In this episode, the guys dive into the tension of relationships in ministry—what it looks like to be someone’s friend while also leading them. They talk about having hard conversations, handling correction, and navigating the weight of leadership when it involves people close to you, like friends and family. The conversation also hits on how difficult it can be for leaders to find spaces where they can truly be themselves while balancing roles as a pastor, spouse, parent, and friend. It’s an honest look at the challenge of leading well, loving people well, and staying human in the middle of it all.

In this episode, the guys talk about the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s assassination and how people are reacting—both believers and nonbelievers. Was he all about politics, or something deeper? Are we seeing the start of a revival, or just a moment of emotion? And are we more focused on what’s said about Charlie than what’s said about Jesus?

On this episode of the Miked Up Podcast, the guys dive into the unique challenges of being a multigenerational church. They unpack how different generations approach missions—local versus global priorities, how money should be spent, and what it means to carry the gospel from our neighborhoods to the nations.

The conversation also looks at how the focus of the church has shifted through the years, including the call to get out and do something and the role of small group discipleship. From RAs and GAs to church plants and the cooperative program, the question remains: have older generations lost sight of local missions, and do younger generations fully grasp the impact of foreign missions?

Join in as we explore how Jesus’ command to 11 disciples who changed the world still gives us a blueprint for the church today.

In this thought-provoking episode of Miked Up, Dr. Mike and Coby dive headfirst into one of the most pressing topics of our time: Artificial Intelligence.

They explore:

• The benefits and dangers of AI
• Whether it’s a helpful tool or a subtle deception
• How AI is influencing young culture
• What place—if any—it has in ministry and the church
• And… are Dr. Mike and Coby using AI in their daily workflow?

Oh—and here’s the twist: is this whole episode even real… or was it generated by AI? 🤖

You’ll have to listen to find out!

In this episode of Miked Up, Dr. Mike and Coby dive into the fascinating and complex shifts happening within American Christianity. While the charismatic movement continues to grow at a global pace, another quieter movement is emerging among young evangelical men—a turn toward Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy.

Why are these men leaving evangelical churches in search of liturgy, tradition, and rootedness? What draws others to the emotional and experiential depth of charismatic worship? Are both of these movements—though seemingly opposite—actually rooted in the same spiritual hunger?

Join us as we explore the theological, cultural, and emotional undercurrents behind these growing trends. It’s not just about where people are going—but why.

In this episode of Miked Up, Pastor Mike and Coby dive into the meaning and purpose of Holy Week and what it looks like this year at Central Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Texas.

You’ve heard of Easter, but what about Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday? Are these just traditions from other denominations, or do they hold significance for all believers?

Join the conversation as Pastor Mike and Coby unpack the origins and meaning of these days, why they matter, and how we observe them—not just as a church, but as a way to reflect on the final days of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.

Whether you’re new to Holy Week or grew up hearing about it, this episode is a great way to understand the heart behind it all.

In this episode of Miked Up, Dr. Mike and Coby dive into 2 Corinthians 12, where Paul speaks of the “thorn in the flesh” and how weaknesses can draw us closer to God. They explore how, in church culture, we often focus on our strengths while neglecting to understand the value of struggles. Why does God allow certain challenges to persist? How can these moments keep us tethered to Christ, even in the hardest times?

Dr. Mike and Coby also discuss the importance of casting our cares on the Lord, the role of prayer, and the power of praise—even when the enemy tries to silence it. They highlight the significance of community and the need for trusted people to open up to during difficult seasons. Additionally, they talk about practical spiritual disciplines—such as quiet time, eliminating distractions, and intentional prayer practices—that help Christians navigate through struggles and remain grounded in their faith.

In this episode kicking off the 2025 season, Coby sits down with Dr. Mike to explore practical ways to grow in your spiritual life. They discuss the importance of regularly engaging with God’s Word, offering tips for getting into the Bible for the first time, and using devotionals and Bible apps. The conversation also dives into deepening your prayer life, prioritizing church attendance, and understanding what it truly means to take a Sabbath. Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow further, this episode provides helpful advice for making these practices part of your daily routine.

In this episode, we dive into a thought-provoking question: Does our culture's emphasis on family during Christmas enhance or hinder our worship of God? Join us as we explore differing perspectives on how to approach the season. Our senior pastor highlights the importance of spending Christmas with family, while I advocate for prioritizing time with our church family, with whom we share our spiritual journey. Together, we wrestle with what it means to keep Christ at the center of the celebration.

In this special episode of the Miked Up podcast, Dr. Mike and Coby tackle the complex topic of Halloween and its place in Christian life. Is it an evil pagan holiday, or just a cultural tradition? Should Christian parents let their kids trick-or-treat, is a fall fest at church a good idea? Beyond Halloween, they explore how Christians should approach other worldly activities that may conflict with faith. From holidays to everyday practices, they offer insights on maintaining a biblical perspective in a secular world. Tune in as they break down the balance between faith and cultural engagement.