Smell Like Jesus

In this episode, we explore the nature of Christian mission, the importance of faithful discipleship, and how everyday life can be a platform for living out the gospel. We discuss the balance between spiritual formation and outward outreach, emphasizing faithfulness in all aspects of life.

Keywords:

#Christianmission #discipleship #spiritualformation #outreach #faithfulness #gospel #globalmissions #localevangelism #Christianlife #spiritualdiscipline

Key  topics

The importance of mission trips and their encouragement

Balancing inward spiritual growth with outward evangelism

The role of faithfulness and faithful plotting in discipleship

The global and local scope of Christian mission

The integration of leisure and mission in daily life

The significance of living faithfully in obscurity

The danger of overemphasizing individual spirituality at the expense of outward focus

The biblical call to live sacrificially and disruptively for Christ

The importance of community and partnership in mission

The role of spiritual disciplines in shaping a missional life

 Sound bites

"Disruption is at the heart of following Christ."

"Leisure can be a gift from God when used to His glory."

"God cares for us more than the birds and flowers."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mission and Leisure

01:55 Ben's Mission Trip to Scotland

08:09 Encouragement in Mission Work

10:43 Understanding Mission: Reach vs. Be on Mission

11:12 The Integration of Mission and Daily Life

19:00 The Disruptive Nature of Following Christ

20:53 Leisure vs. Mission: Finding Balance

26:23 Spiritual Formation and Outward Orientation

31:26 Conclusion and Book Recommendations

Resources:

Relentless Tenderness of Jesus by Brendan Manning - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Relentless+Tenderness+of+Jesus+Brendan+Manning

2000 Years of Christ's Power by Nick Needham - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=2000+Years+of+Christ%27s+Power+Nick+Needham

Culture Care by Makoto Fujimura - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Culture+Care+Makoto+Fujimura

In this episode, we explore the meaning of good citizenship, patriotic celebration, and the spiritual implications of national pride, especially in the context of American history and Christian faith. We discuss how to honor our country without falling into idolatry and how the church can foster unity across political divides.

#patriotism #citizenship #Christianfaith #Americanhistory #unity #idolatry #FourthofJuly #spiritualgrowth

Key topics:

The significance of the 250th American independence anniversary

How European visitors perceive America during the World Cup

The balance between patriotism and Christian humility

The danger of political idolatry and how to avoid it

The importance of unity in the church across political differences

The role of gratitude and generosity in Christian life

The impact of American culture on faith and identity

How to disciple believers in a polarized political climate

Sound bites:

"Our hearts are idol factories"

"Blessed with poverty, not just plenty"

"The church should be defined by Jesus, not politics"

Chapters:

00:00 Celebrating American Citizenship and Community

03:55 Reflections on Patriotism and Global Perspectives

09:57 Navigating the Balance of National Pride and Faith

17:33 Political Idolatry vs. Healthy Patriotism

24:42 Exploring the Beauty of American Landscapes

26:24 Cultural Reflections on American Identity

28:28 The Fascination with American Innovation

29:45 Literary Insights and Personal Growth

37:02 Engaging with Incarcerated Communities

42:57 Looking Ahead: Future Conversations and Themes

In this episode, the gang explores the concept of gospel sustainability, emphasizing how the gospel remains good amidst life's challenges and moral failures in ministry. The discussion highlights practical ways to keep the gospel central in all areas of life, including prayer, community, silence, and reflection.

#gospel #spiritualgrowth #Christianlife #ministry #prayer #community #silence #confession #perseverance #grace

Topics:

Gospel sustainability in ministry and life

The importance of remembering personal sinfulness

Practices of silence, solitude, and prayer

The role of community and church membership

The ongoing reminder of Christ's sufficiency

Sound bites:

"Without Christ, I am done."

"Groaning is part of the journey towards Christ."

"Come Lord Jesus, restore all things."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Gospel Sustainability

02:56 The Burden of Moral Failures

05:58 The Good News in the Face of Sin

08:42 Community and the Role of the Church

11:49 Practical Steps to Embrace the Gospel

14:40 Finding Joy in the Good News

17:50 Silence, Solitude, and Connection with God

20:54 The Importance of Reminders in Faith

23:42 Exploring Literature and Spiritual Growth

26:34 Conclusion and Reflection

Resources:

Piercing Heaven: Prayers of the Puritans - https://www.amazon.com/Piercing-Heaven-Prayers-Puritans-Robert/dp/1596380844

Prone to Wander: Prayers of Confession and Celebration - https://www.amazon.com/Prone-Wander-Prayers-Confession-Celebration/dp/1433552784

The Pause App by John Eldridge - https://pauseapp.com

The Correspondent by J. Ryan Stradal - https://www.amazon.com/Correspondent-J-Ryan-Stradal/dp/0525563704

Charles de Gaulle Biography - https://www.amazon.com/Charles-Gaulle-Long-Shadow-Leadership/dp/0374536794

This episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast explores the purpose of the church, addressing issues like hypocrisy, community, and the true offer of the church in a skeptical age. We reflect on what the church should be and how it can better serve believers and seekers alike.What the Church Really Offers: Beyond Hypocrisy and SpectacleReimagining Church: Community, Authenticity, and Gospel Hope#church #community #hypocrisy #faith #christianlife #churchpurpose #spiritualgrowth #churchtrauma #health #churchcritiqueKey topics:The purpose of the church in modern societyThe problem of hypocrisy and acting in churchThe importance of authentic community and vulnerabilityThe role of small churches versus large churchesThe hope of the gospel and the future of the churchSound bites:"Why church? What do we really get here?""Martin Luther: Live fully in the grace of Christ.""The church offers forgiveness, freedom, and new life."Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Milestones00:57 The Church in the Age of Deconstruction03:59 Questions of Faith and Community07:33 The Role of the Church11:30 The Importance of Smaller Communities15:14 The Church as a Preview of Heaven17:26 Addressing Hypocrisy in the Church21:29 Living Authentically in Community25:16 Book Recommendations and Reflections29:17 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement Resources:Eat, Drink, and Be Merry by Ray Ortland - https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Drink-Be-Merry-Grace/dp/1433586074Galatians Commentary by Martin Luther - https://www.amazon.com/Martin-Luthers-Galatians-Commentary/dp/159856583XCharles Dickens' Bleak House - https://www.amazon.com/Bleak-House-Charles-Dickens/dp/1503280465

Exploring the Purpose of Prayer, Beliefs about Aliens, and Embracing Silence in Faith

Join us for an in-depth discussion on the true purpose of prayer, how to handle unanswered prayers, and the significance of silence in our spiritual walk. We also explore contemporary questions like the impact of extraterrestrial life on Christian faith, and dive into the beauty of trusting God's sovereignty amidst life's mysteries.

#prayer #christianliving #faith #aliens #christianfaith #jesus #howtopray

Main Topics Covered:

The biblical and theological foundation of prayer as a means of relationship and trust, not just request.

How to disciple others toward authentic, pressure-free prayer, especially for newcomers.

The significance of understanding prayer as a privilege and act of faith, not mere obligation.

The challenge and promise of unanswered prayers, trusting God's higher thoughts and purposes.

The relationship between scientific curiosity about aliens and biblical truth, emphasizing Christ’s centrality.

The devotional reflection on silence in prayer, inspired by Teresa of Ávila and how God's silence can be an invitation to growth.

Practical insights into disciplines like solitude, mystical prayer, and embracing mystery in our walk with God.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Exploring the purpose of prayer from a sovereignty perspective

02:00 – How prayer relates to experience and relational posture with God

04:00 – Prayer as a channel of grace: not changing God but deepening trust

06:00 – Teaching believers to pray without pressure, focusing on authenticity

08:00 – The beauty of praying with those unencumbered by church culture

10:00 – The importance of biblical prayers and their connection to knowing Christ

12:00 – Biblical models for praying in all circumstances and being honest

14:00 – The acts of prayer: adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication

16:00 – Navigating unanswered prayers and trusting God's higher plan

18:00 – The analogy of marriage and divine relationship in prayer

20:00 – Trusting God's sovereignty when prayers are not answered as expected

22:00 – Confidence in Christ as the ultimate refuge and authority

24:00 – The impact of extraterrestrial life on Christian belief and biblical truth

26:00 – The importance of the resurrection as the foundation of faith

28:00 – The beauty of divine mystery and God's creative sovereignty

30:00 – Bookshelf reflections: mystical theology and the contemplative life

34:00 – The value of slow, contemplative reading and spiritual formation

36:00 – Teresa of Ávila and the experience of unanswered prayer as divine invitation

38:00 – The silence of God as a space for trust, healing, and spiritual maturity

41:00 – Closing encouragement: growing in prayer, trust, and understanding God's hidden work

Resources:

Make Your Home in This Luminous Dark by James K. Smith

Remember Death by Matthew McCullough

Andrew Peterson - The Silence of God (Song)

The Interior Castle by St. Teresa of Ávila

The Great Cloud of Unknowing

Special Note:Keep embracing the mystery of God's silence, trusting in His sovereignty, and deepening your personal relationship through authentic prayer. Remember, faith thrives in trust and relationship—especially when answers seem delayed or different than expected.

This episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast explores the profound topic of forgiveness from a biblical and practical perspective. It covers the nature of divine and human forgiveness, reconciliation, and how to navigate forgiveness in difficult situations, including church trauma.

#forgiveness #reconciliation #Christianliving #churchtrauma, #divineforgiveness #humanforgiveness #grace #gospel #spiritualjourney #church #jesus #christian

Key topics:

The biblical understanding of forgiveness and reconciliation

The difference between divine and human forgiveness

The role of repentance in reconciliation

Forgiveness in the context of church trauma and hurt

The ongoing journey of forgiveness and grace

Sound bites:

"Forgiveness is releasing someone from obligation or debt."

"Forgiveness is a winding journey, not a single transaction."

"We are called to forgive as the Lord forgives us."

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Forgiveness

01:28 Defining Forgiveness

05:19 Reconciliation vs. Forgiveness

08:20 Cultural Perspectives on Forgiveness

11:35 The Journey of Forgiveness

20:34 Forgiveness in the Church Context

23:24 The Battle of Forgiveness

30:26 The Journey of Healing and Grief

40:05 Reflections on Ministry and Imperfection

Resources:

The Working Definition Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/working-definition/id154123456

Tim Keller on Forgiveness - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/forgiveness-tim-keller/

Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund - https://www.amazon.com/Gentle-Lowly-Rediscovering-Christ-Compassion/dp/1433553196

Facing the Mountain by Daniel Brown - https://www.amazon.com/Facing-Mountain-Japanese-American-Internment/dp/0525559734

Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - https://www.amazon.com/Les-Miserables-Victor-Hugo/dp/045141943X

Make Your Home in This Luminous Dark by James K. Smith - https://www.amazon.com/Make-Your-Home-Luminous-Dark/dp/1496447474

On this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, the crew explores how Christians can hold on to hope amid political upheaval, war, and societal disillusionment. The conversation covers the importance of slowing down, engaging with creation, and finding peace in God's sovereignty, especially through Scripture and prayer.

keywords

Christian hope, societal upheaval, spiritual disciplines, creation, Psalm 46, space and God, literature, art, prayer, peace in Christ

key topics

Holding onto hope amidst societal upheaval

The spiritual discipline of slowing down and paying attention

Creation as a testimony to God's glory

The role of literature and art in revealing truth

Finding peace through Scripture and prayer

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Hope in Society's Turmoil

01:58 The Numbness and Distraction of Modern Politics

06:47 The Christian Call to Be Informed and Hopeful

10:23 Psalm 46: God's Sovereign Power in Chaos

15:06 Space as a Reflection of God's Glory and Love

20:50 The Importance of Slowing Down and Paying Attention

26:45 Literature, Art, and the Reflection of God's Truth

32:46 Redemptive Literature and the Search for Meaning

37:19 Conclusion: Trusting in God's Peace and Sovereignty

resources

Psalm 46 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+46&version=ESV

Leo Tolstoy's Confession - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Leo+Tolstoy+Confession

Gustave Flaubert's Madame Bovary - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Madame+Bovary

Navigating Faith and AI: Church, Culture, and Discipleship in a Digital Age

Discover how Christians are engaging with artificial intelligence—its potential benefits, pastoral challenges, and theological reflections. This episode explores how faith communities can respond wisely and faithfully to rapid technological change.

Jonathan Shradar hosts Ben Brophy, Jon Rees, and Matt Pilgrim.

- Introduction: Faith in the Age of AI

- The Ubiquity of AI in Church Life and Personal Devotion

- Ethical Use and Misuse of AI in Ministry and Teaching
- Critiquing AI as a Tool for Sermon and Content Creation
- Concerns about AI for Emotional and Relational Replacement
- Pastoral Risks: Plagiarism, Superficial Connection, and Identity
- The Value of Embodied Discipleship and Personal Presence
- The Impact of AI on Youth Relationships and Cyber Grieving
- Pastoring Those Engaging Deeply with AI & Recommendations for Church Outreach
- Cultivating Community and Trust in Face-to-Face Encounters
- Personal Devotion in the Age of AI: Slowing Down and Wrestling with God
- AI as a Modern Divination and the Illusion of Knowing
- The Limitations of AI: Predicting the Next Word vs. True Knowing
- The Threat of Losing Souls vs. Faithful Engagement with Scripture
- How Churches Can Prepare for Economic and Employment Shifts
- The Role of Trades and Practical Work in a Tech-Driven World
- Facing Change: God's Unchanging Faithfulness as Our Anchor
- Reflections on Fear, Confidence, and Trust in God's Sovereignty
- Fighting FOBO: Contentment, Work, and the Hope of Eternal Life
- Final Reflections: Living Faithfully Amidst AI's Rise
- Bookshelf: The Clay Pot Conspiracy and others
- Exploring the Inner Life and Wilderness with The Solace of Fierce Landscapes
- Becoming New: The Power of Grace and Contentment in Our Daily Lives / A Word of Encouragement from Philippians 4:8-13

Resources & Links:

• The Clay Pot Conspiracy by Dave Harvey
• Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
• The Solace of Fierce Landscapes by Belden Lane
• Bible Project on Philippians
• Biola article on Preparing for AI

On this episode of the Smell Like Jesus podcast, our conversation explores the concept of Christian masculinity through the perspectives of three good friends in different contexts and seasons of life. They discuss the definitions of masculinity, the influence of cultural voices, the importance of vulnerability in fatherhood, and the role of community in discipleship. The dialogue emphasizes the need for men to model Christ-like behavior and to engage with the next generation in meaningful ways, encouraging them to pursue a deeper relationship with God.

Takeaways

Christian masculinity is defined by humility, courage, and restraint.

Influencers shape young men's perceptions of masculinity.

Vulnerability is essential in fatherhood and modeling behavior.

Community plays a crucial role in discipleship and mentoring.

Cultural voices often conflict with biblical teachings on masculinity.

Personal experiences shape our understanding of manhood.

The church can provide a constructive vision of masculinity.

Engaging with young men requires addressing their cultural influences.

Spiritual formation can happen in everyday life, not just in church settings.

The journey of maturity is ongoing for all men.

Sound Bites

"The world needs magnanimous men."

"We must be clear as believers."

"Watch how your mom and I interact."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Christian Masculinity

02:53 Defining Christian Masculinity

05:56 The Role of Influencers in Shaping Masculinity

08:49 Personal Experiences and Models of Masculinity

11:38 Vulnerability and Transparency in Fatherhood

14:40 The Importance of Community in Discipleship

17:18 Navigating Cultural Voices and Expectations

20:26 The Challenge of Presenting Christ to Young Men

23:26 The Inner Life and Spiritual Formation

26:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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."