Host: TJ Freeman

Summary: In this podcast episode, TJ Freeman addresses common dilemmas faced by Christians when starting to read the Bible. He offers practical advice on developing consistent and meaningful Bible reading habits

Key Points:

• Common Bible Reading Struggles: There can be a lot of questions, and varying opinions on how to answer those questions, surrounding studying the Bible. 
• The Importance of Understanding the Text: It's important to understand the text directly rather than relying on commentaries or devotionals initially.
• Recommended Study Plan: First do a flyover over the text by reading it all at once if possible. Next read a chapter every day for a week with every chapter of the book. Finally, reread the book and jot down anything that stuck out in the book. 

Listener Takeaways:

• Read the ESV translation. It is an easy but accurate translation of the Scriptures to read. 
• Start in the book of Ephesians! It is a great place to start for a Christian new to studying the Bible. 
• Persevere in Bible study, even when it's difficult to understand or fit into a busy schedule. Reading and studying Scripture is vital for long-term spiritual growth and fulfillment.

Connect with Us:

• Website: backtorurality.com
• Social Media: Facebook

Host: TJ Freeman

Summary: In this podcast episode, TJ Freeman addresses common doubts about Christian faith, particularly focusing on questions of salvation and assurance. He shares his personal struggle with these doubts, triggered during his middle school years, and discusses how intellectual, emotional, and willful commitments are integral to genuine faith.

Key Points:

• Common Doubts in the Faith: Many people struggle with doubt. Some struggle because they are not a Christian and need to come to saving faith in Christ. Others struggle because they come up against something unfamiliar in Scripture or can't seem to overcome a sin struggle. 
• The Importance of Assurance in Salvation: Even though doubt is a common struggle, it's wise to not push it to the back burner. Instead, doubts should be dealt with, examined, and taken to the Lord.
• Threefold Test of True Faith: This test helps people examine whether their minds, emotions, and commitments have been changed since becoming a Christian. 

Listener Takeaways:

• Examine your life and pray! Christians are those have been changed by the gospel and are seeking to live for the glory of God. 
• Christians, by the illumination of the Holy Spirit, are able to understand Scripture and see sin in themselves. 
• Represent Christ wherever he has placed you so others can experience the joy of being a Christian.

Connect with Us:

• Website: backtorurality.com
• Social Media: Facebook

Host: TJ Freeman

Summary:
In this episode, TJ Freeman discusses the fundamental practice of reading the Bible. He addresses common struggles such as finding time to read, understanding the content, and dealing with feelings of guilt. TJ offers practical advice and encouragement to help listeners engage with Scripture more effectively.

Key Points:

• Struggles with Reading the Bible: Many people find it challenging to make time for Bible reading amidst their busy lives. Others may be unsure how to approach it or feel overwhelmed by its content.
• Practical Advice: TJ provides tips on how to start reading the Bible, interpret its messages, and integrate its teachings into daily life.
• Encouragement: The episode emphasizes that engaging with the Bible should be a transformative and positive experience, rather than a source of guilt or confusion.

Listener Takeaways:

• Find a manageable and consistent routine for Bible reading.
• Approach the Bible with an open mind, ready to learn and grow.
• Seek guidance and ask questions when you encounter difficulties in understanding the text.
• Remember that the goal is to deepen your relationship with God through His Word.

Connect with Us:

• Website: backtorurality.com
• Social Media: Facebook

Episode Description:
In this episode, Pastor TJ Freeman addresses common struggles Christians face in their relationship with God, such as finding Bible reading unengaging, experiencing a stagnant prayer life, and feeling disconnected during church services. He offers practical advice on rekindling a love for God, drawing from personal experiences and scriptural insights. Join us as we simplify and refocus our spiritual walk to foster a deeper, more meaningful connection with the Lord.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Admitting Struggles in Faith:
   • Common frustrations in a Christian's walk with the Lord.
   • Feeling disconnected from the Bible and prayer.
2. Challenges in Bible Reading:
   • The Bible feeling outdated or irrelevant.
   • Overwhelmed by complex passages and long lists.
   • Time constraints and lack of excitement.
3. Difficulties in Prayer Life:
   • Feeling like prayers are unheard or ineffective.
   • Comparing oneself to others' seemingly eloquent prayers.
   • Forgetting to pray or lacking meaningful prayer time.
4. Engagement in Church:
   • Struggling to stay focused during sermons.
   • Not feeling emotionally connected to worship music.
   • Kids' reluctance to attend church.
5. Simplifying and Refocusing:
   • Clearing the clutter to start fresh in your spiritual walk.
   • Emphasizing the basics of Christian faith in rural settings.
6. Loving God:
   • Jesus' greatest commandment: Loving God with all your heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:34-38).
   • Understanding love as a choice and an active effort.
   • Learning to love God despite struggles, trials, and past experiences.
7. Transformation through Renewal:
   • The role of renewing your mind in spiritual transformation (Romans 12:1-2).
   • Loving what God loves and hating what He hates.
   • Actively engaging in transforming thoughts and behaviors to align with God's will.
8. Practical Steps:
   • Addressing negative thoughts and cultivating positive ones.
   • Embracing difficult circumstances and people with Christ-like love.
   • Memorizing and meditating on key scriptures to renew your mind.

Conclusion:

• Encouragement to embrace the basics of loving God and renewing your mind.
• Emphasizing that transformation is a collaborative process between God's power and our active participation.

Scripture References:

• Matthew 22:34-38: Jesus' teaching on the greatest commandment.
• Romans 12:1-2: The call to be transformed by the renewal of your mind.

Call to Action:

• Reflect on your current relationship with God.
• Take practical steps to renew your mind and rekindle your love for God.
• Engage actively in your spiritual growth for the benefit of your soul, community, and the glory of God.

Subscribe and Follow:

• Stay updated with new episodes by subscribing to our podcast.
• Follow us on social media for more encouragement and resources.

Episode Description:
In this episode of Back to Rurality, Pastor TJ Freeman draws a compelling parallel between the surprising success of Dollar General in remote areas and the potential for the church to thrive in rural communities. TJ explores how the church can adopt a similar mindset to effectively spread the gospel in small towns and rural places. The challenge is for rural Christians to see the significance of the role they play in God's plan to glorify Himself through the church in the middle of nowhere. 

Key Points:

• Dollar General: Discover how Dollar General manages to flourish in the most unexpected, remote locations and what this means for rural ministry.
• Personal Insights: TJ shares his personal journey from city life to becoming a contented rural pastor, along with the unique challenges and opportunities this transition has presented.
• Biblical Foundations: Understand the scriptural basis for God's glory being made visible in all places, including the most isolated rural areas.
• Healthy Rural Churches: Emphasizing the importance of healthy churches and Christian communities in rural settings for God's greater glory.
• Call to Action: Encouraging Christians in rural areas to see their role in God’s plan and the church’s mission.

Listener Takeaways:

• How a secular business can inspire the church’s mission in remote areas.
• The importance of rural ministry and how it aligns with God's purpose.
• Practical steps for building and maintaining healthy Christian communities in small towns.

Join TJ in this thought-provoking episode as he encourages rural Christians to embrace their unique role in showcasing God’s glory right where they are. Whether you're in a bustling city or a quiet countryside, there's a place for you in God's grand plan.

In this introductory episode, rural pastor TJ Freeman explores the significance of living and glorifying God in remote areas. TJ shares personal anecdotes and biblical insights, discussing the challenges and spiritual opportunities unique to small-town life. He emphasizes the importance of healthy churches and strong Christian communities in rural settings. Join TJ as he delves into the purpose and impact of living for God's glory, no matter where you are.

Key Points:

• Living and glorifying God in rural areas
• Personal journey from city life to rural pastoring
• The biblical foundation for spreading God's glory
• Challenges of maintaining a healthy church in small towns

Tune in for an inspiring discussion on embracing God's plan, even in the middle of nowhere.

What comes to mind when you think about rural places? If you live in the middle of nowhere -- and want your life to be pleasing to God, this podcast is for you! Tune in to the trailer to learn more!