Weekly's SECOND YEAR!
For more info on all the things discussed today, visit: tcgreerstation.com
This episode is the second in our follow up's to Paul's commands in Colossians 3. Trevor spends some time talking on ways to exasperate our children, and discussing what we are to aim for in parenting instead of exasperating and discouraging our kids. Give this episode a listen; we hope it's practical, helpful, and encouraging.
Yesterday, Trevor taught through Paul's commands to the household in Colossians 3:18-4:1. Trevor broadly addressed how these commands fit within the overall structure of the letter, encouraging the church to "put on Christ where Christ puts you."
In this episode, Trevor wanted to delve a little bit deeper into the topic and provide some practical ways of thinking through the responsibility of teaching our children obedience.
A few years ago, Trevor met Anand through a mutual friend and was blown away by the work he was doing in India. Anand founded Disciples Bible College, a school dedicated to teaching pastors how to read their Bibles and shepherd God's church. Anand is active in planting churches, translating commentaries and equipping church leaders, and his wife, Anusha, devotes herself to medical missions, women's, and children's ministry. Give this episode a listen. (And trigger warnings for those of you who are a little spooked by snakes.)
This week, Trevor interviews Shane and Shannon Harper about their youngest son, Sam. Sam is a bit of a celebrity at our church. He's cute, he's happy, he's sneaky, and did we say he was cute? Sam also has Down's Syndrome. The Harpers talk about what it was like to be given this very particular gift. Give this episode a listen and be encouraged.
On this week's episode Trevor interviews Mr. Paul Bull, a saint from right here in Greer. Trevor asks him about his life, when he became a Christian, and why he devotes himself to (at 82 years old!) to the Greer Soup Kitchen, Greer Community Ministires, Meals on Wheels, etc. Give this episode a listen; I think you'll be encouraged.
What's the logic behind each bit of our Sunday worship gathering? Give this episode a listen to find out!
Why does our church worship the way that it does, using responsive readings, traditional confessions, scripted prayers, and the like? Trevor and JC discuss that on this week's episode.
In the New Testament, The End Times are held out as a source of comfort and hope. But often times, we find ourselves confused and intimidated by the topic. What does the New Testament say about the End? What have Christians always believed about the End? Give this episode a listen as Trevor and Jon Hyatt seek to bring some clarity here.
The books Trevor mentioned:
The God Who is There (Don Carson): https://www.amazon.com/God-Who-There-Finding-Place/dp/0801013720
Kingdom, Hope, and the End of the World (Ian Paul): https://grovebooks.co.uk/products/b-82-kingdom-hope-and-the-end-of-the-world-the-now-and-not-yet-of-eschatology
Trevor's email if you want to complain to him about his hot take on LEFT BEHIND: josh@tcgreerstation.com
This week Trevor is joined by Ken Vickery, pastor of Victor Baptist Church. What's Ken's story? How'd he end up at Victor? What's Victor's story? Give this episode a listen and be encouraged by God's grace in the legacy of Victor Baptist.
It's almost Easter! Christians all over the world will be celebrating the same thing together: Jesus' resurrection from the dead. What does Jesus' defeat of death mean for us? What did Jesus accomplish in this? What cash value does this have for us? Why does Paul say Christians should be pitied among all people if Jesus has not been raised? And what about Amish men who can't grow beards? Jim Thompson (teaching pastor at Fellowship Greenville) will answer some of those questions on this week's episode.
All Christians wrestle with doubt at some point in their discipleship. What are the causes? What can be done about it? Should we just ignore it? Trevor, Jim Slice, and Billy Cannada spend some time talking through their personal experiences with this issue.
Also Billy hates oatmeal creme pies.
There's nothing quite as satisfying as getting something done. This week Hannah Koeschel joins Trevor to discuss productivity. Should Christians be about productivity? What do they mean when they say Christians should be productive? How does one determine what to devote themselves to? And what does Hannah recommend for seasons of funk?
Give this episode a listen and let us know what you think!
The book Hannah mentioned: https://www.amazon.com/Do-More-Better-Practical-Productivity/dp/1941114172
The pimento cheese sandwich Hannah mentioned: https://www.stompinggroundsgreer.com/
Opening Song: https://sojournmusic.bandcamp.com/track/evergreen
What should we do about those things that good, Bible-believing, gospel-preaching, Jesus-loving Christians disagree on? Not issues like baptism, the Lord's Supper, or even the end times, but those third tier issues - like dress, food, schooling, media, etc.
How should we regard these things? And what should we do when two Christians convictions on these issues bump into one another? Give this episode a listen as Trevor, Bryce Harrison, and Jon Hyatt discuss the liberty of conscience.
Opening Song: "Evergreen" by Sojourn Music: https://sojournmusic.bandcamp.com/track/evergreen
Book referenced: "Conscience" by Andy Nasselli: https://www.amazon.com/Conscience-Andrew-Naselli/dp/1433550741
In this special extended edition of The Weekly (our 30th episode!), Trevor and Jim Slice consider the Sabbath. Is it binding on Christians? Is there any place for the Sabbath in our lives today? More broadly, what does it mean for Jesus to fulfill the Law? How should Christians think about our relationship to the Law of Moses?
Give this extended episode a listen! Also special thanks to Jesus for freeing us to eat pork.
This week, Trevor continues his conversation through the ordinary means of grace with our church planting resident, Bryce Harrison. The ordinary means of grace - those small, mostly overlooked disciplines that God has given us to grow our faith, hope, and love - are important for us to devote ourselves to. Unfortunately, of them all, baptism and the Lord's Supper tend to be given the least amount of attention. How can we "do" them well? Give this episode a listen.
Opening song: Evergreen (Sojourn Music): https://sojournmusic.bandcamp.com/track/evergreen
This week we continue our walk through the ordinary means of grace. Those small, mostly overlooked disciplines that God has given us to grow our faith, hope, and love. Today, Trevor and Jim talk about bible intake: reading our bibles, being good sermon-listeners, and Jim's newly discovered favorite beverage.
Opening song: Evergreen (Sojourn Music): https://sojournmusic.bandcamp.com/track/evergreen
Bai Cocofusion: https://amzn.to/2E5I7tE
Brussels Sprouts: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brussels_sprout
The God Who is There (Don Carson) - video series: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rO2ZodTbNdU
Stranger on the Road to Emmaus (John Cross): https://amzn.to/2SQXL6x
Robert Murray M'Cheyne Bible Reading Plan: https://www.mcheyne.info/calendar.pdf
Slugs & Bugs (Randall Goodgame): https://slugsandbugs.com/
This week begins a series on the ordinary means of grace; those practices God ordinarily uses to transform us into Christ's likeness over time. Trevor is joined by Adam 'Gumby' Cooper to discuss prayer: why it's important, why we typically resist it, and strategies for improving your practices.
The resources mentioned this week:
A Simple Way to Pray (Martin Luther): https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Way-Pray-Martin-Luther/dp/0664238394
Praying the Bible (Donald Whitney): https://www.amazon.com/Praying-Bible-Donald-S-Whitney/dp/1433547848
Opening song: Evergreen (Sojourn Music): https://sojournmusic.bandcamp.com/track/evergreen
In which Trevor references CS Lewis (eye-roll) and Jon plans to throw his phone out the window. Trevor and Jon also offer three practical things they intended to do in light of this book.
Book available here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1433552434/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
Opening song: "Evergreen" by Sojourn: https://sojournmusic.bandcamp.com/track/evergreen
In which Jon and Trevor discuss how you should be like an elderly woman at a Johnny Depp movie premiere.
Book available here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1433552434/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
Opening song: "Evergreen" by Sojourn (https://sojournmusic.bandcamp.com/track/evergreen)
We love technology. We often find ourselves excited by new tech and devices and trinkets. And Christians have always been in favor of technological advancement. It’s part of our convictions around being made in God’s image - that we were made to create! But all tech comes with a cost because all tech changes us.
In this episode, Trevor and Jon Hyatt begin part 1 of a conversation about Tony Reinke's book, "12 Ways Your Phone is Changing You."
Reinke writes: “[I]s my smartphone a hostile enemy? Is it a cultural trinket? is it a legitimate tool? Those are a few of the questions we examine in the pages ahead. Our phones have concentrated powerful technology into a little device we control with our thumbs… All of these realties are changing us; there’s no debate on that. The bigger questions remain: How are our smartphones changing us? and should we be concerned?" (p.39)
How are we being changed? Give us a listen!
Book link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1433552434/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
Opening song: "Evergreen" by Sojourn
We all feel a bit frantic, right? With all the choices and options about what to do and be, we all end up feeling a bit crazy.
This week's episode is the 2nd half of Trevor's conversation with Zach and Sarah Gilliam about the book “3 Big questions for Frantic Families." Give us a listen!
"3 Big Questions" by Patrick Lencioni: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Questions-Frantic-Family-Organization/dp/0787995320
Song credit:
"Crazy" by Gnarls Barkley
We all feel a little bit frantic, chaotic, all over the place, distracted, and overwhelmed. Can anything be done?
In part 1 of this two-part series, Trevor talks with Zach and Sarah Gilliam about the first two questions in the book, "3 Big Questions for Frantic Families" by Patrick Lencioni.
Part 2 of this conversation will be posted next Monday.
3 Big Questions: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Questions-Frantic-Family-Organization/dp/0787995320
The diagram Trevor mentioned: https://www.tablegroup.com/imo/media/doc/Frantic%20Family%20Model.pdf
Song credit:
"Evergreen" by Sojourn
"Zak and Sara" by Ben Folds Five
Another year has come and gone. What were some things we loved about 2018? What were some lessons learned in 2018? What does 2019 hold? What resolutions have we made for 2019?
Trevor and guest, Adam Cooper, talk about 2018, 2019, and more Tom Hanks movies.
What is music, why are Christians so bout it bout it, and which Bible story is least appropriate for being made into a Fisher Price play set? This and more in this week's episode.
Intro song is "Evergreen" by Sojourn. Outro song is "Joy to the World" by Sufjan Stevens.
Tradition. The word conjures up all sorts of things, good and bad, for each of us. But what is it? Is it good? Is it bad? What is our culture's general disposition towards it? What does Jesus say about it?
In this episode, Jim Slice and Trevor Hoffman consider the usefulness of tradition and (briefly) disagree on whether or not Die Hard is a Christmas movie.
"The fear of man is snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe." Proverbs 29:25
Do you find yourself worried about the impression you made in that conversation with a coworker? Do you find yourself frequently preoccupied with how you look?
The scripture teaches us that fear of a man is a real temptation for many of us. But what can we do about it? David Eill and Jon Hyatt hop on the show to give some insight.
"When People Are Big and God is Small" by Ed Welch: https://amzn.to/2BmwsGM
We spent a total of about 315 minutes in Matthew 8-10, a teaching series we called, "The Conquest of the King," but we found ourselves wishing for just a few more. What are some aspects of these chapters we didn't address in our sermons? Tune in to this week's episode.
The pastors' go to resources this series: - D.A. Carson: https://amzn.to/2Bmmm8Y - Frederick Bruner: https://amzn.to/2qYzTO2 - R.T. France: https://amzn.to/2KpDYDO - Peter Leithart: https://amzn.to/2zi227i
Paul tells us that we are to "not grow weary of doing good" in Gal 6:9. But how? How can we be zealous for doing what is good without burning out?
Today Trevor and JC talk around a really helpful little book and how to faithfully work and minister without flaming out.
"Zeal Without Burnout" by Christopher Ash: https://amzn.to/2Q1RG4T
That Yoda video JC mentioned: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9t-slLl30E
It's almost Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving turkey and mashed potatoes and Bacon Brothers exist. BUT WHY? Let's ask Jim Thompson, equipping & teaching pastor at Fellowship Greenville.
Bacon Bro's: https://www.baconbrospublichouse.com
The week's episode features Adam and Katie Cooper discussing their journey towards adoption. Give this a listen and have your heart filled.
Resources on adoption: "Adopted for Life" by Russell Moore: https://amzn.to/2yQkOlT A sermon from Tony Merida: https://vimeo.com/142090057
Happy Reformation Day! Or Halloween if you're less spiritual than us. Why talk about the Reformation? Is it still relevant? What are the Five Solas and what have they do with us today?
Give us a listen to find out!
Ever frozen a fudge round? Ever climbed a greased pole in Pumpkintown? Is Robert related to Shaq? All this and more on this week's episode. Robert McKinney is the pastor of admin & discipleship at our sister church, The Church at Blue Ridge.
Robert shares about his family, life, and the joys of ministry in Blue Ridge. Visit tcblueridge.com to learn more about Robert & Ted's work just up the road from TCGS.
How ought we live out our discipleship at the workplace?
We spend the vast majority of our time at work. How ought we think about that? Jim Slice sheds some light on this crucial topic.
A Theology of Work by Bob Thune: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/what-are-you-called-to-do-a-theology-of-work/
Every Good Endeavor by Tim Keller: https://www.amazon.com/Every-Good-Endeavor-Connecting-Your/dp/1594632820
Joe and the Volcano: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099892/
We're joined this week by pastor/planter, Will Broadus of Reconcile Church.
What's Will's story? Why plant Reconcile? How do Chinese street vendors prepare squid? This and more on this week's episode of the Weekly.
Reconcile Church: http://reconcilecc.org/
Happy October!
What is a disciple and how can a church devote themselves to making them? These are the types of questions Jim Putnam answers in his book, "Discipleshift," available here: https://www.amazon.com/DiscipleShift-Steps-Church-Disciples-Exponential/dp/0310492629
Jon Hyatt and Trevor Hoffman talk around the disciple-making process, identifying where you are in your walk as a disciple, and the true Christmas miracle of Frosty the Snowman's perfectly spherical shape.
On July 29, our church had its first worship gathering at Chandler Creek Elementary School. What's exciting about this move? What challenges come from this move? Why is Jon so bad at dancing? We'll answer two of these questions on this episode of The Weekly.
On Saturday, September 22nd, our church will be making a push to invite neighbors into our homes. Why are we doing this? What do we hope comes from this? What does David do when Chick-fil-a isn't an option? Give us a listen to find out.
How has God used evangelism & discipleship in the life of Jim Slice? Trevor interviews Jim (the Elder) about his experience with church planting, evangelism, discipleship, and chicken enchiladas.
The New Testament uses three tenses of the word "saved." We have been saved, we are being saved, and we will be saved. What does this mean for us in real time?
Trevor talks with Josh and Charlotte Styles about chronic pain, hoping in Jesus, and Josh yelling at students.
"God is working throughout your life – on a scale of days, years, and decades – to remake you into the likeness of Jesus. " - David Powlison
What does Frankenstein have to do with growth in Christ? How ought we think of obedience in our life as disciples? Jim Slice (the Younger) brings his story and wisdom to bear.
David Powlison's quote comes from this book: https://www.amazon.com/Does-Sanctification-Work-David-Powlison/dp/1433556103
Why study Jesus' death? Isn't that just the front door of Christianity?
This week, JC Spearman, Jon Hyatt, and Trevor talk about a book our staff is reading and discuss why it's important for Christians to remember again and again Jesus' death and resurrection.
The Crucified King: https://www.amazon.com/Crucified-King-Atonement-Biblical-Systematic/dp/0310516749
50 Reasons Jesus Came to Die (Free PDF): https://document.desiringgod.org/fifty-reasons-why-jesus-came-to-die-en.pdf?ts=1446647227
A Gospel Primer: https://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Primer-Christians-Learning-Glories/dp/1885904673
Have you ever read a passage and been totally confused? What are some helpful tips for navigating those types of scriptures? Take a listen as Josh Styles unpacks all the world's mysteries for us.
Trevor's sermon on the passage: http://www.tcgreerstation.com/sermons/sojourners-like-jesus/
"Look at the Book" examples from 1 Peter 3 passage:
https://www.desiringgod.org/labs/how-do-you-decrypt-confusing-bible-verses
https://www.desiringgod.org/labs/does-baptism-save-you
Other helpful resources:
https://www.9marks.org
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org
https://www.desiringgod.org
Welcome to the Weekly. What is it? Who is it for? Why are we doing this? Give us a listen and be sure to subscribe.
Music: Evergreen by Sojourn