Radically Christian

This episode of the Radically Christian Podcast continues the series on the fruit of the Spirit, focusing on faithfulness with guest Bobby Wheat. The conversation begins with the reminder that spiritual growth isn’t automatic—God produces fruit through the Spirit, but believers must also intentionally cooperate, making daily choices that reflect the Spirit’s work. Bobby describes the process as an “upward-moving spiral,” where small, intentional steps, empowered by the Spirit, build into greater maturity over time.Bobby and Wes both talk about how faithfulness is relational, rooted not in mere church attendance or perfection, but in steadfast loyalty, presence, and allegiance to God. They connect the Greek word pistis (faith/faithfulness) to trust, reliability, and allegiance, underscoring that true faith cannot be separated from faithfulness lived out in action. Marriage becomes a helpful metaphor: faithfulness isn’t occasional or flawless, but a daily, ongoing pursuit of loyalty and presence.Bobby Wheat grew up in Texas and studied at Abilene Christian University, where he met his wife, Nancy Mitchell. The couple served several years on the mission field in Zimbabwe; Bobby later completed a master’s in biblical studies at ACU and spent decades sharing the Gospel in Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and briefly Tennessee. He preached for ten years at Lakeshore Drive Church of Christ in Waco. He stepped away from full-time ministry in early 2022, now lives in Hewitt, TX (where his son Chris preaches), runs a small woodworking business, and enjoys family life with three grown children and eight grandchildren.Links and Resources* Logos Bible Study Software (Extended Free Trial)* Matthew Bates, Salvation by Allegiance AloneNote: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

This episode of the Radically Christian Podcast continues the series on the fruit of the Spirit, focusing on goodness with guest Jordan Arnold, minister at the Church of Christ in Falls Church, Virginia.Arnold defines biblical “goodness” as more than simply avoiding evil; it is active, courageous, and transformative. It’s goodness “with an edge,” the kind that rolls up its sleeves, risks reputation, and changes lives. They stress that such goodness isn’t meant to draw attention to the individual but to point people toward God. Good works serve as witness, drawing others to glorify the Father. They also highlight the communal aspect: the Spirit cultivates fruit not just in individuals but in the whole church, making love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control the marks of Spirit-filled community.The conversation closes with encouragement for believers to pray for goodness, to pursue it in fellowship with others, and to allow God’s Spirit to keep forming it within them. Goodness, they emphasize, is underrated in our culture but essential in reflecting Christ’s character to the world.Links and Resources* VidAngel (use code radically at signup)Note: Some links may be affiliate links. If you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

In this episode of the Radically Christian Podcast, Wes McAdams continues his series on the fruit of the Spirit with a conversation about kindness, joined by guest Billy McGuiggan. They begin by reflecting on Galatians 5, emphasizing that the fruit of the Spirit is a single unified work of God, not separate traits we manufacture ourselves. Billy explains that walking in step with the Spirit means surrendering daily to God’s will over our own, nurturing a genuine relationship with Him that empowers kindness and other Spirit-produced qualities.The discussion explores how kindness differs from mere niceness. They stress that kindness isn’t just about what we say or do, but how we say and do it—whether people can truly sense God’s love in us. Billy notes that non-Christians may display kindness through God’s common grace, but Spirit-empowered kindness is distinct because it endures even when we are tired, angry, or worn thin.Throughout the conversation, Billy shares personal experiences of being treated unkindly by fellow Christians and how those moments shaped his commitment to always respond with kindness, especially toward sinners and the hurting. He stresses that kindness should disarm rather than provoke defensiveness, pointing people toward God rather than pushing them away. The two men agree that living in step with the Spirit creates a better world—one marked by kindness instead of division—and Christians are called to start building that Spirit-shaped world here and now, as a foretaste of what’s coming in the new creation.Links and Resources:* Freed-Hardeman University: https://fhu.edu/mba* Logos Free Trial: Logos.com/radicallychristianNote: Some links may be affiliate links. If you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams continues his series on the Fruit of the Spirit with guest Bill Watkins, focusing on patience. They begin by reflecting on the Spirit’s role in forming believers’ character, emphasizing that while people without the Spirit may show love or joy, the Spirit empowers Christians to embody these qualities to a higher degree. The conversation underscores that the Spirit’s fruit is not just for personal holiness but for building relationships within the church and the world. Living selfishly leads to destruction, but living by the Spirit creates life and community.They dive into patience specifically, distinguishing between two Greek words: hupomonē (endurance through circumstances) and makrothumia (long-suffering with people). Paul uses the latter in Galatians 5, highlighting that patience is mainly about how we treat others, especially when they are difficult. They point out that patience is most clearly demonstrated in God’s dealings with humanity—his restraint and mercy despite our sin. Christians are called to mirror that same patience, recognizing that God desires all people to be saved.Bill Watkins is the Pulpit Minister for the Crieve Hall Church of Christ in Nashville, TN. He shares practical ministry and personal stories about cultivating patience, from handling criticism as a preacher to seeing daily annoyances as opportunities to show God’s love. He encourages listeners not to take offenses personally but to see difficult people as souls God wants to redeem. Links and Resources* Logos Bible Software (Free Trial): logos.com/radicallychristianNote: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

This episode of the Radically Christian Podcast features a conversation between Wes McAdams and Bert Ritchie, a minister from Northern Ireland who has spent decades working toward peace and reconciliation. The discussion begins with Bert recounting his upbringing, his ministry journey, and the backdrop of sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland. He describes how religious and political divisions fueled hostility for generations and how the peace accord reduced violence, though tensions remain unresolved. The heart of the conversation focuses on what it means to pursue peace as a follower of Jesus. Bert emphasizes that peace is not just a theological concept but an embodied practice that requires courage, humility, and trust-building. Using the metaphor of bridge-building, he explains that it’s not enough to construct bridges between divided groups—someone has to be willing to cross them. He shares his own experiences speaking in Catholic churches, sitting with priests, and engaging even with former terrorists, highlighting how reconciliation involves risks, patience, and a willingness to leave one’s comfort zone. Bert Ritchie is a longtime minister in Ireland with over 40 years of service. Married to his wife Doreen, with four children and ten grandchildren, he has worked extensively in contexts of division, seeking to live as a peacemaker across denominational, political, and cultural lines. His life and ministry reflect a commitment to grace, reconciliation, and practical, lived-out peace. Links and Resources: * 2013 Christian Chronicle article about Ritchie's work* VidAngel Free TrialNote: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

In this episode, Wes McAdams and Marcus Stenson wrestle with the meaning of the fruit of the Spirit, especially the aspect of joy. They explore the difference between trying to produce fruit by sheer willpower versus recognizing that fruit naturally flows from the Spirit living within. Using vivid metaphors, they contrast the Spirit’s genuine work with the artificial substitutes our culture often accepts. A major focus is the distinction between biblical joy and worldly happiness. Marcus and Wes discuss how non-Christians may show echoes of love, joy, or kindness, but without the Spirit, these expressions are often misdirected or hollow. Marcus insists that the fruit of the Spirit is diagnostic, not prescriptive—it reveals whether we are truly living by the Spirit rather than being another “to-do list” for Christians. The conversation emphasizes that joy prepares believers for inevitable seasons of pain and loss, teaching us to lament honestly while still trusting God’s promises. Marcus Stenson serves as the preaching minister at the Leander Church of Christ in Texas. He also coaches churches transitioning from consumer-driven to disciple-making models and partners in Kenya to help with discipleship and humanitarian projects. A self-proclaimed foodie and long-suffering Minnesota Vikings fan, Marcus brings both insight and practical analogies to the discussion.Links and Resources* Logos.com/radicallychristian* The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis* Harvard Adult Development Study (often called the “Harvard Happiness Study”)Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

In this episode, Wes McAdams begins a new series on the fruit of the Spirit, focusing first on love with guest Boo Scott, minister at National Park Church of Christ. They discuss how the fruit of the Spirit is not a checklist of virtues to achieve by sheer willpower but the supernatural result of the Spirit’s presence in a Christian’s life. Using metaphors like a single fruit with many flavors, they emphasize that producing love, joy, peace, and other traits is active but Spirit-powered—requiring intentional submission, alignment, and cooperation without taking credit for the transformation. They also explore the distinction between Spirit-produced love and the limited, self-serving love possible apart from Christ. Biblical love is defined as patient, kind, humble, truthful, enduring, and self-sacrificial, modeled perfectly in Jesus. The Spirit empowers believers to love in a way that aligns with God’s original intent for humanity: bringing order out of chaos, blessing the nations, and helping others realize they were created for him.Boo and Wes remind listeners that genuine love is eternal and transformational, impacting the unseen spiritual realm and reflecting God’s glory whether shown in public ministry or small acts of kindness. Links and Resources* Logos Bible Software — Extended Free Trial* National Park Church of ChristNote: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

This episode of the Radically Christian Podcast features a conversation Wes McAdams had with Nate Miller and Austin McCrickard on the Thinking Kingdom podcast. Together, they explore a biblical vision of the kingdom of God that goes beyond traditional assumptions. The discussion reflects on how Jesus' mission and message invite believers to live in a way that anticipates God’s full and final reign.The episode touches on key biblical texts and images that reshape our understanding of what it means to be a kingdom person in a world where God's rule is still contested. Themes like enemy love, allegiance to Jesus, and the upside-down nature of the gospel are all woven into the conversation without pretending that living this way is easy or without cost.Nate Miller and Austin McCrickard co-host the Thinking Kingdom podcast, which is part of the Excel Still More Network. If you haven’t done so already, I would encourage you to subscribe to their podcast as well. Links and Resources:* Thinking Kingdom Podcast (featuring Nate Miller and Austin McCrickard)* Salvation by Allegiance Alone by Matthew Bates* Freed Hardeman University - https://www.fhu.edu/gradtheologySome links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

Many Christians wrestle with feelings of unworthiness and insecurity when it comes to their relationship with God. In this episode, Wes McAdams addresses that struggle. He explores the profound truth of 1 John 1–2, encouraging listeners to ask: How do I know that I know Jesus? Wes challenges listeners to move beyond shame and into confidence—not because of their perfection, but because of their Advocate, Jesus Christ.The sermon unpacks the concept of fellowship with God—a deep, intimate partnership—and how it’s not built on our performance but on walking in the light. Walking in the light doesn’t mean being sinlessly perfect; it means being honest, confessing sin, and trusting in God's mercy. Wes emphasizes that Jesus is not just a distant Savior, but an active Advocate who continually intercedes for his people. And because we are represented by Jesus in heaven, we must represent Him on earth—especially through our love for others, including our enemies.This lesson was preached at the 2025 Red River Family Encampment in the beautiful mountains of Red River, New Mexico.Links and Resources:* Red River Family Encampment* Logos Bible Software (Extended Free Trial) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams speaks with Jennifer Lewis about how culture has shaped young women—particularly within the church—and how the gospel can bring healing, identity, and purpose. Jennifer shares insights from her experience with E.WE.S. Camp (Equipping Women for Exceptional Service), which mentors and equips young Christian women to serve with confidence and biblical knowledge.The conversation dives deep into the impact of purity culture. Jennifer discusses the unintended harm done to young women when modesty and purity were overemphasized in ways that led them to feel ashamed of their bodies and responsible for others’ sins. She challenges the cultural and religious messaging that reduced girls to stumbling blocks and boys to uncontrollable beings, highlighting how this kind of thinking strays far from biblical teaching. Jennifer passionately advocates for teaching grace, continual cleansing (1 John 1), and identity in Christ—not shame and fear.Jennifer also emphasizes the need for women to be students of Scripture and active participants in the work of the church. She encourages women to think, study, and engage their faith directly. Rather than merely emphasizing what women “cannot do,” she highlights the rich, essential, and often overlooked roles women can and should fill in the church—from teaching, visiting, and mentoring to being spiritual mothers and bearers of God’s Word in everyday life.Jennifer is a speaker, teacher, and leader of E.W.E.S. Camp, a training camp designed to mentor, educate, and equip young women for meaningful service in the church. She is the daughter, wife, and mother of preachers and has spent much of her life supporting leadership and ministry, especially among women.Links and Resources: * Logos Bible Study Software* E.W.E.S. (Equipping Women for Exceptional Service) Camp* The Toxic War on Masculinity by Nancy Pearcey This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com