Life on the West Side

What are the essentials of the faith? How do we teach our members and remember them ourselves? We can look at the recurring themes in the speeches in Acts, or the 7 ones of Ephesians 4, or the basic elements laid out in the early Christian creeds. But what if those same basic elements are displayed dramatically in our baptism? In this ninth episode (and part 2 of our "theologically grounded&q...

Theology is the pursuit of believing right and true things about God. This involves reading Scripture, studying church history, and engaging with Christians throughout the ages in reasoned reflection. Why is theology so important, and what value does it have for the church? In this eighth episode, we consider how theology provides a framework for uncovering the central truths of the Christian fait...

Scripture First. Sounds easy. But what does it look like for a stand-alone class as well as an entire adult ministry program to be "biblically rooted"? In this seventh episode, I sit down with a world-class theologian and get his take on the importance of putting Scripture first, and helping others learn to love the Bible. My featured guest today is Dr. Keith Stanglin.  Keith is a profes...

What does it look like to be in a ministry that equips and empowers members? In this sixth episode, we interview a Spiritual Formations minister who provides some encouragement to be on mission to spark passion in people for ministry. My guest today is Seth Madaris.  Seth serves as the Minister of Spiritual Formation at the Gateway Church of Christ in Pensacola, Florida.  Seth began his career as...

What are some simple ways to transform your classroom into a welcome space for first-time visitors? In this fifth episode, we answer this question--for both in-person or virtual classes--while addressing the importance of anticipating the perceptions and needs of both visitors and members you want to invite into a deeper relationship with Christ. Segments of this episode feature quotes from Josh K...

What does it take for an entire church or ministry program to be on mission ? In this fourth episode, we are asking a ministry couple who's mission statement--" Live Love "--defined every aspect of their church. My guests today are Justin & Jennifer Gerhardt.  For 10 years, Justin served as the preaching minister for the Round Rock Church of Christ, and is now the creator and ho...

Who are adult learners and how can you best provide what they need ? In this third episode, we are laying out five things adult learners ARE, two things they are NOT, several things they WANT, and nine essential things they NEED. Sections of this podcast feature Justin & Jennifer Gerhardt.  For 10 years, Justin served as the preaching minister for the Round Rock Church of Christ, and is now th...

What does it look like for an adult education program to be intentional about the mission of Jesus ? In this second episode, we lay out the broad vision--modeled on Matthew 28--of a program centered on inviting others to start their journey with Christ, grow in grace and knowledge, and lead others into greater discipleship. In this episode, we cover several key topics including: Why is adult educa...

What are the essential ingredients in a healthy adult education ministry? In this first podcast, we answer this while also laying out our own core principles and values as a ministry team at Sherrod Avenue as we pursue developing a full-fledged comprehensive program that glorifies Jesus and changes lives.  My guest today is Josh Kingcade, Education Minister at the Memorial Road Church of Christ in...