Speak The Truth

Beth Claes, Counseling Director at New Heights Church, shares her journey from secular psychology to biblical counseling. She answers common questions about educational paths and career prospects in this field. Beth emphasizes the importance of integrating biblical counseling within the church and describes the unique challenges faced by women in leadership roles. The conversation highlights the potential for personalized ministry amid a mental health crisis and how churches can foster a culture of care and connection.

Exploring Union with Christ: Implications for Counseling and BeyondIn this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael engages with Jason Kovacs from the Gospel Care Collective at the 2025 Made to Minister Conference. They discuss the transformative power of knowing Christ, focusing on the foundational truths of Biblical Counseling, particularly the doctrine of Union with Christ and its implications for counseling. Kovacs shares insights about his ministry, the importance of Christ's presence in our lives, and how understanding our union with Christ can bring hope and perseverance in the counseling process. The conversation delves into the challenges and theological depths of suffering, providing encouragement for both counselors and counselees.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:34 Guest Introduction: Jason Kovacs00:54 Foundational Truths for Biblical Counseling02:26 Union with Christ: Personal Insights03:57 Implications of Union with Christ in Counseling09:10 The Counselor's Perspective11:49 The Role of Suffering and Hope in Counseling22:03 Final Thoughts and ConclusionEpisode MentionsGospel Care Collective Canadian Biblical Counseling Coalition 

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael welcomes Tim St. John, the counseling pastor at Lighthouse Community Church in Torrance, California. Podcasting from the Made to Minister Conference 2025, they discuss the prevalent issue of church leadership failures and the deep wounds they leave. Tim shares insights into his work in a church with a robust biblical counseling ministry and offers gospel-centered strategies for addressing church hurt and spiritual abuse. Highlighting the importance of sharing one's story, understanding the severity of the sin committed, and relying on Christ as the ultimate shepherd, the discussion provides listeners with practical advice and hope.00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast00:53 Guest Introduction: Timothy St. John01:38 Tim's Ministry and Counseling Approach04:07 Challenges in Church Leadership and Counseling06:22 Addressing Church Hurt and Spiritual Abuse08:16 Gospel-Centered Strategies for Healing13:31 Navigating Toxic Church Environments23:11 Concluding Thoughts and EncouragementWanting TrainingTruth Renewed Ministries - Certification Training Episode MentionsLighthouse Community Church 

Exploring Biblical Approaches to Coping StrategiesIn this episode of Speak the Truth, the host joins Kristin Silva Linder at the 25 May to Minister Conference in Salem, Oregon. Kristin discusses her breakout session on coping strategies and the importance of understanding God's character to replace flawed coping mechanisms. The conversation covers how biblical counseling can help individuals navigate their struggles by recognizing God's common grace and ultimate providence. They also explore practical steps for directing one's heart towards spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God's love and support.00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast00:45 Guest Introduction: Kristin Silva Linder 01:08 Coping Strategies and God's Character03:55 Exploring Biblical Counseling07:21 The Role of Common Grace14:01 Practical Applications and Encouragement26:43 Final Thoughts and ClosingEpisode MentionsKristin Silva Linder - Author & Biblical Counselor Made to Minister Facebook Page 

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' listeners are invited to register for the upcoming ABC Call to Council conference. Mike is joined with Justin Greene and Mary Young, both cancer survivors, discuss their newly launched Cancer Care Ministry at Salem Heights Church. They share their personal journeys with cancer, the unique challenges faced by cancer patients, and how the new ministry aims to provide practical support, emotional comfort, and spiritual guidance. Key topics include the importance of humor, sharing stories, and maintaining hope amid suffering. Additionally, they emphasize the necessity for other churches to consider establishing similar support groups and provide resources for starting such initiatives. 00:00 Introduction and Conference Announcement01:39 Welcome to Speak the Truth Podcast02:13 Introducing Justin Green and Mary Young02:37 Justin's Cancer Journey04:48 Mary's Cancer Journey06:15 Launching the Cancer Care Ministry16:33 The Oasis Cancer Support Groups27:39 Encouragement and Resources for Churches30:17 Conclusion and Contact InformationEpisode MentionsOur Journey of Hope - Cancer Resources 

Embracing Biblical Hope: Navigating Suffering with FaithIn this episode of Speak the Truth, the hosts discuss the transformative power of knowing Christ, featuring Pete Potloff, a recurring guest since 2019. Recorded at the Made to Minister Conference 2025 in Salem, Oregon, the conversation revolves around Pete's breakout session on discovering practical ways to help others experience and live out biblical hope in their daily lives. Highlighting themes from 1 Peter 1, they talk about the distinction between worldly hope and biblical hope, the enduring nature of hope rooted in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the importance of counselors and pastors effectively communicating this to those they serve. The episode also teases upcoming content on how to use the Psalms for individuals who have experienced trauma, and underscores the ultimate value of relying on Christ as the ultimate treasure in the midst of life's trials and suffering.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:36 Guest Introduction: Pete Potloff01:04 Made to Minister Conference Overview02:12 The Concept of Living Hope03:39 Biblical Hope vs. Worldly Hope06:19 Practical Applications of Hope14:09 Upcoming Conference on Trauma18:38 Final Encouragement and Closing RemarksEpisode MentionsRegister for the ABC Conference

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike is Recording live at the Made to Minister Conference 2025, the episode highlights a conversation with Aaron and Angi Greene, experienced marriage counselors. They discuss their journey in marriage counseling, the importance of gospel-centered strategies, and practical tools for resolving conflicts in marriage. The Greene's share insights on transforming relationships through a deeper understanding of the gospel and how it impacts everyday life, emphasizing the significance of pursuing peace and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in marriage counseling.00:00 Introduction and Conference Announcement01:40 Welcome to Speak the Truth Podcast02:12 Special Guests: Aaron and Angi Greene03:08 Marriage Counseling Insights10:32 The Gospel's Role in Marriage Counseling15:28 Encouragement and Practical Tools for Marriage23:10 Concluding Thoughts and FarewellEPISODE MENTIONSRegister for the ABC Conference Our YouTube Channel 

The Future and Hope of Biblical Counseling: ABC's Vision for Growth and ImpactIn this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy provide information about the annual ABC Call to Council conference, showcasing its themes, plenary speakers, and specialized tracks including mental health and trauma. They reflect on the history and heart of the Association of Biblical Counselors (ABC) and discuss the future direction of ABC, focusing on expanding the reach of biblical counseling and ensuring it permeates beyond traditional circles. The hosts share updates on various initiatives such as translating the curriculum into different languages, developing new resources, and introducing specialized training programs. They emphasize the importance of maintaining gospel-centered counseling and equipping the next generation to address modern challenges with theological integrity. Lastly, they encourage listeners to support ABC's mission through prayer and financial contributions.00:00 Introduction and Conference Announcement00:28 Exciting Conference Tracks and Registration Details01:27 Live Streaming and Podcast Introduction02:15 Miniseries Recap and Focus on ABC's Future02:56 Expanding Biblical Counseling Beyond Reformed Circles05:59 Global Initiatives and Unity in Biblical Counseling07:42 Special Projects and Resource Development12:10 Equipping the Next Generation of Counselors15:19 Gospel-Centered Discipleship and Addressing Modern Challenges21:10 Encouragement and Ways to Support ABC's MissionEpisode MentionsRegister for the ABC Conference 

The Heart of ABC: Mobalizing the Local Church in Equipping the Saints for Ministry In this episode, the hosts discuss the upcoming ABC Call to Council conference, highlighting its unique track-based structure featuring plenary sessions by renowned speakers such as Paul Tripp, Jeremy Pierre, and John Henderson. They explain the heart of ABC, focusing on its mission to enlist, equip, enrich, and encourage believers to apply the gospel to all aspects of life. Distinctives of ABC's certification process, including its emphasis on the sufficiency of scripture, the autonomy of the local church, and practical training through the Equip2Counsel curriculum, are elaborated upon. The episode underscores the importance of equipping the saints for ministry within their local church contexts and the broader community.00:00 Conference Announcement and Registration Details01:47 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast03:04 Who is ABC? Exploring the Heart and Mission04:14 ABC's Mission and Vision Explained05:32 The Importance of Enlisting and Equipping07:06 ABC's Certification and Training Programs09:44 Distinctives of ABC's Conference and Certification26:45 Growth and Impact of ABC's Training Centers28:29 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsEpisode MentionsRegister for the ABC Conference  Check out ABC's Certification Pathway Enroll in Level 1 with Truth Renewed 

The Origins and Evolution of the Association of Biblical Counselors: A Journey of Faith and ResilienceIn this episode of Speak the Truth, Michael, Shauna, and Jeremy discuss the history, growth, and guiding principles of the Association of Biblical Counselors (ABC). The conversation delves into the inception of ABC in 2003, spearheaded by a vision to provide a dedicated association for biblical counseling distinct from existing bodies. Founding member Jeremy elaborates on the early challenges, including a significant moral crisis and the support they received from prominent biblical counselors like David Pawlison and Paul Tripp. The episode highlights pivotal moments such as the 2009 symposium that revitalized ABC, the development of certification programs, and the impact of key figures like John Henderson and Shauna. The guiding principles of ABC—glorifying God, loving others, and upholding the sufficiency of Scripture—are emphasized throughout. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolution of biblical counseling within the church and the growth of ABC’s influence and organizational structure, attributing their success to divine faithfulness and communal support.00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast00:39 Recap of Made to Minister Conference01:39 Introducing the ABC Miniseries02:23 The Inception of ABC05:18 Early Challenges and Support08:03 Turning Points and Growth13:22 Certification and Local Church Engagement21:53 Evolution of Biblical Counseling24:31 Defining Moments in ABC's History27:02 Conclusion and Gratitude