What if spiritual growth is more like growing up than leveling up?

In this episode, Pastor Rufus Smith and the Hope Church Memphis team discuss the four phases of spiritual maturity and why every believer starts with the “milk” of simple gospel truths before growing into deeper faith.

Through honest stories about parenting, identity, struggle, and community, the conversation explores how God forms people over time — and why maturity in faith isn’t about perfection, but transformation.

If you’re exploring Christianity, recovering from church hurt, newly following Jesus, or trying to grow spiritually without overcomplicating faith, this episode will meet you where you are.

New episodes weekly from Hope Now, Not Only Weekends — real hope lived out right now.

Rev. Rufus Smith teaches us about honoring our parents and explains that because Americans are living longer, a growing percentage of children are parenting aging parents for an extended time—a unique situation for which the Fifth Commandment offers both a wonderful promise and a caution.Stay connected with Hope Church Memphis:Website • HopeChurchMemphis.comInstagram • @Hope4MemphisTikTok • @Hope4MemphisFacebook • @Hope4MemphisPrayer • HopeChurchMemphis.com/PrayerGiving • HopeChurchMemphis.com/Give

What if church wasn’t what you expected—but exactly what you needed?

In this episode of Hope Now, we talk about building a church for people who don’t trust church, feel disconnected from faith, or aren’t sure they belong.

Through real stories and honest conversation, we explore:

• Why church can feel unfamiliar (and why that’s okay)
• How people find faith in unexpected ways
• What it looks like to come as you are—questions, doubts and all

If you’ve ever said “church isn’t for me”… this episode might change your mind.

Rev. Chad Johnson teaches on I Corinthians 1-6:8. Most people say Jesus is their standard, but live by something else. This message will challenge you to stop mixing standards and start letting His truth shape every part of your life.Stay connected with Hope Church Memphis:Website • HopeChurchMemphis.comInstagram • @Hope4MemphisTikTok • @Hope4MemphisFacebook • @Hope4MemphisPrayer • HopeChurchMemphis.com/PrayerGiving • HopeChurchMemphis.com/Give

What does it mean to be unchurched—and why are so many people walking away from church?

In this episode of Hope Now, Not Only Weekends, we explore the heart behind Hope Church’s mission to be Jesus-centered and unchurched-friendly. From personal stories of church hurt and cultural faith to powerful moments of rediscovery, this conversation unpacks the real reasons people disconnect—and what can help rebuild trust.

We talk about how intentional hospitality, authentic relationships, and clear, accessible teaching can create a space where anyone feels welcome—no matter their background or past experience with church.

Whether you’ve never stepped into a church, walked away years ago, or are just figuring out your faith, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what church can be.

Because hope isn’t just for weekends—it’s for right now.

Topics Covered:

• Dechurched vs. unchurched vs. cultural Christianity
• Church hurt and rebuilding trust
• Creating a “come as you are” environment
• Why language and relatability matter in faith
• The role of community in following Jesus

🔔 Follow for more conversations about real faith in real life.

Rev. Vincent Joplin teaches from I Corinthians 6:1-8. Church conflict isn’t the problem, how we handle it is, and when we choose pride, revenge, or public drama, we damage our witness and reflect the world instead of Christ. This message calls us higher: handle it in the house, choose mercy over being right, and trust God to bring real justice and healing.

Stay connected with Hope Church Memphis:Website • HopeChurchMemphis.comInstagram • @Hope4MemphisTikTok • @Hope4MemphisFacebook • @Hope4MemphisPrayer • HopeChurchMemphis.com/PrayerGiving • HopeChurchMemphis.com/Give

What does it really take to prepare a sermon, and why do some churches use a preaching team instead of one voice?

In this episode of Hope Now, Not Only Weekends, the team at Hope Church Memphis breaks down the heart, process, and purpose behind their preaching model. From 15-hour prep weeks to different teaching styles and real-life application, this conversation reveals how sermons are crafted to connect with people beyond Sunday.

You’ll also hear how shared leadership:

• Creates accountability and support
• Prevents burnout in ministry
• Allows pastors to be present with their families
• Brings diverse voices and experiences to the church

If you’ve ever felt disconnected from church, or just curious how it all works, this episode gives you a real, human look behind the message.

New episodes weekly. Follow and share with someone who needs hope beyond the weekend.

Rev. Rufus Smith continues to teach on human sexuality with grace and truthfulness. The Church is a divine institution created by God the Father to stand in contrast to the world’s system, including how we caringly confront and hold each other accountable.Stay connected with Hope Church Memphis:Website • HopeChurchMemphis.comInstagram • @Hope4MemphisTikTok • @Hope4MemphisFacebook • @Hope4MemphisPrayer • HopeChurchMemphis.com/PrayerGiving • HopeChurchMemphis.com/Give

What does it really take to communicate truth in a way people actually understand?

In this episode of Hope Now, Not Only Weekends, the team from Hope Church Memphis unpacks the purpose and power of a preaching team—and why one voice isn’t enough to reach a diverse church.

Through honest stories, practical insight, and moments of humor, they explore:

• How different perspectives help the message of Scripture connect
• Why illustrations can miss (and how to fix that)
• The role of feedback, humility, and growth in teaching
• What sermon preparation actually looks like behind the scenes
• How community shapes better communication and deeper faith

This conversation is a reminder that faith isn’t one-size-fits-all—and neither is how it’s taught.

Real hope. Right now. Not just weekends.

Rev. Rufus Smith teaches on human sexuality with grace and truthfulness. The presenting issue is sexual immorality, but the primary issue is caring confrontation to redeem the offending party and protect the peace of the church. The word of God will offend someone, but it will also liberate someone.Stay connected with Hope Church Memphis:Website • HopeChurchMemphis.comInstagram • @Hope4MemphisTikTok • @Hope4MemphisFacebook • @Hope4MemphisPrayer • HopeChurchMemphis.com/PrayerGiving • HopeChurchMemphis.com/Give