Church and Main

What happens when you replace human-driven church growth strategies with a prayer-centered approach? In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Jeff, who recently completed his doctoral dissertation on the role of prayer in evangelism, to explore just that. Pastor Geoff Mitchell opens up about his personal prayer journey, especially amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. His experiences of prayer walking through Midtown Memphis and the resulting transformation in his spiritual life underscore a powerful message: true church growth relies on divine activity more than human effort.

Suggested Reading and Listening:

Is There Hope for Liberal Christianity with Geoff Mitchell | Episode 37

The Future of the Disciples of Christ with Geoff Mitchell | Episode 105

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In this episode, theologian Ted Smith explores the transformation of denominations in the United States, moving from broad structures to more specialized affinity groups. The shift is driven by societal changes, leading to more homogeneous and smaller denominations. Smith highlights advantages like reduced conflict, clearer paths to ordination, and lower institutional overhead. Despite benefits, challenges include the loss of diverse viewpoints and potential alignment with political movements. The discussion also addresses the evolution of theological education in response to current trends and the evolving landscape for seminaries.

Suggested Reading and Listening:

The Aftermath of the United Methodist General Conference with Drew McIntyre | Episode 187

Inclusion, Pluralism and the Presbyterian Church (USA) with Jack Haberer | Episode 188

Predictions About the Future of the Christian Church with Ryan Burge (Russell Moore Show)

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In this solo episode, Dennis looks at the first Presidential debate and the tendency in American politics to see our presidential candidates as saviors.

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The 226th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) is set to meet soon in Salt Lake City.  One of the many issues to be discussed is a proposal called the "Olympia Overture," which would formally prohibit discrimination against LGBTQ Presbyterians, but could according to some make it hard for those with different theological interpretations to remain in the denomination.  In this episode, I talked with retired PC(USA) pastor and former editor of Presbyterian Outlook Jack Haberer about the proposal and what it would mean for the denomination.

Suggested Reading:

Embracing Diversity Without Exclusion (article by Jack Haberer)

Articles for and against the Olympia Overture

A Statement in Support of the Olympia Overture from Past Moderators and Vice Moderators

The Aftermath of the United Methodist General Conference with Drew McIntyre | Episode 187

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What happens when a historic denomination faces a seismic shift? Join us as Drew McIntyre, our returning Methodist guest, unpacks the significant developments from the recent United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte. We explore the groundbreaking rescinding of language that restricted LGBTQ clergy and marriages, and Drew offers keen insights into the potential impact and historical context of these changes, including the consequences of the now-expired legislation that facilitated church disaffiliation.

Amidst these sweeping changes, we tackle the structural complexities arising from the schism within the United Methodist Church and the inception of the Global Methodist Church. How might the loss of diverse voices and perspectives shape the future of both denominations? Drawing parallels to political divides, we reflect on the potential for new ideological conflicts or, conversely, the possibility for renewed missional focus.

Show Notes:

Drew's Articles at Firebrand Magazine

Theology of Black Lives Matter-Episode 165

Faith In the Comics-Episode 134

The Antifragile Church- Episode 106

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We tend to think Evangelicals helped create Christian Nationalism, but did Mainline Protestantism have a role? I sat down with Beau Underwood, co-author of "Baptizing America: How Mainline Protestants Helped to Build Christian Nationalism," to explore the historical roots and contemporary impact of Christian nationalism in America. Beau talks about how mainline Protestants have laid the groundwork for modern expressions of Christian nationalism, highlighting pivotal moments like President Truman's endorsement of the revised standard version of the Bible in 1952 and President Eisenhower's active role in religious affairs. Beau wants to shed light on the responsibility of Mainline Protestant churches in addressing their historical complicity and suggests practical steps for repentance and change within their communities.

Show Notes:

Baptizing America book (the promo code is BAPODCAST)

Word and Way Magazine (includes several articles related to the book)

Episode 181 with Ted Peters (another view on Christian Nationalism)

Episode 76 with Brian Kaylor (on Religious Freedom in Russia)

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In this episode, I revisit a video from early 2023 with Lutheran Deacon Nina Joygaard where she interviews me on how to do spiritual practices as someone with autism and ADHD.

Prayer Lab Minute on the Road Interview with Deacon Nina

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In this episode, I welcome back  Steve Thomason, an Associate Professor for Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Luther Seminary. Steve shares insights on enriching your spiritual journey through practices like prayer, silence, and community. He addresses overcoming barriers to spiritual practices in today's world and discusses adaptations for those with ADHD or on the autism spectrum. We also look at how spiritual practices can emphasize genuine discipleship over mere church membership.

Show notes:

Steve's website: https://www.stevethomason.net/

Drawing Is Seeing with Steve Thomason | Episode 69

Overflow: An Introduction to Growing in Faith (Faith Lead Course)

The Book of Acts: The Ever-Expanding Church (Faith Lead Course)

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In this episode, we explore the intersection of faith and food, featuring the inspiring journey of former pastor and sous chef, Andrew Camp. The podcast highlights how food connects spirituality and community, discussing Andrew's upbringing, culinary education, and integration of faith with his culinary passion. His decision to pursue a career as a sous chef stems from a heartfelt desire to harmonize his faith with his culinary passion, ultimately leading him on a transformative odyssey through culinary school and into the expansive culinary domain. Andrew's culinary expedition mirrors his spiritual journey, emblematic of his creativity, fervor, and the authentic fusion of faith with culinary artistry.

Show Notes:

The Biggest Table (Andrew's Podcast)

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In this episode, I talk to Joshua Gritter, who is the co-lead pastor along with his wife Lara at First Presbyterian Church in Salisbury, NC.  We talk about his article in Presbyterian Outlook “Anxiety, politics, and the lost mysticism of the church,” where he talks about how we Christians in the US have placed their faith in politics and "electing a high priest" instead of in God.

Show Notes:

Joshua's article

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