Stand Firm Parents

In this insightful episode, Stand Firm Parents host Jake McCandless explores Israel’s significance in the Bible and its impact on our children's faith. Jake, passionate about helping families build a resilient faith foundation, addresses why understanding Israel matters deeply in today's world, especially amidst rising anti-Semitism and the complex portrayal of Israel in current events.   Key Takeaways: - Why Discuss Israel with Our Kids?     Jake explains the historical and theological relevance of Israel throughout the Bible, encouraging parents to equip their children with a clear understanding of its role in God’s plan. This understanding helps children navigate a world where they may encounter misinformation and conflicting viewpoints about Israel. - Responding to Modern Anti-Semitism:    Jake examines the current rise in anti-Semitism and how it's impacting families. He challenges listeners to consider the “absurdity” of worldwide anti-Israel sentiment and invites parents to help their children see beyond political rhetoric, focusing instead on God’s purposes. - Two Major Theological Questions for Parents:     1. Is God Done with Israel? Jake explores how scripture points to an ongoing role for Israel, especially in end-times prophecy.     2. How Does the Church Relate to Israel? Drawing from Romans 11, he discusses how Gentiles are “grafted into” Israel’s promises, affirming that God’s covenant with Israel is still relevant today. - Encouragement to Dive into Scripture:   Rather than relying solely on others' interpretations, Jake encourages parents to read the Bible firsthand. By doing so, they can better understand the importance of Israel and confidently address their children’s questions. Why This Episode Matters: Today’s world presents unique challenges for young believers, who may be exposed to anti-Israel sentiments on social media, in school, and beyond. Jake shares why standing with Israel aligns with God’s plan and how parents can guide their children through complex questions to build a faith that lasts. Listen to Our "Truth on Israel" Bonus Series: If you’re interested in exploring this topic further, check out Jake’s bonus series “Truth on Israel” episodes, linked in the show notes. --- Follow and Connect: Stay engaged with *Stand Firm Parents* by following on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Facebook, or the Stand Firm Ministries website. Send in your questions and comments to join the conversation as Jake and the team continue exploring how parents can support their children’s faith journey. --- Stand Firm Parents is brought to you by Stand Firm Ministries, in partnership with Lifeword Studios. Created by Jake McCandless and Brandon Harrington of Dime Collective.

In this special episode, host Jake McCandless invites his daughters, Addison and Andrea, to recount their family’s transformative journey to Israel. Together, they share memories, spiritual moments, and the profound impact this trip had on their faith. From visiting sites like the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea to experiencing the emotional weight of Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Museum, this episode provides a heartfelt exploration of faith in action. Whether you’re considering a pilgrimage to Israel or simply seeking ways to strengthen your family’s faith, this episode will inspire you. Key Takeaways: - Discovering Biblical Sites: The family visited key sites such as Capernaum, the City of David, and Hezekiah's Tunnel. Hear how these ancient places made Bible stories come alive. - Faith Deepened Through Experience: Addison and Andrea reflect on how walking where Jesus walked strengthened their faith, offering real-life proof of Biblical truths. - A Powerful Visit to Yad Vashem: The family shares their emotional experience at Israel’s Holocaust Museum and the significance of the children’s memorial. - Special Moments of Faith: Addison shares a transformative moment at the Jordan River, where she chose to be baptized, marking a new chapter in her faith journey. - Why Israel? Jake and his daughters discuss why visiting Israel can be an invaluable experience for children and families who want to strengthen their faith and connection to Biblical history. Favorite Moments: - Jake’s 'Cool Score': Addison and Andrea rate their dad’s “cool factor” in a light-hearted moment. - Learning Through Experience: The children recall small but memorable details from their trip, like riding camels and discovering Israel’s cat population. - A Vineyard’s Prophecy Fulfilled: A visit to a vineyard in Judea-Samaria, where a prophetic verse from Jeremiah comes to life, becomes an unforgettable moment for the family. Episode Highlights: - Intro & Icebreaker Questions – Get to know Jake’s daughters as they answer fun icebreaker questions, including their opinions on spaghetti versus macaroni and cheese. - Revisiting Israel’s Biblical Sites – The McCandless family recalls visiting Mount Carmel, the Dead Sea, and the Jordan River, bringing the Bible to life. - A Deeply Moving Visit to Yad Vashem – A powerful reflection on the Holocaust and the trees planted to honor the Righteous Among the Nations. - Baptism at the Jordan River – Addison’s decision to be baptized in the Jordan River serves as the episode’s spiritual climax, highlighting the personal growth and spiritual depth gained from the journey. - Why Every Family Should Go – The girls give their own advice for families considering a pilgrimage to Israel. Connect with Us: - Subscribe to Stand Firm Parents on Apple Podcasts and your favorite platforms for more episodes on strengthening your family's faith. - Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates and community support. - Share this episode with friends and family who would benefit from these inspiring stories. About Stand Firm Parents: Stand Firm Parents is a production of Stand Firm Ministries in partnership with Lifeword Studios, created by Jake McCandless and Brandon Harrington of Dime Collective. Thank you for listening – remember to subscribe, share, and stand firm in your faith.

In this powerful episode of Stand Firm Parents, Jake McCandless sits down with Todd Nettleton, the voice behind Voice of the Martyrs and host of the VOM Radio show. They explore the realities of Christian persecution worldwide, what it means for parents raising the next generation in faith, and how we can stand firm in our beliefs. Todd shares inspiring stories from persecuted Christians around the globe and offers practical ways to prepare our families for the challenges that might lie ahead. Key Takeaways: 1. Understanding Persecution: Todd explains how persecution is a biblical reality and not a distant historical issue. Christians in over 70 countries face persecution daily, and it's something that could eventually impact believers in the West. 2. Faith that Lasts: The episode focuses on how parents can help instill a resilient, lasting faith in their children by preparing them for potential persecution and teaching them to value their faith above all else. 3. Biblical Preparation: Drawing from scriptures like Matthew 24:10 and the experiences of persecuted Christians, Todd emphasizes the importance of preparing ourselves and our children spiritually for future challenges. 4. Stories of Persecuted Christians: Todd shares real-life stories of believers standing firm in the face of intense persecution, offering encouragement and insights on how these examples can strengthen our own walk with Christ. 5. Resources for Parents: Discover how you can access VOM's free resources, including the monthly magazine and the VOM Radio show, to stay informed and inspired by the global church’s endurance. 6. The Power of Prayer: With the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church approaching, Todd encourages listeners to pray for those suffering for their faith, highlighting the importance of remembering them as part of our spiritual family. Guest Information: Todd Nettleton is the Vice President of Voice of the Martyrs and host of VOM Radio. His latest book, When Faith Is Forbidden: 40 Days on the Frontlines with Persecuted Christians, offers a unique devotional experience based on real stories of persecuted believers. Resources Mentioned: - Visit Persecution.com to subscribe to VOM’s free magazine. - Download the VOM Prayer App for daily prayer requests for persecuted Christians. - Check out Todd’s book, When Faith Is Forbidden, for an intimate look at life on the frontlines of persecution. - VOM Radio Podcast: Available on major platforms for more stories and insights from the persecuted church. Call to Action: - Subscribe to the Stand Firm Parents podcast to never miss an episode. - Share this episode with others to spread awareness about Christian persecution. - Join us in prayer for the persecuted church this Sunday as part of the International Day of Prayer. Social Media: - Follow Todd Nettleton on Twitter: @VOMTodd - Stay connected with Stand Firm Ministries for updates on future episodes and resources.

In this powerful episode, host Jake McCandless dives deep into the alarming rise of global anti-Semitism and its effects on the younger generation with special guest, Charlotte Korchak, Senior International Educator at Stand With Us. Charlotte, who grew up between the U.S. and Israel, shares her unique insights into the history and modern-day challenges of anti-Semitism, particularly its manifestations on college campuses and across social media platforms like TikTok. They discuss how today's anti-Semitism has become global and pervasive, affecting Jews in unprecedented ways. Charlotte peels back the layers of this issue, comparing right-wing and left-wing forms of anti-Semitism and how both contribute to the larger problem. The conversation also touches on how Christian communities can take a stand against anti-Semitism, with practical advice for parents on teaching their children the importance of standing firm with Israel and the Jewish people. Key Topics Covered: - The rise of anti-Semitism around the world and how it compares to the 1930s and 1940s. - How anti-Semitism is impacting college campuses and why younger generations are particularly vulnerable. - The role of social media platforms like TikTok in spreading Hamas propaganda and anti-Israel sentiments. - The distinction between right-wing and left-wing anti-Semitism and how both are harmful in different ways. - How Christian parents can teach their children to stand firm with Israel and fight anti-Semitism. Guest Bio: Charlotte Korchak is the Senior International Educator at Stand With Us, where she educates and trains over 50,000 students a year about Israeli history, activism, and combating anti-Semitism. She brings a wealth of knowledge from her experiences living in both Israel and the U.S., and her passion for defending Israel and educating the world is evident in her impactful work. Memorable Quotes: - "We're facing anti-Semitism in a way we've never faced before—globally, all at once, and manifesting in similar ways across the world." - "Left-wing anti-Semitism is veiled, often framed as anti-Zionism, but it's no less dangerous." - "Christian parents can make a huge difference by educating their kids about the reality of anti-Semitism and standing firm with Israel." Resources Mentioned: - [Stand With Us](https://www.standwithus.com) - Book: *Start With Why* by Simon Sinek - Book: *How to Fight Anti-Semitism* by Barry Weiss - [International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of anti-Semitism](https://www.holocaustremembrance.com/resources/working-definitions-charters/working-definition-antisemitism)   #StandWithIsrael #CombatAntisemitism #ChristianParents #FaithThatLasts

Episode Summary: In this episode of Stand Firm Parents, host Jake McCandless takes listeners on a journey to Israel to explore the current situation on the ground. With special guests Daphne and Andrew Kirk of Generation to Generation Ministries, who have been actively supporting Israel through trips since the October 7th attacks, the episode dives into their ongoing work and the importance of standing in solidarity with Israel. The Kirks share firsthand experiences from their multiple visits to Israel, emphasizing the powerful impact of simply being present and offering comfort during such difficult times. They recount touching stories of connection and the importance of showing solidarity with the Jewish people, especially in the face of growing antisemitism. The discussion also addresses how churches often overlook Israel's current events and the need to teach the emerging generation about the biblical and modern significance of Israel. The Kirks encourage listeners to take actionable steps in their local communities by building relationships with Jewish communities, visiting synagogues, and offering words of encouragement. The episode closes with Jake highlighting future opportunities for listeners to join upcoming trips to Israel and support efforts on the ground. Key Takeaways: 1. Solidarity with Israel: Daphne and Andrew Kirk emphasize the need for standing with Israel and comforting its people, following the biblical mandate from Isaiah 40:1. 2. Personal Impact: The Kirks share moving stories of individuals they’ve encountered, from young children to parents, and how their presence offered hope and reassurance during this crisis. 3. Importance of Action: The episode encourages listeners to take simple, actionable steps, like visiting local synagogues or reaching out to Jewish communities, to show support. 4. Educational Mission: There is a crucial need to educate children and the next generation about the significance of Israel both biblically and in modern times. 5. Upcoming Trips: Jake McCandless announces future opportunities for listeners to join trips to Israel, both to show solidarity and experience biblical sites firsthand. Guest Bio: Daphne & Andrew Kirk are leaders of Generation to Generation Ministries, a global ministry focusing on discipleship and supporting Israel. They have been leading trips to Israel for over 15 years and have been a voice of encouragement and solidarity in the Jewish community. Resources Mentioned: • Visit www.G2Gmandate.org to learn more about Generation to Generation Ministries and their work in Israel. • Watch the Quest for Truth series on Israel and Gaza at G2Gmandate.org/quest-for-truth. • Stay tuned for future trips and opportunities with Stand Firm Ministries to support Israel.

In this crucial episode, host Jake McCandless delves into a topic that is shaping our children’s faith—Israel's ongoing conflict. Jake explores the profound impact that media coverage of the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel and its aftermath has on young minds. He emphasizes the influence of social media and campus protests, noting how the messaging around this conflict is heavily skewed and anti-Israel. Jake makes the case that Israel is more than a political topic—it's a spiritual battleground. Every page of the Bible relates to Israel, making its current struggles essential for understanding the biblical narrative and Christian faith. Key Discussion Points: 1. Israel in the Media and Social Media: - The widespread coverage of the Israel conflict and the influence it has on young people’s worldview. - Protests and violence in U.S. colleges, with many siding against Israel, creating a dangerous narrative. 2. Biblical Importance of Israel: - Israel as the setting of the Bible—central to both Old and New Testament teachings. - The prophetic significance of Israel in end-time events and its role in shaping Christian eschatology. 3. Parenting Through the Lens of Scripture: - How parents can raise children with a strong biblical understanding of Israel. - The importance of helping children see Israel not just as a country, but as a core part of their faith story. 4. Interviews and Perspectives: - Conversations with Daphne and Andrew Kirk from Generation 2 Generation on their experiences in Israel. - Upcoming interviews, including one with Charlotte of Stand with Israel, who provides insight into what’s happening on college campuses. 5. Future Episodes and Content: - Jake will dive deeper into the theological relationship between the church and Israel. - More episodes to come about Israel's role in the end times and what parents need to understand. Notable Scriptures: - Zechariah 12:2-3 - God's prophecy regarding Jerusalem and its importance at the end of the age. - Psalm 2 - Nations raging against Jerusalem as a part of God’s plan. Quote of the Episode: "If we discount today’s Israel and its connection to Scripture, we risk diminishing the Bible’s relevance to our children." — Jake McCandless Takeaway Message: Parents must engage in conversations with their children about Israel’s spiritual and prophetic significance. In understanding Israel, we provide our children with a deeper connection to their faith and the unfolding story of Scripture.

In this episode of Stand Firm Parents, Jake McCandless discusses the challenges and importance of being intentional about discipleship within the home. He emphasizes the need to start somewhere, even if it’s small, and shares practical advice on how to integrate faith into everyday family life. Key Discussion Points: The Overwhelm of Discipleship: Many parents feel overwhelmed by the idea of discipling their children, often leading to inaction. The importance of being intentional about guiding children in their faith. Starting Small: The episode’s main message is to "just start somewhere." Jake shares a personal story about having a Bible study in the car with his daughters, highlighting that discipleship doesn’t need to be perfect or elaborate. The Imperfection of Discipleship: Waiting for the perfect moment or method often leads to missed opportunities. Jake discusses the challenges of maintaining regular family Bible studies and how he overcame the paralysis of perfection. Practical Steps for Parents: Begin with simple actions like reading a Bible story at bedtime or having faith-based conversations. Tailor discipleship activities to the age and maturity level of the children. Integration of Faith into Everyday Life: The goal is to fully integrate faith into every aspect of family life, rather than compartmentalizing it into specific times or events. Jake emphasizes the need to find natural ways to incorporate faith discussions and practices into daily routines. Biblical Foundation: Jake references Deuteronomy 6, which instructs parents to impress God's commandments on their children throughout daily activities. The episode encourages parents to be consistent and intentional in sharing their faith with their children. Encouragement to Parents: Jake encourages parents to take the first step, regardless of where they are in their faith journey or how old their children are. The episode closes with a reminder that every intentional action taken to guide children in their faith starts with a simple step.  

In this episode of Stand Firm Parents, host Jake McCandless dives deep into the critical role that parents play in the spiritual formation and discipleship of their children. Joined by special guest Dr. Jonathan Cofer, a seasoned student pastor at Antioch Baptist Church in Conway, Arkansas, the conversation highlights the importance of parents as the primary disciple-makers in their children's lives. Key Takeaways: Family Discipleship: Dr. Cofer emphasizes that the concept of family discipleship, although often overlooked, is rooted deeply in Scripture. Parents are called to be the main spiritual leaders in their homes, guiding their children in their walk with Jesus. Scriptural Foundations: The episode unpacks several key Bible passages, such as Deuteronomy 6 and Proverbs 22, that underscore the responsibility of parents to train their children in the faith. Practical Steps for Parents: Both Jake and Dr. Cofer share practical advice for parents to begin or continue the discipleship journey at home. This includes reading Scripture together, praying as a family, and simply talking about Jesus in everyday life. The Influence of Parents: Dr. Cofer discusses the significant impact parents have on their children’s spiritual lives. He notes that while youth pastors and church leaders play a role, the influence of parents is unmatched due to the time they spend with their children and the values they model. Encouragement for Parents: The episode concludes with an encouraging message for parents to remain faithful in their role, recognizing that their efforts in discipleship, no matter how small, are vital and impactful. Quotes: "Parents are the primary disciple-makers, and we see that clearly in Scripture." "It's not about doing something extraordinary, but about being consistent and intentional in your walk with God as a family." Resources Mentioned: Book: Family Worship by Donald Whitney Follow Dr. Jonathan Cofer: Facebook Instagram Subscribe & Stay Connected: Make sure to subscribe to Stand Firm Parents on your favorite podcast platform to continue receiving valuable insights on family discipleship.

Podcast Title: Stand Firm Parents Episode Title: Parents as Disciplemakers: Discipleship Isn’t Hard Host: Jake McCandless Guests: Daphne Kirk and Andrew Kirk, Generation 2 Generation Ministry Episode Summary: In this episode of Stand Firm Parents, Jake McCandless dives into the vital role of discipleship in parenting. Jake emphasizes that giving our children a faith that lasts starts with understanding the Great Commission's call to make disciples—beginning in our own homes. He explains that while the term "discipleship" can seem daunting, it is much simpler and more integral to parenting than it might initially appear. Jake is joined by Daphne Kirk and Andrew Kirk from the ministry Generation to Generation, which focuses on reconnecting generations and preparing them for the challenges of today's world. They discuss practical ways parents can disciple their children, highlighting that every parent is discipling their children—whether consciously or not—through their passions and priorities. Key Discussion Points: Defining Discipleship in Parenting: The episode begins by addressing the varied perceptions of "giving our kids a faith that lasts." Jake suggests that using the term "disciple," as instructed in the Great Commission, helps clarify the universal mission of Christian parents. Discipleship Simplified: Daphne shares a powerful analogy from her experience in Brazil, where she compares discipleship to how parents naturally teach their children to love football (soccer). She explains that the same passion and enthusiasm parents show for sports can be applied to teaching children about faith. The Role of Passion in Discipleship: The KIRKs stress that parents inevitably disciple their children through their passions. If parents are passionately in love with Jesus, that passion will naturally overflow to their children. Practical Tips for Discipleship: The guests offer practical advice on how parents can integrate discipleship into everyday life, from sharing personal faith stories to prioritizing spiritual activities over secular ones. Impact of Israel on Faith: The episode touches on the importance of understanding Israel’s role in the Bible and how visiting Israel can profoundly impact a child's faith. Daphne shares how she prioritized taking her children to Israel before they turned 18 to help them grasp the reality of Jesus’ return and develop a strong, enduring faith.     Episode Quotes: “We’re all discipling our children, whether we realize it or not. The question is, what are we discipling them for?” - Daphne Kirk “You will disciple your children in what you're passionate about. Passion for Jesus will naturally lead to discipling them in faith.” - Daphne Kirk “We don’t parent our children to be successful on this earth; our goal is for them to be successful for eternity.” - Daphne Kirk Call to Action: Subscribe to Stand Firm Parents on your favorite podcast platform, share this episode with fellow parents, and begin taking steps to disciple your kids in the faith. Learn More: Visit Generation to Generation Ministry to learn more about their work and mission. Credits: Stand Firm Parents is a production of Stand Firm Ministries in partnership with Lifeword Studios. Created by Jake McCandless and Brendan Harrington of Dime Collective.  

Parents as Disciplemakers: Lessons from Noah & Lot Show Notes: In this episode of Stand Firm Parents host Jake McCandless dives into the biblical stories of Noah and Lot, two fathers who faced apocalyptic-like judgments. He contrasts their experiences to highlight important lessons on parenting and faith. With a focus on how we, as parents, can raise children who hold steadfast in their faith, Jake explores the different outcomes of these two families. Key Points Covered: 1. Introduction to the Theme:    - The Bible recounts two major judgments where only two families survived—Noah’s and Lot’s. Jake explores why these families were spared and what we can learn from their stories as parents aiming to guide our children in faith. 2. A Tale of Two Families:    - Noah’s family willingly walked into the ark, following his leadership with faith and unity.    - Lot’s family, in contrast, had to be dragged out of Sodom, with his wife ultimately looking back and turning into a pillar of salt. 3. The Importance of Compelling Faith:    - Noah’s life and actions compelled his family to follow him willingly. Lot, though a righteous man, didn’t instill the same level of faith and obedience in his family.    - Jake emphasizes the importance of not just guiding but compelling our children to embrace their faith willingly, drawing a powerful comparison between these two biblical accounts. 4. Parenting in Difficult Times:    - The episode ties these biblical examples to modern parenting challenges, particularly in helping children navigate their faith in an increasingly complex world. 5. New Podcast Format:    - Jake introduces a new format for the podcast, now available in both audio and video formats. He also shares updates on the new studio, partnership with Lifeword Media, and the revamped website. 6. Looking Ahead:    - Jake teases the next episode, where a guest will demystify the concept of discipleship, making it more accessible and less intimidating for parents. Resources: - Visit the new website: www.standfirministries.com for more resources and updates. - Subscribe to the podcast and follow on social media for clips and more content. Closing: Jake wraps up by reiterating the mission of Stand Firm Parents: to help families cultivate a lasting faith in their children. He encourages listeners to share the podcast, subscribe, and most importantly, continue to stand firm in their faith journey. Production Credits: - Stand Firm Parents is produced by Stand Firm Ministries in partnership with Lifeword Studios. - Created by Jake McCandless and Brandon Harrington of Dime Collective. Be sure to tune in next week as the journey continues!