Seeking the City Podcast

Join us as we explore the journey of faith, the power of evangelism, and the impact of faithful ministry through the inspiring stories of Jamie Ward and Mark Taylor. Discover practical insights on God-enabled church growth, discipleship, and how to effectively share the gospel in your community.

• Seeking the City Podcast
• Hillview Heights Church
• Steve Ayer's Book 'Igniting Passion in Your Church'
• Jamie Ward's Social Media
• Steve Sjogren's Book 'A Conspiracy of Kindness'
• Thom Rainer's Ministry Insights

• Twitter
• Website

#evangelism #churchgrowth #discipleship #faith #faithjourney #gospel #ministry #churchleadership #communityoutreach #steveayers #thomrainer #stevesjogren #jamieward #campbellsvilleuniversity

In Part 1, hosts Mark Taylor and Steve Sprankle explore the first sermon of Billy Graham's 1957 New York Crusade. The first of many gatherings at Madison Square Gardens featured the themes of global crisis, moral uncertainty, and the call to repentance, emphasizing the need for individuals to choose whom they will serve. The conversation highlights the significance of transformation of a great city through faith in Jesus and the urgency of making a decision to follow God.

In 1957, New York City was the crossroads of the world—restless, crowded, and searching. And in the heart of Manhattan, something unexpected happened.

Join hosts Mark Taylor and Steve Sprankle for a look at the backstory of Billy Graham's famous 1957 NYC Crusade, investigating how for sixteen weeks the gospel message created a movement that changed a city and still shapes the world around us today. It's a story of God's providence, power, and presence in a city—not just as a religious event—a story of faith, history, and a city listening. Heaven met Manhattan.

In this episode of the Seeking the City podcast, Mark Taylor interviews Jordan Thomas, a young man on a mission to spread the gospel and disciple others. Jordan shares his journey of faith, his experiences with Campus Outreach, and his upcoming mission work in Brazil. He discusses the importance of understanding the relationship with God, the challenges of support raising, and the cultural adaptations he will face in Brazil. The conversation emphasizes the significance of faith, community, and the call to share Jesus with others.

Also in this episode:

• Jordan's journey began with a strong foundation in faith from a young age.
• Campus Outreach played a crucial role in Jordan's spiritual growth and leadership development.
• The parable of the Prodigal Son resonated deeply with Jordan's personal experiences.
• Jordan realized the importance of a relationship with God over mere religious practices.
• He transitioned from a career in mathematics to full-time ministry work.
• Raising support for his mission work has strengthened Jordan's reliance on God.
• Cultural differences between American and Brazilian perspectives will require adaptation.
• Jordan aims to disciple students in Brazil, focusing on long-term faith development.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jordan's Mission Journey

04:32 Jordan's Faith Journey and Transformation

10:48 Understanding the Prodigal Son's Parable

17:52 Commitment to Campus Outreach in Brazil

22:17 Transition from Mathematics to Ministry

27:19 Relying on God During Support Raising

31:12 Preparing for Cultural Differences in Brazil

Contact Jordan Thomas

• Email him at [email protected]
• Follow and socially share Jordan on...
  Instagram

  https://www.instagram.com/_jordan.mike
  Facebook
  https://www.facebook.com/jordan.thomas.277567
  

Support Jordan's Mission:
https://serve.campusoutreach.org/donate/jordan-thomas/

Contact Seeking the City Podcast

• Email us at [email protected]
• Website: https://www.seekingthecity.org
• Follow and socially share us on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube
• Listen and watch us on Apple Podcast and Spotify and Youtube channels

In this episode of the Seeking City Podcast, host Mark Taylor engages in a heartfelt conversation with Denise Robertson, who shares her profound journey of faith, loss, and the power of storytelling in bringing others to Christ. Denise recounts her salvation experience at a young age, the impact of her daughter's tragic death, and how these experiences have shaped her writing and ministry. The discussion emphasizes the importance of faith, the role of music in healing, and the necessity of truth in society. Denise's story serves as a testament to the peace of God amidst suffering and the call to share Jesus with others.

Also in this episode:

• The purpose of the podcast is to help share Jesus.
• Denise's salvation story began at the age of six.
• Her daughter's death profoundly impacted her faith.
• Writing became a ministry for Denise after her loss.
• Acceptance of God's will brings peace.
• Denise emphasizes the importance of personal salvation stories.
• Suffering can coexist with the peace of God.
• Music plays a significant role in healing and faith.
• Truth is essential in addressing societal issues.
• Denise encourages listeners to share Jesus with others.

Chapters:

01:09 Denise's Salvation Story

06:19 The Journey of Writing and Ministry

11:30 Navigating Grief and Finding Purpose

18:16 The Impact of Salvation in Family

20:15 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Salvation

23:25 Faith Through Grief and Loss

25:20 Writing a Book: Sweet Things from Dark Places

29:00 The Power of Music and Hope

33:37 Understanding Suffering and God's Purpose

38:14 The Importance of Truth in Society

41:02 Trusting God in Daily Life

#Christianity #discipleship #communityengagement #globalmissions #churchplanting #youthministry #Godsword #culturalengagement #disasterrelief #innovativeministry

Contact Denise Robertson

• Email her at [email protected]

Check out Star News:
https://starnewsgaonline.com/

Contact Seeking the City Podcast

• Email us at [email protected]
• Website: https://www.seekingthecity.org
• Follow and socially share us on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube
• Listen and watch us on Apple Podcast and Spotify and Youtube channels

In this episode of the Singing the City podcast, host Mark Taylor speaks with Pastor Joe Salvatore about his journey of faith, his call to ministry, and the importance of community engagement in sharing the gospel. Joe shares his personal testimony of coming to faith in Christ during college, his experiences in student ministry, and how he uses coaching as a tool for evangelism. The conversation emphasizes the significance of equipping believers for ministry and the impact of personal relationships in spreading the gospel.

Highlights:

• Joe came to faith in college through a wrestling coach.
• The importance of having a mentor in ministry.
• Coaching can be a powerful tool for evangelism.
• Every believer has a ministry and can share the gospel.
• Community engagement is crucial for effective ministry.
• Building relationships is key to sharing the gospel.
• Equipping the saints for ministry is essential.
• Personal testimonies can lead to significant life changes.
• God moments can happen in unexpected ways.
• The influence of coaches can change lives.

Chapters:

02:40 Joe's Salvation Testimony

06:02 Call to Ministry and Early Experiences

12:16 Coaching as a Tool for Evangelism

12:52 Community Engagement and Gospel Sharing

18:23 Building Relationships in the Community

21:20 The Impact of Coaches and Mentorship

22:59 God Moments and Personal Testimonies

#Christianity #discipleship #communityengagement #globalmissions #churchplanting #youthministry #Godsword #culturalengagement #disasterrelief #innovativeministry

Contact Pastor Joe Salvatore

• Email her at [email protected]
• Website: https://www.cassvillebaptist.com/

Contact Seeking the City Podcast

• Email us at [email protected]
• Website: https://www.seekingthecity.org
• Follow and socially share us on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube
• Listen and watch us on Apple Podcast and Spotify and Youtube channels

In this episode of the Seeking the City podcast, Mark Taylor interviews Coby Canty, known as "Mama Neal", who shares her journey of transforming personal tragedy into a mission of hope and support through her organization, Don't Neal Inc. After the loss of her son, a police officer who took his own life, Coby founded Don't Neal to help others facing extraordinary circumstances. The conversation explores themes of grief, community outreach, and the importance of finding purpose in pain. Coby discusses her initiatives, including a basketball camp for youth, and emphasizes the need for connection and support in times of adversity. Her faith and resilience shine through as she encourages listeners to recognize their own purpose and the impact they can have on others.

Highlights:

• Coby Canty founded Don't Neal Inc. to help others after her son's tragic death.
• The organization aims to support individuals facing extraordinary circumstances.
• Coby emphasizes the importance of community and connection in overcoming grief.
• She offers 24/7 support to those in need, focusing on personal connections.
• Coby's basketball camp initiative provides mentorship and support to youth.
• She believes that purpose can be found even in pain and loss.
• Coby encourages others to take small actions that can make a big difference.
• Her faith plays a crucial role in her mission and resilience.
• Coby advocates for recognizing and supporting those who may be struggling silently.
• The conversation highlights the importance of outreach and community involvement.

#Christianity #discipleship #communityengagement #globalmissions #churchplanting #youthministry #Godsword #culturalengagement #disasterrelief #innovativeministry

Contact Don't Neal, Inc. ("Mama Neal")

• Email her at [email protected]
• Follow and socially share Don't Neal, Inc. on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube

Contact Seeking the City Podcast

• Email us at [email protected]
• Website: https://www.seekingthecity.org
• Follow and socially share us on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube
• Listen and watch us on Apple Podcast and Spotify and Youtube channels

In this episode of the Seeking the City Podcast, host Mark Taylor engages in a heartfelt conversation with Ethan Thompson, a young music artist and author. They discuss Ethan's journey from California to Georgia, his struggles with faith, and how he found Jesus amidst life's challenges. Ethan shares his experiences with music as a form of worship and testimony, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and connection with God. The conversation also touches on Ethan's aspirations in music and ministry, encouraging listeners to embrace their faith and share it with others.

Highlights:

• Ethan's journey reflects a significant transformation from a troubled youth to a faith-driven individual.
• The importance of seeking validation from God rather than the world.
• Music serves as a powerful medium for expressing faith and sharing testimony.
• Ethan's experiences highlight the impact of mentorship and community in spiritual growth.
• Finding faith can happen in unexpected moments and places.
• Authenticity in faith is crucial for connecting with others.
• Ethan's story encourages young people to embrace their struggles and seek God.
• The significance of prayer and divine intervention in personal crises.
• Ethan aims to create music that resonates with a diverse audience while pointing to Jesus.
• Sharing Jesus with others is a vital part of living out one's faith.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to E & E and Journey

01:30 From California to Georgia: A Life Transformation

04:24 Navigating Life Without Jesus

08:21 Finding Faith: The Turning Point

17:35 Music as a Medium for Faith

20:23 The Release of 'Dirty Money' and Artistic Expression

22:51 The Journey to Faith

24:16 Music as a Ministry

26:36 The Power of Storytelling

29:00 Humility and Identity in Christ

30:53 Community and Collaboration

34:39 God Moments and Personal Growth

#Christianity #discipleship #communityengagement #globalmissions #churchplanting #youthministry #Godsword #culturalengagement #disasterrelief #innovativeministry

Send us your questions or comments to the show!

Contact Seeking the City Podcast

• Email us at [email protected]
• Website: https://www.seekingthecity.org
• Follow and socially share us on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube
• Listen and watch us on Apple Podcast and Spotify and Youtube channels

Summary

In this episode of the Seeking the City Podcast, host Mark Taylor engages in a deep conversation with Michael Hagen, Fellowship Planter at Carrollton Christian Fellowship, about the current state of America, the role of the church in community engagement, and innovative approaches to discipleship. They discuss Michael's extensive global experiences, the importance of disaster relief efforts, and the need for churches to adapt to the changing dynamics of ministry, especially among younger generations. The conversation emphasizes the significance of God's Word in guiding discipleship ministry practices and the necessity of being culturally engaged without compromising biblical truths.

Also in today's episode:

• The church must be aware of current events and their impact on communities.
• Disaster relief efforts are crucial for community engagement.
• Theologically-driven approaches to discipleship can enhance church growth.
• Younger generations are eager to learn and engage with God's Word.
• God's Word should be the foundation of all ministry practices.
• Churches need to be cautious of trends that may not align with biblical teachings.
• Cultural engagement is essential for effective ministry.
• Forgiveness is a key component of discipleship.
• Practical outreach to neighbors can foster community relationships.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Seeking City Podcast
02:20 Insights on Riots and Community Dynamics
04:30 Global Experiences and Church Dynamics
07:05 Hurricane Relief Efforts and Community Engagement
09:02 Planting Carrollton Christian Fellowship
11:22 Innovative Approaches to Discipleship
13:48 Engaging the Community Beyond the Church
16:10 The Importance of God's Word for Gen Z
18:36 Hope for the Future Generations
24:00 Engaging with Gen Z and Gen Alpha
24:50 Trends in Church Ministries
26:27 The Importance of Direction in Ministry
30:13 Theological Foundations vs. Trends
31:54 Equipping for Ministry
33:28 Countercultural Church vs. Cultural Submersion
35:59 Discipleship and Forgiveness
39:17 Embracing the World in Ministry
44:01 Flexibility in Church Practices
46:25 STC Podcast video_Outro.mp4

#Christianity #discipleship #communityengagement #globalmissions #churchplanting #youthministry #Godsword #culturalengagement #disasterrelief #innovativeministry

Send us your questions or comments to the show with a text message!

Contact Seeking the City Podcast

• Email us at [email protected]
• Website: https://www.seekingthecity.org
• Follow and socially share us on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube
• Listen and watch us on Apple Podcast and Spotify and Youtube channels

In this episode of the Seeking the City Podcast, host Mark Taylor engages with Ernesto Marquez to explore the powerful movement of the gospel within Hispanic communities. They discuss Ernesto's journey from Mexico to the U.S., his role Church Partnership Manager at Compassion International, and the importance of church planting in reaching Hispanic and diverse populations. The conversation delves into the demographics of Hispanic and Latino communities, the unique challenges they face, and the significance of community and cultural understanding in effective, compassionate discipleship. The episode concludes with reflections on recent God moments and the call to compassionately engage with neighbors.

Also in this episode:

• The gospel is moving powerfully in Hispanic communities.
• Compassion International aims to release children from poverty in Jesus' name.
• Hispanic churches are experiencing growth amidst a flat overall church growth in the U.S.
• Discipleship in Hispanic communities must happen within the context of community and compassion.
• Cultural understanding is crucial for effective ministry to Hispanic populations.
• Compassionate outreach involves addressing felt needs and spiritual needs.
• The importance of celebrating cultural heritage and differences in ministry efforts.
• Building relationships is key to sharing the gospel effectively.

Chapters:

00:00 Exploring Hispanic Church Planting and Evangelism
03:10 Compassion International's Mission and Impact
06:40 The Journey of Iglesia Siloé Church Plant
09:40 Demographics and Cultural Insights of Hispanic Communities
14:08 Religious Landscape and Faith Backgrounds
14:36 Challenges and Opportunities in Reaching Hispanic Communities
15:52 Understanding the Diversity Within Hispanic Communities
17:57 Addressing Practical Needs for Integration
20:01 Bridging Cultural Gaps in Ministry
22:21 Embracing Cultural Distinctiveness
23:39 Developing Tailored Discipleship Materials
23:39 Celebrating God Moments in Community Engagement
30:26 STC Podcast video outro.mp4

Helpful Resources:

• Compassion International Church Partnership Program
• Barna Group & Gloo: State of the Church 2025

Contact Ernesto & Iglesia Siloé:

• Ernesto Marquez on Linkedin
• Iglesia Siloé

#SeekingCityPodcast #Gospel #HispanicCommunities #HispanicMinistry #HispanicDiscipleship #HispanicChurchPlanting #HispanicChurch #LatinoChurchPlanting #LatinoDiscipleship #LatinoChurch #CompassionInternational #ChurchPlanting #Discipleship #CulturalInsights #MexicanHeritage #MexicanAmerican #MexicanAmericanChurch #Spanishspeakingchurch #CommunityEngagement #Faith

Send us your questions or comments to the show with a text message!

Contact Seeking the City Podcast

• Email us at [email protected]
• Website: https://www.seekingthecity.org
• Follow and socially share us on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube
• Listen and watch us on Apple Podcast and Spotify and Youtube channels