OCF Crosspoint Podcast

Welcome to Crosspoint Highlights: Big ideas. Short episodes. For your busy schedule.

Guest: Col Chet Arnold, USMC (Ret.)

From Episode 46: "May a Christian Serve in the Military?" Listen to the full episode here.

Highlight Summary:

Can a Christian serve in the military and still follow Jesus' command to love their enemies? In this Crosspoint Highlight, Col Chet Arnold, USMC (Ret.), tackles the difficult topic of killing in combat from a Biblical perspective. Drawing from both the Old and New Testaments, Chet explains why understanding the sanctity of life and the God-given authority of government is essential for military believers. He also challenges listeners to avoid dehumanizing their enemies and to grieve the loss of life—even in war—through the lens of being made in God's image.

Be sure to check out our article by the same name, "May A Christian Serve in the Military?"

Key Takeaways:

• The sanctity of life is foundational: All people are made in God's image—even those considered enemies.
• God delegates authority to governments: Genesis 9 establishes the basis for protection and justice, even when that includes the use of force.
• Jesus' command to turn the other cheek applies to personal offense, not to military or governmental responsibility (Matthew 5:39).
• Dehumanizing the enemy leads to spiritual and emotional damage: Christians are called to mourn every life lost, even in war.
• Grieving rightly matters: Proper understanding of life's value can reduce the impact of trauma and moral injury after combat.

Mentioned Bible Verses:

• Genesis 1 – Humans are created in the image of God.
• Genesis 9 – God delegates to human government the authority to take life in matters of justice.
• Matthew 5:39 – "Do not resist the one who is evil… turn to him the other [cheek] also."

Quick links:

• Summer R&R 1 at White Sulphur Springs
• All Summer R&R sessions at WSS
• All Summer Celebrations at Spring Canyon
• The Starting Point Project website

Episode summary:

In this bonus episode, Jay Seegert, managing director of the Starting Point Project, shares his journey from a Christian upbringing to becoming a prominent speaker on defending the Christian worldview. He discusses the importance of understanding the differences between a biblical and a Christian worldview, emphasizing the need for clarity in definitions to engage in meaningful discussions.

Jay also highlights the challenges of defending faith in a secular environment and the significance of grounding beliefs in Scripture rather than external influences. In this conversation, Jay and Crosspoint host Josh Jackson explore the relationship between science and the Christian worldview, addressing skepticism, the purpose of defending faith, and the importance of gentleness in apologetics. They emphasize that understanding Scripture does not require extensive scientific knowledge and that foundational questions about God's existence and the Bible's inspiration are crucial for Christians.

The discussion highlights the need for respectful dialogue and the power of God's Word in addressing doubts and skepticism. There's also discussion on the intersection of science, faith, and the interpretation of Biblical texts regarding the age of the Earth, the concept of death, and the existence of dinosaurs. Jay emphasizes the importance of understanding one's beliefs and the implications of those beliefs on one's worldview.

Listeners also will hear more about the Starting Point Project, which aims to help individuals explore their foundational beliefs and engage in meaningful conversations about faith and science.

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Staff changes across the OCF team: Visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about vacant positions as a result of OCF's ongoing job moves. https://www.ocfusa.org/job-openings/

• Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/

• Take the next step in growing as a Local Leader: Visit springcanyon.org/3b to learn more about the upcoming OCF LEAD! Local Ministry Leadership Track at Spring Canyon this June.

ASK OCF

Landon Spaulding, who now serves as OCF's Online Training Development Coordinator, shares his experience as a SkillBridge intern with OCF.

To learn more about SkillBridge opportunities, read our latest article or visit ocfusa.org/skillbridge. https://www.ocfusa.org/2025/03/serving-beyond-the-uniform-ocfs-skillbridge-internships/ https://www.ocfusa.org/skillbridge/

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today's guest spotlight features an excerpt of a conversation with Jay Seegert about defending the Christian worldview. Author, international speaker, and managing director of The Starting Point Project, Jay holds degrees in both Physics and Engineering Technology and has been lecturing on the authority of Scripture for the last 40 years. https://www.thestartingpointproject.com/

He explains what it means to defend the Christian worldview, the significance of addressing the existential questions, and how the Bible ought to be our key source for these conversations. Jay also shares what our motive should be when engaging in discussions with those who hold other worldviews.

Interested in hearing more from Jay about similar topics discussed in today's episode? Stay tuned for the full, bonus episode coming this month, and consider attending the first week (6-13 June) of White Sulphur Springs' Summer R&R program as Jay will lead speaker sessions related to his topic: "Defending the Christian Worldview." https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/summer-rnr-1/

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Jay, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. In your own words, why is it important to be able to defend your Christian worldview?

1. When speaking with individuals of other worldviews, how do you ensure you care more about the individual with a need for the gospel than you do about winning the argument?

1. What topics have you been faced with during worldview-oriented conversations that you'd like to study further?

1. Jay mentioned 1 Peter 3:15. What other relevant verses come to mind when thinking about how to discuss worldviews?

This month's special episode enables you to listen to the Global Town Hall, which OCF hosted on 8 February at its Home Office in Colorado Springs, Colo., and over Zoom for members around the world.

You'll hear from OCF Council President Dale Holland, OCF CEO/Executive Director Scott Fisher, Director of Field Operations Colin Wooten, Local Leaders Josh and Lindsey Bowen, USMA OCF Field Staff Bob Phillips, and OCF Conference Center Directors Paul Robyn and Kim Hawthorne. After the ministry updates from these individuals, attending members asked a variety of questions of the staff present.

If you'd prefer to watch the video of GTH 2025 and/or provide follow-up questions, comments, or feedback, visit ocfusa.org/gth2025.

Here are the links for some of the resources mentioned in this episode:

• Local fellowships https://www.ocfusa.org/directory/

• OCF Conference Centers https://www.ocfusa.org/experience/

• ROTC ministry https://www.ocfusa.org/rotc/

• OCF LEAD! Local Ministry Leadership Track (during Spring Canyon's Summer Celebration #3) https://www.springcanyon.org/event/summer-celebration-3b/

• Fellowship of Christian Military Ministries Annual Conference (21-24 March) https://militarybeliever.com/fcmm-conference/

• OCF Handbook https://www.ocfusa.org/handbook/

• Mentoring opportunities https://www.ocfusa.org/mentoring/

• OCF's Annual Priorities: What you need to know and how you can get involved https://www.ocfusa.org/2023/03/ocfs-annual-priorities-what-you-need-to-know-and-how-you-can-get-involved/

Interested in sharing your own story on a future Crosspoint episode? Complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to these ministry updates and Q&A session, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How have you seen God work through OCF in your own life?

1. What can OCF do to serve you better? (And visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to let us know!)

1. What obstacles—whether personal, logistical, or financial—have kept you from engaging more deeply with Christian community and discipleship opportunities?

1. As you listen to this recording, what might the Lord be putting on your heart to do to engage with military ministry in a new way?

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Watch the latest OCF Global Town Hall: Visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to watch the Town Hall. https://www.ocfusa.org/gth2025/

• Serve and adventure at an OCF Conference Center this spring: Make this March a meaningful mix of service, growth, and adventure through one of these two opportunities.

• Spring Break Service Project Week, 10-16 March, White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.) https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/sbsp-week/

• Spring Break Service and Adventure Week, 21-30 March, Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) https://www.springcanyon.org/event/spring-break-service-and-adventure-week-2/

• Support OCF during your trips to the grocery store: Visit our Ways to Give page and scroll to the bottom to see if a store near you is eligible for the Community Rewards Program. https://www.ocfusa.org/donate/

ASK OCF

Col Houstoun Waring, USAF (Ret.), who serves as OCF's Central Regional Coordinator, answered this frequently asked question from another OCFer: Why did OCF develop a Handbook? Who should use it? How should people use it?

To learn more about this impactful resource for military ministry, read the article about the Handbook's background. https://www.ocfusa.org/2022/09/introducing-the-newest-tool-for-military-ministry-the-ocf-handbook/

Visit our website to access the online version of the OCF Handbook. https://www.ocfusa.org/handbook/

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future "Ask OCF" segment, send an email to [email protected].

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

This month's episode features not one but two guests: Lt Col Scott and Lisa Bedrosian, USAF (Ret.). The Bedrosians have been longtime supporters of White Sulphur Springs, OCF's eastern Conference Center located in Manns Choice, Pa. Having had roles there as guests, staff, and volunteers over the years, Scott and Lisa recount some of their cherished memories made at WSS and share how God has used this special home away from home in their lives. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/

The Bedrosians describe how WSS helped them navigate the challenges of military life through mentorship, Biblical teachings, and a sense of belonging. They share influential anecdotes, like being reminded of their identity as missionaries in uniform, keeping symbolic "rocks" with spiritual truths, and renaming chores "blessings" because of a simple spatula on a dining room table at WSS. Knowing the conference center's spiritually rich and personally challenging programs might be intimidating to some, they also answer the frequently asked question: "But will I have fun?"

Interested in having your own impactful experience at a Conference Center? Visit ocfusa.org/experience to learn more about White Sulphur Springs and its sister center Spring Canyon, located in Buena Vista, Colo. https://www.ocfusa.org/experience/

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Scott and Lisa, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. When was a time you were able to truly step away from your daily rhythms to rest and spend time with the Lord?

1. How did that experience affect your day-to-day life?

1. The Bedrosians share a few examples of life-changing advice through connections made at WSS. What impactful advice have you received, and have you shared it with others?

1. Scott calls a stay at WSS an "investment in your family and in your ministry." What might be the difference that makes your average vacation that kind of investment instead?

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• OCF Global Town Hall: Visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to learn more about and register for the next iteration of this annual, virtual event, scheduled for 8 February.
• Regional ROTC retreats: Visit ocfusa.org/rotc to find the next regional ROTC retreat near you.
• Annual impact report: To hear more about Freddy's OCF experience and other stories of impact from our conference centers, field locations, and more, download our Annual Impact Report by visiting ocfusa.org/air2024.
• Mentoring opportunities: If you're interested in mentoring or being trained in mentoring and want to learn more, visit ocfusa.org/mentoring or contact Bill Rue via [email protected].

ASK OCF

LT Will Parker, USN, who serves as the OCF Submarine Community Coordinator, answered this frequently asked question from another OCFer: How do you balance/integrate OCF involvement with commitment to the local church?

To learn more about church-OCF dynamics and ways you can integrate your involvement in both, visit ocfusa.org/handbook/chapter-22.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future "Ask OCF" segment, send an email to [email protected].

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

This month's episode puts the guest spotlight on CAPT Terry Wichert, USN (Ret.). Having served in the U.S. Navy for 30+ years, he now serves as the executive director for Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching and Services (ACCTS), a sister ministry of OCF.

Through personal experiences and some of the 650+ recorded prayers in the Bible, such as those in the books of Nehemiah and Daniel, Terry unpacks the power of persevering prayer. He explains what prayer is and what it isn't, gives some ideas for developing a prayer life, and viewing prayer as a way to have a relationship with our Lord and align our hearts with His.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected].

POINTS TO PONDER

1. As you listen to this conversation with Terry, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:
2. Terry reminds us that God "loves for us to pray" and "hears our prayer." How do these reminders affect your view of prayer?
3. To pose the question Terry says he often asks other believers: Are you satisfied with your prayer life? Why or why not?
4. Terry mentions a monthly habit of spending an entire day in prayer before the Lord. What habits might benefit you in your prayer life?
5. When was a time you prayed often about a certain topic but ultimately the Lord orchestrated circumstances that differed from your prayers? How did you respond? How did that experience grow you in your faith in Him?

Show Notes

In this bonus episode, Josh, Beth, and Corrie explore the challenges of bitterness and resentment in military marriages, highlighting the influence of faith, perspective shifts, and community support. They discuss the importance of diverse friendships, flexibility in family life, and seeking counseling. Emphasizing teamwork, Beth and Corrie share strategies for balancing responsibilities and overcoming feelings of isolation and resentment.

Beth introduces insights from her new book for military spouses called "Another Move, God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife," while Corrie shares about her dynamic Instagram platform, @ajoyfulmilspouse, that celebrates military life. Together, they stress that community and shared experiences can strengthen relationships amid military life's unique challenges.

In the course of this conversation, we also reference Beth's list of 10 ways to overcome bitterness and resentment, which you can view here.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected]. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

Takeaways

• The person most affected by bitterness is often the one holding onto it.
• Military spouses often feel bitterness due to the challenges of military life.
• Community support is crucial for military spouses to overcome feelings of isolation.
• Engaging in activities outside of the marriage can help alleviate pressure on the spouse.
• Maintaining connections with friends, even if they are far away, is important.
• Perspective shifts can help in dealing with feelings of loss and resentment.
• Faith and reliance on God can transform bitterness into growth.
• Assuming the best in your spouse fosters a healthier relationship.
• God has a purpose for every assignment in life.

Points to Ponder

As you listen to this conversation with Beth and Corrie, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How does unresolved bitterness affect not only the individual experiencing it but also their relationships with family, friends, and community members? How can someone recognize when bitterness is taking a toll on their life and relationships?
2. In what ways can military spouses balance the demands of military life with self-care and maintaining friendships, even with distance involved? How might maintaining these connections positively impact their mental health and family life?
3. How can a change in perspective help military spouses navigate feelings of loss, resentment, or inequality in responsibilities? What strategies can help shift perspective from bitterness to personal growth?
4. Why is community support so crucial for military families, and what are some effective ways to build a support network? How can this support network contribute to overcoming isolation and fostering resilience?

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• New Bible study available: Visit ocfusa.org/suffering to access this newest study, A Faithful Approach to Hardship and Suffering, on our website.

• GivingTuesday fundraiser: Give the gift of Christlike leadership this GivingTuesday (3 Dec.) by visiting ocfusa.org/givingtuesday and donating now.

• Job opening at WSS: If you would like more information and/or an application for this ministry opportunity, contact the WSS Center Director Paul Robyn ([email protected]) or the WSS Director of Hospitality Susanne Pappal ([email protected]), or call the main office via 814-623-5583. Visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about or to apply for the new facilities director position at White Sulphur Springs in Pennsylvania.

• Winter Retreats at OCF Conference Centers: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat to register for one of White Sulphur Springs' Winter Retreat sessions, or visit springcanyon.org/winter-retreat to register for one of Spring Canyon's Winter Retreat sessions.

• Ministry update from MMI OCF: Visit ocfusa.org/directory to learn more about and connect with local fellowships like the one at MMI in Alabama.

ASK OCF

Lt Col Larry Sherbondy, USAF (Ret.), who serves as the OCF Director of ROTC Ministry, answered this question from another OCFer: How much time might be involved in participating in or starting an ROTC OCF group?

Many resources and opportunities await those interested in plugging into ROTC ministry. Visit ocfusa.org/rotc to get in touch with Larry, check out upcoming ROTC events, and more.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future "Ask OCF" segment, send an email to [email protected].

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today's guest spotlight features two military spouses: Beth Runkle and Corrie Reeter. Beth and her husband currently serve with Cru Military, and she recently published a book called "Another Move, God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife." Corrie is a blogger with a dynamic following on Instagram as @ajoyfulmilspouse, where she and her followers celebrate the uniqueness, blessings, and adventures of military marriage and family life.

Speaking from their experiences as military spouses, Beth and Corrie discuss the bitterness that may arise for some military spouses as they experience deployments, moves, and more. In the course of this conversation, we reference Beth's list of 10 ways to overcome bitterness and resentment, which you can view here.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected].

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Beth and Corrie, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. When was a time you personally experienced bitterness in your life as a military service member and/or spouse?

1. How did you overcome that bitterness?

1. In what ways is the military life a sanctifying one?

1. What is the value of counting your blessings, entrusting everything to the Lord, and maintaining an eternal perspective?

Show Notes

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Job opening at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy: Contact PK Carlton ([email protected]) or Marci Morris ([email protected]) for more info, or visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about and apply for the opening at USCGA. Applications are open until 31 Oct.

• In His Service Retreat for women in uniform: Visit events.navigators.org/women-in-uniform-in-his-service-retreat-2024 for more details about this retreat coming up in Jefferson, Texas.

• OCF Mid-Atlantic & Northeast Fall Retreat: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/events to learn more and register, and email any questions to the Chiaravallottis at [email protected].

• Winter Retreats at OCF Conference Centers: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat to register for one of White Sulphur Springs' Winter Retreat sessions, or visit springcanyon.org/winter-retreat to register for one of Spring Canyon's Winter Retreat sessions.

ASK OCF

LTC Ryan Wainwright, USA (Ret.), who serves as the Assistant Director of Field Operations, answered this question from another OCFer: Is our membership expanding or contracting?

OCF isn't just for military officers—anyone sincerely able to sign the Statement of Faith and Participation and agree with the OCF Biblical Guidelines for Member Conduct can become a member of OCF. To become a member, first acknowledge your agreement with the Statement of Faith, then visit ocfusa.org/join to fill out the form.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future "Ask OCF" segment, send an email to [email protected].

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today's guest spotlight features Col PK Carlton, USAF (Ret.), who currently serves as OCF's Director of Field Staff. In this role, he focuses on the care and engagement for our Field Staff at the four Service Academies and our Gateway ministries at Leavenworth and Maxwell.

PK and his wife Lindsey have served as Local Leaders across their Air Force career, later serving as Ministry Team at USAFA that led to them leading the USAFA ministry for two years. They love having cadets over and mentoring young officers and have a heart for the Field Staff and their families that serve our key ministries.

Earlier this year, PK led a retreat session for USAFA cadets at Spring Canyon (springcanyon.org) to unpack this frequently asked question in OCF circles: "How do I evangelize in uniform?" PK joined us on Crosspoint to share some of the encouragement he gave those cadets and to share his own testimony as well.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to [email protected].

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with PK, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How do you feel about evangelism, and what experiences have shaped your impression?

1. Why is it important to keep Matthew 5:16 and Romans 10:14 in mind when thinking about sharing your faith?

1. Who might be able to mentor you in evangelism?

1. What techniques have you found work well for sharing your own testimony?

In this episode, COL Andy MacLean, USA (Ret.), the coordinator for Latin America at the Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching and Services (ACCTS (https://accts.org/)), discusses the mission of ACCTS and its work in developing Christian leaders in the armed forces worldwide.

He shares his experiences working with military communities in Latin America and the challenges and opportunities he encounters. Andy also highlights the upcoming AMCF World Conference and the need for financial support and prayer for the conference's success.

Andy then shares his testimony and the five fingerprints of God in his life. He discusses his journey from being a missionary kid to a military officer and the unexpected opportunities and doors that God opened for him. He emphasizes the importance of being a good steward of what God has entrusted to us and thinking strategically about where God has placed us.

He encourages Christians in the military to use their credentials and experiences to make an impact for the kingdom of God and to be mindful of the bigger picture in their actions and decisions.

Andy mentions a few resources in this interview: OCF small groups (https://www.ocfusa.org/directory/), Rocky Mountain High (https://www.springcanyon.org/rocky-mountain-high/), and the AMCF World Conference (https://www.worldconferenceamcf.com/en).

Takeaways

• ACCTS' mission is to assist in the development of Christian leaders in the armed forces worldwide and establish military Christian fellowships.

• Andy works as the coordinator for Latin America, supporting military Christian fellowships in 20 countries.

• The AMCF World Conference aims to encourage and equip military Christians from around the world and provide a vision for their mission.

• Financial support and prayer are needed for the success of the conference and the ongoing work of ACCTS.

• There is a need for more people to get involved in ACCTS and support military Christian communities globally.

• Be a good steward of what God has entrusted to you.

• Think strategically about where God has placed you.

• Use your credentials and experiences to make an impact for the kingdom of God.

• Be mindful of the bigger picture in your actions and decisions.

Points to Ponder

1. Andy talks about the Lord using his military career to prepare him for his role with ACCTS. How have you seen God use an experience in your life for another?

1. When have you seen hardship bear fruit?

1. Andy shares about connections and networking being a way to further the gospel elsewhere. What do his anecdotes remind us of when it comes to the Lord and His church?

1. Thinking of the theme for this year's AMCF World Conference, what does it mean to you to "arise and shine" (Isaiah 60:1)?

1. How are you stewarding what God has given you?