In this episode, Craig emphasizes the necessity of having a personal mission plan to reach those around us, highlighting the responsibility of believers to share the gospel. He discusses the importance of discipleship and the call to be active missionaries in our communities.

You can tell your story, so go do it.

Takeaways

• You need a plan to reach your neighbors, friends, and family.
• If you don’t plan, chances are no one will.
• Discipleship is a responsibility for all followers of Jesus.
• We are called to share the life-changing gospel.
• Every day, there are people around us who need to hear the gospel.
• You are the missionary that God has called to your community.
• Making disciples is a directive from Jesus.
• Personal mission planning is essential for effective outreach.
• Engaging with your community is a vital part of faith.
• Obeying God’s word includes reaching out to others.

Sound Bites

“You are the missionary that God has called and sent to your community.”

“You need a plan to reach your neighbors.”

“You and I are responsible for obeying the word.”

What is a Christian? Maybe in your culture, you have been led to believe that a Christian is someone who was born into a Christian family. Perhaps you think a Christian is someone who attends church. If you watch enough news, you might even believe that a Christian is someone who lives in a particular place or votes in a particular way. The Bible doesn’t define Christianity in any of these ways.

On this episode, Craig explains what a Christian is and the difference between who a Christian is and what a Christian does. Craig also explains the gospel and gives a clear gospel invitation at the end of this podcast. If you have ever wondered who is a Christian or if you are curious about how you or someone you love could become a Christian, this podcast is for you.

In this conversation, Craig and Paul Gutacker discuss the cultural myth surrounding the concept of absolute freedom and its implications on living a fulfilling life. He argues that the idea of living without constraints or obligations is misleading and ultimately detrimental. Drawing on biblical references, he emphasizes that true freedom involves recognizing and adhering to moral and ethical responsibilities rather than succumbing to immediate desires.

Takeaways

• The cultural myth of absolute freedom is misleading.
• Living without constraints can lead to a lack of fulfillment.
• True freedom involves moral and ethical responsibilities.
• Immediate desires do not equate to authentic living.
• Biblical perspectives offer insights into the nature of freedom.
• The idea of being ‘totally free’ can be detrimental.
• Constraints can lead to a more meaningful life.
• Authenticity should not be confused with lack of obligation.
• Living authentically requires understanding one’s responsibilities.
• Freedom is not the absence of obligation, but the presence of purpose.

Sound Bites

• “Your best life is when you’re totally free.”
• “That’s actually a terrible way to live.”
• “It’s slavery, biblically speaking.”

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson discusses his new book, Fighting for Your Family. He shares the inspiration behind the book, emphasizing the importance of fighting for one’s family rather than against them. Craig covers themes of spiritual warfare, the role of leadership and commitment in marriage, the impact of physical health on family dynamics, and practical applications for nurturing family relationships. Craig encourages listeners to engage with the book and share it with others who may benefit from its insights.

Takeaways

• The book ‘Fighting for Your Family’ is a culmination of years of personal experience.
• Craig emphasizes the importance of fighting for your family, not against them.
• Marriage is a divine gift that requires effort and commitment.
• Spiritual warfare involves battling against the flesh, the world, and the demonic.
• Leadership in the home is fundamentally about love and sacrifice.
• Commitment is essential for maintaining healthy relationships.
• Community support is vital for effective parenting.
• Physical health directly influences family dynamics and spiritual well-being.
• Intimacy in marriage is a key component of spiritual warfare.
• Practical applications, like hospitality, can strengthen family bonds.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to ‘Fighting for Your Family’

02:48The Heart Behind the Book

06:10Understanding Spiritual Warfare

09:02The Role of Leadership and Commitment in Marriage

11:49Physical Health and Its Impact on Family Dynamics

15:05Practical Applications for Family Life

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Boyd Bailey, president of the Georgia chapter of the National Christian Foundation and author of The Power of Generosity. They explore the multifaceted nature of generosity, emphasizing that it extends beyond financial contributions to include acts of kindness, hospitality, and the sharing of time and attention. Boyd shares personal stories, including the influence of his grandmother and the importance of gratitude as a foundation for a generous spirit. The conversation highlights practical ways to cultivate generosity in everyday life, the significance of community, and the alignment of one’s heart with God’s intentions for stewardship and giving. 

You can learn more abut Boyd and his devotional work at Wisdom Hunters.

Takeaways

• Generosity encompasses more than just financial giving.
• Personal stories can profoundly influence our understanding of generosity.
• Gratitude is foundational to a generous spirit.
• Hospitality is a vital expression of generosity.
• Creative acts of generosity can take many forms.
• Time and attention are valuable gifts we can offer others.
• Building community through generosity strengthens relationships.
• Generosity reflects the heart of God and aligns us with His purposes.
• Teaching children about generosity fosters family values.
• Being generous can lead to joy and fulfillment.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Generosity

02:47The Impact of Personal Stories

05:55Generosity Beyond Finances

09:06The Role of Gratitude in Generosity

12:07Hospitality as a Form of Generosity

15:08Creative Ways to Be Generous

17:51The Importance of Time and Attention

20:42Building Community Through Generosity

23:51The Heart of Generosity

25:27Generosity as a Family Value

26:20Conclusion: Aligning with God’s Heart

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the significance of joining a local church rather than merely attending. He emphasizes the accountability, community, and spiritual growth that come from being an active member of a church. The conversation explores the biblical basis for church membership, the role of the church in a believer’s life, and practical reasons for committing to a local church. Thompson encourages listeners to engage deeply with their church community, highlighting that church is not just a building but a gathering of believers committed to worship, service, and mutual support.

Takeaways

• You should join a church for the accountability it brings.
• Your excuses for not joining a church do not stand up to scripture.
• The church is made up of people, not a building.
• The church should regularly gather for worship.
• Joining a church doesn’t save you, but helps you grow spiritually.
• We can accomplish more together than we could alone.
• We expose false gospels by showing true love to one another.
• It’s not just about you; you have something to give to the church.
• The church is the bride of Christ, and we should honor it.
• You need to find a church to join, not just attend.

Sound Bites

• “We can accomplish more together than alone.”
• “We expose false gospels by showing true love.”
• “The church is the bride of Christ.”

Chapters

00:00The Importance of Church Membership

11:14Understanding the Biblical Basis for Church Membership

20:36Reasons to Join a Local Church

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson discusses the importance of defining the mission of the church amidst cultural disagreements and challenges. He emphasizes the need for Christians to resist secular influences that seek to redefine their mission, focusing on the imperatives of loving God and making disciples. The conversation explores the characteristics of modern culture, the various models of Christian engagement, and the commitment required to uphold the mission given by Christ.

Takeaways

• Do not allow those who do not understand the mission to define the mission.
• The church must resist cultural influences that contradict its mission.
• Cultural disagreements often center around sexual ethics and gender roles.
• Individualism in culture contrasts with the Christian concept of community.
• Social justice movements can conflict with biblical teachings.
• Relativism challenges the authority of Scripture.
• Consumerism undermines commitment to discipleship.
• Modern culture is characterized by self-fulfillment and self-definition.
• Christ can transform culture through the power of the Holy Spirit.
• Celebration by culture should not be the goal of Christians.

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig reflects on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the implications of violence against free speech. He discusses the cultural division in America, the importance of healthy debate, and the role of Christians in public discourse. Emphasizing the need for open conversations, Craig encourages listeners to engage with differing viewpoints while standing firm in their beliefs. He highlights the foundational role of religious freedom in American society and the responsibility of Christians to share the gospel with love and truth.

Takeaways

• Charlie Kirk was murdered because of his beliefs.
• The most sinister worldview problem is the one that seeks to eliminate free speech.
• Disagreeing with someone is often labeled as an act of violence.
• We must never allow violence to create silence.
• Healthy debates should end with handshakes and hugs.
• The freedom of religion is the foundation of free speech.
• Cultural intimidation should not limit our freedoms.
• We have a responsibility to love our neighbors as ourselves.
• We must be willing to disagree when it means speaking the truth.
• There are countless people who need to hear the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Titles

• The Cost of Speaking Truth
• Free Speech Under Fire

Chapters

00:00Reflections on Violence and Free Speech

07:10The Role of Christians in Public Discourse

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the increasing church attendance among millennials and Gen Z and emphasizes the importance of small groups for spiritual growth and community. He encourages listeners to actively participate in small groups to foster relationships, accountability, and deeper understanding of God’s Word. The conversation highlights the need for connection within the local church and the invaluable role small groups play in the Christian journey.

Takeaways

• Millennials and Gen Z are now the most regular churchgoers in the U.S.
• The average church attendance for those under 40 is less than 23 times a year.
• Getting plugged into a small group is essential for spiritual growth.
• Small groups provide community, accountability, and encouragement.
• Jesus invested in small groups for effective ministry and discipleship.
• Active participation in small groups enhances personal growth.
• Building relationships in small groups leads to deeper understanding of faith.
• The Christian life is meant to be lived out in community.
• Local churches are vital for the propagation of the gospel.
• Encouraging others to join small groups can help them grow in faith.
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Chapters

00:00The Rise of Church Attendance Among Young Generations

02:51The Importance of Small Groups in Spiritual Growth

06:08Building Community and Accountability in Small Groups

08:59Investing in Your Small Group Experience

11:52Connecting Small Groups with Local Churches

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig talks with David Mathis, a senior teacher and executive editor at Desiring God to discuss David’s new book, A Little Theology of Exercise. The conversation covers David’s journey in integrating physical exercise with his Christian faith, emphasizing the importance of caring for our bodies as a means to serve God and others. Mathis shares personal experiences that led him to write A Little Theology of Exercise’ and explores how physical health impacts spiritual well-being. The conversation delves into the theology of the body, the dangers of Gnosticism, and the significance of exercise in enhancing mental clarity and emotional health.

Takeaways

• David emphasizes the importance of integrating physical exercise with spiritual life.
• Exercise can enhance mental clarity and emotional well-being.
• Morning routines can significantly impact one’s day and productivity.
• Finding the right time for exercise is crucial for consistency.
• Physical health is closely linked to spiritual health.
• Leaning into challenges can lead to personal growth and resilience.
• The body is a significant aspect of Christian theology and should be cared for.
• Gnosticism presents a false dichotomy between body and soul.
• Exercise should serve the purpose of enabling us to love and serve others better.
• Understanding the story of our bodies is essential for holistic health.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to David Mathis

03:54The Journey to Writing a Theology of Exercise

09:51The Connection Between Physical and Spiritual Health

16:05Finding the Right Time for Exercise

21:42Practical Exercise Tips and Theological Insights

25:47Fitness for Service: Balancing Exercise and Life

27:00The Importance of Being Ready for Good Works

29:52Long-Term Fitness Goals vs. Immediate Benefits

33:57Leaning into the Hill: Overcoming Obstacles

38:52The Significance of the Body of Christ

46:17The Connection Between Body and Soul

56:32Understanding Our Bodies in the Christian Narrative