Season 3
Craig Allison sits down with Christian Turner, a nursing major from Chattanooga, to discuss the importance of small group Bible studies and community in the church, particularly for college students. The conversation explores Christian's personal experiences with faith challenges, the role of small groups in fostering relationships, and how these groups can serve as a crucial component for church growth and discipleship among younger demographics. They also touch on overcoming the pressures of future uncertainties and peer perceptions while maintaining a solid faith foundation. 00:19 Getting to Know Christian Turner 04:06 The Appeal of Small Group Bible Studies 06:14 The Role of Small Groups in Church 14:56 Challenges to Faith in College 19:11 Keeping College Students Engaged in Church 27:36 The Importance of Community and Activities 37:01 Final Thoughts and Favorite Bible Verse
In this episode Craig is joined by Blaik Owens, a transfer student from Memphis, Tennessee, who is majoring in psychology at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Blaik shares her academic journey, her love for playing the flute and ultimate frisbee, and her aspirations to specialize in speech language pathology for pediatric special needs. Craig and Blaik discuss the reasons behind the drift from faith among college students, the importance of owning one's faith, the role of supportive church communities, and the cultural pitfalls faced on campuses today. 00:33 Blaik's Background and Interests 02:08 Podcast Name and Craig's Book 03:01 Blaik's Academic Journey 03:41 Speech Pathology and Personal Stories 07:01 The Role of Faith in College 14:35 Challenges to Faith and Critical Thinking 19:22 Navigating Morality in Modern Work Culture 19:58 The Impact of Language and Desensitization 20:23 Challenges to Faith in College 26:00 The Role of Youth Programs in Faith Development 33:10 The Importance of Community in Church 36:20 Final Thoughts and Reflections
In this episode, Craig sits down with Jason Brazier, a licensed clinical pastoral therapist and Clinical Director at Chattanooga Christian Services. Craig and Jason address the epidemic of pornography, its widespread effects, and the urgent need for churches to speak out and offer support. They discuss the limitations of traditional church settings and the significance of small groups and intimate discussions. The episode finishes with practical advice for creating healthy family dynamics and habitual, meaningful connections around tables both at home and in church settings. This episode is a must-listen for parents, church leaders, and anyone involved in youth ministry. 01:46 Journey from Youth Ministry to Therapy 03:09 Challenges and Realities of Youth Ministry 12:15 The Epidemic of Pornography 19:02 Addressing Pornography with Children 22:56 The Church's Response to Pornography 33:33 The Impact of Technology on Family Dynamics 34:39 Church's Role in Addressing Mental Health 36:10 Modeling Healthy Habits in a Digital Age 40:25 Challenges of Parenting in the Digital Era 41:56 Church's Responsibility in Combating Addictions 49:06 Addressing Mental Health Concerns in Youth 55:47 The Importance of Family Connection 01:00:46 Resources for Christian Counseling Links from the Episode: Habits of the Household: Practicing the Story of God in Everyday Family Rhythms https://a.co/d/7blRPRj The Life We're Looking For: Reclaiming Relationship in a Technological World https://a.co/d/gzyJlWs
Join Craig this week as he sits down with Tahlia Clark, a student ambassador at the Christian Student Center at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Tahlia shares her experiences balancing faith and the theater world. They discuss the challenges of being a Christian in a predominantly non-biblical culture, the impact of a toxic church environment on faith, and how students can grow spiritually in college. Plus, Tahlia educates us on the origins of the phrase 'break a leg' in theater. 01:00 Tahlia's Background and Education 01:15 Acting and Theater Insights 06:28 Navigating Faith in the Theater World 16:56 Challenges and Future Plans 21:24 Advice for College Students 28:38 Closing Thoughts and Bible Verse
This week, Craig welcomes Cory Mattox, a sophomore at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga studying civil engineering. Cory's journey with faith, his activities at the Christian Student Center (CSC), and the pivotal moments that ignited his commitment to Christianity bare center in conversation. Cory also shares the challenges college students face in maintaining their faith and how authentic connections and intentionality can make a difference. Additionally, Cory reflects on the dynamics of balancing his role as a student ambassador with his personal life, including his relationship with fellow ambassador Tahlia. 01:11 Cory's Faith Journey 03:53 Becoming a Student Ambassador 05:22 The Importance of Friendships in Faith 06:51 Cory's Personal Life and Relationships 11:59 Challenges of College Faith 21:19 The Role of the Church and Authenticity 35:55 Navigating Relationships with Different Worldviews
In this episode Craig welcomes Emily Bruce, a junior at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Emily shares her personal journey and challenges of being a Christian at a secular university. They discuss Emily's role as a student ambassador at the Christian Student Center, her diverse religious background, and the impact of her faith on her college experience. The episode also delves into broader themes such as the importance of genuine faith, the struggles young Christians face, and the need for churches to be open and accepting. Emily talks about building a relationship with God, the significance of community, and the pitfalls of fear-based teachings. Tune in for an honest conversation about faith, relationships, and navigating life as a young Christian. 00:23 Emily's Background and Aspirations 01:26 First Year as a Student Ambassador 03:07 Emily's Spiritual Journey 04:40 Challenges of Being a Christian in College 13:13 Misconceptions About Sin and Faith 19:33 Building a Relationship with God 26:35 Church Culture and Inclusivity 36:34 Final Thoughts and Favorite Scripture
In this episode, Craig brings on Jacob Haustein, a civil engineering student at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a student ambassador at the Christian Student Center. Geotechnical engineering, the challenges of maintaining faith on a secular campus, and the influence of modern technology and culture on spiritual warfare are just some of todays topics. Jacob shares his own journey of finding faith and the struggles faced by college students today, while also discussing how how church leaders can better engage and retain young believers. Tune in for an eye-opening episode that addresses the complex interplay between faith, culture, and personal growth. 01:39 Understanding Geotechnical Engineering 04:25 Student Ambassador Role and Responsibilities 08:02 Challenges of Christian Students at Secular Universities 08:30 Spiritual Warfare on Campus 13:06 Inclusivity and Outreach in Christian Groups 19:24 Personal Faith Journey and CSC Impact 21:35 Deep Dive into Faith and Knowledge 22:55 The Shallow Approach to Deconstruction 23:23 Facing Hard Questions with Courage 24:01 Satan's Influence on Modern Culture 24:55 The Ubiquity of Pornography 26:32 Gender and Relationships in Today's Society 37:22 The Role of Technology in Cultural Shifts 39:44 Challenges of Keeping College Students Faithful 42:53 Advice for Church Leaders 51:26 Concluding Thoughts and Favorite Scripture
In this episode, Craig Allison and Matt Wallin, deacon at Oak Hill Church of Christ, discuss the dynamics of modern evangelism, Matt's journey through mission work in China, and his extensive background in ministry. They talk about personal experiences with evangelism and the mission field, the importance of intentionality in outreach, and the balance between doctrine and practical application. Matt covers topics such as personal responsibility in evangelism, the potential for growth in the Church, and practical ways to activate mission-focused action in everyday life. 01:07 Fireworks and Funny Stories 02:58 Family Life and Marriage 03:59 Basketball Debate: Jordan vs. LeBron 05:38 Mission Work in China 09:29 Joining House to House, Heart to Heart 13:52 Evangelism and Church Growth 24:13 Unexpected Beginnings in Ministry 24:37 The Power of Personal Evangelism 26:00 Challenges of Modern Evangelism 27:00 A Tale of Two Christian Approaches 29:55 Learning from Experience 32:44 Intentional Evangelism 38:05 The Future of the Church
This week Craig welcomes Andy Baumburger, the pulpit minister at Rossville Church of Christ. Andy shares his story, childhood aspirations to becoming a minister, the challenges he faces, the influence of his family, and his outlook on the future of the Church in Chattanooga. They also delve into the role of intergenerational relationships, the importance of equipping the saints, and the enduring presence of God in times of suffering. 00:25 Andy's Background and Ministry Journey 01:10 Life in Massachusetts 01:57 Calling to Ministry and Early Influences 03:43 Challenges and Rewards of Ministry 09:45 Personal Life and Engagement 13:16 Family and Personal Loss 17:33 Faith and Coping with Loss 28:15 Church Challenges and Future Vision 44:49 Closing Thoughts and Final Scripture
In the season three opener, Craig hits the road to Atlanta, Georgia, to visit guest Paul Spurlin. They discuss the critical roles of youth ministry and parental involvement in nurturing a child's spiritual growth. Paul, who serves as the Connections Minister at Piedmont Road Church of Christ, shares his experiences in ministry and offers his opinion on balancing family life with ministry obligations. The episode also delves into the development and purpose of the Ministry League app, Exposure Youth Camp, and the challenges faced by youth and parents in today's spiritual landscape. 00:48 Road Trip to Atlanta 01:03 Meet Paul Spurlin 01:58 Paul's Ministry Journey 03:14 Family Life and Navy Experience 04:57 Balancing Ministry and Family 10:15 Adventures in Ministry and Ministry League 12:55 Exposure Youth Camp (EYC) 20:22 Youth Ministry Insights 22:58 Parents' Role in Youth Ministry 26:33 The Busy Lives of Modern Families 27:51 The Role of Church Leadership in Family Life 29:39 Challenges Faced by Youth Ministers 31:24 The Importance of Parental Involvement 36:36 The Impact of Social Media on Youth 44:17 Ministry League and Resources for Parents 48:32 Closing Thoughts and Scripture