Speak The Truth

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike explores Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) from a biblical counseling perspective with special guest Beth Claes. The discussion differentiates between the DSM-5 definition of NPD and cultural perceptions of narcissism. Key characteristics such as self-absorption, desire for admiration, and lack of empathy are analyzed alongside biblical teachings, framing narcissism as idolatry. The conversation highlights the challenges and importance of reconciliation and healthy conflict resolution in Christian relationships. Additionally, the episode addresses the complexities of navigating relationships marred by narcissistic behavior and advocates for wise counsel, prayerful engagement, and mentorship to balance recognizing dysfunction while offering hope for redemption through Christ.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:30 Discussing Narcissistic Personality Disorder01:12 Cultural vs. Clinical Narcissism03:52 Biblical Perspective on Narcissism05:11 Challenges in Identifying Narcissism06:05 Handling Relationships with Narcissists07:40 The Misuse of Psychological Labels09:50 Narcissism and the Gospel's Response11:06 Engaging with Narcissistic Behaviors13:08 Final Thoughts and EncouragementEpisode MentionsBeth's Blog 

Beth Claes, a counseling director specializing in biblical counseling, shares insights on Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) from a faith-based perspective. They discuss the rising prevalence of anxiety and its implications in modern society. Beth highlights the symptoms of GAD and how they often overlap with daily challenges. The conversation emphasizes the importance of integrating biblical truths with psychological understanding, encouraging listeners to confront their anxiety by leaning on faith and recognizing God's compassion in their struggles.

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael and special guest Beth Claes, a Counseling Director and biblical counselor, delve into the topic of codependency. Beth shares her insights from a background in psychology and biblical counseling, discussing how codependency manifests in relationships and how it is not a diagnosable disorder in the DSM. They explore the biblical framework for understanding codependency, identifying it as a form of 'fear of man' and misplaced identity. The conversation extends to practical advice on dealing with codependency within various relationships, emphasizing the importance of setting healthy boundaries and finding one's identity in God. Join them as they unpack the complexities of codependency and its implications for biblical counseling.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:24 Introducing Special Guest Beth Claes 01:27 Understanding Codependency03:58 Biblical Perspective on Codependency04:48 Addressing Codependency in Relationships13:00 Challenges in Labeling and Misconceptions18:41 Final Thoughts and Encouragement22:17 Conclusion and Listener EngagementEpisode MentionsNew Heights Church where Beth serves Beth's Blog–Wrestled Faith  Beth's story from Psychologist to Biblical Counselor - Speak the Truth EP. 140

In this episode, Mike is joined by special guest, Robert Cheong from Gospel Care Ministries to discuss various gaps in church discipleship and ministry, emphasizing the importance of personal and communal abiding in Christ. They highlight the 'faith gap' where individuals lack confidence in living out the gospel, and how it affects church programs, community, and leadership. Robert outlines personal challenges categorized into gaps in people's stories, hearts, and wants, which contribute to these faith gaps. The solution proposed focuses on prioritizing personal and communal abiding in Christ, which fuels life and forms ministry. Practical tips for addressing these issues in local churches are provided, with a call for churches to reimagine their ministry approaches around abiding in Christ.Fall Hybrid Class Beginning in October 2024Virtual Class: Level 1 Enrollment with Truth Renewed - Enroll TodayEpisode LinksGospel Care MinistriesLast podcast with Robert CheongLatest TGC Blog W/Robert Cheong: Pastor, Are the Gaps in Your Faith Affecting Your Ministry? 

In this episode, host Mike discusses a unique opportunity for listeners to join Truth Renewed's hybrid Level One Certification class. He introduces a special guest, Rob Rodriguez from Encounter Ministries, who elaborates on his new eight-week marriage program. Rodriguez, a doctoral student and Director of Biblical Counseling, shares insights about his book and workbook that focus on fostering hope, influence, and fidelity in marriages. He also highlights the upcoming marriage encounter event in Lake Tahoe and how listeners can access these resources and join the program.Episode Resources Truth Renewed Level 1 Certification in September Harmony In Marriage - Amazon Encounter Ministries 00:00 Introduction and Invitation00:48 Welcome to Speak the Truth Podcast01:12 Introducing Rob Rodriguez and Encounter Ministries01:57 Harmony in Marriage: Book and Resources04:52 Deep Dive into Marriage Topics08:21 Facilitator Guide and Group Dynamics14:34 Upcoming Classes and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Mike announces an invitation to participate in Truth Renewed's hybrid certification class and introduces special guests Michael Snetzer and Brett Smith. They discuss the Gospel Recovery Network and its 'Steps' program, a comprehensive discipleship and recovery curriculum. Michael shares his journey in developing the program, its roots in Celebrate Recovery, and its eventual transformation. Brett adds his personal experiences with 'Steps' and its impact on his faith and ministry. They delve into the unique aspects of the program, emphasizing its theological foundation and practical application, along with its evangelistic potential. The episode also highlights the program's availability for licensing and training for churches, aiming to provide robust gospel-centered recovery solutions.00:00 Introduction and Invitation to Certification00:48 Welcome to the Podcast01:23 Special Guests: Michael Snetzer and Brett Smith03:11 Michael Snetzer's Journey and Gospel Recovery Network05:00 Brett Smith's Story and Connection to Michael11:49 Steps Program: Origins and Evolution14:59 Steps Program: Structure and Impact26:34 Evangelistic Potential of Steps28:18 How to Get Involved with Gospel Recovery Network32:11 Conclusion and Contact InformationEpisode Resources Citizens Church - Steps Gospel Recovery NetworkCharles Simeon Trust

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth', Mike is joined by guest Robert Cheong from Gospel Care Ministries, as he delves into his meditations on Psalm 25. They explore themes of trusting God, experiencing His steadfast love and faithfulness, and the importance of scripture in personal spiritual growth and church leadership. They emphasize the significance of abiding in Christ, sharing biblical insights with others, and finding comfort in God's Word through life's challenges.00:00 Introduction and Invitation to Certification00:48 Welcome to the Podcast01:09 Conference Highlights and Special Guest Introduction01:36 Deep Dive into Psalm 2502:24 Trusting God Through Life's Uncertainties03:07 Experiencing God's Steadfast Love and Faithfulness09:35 Encouragement in the Word and Community11:15 The Importance of Opening the Word14:52 Abiding in Christ and Walking Together19:17 The Beauty of the Psalms20:51 Conclusion and Listener EngagementEpisode Resources Gospel Care Ministries

In this episode Michael interview's Richard and Shelly Wenschlag, founders of Encounter Ministries, at the ABC Conference 2024. They discuss their ministry's journey from its origins, aimed at fostering deep relationships and connecting individuals with Christ, to becoming a nonprofit organization. The conversation covers the challenges faced in sustaining the spiritual high post-retreat, the importance of vulnerability in fostering connections, and the expansion of their ministry to multiple states. Additionally, they highlight their upcoming marriage encounters and ongoing efforts to integrate deeper counseling support in partnership with local churches.00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast00:24 Meet the Founders of Encounter Ministries01:12 The Origin and Mission of Encounter Ministries02:45 The Impact of Vulnerability and Relationship Building05:23 The Power of Testimony and Freedom in Christ10:05 Challenges and Growth in Encounter Ministries14:37 Post-Encounter Experience and Church Integration19:52 The Role of Counseling in Healing and Growth25:23 Marriage Encounter: Strengthening Relationships29:48 Final Thoughts and EncouragementEncounter Ministries Website and Events

In this episode of Speak the Truth, recorded at the 2024 Called to Council Conference at Doxology Bible Church in Fort Worth, Texas, Michael joins biblical counselors David and Krista Dunham from Michigan. David, a pastor at Cornerstone Baptist Church, and Krista, a private practice biblical counselor, discuss their journeys into ministry and counseling. They delve into topics including the theological perspective on addiction, the concept of worship disorders, and their book 'Table for Two' which addresses overcoming eating disorders. The episode also highlights Krista's experiences in setting up her counseling practice and their forthcoming book on power dynamics in marriage.00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast00:32 Meet the Dunham's: David and Krista01:21 David's Journey into Pastoral Ministry03:35 Krista's Path to Biblical Counseling06:18 Writing 'Table for Two': A Personal Story11:05 Understanding Addictions: A Theological Perspective17:54 Encouragement for Aspiring Counselors19:54 Upcoming Projects and ConclusionEpisode Mentions: A Table for Two Cornerstone Baptist Church 

In this episode of the Speak the Truth, Michael interviews Josh Conwell, Executive Director of Counseling at DOXA Collective in Southeast Portland. Josh shares his personal journey from growing up in a Southern Baptist household to discovering a transformational biblical faith through significant life challenges. He discusses his educational experience at Southern Seminary, his decision-making process for finding a local church, and his transition to Portland. Josh touches on his passion for biblical counseling, detailing his methods for integrating scripture into his counseling practice to offer hope and healing. The conversation also addresses the cultural and spiritual dynamics Josh encounters in Portland, especially the challenges of ministering in a predominantly secular and relativistic environment. Finally, Josh offers advice to current seminarians about their future in ministry, emphasizing the importance of prayer, community, and proactive planning.00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast00:30 Meet Josh Conwell: Executive Director of DOXA Counseling Collective 01:16 Josh's Journey to Biblical Counseling02:04 The Transformational Power of the Gospel06:31 Choosing a Church in Louisville10:21 From Louisville to Portland: A New Ministry13:27 Challenges and Opportunities in Portland21:39 Encouragement for Future Ministers24:51 Doxa Counseling Collective: Vision and Growth26:24 Conclusion and Contact InformationEpisode MentionsSouthern MDiv - Biblical Counseling DOXA Counseling Collective Third Avenue Baptist Church Clifton Baptist Church Hinson Baptist Church