Against the Grain

The end times could be a source of hope as we look forward to the coming of the Lord, or it could be a source of fear in the face of such uncertainty. In this episode, Eric and Brian discuss a few views of how Jesus' return could play out. Take a listen and dive into learning more about anticipating the Day of the Lord. Show Notes: Revelation Study Discipleship on the Edge by Darrell Johnson F...

The idea of spiritual warfare can be complex and overwhelming. Often in our culture, we combat this by ignoring it completely. Scripture urges us against this and encourages us to press into truth seek to understand how to armor up against spiritual attacks. In this episode, Eric, Thayne and Cindy discuss how we can recognize the presence of evil in the world and live against the grain in how we d...

Money matters. The Bible mentions finances over 2,300 times, and Jesus devoted 11 of his 39 parables to the subject. But what does a counter-cultural approach to money actually look like? In this episode of Against the Grain, Eric and Vince explore how biblical wisdom challenges our modern relationship with finances and invites us to live differently.

Being a parent in this cultural moment is tough. The biggest danger for our kids is the ideas that bombard them from every direction. How do we equip our kids to see through the lies of our culture and see things biblically? Andrea Crum joins Eric and Courtney to discuss this question. She is the Author of "Christ over Culture” and organizer of the Raising Biblical Kids Conference.  Show Note...

In a world that tends to value quantity of friendships over quality, one way that we live against the grain is in the close, meaningful friendships we intentionally cultivate. In this episode, Eric, Ross, and John explore what it looks like to both have and actively pursue godly friendships. This episode explores deep, Christ-centered relationships, the importance of vulnerability and accountabili...

Conflict is an unavoidable part of being human—you've probably already faced it at least once today. Our culture typically pushes us toward one of two extremes: viewing conflict as a competition where we fight for our way, or avoiding it altogether. Yet neither approach brings us closer to peace or genuine unity. In this episode, Eric, Steve & Jessica examine Scripture and the life and tea...

As we look around, we often find ourselves discontent, focused on what we don’t have or don’t t get to do. It is so easy to get stuck in this trap.  How do we turn that around and move toward contentment? How do find freedom and joy in our life? 

Being slow to speak and slow to become angry is much easier said than done. Each day we are confronted with situations that spark us to anger in work, parenting, marriages and relationships in general. In this episode, Eric, Can, and Carmen discuss how we can break the anger cycle as we follow Jesus' example to move forward in love.

Faith is the assurance of what we cannot see, but that doesn't mean it's a blind faith. There is evidence for our faith all around us, fingerprints left by a designer. In this episode, Eric, Jason and Rick take a close look into the world around us to examine the evidence that leads us to a common understanding of a creative designer.

Living a life of service extends far beyond than the occasional service project. A life of service calls us to live against the grain in how we view our time and resources, at every stage of life. In this episode, Eric, Joe and Randy discuss how to cultivate a lifestyle dedicated to serving others.

We are officially back to school, which for many families means back to hectic morning routines and activity filled evenings. In the midst of family life, how can we as parents create rhythms that build a culture of faith within our families? How do you run your schedule so your schedule doesn't run you? In this episode, Eric, Jermaine and Laura discuss rhythms that establish praise in your househ...

One of the most tragic things we see in this world is kids who have lost their parents. This happens across the world, as well as right here in our community. As followers of Jesus, God calls us to take care of the vulnerable - especially orphans. It seems He has a special heart for the fatherless. How can we get involved in helping these vulnerable kids? Mike Douris from Orphan Outreach has spent...

"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him." James 1:12-15 As followers of Christ, we will be faced with temptations and desires that are against the heart of the Lord. What does it look like to battle temptation and fight against the flesh? What does it look like to choo...

Trials aren't a matter of if —they're a matter of when . We all face moments that bring us to our knees: devastating diagnoses, fractured relationships, crushing losses, and countless other heartaches that derail our carefully laid plans. But as followers of Jesus, how do we navigate these dark valleys? How do we maintain an eternal perspective when our present reality feels overwhelming?...

Change is inevitable. At every stage of life, we encounter shifts and circumstances beyond our control. In this episode, Courtney, Evan, and Jessica explore how to navigate change well and support others through difficult transitions. In a world of constant flux, there's hope in unchanging constants we can hold onto: God's character, His Word, and His promises. Join us as we find comfort,...

In a culture obsessed with climbing ladders and promoting ourselves, followers of Christ are called to a radically different path—one of servanthood. Instead of fixating on our own needs and advancement, we're invited to shift our focus outward, seeking to serve those around us. Join Kevin, Lorraine, and Brian as they explore what it means to serve not just well, but exceptionally—going above and...

At any stage in our lives, sports often take up a large portion of our time, energy and focus. What if we began to view the sports field as a mission field? In this game-changing episode, Jordan, Seth & Evan tackle how to integrate faith into the competitive world of sports. They dive into combating the pride that comes with athletic achievement, exploring how to live radically different lives...

Parenting teens comes with its own unique set of challenges. Your teen is facing a constant pull to follow the culture of this world. In this episode, Eric, Lauren & Jermaine discuss how to come alongside your teen to help them live against the grain.

How do you identify your spiritual gifts? What's the difference between natural talents and spiritual gifts? How should spiritual gifts be used within the church and in everyday life? Understanding your spiritual gifting can help you unlock how He has called you to serve. In this episode, Evan, Michelle and Eric discuss spiritual gifts and the many questions that surround this topic. Whether y...

Join us for a powerful conversation about the hope of Jesus that’s igniting hearts and transforming lives in some of the most unlikely places. In this episode, Eric, Travis, and Lauren sit down to discuss the incredible work God is doing through  God Behind Bars —a ministry that’s bringing healing, redemption, and lasting change to incarcerated individuals across the country. Whether you're cu...

Why would someone leave everything they know and move to live with a people across the world? For so many, the idea of becoming a global worker is daunting and impossible. In this episode, Eric, Arnaldo & a global worker guest discuss how we can cultivate a heart for the nations- from moving overseas to opportunities to reach the nations in our own neighborhood.

Prayer is foundational and vital to Christian living, however it can also be confusing and abstract. In this episode Lorraine, Sonja and Eric discuss growing a vibrant prayer life, the effects of prayer on our hearts and how to grow your faith through prayer.

No matter where you are in your faith journey, the idea of sharing your faith can be daunting. It's tempting to think that sharing the Gospel with others should be done by those who are better at it. The truth is, all believers are called to share the faith BOLDLY. In this episode, Eric, Tommy & Jamie discuss sharing the faith courageously. Show notes: 8 Ways & Discipleship Resources

Today’s generation of 18-35 year olds are facing unique challenges as they navigate being young adults in this culture. Whether you are a young adult yourself or have a young adult in your life, this episode is for you! While the life stages vary across this age range, from college students to becoming new parents, they are all learning to navigate the future while navigating the culture of this w...

The workplace is one of the biggest mission fields out there- and you are uniquely positioned for that field. In this episode, Bobby, Aubrie and Eric discuss how faith impacts work and how that can be leveraged that for the Kingdom. From jobs in leadership to entry level positions to working remotely, your job is a mission field waiting to be reached.