In this episode of Transforming the Church podcast, Pastor Derwin Gray explores neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to rewire itself—and how Scripture can transform our thought patterns. He explains that by consistently meditating on God's Word and replacing lies with biblical truth, we can literally change our brain's neural pathways, moving from patterns of fear and shame to peace and joy. Gray emphasizes that Romans 12:2's call to "renew your mind" isn't just spiritual advice but aligns with neuroscience, showing that repeated Scripture meditation creates new mental "grooves" that reshape how we think and live. Through practical steps like Scripture rehearsal, meditation, and replacement of negative thoughts, believers can experience genuine transformation as the Holy Spirit uses God's truth to rewire their minds.

What You'll Learn:

1. Your brain can change through God's Word Neuroplasticity proves that your brain isn't fixed—it can form new connections and pathways. Scripture is a powerful tool God uses to rewire our thinking patterns.

2. Meditation on Scripture creates new mental pathways Just like repeated practice in football created muscle memory for Pastor Gray, consistently meditating on God's truth creates new "grooves" in your brain that replace old patterns of fear, shame, and negativity.

3. Replace lies with biblical truth When negative thoughts arise (like "I'm not good enough" or "God can't love me"), actively replace them with Scripture. For example, counter "I'm worthless" with "I am God's masterpiece" (Ephesians 2:10).

4. Three practical steps to renew your mind

1. Scripture rehearsal: Pick one verse weekly and repeat it throughout the day
2. Scripture meditation: Spend 5 minutes sitting with one verse, letting it sink in
3. Scripture replacement: When negative thoughts hit, immediately replace them with God's truth

5. Transformation takes time and repetition Renewal doesn't happen overnight. Just as it took years to develop negative thought patterns, it takes consistent practice to rewire your brain with God's truth—but the Holy Spirit empowers this transformation.

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.

Summary: 

Have you ever felt trapped by labels that don't truly define you? Pastor Derwin unpacks how our identity in Christ transforms everything—from marriages to careers to life's toughest valleys. Through powerful insights into being "in Christ," he reveals how God's grace gives us a new identity that's unshakeable. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 5:17, he shows how we're not just slightly improved versions of ourselves, but entirely new creations. Whether you're wrestling with performance pressure or people-pleasing, this message offers practical steps to live from your true identity. Don't miss this life-changing perspective on who you really are in Christ!

In This Episode You Will Learn:

1. Identity shapes how you live Your beliefs about who you are directly influence your decisions, relationships, and ability to handle life's challenges. False identities lead to exhaustion, fear, and shame.

2. What "in Christ" really means Being "in Christ" means Jesus lived the perfect life you couldn't live, died the death you deserved, and rose again—giving you a completely new identity and location spiritually at the Father's right hand.

3. Three common false identities to avoid:

• The Performance ID (I am what I achieve)
• The People Pleaser ID (I am what others think of me)
• The Pain ID (I am what I've been through)

4. Your true identity in Christ includes:

• You are God's beloved child (adopted into His family)
• You are completely forgiven (no condemnation)
• You are empowered (the resurrection power lives in you)
• You are sent on mission (saved for something, not just from something)

5. Three daily practices to live from your true identity:

• Preach the gospel to yourself daily
• Pray your identity (turn truths into prayers)
• Practice your identity (forgive because you're forgiven, love because you're loved)

QUOTES

• "Identity shapes destiny"
• "You'll never live beyond what you believe about yourself"
• "Your past sins does not define you. God's grace does"
• "You're not just saved from something, you're saved for something"

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.

Summary:

What does true Christian community look like in a world divided by caste and class? Pastor Derwin's powerful conversation with Bishop Joseph reveals how the Gospel confronts systemic injustice in India's churches, where separate communion cups and graveyards still divide believers by caste. Through poignant stories of transformation among India's most marginalized people, Bishop Joseph shares how authentic Christian love dismantles barriers and unleashes the Holy Spirit's power. His vision of "a billion Christian communities" where people belong before they believe offers hope for healing our fractured world. Don't miss this challenging message about building bridges through Christ's revolutionary love.

Key Moments:

1. A critique of a limited Gospel that focuses solely on personal salvation, neglecting the broader message of reconciliation and justice.
2. Bishop D'Souza shares his journey into advocating for a casteless faith community and addressing the issue of human scavenging.
3. The resistance faced from both church leaders and upper caste Hindus, emphasizing the power dynamics and the cost of advocating for justice.
4. The Holy Spirit's work among the oppressed and the importance of love and community in embodying the Gospel.

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.

In this episode, Pastor Derwin Gray interviews N.T. Wright about his new book on the Book of Ephesians, exploring its profound theological insights and practical implications for the church today. Dr. Wright emphasizes the importance of understanding Ephesians within its 1st century context to grasp its vision of the church as a unified, multiethnic family that embodies God's new creation. They discuss the role of spiritual warfare and the armor of God, highlighting the church's responsibility to model unity and humanity in a divided world. The conversation underscores the transformative power of Ephesians in shaping believers' identities and actions in alignment with God's purposes.

In This Episode You Will Learn:

1. The significance of interpreting the Bible through the 1st century Second Temple Jewish context to understand its original meaning and relevance today.
2. Insights from N.T. Wright on the Book of Ephesians as a concise summary of Paul's theology, offering a visionary perspective on God's purposes.
3. The concept of the church as a "small working model of new creation," called to display God's intentions for unity and diversity.
4. The role of spiritual warfare and the armor of God in Ephesians 6, emphasizing the church's engagement in the ongoing battle against dark powers.
5. The importance of the church as a multiethnic family, reflecting the unity and diversity intended by God, and serving as a healing presence in a divided world.
6. How Ephesians can transform believers' identities and actions, empowering them to live out their faith in alignment with God's vision for humanity.

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.

What does true transformation look like in a world scarred by systemic oppression? In this powerful dialogue between Pastor Derwin and Archbishop Joseph, we discover how India's ancient caste system reveals the devastating impact of theological frameworks that dehumanize God's image-bearers. Archbishop Joseph shares his remarkable journey of awakening when 500 million "untouchables" sought liberation through Christ, forcing him to radically reimagine how the Gospel speaks to those crushed by generational oppression. Rather than focusing on traditional Western evangelistic approaches emphasizing sin and the afterlife, he found that these communities needed to hear first about a loving Creator who made them in His image. This fresh perspective on the Gospel demonstrates how God's kingdom breaks down walls of prejudice and creates new communities of dignity and belonging. Through their conversation, we see how Jesus' message of grace dismantles both American racism and Indian casteism, calling the Church to embody Revelation 5:9's vision of every nation, tribe, and tongue united in Christ. Their urgent challenge to us: Will we allow the Gospel to transform not just individual lives, but entire social systems that deny human dignity?

Here are a few of the practical things you’ll learn in this episode:

• Caste System in India: The episode delves into the caste system in India, explaining its origins and how it functions. It highlights the hierarchy within the caste system, from the Brahmins at the top to the untouchables or Dalits at the bottom.
• Impact of Theology on Social Structures: The discussion emphasizes how theological beliefs, particularly the doctrine of karma, underpin and perpetuate the caste system, leading to systemic oppression and dehumanization.
• Gospel's Role in Social Justice: Bishop d' Souza shares how the Gospel motivates efforts to address and dismantle the caste system. The Gospel is presented as a message of dignity and value for all people, emphasizing that all humans are created in the image of God.
• Reframing the Gospel Message: The episode discusses the need to reframe the Gospel message for the Dalits, focusing on God's love and presence in the present life rather than solely on the afterlife.
• Community and the Church: The importance of creating a casteless, inclusive church community is highlighted as a demonstration of the Gospel's power to break down social barriers.
• Transformation through the Gospel: The conversation underscores that the Gospel not only forgives sins but also creates a diverse family united in Christ, challenging racism and casteism as demonic forces.

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.

What if the path to true greatness is not just following your own ambitions but uncovering the treasure within you by embracing humility? In this episode, Pastor Derwin Gray invites us to reflect on the transformative journey of the church, emphasizing that it isn't about buildings or denominations but about the love that ignites the hearts of those redeemed by Christ. Through personal anecdotes from his life—like overcoming entitlement in high school football and the importance of respecting teammates in the NFL—Pastor Derwin passionately illustrates how a mindset of humility, servanthood, and accountability can propel us forward. He urges the audience to break free from the chains of arrogance and to stand out by contributing positively to their communities. As you navigate your spiritual journey, this message will help you recognize the grace that underlies every challenge, enabling growth and connection with God.

Here are a few of the practical things you’ll learn in this episode:

1. Reject Entitlement: Recognize entitlement as a destructive force that can hinder personal growth and the work of God in your life. Approach every opportunity and responsibility as a gift of God's grace, and remember that you are part of a larger community.
2. Embrace Humility: Follow the example of Jesus, who embodied humility and servanthood. Be willing to serve in any capacity, understanding that true leadership is rooted in humility and a willingness to serve others.
3. Stand Out, Don’t Fit In: Instead of conforming to negative cultural norms, strive to stand out by leading with integrity and excellence. Respect others, but prioritize being the best version of yourself, even if it means going against the grain.
4. Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Be open to learning and receiving constructive criticism. Avoid arrogance and defensiveness, and instead, view feedback as an opportunity for growth. Continuously seek to improve and develop your skills and character in alignment with Christ’s example.

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.

What does it take to stand firm in your faith amidst the challenges of an Ivy League law school? In this compelling episode of Transforming the Church Podcast, Pastor Derwin is joined by his son, Jeremiah, who shares his inspiring journey from being a promising football player to a dedicated law student at UPenn. Through thought-provoking conversation, they explore how Jeremiah's faith was shaped through pivotal experiences, such as a transformative Bible class and encouragement from mentors. Pastor Derwin connects with the audience by emphasizing the importance of investing in the spiritual development of our children, encouraging families to pray for positive influences in their lives. The discussion doesn’t shy away from the loneliness many Christians face in secular environments and how meaningful relationships can create a supportive community. As Jeremiah shares how he seeks to embody Christ's love and shine a light in a challenging space, he invites listeners to reflect on their own paths. Don’t miss this chance to be inspired by their story of faith and transformation. Tune in and discover how God can use us to make a difference wherever we are!

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.

In this podcast episode, Pastor Derwin Gray emphasizes the importance of ministry leaders being closely connected to Jesus in order to lead effectively. He discusses the conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, highlighting how Jesus defies social norms to restore dignity and share the gift of living water with her. Pastor Derwin encourages leaders to cultivate relationships, sow seeds of the gospel, and be a compassionate presence in the lives of those who are hurting. Ultimately, he calls for the church to embody a multi-ethnic community that actively shares the love of Jesus with the world.

Here are a few of the practical things you’ll learn in this episode:

• Engage with Compassion and Kindness: Just as Jesus approached the Samaritan woman with kindness and offered her the gift of living water, we should engage with others compassionately. This means approaching people with love and offering them the hope and grace found in Jesus, rather than judgment.

• Be Present in People's Lives: Jesus was present in the midst of people's messes and hurts. We are called to be a peaceful presence among those who are hurting, offering them the healing and love that comes from Christ. This involves being willing to enter into difficult situations and relationships with grace and understanding.

• Embrace Honesty and Repentance: The sermon emphasizes the importance of being honest about our struggles and sins. God can only heal the true version of us, which requires repentance and transparency. This means acknowledging our past and seeking healing through Christ.

• Participate in God's Mission: The message encourages us to join God in His mission rather than asking Him to join ours. This involves being active in sharing the gospel, sowing seeds of faith, and being part of the harvest by leading others to Christ. It’s about aligning our lives with God’s purpose and mission.

• Break Down Barriers: Jesus broke down cultural, racial, and gender barriers by speaking to the Samaritan woman. We are called to do the same by reaching out to people from different backgrounds and communities, promoting unity and reconciliation in the body of Christ.

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.

In this sermon, Pastor Derwin Gray emphasizes the importance of recognizing the church as a community of believers rather than just a physical structure or institution. He highlights the mission of the church to reach lost people, asserting that evangelism should be prioritized over societal issues like healthcare and justice. Using the narrative of Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman, he underscores the need to break down barriers of race and gender and affirm the dignity of all individuals. Ultimately, Pastor Derwin encourages listeners to experience joy through participating in God’s mission to bring people to Christ, framing evangelism as a loving invitation rather than a judgment.

Here are a few of the practical things you’ll learn in this episode:

• Cross-Cultural Mission: Follow Jesus' example by reaching across cultural and racial barriers to share the gospel.
• Affirm Dignity: Engage with others by affirming their dignity, as Jesus did with the Samaritan woman.
• Prioritize Evangelism: Focus on reaching lost people and view evangelism as an invitation to a relationship with Christ.
• Find Joy in Mission: Experience joy by participating in God's mission to save the lost.
• Trust the Evangelism Process: Understand that evangelism involves preparing, planting, and harvesting, with God giving the increase.
• Live Out the Gospel: See all aspects of life as opportunities to worship and glorify God.

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.

In this episode of the Transforming the Church Podcast, Pastor Derwin Gray shares insights on maintaining health as a ministry leader. This is the third part of the series "What I Wish I Would Have Known Before I Became a Pastor." Pastor Derwin discusses the importance of taking sabbaticals, establishing a weekly Sabbath, having mentors, peers, and mentees, and staying physically fit. These practices are essential for sustaining a healthy ministry and personal life, allowing leaders to serve effectively and joyfully.

Here are a few of the practical things you’ll learn in this episode:

• Sabbatical and Study Breaks: Pastor Derwin emphasizes the importance of taking extended breaks, such as a seven-week summer sabbatical, to recharge and prepare for future ministry work. These breaks are not just for rest but also for spiritual renewal and planning, allowing leaders to be proactive and organized.
• Weekly Sabbath: A weekly Sabbath is a day of delight and rest, not boredom. It’s a time to engage in activities that refresh the soul, such as hobbies or spending time in nature. Pastor Derwin shares his personal practice of fishing on his Sabbath, which reinvigorates his spirit.
• Mentorship and Community: Having mentors (a "Paul"), peers (a "Barnabas"), and mentees (a "Timothy") creates a cycle of learning and teaching that enriches personal and spiritual growth. Mentors provide wisdom and experience, peers offer mutual support, and mentees allow leaders to pass on their knowledge.
• Physical Fitness: Staying physically fit is crucial for mental health and overall well-being. Resistance weight training, in particular, helps maintain mental clarity and emotional stability. Pastor Derwin shares his journey of rediscovering the importance of physical fitness after his NFL career and how it benefits his ministry.
• Living from Affirmation: Leaders should live from the affirmation of being loved and approved by God, rather than seeking approval through their work. Understanding that righteousness comes from Christ allows leaders to serve from a place of grace and security.

PODCAST RESOURCES

• More from Derwin: www.derwinlgray.com and www.transformationchurch.tc/podcast

• Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

• Subscribe on Spotify

• Subscribe on YouTube

• Subscribe on Amazon Music

• The ChurchLeaders Podcast Network

CONNECT WITH DERWIN

• Facebook: www.facebook.com/derwinlgray

• Instagram: @derwinlgray

RATE, LEAVE A REVIEW, & SHARE

If you’ve been impacted by this podcast, please leave a rating and a review, and share with someone in your life.