This vs. That

On this episode of This vs. That, we sit down with Jared Wilson to explore the tension between gospel-centered and issue-driven ministry. We ask whether gospel centeredness was just another evangelical trend or if it remains essential to the DNA of healthy Christians and churches.Jared breaks down what gospel-centered ministry actually means—centering on Christ in Scripture, trusting grace for heart-level change, and finding our validation in Christ's performance rather than our own. In contrast, issue-driven ministry hinges its hope for change on cultural topics or headlines rather than the announcement of the gospel.We discuss why some have moved away from gospel centrality, exploring concerns about pragmatism and the temptation to lean on other approaches when change seems slow. Jared offers practical wisdom on how to recognize when we've drifted from gospel-centered ministry—often it starts when the gospel begins to feel perfunctory or less interesting than the cultural issue of the day.Throughout our conversation, we grapple with how to keep the gospel central when cultural issues demand our attention, and how to avoid treating the gospel like an empty Trojan rabbit—something we've forgotten to include in our ministry altogether.

On this episode of This vs. That, we explore the relationship between professional counseling and everyday counseling with Dr. Kristin Kellen, associate professor of biblical counseling at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. We discuss how these two forms of counseling exist on a spectrum, examining the differences in formality, reciprocity, and structure.We consider the biblical foundation for everyday counseling through the "one another" passages that call all believers to care for each other, while also addressing how professional counseling fits within a Christian framework. We tackle common objections to using counseling language for informal relationships and clarify definitions that help distinguish between professional therapy and everyday discipleship.We also discuss practical guidance on discerning when to seek help from your local church community versus when professional counseling may be needed. Kristin shares insights on how both levels of care can work together in a care team model, and offers wisdom on cultivating a culture of vulnerability and openness within church communities.Finally, we explore the various levels of training available for those who want to grow in their counseling abilities—from reading and observing to certificate programs and formal degrees—and how to discern when it's time to pursue further training.-----You’re going to love what our partner organization, Rode Leadership, is offering: the Pastor’s Wives Cohort — an eight-week virtual experience designed to nourish, connect, and equip women in ministry.Craving connection? Need support? Just want to breathe and grow alongside others in ministry?Sign up today at ⁠⁠rodeleadership.com/pwc⁠⁠----For more information about Anchored Virtual, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠anchoredvirtual.com

Yana Jenay Conner, a writer and Bible teacher, dives deep into the challenging yet transformative power of forgiveness. She contrasts cultural views with God's model, emphasizing that true forgiveness springs from freedom found in Christ. Yana discusses the crucial roles of grief and lament in the healing process, advocating for the acknowledgment of pain before forgiving. She also clarifies how forgiveness and accountability can coexist, promoting restoration rather than conflict. Tune in for insights on healing vs. holding on in our relationships.

On this episode of This vs. That, we sit down with Ronnie Martin, pastor and Director of Leader Care and Renewal for the Harbor Network, to explore unhurried ministry versus anxious ministry.We dig into why so many ministry leaders find themselves overextended and running ragged. Ronnie shares insights from his book "The Unhurried Pastor," co-authored with Brian Croft, which draws on Eugene Peterson's work to address the burnout epidemic in ministry today.We discuss the "superhero pastor" mentality and how pastors can actually become addicted to being everything to everybody, even while intellectually knowing it leads to burnout.We explore the unique pressures pastors face—the flexibility of their schedules, the invisible nature of much of their work, and the constant pressure to prove their worth to their congregations.We also tackle the tension of feeling like we're never doing enough while simultaneously doing too much, and how the question "what are you spending your time doing?" can feel like a shame-throwing question. Ronnie offers practical wisdom on discernment, the importance of the "holy pause" before saying yes to every request, and how to avoid unhealthy stacking of commitments.This conversation offers valuable insights for anyone in ministry—or really anyone feeling overwhelmed—about finding sustainable rhythms, practicing humility, and learning to distinguish between a full calendar and one that's suffocating us.

Darby Strickland, a counselor and faculty member at CCEF, shares her expertise on trauma and its profound effects. She emphasizes the harm of simplistic responses like suggesting time heals all wounds or questioning faith. Darby clarifies that trauma disrupts self and relationships, making the label less important than the individual experience of pain. She advocates for a ministry of presence, recommending consistent support and practical acts of care. Through scripture and community, Darby provides insights on loving trauma survivors well.

On this episode of This vs. That, we sit down with Brad Hambrick, pastor of counseling at the Summit Church in Durham, North Carolina, to discuss one of the most painful experiences a marriage can face: betrayal.We explore the tension between idealized expectations of quick healing and the reality that recovery requires an intentional, patient process. Brad shares why "rarely is the first story, the whole story" and how incomplete information at the beginning can derail restoration efforts. We discuss the importance of full disclosure versus discovery, and why marriages often die from "a death of a thousand confessions" rather than the initial betrayal itself.We examine the early stage work that must happen before forgiveness—gaining an accurate history of what occurred and assessing the unfaithful spouse's level of transparency and cooperation. Brad offers the profound insight that "there is as much hope for the marriage as there is honesty," helping us understand how to gauge realistic hope in the restoration process.Throughout our conversation, we address how helpers can better support those who've experienced betrayal, why the betrayed spouse is often the most neglected individual in these situations, and how God's character speaks to this devastating reality.-----You’re going to love what our partner organization, Rode Leadership, is offering: the Pastor’s Wives Cohort — an eight-week virtual experience designed to nourish, connect, and equip women in ministry.And just for our This Versus That listeners — there’s a super early bird deal:Get 25% off the regular $375 registration with code RODESUPER — but only through December 4th.Craving connection? Need support? Just want to breathe and grow alongside others in ministry?Sign up today at rodeleadership.com/pwc----For more information about Anchored Virtual, visit ⁠⁠anchoredvirtual.com

On this episode of This vs. That, we sit down with Trevin Wax and Thomas West to explore their new book, The Gospel Way Catechism: 50 Truths that Take On the World. We discuss how catechisms serve as powerful tools for spiritual formation and discipleship in an ever-changing culture.Trevin and Thomas share the inspiration behind their work, drawing from the influence of Lesslie Newbigin and Tim Keller's concept of counter catechesis. We explore how their catechism is designed to counter dominant cultural narratives like expressive individualism and secularism, helping believers understand not just what Christians believe, but how those beliefs stand in contrast to the way of the world.The conversation unpacks key themes from the book, including the tension between freedom and submission to God, the nature of human identity and purpose, and how catechesis equips us to shine like stars in a crooked and perverse generation. We also discuss practical applications—from teenagers navigating secular education to professionals working in luxury brand marketing—showing how the gospel way provides a lens for faithful living in any context.

On this episode of This vs. That, we explore one of the most important yet often misunderstood aspects of Christian marriage: sex. We sit down with Scott Mehl, pastor of Cornerstone Church of West LA and author of Redeeming Sex and Marriage, to discuss the difference between self-centered sex and God-centered sex.We tackle questions like: What is God's design for sex and marriage? Why does physical intimacy get complicated even in the best of marriages? And what is the larger story that sex is telling?Scott shares from his own journey—the confusion he and his wife Lauren experienced early in their marriage, and how that led him to search for what God actually says about this sensitive topic.We discuss the five purposes of sex, including how it serves as an expression of the relationship between Christ and the church.We also address the practical side: how selfishness shows up in the bedroom, why viewing sex as a "need" can be problematic, and how the gospel speaks directly to our sexual brokenness.Throughout our conversation, we emphasize that God-centered sex is ultimately spouse-focused sex—a reflection of selfless love that points us to something greater.----For more information about Anchored Virtual, visit ⁠anchoredvirtual.com

On this episode of This vs. That, we welcome Rebekah Hannah, not as our usual co-host, but as a special guest to discuss her leadership journey and the upcoming Women in Leadership cohort offered by Anchored Virtual starting in September. We explore how this cohort creates a space for women serving in various leadership roles to come together, find encouragement, and receive valuable teaching.Becca shares her diverse leadership roles - from being President and CEO of Anchored Virtual to serving as Director of Kids and Families at Redeemer Lincoln Square in New York City, teaching as an adjunct professor at Baylor University, and balancing family life with three children.We discuss the unique challenges women face in leadership, particularly in predominantly male-led spaces, and how maintaining confidence in Christ rather than position or approval from others has helped Becca navigate these environments.The conversation concludes with details about the eight-week Women in Leadership cohort starting September 10th, featuring speakers like Alicia Britt Chole, Eliza Huey, Glenna Marshall, Ellen Dykes, Elyse Fitzpatrick, Eric Schumacher, Jared Wilson, and Kelly Kapic - each addressing crucial aspects of leadership from spiritual health to navigating challenges.----Unlock your leadership potential with the Women in Leadership Cohort—an empowering 8‑week online program designed for women ready to lead with confidence. Experience weekly leadership training, mentorship, and counselor‑led small groups in a supportive community of driven women. Step into your calling, strengthen your skills, and connect with like‑minded leaders.For more information visit ⁠anchoredvirtual.com/womens-cohort⁠----We're really excited to tell you about Anchored Virtual's new podcast, Consult the Counselor. There are very few spaces that are designed for long form conversations on difficult counseling topics. On Consult a Counselor, that's what we want to provide.In each episode, we invite two of our counselors at Anchored Virtual into a deep dive conversation on a counseling topic. Once a month, we'll release episodes on issues such as addictions, trauma, church hurt, infertility, forgiveness, abuse, and more. You'll get to hear expert counselors discuss the nuances and challenges of these issues and ultimately apply the hope of the gospel in practical and meaningful ways.To listen search for Consult the Counselor wherever you listen to podcasts.----For more information about Anchored Virtual, visit ⁠anchoredvirtual.com

On this episode of This vs. That, we talk with Dr. Nate Brooks about navigating the tension between honesty and cynicism when dealing with chronic illness. We discuss how the church often struggles to address the realities of chronic pain in authentic ways, sometimes offering shallow platitudes rather than genuine understanding. Dr. Brooks, an associate professor at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and founder of Courage Christian Counseling, shares insights from his book "Disrupted Journey" and his personal experience walking alongside his wife through chronic illness.We explore what makes questioning faithful versus unfaithful, how to express raw emotions without sliding into nihilism, and the challenging process of renegotiating relationships when chronic illness changes everything. Dr. Brooks offers a fascinating framework of "key card access levels" for understanding how different relationships can handle different levels of vulnerability during difficult seasons.----Unlock your leadership potential with the Women in Leadership Cohort—an empowering 8‑week online program designed for women ready to lead with confidence. Experience weekly leadership training, mentorship, and counselor‑led small groups in a supportive community of driven women. Step into your calling, strengthen your skills, and connect with like‑minded leaders.For more information visit anchoredvirtual.com/womens-cohort----We're really excited to tell you about Anchored Virtual's new podcast, Consult the Counselor. There are very few spaces that are designed for long form conversations on difficult counseling topics. On Consult a Counselor, that's what we want to provide.In each episode, we invite two of our counselors at Anchored Virtual into a deep dive conversation on a counseling topic. Once a month, we'll release episodes on issues such as addictions, trauma, church hurt, infertility, forgiveness, abuse, and more. You'll get to hear expert counselors discuss the nuances and challenges of these issues and ultimately apply the hope of the gospel in practical and meaningful ways.To listen search for Consult the Counselor wherever you listen to podcasts.----For more information about Anchored Virtual, visit anchoredvirtual.com