TGC Podcast

Loving others and communicating respectfully across differences isn’t easy—sometimes it’s not even something we want to do. It’s far more comfortable to stay in circles of sameness than to engage those with different beliefs, backgrounds, and perspectives. In this breakout session from TGC’s 2024 Women’s Conference, Vanessa Hawkins explains how growing in cross-cultural competence is not just helpful for communication—it’s a key part of our spiritual formation as disciples of Christ.

Ligon Duncan, a prominent pastor and theologian known for his insights on the pastoral epistles, encourages a return to foundational teachings in church ministry. He critiques the dangers of theological liberalism and disconnected methodologies. Duncan emphasizes the importance of enduring faithfulness, studying diligently, and fostering gospel community. He reflects on the loneliness in ministry while urging perseverance and boldness in sharing one’s faith. His insights highlight God’s grace as a source of strength amid challenges, reaffirming the significance of Scripture in the Christian life.

K. Edward Copeland, a speaker from TGC's 2009 National Conference, delves into the challenges facing gospel-centered ministry. He stresses the dangers of self-centeredness and superficial godliness infiltrating the church. Copeland highlights the urgency of proclaiming truth amid societal distractions and warns against performance-based ministry. He urges pastors to embrace the Holy Spirit's power, emphasizing the need for discernment against false teachings while remaining committed to authentic gospel communication.

In this insightful discussion, Philip Ryken, a speaker from the 2009 TGC National Conference, emphasizes the power of the Holy Spirit in pastoral ministry. He encourages ministers to uphold sound doctrine amidst trials, highlighting Paul's resilience and Onesiphorus's courage. Ryken stresses the importance of perseverance, mentorship, and the gospel's integrity. He draws parallels between military dedication and ministry commitments, urging a focus on spiritual duties. Ultimately, he reassures pastors of God's unwavering faithfulness, especially in challenging times.

John Piper, a respected pastor and theologian, encourages believers to 'fan into flame' their God-given gifts in a powerful discussion on 2 Timothy 1:1-12. He emphasizes the importance of courage and love in sharing the gospel, urging listeners to overcome fear and shame. Drawing from personal experiences and biblical examples, Piper explores how grace empowers faith amidst trials and highlights the profound impact of familial influence on spiritual journeys. Ultimately, he calls for resilience and unwavering commitment in the face of challenges.

In this insightful discussion, Ann Voskamp, an author and speaker renowned for her emphasis on gratitude and grace, reveals how to cultivate joy regardless of circumstances. She shares touching stories, including the challenges faced by her daughter, and emphasizes the importance of viewing each day as a 'grace day.' Voskamp highlights the transformative power of gratitude, illustrating how it reshapes perspectives and strengthens faith, even amidst adversity. Through personal anecdotes, she inspires listeners to embrace thankfulness, fostering a deeper connection with faith.

Megan Brown, an Air Force military spouse and Bible teacher, teams up with Hunter Beless, a former Army spouse, to explore the unique challenges faced by military families. They share their personal stories and emphasize the importance of community and faith amidst the demands of military life. Their discussion includes insights on how the local church can support military families and the impact of fostering connections through prayer and active participation in the Great Commission, even during deployments.

Elissa Yukiko Weichbrodt, an associate professor at Covenant College, and Missie Branch, a co-host of the Women and Work podcast from Philadelphia, discuss the complexities of work for Christian women. They explore how work reflects being made in God's image while navigating family responsibilities. The conversation covers the intrinsic value of all work, the importance of rest, and highlights inspiring biblical role models like Priscilla and Dorcas. They challenge misconceptions about women in the workforce, emphasizing faith in every professional calling.

Tim Keller, co-founder of The Gospel Coalition and former pastor in New York City, dives deep into the challenges of gospel ministry. He discusses the confrontation of cultural and personal idols, illustrating how they distort our lives and relationships with God. Highlighting insights from Acts 19, Keller emphasizes that true transformation comes from the gospel’s ability to expose these idols. He urges pastors to actively address idolatries of modern life, revealing the indispensable role of Christ’s sacrifice in overcoming sin and disruption.

In his keynote message from TGC25, David Platt unpacks Ephesians 6:10–20, urging believers to recognize the reality and intensity of spiritual warfare and highlighting how Satan attacks our emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. He exhorts the church to stand firm by putting on the full armor of God—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, the Word, and prayer—and emphasizes that our strength comes not from ourselves but from Christ’s resurrection power at work in us.Platt closes with a call to pray fervently for others, worship boldly, and press forward in gospel mission, grounded in spiritual intimacy with Jesus.