In this bonus episode, we hear from Brett McCracken, Senior Editor and Director of Communications for The Gospel Coalition, as he discusses the various forms of 'death' associated with excessive smartphone use and scrolling, including physical, emotional, and cognitive deaths. He introduces the concept of 'brain rot,' a term used to describe the deterioration of mental faculties due to overconsumption of trivial online content. McCracken emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the dangers of cognitive atrophy exacerbated by technology and AI. He also offers practical solutions for churches and communities to combat these issues, such as creating phone-free spaces and fostering a culture of reading. This talk was given at a TGCSD regional chapter event on August 20, 2025.

Takeaways

Scrolling habits lead to various forms of death.

Teen suicide rates correlate with smartphone use.

Brain rot reflects a decline in cognitive abilities.

Excessive screen time contributes to emotional distress.

Critical thinking skills are diminishing in the digital age.

Daydreaming is essential for mental health.

AI may worsen cognitive decline by outsourcing thinking.

Churches should address the issue of brain rot.

Creating phone-free spaces can help combat distractions.

Cultivating a reading culture can enhance critical thinking.

Sound Bites

"We're scrolling ourselves to death."

"Brain rot is a fascinating term."

"Normalize phone-free spaces in churches."

In this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, Jonathan Shradar and Geoff Hsu delve into the complex relationship between shame and faith. They explore how shame can hinder personal transformation and the importance of vulnerability in the Christian journey. Drawing insights from Curt Thompson's book, 'The Soul of Shame', they discuss the psychological and theological implications of shame, emphasizing the need for healthy community connections and the integration of psychology with theology to foster genuine discipleship and healing.

Keywords

shame, faith, transformation, vulnerability, gospel, psychology, theology, community, healing, discipleship

Takeaways

Shame can hinder our transformation in faith.

Vulnerability is essential for authentic community.

Understanding shame requires both psychological and theological insights.

Jesus experienced shame, which connects Him to our struggles.

Healthy community can mitigate feelings of shame.

Spiritual practices alone may not lead to transformation without addressing shame.

Shame is a bodily response, not just an emotional one.

Creating safe environments is crucial for healing.

The church must integrate emotional maturity into discipleship.

Transformation is possible through understanding and addressing shame.

Titles

Shame and Faith: A Deep Dive

The Journey of Understanding Shame

Sound bites

"Jesus took on our shame."

"Shame is more than just a feeling."

"Shame has a grip on our lives."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shame and Flourishing

03:36 The Journey of Understanding Shame

06:42 The Role of Spiritual Formation

09:52 Defining Shame and Its Impact

12:27 Theological Insights on Shame

15:38 The Church's Role in Addressing Shame

18:38 Integrating Psychology and Theology

21:37 Practical Steps for Transformation

24:44 Creating Safe Community Environments

27:43 Jesus and the Experience of Shame

30:36 The Future of Confessional Communities

39:41 Smell Like Jesus | Shame — Take 02

40:47 Understanding Shame in Faith

41:16 The Impact of Shame on Transformation

41:29 Understanding Shame and Vulnerability

41:58 The Role of Identity in Christ

In this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, Jonathan Shradar and Ben Brophy discuss the complex Israel-Iran conflict, exploring how Christians can engage with the situation thoughtfully and prayerfully. They delve into the theological implications of the conflict, the role of the modern state of Israel compared to biblical Israel, and the importance of prayer for those affected by the violence. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion, understanding, and reliance on God amidst the chaos.

Takeaways

The Israel-Iran conflict is complex and multifaceted.

Christians should approach the conflict with compassion and understanding.

The modern state of Israel differs from biblical Israel.

Prayer should focus on protecting the vulnerable and seeking justice.

Ephesians 2 highlights the unity of all believers in Christ.

The role of dispensationalism in understanding the conflict is significant.

Non-combatants are often the most affected by the violence.

Scripture does not mandate support for one side over the other.

Hope lies in the return of Jesus Christ and ultimate justice.

God can bring good out of evil situations.

Sound Bites

"Christ tears down the dividing wall of hostility."

"We do not know what's best but you do."

"Somehow turn all of this evil into good."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Israel-Iran Conflict

02:12 Understanding the Complexity of the Conflict

05:15 The Role of Christians in Supporting Israel

09:22 Navigating Religious Contexts in the Conflict

11:40 Prayer and Spiritual Guidance for the Situation

14:43 Closing Thoughts and Prayer

Keywords

Israel, Iran, conflict, Christianity, prayer, Middle East, justice, Ephesians, dispensationalism, Gaza

We have been away for a while, but are soon coming back with more episodes!

In this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, Jonathan shares personal reflections on life, faith, and the fragility of existence following a traumatic experience with his daughter's health. He emphasizes the importance of being present in each moment, recognizing the thin lines between devastation and normality, and the purpose of life in seeking God. The conversation also touches on upcoming topics for the podcast, including shame, mercy, justice, and community engagement.

Keywords: life updates, fragility, purpose, community, faith, Jesus, reflections, family, spirituality, podcast

Takeaways

Life is fragile and can change in an instant.

We must cherish each moment and be present.

The purpose of life is to seek God and find Him.

Our experiences shape our understanding of faith.

Community and relationships are vital in our spiritual journey.

Living with intention allows us to reflect Christ's love.

The podcast will explore various important topics.

We should help others find their way to Christ.

Each breath we take has a purpose.

Life's challenges can lead to deeper faith and understanding.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Life Updates

05:05 The Purpose of Our Lives

Can we use our creative gifts for the glory of God? Should our talents, or even our attempts be instruments to draw us and others closer to Jesus? On this first episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast we endeavor to find out.

Jonathan interviews poet Matt Pilgrim to hear how he has used prose for devotion and perhaps you will be encouraged to dust off the passions God has given you!

Find Matt's poetry online at https://fillfourjars.wordpress.com and on Instagram @matthewtpilgrim

For security reasons this episode is audio only.

Welcome to the Smell Like Jesus podcast from Reservoir Church. Season 1 is coming soon. We are tackling questions of creativity, mercy and justice, disability and the church, shame, and more. Subscribe and follow along.