Immanuel Schools: Made For More

In part two of this conversation, Dr. Roger Erdvig and Dr. Maggie Pope continue exploring how we can help our children grow in resilience and faith. They dig deeper into practical ways we can guide our kids through processing experiences, practicing reflection, cultivating curiosity, and learning from mentors. Along the way, they emphasize the importance of empathy, intentional conversations, and the everyday opportunities that shape both worldview and spiritual formation.

Together, these insights remind us that resilience doesn’t develop overnight- it’s nurtured over time through consistent modeling and intentional guidance. By creating space for growth and leaning on the support of community, we can help our children build a faith and worldview that will carry them into the future with confidence and hope.

Discussion Guide Link

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1uURA6SQifzQhoqOgmfVMWpAnds3f5o00?usp=drive_link

Recommended Resources

Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids 

By: Kara E. Powell, Chap Clark

It’s almost time for school to start again! In this episode of Made For More, Ryan Wood, Superintendent of Immanuel Schools, gives us a sneak peek at the theme for the 2025–2026 school year.

To build on that, Dr. Roger Erdvig sits down with Sarah Enterline to explore one of the biggest questions we face: Can we trust the Bible? Together, they walk through the evidence for Scripture’s reliability—from archaeology and manuscript discoveries to prophecy and even science. Sarah also shares practical ways parents can help their kids build a strong, confident faith in a world full of questions and doubts.

We believe this is a helpful, hope-filled conversation for any parent wanting to lay a solid biblical foundation at home.

Recommended Resources

A Visual Guide to Biblical Apologetics by Joseph M. Holden and Sarah R. Enterline

Recommended Age: Teens and adultsA clear, easy-to-understand guide that uses charts and visuals to explore the evidence for the Bible’s reliability. Covers topics like archaeology, prophecy, and science in a way that's engaging for visual learners and helpful for parents, teachers, or students.

The Greatness of God (What Is God Like? #10) by William Lane Craig

Recommended Age: Ages 4–8Part of a beautifully illustrated series that helps young children understand big theological truths. This volume focuses on God's greatness and makes deep ideas accessible for little minds through storytelling and pictures.

Cold-Case Christianity for Kids by J. Warner Wallace

Recommended Age: Ages 8–12Written by a real-life detective, this book invites kids to explore the evidence for Jesus through a fun, mystery-style investigation. Great for encouraging logical thinking and building a confident foundation for faith at a young age.

The Case for Christ (2017 Film)

Recommended Age: Teens and adults (Rated PG)Based on the true story of journalist Lee Strobel, this movie follows his investigation into the claims of Christianity. A compelling introduction to apologetics for teens and parents alike.

In this two-part episode of the Made for More podcast, Dr. Roger Erdvig and Dr. Maggie Pope explore how parents can come alongside their children to cultivate a strong, lasting, and resilient faith. They examine the deep connection between a child’s faith and worldview, showing how this development requires intentional guidance not only from parents but also from the broader community that surrounds and supports our kids.

Across both episodes, you'll hear a blend of big-picture insights and practical tools you can apply in your everyday life. And as a reminder, this journey is about progress, not perfection. Even when our plans don’t unfold the way we expect, the Holy Spirit is at work through our faithful efforts for the good of our children.

Recommended Resources

Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids 

By: Kara E. Powell, Chap Clark

In this episode of Made for More, Dr. Roger Erdvig and Dr. Maggie Pope are joined by Dr. Jeff Myers, president of Summit Ministries, to talk about how parents can faithfully navigate the cultural messages surrounding gender identity—especially during Pride Month. Together, they offer practical strategies rooted in a biblical worldview to help children of all ages understand their identity in Christ and who they were made to be in God’s image. Whether you're raising toddlers or teens, we believe this conversation will equip you to engage with your children about these difficult cultural issues.

Later this year, Dr. Jeff Myers will be releasing a new book on this topic, co-authored with Dr. Kathy Koch. It’s a great resource for Immanuel parents who are looking for solid, biblically grounded guidance—it’s definitely one to watch for.

Recommended Resources

Understanding Gender Ideology & Transgenderism https://www.summit.org/resources/articles/understanding-gender-ideology-transgenderism/

Articles on a Variety of Topics Related to Transgenderism - Focus on the Family

https://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/transgender-resources/

Understanding the Gender Revolution: Christianity and the Transgender Movement - Sean McDowell

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_aCWlvISzA

Love Thy Body - By Nancy Pearcy

https://store.summit.org/Love-Thy-Body

Strange New World - By Carl Trueman

https://www.amazon.com/Strange-New-World-Activists-Revolution/dp/1433579308/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3B8HG90G1GP1A&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.U0inVdFoqzWh2_7QELy4351PRGyKxsFl3EtDNz_3-ARB-e9vtTgmNk1Ml80YbegIbGmUgV9x-sBuyZDsZ-q03lg49OJ40M-mV9FvDNZGyW4R9erPyivwEvo5I3v5nAmIujLukqANJcHoKcuDUzZsAraU8lCwEHOg-HXU5C4v3nXXgFO5X9f1TU5Gu2hUlJO45veUM23jnQob8Kxo6l4e7rnQwd7p6wZeqiMaTPY9IA8.s5phzwo306TQlFFl1n8MjJVJXORKUGqS03W0OC2v6P8&dib_tag=se&keywords=strange+new+world+carl+trueman&qid=1747683652&sprefix=strange+new+world%2Caps%2C107&sr=8-1

In this episode of Made For More, Dr. Roger Erdvig and Dr. Maggie Pope is joined by Arlene Pellicane—speaker, host of the Happy Home podcast, and author of several books, including Screen Kids (co-authored with Dr. Gary Chapman). Arlene brings valuable insight into managing screen time for children in today’s technology-saturated world, shedding light on the common challenges parents face as they help their kids develop a healthy relationship with technology.

You'll walk away with practical strategies for creating a balanced family tech plan—and maybe even feel inspired to take a closer look at your own habits. We believe this episode will be powerful, helpful, and maybe even a little convicting—but the benefits will be well worth the effort.

Arlene’s Recommended Resources

Screen Kids: 5 Relational Skills Every Child Needs in a Tech-Driven World

By: Dr. Gary Chapman and Arlene Pellicane 

The Happy Home Podcast - Hosted by Arlene 

Arlene’s Website: arlenepelicane.com

Screen Kids Course: https://www.happyhomeuniversity.com/course

In this episode of the Made for More Podcast, Dr. Roger Erdvig and Dr. Maggie Pope are joined by Ryan Wood, Superintendent of Immanuel Schools, to discuss the different stages of parenting and the importance of adapting parenting styles as children grow. They explore the value of allowing children to experience failure as a learning opportunity, the ethos of Christian parenting, and the impact of being engaged in a church community. Ryan shares incredible wisdom from his own experiences as a parent that is sure to bless and encourage you—no matter what stage of parenting you are in.

Ryan’s Points:

1. Talk at the dinner table.

2. Do not overcommit your time outside of the home. 

3. Make church involvement a priority. 

4. Focus on modeling healthy relationships to your kids. 

5. Wherever you are, have conversations. 

6. You have to slow down- live a slower pace of life. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Parenting Stages

03:17 Navigating the Stages of Parenting

11:10 The Importance of Allowing Failure

15:46 The Purpose of Christian Parenting

19:26 Involvement in Church and Community

22:11 Supporting Each Other as Parents

28:25 Final Thoughts on Parenting

In this episode, Roger Erdvig and Keith McCurdy dive into what it means to raise sturdy kids—children who are emotionally strong and equipped to handle life’s challenges. They explore the value of struggle in parenting, the ultimate goal of maturity, and practical ways to cultivate a strong family identity. The conversation also examines the influence of technology and extracurricular activities on child development, emphasizing the critical role parents play as gatekeepers in their children's lives. We hope this conversation encourages and equips you on your parenting journey, reminding you that your children are Made For More.

Chapters:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Raising Sturdy Kids

01:01 The Concept of Sturdy Kids

05:33 The Role of Parents in Preparing Kids

06:57 Historical Perspectives on Parenting

10:18 The Impact of Humanism on Parenting

15:04 The Importance of Struggle in Growth

22:45 Practical Steps for Parents

23:13 Establishing Family Identity

26:02 Encouraging Responsibility in Children

31:23 Navigating Technology and Extracurriculars

Recommended Resource:

Keith’s 4 Points

#1 - Establish A Strong Family Identity

#2 - Do Less For Your Kids And Require More From Your Kids - "Ownership of Responsibility before Freedom and Privilege"

#3 - Use The Principle Of Cause And Effect As A Basic Learning Tool

#4 - Work Hard To Limit The Key Interrupters To Healthy Growth In Children- Technology and Extracurriculars

How do the relationships in your child’s life shape their worldview? This month on the Made for More Parenting podcast, Dr. Roger Erdvig and Dr. Maggie Pope dive into the parent-child bond, peer friendships, and dating relationships—sharing biblical wisdom and practical tips to help you guide your child with confidence.

* Balance parenting with authority

* Navigate friendships wisely and intentionally

* Approach dating with a biblical perspective

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Relationships in Worldview Formation

02:23 Biblical Foundations for Parent-Child Relationships

05:19 The Role of Authority in Parenting

08:18 Research Insights on Parenting and Relationships

11:00 Cultivating Healthy Parenting Dynamics

18:26 Building Biblical Friendships

26:54 Navigating Relationships with the Opposite Sex

34:17 Guidelines for Dating and Relationships

42:11 Building Community and Support for Parents

Maggie's ABC's

A - Attraction
What qualities in this person draw you to them? What makes them stand out to you?

B - Benchmark (Brian)
How do the qualities of this person compare to the qualities in mom or dad or older Christian role models you deeply respect?

C - Christian Testimony
How clearly does their life reflect a relationship with the Lord? Are they committed to attending and engaging with a church community?

D - Disposition
What character traits stand out in how they interact with friends, family, and adults? How do they handle challenges or conflicts?

E - Enthusiasm
What excites this person the most? Do their passions align with God’s kingdom and the values of a strong partnership?

F - Family
How do their family values and dynamics compare to yours? Are there similarities, strengths, or concerns worth noting?

G - Growth
What areas of personal, spiritual, or emotional growth is this person actively pursuing?

Recommended Resources

Simple Tips for Growing Closer to Your Kids (Article - Focus on the Family)

https://www.focusonthefamily.com/episodes/broadcast/simple-tips-for-growing-closer-to-your-kids/

Build a Great Relationship with Your Child (Article - Focus on the Family)

https://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/build-relationship-with-your-child/

Understanding Teen Dating: Should My Teen Date? (Article - Focus on the Family)

https://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/understanding-teen-dating-should-my-teen-date/

Made for Friendship: The Relationship that Halves Our Sorrows and Doubles our Joy, by Drew Hunter (book)

https://www.crossway.org/books/made-for-friendship-tpb/

Shepherding a Child's Heart, By Paul Tripp (book)

https://www.amazon.com/Shepherding-Childs-Heart-Tedd-Tripp/dp/0966378601/ref=asc_df_0966378601?mcid=53d0497cff7031cc9d84309c53d59fe9&hvocijid=4432665907372102503-0966378601-&hvexpln=73&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=692875362841&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4432665907372102503&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9007356&hvtargid=pla-2281435177138&psc=1

This month, special guest Rodney Knox joined Roger and Maggie to discuss the significance of establishing core values within families. They explore practical steps for creating a family mission statement, the role of daily practices in reinforcing values, and the necessity of open dialogue among family members. The discussion also highlights the impact of grandparents and the importance of allowing children to learn from their failures while providing love and support. 

Recommended Resource:

Download your free Core Family Values Guide:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/11McPDGURPZhQvipKsBRHp85zpQzIXr4E/view?usp=sharing

Chapters:

00:00 Setting Intentions for Family Goals

07:47 Establishing Core Values in Family Life

15:52 Intentional Parenting and Communication

23:25 Building Open Communication Channels

24:21 Opening Lines of Communication

25:15 Establishing Family Pillars

27:07 Creating a Family Mission Statement

28:06 Seven Steps to Family Meetings

39:04 Embracing Failure and Learning

42:21 The Process of Establishing Core Values

In this episode of the Made For More Podcast, your host's Dr. Roger Erdvig and Dr. Maggie Pope discuss how to reclaim parenting during the Christmas season. They discuss the importance of worldview formation in children and how us as parents can use the busy Christmas season to grow our children's worldviews. The conversation revolves around Psalm 139 as a guiding scripture, exploring the dimensions of heart, head, and habits in shaping a child's worldview. Lastly, they provide practical steps for evaluating your family's traditions and habits during the holiday season to encouraging intentionality in parenting.

Chapters

00:00 Reclaiming Parenting During Christmas

01:29 Understanding Worldview Formation

04:14 The Dimensions of Worldview: Heart, Head, and Habits

14:49 Evaluating Christmas Habits for Worldview Formation

29:36 Practical Steps for Intentional Parenting

31:50 Looking Ahead: Establishing Family Values

Recommended Resource

https://www.summit.org/promotions/advent/what-time-is-it-introduction-to-advent-part-1-4/