Behind the Sermon: Recent Episodes
First Church Springdale
On this episode, Pastors Todd and Andrew play a rousing game of "Did John Wesley Really Say That?" All this and more on this episode of Behind the Sermon!
First Church Springdale Pastors Andrew & Jen go Behind The Sermon and literally take this podcast episode to a new level... It's a brand new decade! This week's topic is Spiritual Gifts. Enjoy!
On this episode of Behind the Sermon, special guest Pastor Danny Reding shares about the role of children in leading worship, the difference between the chromatic and diatonic scales, and the creative task of making old hymns new again.
On this episode of Behind The Sermon, Pastors Andrew & Todd highlight the most fundamental aspects of our faith and how they relate to our commitment to the Church.
On this episode of Behind the Sermon, pastors Andrew & Jen talk about entering Stewardship season, how important it is to honor all the Saints who have gone before us, and also touch on the official dedication service we've planned for our new Chapel worship space this Sunday.
On this episode of Behind the Sermon, Pastors Andrew and Todd talk about skipping the month of October, the proper place of spiritual experiences, and following Jesus with your entire life.
On this pumpkin spice-flavored episode of Behind the Sermon, Pastors Jen and Andrew choke down pumpkin flavored delectables (while Todd watches), talk about their different preaching styles, and the required humility for revival.
On this episode, Pastors Jen, Andrew, and Todd talk about the vital role of prayer for revival in our own hearts and awakening in our community.
On this episode, Pastors Todd and Jen talk about... you know, stuff. All this and more on "Adjacent to the Message"!
On this episode, the band is back together as Pastors Jen, Andrew, and Todd remember where they were 18 years ago and talk about what it means when we disagree with God and one another.
On this episode, Pastors Todd and Andrew discuss their Labor Day adventures and our upcoming worship series, "Hungering for God."
On this episode, Pastors Todd and Andrew have a rootin' tootin' good time talking about our Grow First Bible studies, the role of tradition in faith, and the proper use of the word, "Hootenanny."
On this episode of Behind the Sermon, school is back in session with Pastors Jen and Todd lamenting poorly timed stoplights, proper child drop-off procedures, and the key difference between "almost" and "altogether" Christians.
On this episode of Behind the Sermon, Pastors Jen and Todd give a Peruvian update, reflect on last week's sermon about Naaman the Commander, and give an inside look at how worship services are planned.
On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we talk about everyone's favorite Bible character... Tertius? Hear about the vital role of Paul's secretary and our thoughts on raising children in the faith!
On this episode of Behind the Sermon, Pastor Todd sits down with Amanda Worthy and Josh DePree to talk about our discipleship plans for the Fall. Listen and learn how you can grow with us!
Brothers & Sisters in Christ, we are no longer slaves to sin! Learn this lesson - and others - as Pastors Andrew Thompson & Todd Lovell go Behind this week's Sermon: Onesimus the Slave.
On this episode of Behind The Sermon Pastors Todd Lovell and Jen Ryerson talk about the proper pronunciation of Ester, the role of patriotic worship services, and the heavenly purpose behind our greatest fears.
On this episode of Behind the sermon, we talk about the spiritual gift of coffee consumption, the holy hilarity of Christian memes, and the unlikely hero of Gideon.
On this episode, Pastors Todd & Andrew talk about the strange predicament of sermon length, preaching unfamiliar Bible characters, and the undeniable scriptural case for women in ministry.
On this episode of Behind the Sermon, our First Church pastors talk about preaching a sermon about a preacher preaching a sermon. All this and more on this episode of Behind the Sermon!
On this week's Behind The Sermon Podcast, Rev Andrew Thompson welcomes back the Rev Jen Ryerson from England! They retrace the Wesley family story and are able to connect it to our own call stories, which will be the focus of this week's message. Also, in keeping with Rev Jen's experience abroad, Rev Andrew suggests our organist may want to consider bringing in an official church cat.
Rev Todd Lovell & Rev Andrew Thompson dig deep into the struggles and joys of answering God's call and specifically preview Pastor Todd's message of "Blessed Responsibility" on this week's Behind The Sermon podcast.
With Pastor Jen away in jolly ol' England, Pastors Todd & Andrew 'take a dive' into medieval cathedrals, the passage of time, and the calling of Jonah. Cheers, mate!
On this spoiler free episode of Behind The Sermon, we talk divine calling, early flights to England and ancient Near Eastern Cosmology. Rev Todd Lovell, Rev Jen Ryerson, & Rev Danny Reding
Pastors Todd Lovell & Andrew Thompson preview the coming few weeks as they explore the importance of their individual Call Stories. They also welcome Betsy Hein to the Youth Ministry team on this week's Behind The Sermon podcast episode.
Join host Rev Todd Lovell with Rev Jen Ryerson on this week's Behind The Sermon podcast as they welcome (and quiz...) First Church Springdale's new Youth Minister, Josh DePree!
We go waaay behind the sermon this week as we continue "The Way Of The Cross" in anticipation of the risen Savior. Join host Rev Todd Lovell, Rev Andrew Thompson, & Rev Jen Ryerson on this week's Behind The Sermon podcast.
We're proud to welcome Daniel Worthy to this Behind The Sermon episode! Daniel tells his story about the new altar he fashioned for the Chapel. Tune in! With Rev Andrew Thompson & Rev Jen Ryerson.
As we walk the way of the cross, we move from creation, to fall, to repentance. This is the necessary rhythm to life with Jesus. This Behind The Sermon #podcast episode also serves as an introduction to our artist-in-residence for Lent, Katherine Owen. With Rev Andrew Thompson & Rev Jen Ryerson.
The Fall. This Behind The Sermon podcast episode is for those who have sinned and fallen short. In other words - everyone. Host Rev Todd Lovell discusses the different historical interpretations of the fallen state with Rev Andrew Thompson & Rev Jen Ryerson.
Today is Ash Wednesday which marks the beginning of Lent. Tune in to hear some very meaningful discussion about this season and the imposition of the ashes on this week's Behind The Sermon #podcast with Rev Andrew Thompson & Rev Jen Ryerson.
God’s love is meant for all people and the ministries of the church are meant for all people. We welcome all people into our fellowship as children of God. Go Behind The Sermon in this week's #podcast with Rev Andrew Thompson & Rev Jen Ryerson.
Tune in to this week's Behind The Sermon #podcast with Rev Andrew Thompson, and Host Rev Jen Ryerson where they talk about wrapping up the current sermon series at First Church, our new incoming Youth Minister, and an important message from Bishop Gary Mueller about the upcoming General Conference.
WHAT is modern evangelism?....and WHY is it important? Tune in to this week's Behind The Sermon podcast with Rev Andrew Thompson, Rev Jen Ryerson, and Host Rev Todd Lovell.
Inspirational podcast this week with Rev Todd Lovell & Rev Jen Ryerson talking about the power of small group study. Tune in!
Rev Andrew Thompson, Rev Jen Ryerson, & Rev Todd Lovell are "On Location" in the newly renovated Chapel at First Church in this week's podcast. We're Letting Our Light Shine in Downtown Springdale, Arkansas!
First Church Pastors Rev Todd Lovell & Rev Jen Ryerson talk with Amanda Worthy about First Church children ministries in this podcast episode of Behind The Sermon!
First Church Pastors Rev Andrew Thompson & Rev Jen Ryerson & Host Rev Todd Lovell talk about the brand new Sermon Series entitled "Let Your Light Shine" in this podcast episode of Behind The Sermon!
Happy New Year! Join pastors Rev Andrew Thompson & Rev Jen Ryerson & Host Rev Todd Lovell as they answer some fan mail, talk about Baptism of the Lord Sunday, and get their New Year podcast on in style!
Join pastors Andrew Thompson and Jen Knepp Ryerson for this week's podcast. It's the final episode in 2018! New Years Resolutions, Sneeze critiques, and a word about the Virgin Mary. Don't miss it!
After a brief hiatus, we're back! Join pastors Andrew, Todd, and Jen as they talk about what's been going on here at the church, offer a special podcast challenge, and look into the first two weeks of our Advent sermon series.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson begins our 2018 Advent series teaching from John 1:1-5 and 9-14.
In celebration of Christ the King Sunday, Rev. Andrew C. Thompson teaches from Colossians 1:11-20 about the lordship of Jesus Christ.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson teaches from 2 Corinthians 9:6-10, challenging us, in all things, to give of ourselves knowing that God is the source of our giving.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson teaches from Matthew 23:23-24 about giving more than just the material.
Pastors Andrew and Todd discuss an upcoming event, answer a question from the mailbag, and look ahead to the next sermon in our Overflow series.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson begins our new sermon series, Overflow, with a look at Malachi 3:10-12.
Pastors Andrew, Todd, and Jen talk about the upcoming General Conference in February 2019 and our town hall meetings on November 4 and 14 to prepare for it.
Pastors Andrew, Todd, and Jen answer a question from the mailbag and look ahead to Trunk or Treat 2018 before diving into our new sermon series, Overflow, which begins this Sunday.
Teaching from Acts 4:23-31, Rev. Jennifer Ryerson challenges us to be bold in our faith.
Teaching from James 3:13-18, Rev. Danny Reding teaches on the importance of living our lives as proof of the change that God is making in us.
Pastors Andrew, Jen, and Danny take a look at events happening throughout this week and look ahead to a special sermon double feature this weekend.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson concludes our Commitment series with a look at God's Commitment to Us from Romans 8:31-39.
Pastors Andrew, Todd, and Jen discuss the pumpkin season, preaching this past Sunday, and look ahead to this week’s sermon rounding out our Commitment series as we consider the commitment God makes to us through His Son, Jesus.
Rev. Danny Reding preaches from Daniel 3:13-18 about having faith and commitment in tough times.
Rev. Todd Lovell preaches from Daniel 3:13-18 about having faith and commitment in tough times.
Pastors Jen, Todd, and Danny provide a PSA, address a fun fact, and look ahead to this week’s sermon on faith in hard times.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson teaches from Nehemiah 4:10-17 about committing to be the people of God, even in the face of adversity.
Pastors Andrew and Todd reflect on New Room Conference 2018 and look ahead to this week’s sermon on being the Church together.
Teaching from Joshua 24, Rev. Andrew C. Thompson examines the need not just to commit ourselves, but to commit our families, to the service of the Lord.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson addresses Deuteronomy 30:11-20, challenging us to consider what it means to commit ourselves to God.
Pastors Andrew and Todd reflect on the beginning of our Grow First studies, consider a fun fact, and examine what it means to be in covenant.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson begins the Commitment series with a message on Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7.
Commitment can be a scary thing, but it's vitally important as disciples of Jesus. Join Pastors Andrew and Todd as they discuss this and more looking ahead to our upcoming sermon series.
Pastors Andrew, Todd, and Jen talk about the upcoming Bible studies in our new Grow First programming, youth Bible studies, and discuss the love that we find when we encounter Jesus.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson concludes the First Thessalonians sermon series with a look at 1 Thessalonians 5.
Pastors Andrew and Todd respond to a mailbag question: What do we do when we disagree with a teaching of the church?
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson continues the First Thessalonians series with a look at 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8.
Pastors Andrew Thompson, Jennifer Ryerson, and special guest, Pastor Matthew Johnson of Central United Methodist Church Rogers, discuss the topic of sanctification in anticipation of our upcoming sermon on First Thessalonians 4. The trio also discuss the back to school season and a fun fact.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson continues the First Thessalonians sermon series with a look at 1 Thessalonians 3.
Pastors Andrew Thompson and Todd Lovell discuss this week’s fun fact, provide a PSA, and look ahead to the upcoming sermon on 1 Thessalonians 3.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson continues the First Thessalonians sermon series with a look at 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8.
Pastors Andrew Thompson, Jennifer Ryerson, and Todd Lovell answer a question from the mailbag and look ahead to this week's sermon over 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson continues our First Thessalonians series with a look at 1 Thessalonians 1:5b-10.
Catch up with pastors Andrew Thompson, Jennifer Ryerson, and Todd Lovell and hear more about what's coming next in our First Thessalonians series.
Rev. Jennifer Ryerson preaches on Jesus' invitation to "Come, and find rest" in Matthew 11:28-30.
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson begins a new sermon series with a look at 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5a.
Pastor Todd Lovell and Joshua Bland answer a question from the Mailbag and introduce a new segment: Real-Time Sermon.
Pastors Todd Lovell and Jennifer Ryerson discuss engaging the Scriptures during sermon preparation and take a look ahead at the upcoming sermon "Jesus says, 'Come, and Find Rest.'"
Rev. Andrew Thompson and Rev. Jennifer Ryerson answer a series of questions from the Mailbag and look ahead to this week's sermon on Fellowship and Faith Sharing.
Pastors Andrew Thompson and Jennifer Ryerson take a brief look at Local Mission Project and give an insightful preview to this week's sermon on Holy Communion.
Pastors Todd Lovell, Andrew Thompson, and Jennifer Ryerson reflect on the Annual Conference and look ahead to this week's sermon on Outreach and Missions. Additionally, they introduce a new segment featuring producer Joshua Bland entitled "Fun Facts with Josh."
Rev. Andrew Thompson and Rev. Todd Lovell talk about the mission trip to Cuba and looking ahead to this week's sermon on spending time in the Bible.
This week, Pastors Todd and Jen try once again to make podcast magic with the help from the ole' computerized recording device. We tell awkward melon-themed riddles, play mailbag-jingle roulette, and talk about our upcoming worship series called Growing in Grace. All this and more on this episode of Behind the Sermon.
On this episode, Pastors Todd and Jen get pushed out of the nest and hope they can fly as the try to podcast sans The Man Who Does Not Speak. We talk bands, but not that kind, and the fear and freedom of being truly known. All this and more on this episode of Behind the Sermon.
On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we contemplate the real possibility of becoming a used furniture store, talk about one of the largest cities in Tennessee, and reflect on what Christ's ascension has to do with the Tower of Babel. All this and more on this episode of Behind the Sermon.
"On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we ask Rev. Judy Van Hoose the really important questions, like "What exactly is a horned frog?", "What's the difference between elders and deacons?" and "When will Todd be back?" All this and more on this episode of Behind the Sermon."
In this week’s episode of “Behind the Sermon,” we talk about the far-off land of Franklin, TN, the use of biblical commentaries, and the nightly rituals of the Thompson household. All this and more as we discuss the upcoming sermon, “Covenant,” in our “Family Faith” worship series.
This week we talk about the hope of 9-year old theologians, the insight of Swiss statistics, and the role of Christian fathers. All this and more on this week’s episode of “Behind the Sermon.”
In this week’s episode of “Behind the Sermon,” we talk about the plant-like quality of children, the love of Jesus and the Razorbacks, and the stickiness of faith. All this and more as we discuss the upcoming sermon, “Cultivation,” in our “Family Faith” worship series.
In this week’s episode of “Behind the Sermon,” we talk about the energizing effect of vitamins and coke products, the futility of learning dead languages, and how youth are a mirror of the church. All this and more as we discuss the upcoming sermon, “Formation,” in our “Family Faith” worship series.
In this week’s episode of “Behind the Sermon,” we reflect on our progression as professional podcasters, the massive identity-making might of the military, and how consumerism creates complications when connecting to communities. All this alliteration and more as we discuss the final sermon in our Family Faith worship series, entitled “Connection.”
In this week’s episode of “Behind the Sermon,” we talk about what we learned from our Family Faith worship series, make the connection between worship and the World Series, and pull the meaning out of a word that means “pull meaning out.” All this and more as we look forward to All Saints’ Day and our upcoming sermon, “The Resurrection and the Life.”
“In this episode of Behind the Sermon, we challenge the month of November to bring it on, champion the grammatical eloquence of the southern “Y’all,” and chat about the stewardship of God’s Holy Spirit.”
“In this week’s OVERSIZED episode of Behind the Sermon, we anticipate the upcoming visit from our Bishop by talking about the curious beginnings of Methodist Bishops, the missional impulse of Wesleyan theology, and the spiritual practice of itineracy. All this and more on this week’s episode of Behind the Bishop…err…Sermon.”
“In this week’s special Thanksgiving episode of Behind the Sermon, we discuss our upcoming Advent Worship Series, ‘Watching From The Walls.'”
“This week, we discuss how the delicious doctrine of the incarnation, how assuming brings salvation, and the unusual grace given to Mary through her unexpected visit. All this and more on this episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“In this episode, we talk about how the scriptures are strangely silent about all things Joseph, how Matthew and Luke tell the same nativity story very differently, and how Egypt is redeemed by some holy refugees. All this and more on this very merry episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“This week we’re running on coke zero fumes as we battle Advent exhaustion. We talk about how John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus even in utero and presents a horrifying account of God’s good news. All this and more as we talk about the upcoming sermon, “Elizabeth’s Surprise,” on this episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“In this spoiler-free episode of Behind the Sermon, we most definitely do NOT talk about Star Wars: The Force Awakens. We do however talk about awakening our sacramental imagination and exploring what the nativity scene has to teach us about the mystery of the incarnation. All this and much more on this week’s episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“This week Behind the Sermon is back and better than ever! We knock the dust off our podcast voices and talk about lowering the bar on new year’s resolutions, traveling out of town while serving as a pastor, and thinking of ways that sermons can lead to new ministries. All this and more on “way-too-late” episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we contemplate our own mortality, discuss the lost art of fasting, and talk about our new worship series. All this and more as we prepare for the season of Lent on this episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we talk about the forgiveness AND power of divine grace, Todd’s strange familiarity with maximum security prisons, and the Old Testament model for New Testament worship. All this and more on this week’s episode of Behind the Sermon!”
“In this episode of Behind the Sermon, we take a fun-filled romp through the joyous topic of human suffering. It’s not the most pleasant of topics, but suffering is perhaps the most common experience to all humankind. So come suffer along with us on this week’s Behind the Sermon.”
“On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we talk about friendly strangers, harmonious inconsistencies, and suffering fools. All this huff and stuff and more on this week’s episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we talk about the energizing effect of penance, chronological vs thematic preaching, and the prophetic witness of Peyton Manning. All this and more on this “trying” episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we reflect on the biblical significance of Andrew’s 40th birthday, talk about the invitational power of the Holy Week rhythm, and eventually end up talking about a sermon. All this and more on this episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we talk about the faith of Judas Iscariot, the response-ability of God’s grace, and the new creation revealed in the crucifixion and the resurrection. All this and more on this Holy Week episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we recount our experiences in our Holy Week services, remember the Emmaus story, and recognize the real presence of Jesus in rites and rituals. All this and more on this episode of Behind the Sermon.”
“On this episode of Behind the Sermon, we interview our newest staff person, Tiffany Webb, and talk about how churches may appropriately use the language of business, why the Calico Rock High School mascot is the Pirate, and what we would do if a penguin lived in our freezer. All this and more with our special guest star, Tiffany Webb, in this episode of Behind the Sermon.”
We’re excited to present the first episode of our “Behind the Sermon” podcast!
Rev. Andrew C. Thompson and Rev. Todd Lovell invite you inside the minds of your pastors as they prepare for their upcoming sermons and worship series.
This week they discuss the upcoming worship series “Family Faith,” beginning on September 27th.