Topics include the purpose of a church, importance of mentorship, characteristics like discipline and gravitas, church discipline, evangelicalism, and finding mentorship in your church. Also, a live panel on biblical fatherhood, influential encounters, church criteria, mentorship in men's lives, spiritual consistency, and a transformative fitness trainer. The discussion explores self-improvement, relationships, and avoiding spiritual 'crash diets'.
Church discipline is crucial for protecting the church and guiding individuals towards holiness.
Embrace the importance of being actively involved in a local church community for true fellowship.
Value doctrinal anchoring in American Christianity to counterbalance online distractions and trends.
Building gravitas and character requires spiritual disciplines, real fellowship, and engaging in acts of service.
Deep dives
Importance of Church and Online Christianity
The podcast episode discusses the importance of finding a decent church and the problems associated with online Christianity. It highlights the need for a strong doctrine of church and the dangers of personalized Christianity. Many people today view church as a place to hear a sermon rather than a community to be part of. This individualistic mindset leads to a lack of accountability and true fellowship. The episode emphasizes the importance of belonging to a local church and being under the care of a pastor. It also discusses the need for church discipline and the role it plays in protecting the church and guiding individuals towards holiness.
The Decline of Corporate Church Life
The rise of sensationalist revivalism and the focus on personal experience in American Christianity, particularly through figures like Charles Finney and Billy Graham, has contributed to a decline in the understanding and value of corporate church life. The podcast points out that many evangelicals today view church as a place to consume religious content rather than a community to be actively involved in. This individualistic mindset leads to a lack of commitment and accountability. The episode urges listeners to reconsider their view of church and embrace the importance of being part of a local body of believers.
The Need for Doctrinal Anchoring
The podcast highlights the need for doctrinal anchoring in American Christianity. It argues that many evangelical churches have strayed away from a solid theological foundation, focusing more on trends and personal experiences. The episode encourages listeners to value and appreciate the corporate aspects of the Christian faith, such as the reading and teaching of scripture, the practice of prayer, and the fellowship of believers. This commitment to sound doctrine and spiritual disciplines helps counterbalance the temptations of online Christianity and the distractions of cultural trends.
The Pitfalls of Online Christianity
The podcast episode warns about the dangers of online Christianity, where individuals turn to social media, podcasts, and other digital platforms as a substitute for active involvement in a local church. It emphasizes that true discipleship and growth in the Christian faith happen within the context of a community where accountability, discipline, and fellowship thrive. The episode underscores the need for individuals to prioritize their commitment to a local church and to submit to the guidance of a pastor who can provide biblical teaching, shepherding, and spiritual care.
Building Gravitas and Character
Building gravitas and character involves giving yourself to spiritual disciplines, such as reading the Bible and prayer, and having real fellowship with other believers. Through trials and experiences, you gain a sobriety and weight to your character that cannot be achieved through online resources alone. Spending time with people, helping them in their struggles, and engaging in practical acts like moving furniture or doing acts of service can shape and grow you. Time and diligence are key in building gravitas.
Seeking Mentorship and Discipleship
It is important for both men and women to actively seek out mentorship and discipleship from more mature and experienced believers. Rather than waiting for someone to approach you, take the initiative to connect with others and ask for their guidance and wisdom. This can be done by inviting yourself over for a meal or coffee, expressing the desire to learn from their experiences, and being willing to put in the time and effort to develop a relationship. Mentorship and discipleship are essential for personal growth and spiritual maturity.
Avoiding Transactional Relationships and Celebrity Culture
Avoid getting caught up in transactional relationships and the celebrity culture of social media. Instead, focus on genuine connections and serving others without expecting anything in return. Refrain from monetizing the gospel or seeking personal gain and recognition. Being content with free resources and valuing personal relationships over conferences and appearances helps maintain a genuine and humble posture as a servant of God. Prioritize building the Kingdom of God over personal success.
Michael Foster is the pastor of East River Church in Batavia, Ohio, the author (and star) of “It’s Good To Be A Man”, the host of the County Before Country Conference, plus a husband, father, podcaster, and outstanding Twitterer.
The Will Spencer Podcast is a weekly interview show featuring extended discussions with authors, leaders, and influencers who can help us make sense of our changing world today. I release new episodes every week on Friday.
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