What if the true essence of masculinity has been misconceived all along? Join us on this enlightening episode as the Lion Crew—Corey, Adam, and Jon—redefine what it means to be a man through the lens of scripture. We challenge conventional views and stereotypes by turning to the life of Jesus as the ultimate model of virtue. Embracing attributes such as humility, service, and sacrificial love, we invite you to explore how these qualities contrast sharply with traditional figures like King David and Samson, who are often celebrated for their physical strength.

Our conversation takes a candid look at how societal norms shape perceptions of masculinity, drawing parallels to modern cultural icons like Andrew Tate and Jocko Willink. We argue for a more inclusive understanding that celebrates emotional expression and vulnerability alongside strength and resilience. By examining both scriptural teachings and personal stories, we illustrate how this reimagined masculinity can transform relationships, particularly marriage, by emphasizing the power of sacrificial love and mutual respect. Through teachings from Ephesians 5, we underscore the importance of equal partnership and true leadership in nurturing deep, transformative relationships.

Finally, this episode extends an invitation to embody one's beliefs through love and service, reflecting Christ's love not just within family dynamics but also in wider community interactions. By focusing on themes of compassion, connection, and grace, we discuss how these values can foster spiritual growth and genuine transformation, both personally and collectively. As we wrap up, we share our mission to inspire listeners to live a Christ-centered life and appreciate any support that helps further this cause.

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Is grace a luxury only for those who don't lead? Today, we tackle the nuanced reality of fallen church leaders, especially those who have reached celebrity status. With figures like Carl Lentz in mind, we confront the often quick judgment that comes with leadership failures. We underscore the importance of empathy and understanding, acknowledging the personal demons leaders might wrestle with, from addiction to mental health issues. By revisiting their significant contributions, we challenge the notion that their entire legacy should be discarded due to their shortcomings, urging listeners to extend grace as they would hope to receive.

The journey of redemption isn't one-size-fits-all, and we lay bare the complex paths of restoration and accountability in ministry. Context is key, and we differentiate between various transgressions, exploring how genuine repentance can pave the way for healing. Through real-life examples, we balance truth with grace, emphasizing the need for thoughtful rehabilitation. We don't shy away from hard truths, but we focus on crafting a redemptive narrative that acknowledges failure without excusing it, offering a space for those who genuinely seek restoration.

A crucial part of preventing downfalls lies in authentic accountability. Drawing from the wisdom of the desert fathers, we highlight the dangers of placing leaders on pedestals and stress the importance of humility and community. Using cautionary tales like Carl Lentz's story, we advocate for robust support systems and spiritual formation. The conversation doesn't stop at healing; it extends to reconciliation, urging the faith community to champion leaders on their journey toward genuine transformation. Let’s foster a culture of godly sorrow and align with the gospel's mission of reconciliation, cheering on those committed to personal and spiritual growth.

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Unlock the secret to maintaining unity and love even amidst heated political debates, with Corey, Adam, and John Boy leading the charge. What if the biblical command to love our neighbors, including those with opposing political views, could transform the way we engage with politics? This episode challenges our perceptions, addressing the intersection of faith and politics, stressing that disagreement on hot-button issues like abortion and marriage doesn't translate into labeling others as evil. We promise to guide you through the complexities of political hypocrisy and Christian nationalism, offering insights into how relying on political parties as moral compasses can detract from Christ-like values.

Join our candid conversation about the importance of voting based on personal convictions rather than party lines. We explore the notion that political systems are temporary and how ultimate faith belongs not in politicians but in the enduring kingdom of God. Navigate the pressure of the two-party system and discover why love should transcend divisive political rhetoric. Hear our call to create a welcoming church environment grounded in the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, advocating for societal betterment through unity and understanding, regardless of political affiliation. Whether you're wrestling with the tension between faith and politics or striving for a more loving and inclusive community, this episode offers a pathway forward.

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What if the roles of teachers, prophets, and evangelists in the church are more than just titles? Join us as we unravel the spiritual gifts behind these roles, delving into their true purposes and debunking common misconceptions. We'll explore how these gifts aim to foster unity and maturity within the body of Christ, referencing powerful scriptures like Ephesians 4 and 1 Corinthians 12.

Throughout our discussion, we shine a spotlight on the often underappreciated role of teachers in ministry. Teachers help simplify complex spiritual concepts, driving profound growth and understanding within their communities. Reflecting on Jesus' unparalleled teaching through parables, we emphasize how His methods made deep spiritual truths accessible to everyone, illustrating the critical function of teaching in faith development.

Balancing evangelism with discipleship is another key theme we tackle, using biblical references to highlight the importance of each role in holistic spiritual growth. We also address the contemporary challenges of recognizing and using prophetic gifts effectively, stressing the necessity of humility, discernment, and alignment with the fruits of the Spirit. This episode promises to equip you with a deeper understanding of these spiritual gifts and how they can be gracefully integrated into the life of the church.

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What does it mean to truly embody the gifts of the five-fold ministry? Discover the profound insights behind Paul's teachings in Ephesians 4 as we kick off Season Two of the "We Are Lions" podcast. We begin with a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated listeners and share an exciting new way for you to partner with us. This episode sets the stage for our two-part series on the five-fold ministry—apostle, prophet, pastor, teacher, and evangelist—and their roles in building a robust church community.

Ever wondered how Apostle Paul balanced self-recognition and external validation in his ministry? We dive deep into the unique calling of apostles, exploring both historical and modern contexts. You'll hear thought-provoking discussions on the apostolic gifting, its multifaceted nature, and the critical role of raising and discipling future leaders. With insights from Pastor Jeremy Graham and the influential work of Damon Thompson, we unravel the complexities of this vital ministry function and its impact on the church's mission.

Misconceptions about pastoral leadership abound in modern Western churches, and we aim to set the record straight. Through personal stories and wisdom from "The Complete Wineskin" by Harold Eberle, we'll redefine what it means to be a true pastor. Emphasizing genuine care, humility, and theological training, this episode challenges the conventional view of pastoral roles, advocating for a balanced and community-focused approach. Join us for an enriching conversation that not only highlights the importance of aligning with your spiritual gifts but also fosters a unified and strong church community.

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Today's Episode: Why Theology Matters

When Pastor Cole Burks took the helm at Resting Place Church, he never imagined the profound transformation his community—and his own faith—would undergo. This episode, we're joined by the insightful pastor from Knoxville, who guides us through the intertwining paths of personal belief and collective identity. Get ready to witness a narrative of hope and change, as we uncover the story behind a church's evolution from its dwindling numbers to a congregation reborn with a deeper, more introspective mission.

The theological ground beneath our feet isn't as solid as some might have you believe—it shifts, grows, and challenges us to reexamine our inherited doctrines. Throughout our discussion, we lace humor with earnest introspection, considering how well-worn our own theological "baseball gloves" are. Pastor Burks and The Lion Crew navigate the tricky waters of doctrine and belief, emphasizing how true faith isn't about adhering to rigid dogma, but instead, about fostering a living, breathing relationship with the divine that is as concerned with justice as it is with spirituality.

In the grand tapestry of Christianity, what threads hold us together? This episode draws on Pastor Burks' stories and our shared experiences to answer that question, examining how our views of God shape every human interaction we have. We talk about the transformative power of incarnational theology—living out the Gospel with hands and feet, not just with our words. Join us as we explore what it means to have a faith that not only guides, but also serves, and in doing so, challenges us to reflect the image of God in the most authentic way possible.

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Ever found yourself wondering how to stay true to your goals while navigating the complexities of life and faith? Prepare to have your perspective shifted as we unpack the essential role of accountability, not only for correcting missteps but as a catalyst for personal potential and growth. We're laying it all out - the struggles with healthy living, the pivotal shift from punitive to supportive accountability, and the alignment of daily choices with life's larger visions.

Joined by special guests, we're bringing personal stories from the frontlines of church planting and ministry, exploring how accountability is deeply embedded in the Christian journey. Host, Cory, discusses him and Jess delving into the challenges of comparison, setting personalized benchmarks, and the strength found in partnership. We examine how these principles have steered their path and can help illuminate yours, whether in leadership, personal finance, or staying true to your mission.

To wrap things up, we don't shy away from the hard truths. We address the risks of pedestals and the beauty of grace-filled restoration. Reflecting on Jesus’ teachings, we highlight the need for humility in leadership and the transformative power of understanding and inclusivity. Join us for an honest, heart-to-heart conversation that promises to inspire and guide you towards honoring God's vision for your life and community.

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Have you ever walked away from a place meant for sanctuary with a heart heavier than when you entered? You're not alone. Our latest episode is a raw and empathetic journey through the often-unspoken pain of church hurt. We open up about the delicate task of healing from wounds inflicted not by faith, but by fellow believers. Throughout the discussion, we pull from the well of our own pastoral experiences, sharing insights and stories that shine a light on the path towards restoration and growth within the church body.

Churches, at their core, are communities built on human connections, yet the balance between managing an organization and nurturing souls can be a precarious one. We candidly address the challenges faced by church leadership, from the dangers of reducing members to mere metrics to the risks of letting institutional goals overshadow individual spiritual needs. In these moments, we stress the importance of empathy in leadership, recounting how a shift in perspective can transform the way we guide and engage with our congregations, steering us closer to an authentically people-focused mission.

Our conversation ultimately circles back to the individual, exploring how each of us can reframe hurt to foster healing and growth. We speak to the complexities of forgiveness and boundaries, emphasizing that sometimes, the healthiest choice is to chart a new spiritual course. This episode isn't just a dialogue; it's an invitation to a journey of empathy, healing, and hope, reminding each listener of their value within the church and beyond. Join us as we navigate these waters, offering a prayer for understanding, reconciliation, and the transformation of adversity into a force for good within God's kingdom.

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