In this episode of HC Conversations, we dive deep into the opening chapters of the Bible to move beyond the typical "science vs. faith" debates. While Christians often hold different views on the "how" and "when" of creation—ranging from Young Earth Creationism to Old Earth and Theistic Evolution—we explore why the most important foundation remains: "In the beginning, God".We unpack the fascinating "Home vs. House" analogy, looking at how the original Hebrew audience understood creation as a functional space rather than just a physical construction. We also discuss:- Creation as a Cosmic Temple: Why God "resting" on the seventh day isn't about Him being tired, but about Him taking up residence to rule. - The Image of God: What it means for humanity to be the "living idols" representing God's authority on earth .- Order from Chaos: How God takes the tohu vavohu (chaos) and brings order and beauty into our lives today .- The Problem of Modern Idols: Why we often find ourselves worshiping created things rather than the Creator .Whether you are a skeptic, a science enthusiast, or a long-time believer, this conversation will help you see the creation story with fresh eyes and a heart of worship.At Hope Community, our mission is to make disciples who are transformed by truth, sent on mission, and live in unity. This podcast is one way we help you live that out in everyday life.Connect With Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HCMinervaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hcminerva/Website: https://www.HCMinerva.Church

Phil and Paul kick off 2026 by reflecting on a powerful year at Hope Community—and by laying out a bold vision for the year ahead: walking through the entire story of Scripture together.

Starting with Jesus’ words on the Emmaus Road in Luke 24, this conversation explores why the Bible is not a collection of disconnected verses but one unified story that leads to Jesus. Along the way, they address a growing cultural trend of using Jesus out of context to support modern political, moral, and ideological agendas.

From red-letter Christianity to socialism, self-defense, sexuality, and the identity of Jesus Himself, this episode will challenge you to read the Bible as Jesus intended—and to see the world through the story of Scripture instead of letting culture redefine Him.

In this episode of HC Conversations, Phil and Paul unpack Zechariah’s prophetic song from Luke 1 and explore how deeply the Christmas story is rooted in the Old Testament story of Israel.From the promises made to Abraham and David, to the role of John the Baptist, to what it really means for Jesus to rescue us from our enemies, this conversation shows why we can’t fully understand Jesus apart from Israel’s story. Along the way, the guys also address common misunderstandings about Israel, the church, and modern political narratives—and why followers of Jesus must read Scripture carefully and faithfully.This episode invites listeners to slow down, open their Bibles, and see Christmas as the fulfillment of God’s long-promised rescue plan.At Hope Community, our mission is to make disciples who are transformed by truth, sent on mission, and live in unity. This podcast is one way we help you live that out in everyday life.Connect With Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HCMinervaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hcminerva/Website: https://www.HCMinerva.Church

Welcome back to the HC Conversations podcast! In week two of our Advent series, Paul and Phil dive deep into Mary's Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55). We tackle two critical misconceptions often read into this powerful prophecy: 1. The Status of Mary: Why the doctrine of the Immaculate Conception is an accretion that hides the beautiful truth of Mary's humanity and inspiring faith. 2. The Justice of God: We caution against hijacking the verses about the rich and the humble for modern political frameworks, reminding us that the focus is entirely on God's faithful activity in establishing His upside-down Kingdom. Learn what Mary's powerful song truly means for your discipleship journey.At Hope Community, our mission is to make disciples who are transformed by truth, sent on mission, and live in unity. This podcast is one way we help you live that out in everyday life.Connect With Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HCMinervaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hcminerva/Website: https://www.HCMinerva.Church

In this episode, Phil and Paul kick off our Advent series O Come, O Come Emmanuel by exploring the deep hope of Israel in the days of exile. From the destruction of the temple to the long silence before Jesus’ birth, we look at how God’s people learned to wait, trust, and remain faithful even when everything around them seemed hopeless. Their story helps us understand our own seasons of waiting—how to repent, remember God’s faithfulness, and stay rooted in community as we look for Christ to come again.At Hope Community, our mission is to make disciples who are transformed by truth, sent on mission, and live in unity. This podcast is one way we help you live that out in everyday life.Connect With Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HCMinervaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hcminerva/Website: https://www.HCMinerva.Church

What did the Nicene Creed mean when it declared “one holy, catholic, and apostolic Church” and “one baptism for the forgiveness of sins”? In this episode, Phil and Paul explore how we understand the Church, baptism, discipleship, and Christian community and why these convictions matter for believers.We talk about common misconceptions, how American individualism has shaped our view of church and baptism, and what it looks like to embrace a historic and embodied faith. Whether you’re curious about Christian theology, the Creed, church history, or what it really means to follow Jesus, this conversation will challenge and encourage you.At Hope Community, our mission is to make disciples who are transformed by truth, sent on mission, and live in unity. This podcast is one way we help you live that out in everyday life.Connect With Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HCMinervaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hcminerva/Website: https://www.HCMinerva.Church

Join Paul and Phil for this episode of the HC Conversations podcast as they dive into a conversation about the Holy Spirit. How should we understand the gifts of the Spirit? How has the Spirit worked in different revival movements in history? Are we experiencing revival right now and what challenges await us?At Hope Community, our mission is to make disciples who are transformed by truth, sent on mission, and live in unity. This podcast is one way we help you live that out in everyday life.Connect With Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HCMinervaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hcminerva/Website: https://www.HCMinerva.Church

Join Paul and Phil in this engaging episode of the HC Conversations podcast as they dive deeper into the transformative truths of the Nicene Creed, focusing on the powerful themes of Jesus' resurrection, ascension, and promised return. Discover what Jesus is doing right now and how His reign impacts our lives today. Explore the significance of the Holy Spirit's presence and how it empowers us to live out our faith in a world that often feels chaotic.This conversation is packed with insights to inspire and challenge you on your discipleship journey. Don't miss out on this opportunity to deepen your understanding and strengthen your faith.At Hope Community, our mission is to make disciples who are transformed by truth, sent on mission, and live in unity. This podcast is one way we help you live that out in everyday life.Connect With Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HCMinervaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hcminerva/Website: https://www.HCMinerva.Church

Join Phil and Paul on this episode of HC Conversations as they dive deep into the Nicene Creed, exploring what it really means to believe in “one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen."We unpack:- The biblical truth of monotheism and the reality of spiritual powers- Why believing in one God confronts culture and idols- How Christians are called to live boldly, loving others while advocating for the gospel- Understanding God as the source of all good and the author of our story- Why trusting God’s perspective is more life-giving than relying on selfThis episode will challenge you to live your faith with conviction, compassion, and clarity, knowing that the God you follow is Lord of all.At Hope Community, our mission is to make disciples who are transformed by truth, sent on mission, and live in unity. This podcast is one way we help you live that out in everyday life.Connect With Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HCMinervaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hcminerva/Website: https://www.HCMinerva.Church

In this episode of HC Conversations, Phil and Paul unpack the story behind the Nicene Creed and the Council of Nicaea. They explore what was actually decided there, the myths about Constantine’s role, and why the early church needed to clarify who Jesus is. Part of our Creed series diving into the foundations of Christian belief.