Better Together: Recent Episodes
NAFWB
The Better Together Podcast produced by the National Association of Free Will Baptists features short, practical, and informative interviews with people from the "trenches" of ministry.
Glen Johnson served as the pastor of Good News Free Will Baptist Church for over 36 years. He recently retired to start Kingdom Legacy Ministries, with the focus of inspiring people to live today with forever in mind. Find more at https://www.mykingdomlegacy.org. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Ministry #Legacy #ChristianLiving
Dr. Gerald Prichard, teacher, scientist, and author brings together scientific reasoning and careful biblical study to help us understand the teachings of Jesus. Dr. Pritchard is pastor of First Dayton FWB Church. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Bible #Science #Jesus #Christianity
Brian Williams is the speaker for the Monday night service at the 2026 National Convention. He shares about his ministry at NorthPoint Church and previews his message from John 17, "Focus on the Church." #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Focus #Church #Ministry
Jon Forrest is the speaker for the Sunday morning service at the 2026 National Convention. He shares about his youth ministry at Bethel Free Will Baptist Church and previews his message, "Focus on Loving God." Sunday morning service will be a joint worship with adults and Vertical Three teens. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Focus #LovingGod
Pastor Isaiah Hatfield is the speaker for the Sunday night service at the 2026 National Convention. He shares about his ministry at McCorkle Free Will Baptist Church and previews his message from Luke 10, "Focus on Loving Your Neighbor." Isaiah also serves as moderator of the West Virginia State Association of Free Will Baptists. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Focus #TheGoodSamaritan #Luke10
“The big thing is digging deeper wells, making sure you had the depth to carry you in the dry days of ministry."
Dr. Jeff Crabtree shares things he learned early on in ministry that helped sustain him through years of pastoring and church planting, and practices he kept with his family that maintained a home of discipleship and growth. Dr. Crabtree served as a pastor, a church planter for North American Ministries, trustee on the Welch College board, and now serves in the Ohio Bible Institute for the Ohio State Association of Free Will Baptists.
Dr. Crabtree is the Tuesday night speaker at the 2026 National Convention, with the theme “Focus on the Family” (Ephesians 5:21-6:4). Find all convention information at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Ministry #Family #Discipleship #Focus
Dr. Cheryl Jeffers, director of West Virginia Free Will Baptist church camp, discusses the legacy that church camp has throughout history, specifically among Free Will Baptists. She also introduces a research study that will be used to measure the impact Free Will Baptist events have on our young people. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Camp #ChurchCamp #Youth #Children
Ken Akers of North American Ministries and Bill Hayes of Hillview FWB Church preview the opportunities to serve in Impact Columbus. Impact is the service project held Saturday, July 18, before the National Convention. Projects will be held at three churches in the Columbus area.
Register by Monday, June 22: https://fwbmastersmen.org/impact/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Service #Outreach
“We want to empower [students] to be a part of planting churches, pastoring churches, serving in the local church, and all of those things.”
Josh Bennett and Kylah Walker of Free Will Baptist North American Ministries join the podcast to introduce Frontier Student Missions, a new program to give high school students the opportunity to experience church planting and ministry opportunities across North America. Find more or apply at https://frontierstudents.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ChurchPlanting #Ministry #Missions #Students
He was “born” into missions. Kenneth Eagleton, director of global partnerships for IM Inc., is the speaker for the Wednesday night service at the 2026 National Convention. He shares the history of his life in missions work and previews his sermon from Matthew 28.
The Wednesday night service will highlight FWB missions work around the world as we recognize church planters and international missionaries. Find all convention information at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Missions #Focus #V3Con2026
“There are so many things to be involved in and to leave equipped and encouraged, but there’s also the factor of our Free Will Baptist family getting together like we do."
Convention Manager Ryan Lewis previews the 2026 National Convention, where there will be something for all ages. The Convention is returning to Columbus for the first time since 1983, and Ryan talks about the options, convenience, and affordability attendees will find in the city.
Find all convention information at http://nafwb.org/convention. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ExperienceColumbus #Focus #V3Con2026
When thousands of Free Will Baptists descend on Columbus in July, evening services offer a special opportunity to worship together with like-minded believers.
Kevin Justice, Sam Harris, and Joshua Riggs from the convention worship planning team preview the music for the week and offer opportunities for you to be involved in the choir, orchestra, or praise team. Find the information at https://www.fwbworship.com under the “NAFWB” tab. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Focus #V3Con2026 #Music #Worship
“It’s very important that we bring deacons along and give them a biblical basis and understanding in how they can operate and function like the New Testament wants us to.”
Danny Williams talks about the work he’s doing with churches helping train deacons and understand their vital role in the local church. Danny serves as executive director of Alabama Free Will Baptists. NAFWB will be hosting webinars this fall to help churches with deacon roles and training (https://nafwb.org/grow). #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Deacons #Church #ChurchLeadership
With Mother’s Day coming this weekend, Kristi Johnson shares practical, tangible ways churches and congregations can support and help mothers. She also provides ways mothers can continue to disciple their children through everyday activities. Kristi serves as Executive Director of WNAC. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Mother #Mothers #MothersDay #Discipleship
“I see how much people have helped me, so if I can be of any help to someone else, we want to be helpful to them.”
Dr. W. Jackson Watts shares how his experiences in ministry have shaped the pastor he is today, and the ways those experiences have equipped him to help churches with their constitution, bylaws, and other documents.
Dr. Watts is assistant moderator of the NAFWB, pastor of Grace FWB Church in Arnold, MO, and part of the Rekindle Coaching Program (nafwb.org/rekindle). #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #ChurchConstitution #Bylaws
Richland Ave Financial President & CEO John Brummitt joins the podcast to discuss the benefit of a retirement account in their program, available for anyone employed by a Free Will Baptist ministry. They have expanded their ministry to include institutional investing and financial education. Find more about their services at https://richlandavefinancial.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Retirement #Investing #Future
“My emphasis and my heartbeat is on that generational impact that I know endowments really can provide.”
New Free Will Baptist Foundation CEO and Director Brent Patrick shares the path that led him to the role, the vision he has for the Foundation’s future, and how he hopes it shapes the denomination and Kingdom for eternity.Find more about the Foundation and the financial services they offer at https://www.fwbgifts.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Foundation #Investments #Endowments #Finances #Stewardship
Executive Director Kristi Johnson shares updates about her vision and direction for the future of WNAC. Their mission is to provide opportunities for each woman to fulfill the Great Commission through her God-designed roles at home and abroad. Find more about WNAC and the ways they can equip women of all ages at https://www.wnac.org. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #WomensMinistry
“Instead of saying, ‘I wish we could,’ just say ‘Lord, how can we?’”
Veteran church planter and pastor Bob Lewis talks about the ways being a faithful giver produces fruit in a variety of ways. Bob is part of the Rekindle Coaching Program, a team of pastors that provides free coaching for pastors in the ministry. Find more at https://nafwb.org/rekindle/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Giving #Stewardship
“It’s about study, it’s about community, and it’s about outreach; and so if your Sunday School is not doing all three of those, you’re really missing out.”
Dr. Ron Hunter of D6 Family Ministry discusses the nature of Sunday School and small groups and how critical they are to the discipleship model of a church. Through its generationally-aligned curriculum, D6 Family Ministry provides gospel-centered, biblically-grounded truth to every age group. Find more at https://d6family.com/curriculum/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #SundaySchool #SmallGroups #Discipleship #Curriculum
Mason McClure shares how a friendship formed in the US and a passion to learn Spanish led to him moving to Madrid, Spain. Mason works in the public schools in Madrid and helps with the FWB church in Alpedrete as he continues to seek God’s will for his life. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #GodsWill #Missions #Travel
“We’re an embassy for Christ’s Kingdom, and that Kingdom is made up of every nation, tribe, and language.”
Pastor Mike Morrison of Collin Creek Church tells how their church has shifted its focus in reaching its community. When no one in the church spoke a second language, the church used tools at its disposal to begin ministering and communicating to the diverse community God had placed around it. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Outreach #Community #Church
“I realized pretty quickly it’s not so much about proving God; it’s just about testifying about God.”
Aaron Pontious describes how he embraced the challenge as a new family in a new place of getting out of his bubble and interacting with people who do not know Jesus. Aaron pastors Rejoice Church Columbia. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Witness #Outreach #Christianity
“We may never know the impact we’ve had on people just by being kind and sharing love with people just by serving them.”
Sandra Hall joins the podcast to share her career experience in hospitality and how it translates to creating a culture of hospitality at church. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Hospitality #Church #Care
“A good curriculum is going to have a scope and sequence that provides an overarching scope of the Scriptures and takes you through the entire story of the Bible.”
Katie Greenwood of D6 Family Ministry describes the value of a curriculum for all ages and the tools it can provide for teachers and leaders in a church. Find more about the D6 Curriculum at https://d6family.com/curriculum/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Discipleship #SundaySchool #Curriculum
“Even today, just taking the time to write something down means a lot.” Pastor Randy Johnson of Valley Forge FWB Church tells how a simple note of encouragement from 7th grade impacted his life and led him to begin using a seemingly outdated method of communication that continues to make a lasting impression. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Notes #Cards #Encouragement
“The truth is, you can’t avoid [doctrine], because it’s a matter of what we believe. And that, of course, is simply a matter of trying to express what the Bible teaches for us, what God has said.”
Dr. Robert Picirilli, Free Will Baptist author and theologian, discusses the importance of doctrine and how it must continue to be valued and taught by Christians.
The doctrinal resources mentioned in the podcast (from NAFWB and D6 Family):
Free Will Baptist Treatise: https://nafwb.org/treatise/.
Free Will Baptist Catechism: https://nafwb.org/catechism/.
Free Will Baptist Doctrines: https://bit.ly/45DO7rf.
The Free Will Baptist Handbook: https://bit.ly/4thA8ld.
The Quest for Truth: https://bit.ly/49RV7U1.
NAFWB #BetterTogether #Theology #Doctrine #Beliefs #Christianity
“The real heartbeat behind [CTS] is we want to see our local churches strengthened and grow and people use their gifts and talents in the local church.”
Derek Altom of D6 Family and Vertical Three Ministries talks about the value of Church Training Service (CTS), how groups can get involved, and the impact it can have on individuals and churches. Find more about CTS and the Vertical Three Conference at https://verticalthree.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Focus #V3Con2026 #Discipleship #Talents
“What I realized was that those who really were the ones who contributed the most to the ministry were those who were involved in more things, not fewer things.”
From his role in the TN House of Representatives to Dean of online & adult studies at Welch College, William Slater leads a busy, full life. He shares ways we can all live engaging and involved lives that can impact our families and the community around us.
Find more about the programs Mr. Slater discussed available from Welch College:
Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.): https://bit.ly/4jLT5rF.
The Certificate of Biblical & Ministry Studies: https://bit.ly/45Uy4Fq.
NAFWB #BetterTogether #Ministry #Life #Education
Pastor Luke Johnson and church member Jacob Blackwelder of Highland Drive Free Will Baptist Church share the impact a weekly prayer team praying during services has had on the team and the church as a whole. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Prayer #Pray #Praying
“The early church gave a great deal of attention to the second coming—they were looking for Jesus to come back. If they were looking for Jesus to come back [2,000 years ago], how much more should we be looking for Him to return?”
Dr. Robert Picirilli discusses the motivation that led him to write his latest book, “Mere Eschatology: A Biblical Study of the Second Coming and the End of the Age.” The book is available from D6 Family: https://bit.ly/3KExHrv/ #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Eschatology #EndTimes #SecondComing
Retired pastor Nelson Henderson reflects on his call to ministry as a young man from Northwest Arkansas, which eventually led to a fruitful pastorate at First Free Will Baptist Church of Pocahontas, Arkansas for 36 ½ years. He discusses the steps he took that led to his longevity in the ministry. Pastor Nelson is part of the Rekindle Coaching Program for pastors who may be seeking a veteran pastor to help coach them in ministry. Find more at https://nafwb.org/rekindle/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Ministry #Pastoring #Pastor
After pastoring in the “buckle” of the Bible Belt, Seth Price and Corbin Madden felt led to plan a church in Bozeman, Montana. They share their burden for the area and their progress as they raise support. Mission Montana is a church planting project through Free Will Baptist North American Ministries.
Find out more about the Maddens and Prices: https://fwbnam.com/madden/ and https://fwbnam.com/price/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ChurchPlanting #Bozeman #BozemanMT #BozemanMontana
“It has been a dream of ours to include addiction recovery in the ministry of Family Ministries, and God has opened those doors now for that to take place.”
Free Will Baptist Family Ministries CEO Jim McComas talks about the new addiction recovery program now available for adult males through Exodus 14 Ministries Inc. Those needing help (or who have a family member who does) can call 423-278-2701 to find out more. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Addiction #Recovery #Rehab
“It is a teaching that is especially attractive to people in areas that are very poor, in places that are hopeless.”
Dr. Kenneth Eagleton discusses common tenants of Prosperity Gospel teaching, which has spread like wildfire to many places around the world. Kenneth refutes the philosophies of those that adhere to it. Kenneth is director of global partnerships for IM, Inc. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ProsperityGospel
Len Scott of Mission Four18 in Jamaica talks about the devastation Hurricane Melissa brought to the island and the way Free Will Baptists (and others) responded with prayer and support. He also shares ways people can continue to help through the recovery process, including a relief trip January 31-February 6.
Find more about how you can help with Mission Four18 efforts. Website: www.MissionFour18.org. Giving: www.MissionFour18.org/give. Email: lscott@missionfour18.org. Phone/WhatsApp: 931-249-1027. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #HurricaneMelissa #Jamaica
“Our goal was to see some of the biggest takeaways that we could grasp and attach ourselves to as a church.”
Pastor Mitch Wagner describes how Summit Fellowship Church used their Know Your Community report to pinpoint specific needs in the community and found members of the congregation who were equipped to minister to those needs.
Find more about Know Your Community at http://nafwb.org/know/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #Community #Outreach #Ministry
“Absolutely, I think Christians grieve, and I think it’s a misnomer to say they don’t.”
Tom Jones discusses grief, the various ways it can appear in our lives, and the ways we can process it. Tom is a Licensed Professional Counselor for Keystone Christian Counseling and works with the NAFWB as part of the Refresh Counseling Program.
Read his blog, “Grief: One of the Most Dreaded Human Experiences,” from D6 Family: https://bit.ly/3X6Kdm7. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Grief #Emotion #MentalHealth
“To me, intentional discipleship is spending life with the people that you’ve led to the Lord that you are trying to mentor.”
Chad Kivette describes how every Christian should be engaged in intentional discipleship. Chad pastor of New Life Church Amory, MS, a partner of Free Will Baptist North American Ministries.
Read Chad’s article, “From the Highways to the Hedges” in the October-November issue of ONE Magazine: https://www.onemag.org/hedges.htm. For Armon Jorden’s story on his encounter with Chad, check out this episode of the Better Together Podcast: https://bit.ly/3Xt2KZS. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Discipleship #Life #Mentoring
“It’s just so unexpected where I’m at right now; that day significantly changed my life.”
Armon Jorden talks about a chance encounter twenty years ago that had an eternal impact on his life.
Armon and his wife, Yvette, are planting Ho’omana Church in Hilo, Hawaii, with Free Will Baptist North American Ministries (https://fwbnam.com/jorden/). Read Armon’s article, “Ordinary Days,” from the October-November issue of ONE Magazine: https://www.onemag.org/ordinary_days.htm. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ChurchPlanting #LifeChange #Testimony
“What we like to offer young adults is those experiences on ways to serve, places to serve, and ‘how can I use my talents for the Lord?’, and this kind of activates that.”
Caleb and Johnny Saunders of Teamwork Missions discuss the opportunities their organization offers for churches, youth groups, and individuals to take life-changing mission trips to open their eyes to where God may be calling them. Teamwork Missions is a partner of FWB North American Ministries. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Missions #Outreach #Calling #Ministry
“Many of our churches’ greatest battle is they are inwardly focused. You’ve got to focus to the community; you’ve got to focus outwardly.”
Dr. Tim York shares about the resources offered by the National Association of Free Will Baptists for churches, equipping them to reach and minister to their communities. Find the resources at https://nafwb.org/resources/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #Ministry #Outreach
*We apologize for the technical difficulties with the audio quality.
“If we remove the veil that we think is covering pastoral families, we can understand that they need us just as much as we need them.”
Robyn Ezzell of Two Paths Crossing discusses some of the burdens carried by pastors’ wives and the ways congregations can help minister to and care for their pastor’s family.
Robyn is part of the Refresh Counseling Program of the NAFWB. Find out how you can support this invaluable program at https://nafwb.org/refreshcounseling/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Pastors #PastorAppreciation #PastorAppreciationMonth #PastorsWives
“It’s a different time in pastoring, and a lot of guys are struggling with staying in the ministry, staying in the pastorate, they feel like failures, so it’s really important for the church to show love back to them.”
Dr. Tim York talks about the critical need for churches to value their pastor and bless him and show him support, both during Pastor Appreciation Month and throughout the year.
Dr. York is moderator of the NAFWB and pastors two churches: The Grove Church and Rejoice Church. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Pastors #PastorAppreciation #PastorAppreciationMonth
Dr. Gordon Penfold joins the podcast to discuss his latest book, “Mending Fences,” a biblically grounded and theologically compelling guide for reconciling broken relationships. Dr. Penfold is one of the founders of the Advanced Pastoral Network. “Mending Fences” is available from Amazon: http://bit.ly/3IUmz8P. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Reconciliation #MendingFences #BrokenRelationships #Book
“When [someone falls], from the Scriptural standpoint, we should be running towards those people, but the tendency is for us to run away from them.”
Three men join the podcast to recount the story of one pastor’s fall and the grace and restoration process that followed. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Restoration #Sin
“He understood the position that he held and deliberately made choices to disciple and influence students in a way that would be beneficial for them for life.”
Eric Thomsen reflects on the influence his high school teacher, Mr. Trout, had on his life, and the opportunity teachers have to make a lasting impact.
Eric is managing editor of ONE Magazine. Read more in “Upstream With Mr. Trout:” https://www.onemag.org/first_glimpse123.htm. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Teachers #Students #Impact
Northwest Community Church in Chicago has 66,127 people that live within 5 minutes of their church. Christine Lewis joins the podcast to discuss how the church has used its results of the Know Your Community report to meet physical needs of their neighbors while having the opportunity to share the Gospel with them.
Find out more about the KYC report at https://nafwb.org/know/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Outreach #Neighbor #Neighborhood #Church
“Too many pastors say, ‘I know what my church thinks,’ but they’ve never really asked the question.”
Dr. Chuck Lawless of Church Answers and Southeastern Seminary discusses the Know Your Church Report, a 160-item questionnaire completed by a sampling of a church’s membership that includes a detailed health report for the church.
The Know Your Church report is available to NAFWB churches for $130 (60% off the regular price!). Find out more at https://churchanswers.com/partner-page-national-association-of-free-will-baptists/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #ChurchAssessment
Sam Rainer discusses best practices of ways for a church to assimilate regular attendees of church into becoming church members by using “The Complete Membership Class Toolkit.” He also discusses the “Good News Neighbors Toolkit,” a simple plan for every size church to reach its community with the Gospel.
Sam is President of Church Answers. Through a partnership with Church Answers, member churches of the NAFWB are able to get these toolkits for 50% off the regular price: https://churchanswers.com/partner-page-national-association-of-free-will-baptists/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #Outreach #Gospel #Neighbors
Doug Spillman reflects on a well-lived life as a soldier, Deputy U.S. Marshal, state trooper, and Free Will Baptist deacon. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Christian #Testimony #Servant
“It’s a great, easy thing for people to do to get their feet wet with reaching out.”
Matt McCraw describes “Invite Your One,” an outreach strategy his church uses to encourage members and regular attenders to invite one person to attend church on a special emphasis Sunday.
Matt is senior consultant with Church Answers and pastor of First Baptist Church, Bartow, Florida. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #Outreach
How do you end up on the mission field, and of all places, Russia? “Well…it certainly wasn’t my design.”
Mike Corley describes his journey from Army basic training to various points in his ministry career (some he can’t talk about), leading him to places and positions he never would have imagined. Mike is pastor of First FWB Baptist Church of Jonesboro, Arkansas. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Missions #GodsCall #GodsWill
“The whole purpose of it is what are the key resources that we can provide to help churches without breaking the bank and being the type of servant that we need to be.”
Thom Rainer, founder of Church Answers, discusses the partnership that was formed between the NAFWB and Church Answers. Through the partnership, Church Answers provides many of their church health resources with exclusive discounts for Free Will Baptist churches. Find the partnership page at bit.ly/4mqLvCR. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ChurchAnswers #Church #Ministry #ChurchHealth
“As a chaplain, it really broadens your scope of being able to minister to people who have no faith (or a different faith) background and you want to try to reach them where they’re at.”
Sam Smith, pastor of Foundation FWB Church, talks about the events that led him into local chaplaincy and how it has expanded his opportunities of ministry.
Sam’s article, “Local Chaplaincy,” is available in the June-July issue of ONE Magazine: https://www.onemag.org/local_chaplaincy.htm. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Chaplain #Chaplaincy
“It brings Free Will Baptists together from across the globe and serves as a way for us to understand the greater Free Will Baptist family.”
Kenneth Eagleton, director of global partnerships for IM, Inc., describes the International Fellowship of Free Will Baptist Churches. The fellowship will hold its triennial meeting in Ivory Coast in August. Join their Facebook group (search “IFOFWBC”) to follow these Free Will Baptist ministries around the world. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #International #Church
Joel Teague previews his message for the Wednesday evening service at the 2025 National Convention. Joel will explore the theme, “Fulfill Your Mission: Love People Like God Loves Them” from Jonah 4. Joel shares his story of growing up as a missionary kid and later answering the call himself.
Joel and Lydie Teague are planting a church with IM, Inc. in France. Find more about their ministry at https://iminc.org/missionary/joel-and-lydie-teague/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #AcceptTheMission #Jonah #Missions
Shiloh Hackett previews his message for the Tuesday evening service at the 2025 National Convention. Shiloh will explore the theme, “God’s Mission for the Reluctant: Will You Say Yes?” from Jonah 3.
Shiloh is pastor of Bethlehem FWB Church in Ashland City, TN. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #AcceptTheMission #Jonah
Doug Earls previews his message for the Monday evening service at the 2025 National Convention. Doug will explore the theme, “When Disobeying Your Mission Sinks You” from Jonah 2. He shares his personal experience of leaving ministry for a time.
Doug served as long-time pastor of Calvary Chapel FWB Church and now serves in the retiree ministry.. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #AcceptTheMission #Jonah
Josh Bush previews his message for the Sunday evening service at the 2025 National Convention. Josh will explore the theme, “When God Calls, Will You Accept the Mission?” from Jonah 1.
Josh is pastor of Cross Point Free Will Baptist Church in Wichita, Kansas. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #AcceptTheMission
Aaron Pontious previews his message for the Sunday morning service at the 2025 national convention. In a joint service with the Vertical Three Conference teens, Aaron will explore the theme, “Build, Plant, Seek Peace as Your Mission in a World Turned Upside Down” from Jeremiah 29.
Aaron is pastor of Rejoice Church Columbia in Columbia, MO, and on staff with the Truth and Peace Student Leadership Conference. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #AcceptTheMission
Ethan McCraney discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of ministering to military personnel and their families, especially those who find themselves as “third culture kids.”
Ethan is a missionary with Cadence International and a ministry partner with Free Will Baptist North American Ministries. Find more about his ministry at https://www.fwbnam.com/emccraney/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Military #Chaplaincy
“It’s a real culture shock for kids today because they’re not used to being away from their electronics or their devices, and they get a place to sit and be still.”
Coleman Shepherd of Camp Caleb talks about the unique opportunity church camp has to be intentional with the Gospel with young people that the local church can’t always replicate. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Camp #ChurchCamp #YouthMinistry #Gospel
“I saw [camp] as a way of impacting kids and by extension impacting families and churches in a way I couldn’t do at home.”
Stan Coker, camp manager at Cumberland Camp, talks about the importance of camp and how it is needed today more than ever to get kids away from technology and get them focused on the Lord. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Camp #ChurchCamp
“What is special about church camp is that it gets you out of the mundane routine of daily life…we’re able to unplug from the norm and the noise and let God just speak to us.” Dylan Persinger discusses the circumstances that led to his calling to the ministry and how church camp has a great impact on the lives of those who attend. Dylan is youth pastor at Emmanuel FWB Church and involved in Indiana FWB Youth Camp. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ChurchCamp #YouthCamp #Camp #Ministry
April Jimmeye shares the challenges experienced by those with autism and ways the church can minister to them and their families. April is a board-certified behavior analyst with two children on the autism spectrum herself.
April also presented “Making Your Church Autism Friendly” as part of the Growing Together with WNAC series: https://youtu.be/O_Xn0Szaon4?feature=shared&t=4. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Autism #AutismAwareness #AutismAwarenessMonth
Derek Altom, director of events for D6 Family, previews this year’s Vertical Three Conference, held in conjunction with the National Association of Free Will Baptists, Inc. The CTS Ministry Expo, activities, and worship for all ages provide opportunities for students to develop their leadership, discover their talents, and dedicate their hearts to faithful service of the Lord—the mission of Vertical Three Ministries. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #StandTall #v3con2025 #AcceptTheMission #D6 #StudentMinistry
Ryan Lewis, convention manager for the National Association of Free Will Baptists, joins the podcast to help attendees prepare for the upcoming National Convention and Vertical Three Conference to be held in Kansas City July 20-23.
Pre-Registration for the convention is open, and hotel reservations open May 12.
Find all the convention information at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #AcceptTheMission #V3Con2025
Kendall Ross discusses the path God has led him down, from a mechanical engineering degree to a covocational pastoring role at Ozark Free Will Baptist Church and Associate Vice Chancellor at University of Arkansas – Fort Smith. He tells how his role and the church’s leadership has adapted in a unique circumstance. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #CovocationalPastoring #pastor #Pastoring #Ministry
“[On an airplane] they tell you to make sure you put your oxygen mask on first before you try to help somebody else. So, I felt like if we could get the internal things fixed, then God was going to bless us with other people to come in because we’d be ready for them.”
Shiloh Hackett has led two churches through a revitalization process: South Highland FWB Church and his current church, Bethlehem FWB Church. He talks about some of the steps of the process and the pitfalls and blessings that church revitalization can bring. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #ChurchRevitalization #Ministry #Outreach
Steve and Judy Lytle, retired missionaries of Free Will Baptist International Missions, share the story of Pop and Mom Willey, trailblazing missionaries who were faithful servants to the end.
Steve and Judy wrote about the lives of the Willeys in a chapter of “Arminian Baptists: A Biographical History of Free Will Baptists,” available from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3DwEHCV. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Missions #Missionaries
In 2024, Missouri Free Will Baptists surpassed $1 MILLION in cooperative giving for the year, the first state to reach that mark. MOFWB Executive Director Stan Bunch discusses how they promote and encourage giving in the state, the ministries and opportunities it makes possible, and how cooperative giving benefits the denomination and works around the world. Find more about cooperative giving and The Together Way plan at https://nafwb.org/togetherway/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #CooperativeGiving #Giving
“God places you right where you need to be to be able to be the influence that you should be where you’ve been planted.”
CH (LTC) Kevin Trimble tells of his calling and journey to becoming a chaplain in the U.S. Army, including all of the ways that God has led and provided for him throughout each step. Kevin is a chaplain with Free Will Baptist North American Ministries and now serves as Director for the School for Professional Development at the U.S. Army Institute for Religious Leadership. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Chaplain #Calling #Ministry #Chaplaincy
“I think it’s important when you’re looking at what God’s calling you to do…there are doors that open, there are opportunities that you have [with a STEM background] that you wouldn’t have otherwise.”
Dr. Stephen Beck of Welch College explains the need for Christians in the STEM specialties and the unique opportunities they have to answer their calling to fulfill The Great Commission. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #STEM
“It’s not an easy job… your faith is going to be tested…but at the end of the day, it’s worth the effort because on the other end we have opportunities to share our faith.”
Dr. Greg Ketteman of Welch College shares the value of having Christian teachers in the public school system and the benefits of higher education.
Welch College School of Education and Master of Arts in Teaching offers both regionally and nationally accredited degrees for those seeking a career in education. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Education #Teaching #ChristianEducation
“In the beginning of associations, one of the things Benjamin Randall and others wanted was some type of a common tribunal to help settle doctrinal questions and to help in the process of ordination and examination.”
Stan Bunch, executive director of MOFWB, talks about the history of presbytery boards in the NAFWB and their role in examining and ordaining ministers in the local association. He also discusses resources MOFWB has put in place to assist associations in the process. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #PresybyteryBoards #Ordination #Pastor
“A good bible-based curriculum will help a student develop a biblical worldview and enhance their biblical literacy.”
David Womack of D6 Family Ministry discusses the benefits of using curriculum in small group or Sunday School settings and the positive impact it has on both the student and the teacher. Check out the D6 Family curriculum, “D6 EveryDay Foundations,” and what they have to offer for all ages: https://d6family.com/d6curriculum/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Curriculum #SmallGroup #SundaySchool #BibleStudy
“When church leaders think about threats to safety of the congregation, they think external. But I think the greater threat that is often unseen are internal threats.”
Dr. Sam Rainer shares principles from his book, “Keep My Church Safe,” addressing threats to church congregations and what they can do to protect themselves from those dangers. “Make My Church Safe” is available from Amazon.
Dr. Rainer is president of Church Answers and lead pastor of West Bradenton Baptist Church. He will also be the keynote speaker for the 2025 FWB Leadership Conference: https://nafwb.org/leader. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #ChurchSafety #ChurchSecurity
“BLESS is a free resource that encourage us to pray for our neighbors and gives us opportunities to connect with our neighbors as well.”
Anna Fox explains BLESS, a tool that equips churches to get to know your local community by name, so you can pray for, care for, and share the Gospel with them.
Find more at https://nafwb.org/bless. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Pray #Prayer #Outreach #Community #Gospel
The Shepherding Initiative was started to further address the problem of the shortage of pastors in Free Will Baptists. It is an opportunity for churches seeking a pastor to have shepherding opportunities through coaching and other resources. Dr. Tim York, moderator of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, Inc., discusses the program and the resources available to churches. Find more about the program at https://nafwb.org/shepherding/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #TheShepherdingInitiative
“Endowments are one of the best ways for small gifts to make a big impact.”
Retired Free Will Baptist Foundation Director Bill Evans talks about endowments and how gifts given now can have a perpetual impact on ministries.
The Together Way Trust was established to provide long-term financial resources for national ministries. Find more at https://nafwb.org/togetherway/.
Find out more about endowments with the Free Will Baptist Foundation at http://fwbgifts.org. #NAFWB
In honor of Veterans Day, retired chaplain Terry Austin joins the podcast to share his experiences in the military, the opportunities he was afforded as a chaplain, and the ways we can support the veterans in our churches and communities. Terry serves as Chaplain Support Officer for Free Will Baptist North American Ministries. Plan to give to the Mission North America Offering Sunday, November 24 to support the continued ministry of our FWB chaplains. More information at https://www.fwbnam.com/mna/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #VeteransDay #Veterans #Military #Chaplains
One of the top reasons a person stops attending church is because they move. Anna Fox of the NAFWB explains how the church directory can help pastors and congregants not only find a church but also promote their church to the community.
Find the directory at http://directory.nafwb.org. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #Community
Start investing early and leave it alone. John Brummitt, President and CEO of the Board of Retirement, discusses some of the trends (and mistakes) of the past few generations and their retirement investing and shares tips on how to correctly prepare for retirement.
Find more from the Board of Reitrement at https://boardofretirement.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Retirement #Investing
One event; 26 locations! Shine FWB is a conference for girls ages 12-18 addressing the tough topics of life and combatting the lies culture feeds them. The conference will take place at The Donelson Fellowship in Nashville, Tennessee, but will be simulcast to 26 other locations throughout the US. Executive Director Ruth McDonald shares about the conference and the ministries of WNAC.
Registration for the event (all locations) is open at https://bit.ly/3YtpkD0. Register by January 3 to receive a free t-shirt. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Girls #Teenagers #Shine #WNAC
When Nathan Patton began to use The Free Will Baptist Catechism for his family devotions, he realized it would be great to have it as a digital resource. He developed https://www.fwbcatechism.com, a way to walk through the Catechism online.
The Free Will Baptist Catechism was written by Dr. Paul Harrison. Find Catechism resources at https://nafwb.org/catechism/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Bible #Theology #Doctrine #Catechism
“It’s not just a problem of filling the pulpit and getting somebody who could come in and pastor; it’s actually a survival issue.”
Dr. Paul Harrison discusses the critical shortage of pastors and the challenge churches face when searching for a pastor. He also describes the model Paul laid out in the New Testament of raising up leaders within the church to pastor when he left.
The Executive Office offers help and resources to churches who are without a pastor through the Pastor Placement Program and The Shepherding Initiative. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #Pastor #PastoralSearch #PastorShortage
“A lot of it is pastors feel so alone; they feel so isolated.”
As Pastor Appreciation kicks off, Tom Jones shares the struggles pastors face and the ways that we can come alongside them and encourage them.
That may even include helping them get counseling through the Refresh Counseling Program to walk them through their challenges. The program has provided over 1,200 counseling sessions to pastors and their families since 2022. Email questions@nafwb.org to find out more. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Pastors #PastorAppreciationMonth
“Even the verses I know today just from heart are the ones that I learned in CTS when I was just 8,9,10 years old.“
Derek Altom and Danny Conn of D6 Family and Vertical Three discuss the benefits of churches engaging their young people in CTS, and how it can be used in church and at home to further develop them as disciples and leaders. Find more about using CTS in your church at http://verticalthree.com/ministries/cts/.
CTS stands for Church Training Service and is a program that has existed among Free Will Baptists for more than 50 years. It is organized as a way for churches to help students develop a deeper knowledge of Scripture while also identifying and honing talents for use in the local church. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Discipleship #Training #Church
“We just decided there are so many small places out there that we could help them to do church in an effective way that, if they weren’t supported, they couldn’t do this on their own.”
Andy Addis is the author of Doing More Together, the story of how Crosspoint Church in Kansas went from a declining rural church to a rural multisite. The book is available as a free download here: https://bit.ly/3XqAjv7. The Crosspointe Church story also led to the idea of the Replant Hub (https://replanthub.com).
The Shepherding Initiative is a new initiative from the NAFWB geared to help struggling churches as they search for a pastor. Find more information at https://nafwb.org/shepherding/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #RuralChurch #Revitalization #Pastoring
Kevin Barnett of Sutton Church, Ben Gibson of Phillips Chapel Church, and Blaine Rogers of Connect Church share about the discipleship programs they’ve implemented in their churches and how their congregations have been impacted by them. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Discipleship #Church
“Jesus was a people person. It’s not necessarily that He was extroverted…but He made people a priority; they were important to Him.”
Dr. Matt McCraw discusses leadership principles from his book, “Leading the Jesus Way.” In it, he shares how local churches can thrive when led by leaders who lead like Jesus.
The book is available from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3X5UnE5. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Leadership #Jesus #Church
“When we stepped in and started caring about the things [our neighbors] care about, then it becomes fertile soil for the Gospel.”
Daryl Crouch of Everyone's Wilson talks about how they partner with community organizations to meet the needs of those around them and how local churches can do the same.
Daryl will be a presenter at the 2024 Leadership Conference. Find more conference info at https://nafwb.org/leader. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Community #Outreach #Neighbor #Gospel
Steve Hicks and Sal Zagsaw of Grace FWB Church in Selma, CA, share about the providential encounter that led to Sal accepting Christ and now serving in his local church. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Salvation
Rickie Holstein, promotional director for the West Virginia State Association of Free Will Baptists, discusses “A DNA Timeline of West Virginia Free Will Baptist History” and the importance of recording our history.
“I’m going to heaven—who’s coming with me?”
Charolette Tallent tells the story of Al Braca, who died in the World Trade Center attacks September 11, 2001. Al lived his Christian life intentionally and with purpose and was able to lead many to the Lord during the events of that tragic day. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #September11 #WorldTradeCenter
“It exposes you broadly to the sorts of things that [Dr. Picirilli] has contributed to Free Will Baptist scholarship and beyond over the years.”
General editors Matthew Steven Bracey and Phillip Morgan preview “Teacher, Scholar, Shepherd - Essays in Honor of Dr. Robert E. Picirilli,” a new release from D6 Family. Order now: https://bit.ly/3VqfqPH. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Honor #NewRelease
Free Will Baptist scholar and author Dr. Robert Picirilli joins the podcast to discuss his book, “The Submissive Christian,” an analysis of biblical material on humility and meekness in five key relationships. The book is available from D6 Family: https://bit.ly/3KwpMZh. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Christianity #Submission #Humility #Meekness #Relationships
Noah Taylor, pastor of Evergreen Church, will speak in the Wednesday night service at the 2024 National Convention. He previews his sermon of our role in reaching the world for Christ with the theme “Do the Word…By Reaching the World,” from James 5:19-20 and Romans 10:14-17.
Find all convention information at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #DoersOfTheWord #James5
Yvonne Thigpen, president of the Evangelical Training Association (ETA), joins the podcast to discuss the variety of training courses, resources, and tools they have available for training lay leaders for ministry in the local church. Find more at https://www.etaworld.org. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Derek Altom and Ryan Lewis preview the 2024 National Convention and Vertical Three Conference, including what attendees can expect in Tampa and what will be offered for those unable to be there in person.
Pre-Registration for the convention is open through June 21. Find all convention information at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #DoersOfTheWord #v3con24
“I was an atheist, but you cannot deny goodness when you are in front of it…period.”
Pedro and Rebecca Garcia share the story of Pedro’s conversion from atheism, including the influence Rebecca had on him through kindness and hospitality.
Pedro is Outreach Director at The Donelson Fellowship. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Conversion #Disciple #Atheism
Forty million people in the U.S. have stopped attending church over the last 25 years, with a major reason being that they have moved to a different city.
When Andy and Robin moved to Chicago from Dr. Danny Conn’s church in Pensacola, he immediately contacted David Potete and Northwest Community Church, and they were able to help the couple transition to a church where they were ready and willing to serve. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #TheGreatDechurching #Church
Reuben Cason, promotional director for NCFWB, will speak in the Tuesday night service at the 2024 National Convention. He reflects on hosting the 2023 convention and previews his sermon, “Do the Word…By Enduring Suffering,” from James 5:7-12.
Find all convention information at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #DoersOfTheWord#James5
“You set it up in such a way to say one of our goals as a church is that we want to raise up new leaders; to prepare the next generation of preachers of the word.”
Dr. Chuck Lawless discusses the many benefits for churches and congregants of team preaching, including giving opportunities for younger leaders in the church to find their calling.
Dr. Lawless is Dean of Doctoral Studies and Vice-President of Spiritual Formation and Ministry Centers at Southeastern Seminary. Find more from him at https://chucklawless.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Preaching
Bob Brown, pastor of Harmony Free Will Baptist Church in Lake Butler, Florida, will speak in the Sunday morning service at the 2024 National Convention. He shares some background about himself and previews his sermon, “Doing the Word…By Embracing Trials,” from James 1.
Bob also serves as the convention prayer chairman for the Florida Free Will Baptists, and has created 50 Days of Prayer for Convention. Prayer runs from June 1 until the start of the convention. Download the prayer guide at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #DoersOfTheWord #James1
Throughout its 25-plus years of ministry in Chicago, Northwest Community Church has partnered with various agencies to provide services to the community, which has in turn brought people into their building and much-needed funds into the church.
Pastor David Potete talks about the creative ways the church has found to keep the ministries of the church funded through the MINCE approach. For more on MINCE, visit https://nafwb.org/mince/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #Ministry #Outreach #Community
“At the end of life, the church as a whole isn’t the best at [caring for the “least of these”]. But it’s hard to deal with something like dementia.”
Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly shares her experience of caring for and ministering to people with dementia, and gives ways the church can help to minister to those affected by it.
Mary Anne authored A Proactive Perspective in Dementia Care: A Relationship-Based Approach, available from Amazon: https://amzn.to/4dp7TsE. She is also Executive Director of Veranda Ministries. #BetterTogether #Dementia #DementiaCare
“A public school can be a good partnership for the local church, and Good News Club is a good way to do that.”
Hannah Driggers Matthews describes how any church can start a Good News Club in their local public school, and how it has impacted both the students and those teaching in the club.
Hannah also wrote about her experience in “Good News Goes to the Library” in the April-May issue of ONE Magazine: http://www.onemag.org/library.htm. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #GoodNewsClub #Children #Kids #Outreach
“Often, one of the big reasons churches eventually close or church plants never get off the ground is due to their financial viability.”
Dr. Jay Moon, author of “Missional Vibrancy and Financial Viability” and professor at Asbury Seminar, describes his MINCE approach, providing effective financial and funding approaches for churches in financial distress.
Find more about MINCE and other resources at https://nafwb.org/mince/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #MINCE #Church #ChurchFinances
"The question we’ve been trying to figure out is this right here: what is it the church does that leads to lasting faith in kids?"
Matt Markins, president & CEO of Awana, discusses factors that help shape and influence kids in their faith. He addresses research insights that helped determine these factors in his book, “The Faith of Our Children,” available here: https://amzn.to/3xDtLjy. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Discipleship #KidsMinistry #Childrensministry #Kids #Children
“It is more important than ever that you’re proactive because it may not be as easy to switch or find a solution as it was two years ago.”
Roger Peyton of James Greene & Associates talks about the major shift in the insurance market, the challenge that brings for churches, and steps they can take to mitigate the cost of their insurance.
Find the flyer Roger refers to here: https://nafwb.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/James-Greene-Flyer.jpg. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Insurance #Church
“One of the things I wanted to do was to try to avoid the controversy and the negativity and just explain to our readers how the Bible comes to be in our hands.” Dr. Robert E. Picirilli reflects on his book, “How We Get Our English Bible,” providing an insightful and thorough explanation of how the written Word of God has been preserved throughout generations while maintaining its authenticity and reliability. The book is available from D6 Family Ministry: https://bit.ly/3Tz1Bxt. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Scripture #Bible #BibleTranslations
With over 30 years’ experience in student ministry, Dr. Richard Ross has developed a specific discipleship moment in which churches recognize a “milestone” of students recognizing the call on their lives and taking significant roles in the church.
Dr. Ross is Senior Professor of Student Ministry at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, frequent speaker at the D6 Family Conference, co-founder of the True Love Waits movement, and author of many books. Find more resources from Dr. Ross at https://richardaross.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #StudentMinistry #Students #Discipleship
When the pastor of Ada First FWB Church resigned, the leadership knew something had to be done. They met with Legacy FWB Church and determined the best thing to do would be to merge the two churches.
Pastor Jarrod Presley shares the steps they took in the process of merging and how the two congregations became one. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #ChurchMergers
The world is coming to our doorstep. There are around 1 million international students in the US. The top sending countries are China and India, countries it is often difficult to send missionaries to. Do you have a college close to your church? In these 5 podcasts, learn actions you can take to minister to these students.
Josh Chapman and Faron Thebeau serve as pastors at Mosaic Church Rolla, reaching students at Missouri S&T. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #College #CollegeMinistry #Outreach #InternationalStudents
The world is coming to our doorstep. There are around 1 million international students in the US. The top sending countries are China and India, countries it is often difficult to send missionaries to. Do you have a college close to your church? In these 5 podcasts, learn actions you can take to minister to these students.
Bradley Mercer serves with IM, Inc. reaching international students at the University of Missouri. Aaron Pontious is pastor of Rejoice Church in Columbia, Missouri. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #College #CollegeMinistry #Outreach #InternationalStudents
The world is coming to our doorstep. There are around 1 million international students in the US. The top sending countries are China and India, countries it is often difficult to send missionaries to. Do you have a college close to your church? In these 5 podcasts, learn actions you can take to minister to these students.
Tyler Penn serves with IM, Inc. reaching international students at the University of Illinois. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #College #CollegeMinistry #Outreach #InternationalStudents
The world is coming to our doorstep. There are around 1 million international students in the US. The top sending countries are China and India, countries it is often difficult to send missionaries to. Do you have a college close to your church? In these 5 podcasts, learn actions you can take to minister to these students.
Josh Chapman serves as college pastor at Mosaic Church, reaching students at Missouri S&T. Bradley Mercer serves with IM, Inc. reaching international students at the University of Missouri. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #College #CollegeMinistry #Outreach #InternationalStudents
The world is coming to our doorstep. There are around 1 million international students in the US. The top sending countries are China and India, countries it is often difficult to send missionaries to. Do you have a college close to your church? In these 5 podcasts, learn actions you can take to minister to these students.
Curt Holland is the Director of Field Ministry Personnel for IM, Inc. and heads the International Students Task Force. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #College #CollegeMinistry #Outreach #InternationalStudents
It has been said the two most neglected things in our churches are the third verse of a hymn…and the pastor’s wife.
Debe Taylor joins the podcast to share ways we can love, support, and encourage our pastor’s wife, especially in this month designated as Pastor’s Wife Appreciation Month.
Mrs. Debe was the daughter of a pastor, wife of a pastor, and now serves with her husband David in promotional ministries for ARFWB. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #PastorsWifeAppreciation #PastorsWifeAppreciationMonth
It is estimated that by 2023, 20% of the population will struggle with dementia. Mary Anne Oglesby-Sutherly discusses the alarming trends among Baby Boomers and some of the signs to watch for. Mary Anne has over 20 years of experience in health and senior care industries and works to help churches, senior adults, and families address issues relating to senior adult living.
Mary Anne is the founder of Veranda Ministries and the author of Remember for Me: Life Lessons From Those Living With Dementia. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #BabyBoomers #Dementia #DementiaCare
“That is why I think he’s probably the greatest President, given what he has to deal with and how he handles it over that four year period.”
On this Presidents' Day, Dr. Daniel Worthington discusses the challenges and responsibilities Abraham Lincoln faced as President, and lessons we can learn from his leadership.
Dr. Worthington is Director of The Papers of Abraham Lincoln at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #PresidentsDay #Lincoln #Leadership
“The Creator of all of us designed our emotional, our social, our physical, our behavior makeup to be worshipping of Him and to be following His directions.”
Dr. Harold Koenig gleans from his book, “Nothing More Important: A Book About Faith,” which explores the many spiritual, social, mental, and physical health rewards of faith: https://amzn.to/48cV152.
Dr. Koenig is professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and associate professor of medicine at Duke University Medical Center as well as Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Psychiatry and Medicine. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Faith #Health
Research indicates only 10% of Generation Z attends church once a month. We found a sample where over 99% of Gen Z attends church consistently. Hear Derek Altom and Leslie Nichols describe how keeping students involved keeps them in church. Derek is director of events and development for D6 Family Ministry and the director of Vertical Three Ministries, working with the Truth and Peace Student Leadership Conference. Leslie is director of mobilization for IM, Inc., working with ETEAM Student Mission Program and College Missions Program. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Kids #Students #Discipleship #Generational
“Being a First Aid Ready church just means that we can help others where they’re at, we can kind of meet them on the road that they’re struggling on.”
First FWB Church Beaufort has participated as a pilot church in becoming First Aid Ready, a program aimed to equip congregations to help people with emotional issues. Caleb Smith discusses the program and how it has challenged their church to meet the needs of hurting people around them.
Find out more at https://nafwb.org/firstaid/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #FirstAid #HurtingPeople #EmotionalIssues
“As we look at Scripture, it becomes obvious that we were designed for more; our money was designed for more.”
Art Rainer shares insight from his book, “Money in Light of Eternity,” encouraging believers to remember that God has entrusted us with financial resources for a purpose. Find more from Art and his “8 Money Milestones” at https://www.christianmoneysolutions.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Stewardship #Money #Finances
In 1984, President Ronald Reagan issued a proclamation designating the third Sunday in January as National Sanctity of Human Life Day. Pam Crank of the Hope Center (a ministry of Free Will Baptist Family Ministries) discusses ways that individuals and churches can support their pregnancy care ministry as well as how Christians can provide for support of the sanctify of all life.
Find more about the Hope Center at https://www.hopecentergreeneville.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #SanctityofLife #ChooseLife
“Every aspect of human flourishing is enhanced by having a strong religious faith that is then acted out in religious beliefs and behaviors, the way we treat others, and the way we live our lives.”
Dr. Harold Koenig discusses how things we put our faith in, including family, work, or even habits and addictions can drastically affect our health. He also explains how the research shows that every aspect of human flourishing is enhanced by having a strong religious faith in God.
Dr. Koenig is professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences and associate professor of medicine at Duke University Medical Center as well as Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Psychiatry and Medicine. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Faith #Health
Jared Wall works as a student financial services advisor at a private university and shares how individuals can apply to have student loans forgiven through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Qualifications include being employed by a 501(c)(3) organization, which would include all churches that are members of the NAFWB.
Find out more about the program and how to apply https://studentaid.gov/pslf/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #College #StudentDebt
“We had this hunch that we could be in the largest and fastest religious shift in the history of our country.”
Co-authors Jim Davis and Michael Graham join the podcast to discuss their book, “The Great Dechurching: Who’s Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back?”
Jim is teaching pastor of Orlando Grace Church and host of the As in Heaven podcast. Michael is the program director for the Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics (https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/thekellercenter/).
A book study of “The Great Dechurching” is coming through the NAFWB Growing Together Initiative beginning in January. Find more at https://nafwb.org/grow/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #TheGreatDechurching #Church #Religion
“There are 3,700 international students on campus, and around 110 different countries represented, so it’s a huge and ripe field.”
Bradley Mercer describes the mission field he works in on the campus of Mizzou, and tells the ways he is cultivating relationships and meeting the needs of the students there. He also offers encouragement to churches with a college campus nearby with ways to minister there.
Bradley is part of IM, Inc.'s growing initiative to reach international students in the US. Find out more about how you can support his ministry at https://iminc.org/im-missionaries/bradley-mercer/.
NAFWB and IM, Inc. have also formed a Reaching College Students Task Force, aimed at equipping churches to minister on college campuses. More resources will be available soon. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #CollegeStudents #Ministry #Missions #CollegeMinistry
“Most churches in America were built institutional and educational, not relational.”
Todd Brown of Brown Church Development Group discusses the changes in the church over the last 40 years and how the Brown Group can help churches plan to intentionally be more relational through consulting, design, finances, and church building/construction.
Find more at https://www.churchdevelopment.net. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church
“The thing that most churches are finding out is that they don’t necessarily feel like they’re unhealthy (and they may not be unhealthy), but what I tell them is we can always do better.”
Travis Alexander, executive director of ARFWB missions, describes the process of Rekindle. Churches walk through an assessment of themselves and identify areas where they can improve. For more about Rekindle, contact us at questions@nafwb.org. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ChurchRevitalization
Jose Correa and Wilberto Moreno discuss the ministries of Puerto Rico Free Will Baptists, including Jesús es el Centro IBL and Genesis Academy.
Sunday is the Mission North America Offering, providing vital funding for ministries like this through Free Will Baptist North American Ministries. Find out more about how to give at https://www.fwbnam.com/mna/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ChurchPlanting #Gospel #Discipleship
“We want to equip families with the hope of the Gospel and equip them with the Biblical truths for their everyday life.”
Brandon Smith, lead pastor at Equip Church, talks about the ways their church plant hopes to reach the community of Hickory, North Carolina. Equip Church is a church planting partnership of North Carolina Association of Free Will Baptists and Free Will Baptist North American Ministries.
Sunday is the Mission North America Offering, providing vital funding for Free Will Baptist North American Ministries. Find out more about how to give at https://www.fwbnam.com/mna/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ChurchPlanting #Gospel #Discipleship
“It demonstrates that what we believe theologically and biblically also fits with what we can believe when it comes to history, and economics, and science and all of these other things.”
Matthew S. Bracey and Chris Talbot of Welch College, editors of Christians in Culture, preview the new release from Welch Press, aimed at helping Christians live faithfully in a confusing culture.
Order your copy of Christians in Culture: https://welchpress.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Christianity #Culture #ChristianWorldview
“God was showing me if you’re going to be in this area, you cannot ignore this neighborhood.”
When Church H2O began planning to relocate their church, they found themselves near a neighborhood that desperately needed to be shown the love of Christ. Pastor Mike Cox shares how the church has found a way to meet the needs of the people around them by reaching them right where they are. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Ministry #Outreach #Addiction
“You are in a situation where all you can do is depend on the Lord.”
Jowand Larrimore tells the story of when her husband, Tim, was shot while serving as a SC State Trooper and the way the Lord sustained them through a near-tragedy. Tim and his wife now serve pastoring Liberty FWB Church. She shares her experience as a pastor’s wife and ways that a congregation can support law enforcement families as well as their pastor’s family. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #LawEnforcement #PastorAppreciationMonth #Pastors
“How are we spending our time on social media? What are we sharing? Are you using it to be a light in the darkness of the social media landscape? Are you using it as a ministry versus just posting content?”
Lauren Biggs, media and content coordinator for IM, Inc., shares some things to consider as a church works to use social media platforms to reach its congregation and the community. She gives “dos and don’ts” and practical tips for laying out a social media plan to engage your audience. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #SocialMedia #Ministry #Church
“What I tell our church is I’m not a perfect pastor and this isn’t a perfect church, but it brought us together to serve a perfect God.”
Barry Long discusses the pastor placement program, where churches seeking a pastor and pastors seeking a church fill out a questionnaire to help determine their compatibility of philosophy, traditions, and practices. Through the program, Barry was called as pastor to Heritage Free Will Baptist Church.
The program is part of the Refresh initiative of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, Inc. You can find more about the church and pastor questionnaires at https://nafwb.org/refresh/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Pastor #Church
“I decide to figure out a way that I could put a tool in the hands of people who had nothing to go on or very little.”
Doug Little discusses the challenging shortage of musicians in so many of our churches and introduces a resource he is offering to help provide worship music for them. Access the resource at https://www.douglittlesongs.com.
Doug is chairman of the Free Will Baptist Music Commission and field manager for the Free Will Baptist Foundation. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Music #Worship
Dr. Vernon Whaley joins the podcast to discuss his books, “Exalt His Name: Understanding Music and Worship” (Book 1 and 2), published in partnership with the Evangelical Training Association. The books are helpful resource tools for individuals, worship teams, worship leaders, and pastors to use in practicing worship.
Available at https://www.etaworld.org/collections/books. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Worship
“We wanted it to be thoroughly Free Will Baptist in its theme, in its presentation, in its theology, and in its doctrine.”
Dr. Vernon Whaley describes the process of how “Rejoice: The Free Will Baptist Hymn Book” came to its existence, including all those who contributed to the project.
Dr. Whaley is the Dean of the School of Music at Trevecca University and served as chair of the Music Department for Free Will Baptist Bible College (now Welch College). #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Worship #Hymnal
“I think we’ve got to be realistic; we’ve got to understand that we can know the Scriptures and still have the questions.”
Sherman Branch faced an unimaginable tragedy in his life that left him searching for answers. He shares his experience and advice for those facing similar situations. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Grief
“God just used his life; he touched hundreds of thousands in the short nine years that he lived…and we’re excited about how God’s still using his story to impact and touch people’s lives.”
Luke Johnson shares the story of his late son, Landen, born with one of the rarest medical conditions in the world. Luke and his wife, Amanda, have created the Landen’s Story Foundation to further the legacy of their son and his impact on people’s lives. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Legacy
“We believe that your church is uniquely equipped to reach specific people in your community, but the problem is a lot of pastors don’t know how to actually find them.”
Tyler Harden of Firm Foundations talks about the ways they partner with churches to find specific strategies to engage the people around them and serve their community well. Find more about Firm Foundations at https://firmfoundationsmarketing.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Outreach #Evangelism #Community
Dr. Eddie Moody presented "First Aid for Emotional Hurts: The Tools You Need to Answer the Call to Help the Hurting" at the 2023 National Convention.
If your church is interested in becoming "First Aid ready," email us at questions@nafwb.org. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #AsForYou #Ministry
Melanie Hester presented "We're Using Old Maps: The Future of Children's Ministry" at the 2023 National Convention.
Melanie is the Director of Discipleship Engagement for Awana.
“It’s reaching out even beyond just the church.”
Pastor Kevin Barnett of Sutton FWB Church describes the church’s process of D Groups and how the impact is being felt through families and even into the community. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Discipleship #DGroups
“This isn’t a book OF history; it’s a book about how to create and preserve history…”
Eric K. Thomsen previews his book “To Honor Our Heritage,” and shares the importance of individuals, churches, and even the denomination following the process of creating our stories. Eric is managing editor of ONE Magazine and secretary of the Free Will Baptist Historical Commission.
“To Honor Our Heritage is available from D6 Family: https://store.randallhouse.com/product/to-honor-our-heritage/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #History #Heritage
“As followers of Christ, we have a whole lot to be joyful about…I mean a WHOLE lot to be joyful about.”
Dr. Neil Gilliland sits down with Dr. Eddie Moody to discuss his new book, “A View From Joy’s Window.” The book outlines seven reasons to be joyful, reinforcing the truth that our joy is grounded in Christ.
“A View From Joy’s Window” can be ordered from D6 Family and is also available on Audible. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Joy
“The essence of it is that we need a disciplined way of spending a sufficient amount of time every week to get the message that God wants us to pass on to our congregation.”
Dr. Robert J. Morgan, well-known author and speaker, gives practical tips on how pastors can develop habits into their daily schedule to prepare messages each week.
Find more from Dr. Morgan, including his podcast and numerous books he has authored, at https://www.robertjmorgan.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Preaching #Pastors
Pastor Butch Taylor talks about his 25+ years of ministry at Deep Creek Free Will Baptist Church and previews his sermon for Sunday morning at the 2023 National Convention.
More interviews with convention speakers and others will be available from the Free Will Baptist Media Commission during the livestream of the convention. Find the full convention program at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #AsForYou
“When I say vote, I don’t just mean going out and voting every four years in a presidential election. We need to make sure we get out and vote every single time there’s an election.”
State Representative William Slater of the Tennessee House of Representatives shares how Christians can and should be involved in the political process. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Politics #GoodCitizens
Since 2010, the Free Will Baptist Media Commission has provided a live stream of convention services and business reports for those unable to attend the convention in person. The last several years, they have enhanced the online experience with interviews, video recaps, and more.
Josh Owens of the Media Commission shares how viewers can get the most out of the online experience in 2023.
Convention worship services and business reports will be streamed live. Check the convention program for times (all times EDT): https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #AsForYou
“A D6 Hero...heroically gives of their financial resources to help us fulfill the mission that God has called us to…to help you build believers through church and home.”
Derek Altom of D6 Family discusses the ways to support the ministries of Randall House and D6 Family Ministry to equip them as they further discipleship and the gospel around the world.
Find out more about becoming a D6 Hero: https://d6hero.com.
Read more about how a D6 partnership made an impact in the underground church in East Asia: https://bit.ly/d6heroimpact. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #D6 #Discipleship
“It seems like now everybody is realizing the importance of the early chapters of Genesis, and laying that foundation for us as humans when we talk about things like gender, and our purpose in life, and who we are, and our identity…”
Dr. Ian Hawkins, chairman of the department of arts and sciences at Welch College, discusses why science should matter to Christians, and why the solid foundation laid for us in creation is vital to today’s society. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Science #Creation #Genesis
Ken Akers talks about the opportunities attendees have to serve in Raleigh at the 2023 National Convention.
Projects include working with With Love From Jesus, a non-profit in Raleigh, a community outreach event with Haven FWB Church, and an Operation Saturation with Shady Grove FWB Church.
Register yourself (or your group) to participate and receive a FREE t-shirt: https://www.fwbmastersmen.org/2022/05/impact-raleigh/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #AsForYou #Service #Outreach #Impact
Tim Larrimore served as a South Carolina State Trooper for over 12 years. Through being shot, being involved in various shootouts and other circumstances, he sensed God calling (and preparing) him to preach. He shares how God’s hand was evident throughout that time, leading him to eventually answer the call.
Tim pastors the Liberty Free Will Baptist in Lancaster, SC. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Pastor #AnsweringTheCall
Dr. W. Jay Moon, professor of church planting and evangelism at Asbury Theological Seminary, discusses his book, "Missional Vibrancy and Financial Viability." The book provides several fresh options to provide hope to churches and church plants in financial distress. Dr. Moon offers six non-traditional financial approaches that churches can implement to promote missional impact and financial viability.
Order a free copy of the book: https://multiplication.org/product/missional-vibrancy-and-financial-viability/.
Download the free pdf of the book: https://asburychurchplanting.com/wp-content/uploads/FINAL-1.pdf
Dr. Moon's article, "Alternative Financial Models for Churches and Church Plants: When Tithes and Offerings are not Enough," from the Great Commission Research Journal: https://place.asburyseminary.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1042&context=gcrj.
William Slater, Dean of Adult and Online Studies at Welch College, introduces the Certificate of Biblical and Ministry Studies. The program is designed to support and enhance the ministry of volunteer workers in the local church as well as bi-vocational pastors, and even offers transferable college credits. Find more at https://welch.edu/certificate.
Dr. Ian Hawkins, chairman of the department of arts and sciences at Welch College, discusses how crucial the creation account is to our worldview, laying the foundation for the variety of identity issues facing our culture. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Creation #Identity
As a student at Missouri S&T, JD Crawford developed a passion for missions. He got connected with Mosaic Church and discovered even more ways to get involved in reaching international students on campus. Through his civil engineering degree, he has now found ways to use his skills to minister in places he would not have been allowed otherwise. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Missions
“It’s amazing to think of all the things we can do nowadays [to communicate], but we need to do all of these things safely.”
Kristi Johnson and her husband, Tim, served as missionaries to Spain for nearly 25 years. Now, in her role as Development Communications Manager for IM Inc., she shares the value of using social media to communicate with missionaries and the best practices for doing so to maintain the missionary’s security. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Missions
The Vertical Three Conference is a youth conference held in conjunction with the Free Will Baptist National Convention, giving young people the opportunity to join with hundreds of others from across the country to worship, serve, and even showcase their talents in the CTS Ministry Expo.
Derek Altom, Director of Events for Randall House & D6 Family, previews the conference theme, sessions, and activities, and encourages churches and families to plan to attend.
Find more information about the Vertical Three Conference: http://verticalthree.com. Register for the 2023 National Convention: https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #V32023
Dr. Robert E. Picirilli, professor emeritus of Welch College and well-known Free Will Baptist theologian, discusses “God in Eternity and Time,” his recent book addressing free will versus divine determinism.
The book was recognized by Christianity Today as a finalist for book of the year in Academic Theology. It was published by B&H Publishing Group and is available from several book distributors. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Theology
“We are building on a foundation that has been built by tremendous women for a couple of hundred years.”
Ruth McDonald, new executive director of WNAC, describes the cultural and ministry transition from serving as missionary to Japan for the past 36 years to returning to the states and starting her new position. She also shares her vision for the future of Free Will Baptist women’s ministries. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #WNAC #FWBWomensMinistries
Evergreen FWB Church is part of the beta group of The Hope Initiative, offered by the NAFWB through a partnership with Church Answers. Pastor Noah Taylor describes how the church’s participation in the initiative has had an immediate impact on the intentionality of their evangelism efforts, and has already resulted in one salvation decision.
Find more about The Hope Initiative at https://nafwb.org/hope. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #TheHopeInitiative #Evangelism
“It was this incredible type of thing where you walk around and just realize, God is doing something that is just not humanly made.”
Dr. W. Jay Moon, professor at Asbury Theological Seminary, gives insight on the revival that took place on campus for over two weeks in February.
Dr. Moon serves as professor of church planting and evangelism at the seminary. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Revival #AsburyRevival
Jaimie and Tammy Lancaster served as missionaries to Uruguay for 23 years. During their tenure, Tammy developed some health difficulties that changed the course of their ministry. They share their story of God sustaining them through the crisis and how He has led them into their new ministry.
Jaimie now serves as Assistant Director of Field Partnerships for IM, Inc. Find more about IM's global partnerships at https://iminc.org/our-impact/global-partners/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Mrs. Carolyn Dwyer presented this seminar at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Dr. Eddie Moody, executive secretary of NAFWB, presented this seminar at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Steve Greenwood presented this seminar at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Dr. Robby Gallaty of Long Hollow Church presented the Tuesday night keynote session at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Dr. Robby Gallaty of Long Hollow Church presented the Monday night keynote session at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Matthew Bracey of Welch College and Eric Thomsen of ONE Magazinepresented this seminar at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Josh Chapman & Faron Thebeau of Mosaic Church Rolla presented this seminar at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Dr. Ron Hunter of Randall House and D6 Family Ministry presented this seminar at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Phyllis York of WNAC presented this seminar at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Pedro Garcia of The Donelson Fellowship presented this seminar at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Marshall Bonéy of ReIgnite Church presented this seminar at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
Ruth McDonald, executive director of WNAC, presented this seminar at the 2022 Leadership Conference. Find more seminars from the conference here.
General Editors Charles Cook and David Lytle join the podcast to discuss their recently published book, “Arminian Baptists.” The book, an informative work by multiple authors, tells the story of Arminian Baptists through the biographies of key historical figures, starting with the English General Baptists of the 17th century and continuing into the General Baptist and Free Will Baptist movements of the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.
“Arminian Baptists” is available from Randall House and D6 Family: https://store.randallhouse.com/product/arminian-baptists/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Arminians #Baptists
The D6 Conference is April 10-12 in Orlando, Florida. Derek Altom, director of events and development for D6 Family, talks about main-stage speakers, breakout sessions, and other tools and resources that will equip and empower attendees to take their church and home to an “All-In” approach to discipleship.
Listen for a Promo Code to save $150 on conference registration. Register at http://d6conference.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #D62023 #AllIn
In July 2022, historic flooding ravaged Eastern Kentucky. Pastor Jim Patton of Pikeville Free Will Baptist Church talks about how FWB Disaster Response Teams (DRT) responded to help those affected, and how their local church was able to assist their community when they needed them most.
Find out more about FWB Master’s Men Disaster Response Teams, a ministry of Free Will Baptist North American Ministries: https://www.fwbnam.com/masters-men. #NAFWB #DisasterResponse
Welch College Press recently published “Secularism and the American Republic,” written by the late F. Leroy Forlines, long-time scholar of theology and culture and professor at Welch College.
Matthew Steven Bracey, editor of the book gives some background and insight into the book as well as into the mind of Mr. Forlines.
“Secularism and the American Republic” is available from Welch College Press: https://welch.edu/welchpress.
Plan to give to the Welch Fund Offering Sunday, February 26. Gifts to the Welch Fund go directly to reducing the tuition for students: https://welch.edu/give.#NAFWB #BetterTogether #Secularism #US
“They want social interaction, and not just social media interaction. They desire to be connected in person.”
Jonathan and Stephanie Locklear serve at Woodhaven Free Will Baptist Church. Through unique circumstances, they have found a way to reach out to members of their community who were longing for connection.
Woodhaven participated in Know Your Community, obtaining a report of their community’s demographics and psychographics to better understand how to reach those around them. Find out more about Know Your Community at https://nafwb.org/know/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
“Even though you have other people who help you, you’re really responsible for everything; everything kind of falls back on your desk.” Dr. Gary McIntosh previews his book, “The Solo Pastor,” addressing the challenges pastors face when they are the lone staff member at a church. “The Solo Pastor: Understanding and Overcoming the Challenges of Leading a Church Alone” releases tomorrow from several booksellers. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Pastor
“This is a group that’s eager, and willing, and wanting to do something worthwhile.”
Dr. Doug Earls, retired pastor of Calvary Chapel in Buffalo, MO, discusses the value of the Baby Boomer generation and ways churches can involve them in all facets of ministry and outreach. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #BabyBoomer
Sunday is National Sanctity of Human Life Day. Pam Crank of Hope Center and Free Will Baptist Family Ministries shares how Christians and churches can support and promote life.
Find more about the Hope Center and its ministries at https://www.hopecentergreeneville.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #SanctityofLife
Troy Sadowski, former NFL tight end and All-American at the University of Georgia, shares his testimony of coming to faith in Jesus.
Troy is Executive Vice President of Cornerstone Estate Planning, who partners with FWB Foundation to offer a comprehensive estate planning for families. Find more at https://www.fwbgifts.com/estateplan. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
As someone who has planted three churches, Chad Kivette is uniquely gifted at reaching people and connecting them to the church and to Christ.
He shares ways all Christians can get out of their comfort zones to connect with lost people and find similarities in their lives to build relationships and reach them with the gospel.
Chad is a church planter for Free Will Baptist North American Ministries and lead pastor of 24/7 Church Kodak, TN. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Evangelism #ChurchPlanting
“There is a lot of suspicion and animosity toward Evangelicals and Protestant churches, so we need to be very creative in our work in order to present Christ to our people.”
Trif and Vanya Trifonov serve as church planters with IM, Inc., to Varna, Bulgaria. Trif shares the challenges and opportunities of ministering in a culture that is skeptical of Christianity.
Find more about the Trifonov’s ministry at https://iminc.org/im-missionaries/trif-and-vanya-trifonov/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Julie Thomas has been involved with Samaritan’s Purse and Operation Christmas Child for over 9 years. She shares about her experience of packing shoe boxes as well as a special opportunity she has this year to distribute them in person overseas.
To find out more about how your church can get involved in the ministry of Operation Christmas Child, visit https://www.samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
“There’s too much infighting and too much negativity from a lot of people that really kind of misunderstand each other. I think Reformed Arminianism has the opportunity to bring some people together around the table and discuss this.”
Dr. J. Matthew Pinson, president of Welch College, discusses his book, “40 Questions About Arminianism,” which addresses much of the unknown and misunderstood teachings of Jacobus Arminius and encourages a broad understanding of historic and contemporary Arminianism.
“40 Questions About Arminianism” is available from Christianbook and Amazon. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Arminianism
*Parental Advisory: Some material in this podcast may not be suitable for younger listeners.
“I think it makes a big positive difference for them to realize that there’s scientific rationale to what they’ve been taught by their church and by their parents their whole lives.”
Dr. Joe Malone, “The Sexual Integrity Scientist,” talks about the detrimental effects that the normalization of casual sex and “hookup” culture has on men and women.
Find more from Dr. Malone including his book, “Battle of the Sexes,” at https://www.drjoemalone.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
BJ Eaton retired from the Kentucky State Police in August of 2017. His next calling was to join a team planting Cultivate Free Will Baptist Church in Athens, Alabama.
BJ and Joann Eaton serve as church planters for Free Will Baptist North American Ministries. You can help support the ministry of church planting, revitalization, and more by participating in the Mission North America Offering Sunday, November 20. Find more at https://www.fwbnam.com/mna/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
For the past few years, Free Will Baptist North American Ministries has offered a Pastor’s Boot Camp for local church pastors, and they now offer to bring mini boot camps “on the road.”
Chief Training Officer Dr. Brad Ransom explains the benefits of these boot camps as well as how pastors and associations can participate. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
”We have really seen our church grow over the last year, and most importantly, we are seeing lives changed and people discipled.”
With the help of Free Will Baptists across the nation, Summit Church Missoula was able to purchase a building for their church plant, and having a building has had a profound impact on the way the church is able to minister to its community. Josh and Kimberly Hampton share the exciting things taking place there.
You can support church planting efforts through Free Will Baptist North American Ministries by giving to the Mission North America Offering, Sunday, November 20. Find more at http://www.fwbnam.com/mna/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #ChurchPlanting
Through COVID, facility damage from a harsh winter storm, and other various challenges, Collin Creek Church has kept its focus on its community, working to reach a very diverse, fast-growing population. Pastor Michael Morrison shares how. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
“They don’t always believe your words, so if you can show them the Gospel in action, then you can later show them the Gospel in words.”
Shot on location in Bulgaria, Tim and Lydia Awtrey with IM, Inc. are “breaking barriers” and reaching people in the country by serving, loving, and meeting needs. Many of the methods they are using can be replicated here in the US.
Find out more about the Awtreys’ ministry: https://iminc.org/im-missionaries/tim-and-lydia-awtrey/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
“You cannot grow in full maturity until you are dedicated and committed to your local church and you are growing in Christ as well.”
Dr. Thom S. Rainer, Founder & CEO of Church Answers, previews his newest book, “I Am a Christian,” to be released November 8. The book is available for pre-order from Amazon.com, Tyndale House Publishers, and Christianbook. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Ben Crabtree began his tenure as executive secretary of Ohio Free Will Baptists asking the state to fast and pray for the ministry. He describes the impact it had on meetings, needs, and people in the state and the ways it can be replicated in other places.
The NAFWB Day of Fasting and Prayer is Tuesday, November 1. Resources for the day can be found at https://nafwb.org/fasting/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Fasting #Prayer
“When they come to the meeting of the International Fellowship and they see what God is going around the world through Free Will Baptists, it is encouraging to them.”
Dr. Kenneth Eagleton, director of field partnerships for IM, Inc. and secretary of the International Fellowship of Free Will Baptists, gives a recap of the triennial meeting of the fellowship, where nine countries were represented. He shares updates about the various works of Free Will Baptists around the world, the challenges they face, and the ways we can pray for and encourage each other. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
“Whatever you might do on a regular basis that consumes your time that could be better used in prayer and trying to grow your relationship with Lord.”
Dr. Fred Yerby, family medicine specialist, describes fasting, its benefits, and the methods for doing so, even for those with special health challenges. He also discusses the three various categories of fasting: major, minor, and social.
NAFWB has set aside Tuesday, November 1 for a denominational day of fasting and prayer. For more on the day and resources to help, visit https://nafwb.org/fasting/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Fasting #Prayer
A resolution adopted at the 2022 National Convention called on Free Will Baptists to set aside Tuesday, November 1, as a day of fasting and prayer.
Executive Secretary Eddie Moody and Moderator Tim York give an overview of the resolution and call on all Free Will Baptists to participate in this denominational effort.
For the full resolution and more resources for the day, visit https://nafwb.org/fasting/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Fasting #Prayer #Repentance
Stan Bunch, executive director for MOFWB, and Chris Todd, executive secretary for SCFWB, discuss the “Resolution of Repentance” that was adopted by delegates to the 2022 National Convention. Stan and Chris discuss the thought and context behind the resolution, each of their states passing it to be sent on to the national, and serving on the Resolutions Committee, which ultimately recommended it to the body of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, Inc.
The full resolution can be found here: https://nafwb.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Resolution-of-Repentance.pdf.
The resolution calls for the denomination to set aside Tuesday, November 1, as a day of fasting and prayer. Resources for this day will be released in the coming weeks. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Repentance
“A lot of churches don’t give their pastor the freedom to lead.”
Dr. Gordon Penfold, co-founder of Turnaround Pastors, talks about the responsibilities, challenges, and struggles facing our pastors and how congregants can recognize those hardships and support and encourage their pastors. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #PastorAppreciationMonth
“No matter the polity, church members feel like the pastor reports to them, but that doesn’t mean every pastor needs a boss every day to tell him what he’s doing wrong.”
Dr. Thom Rainer, Founder and CEO of Church Answers, discusses the effects of church members constantly complaining to the pastor, and encourages ways to find alternatives for bringing criticism to him. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #PastorAppreciationMonth
Don G. Phares and Jeff Nichols join the podcast to talk about resources offered by Child Evangelism Fellowship to help churches reach their local schools and communities.
Don serves as associate director for Child Evangelism Fellowship USA ministries and Jeff is state director for CEF of Tennessee.
To learn more about the resources offered by CEF, visit https://www.cefonline.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Welch College President Dr. J. Matthew Pinson and Provost Dr. Matthew McAffee join the podcast to promote the college’s new graduate degree, Master of Arts (M.A.) in Humanities.
Find more about the program objectives, requirements, and application procedures: https://welch.edu/academics/graduate-programs/ma-master-arts-degree-humanities/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #HigherEducation
Zach Maloney, chaplain at Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton, describes what lead him to hospice chaplaincy, the ministry that he has, and the impact it makes on those involved.
Read Zach’s article “Finding God’s Will,” from the June-July issue of ONE Magazine: http://www.nafwb.org/onemag/finding_will.htm. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Edwin Hayes previews his upcoming two-part series, “Why I Am a Free Will Baptist.” The series will take place October 11 and 25 via Zoom as part of our Growing Together initiative.
Edwin recently retired as executive secretary of the Ohio State Association of Free Will Baptists.
Register for the series by emailing questions@nafwb.org. Find all of our Growing Together opportunities at https://nafwb.org/growing/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
As part of our Growing Together initiative, Pastor Terry Pierce of Connect Church Tupelo will be leading a book discussion on “The Church Revitalization Checklist,” by Dr. Sam Rainer of Church Answers.
The book is available for purchase from Church Answers: https://churchanswers.christianbook.com/revitalization-checklist-practical-congregation-brighter-tomorrow/sam-rainer/9781496454409/pd/454408?event=ERRPDPRV.
Register for the book discussion by emailing questions@nafwb.org
Find all of our upcoming Growing Together opportunities at https://nafwb.org/growing/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Dr. Eddie Moody interviews three pastors and ministry leaders who have taken advantage of the Know Your Community resource offered by the NAFWB in a partnership with Church Answers.
Ben Crabtree is executive secretary for the Ohio State Association of Free Will Baptists; Ed Goode is pastor/church planter of Bridge Church in Champaign, Illinois; Faron Thebeau is pastor of The Mosaic Rolla. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Dr. Jackson Watts of Grace Free Will Baptist Church previews the upcoming book discussion on “How People Change,” by Dr. Tim Lane and Paul David Tripp. The book discussions will take place via Zoom at 4:00 p.m. CT September 15, October 20, November 10, and December 15. Register by emailing us at questions@nafwb.org.
“How People Change” is available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/How-People-Change-Timothy-Lane/dp/1934885533/.
For all of our upcoming Growing Together opportunities, visit https://nafwb.org/growing/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
We’re in the bubble of Christianity and we don’t even know any lost people to be burdened about, and we don’t share the Gospel with any lost people because we don’t know them.”
Dr. Chuck Lawless, dean of doctoral studies at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, discusses the disturbing trend that less and less believers are sharing their faith with others. His upcoming ebook, “Lord, I’m Caught in the Bubble,” will be available soon. For more resources from Dr. Lawless, visit https://chucklawless.com. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Dr. Rufo Gomez and his family are serving as church planters for Free Will Baptist North American Ministries, planting a church in Antioch, Tennessee. Their goal is to reach Hispanics in the area, who make up 25% of the total population.
Pray for this new church plant, Ministerio Multicultural Iglesia Bautista Libre. Find out more about how to support Dr. Gomez and his family at https://www.fwbnam.com/gomez/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
“The Great Commission was given to the universal Church, but the universal Church can’t do anything without the local church.”
Danny Gasperson, director of mobilization for Free Will Baptist International Missions, joins the podcast to discuss how believers as individuals and as a body can increase engagement and involvement in the Great Commission.
Read Danny’s article, “Committed to the Commission,” from the February-March issue of ONE Magazine: http://onemag.org/committed_commission.htm.
August 28 is the World Missions Offering. Plan for your church to participate: https://iminc.org/wmo/. #NAFWB
"Everyone together makes an IMpact."
IM Inc. wants to lighten the load of carrying the gospel with their partners around the world. The annual World Missions Offering (WMO) supports the efforts of ministries like church planting, discipleship, leadership training, and so much more.
General Director Clint Morgan describes the reasons churches should give to the WMO.
The 2022 WMO is Sunday, August 28. For more, visit https://iminc.org/wmo/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
The International Fellowship of Free Will Baptist Churches (IFOFWBC) unites churches from around the world for the purposes of identification, communion, and mutual edification and encouragement.
Dr. Kenneth Eagleton, secretary-treasurer of the fellowship and director of field partnerships for IM, Inc., shares about the history of the fellowship, its membership, and details of its upcoming meeting in September in Bulgaria. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Pastor Brandon Baber tells the story of New London Church, from his call to become the pastor, to serving as a bivocational pastor for ten years, to a name change and recently moving into a new building. Brandon shares the ways the church began to reach the community around it, pouring into lives and sending them out to make disciples. #NAFWB
Data shows that Christians in the U.S. are not sharing their faith with the people around them. GRACE Outreach offers people a variety of different things they can do to evangelize and is finding that more and more people are sustaining their involvement in evangelism through the ministry.
Listen as Dr. Bruce Barnes, promotional director for VAFWB and founder of the program, describes the ways that GRACE Outreach can change the ways we try and reach people with the gospel.
GRACE Outreach will have a booth at the 2022 National Convention. Stop by and see Dr. Barnes in Birmingham to find out more. #NAFWB #GotheExtraMile
“The way in which we talk about feet washing in our churches is something that doesn’t encourage the practice.”
“Washing the Saints’ Feet” is an ordinance held by the National Association of Free Will Baptists, Inc. (https://nafwb.org/treatise/). Dr. Kevin Hester, Dean of the School of Theology at Welch College, discusses the significance and importance of the practice of feet washing.
Feet washing will be observed during a special service Sunday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. at the 2022 National Convention. Communion will be observed at 7:00 p.m. during the evening worship service.
Carolyn Dwyer, pastor’s wife and a veteran in ministry for over 50 years, shares about a new opportunity from the Executive Office that will work to facilitate networking, fellowship, and encouragement among pastor’s wives.
Mrs. Dwyer will also be presenting a seminar Wednesday morning at 10:00 a.m. at the National Convention: “The Pastor’s Wife: Its Realities and Rewards.”
You can find more about the program by visiting the Executive Office booth at the National Convention or by emailing us at questions@nafwb.org. #NAFWB
Dr. Eddie Moody talks with Tom Jones regarding some of the ways the National Association of Free Will Baptists, Inc. and Free Will Baptist North American Ministries are working to provide professional counseling options for our pastors and their families. Tom served as a pastor and church planter before becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor.
You can find more information emailing us at questions@nafwb.org. #NAFWB
Derek Altom, director of events and development for Randall House and D6 Family, apreviews the 2022 Vertical Three Conference happening in conjuction with the National Convention in Birmingham, Alabama. All of the Vertical Three worship services will be streamed live on the Vertical Three Ministries Facebook page.
Find more information at http://verticalthree.com. #NAFWB #V32022 #GotheExtraMile
“As followers of Jesus, we are called to follow him in every area of our lives, and that includes our role as citizen.”
Joshua Hershberger, author of “The Good Citizen” and executive director and general counsel for The Good Citizen Project (https://www.goodcitizen.us) talks about how we can equip church leaders and the church itself to increase its Gospel impact by building a culture that values outward focus.
“The Good Citizen” is available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Citizen-Four-Step-Gospel-Centered-Citizenship-ebook/dp/B08KRK979W. #NAFWB
“We were profoundly formed in community, and we thrive in community. Without community, we have all kinds of challenges.”
Tom Nelson, author of “The Flourishing Pastor” and President of Made to Flourish, talks about the challenges pastors face as they work to develop themselves and lead their congregations.
Made to Flourish (https://www.madetoflourish.org) works to empower pastors and their churches to integrate faith, work, and economic wisdom for the flourishing of their communities.
“The Flourishing Pastor” is available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Flourishing-Pastor-Recovering-Leadership-Resources/dp/1514001322. #NAFWB
“Our main purpose is to equip women to be better disciples for Christ; then, in turn, they can make disciples.”
Interim Director Phyllis York gives an overview of the ministries, resources, and special projects of WNAC and their impact on Free Will Baptists. In the last decade, WNAC given over $2 million to IM, Inc. and North American Ministries.
WNAC recently established The Giving Tree, a fundraising campaign to increase annual income to the office to sustain its ministries and make future growth possible. For more, visit https://www.wnac.org/giving-tree/. #NAFWB
Kent Barwick is the speaker for the Tuesday night service at the 2022 National Convention. He previews his sermon from John 4: “Reaching the Hard to Reach.”
Kent is pastor of Colquitt Free Will Baptist Church.
Find all National Convention information at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #GotheExtraMile
Jim McComas is the speaker for the Monday night service at the 2022 National Convention. He previews his sermon from Luke 8:40-46: “Reaching the Hurting.”
Jim is Executive Director of Free Will Baptist Family Ministries.
Find all National Convention information at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #GotheExtraMile
Tim Baumgarten is the speaker for the Sunday night service at the 2022 National Convention. He previews his sermon from Romans 14: “Protecting Our Brother.”
Tim is celebrating 20 years as pastor of Northport Free Will Baptist Church.
Find all National Convention information at https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB #GotheExtraMile
The FWBWorship team is tasked with organizing and leading the music at each year’s National Convention. Kevin Justice, worship service coordinator, gives a preview of the worship for this year’s convention, including how you can be involved in the orchestra, praise team, or choir.
Find more about how to be part of the music at https://www.fwbworship.com/ under the “NAFWB” tab.
As the 2022 National Convention returns to the city where Impact began, Director Ken Akers talks about the history of the program and the outreach it has had over the years.
Joel Franks, the Impact chairman for Alabama Free Will Baptists, talks about the different approach Impact Birmingham is taking this year and how you and your group can get involved.
For more, visit http://www.fwbmastersmen.org/2022/05/2022-impact-birmingham/. #NAFWB
“After having come through this pandemic, being fractured the way we are, we need to have a true, heartfelt revival, and I think the National kind of sparks that; it energizes that thought throughout our association and our local churches.”
Pastor Mike Dankson serves as the prayer chairman for the Alabama Free Will Baptists convention steering committee. He encourages all Free Will Baptists to be in prayer for this summer’s meeting and the impact it could have on our denomination and our world.
“The checklist enables you [as the day-to-day grind occurs] not to miss something. And that concept, I think, plays well for church revitalization.”
Dr. Sam Rainer, president and chief consultant for Church Answers, discusses his book “The Church Revitalization Checklist” and the valuable guidance it provides for church leaders as they lead their congregations.
All of the NAFWB Rekindle coaches have received a portion of their training from the book. It is available from several retailers. #NAFWB #Train
Alabama Free Will Baptists will be hosting the National Convention for the first time since 2006. Executive Director Danny Williams talks about the excitement building in the state and the ways they are preparing to host the meeting this July.
For more information on the convention, visit https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB
The 2022 National Convention will be held at the BJCC July 24-27 in Birmingham, Alabama. Local pastor Mike Cox of Church H20 gives an overview of the activities, attractions, and restaurants available in the Birmingham area.
For more information on the convention, visit https://nafwb.org/convention/. #NAFWB
Danny Williams, Executive Director of Alabama Free Will Baptists, talks about the state’s Acts 1:8 cooperative giving program: how it was organized, how people and churches bought in to the program, and the ministries it has funded over the years.
The Acts 1:8 program is celebrating its 25th year of existence this year, and giving surpassed $600,000 for the first time in 2021. For more, visit https://www.alfwb.org/acts-1-8. #NAFWB
“It was something I wanted to do from a ministry standpoint to help me understand where I stood as a pastor and what help makes me ‘click’…that way I could share that with the leadership team, the deacon board, to help them to better understand me.
Luke Bozeman, pastor of Macedonia Free Will Baptist Church, describes his reasons for using the Birkman Method to better understand himself as a minister, his personality, and his strengths as a leader.
If you want to learn more about the Birkman Method or go through the process yourself, contact us at questions@nafwb.org. #NAFWB #Train
The Alabama Free Will Baptist Children’s Home provides hope and healing for children in need. As the Children’s Home celebrates its 75th anniversary, Executive Director Mandy Mitchell joins the podcast to tell how the home has had a positive emotional, mental, and spiritual impact on so many young people through the years. Find more about the home and its ministries at https://fwbhome.org. #NAFWB
Go Global is a missions workshop where attendees are invited to see how IM, Inc. operates and why, to understand the different goals and objectives of the mission, and see how we all fit into God’s global purpose.
Jerry Gibbs, long time missionary to France, gives an overview of Go Global workshops and how they can benefit associations, churches, and individuals.
To find more information or to host a Go Global conference at your church or association, visit https://iminc.org/go/go-global/. #NAFWB #Train
The Leadership Matters Course is an intensive course from the International Training Alliance focused on developing basic leadership skills for Christian workers in diverse cultures around the world.
Kristi Johnson of IM, Inc. joins the podcast to discuss the training and benefits participants receive from the course. Find more at https://wetrainleaders.org. #NAFWB #Train
“[Associations are] where we fellowship. That’s where like minds bind together.”
Tim York, moderator of the NAFWB, discusses the importance of associations to the health of the denomination and opportunities they have to train, grow, and minister. He also encourages pastors, deacons, and laypeople to find a way to get involved in their local association. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Michigan Free Will Baptists Promotional Director Jimmy Lawson and State Mission Board Chairman Mike Trimble talk about some international outreach partnerships being developed in the state and how churches can work to know and reach the demographics of their own community.
NAFWB is offering “Know Your Community,” helping churches discover more about the demographics and psychographics of the area around them. To find out more, email questions@nafwb.org. #NAFWB #Reach
“I was surprised that they were living here for 35 years, 40 years, 50 years, but they never heard of Jesus.”
A man who has been persecuted for his faith talks about opportunities to share the Gospel with people who have moved to the US from countries with little or no Christian witness. #NAFWB #Reach
Free Will Baptist North American Ministries hosts boot camps twice a year, offering fellowship and training for Free Will Baptist pastors. Chief Financial Officer Dr. Brad Ransom gives an overview of the boot camps and the resources offered as well as the benefits pastors can gain from them.
The next boot camp will be held May 2-3 at the National Offices in Antioch, TN. Registration is FREE, but space is limited. Call 615-760-6137 or email nam@nafwb.org for more information or to register. #NAFWB #Train
Dr. Stanley Outlaw shares practical counsel for pastors he has gleaned from his many years of service in ministry. He gives eight points from a sermon he recently preached on perseverance.
The 81-year-old knows perseverance well, as he served as professor at Welch College for over 32 years and pastored numerous Free Will Baptist churches, serving as an interim in some of those churches. #NAFWB
Joshua Riggs wraps up his series on church websites with 13 tips you need to be aware of or do on a regular basis to make sure your church website stays fresh, current, and functioning properly.
Joshua is the creator of https://www.worshipresources.church, helping you discover and learn how to use quality resources that will make your church better.
A huge “Thank You!” to Joshua for creating these website videos for us. We hope they are a helpful resource in enhancing your church’s online presence. #NAFWB
“It’s a real blessing to be able to go and provide help for people…to them, it makes a big difference.”
Kenneth Akers, Director of Master’s Men and FWB Disaster Response, talks about the various ways individuals, churches, and associations can get involved in helping those in need following a disaster. Master’s Men and Disaster Response Teams are ministries of Free Will Baptist North American Ministries.
NAFWB
“If your church website isn’t part of your church budget, it needs to be. If you don’t budget for it, if you don’t have any money to spend on it, it’s not going to be very good.”
In part five of his series on church websites, Joshua Riggs breaks down how much you should expect to pay for a website. Spoiler: it depends.
Joshua is the creator of https://www.worshipresources.church, helping churches discover and learn how to use quality resources to make them better. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
“If you put “nones” together, there are three groups; atheists, agnostics, and nothing in particular…About 1 in 5 Americans fall into the “nothing in particular” category. They are probably the largest religious group in America today.”
Dr. Ryan Burge, author of “The Nones: Where They Came From, Who They Are, and Where They Are Going,” talks about ways Christians can engage in reaching those who do not hold to any particular belief system, a quickly growing segment of our society.
Order a copy of his book: https://www.amazon.com/Nones-Where-They-Came-Going/dp/1506465854?tag=thegospcoal-20. #NAFWB #Reach
“A lot of churches have issues maintaining their sites. Unfortunately, you can go to a lot of church websites and you’ll see outdated information, or broken pages, or broken links. This doesn’t represent your church very well.”
Joshua Riggs continues his series on church websites with plans on how a church can maintain its website, including who should be responsible for maintaining it.
Joshua is the creator of https://www.worshipresources.church, helping churches discover and learn how to use quality resources to make them better. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
“It really helps cement in the hearts and minds of the people the idea that it’s the church and the home working together to do generational discipleship and pass our faith on to the next generation.”
Derek Altom of D6 Family describes how the D6 Conference is truly a conference for everyone because it has something for people in all aspects of ministry. He even reveals a special promo code for Better Together Podcast listeners!
Plan to attend the D6 Conference April 20-22 in Orlando for an opportunity to refocus, reconnect, and reset: http://d6conference.com. #NAFWB #Train
“As it relates to your entire church website, think about communicating to first-time guests. Ask yourself, ‘What questions do we need to answer that first-time guests are asking?’”
In part 3 of our series on church websites, Joshua Riggs covers the seven pages that every church website needs to have and the content on each of those pages.
Joshua is the creator of https://www.worshipresources.church, helping churches discover and learn how to use quality resources to make them better. #NAFWB #BetterTogether
Welch College President Dr. J. Matthew Pinson joins the podcast to preview the upcoming Forum22 Bible Conference.
Forum22 will be held on the Welch College campus March 6-8, featuring a slate of intergenerational speakers addressing various topics. Speakers include: Dr. Harry Reeder, Cindy Reeder, Jerry Nunes, Dr. Paul Harrison, and Dr. Jesse Owens.
Find more information and register for the conference at https://welch.edu/forum. #NAFWB
“What do you need to get a website off the ground?” Joshua Riggs presents part two of our series on church websites, highlighting the three basic building blocks and focusing on how you can launch a great website or refresh your current one.
Joshua is the creator of Worshipresources.church and worship pastor at Bethany Church. #NAFWB
The mission board of the Salem Association of Florida had a desire to help the churches within its association. They sought ways they could work with churches and partner with them to meet needs. Now, people are taking notice of the revitalization taking place in those churches.
Pastor Duane Littlefield of 1st Free Will Baptist Church of Malone discusses steps the association took to reach out to those churches in need and bring new life to their ministry.
“My goal in this series is to help you understand the basic functions of a church website: why you need one, who should maintain it, what kind of content should be on the site, what kind of tools you should use, and more.”
Joshua Riggs begins a six-part series all about church websites. Part one explores the question of whether or not a church needs a website if it already has a Facebook page. Joshua is the creator of WorshipResources.church and worship pastor at Bethany Church. #NAFWB
“Last year the average student at Welch, because of contributions to the Welch Fund, their total tuition bill was decreased by around $6,000 per student.”
David Williford of Welch College talks about the history of the Welch Offering (back to the days of Paul Ketteman) and how the offering continues to benefit students and the advancement of Christian higher education.
The 2022 Welch College offering is Sunday, February 27. Plan to receive a special offering at your church that will directly help reduce tuition costs for students. Find more ways to give to the college at https://welch.edu/give/. #NAFWB
“Before COVID, we estimated that 80-85% of churches were plateaued or declining when it came to worship attendance.”
Dr. Gordon Penfold has studied and found some defining characteristics and behaviors of pastors in revitalized (or declining) churches, using the Birkman assessment tools in his research. He wrote the book “Pastor Unique” based on his findings. Buy the book: https://www.pastorunique.com.
Dr. Penfold is one of the founders of TurnaroundPastor.com. #NAFWB
“We connect serving to the Gospel. No matter whether somebody is cooking lunch for an event or watching kids in the nursery, there needs to be a clear connection to how this is impacting the Gospel."
Josh Bennett describes how his church has created a community of serving where volunteers are trained, equipped, and appreciated. Josh is lead pastor of Awaken Church and a church planter with Free Will Baptist North American Ministries. #NAFWB #Give
”The better approach is to just meet them where they are, and to grieve along with them, to sit with them.”
In part two of our interview with David Lytle, he recounts how the Church stepped up to help he and his family in their time of grief. He also shares some dos and don’ts on how we can best comfort others in their time of mourning. #NAFWB #Train
David Lytle lost both his wife and young son within a matter of a few years to unexpected medical diagnoses. In part one of this two-part interview, he shares his story of how he was able endure through the sorrow and grief.
Part two of the interview will air this Thursday on the Better Together Podcast. #NAFWB #Train
“God has brought the nations here. Today, there are more displaced people groups than any time in human history. God is moving these nations all around…and they are at our doorstep.”
Casey Jones discusses how he founded American Dream Center in 2017 to reach the world by ministering to immigrants and internationals in his city. Find more information about American Dream Center at http://amdreamcenter.com. #NAFWB #Reach
"If [internationals] are there in your community, in your city and you encounter them, as a believer, just think 'I want that encounter to be a good encounter.'"
Clint Morgan, general director of IM, Inc., discusses opportunities believers have to spread the gospel to the nations in their own neighborhoods and communities. #NAFWB #Reach
“When we partner with people that are taking the Gospel to places we could never touch, we are truly partners in the Gospel with them to see the Kingdom expanded…it’s even more special when we celebrate it as people are actually literally going out from our congregation.”
Since 2015, Cramerton Church has sent out church planters and missionaries to California, Kenya, and Alaska. Pastor Josh Baer talks about the “sending culture” of the church.
Josh also presented a seminar at the 2021 Leadership Conference entitled “Letting Go: Developing a Sending Culture in Your Local Church,” available for download at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/. #NAFWB
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presentado en la Conferencia de Liderazgo 2021.
Descargue las notas y encuentre todos los seminarios de la conferencia en https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Purchase the book: https://store.randallhouse.com/product/husband-of-one-wife/.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presentado en la Conferencia de Liderazgo 2021.
Descargue las notas y encuentre todos los seminarios de la conferencia en https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presentado en la Conferencia de Liderazgo 2021.
Descargue las notas y encuentre todos los seminarios de la conferencia en https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presentado en la Conferencia de Liderazgo 2021.
Descargue las notas y encuentre todos los seminarios de la conferencia en https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
Presented at the 2021 Leadership Conference.
Download the notes and find all conference seminars at https://nafwb.org/2021-leadership-conference/.
“In our circumstances, that’s churches, and not so much in building and physical campuses, but people, and the structure of rebuilding our churches.”
Tim York, moderator of the NAFWB, talks about the Nehemiah Challenge, encouraging Free Will Baptists to read through the book of Nehemiah in 2022 and find their place in strengthening our churches and denomination.
Watch for more information regarding The Nehemiah Challenge on the NAFWB Facebook and at nafwb.org. #NAFWB
Following the one year anniversary of his passing, we re-air this podcast with F. Leroy Forlines, long-time professor at Welch College. Bro. Forlines shared the story of the discovery—or rediscovery—of the theology of Reformed Arminianism, a key tenet in the Free Will Baptist movement.
The Executive Office recently published “Judgment and Redemption: Confronting & Correcting Sin in the Church,” with writings from Bro. Forlines and the Ministerial Family Life Committee. The booklet is available online at https://nafwb.org/site/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Judgment-and-Redemption.pdf.
Bro. Forlines also authored several books, and other books have been written about his teachings:
Classical Arminianism: https://store.randallhouse.com/produ…/classical-arminianism/
The Quest for Truth: https://store.randallhouse.com/product/the-quest-for-truth/
Biblical Ethics: https://www.christianbook.com/…/ler…/9780892650149/pd/650149
The Promise of Arminian Theology: https://store.randallhouse.com/…/the-promise-of-arminian-t…/
The Apologetics of F. Leroy Forlines (from the Welch College Press): https://welch.edu/academics/academic-resources/welch-college-press/
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“We are providing resources and insight from a biblical perspective each and every day to pastors and leaders around the country.”
Tim Throckmorton of Family Research Council discusses the ways they are equipping pastors, leaders, and church congregants to be involved in shaping our culture with a biblical worldview.
Find more about the council at https://www.frc.org. #NAFWB
“The test of leadership is not the size of your followership. Where are you taking them, how many do you get there, and how many leaders do you produce on your way there?”
Dr. Harry Reeder, senior pastor of Briarwood Presbyterian Church, discusses the critical task of developing Christian leaders to transform the body of Christ and then our culture.
Dr. Reeder authored “3D Leadership: Defining, Developing and Deploying Christian Leaders Who Can Change the World,” available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/3D-Leadership-Developing-Deploying-Christian/dp/1527101568. #NAFWB
Tom Willey, Jr., joins the podcast to talk about his years of missionary ministry serving alongside his parents, Tom “Pop” and Mabel “Mom” Willey, which even included a person meeting with Fidel Castro.
Tom also authored a book, “I Will Build My Church: The History of the Free Will Baptist Church in Panama,” available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/I-Will-Build-My-Church/dp/1979998302. #NAFWB
“Church Answers is a place where we strive to help leaders help the church.”
Dr. Thom Rainer, founder and CEO of Church Answers, talks about the ministry resources (mostly free!) that they provide to aid leaders as they navigate the stormy waters of church ministry.
Dr. Rainer is the keynote speaker for this week’s Leadership Conference. You can watch his sessions live Monday and Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. CST on the NAFWB Facebook. #NAFWB
“I think it is wise to have Christians in the public arena.”
Dr. Ken Riggs shares his passion for education, the story of how he got involved in it, and his role on the original committee that formed the teacher education program at Free Will Baptist Bible College (now Welch College).
Find out more about the Welch College School of Education at https://welch.edu/academics/bachelors-degree-programs/school-of-education/. #NAFWB
“I found out what it was about dad [that made people flock to him]. My daddy knew how to love people…whoever they were.”
Dr. Ken Riggs joins the podcast to reflect on the life of his father, the late Raymond Riggs. Bro. Riggs served as the first full-time director of IM, Inc.
Dr. Riggs helped his dad publish an autobiography, “By the Way,” available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Way-Charles-Raymond-Riggs/dp/1978225318.
You can also read Dr. Riggs’ article, “A Tribute to Dad,” in the August-September issue of ONE Magazine: http://onemag.org/tribute_dad.htm. #NAFWB
Dr. Rob Rienow joins the podcast to discuss how churches can adopt a theology of family ministry that will engage and equip parents to make the home the primary place for faith to be passed on. Rob authored “Visionary Church: How Your Church Can Strengthen Families,” available from D6 Family: https://store.randallhouse.com/product/visionary-church/.
Rob is the founder of Visionary Family Ministries (visionaryfam.com), whose mission is to build the Church through a global reformation of family discipleship.
Dr. Melvin Worthington joins the podcast to discuss the history of the The Together Way Trust, how it began with his parents and how it continues to provide financial resources to denominational agencies.
Dr. Worthington is executive secretary emeritus of the National Association of Free Will Baptists.
Find more about The Together Way Trust at https://nafwb.org/togetherway/. #NAFWB
Dr. David Crowe, CEO of Free Will Baptist North American Ministries, discusses the upcoming Mission North America Offering (November 21) and encourages churches to participate to support the works of the ministry across the United States as well as Canada, Mexico, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.
The Mission North America Offering not only provides necessary resources for church planting, church revitalization, cross-cultural ministries, the chaplaincy, and men’s ministry, but it also provides for vital ministry funding such as conferences, training, encouragement, and other essential ministry needs to assist our established churches, church planters, revitalization pastors, chaplains and more.
The 2021 Mission North America Offering is this Sunday, November 21. For more details or to give to the offering, visit: https://www.fwbnam.com/mna/. #NAFWB
Mindy Cariker Wiggins rejoins the podcast to talk about her journey to becoming a writer, and how she was able to use experiences in her life to shape her writing.
Mindy is the Author of “The God Speaks Series” devotional books, available from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08WKL6NR6?binding=paperback&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_pc_tpbk. #NAFWB
“There is always something—big church or small church—that you can do.”
Mindy Cariker Wiggins joins the podcast to describe her calling and journey toward adoption, including ways churches can provide support for foster families, especially those with children with special needs.
November’s emphasis from the 3 for 30 Initiative is “Give.” Find more resources at https://nafwb.org/give/. #NAFWB
“There’s a lot of misunderstanding about the call to pastor, and perhaps a lot of fellows out there are waiting for some kind of mystical experience that will bowl them over and they feel helpless to resist. That’s really not what the call to the pastorate is like.”
Dr. Robert Picirilli discusses his book “Teacher, Leader, Shepherd,” outlining biblical passages regarding the pastor, his ministry, and his role.
Order the book from D6 Family: https://store.randallhouse.com/product/teacher-leader-shepherd/. #NAFWB
“Do you want your church to be at its best in a changing culture? Come to the Leadership Conference.”
Dr. Thom S. Rainer, Founder & CEO of Church Answers and featured speaker for the 2021 Leadership Conference, previews his sessions and encourages pastors to attend. In addition to Dr. Rainer, the conference will feature breakout sessions, Q&A panels, and a great time of education and fellowship.
Register or find more info at https://nafwb.org/leader. #NAFWB
“It is a great freedom for pastors' wives when they come to the point when the Lord reveals to them…that God will work in your life and He will perform that which is needed until the day of Jesus Christ.”
As Pastor Appreciation Month comes to a close, we do not want to forget about our pastors’ wives. Mrs. Carolyn Dwyer, who has served in the ministry wife her husband over 50 years, joins the podcast to encourage wives in the ministry and to provide church members with ways they can support their pastor’s wife. #NAFWB #PastorAppreciationMonth
“The goal of this journal was to give parents another chance to speak into their kids’ lives.” Dr. Ron Hunter, Jr., executive director and CEO of D6 Family, discusses “About You, About Me: Generational Legacy Journal,” a tool for parents or grandparents to tell their story and share their experiences while leaving an inspiring legacy for generations.
Order a copy: https://store.randallhouse.com/product/about-you-about-me/.
Find more of our Train resources at https://nafwb.org/train/. #NAFWB
“I’ve had a growing concern about the fact that so many people express the idea that they are Christians when, in fact, their lives don’t seem to give evidence of being Christians.”
Dr. Robert Picirilli discusses his book “Discipleship: The Expression of Saving Faith,” what the life of a disciple should look like, and what the New Testament says about the requirements for salvation. You can purchase the book from D6 Family: https://store.randallhouse.com/product/discipleship-the-expression-of-saving-faith/.
Find more of our Train resources at https://nafwb.org/train/.
Steve Greenwood and Jacob Riggs join the podcast to talk about the conversations we can have with our children to know when they are ready to be baptized. #NAFWB
Steve and Jacob have written a resource with D6 Family, "Baptism: For Kids and Parents," available for families and churches: https://store.randallhouse.com/product/baptism-for-kids-and-parents/.
They also presented a seminar at the 2021 National Convention on the subject: https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-pnppv-10bb20f.
“Practical wisdom—how to live everyday life as a Christian—is one of the important things that I think sometimes is lacking in our lives, and I think it is very needed and very helpful.”
Dr. Robert Picirilli joins the podcast to discuss his new book, “Readings in Proverbs: Ancient Wisdom for a Modern Age.” The book brings different passages from Proverbs on the same subject together to make lessons for practical Christian living.
Order a copy for yourself or for a group study: https://store.randallhouse.com/product/readings-in-proverbs/. #NAFWB
James Benedict, president of Arms of Compassion Ministry, joins the podcast to discuss how we can meet the needs of the homeless in our communities and show compassion in every situation.
Find more about Arms of Compassion at https://armsofcompassion.org. #NAFWB https://youtu.be/WrHnP_jUrcE
“We want to reach a community, that can reach a student, that can then go back and reach the world.”
Approximately 1.1 million international students were enrolled in colleges and universities in the U.S. last year. Tyler Penn shares how we can minister to the international students in the colleges in our own communities.
Tyler and Kellie Penn and their family serve with IM, Inc., working with international students at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Their mission is to reach students who will then return to their home countries and spread the Gospel there. Find out more about how you can support the Penns: https://iminc.org/im-missionaries/tyler-and-kellie-penn/. #NAFWB
“Ministry is about getting involved in people’s lives.” Josh* shares how reaching people with the Gospel can start with giving practical help to meet their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Josh and his family will serve as field workers with The Hanna Project at Diez42, helping immigrants, refugees, and others in Spain. Find out how to support Josh and his family at https://hannaproject.com/who-we-are/staff-field-workers/joshandbethany/. #NAFWB
*Full name withheld for security purposes.
Angy Calvert shares how God brought her out of a life of lesbianism and what we can do to help those who struggle. #NAFWB
Approximately 1.8 million people are incarcerated in jail or prison. The church has a role to play in ministering to them.
Frank Gregory serves as pastor of Paden Free Will Baptist Church and chaplain at John H Lilley Correctional Center in Oklahoma. He discusses how he got involved in prison chaplaincy and the ways we can minister in those situations. #NAFWB
“It was a way for me to get out in the community and meet community members as well as police officers who may be unchurched and need an introduction to the Gospel.” Chris Dotson has been involved in chaplaincy for the last 20 years and he has seen the ministry and outreach opportunities that come with serving as a chaplain.
Chris serves as chaplain with the Morristown Police Department, TN State Highway Patrol, and the Secret Service. He is also the state director for the Tennessee State Association of Free Will Baptists. #NAFWB
CH (COL) Terry Austin (U.S. Army, Retired) talks about the emotions and hardships our soldiers and veterans are facing caused by the events that continue to unfold in Afghanistan. Hear how you can pray for them and minister to them during this difficult time. #NAFWB #Afghanistan
Terry serves as Chaplain Support Officer for Free Will Baptist North American Ministries
Heath and Joni Hubbard are part the Hope Alive church planting team through IM, Inc. They join the podcast to discuss God’s leading of each of them into missions (with a shoutout to ETEAM Student Mission Program), and how their church reaches people in a country where 99.7% of the population are lost without Christ and without hope. #NAFWB
Find out more about the Hubbards' ministry and how you can support them at https://iminc.org/im-missionaries/heath-and-joni-hubbard/.