

Culture Matters
Culture Matters
Matters of culture should matter to us—because they matter to God. Hosted by Adam Hawkins, Tymarcus Ragland and Chelsea Conway—the Culture Matters podcast explores the intersection of faith and culture. Looking at everything from politics, art and entertainment to issues such as racial reconciliation and the sanctity of human life, we discuss what it looks like to live faithfully on mission—in the world but not of the world.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 17, 2024 • 46min
A Weary World Rejoices
Advent reminds us of the hope in a light in the darkness. In this episode, our friends Bobby and Taryn share their story of how God upheld them through joys and suffering and through seasons of lament surrounding the holidays. Topics DiscussedEncountering God in SufferingThe Power of Christian LamentTrusting God in CommunityEmbracing Joy and Sorrow in AdventFinding Grace in SufferingRecommended ResourcesSpurgeon - "Man of Sorrows"Follow us on SocialInstagram-- Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Dec 10, 2024 • 42min
End of Year Round Up
In this episode we discuss some of the bigger headlines in the news lately as well as take a look back at the year to review some of our favorite, books, music and movies.Recommended and Mentioned ResourcesOur previous episodes on Christian Nationalism:Part 1Part 2Books:Flood and FuryHip-Hop Is HistoryDo Fathers Matter?Nuclear War on AudibleThe Thing That Would Make Everything Okay ForeverWe Shall All Be ChangedThe Mary We ForgotInexpressible: Hesed and the Mystery of God's LovingkindnessMusic:Ty RashadPaper HorsesThe Brilliance - Advent CollectionNatalie Bergman - MercyNourished by TimeAdrianne LenkerIndie TribeDJ Mykel - BodegaFollow us on SocialInstagram-- Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Dec 3, 2024 • 25min
The Book of Galatians with Elizabeth Woodson
Join us on Culture Matters as we explore the epistle of Galatians with Elizabeth, who shares insights from her new study, Live Free. Elizabeth delves into her admiration for Paul's engagement with culture, highlighting his skillful interaction with Greek philosophers and his adept handling of false teachings by the Judaizers. We discuss how Paul's message remains relevant today, addressing the timeless challenges of being right with God and experiencing true freedom from sin.Recommended ResourcesBuy the book: Live Free: A Study of GalatiansFollow ElizabethListen to her Podcast: Starting PlaceCheck out The Woodson InstituteFollow us on SocialInstagram-- Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Nov 26, 2024 • 29min
The Practice of Gratitude
Join us on Culture Matters as we explore the role of gratitude and its significance. We discuss how the human experience is often a mixture of gratitude and sorrow, how gratitude can offer contentment in the present moment and how it can shift our perspective to appreciate even small blessings.Topics Discussed Choosing Gratitude for Joyful Living Navigating Gratitude and Sorrow in Life Finding Grace in Times of LossSeeking Joy Through Gratitude Life's Journey With the LordFollow us on SocialInstagram-- Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Nov 19, 2024 • 37min
Greed vs. Generosity
How often does our vision for something differ from God's sovereign vision —making us blind to the blessing? Our latest episode is a challenge to rethink the common notions of greed and generosity, especially as the holiday season underscores the tension between gratitude and consumerism. We explore how societal norms can obscure the real condition of the heart, making it easy to overlook the subtle ways in which greed infiltrates both our personal and collective lives.Topics DiscussedExploring the Sin and Root of Greed Trusting God's Provision and SufficiencyRadical Generosity and Faith in Abundance The Power of GenerosityFollow us on SocialInstagram-- Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Nov 12, 2024 • 37min
Gluttony vs Contentment
Where do we go in times of need and comfort? How can we think about comforts as an invitation to rely more on Christ and not on the temporary fixes of this world? On this episode, we explore the concept of gluttony: what is it and what does the Bible have to say about it? By examining the impact of modern habits like phone overuse or streaming services, we highlight how distractions can distance us from genuine connection with God and others and make finding contentment elusive.Topics DiscussedGluttony and GenerosityRecognizing Personal AccountabilityThe Concept of Gluttony in ScriptureParable of the Man and BarnsThe Concept of Gratitude Versus GluttonyThe Struggle of Saying NoFreedom in Enjoying God's AbundanceResources Mentionedhttps://www.thecommonrule.org/Rhythms Sermon SeriesFollow us on SocialInstagram-- Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Nov 8, 2024 • 36min
Election Surprises and the Human Side of Politics
President Trump secures a historic second term, defying predictions and shocking many. On this episode, we discuss the unexpected election results that left many, including pollsters, scratching their heads. We explore the shifting demographics in key swing states like Ohio and Florida and how Trump managed to capture the allegiance of independent voters more effectively this time around.The emotional rollercoaster of the election aftermath isn't lost on us. For some it was cause for celebration, others a point of grief, and others still left not knowing how to feel. We hope to remind listeners that now is a great opportunity to show empathy and offer the hope of Jesus that supersedes any earthly kingdom.Topics DiscussedElection Results DiscussionPost-Election Reflection and AdviceVoter Motivation and PlatformFuture of Pro-Life CandidatesDemographics and Political ShiftingNavigating Conversations With Non-Believing NeighborsFollow us on socialInstagram-- Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Oct 29, 2024 • 36min
The Mythmakers and Creating Christian Art
This week we have a fascinating conversation with author and illustrator John Hendrix about his latest book—The Mythmakers: The Remarkable Fellowship of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. We explore the beauty of communicating really complicated truths through myth, story and poetry — similar to how God takes the stories of the world and tells us a truer story. Through the creation of myths we can be image bearers of God, the ultimate Mythmaker. ResourcesThe Mythmakers: The Remarkable Fellowship of C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien (A Graphic Novel) Follow us on socialInstagram-- Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Oct 22, 2024 • 42min
Home with God - Our Union with Christ
Kyle Worley, pastor at Mosaic Church and author of the insightful new book "Home with God or Union with Christ," joins us to unpack the transformative doctrine of union with Christ. Through the metaphor of being at home with God, Kyle shares how this understanding reshapes our perspective on salvation, emphasizing the richness of fellowship beyond mere forgiveness. In his latest book, Kyle hopes to enable others to grasp fullness and beauty of this doctrine, encouraging believers to embrace their identity in Christ fully. This episode invites listeners to reflect on the delighting love of God for them.Topic DiscussedUnion With ChristChristian Freedom and Forgiveness UnderstandingExploring the Concept of CovenantUnderstanding the Christian LifeChrist's Perfecting Work in BelieversImportance of Spiritual CommunionDrawing Near to God in SinResourcesHome with God - Releases February 11, 2025Follow Kyle - Kyleworley.netKnowing Faith PodcastTraining The ChurchFollow us on socialInstagram-- Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Oct 15, 2024 • 43min
Cultural Round Up: Bank Glitch, Fallen Pastors & The End Times
Join us on this episode of Culture Matters as we discuss some of the more recent headlines. From a viral TikTok "bank glitch", Beyoncé's CMA snub, celebrity christians and fallen pastors, to the VP debate and the war in Israel there is no shortage in hot topics. We try to navigate all of these headlines in a manner that points you to Jesus and hope.Topic DiscussedPerspective on Digital Trends and Modern CultureA Gospel View of Pastoral FailureEngaging in the Political Discourse and Global ConflictFollow us on socialInstagram-- Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co


