Things That Matter

Studying the Bible: How do we do that? Where do we start? How do we understand the historical context of the Bible? Andy Deane, Director of Calvary Chapel Bible College in Murrieta, CA, shares insight on approaching a study time in God’s Word without feeling overwhelmed. Enjoy this episode as Andy shares different ways to study the Bible with the ultimate blessing of deepening our relationship with Jesus. Andy has also written a book titled, “Learn to Study the Bible,” where he gives 40 different approaches to study God’s Word. Andy closes by sharing exciting news of CCBC Murrieta obtaining accreditation in the near future!

Enjoy this episode of “Things That Matter” as host Pastor Brian Brodersen shares many laughs with guest comedian Nazareth Rizkallah. Having grown up in the Gaza Strip and moved to the U.S. as a young man, Nazareth shares his testimony that brought Him to salvation. He uniquely provides insight to the tension between Israel and Palestine and how the Lord opened the opportunity to minster to refugee families through the ministry he leads called Voice of the Refugees. Nazareth closes by sharing many stories of God miraculously changing his situation and has since written a book titled, “Hope in 24 Hours” that is based on these experiences.

Whether involved in full-time ministry or not, it is vital as believers to understand the importance of both the power of the Gospel and the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. On this episode of “Things That Matter,” Pastor Ray Bentley of Maranatha Chapel talks about this important topic and uses powerful examples from Pastor Chuck Smith, Billy Graham and even in his own experience. Both he and host Pastor Brian Brodersen discuss the dynamics of church planting, Bible teaching and the power of the Holy Spirt that you will not want to miss!

As a pastoral leader, have you thought about retirement, the future of your church, succession? On this episode of “Things That Matter,” Pastor Brian Brodersen talks with Pastor Dave Rolph of Calvary Chapel Pacific Hills, CA, about pastoral transitions and succession of ministry. Dave shares that those in pastoral leadership should not be afraid to plan for retirement and ignore the practicality of life until Jesus' imminent return. While we look forward to eternity, Dave invites pastors to consider the future of their local church. “A church has always been identified by the community in church history, not by its pastor,” Dave shares. He then closes by reminding leaders that succession and transition does not mean they can no longer participate in ministry. Rather, it opens opportunities for other projects in ministry that could not happen if tied by that leadership role.

Engaging the culture is vital as a believer to listen and understand the struggles of the community as we share the gospel message and seek to be available to minister. Pastor Tommy Cota of Hope Alive Church in Santa Ana, CA, shares his experience with God opening doors in Santa Ana through school programs like Released Time Education, a contract with the Department of Education and more that have led to connections and relationships with people in the community. He gives a powerful message that proclaims the need for continual engagement and ministry to the inner cities.

Marijuana. Is it good for you? What impact does it have on your brain? Does it contain a nutritional value? Is there an answer in the Bible that addresses Marijuana? Pastor Brian Brodersen discusses these questions with Dr. Lu Wing as the U.S. culture is becoming infused with legalized Marijuana use. Dr. Wing, a practicing toxicologist, scientist and pastor, addresses the medical, recreational and Biblical perspectives on this topic that you will not want to miss on this episode of "Things That Matter!"

As a pastor’s wife, do you feel a burden of perfection in your ministry and home life? Enjoy this episode of Things That Matter as Pastor Brian Brodersen interviews his wife, Cheryl Brodersen, on being a pastor’s wife. Cheryl breaks down the difference between “identity" and “role” and encourages women, whether as a pastor’s wife or not, to place their identity in Jesus Christ alone. Once He is placed as the central focus, life and ministry begin to flow.

Welcome to season three of Things That Matter. We pray that you are encouraged as we start a new topic-driven season. We begin our first episode with Pastor Brian Brodersen interviewing Patrick Johnstone. Patrick is the author of Operation World, which is a compilation of data on missions from around the globe. This book provides valuable information as a reference and guide for prayer. Patrick expounds on the origin of Operation World and provides a missional-focused presentation of modern Christianity and modern missions. He says, “The only ministry left to us to make an impact is to deeply influence a handful of people to become effective leaders in their own culture."

As we close season two of “Things That Matter,” Pastor Brian Brodersen and Pastor Kellen Criswell of the Calvary Global Network (CGN) discuss the work God is doing around the world. From topics on different versions of adversity, missiology, and various types of leadership development, Pastors Brian and Kellen close the season by sharing that while the world and its challenges differ from even 20 years ago, we as believers are still called to fulfill the Great Commission and need to continue to seek the Lord on practical ways of doing so. We hope you have enjoyed season two of “Things That Matter,” and we look forward to the opportunities ahead in season three at the start of the new year.

Enjoy this episode of “Things That Matter” on podcast, featuring Pastor Daniel Fusco of Crossroads Community Church in the Pacific Northwest. Pastor Brian Brodersen and Daniel discuss the challenges God presents to us in ministry. Daniel shares how God took him from being a hedonist, young college student to a church planter. He also shares how God led him to connect with Pastor Bill Ritchie to transition into pastoring Crossroads. Daniel closes by explaining how God has opened opportunities to apply practical ministry to reach the culture and community surrounding Crossroads.