We’ve been loving these Across the Aisle conversations, so we decided to drop another one today! In this episode, Coby and Al explore helpful ways to ask questions when talking with people from different denominations or those who hold beliefs different from your own. They discuss trying to understand another person’s position as if it were your own, recognizing that we may not always be speaking the same language, and learning to be critically curious—with a critical mind, but never a critical heart. How can we ask better questions, genuinely learn from one another, and remain Christlike even when we disagree? Join us for another honest conversation Across the Aisle.

In Part Three of Across the Aisle, Coby welcomes back his good friend Al Lambert for another honest conversation about navigating differences within the Church. Do we always agree on what we call sin? Why can conversations about the end times become so divisive, and how can we discuss them with grace? They also explore what it means to be saved, what genuine faith looks like, and the difference between grace and forgiveness. Are we approaching people looking for uncommon ground—or are we intentionally searching for the common ground we share in Christ? Even if you haven’t been attending Spiritual Formation for the Family on Wednesday nights, you can jump right into this episode and follow along.

This week, we’re back with another episode of Spiritual Formation for the Family as we continue our conversation about doctrine and our new midweek class, Across the Aisle. Even if you haven’t been attending the class, you can jump right into this episode and follow along.

Coby welcomes Al Lambert back to the podcast to break down what “Tier One doctrine” really means. The guys share which beliefs make their own Tier One lists, explain why these doctrines are essential to the Christian faith, and challenge you to think through your own list. What beliefs must Christians agree on, and where is there room for disagreement?

In this episode of Spiritual Formation for the Family, we begin a new series called Across the Aisle. This series will help us identify the core beliefs of the Christian faith, learn how to ask thoughtful questions and listen well, and better understand what Christians from other denominations truly believe. To begin the conversation, Al Lambert joins us to share parts of his own faith journey and help us consider what it means to pursue truth while extending Christian fellowship across the aisle.

There’s nothing comfortable about the spiritual deserts we walk through, but they are a necessary part of our formation. In this episode, Coby Duren talks about why these seasons matter for us as individuals, as spouses, as parents, and even in the workplace. It’s Holy Week, and we’re going deep.

In this part two episode of Spiritual Formation on the Family, Coby sits down and continues the conversation with Larry Folden, Al Lambert, and Chesney Speaker in a deep and meaningful discussion on Spiritual Formation Across Generations.

Together, they explore how different generations experience healing and growth — and how those experiences shape the way we process pain, faith, and community. From the old “rub some dirt on it and move on” mindset to recognizing the importance of taking time to heal, the discussion offers an honest look at what it means to grow through life’s struggles.

They also reflect on the idea of vulnerability — how previous generations were often taught to stay strong and keep emotions private, and how learning to be open and honest with one another brings powerful healing within community.

The group wrestles with important questions: What are we passing on to the next generation? What have we already passed on? Has the way our generation processes things affected the generation before us — and will it shape those who come after? Through real stories and honest reflection, they share wisdom, strengths, and lessons that bridge the gap between generations.

In this first part of a two-part conversation, Coby isn’t just hosting — he’s sharing his own story while sitting down with three guests from three different generations to talk about their spiritual formation.

Larry Folden, a retired dentist and lifelong member of Central, was saved at a young age, but his spiritual formation really took shape later in life through the influence of a mentor.

Al Lambert, 43, came to Christ later in life after years as an atheist. He shares how his spiritual formation began and what he does now to keep growing.

Chesni Speaker, representing the college generation, reflects on growing up in Central’s student ministry and how that shaped her faith as a young adult.

Together, they talk honestly about faith, growth, and how God shapes lives in every season.

In this conversation, Coby dives into an important question: Should we prioritize local missions over foreign missions?

How do we balance reaching our neighbors right here in our community while also obeying the Great Commission to go to the ends of the earth? Coby explores what Scripture says and how we can faithfully engage in both.

Tune in to be challenged and encouraged in how you think about missions—local and global. 🌍✝️

What is Holy Week, and why is it such a big deal? In this episode, Coby gives us a heartfelt preview of what Holy Week will look like at Central Baptist Church this year—something a little different, a little deeper. He also opens up about his personal Easter testimony in a vulnerable, honest way that points us to the power of both the Lion and the Lamb. Don’t miss this one.

On this episode of Spiritual Formation for the Family, Coby sits down with Kim Arredondo, the children’s minister at Central Baptist Church. Kim shares her top picks for resources and offers practical advice on how to nurture your kids’ faith at home.

Recommended Resources:

Books:

•Raising Tiny Disciples by Phylicia Masonheimer

•Parenting by Paul David Tripp

•One Big Story Bible Storybook by The Gospel Project

•The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls: The Complete Series by M.J. Thomas

•The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

Podcasts:

•Parenting with Ginger Hubbard

•At Home with the Beveres