Things Above

James Bryan Smith’s thought from above this week is, “learn the unforced rhythms of grace.” In this episode, James discusses four questions that Dallas Willard says all humans must ask and should answer. The first question is, what is real? The second question is, who is truly well off? The third question is, who is […] The post Rhythms of Grace appeared first on Apprentice Institute.

Richard Foster, a renowned Christian author known for his influential book 'Celebration of Discipline,' teams up with Brenda Quinn, a pastor dedicated to spiritual formation. They delve into the essence of humility, emphasizing its development through selfless service. The conversation highlights the transformative power of humility in personal growth amidst today's narcissistic culture. They share insights from the intricate writing process of Foster's latest work, 'Learning Humility,' while reflecting on how this virtue integrates into Christian faith and communal life.

James Bryan Smith’s thought from above this week is God is Glorious. In this episode, James talks about a recent challenge he gave himself. Interested in donating to the Things Above Podcast? Donate here! Learn more about the Christian Spiritual Formation degree Scholarship at Friends University! Related Episodes: 1. Magnificent Mission 2. Conversation with AJ […] The post God is Glorious appeared first on Apprentice Institute.

James Bryan Smith’s thought from above in this episode is, we are all on a magnificent mission. This week James discusses what Dallas Willard calls the “Great Ommission” and the Great “Commission.” In this episode, James explains how we are all called to be apprentices of Jesus and what that means for us. Interested in […] The post Magnificent Mission appeared first on Apprentice Institute.

AJ Swoboda discusses embracing doubt as a catalyst for faith and the importance of questioning beliefs. They explore Jesus' parables challenging norms and navigating faith crises. Swoboda highlights the significance of spiritual growth and a scholarship opportunity at Friend's University.

James Bryan Smith’s thought from above this week is, “the kingdom of God is the with-God life.” James opens the episode with a story about a time he was a teaching assistant for Dallas Willard. Dallas asked the class the question, what is the gospel? In the episode, Smith explains the gospel and how we […] The post With God Life appeared first on Apprentice Institute.

James Bryan Smith’s thought from above this week is, “Give the best gift you can give.” In light of the advent season, Smith gives us an example of the best gift we can give someone. James says the best we can give is not something money can buy. To help explain his thought from above, […] The post The Best Gift appeared first on Apprentice Institute.

James Bryan Smith has a Things Above conversation with Matt Tebbe and Ben Sternke about their latest book, Having the Mind of Christ: Eight Axioms to Cultivate a Robust Faith. Matt and Ben are the cofounders of Gravity Leadership, located in Indiana. Matt and Ben co-authored “Having the Mind of Christ” and it addresses one […] The post Conversation with Matt Tebbe and Ben Sternke appeared first on Apprentice Institute.

James Bryan Smith’s thought from above this week is, “you are called.” In this episode, James talks about vocational calling and its impact on our life. Many have felt they are called to a specific job, while others may have never felt that calling. Smith explains how no matter the vocation or the calling, we […] The post You are Called appeared first on Apprentice Institute.

James Bryan Smith’s thought from above this week is, “you have a sacred story.” In this episode, James explains how we all have an origin story that has shaped us into the person we are today. In our origin story, we encounter trauma, and Smith explains the difference between what he calls “small t” trauma […] The post Sacred Story appeared first on Apprentice Institute.