Church Leadership Archives - Stand Up For The Truth Podcast

What does it mean to be ready to explain your hope in Christ? In this thought-provoking episode, Dave Wager welcomes Joel Settecase of the Think Institute to unpack the biblical foundation of apologetics. With 1 Peter 3:15 as the anchor, the two dive into how believers of all ages—from kids to college grads—can share and defend their faith with boldness, grace, and simplicity. Whether you’re a lifelong Christian who’s never questioned God’s existence or someone who regularly engages skeptics, this conversation offers practical insights on how to communicate truth with confidence.

From explaining the Greek word apologia to navigating the objections of today’s culture, Joel outlines a three-step method rooted in Scripture: ask good questions, expose contradictions, and point people to Christ. Dave brings it home with down-to-earth illustrations (yes, even a pen becomes a teaching tool), reminding listeners that God doesn’t need us—but He wants us. If you’ve ever felt unqualified to talk about your faith, this episode will equip and encourage you to stand up for the truth—wherever God has placed you.

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In this powerful episode of Stand Up for the Truth, host Dave Wager welcomes long-time friends and global missionaries Don Shire and Mike Dawson. The conversation centers around Matthew 24:14 and the call to proclaim the gospel to all nations. Mike shares updates from deep in the Amazon rainforest, where he and his teams are discovering hundreds of previously unreached Yanomami villages—many who have never heard the name of Jesus. He explains how they use solar-powered audio Bibles and gospel films like The Passion of the Christ to reach remote tribes, often traveling for days by boat and foot. Dave reflects on the impact of simply showing up for missionaries in the field and how those personal connections can open doors for the gospel in remarkable ways.

Don shares stories of his trumpet ministry opening unexpected doors in over 38 countries, including recent work with refugees in Ukraine and orphanages in Haiti and India. What started as a music ministry has grown into a global effort to care for widows, orphans, and the unreached—often in dangerous or politically unstable regions. He and Mike both emphasize that God often uses unlikely people in unexpected ways, encouraging listeners to be willing, available, and open to the burdens God places on their hearts. Through faith, obedience, and divine appointments, their ministries continue to grow, serving as a reminder that God’s plans are far greater than our own qualifications or limitations. No video podcast today.

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In this heartfelt NEW episode of Stand Up for the Truth, host Dave Wager reconnects with longtime friend and retired Air Force pilot Eric Demkowicz to explore faith, military service, and the power of intentional community. Eric shares his story of coming to Christ as a child through Awana Clubs and how that early foundation carried him through a lifetime of service, including flying C-5 aircraft around the world. He emphasizes the spiritual challenges that come with military life—frequent moves, isolation, and shifting cultural pressures—and offers practical wisdom for young believers considering military careers. Together, Dave and Eric challenge churches to go beyond polite gratitude and build real relationships with military families, helping them stay grounded in their faith.

Later, the conversation turns personal as Eric reflects on losing both of his parents, facing cancer, and how God used those difficult seasons to deepen his dependence on Christ. He underscores the importance of being rooted in Scripture and surrounded by faithful friends who can remind you of truth when emotions run high. Eric’s stories—from flying into remote parts of the world to simply inviting others into conversation—illustrate how every believer, in any career, can be a light in dark places. It’s a powerful reminder that ministry often starts with one small invitation and that God’s faithfulness is evident even in life’s most turbulent moments.

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Mary welcomes back Flynn Huseby to talk about the ascension of Jesus Christ and the beginnings of the church. Here on the podcast we have paid special attention to the events of Holy Week, the Road to Emmaus, and the beginnings of the church – and the confusion it sent through the believing Jewish religious system/believing community of the day. Speaking of systems, along comes the church and now the disciples are commissioned to make disciples as well. So much going on in this stretch of time, and yet here in the 21st century the church is still going. But what does it look like? What was it supposed to look like? We discuss the main categories in which the church has strayed from the simplicity of following Christ – a community of saints under the headship of the Lord Jesus, serving and lifting one another up, walking each other home. Evangelicalism more and more looks less like the original intent, and the enemy of our souls has been hard at work for centuries making sure that is true. Looking in the mirror as a church is never easy, but Flynn helps us sort a few things out.

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Dr. JB Hixson

Mary welcomes back JB Hixson today to discuss discipleship. What does it mean to disciple, or be discipled? And why didn’t Jesus say, “go and make converts“? Much of the church equates the two but they are not the same concept.  What exactly is a disciple? If we start there, it will be easier to define discipleship; but the general idea at some juncture is about a relationship, and from that comes a life-long process of learning, and growing, and resembling Jesus. Considering the seemingly stunted growth of so many church-goers, we might be able to deduct that in addition to a lack of Bible knowledge, there is little to no discipling going on, and where there is, depth is lacking. What are some of the ways the church can rectify this? How can we be more engaged with one another instead of disengaged? How does it translate into making disciples of all nations?  Converts, yes. Disciples, yes. The church needs to get busy on the Great Commission! A thoughtful hour with JB.

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Mary welcomes Rob Yardley to the podcast, Rob is a true servant in the church with the heart of a pastor and theologian. Rob has served on several boards of note and continues to do so – from Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa to ICR to Thru the Bible with J Vernon McGee. His new role as Executive Director of The Berean Call is one that is dear to his heart because of his friendship with the late Dave Hunt, and of course T.A. McMahon, who has recently retired. When putting godly men like Dave Hunt, TA, Henry Morris, and J Vernon side by side we get a picture of 20th century men that God greatly used. We will look at the legacies of each one, and talk about what it means to be a Berean in 2025. Where are today’s great apologists and theologians? A thoughtful hour with a thoughtful brother.

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In this solo NEW episode of Stand Up for the Truth, guest host Dave Wager turns our focus to the timeless wisdom of Psalm 37. Dave walks through the full chapter, emphasizing five clear alternatives to worry: trust in the Lord, delight in Him, commit your actions to Him, be still in His presence, and turn from anger. Drawing from both Scripture and personal experiences, Dave explains how these practices offer practical hope in a culture plagued with anxiety and fear. Psalm 37 reminds us that fretting over the wicked is as useless as rubbing sandpaper on wood until there’s nothing left—worry only wears us out. God, not our emotions or circumstances, is our fortress in times of trouble.

Dave also reflects on how God’s justice and care contrast with the empty promises of the world. While evil may flourish temporarily, the wicked will fade like grass—but those who know and trust God will endure, and their steps will be guided by Him. Through illustrations ranging from college conversations to a powerful childhood memory of his father standing up to injustice, Dave encourages believers to live lives marked by righteousness, generosity, and peace. If you’re feeling worn down by life’s chaos, this episode invites you to rest in God’s truth, re-frame your focus, and remember who truly holds the future.

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Mike Jewell

Stand Up For The Truth returns today – Host Dave Wager and guest Mike Jewell, founder of Family Connect of Wisconsin. Mike shares his passion for supporting vulnerable children, particularly those in the foster care system or facing neglect. He explains how his organization connects churches, nonprofits, social services, and community members to provide practical and emotional support to families in crisis. The discussion highlights the importance of the Church stepping up to meet these needs, rather than relying solely on government systems.

Mike describes his personal experience as a respite parent, offering temporary care for foster children, and how this work has transformed both the children and his own family. He emphasizes the deep trauma many of these kids have endured, leading to behaviors rooted in fear and uncertainty. Through the Family Connect initiative, churches can step in by providing resources, mentorship, and a sense of belonging to these children and their families. He introduces Care Portal, a tool that connects agencies with churches to fulfill specific needs like providing cribs, food, or other essentials while also fostering relationships that can lead to lasting change.

The conversation challenges churches to be proactive in serving their communities, recognizing that meeting practical needs opens doors for sharing the love of Christ. Dave and Mike discuss the biblical mandate to care for the vulnerable and the opportunity for churches to make a real impact by forming relationships with struggling families. The episode ends with a call to action, encouraging churches to partner with Family Connect and step into the role of being a true refuge for children and families in need.

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In this podcast episode, host Dave Wager and guest Jeremy Lundgren explore the art and importance of studying the scriptures. They begin by reflecting on Malachi 3:1, discussing how a simple English reading of the Bible can be both accessible and profound. They emphasize that while many can understand the Bible at a basic level, deeper insights come from engaging with the text, reflecting on its context, and exploring various translations.

The conversation delves into the differences between Bible translations and paraphrases. Dave shares his experiences with different versions—from the New King James to the ESV and NIV—illustrating that each translation offers unique nuances. Jeremy explains how understanding the original languages and using study tools like Bible handbooks and concordances can help uncover richer meanings, such as the layered interpretation of the word “prepare” in scripture.

Ultimately, both speakers encourage listeners to read the Bible regularly and thoughtfully, regardless of the translation they choose. They highlight that the goal of Bible study isn’t just academic understanding, but forming a personal connection with God’s word—a connection that transforms lives, sharpens our spiritual discernment, and equips us to face life’s challenges with faith.

Ecclesiastes 12:11-14

2 Timothy 2:15-16

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[Original airdate: 2/13/24] Mary Danielsen chats with Carl Kerby about the American Church, in particular when it comes to worldviews. Every human has one, and they largely revolve around such weighty issues as, what is reality? What is a person? What happens when we die? What is the nature of right and wrong? Philosophers have undertaken the answers to those questions for centuries, and its safe to say everyone has grappled with these at some point. But in the church, the notion of “worldview” becomes much more narrow – and looking into the worldview of those who shepherd God’s flock can be, in this age, a bit disappointing. What are the factors that determine a Christian worldview and whether those who lead God’s people get it right, ie, live by every word? Pastors may not be responsible for the sins of a culture, but they do have the responsibility to lead God’s people via truth that is not subjective. Download their free app – click here.

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