Part 1 of a series on starting a Gospel community. In this episode we talk through six simple questions you need to ask yourself before you start gathering people to create a Gospel community. From evaluating your motive to making practical preparations, these questions will help you start well.

Confronting a close friend about how they hurt you can feel overwhelming—but avoiding it can damage the relationship even more. In this episode, we break down practical steps to have an honest conversation, from evaluating your feelings to setting the right tone and inviting real dialogue. Whether you're dealing with a misunderstanding or a deeper issue, we’ll help you navigate tough conversations in a way that strengthens your friendship rather than breaking it.

Ever feel awkward or disconnected at church? In this episode, we dive into practical ways to make genuine friendships at church, even if you’re new or have been attending for a while without connecting. From small group tips to the power of serving, we’ll cover six actionable steps to build meaningful relationships and why it’s essential to take the first step.

Feeling disconnected or craving deeper relationships at church? In this episode, we explore why you need a gospel community and how it differs from just attending a service or Bible study. We'll break down what makes a true gospel community—small, purposeful gatherings focused on growing in Christ and reaching others. Whether you're looking to join or start your own, we share practical steps to find real friendship and live out your faith together.

Is it ever a good idea to stay friends with your ex? In this episode, Ben, Lucas, Nathan, and Jordan dive into this question from a biblical perspective. They explore what it truly means to be friends, the factors to consider—like how the breakup went and the impact on mutual friendships—and whether the desire to stay friends is driven by fear or faith. They also discuss how to navigate forgiveness, boundaries, and emotional health according to scripture. If you’ve ever struggled with the idea of staying friends with your ex, this episode is for you.

Ever feel frustrated or disappointed with your church or ministry’s small group? In this episode Ben and Lucas discuss why this can happen and why it’s important that we go first to make things change.

In Part 3 of the Why Real Friendship? series, Ben and Lucas dive into why friendships can be so difficult and painful. If we were created for relationship, why do friendships so often end in hurt, betrayal, or distance?

The Bible gives a clear answer: sin has broken the way we relate to one another. From Genesis 3 to Cain and Abel, we see how self-focus and pride distort relationships. When we seek love from ourselves or others instead of from God, we end up with frustration, disappointment, and brokenness.

But there is hope! Jesus provides the only lasting foundation for real friendship. By receiving His grace and love, we are freed to give it to others—restoring what sin has damaged.

Struggling in a friendship? Let’s talk about how Jesus changes everything.

In Part 2 of the "Why Real Friendship?" series, Ben and Lucas talk about how we were created for friendship. Starting with the creation story in Genesis, we examine what it means to be made in the image of God and how God designed us for relationship.

Science backs this up too: strong social connections lead to a 50% increased likelihood of survival! Friendships boost our mental and physical health in countless ways.

Isolating yourself goes against God's design for humanity. Ready to learn more about the power of real friendship?

Episode 1 of the Why Real Friendship series. In this episode Ben and Lucas contrast the naturalistic view of why friendship exists with the Biblical narrative’s answer to the same question. Drawing on Jesus’ prayer in John 17, they delve into God’s trinitarian nature, how we’re created in God’s image, and the fact that Jesus was someone who, as God incarnate, still pursued friendship.

We’ve officially completed the first year of Hey Friend. In this episode we recap some highlights from the year, talk about why Hey Friend exists, and give a glimpse of what we’re preparing for 2025.