In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by theologian and author Matthew Bates to discuss the gospel, faith, and allegiance to Jesus as King. Drawing from his book Salvation by Allegiance Alone, Bates challenges common assumptions about "faith alone" and invites Christians to rethink what Scripture teaches about salvation.

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In this deeply moving episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with J. Tom Washburn, preaching minister at the Austin Avenue Church of Christ in Brownwood, Texas, for a powerful conversation about dying well.

Now on hospice, J. Tom shares his personal story of faith in the midst of trial — reflecting on hope, trust in God, and what it means to finish life with confidence in Christ. This episode is not about despair, but about peace, assurance, and the enduring promises of the gospel when life grows fragile. J. Tom's testimony offers encouragement to anyone facing suffering, loss, or uncertainty, reminding us that even at the end of life, faith can shine brightly and point others to Christ.

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In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Chandler Henderson and Chad Thies for a conversation about the unique challenges and blessings of rural ministry. Without formal ministry education or traditional training, both men have stepped into leadership roles simply because they saw a need — and answered God's call.

Chandler and Chad share how everyday Christians can make a powerful impact in small congregations, what ministry looks like in rural communities, and how God equips ordinary people to do extraordinary work. Their story is one of courage, faithfulness, and a deep commitment to growing the church in places often overlooked.

Whether you're part of a small congregation or simply seeking encouragement to serve where you are, this episode will inspire you to say "yes" when God calls.

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In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Dr. Josh Ketchum and his son Austin Ketchum, co-authors of the book At His Table: Weekly Reflections for the Lord's Supper. Together, they explore the heart behind communion and why this weekly practice continues to be central to Christian worship.

Their book offers 53 short reflections designed to help worshippers engage in the Lord's Supper with greater depth, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. As they explain, communion is a sacred tradition handed down from the early church (Acts 20:7), yet it can easily become routine. Their goal is to help Christians approach the table with fresh eyes and a renewed spirit.

Whether you're a church leader looking for communion insights or a believer seeking richer moments at the table, this conversation will encourage you to remember, reflect, and be transformed each week.

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https://a.co/d/5hrnjkx

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In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Clint Davison, Associate Minister at the Linder Road Church of Christ in Meridian, Idaho, to discuss the importance of young adult ministry in today's culture.

Clint has served at Linder Road since 2006 and brings years of experience working with teens and young adults through his preaching, mission efforts, and speaking at retreats, camps, and lectureships across the country. He is a graduate of the Bear Valley Bible Institute and has done mission work in Ukraine and Guatemala.

Clint shares practical insights on helping young adults stay connected to their faith, navigating life transitions, and building stronger bridges between generations within the church.

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#DearChurchPodcast #YoungAdultMinistry #NextGeneration #Discipleship #ChurchGrowth #ChristianLeadership #FaithAfterHighSchool #LinderRoadChurchOfChrist #ChurchCommunity #ChristianPodcas

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Dr. Steve Cloer to discuss the challenges, opportunities, and calling of urban ministry. Dr. Cloer serves as an Associate Professor of Ministry at Harding School of Theology, where he directs the Doctor of Ministry program and the Center for Church and City Engagement. His work focuses on helping congregations understand and participate in God's mission within urban contexts.

Before transitioning to full-time teaching, Steve preached for 15 years at the historic Southside Church of Christ in Fort Worth, living and ministering in the heart of the city. His experience in diverse neighborhoods fuels his passion for racial reconciliation, community presence, and equipping churches to engage the city with wisdom and humility.

This conversation explores what urban ministry looks like, why cities matter for the Kingdom, and how congregations can faithfully serve their communities.

https://www.harding.edu/hst/church-city-engagement/

https://centerforchurchandcity.substack.com

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In Part 2 of this important conversation, Chris McCurley continues his discussion with Chad Garrett, the Connections Minister at Walnut Street Church of Christ in Dickson, Tennessee.

Together, they dive deeper into the topic of transgenderism, addressing how the church can respond biblically and compassionately to issues of gender identity and cultural confusion. This episode explores practical ways to engage others with truth and love, offering clarity from Scripture while reflecting the heart of Christ.

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In this episode of Dear Church, host Chris McCurley sits down with Chad Garrett, the Connections Minister at Walnut Street, to discuss the complex and often emotional topic of transgenderism.

Together they approach the conversation with truth, grace, and compassion, exploring what Scripture says about identity, gender, and the image of God.

This episode encourages Christians to respond with both biblical conviction and Christlike love, seeking to understand how to navigate this issue in today's culture while holding firm to God's design.

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#DearChurchPodcast #SpiritualWarfare #FaithInAction #ChristianLiving #RippleOfLight #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianPodcast #ArmorOfGod #FaithOverFear #SpiritualBattle

In this episode, Chris McCurley sits down with Dr. Kerry Williams, pulpit minister at West Main Church of Christ in Tupelo, Mississippi. Together, they dive into the reality of spiritual warfare — what it is, how it impacts our daily lives, and how Christians can stand firm in faith against the enemy's attacks. Kerry also shares insights from his years of ministry and academic study, drawing from his Ph.D. from Arkansas State University to help believers better understand the unseen battle between good and evil.

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#DearChurchPodcast #SpiritualWarfare #FaithInAction #ChristianLiving #RippleOfLight #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianPodcast #ArmorOfGod #FaithOverFear #SpiritualBattle

In this episode, Chris McCurley talks with Lindsy Bailey, a loving mother and coach in the Lebanon School District (MO), about the powerful journey of adoption. Lindsy shares her personal story of faith, family, and how God's love is beautifully reflected in the adoption process. Together, they discuss the challenges, blessings, and deep spiritual lessons that come from opening your heart and home to a child in need.

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#DearChurchPodcast #Adoption #FaithAndFamily #ChristianParenting #RippleOfLight