The Ephesiology Podcast

In this summer hiatus episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Michael and Andrew welcome—or perhaps ambush—Dave Brunelle into a conversation about spiritual formation, discipleship, and the life of Christ being formed in us. With humor, stories, and a few “under the bus” moments, the episode introduces Dave’s journey from public safety to church planting, mentoring, global ministry, and his work with...

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Michael T. Cooper and Andrew Johnson introduce Dr. Cooper’s seminar, “Let the Stones Speak,” part of the  Archaeology Meets Missiology  series. The conversation explores five archaeological discoveries that preserve early memories of Jesus across Asia Minor, North Africa, Edessa, and the Arabian Peninsula. From inscriptions and graffi...

What happens when a faithful church—commended by Jesus Himself—becomes the birthplace of one of the most controversial movements in early Christianity? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we journey to ancient Philadelphia in Asia Minor, a “gateway city” shaped by competing religious forces and cultural pressures. With limited archaeological data but rich literary and numismatic clues, we...

What if we’ve misunderstood one of Jesus’ most familiar commands? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, a simple but unsettling shift is explored: not “make disciples,” but  disciple as you are going . Drawing from a recent conversation between Dr. Tony Blair and Michael, Andrew and Michael reflect on how a closer reading of the Great Commission reframes our role, not as producers of di...

What happens when a movement that once presented the hope of Christ in a city… disappears? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael take you into the ruins of Pergamon—walking through the Asclepius healing complex, standing beneath the shadow of the Zeus–Trajan temple, and tracing inscriptions that once defined the religious life of the city. As we set up the field video from...

On this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we explore how archaeology, missiology, and the text of Luke-Acts converge to suggest that Theophilus may have been closer to the story than we’ve ever imagined. Drawing from the archaeological record—from inscriptions in the prytaneion to the civic roles of the Kouretes and temple officials—we explore a compelling possibility: Theophilus was a high-rank...

What if the greatest barrier to kingdom collaboration isn’t theology—but ego? In this episode, we sit down with leaders from GACX (Global Alliance for Church Multiplication) to explore a radically different vision of partnership—one that doesn’t begin with “what do I gain?” but with “what can I give?” From global church planting networks to theological education, we wrestle with a provocative idea...

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew Johnson shares an update as the podcast enters a short hiatus. While the hosts are away on assignment, Andrew invites you to revisit the rich archive of over 200 episodes—conversations that continue to challenge, encourage, and shape how we do theology in community. Looking ahead to 2026, he offers a glimpse of what’s coming next: renewed dialogue...

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew Johnson, Michael, and guest Lance Ford delve into the themes of church leadership, the disconnect between leadership and the body of Christ, and the systemic issues that plague modern church structures. They discuss the impact of Lance’s book, ‘The Atlas Factor,’ which emphasizes the need for a shift in leadership paradigms, focu...

In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, Andrew, Michael, and Matt are visited again by Mark Thiessen Nation, exploring the profound impact of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life and writings on contemporary Christianity. In this episode, our hosts talk to Mark about the dangers of nationalism within the church. They discuss the importance of robust discipleship, the role of the church in society,...

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew Johnson, Michael, and Matt Till engage with Dr. Steve Bezner, exploring the implications of Bonhoeffer’s theology for contemporary church leadership. They discuss the importance of maintaining a distinct Christian identity in a politically charged environment, the role of pastors in shepherding their congregations, and the need for deeper co...

In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, Andrew, Matt, and Michael welcome Watson Jones III, an executive pastor in Chicago, to discuss the current climate of shepherding in the city. They explore the challenges faced by the church in light of social issues, the historical context of the church’s role in society, and the shifts in ministry following the Black Lives Matter movement. Watson...

In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, Andrew, Michael, and Matt engage with Dr. Wes Watkins to explore the dynamics of church movements, the importance of understanding movements in a contemporary context, and the integration of Motus Dei with Missio Dei. They discuss the characteristics of movements, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the challenges posed by institutionalism. The conversation...

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Dr. Ralph Korner discusses the concept of ekklesia, its historical context, and its implications for the modern church. He emphasizes the importance of community, social justice, and the church’s role in society, arguing against a separatist mentality and advocating for active engagement with the world. The conversation explores how the early churc...

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew, Matt, and Michael engage in a deep conversation with Mark Thiessen Nation about the life and works of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. They explore Bonhoeffer’s stance on pacifism, the influence of Eberhard Bethge, and the misrepresentation of Bonhoeffer in popular media. The discussion delves into the complexities of Bonhoeffer’s ethics, his con...

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew, Michael, and Matt discuss the rise of end times predictions, particularly through social media platforms like TikTok. They explore the implications of these predictions, the historical context of prophecy, and the importance of focusing on Jesus’ mission rather than sensationalism. The conversation also touches on the dangers of careless co...

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, the hosts discuss the recent tragedy involving Charlie Kirk and the broader implications of gun violence in America. They explore the intersection of faith, politics, and violence, reflecting on the Christian response to such tragedies. The conversation emphasizes the need for love, justice, and a departure from divisive ideologies, calling for a return...

In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, hosts Andrew and Michael welcome back Matt Till as he takes on a new role focused on social justice and community engagement. The conversation explores the importance of integrating social justice into the church’s mission, reflecting on its historical significance within evangelicalism. Matt shares his personal journey and passion for justice, emp...

On this episode of the  Ephesiology Podcast , we mark a milestone of change, transition, and reflection. Michael and Andrew reunite—this time from  across international borders —as Andrew shares the exciting news of his move from Houston, Texas to Victoria, British Columbia. Hear the backstory behind his new pastoral role at West Village Church, a Soma-affiliated community passionate about gospel...

On this episode of  The 10-Minute Ephesiologist , Dr. Michael T. Cooper dives into the moment when movement gives way to rest—and when productivity in ministry gives rise to the deeper call of theological formation. After four years of relentless church planting in post-communist Romania, with seven churches launched and national leaders in place, Michael and Loré sensed a surprising shi...

In this compelling episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we continue our Archaeology Meets Missiology series with a deep dive into Tel Dan—one of Israel’s most significant archaeological sites. Dr. Jonathan Greer, archaeologist and biblical scholar, joins Andrew and Michael to discuss what the material record of Tel Dan reveals about ancient Israelite worship, the North-South religious divide,...

What if an ancient inscription could confirm a biblical figure’s existence—or even affirm the earliest Christian belief in Jesus as God? In this powerful of the Ephesiology Podcast, Michael and Andrew welcome field archaeologist Dr. Titus Kennedy to explore the intersections of archaeology and Scripture. From unearthing altars and human remains to discovering a seal impression that could bel...

After nearly four decades of research and patient anticipation, biblical scholar Dr. Clint Arnold joins the Ephesiology Podcast to reflect on his life’s work in the ancient city of Colossae—a city long buried but rich in theological relevance. In this fascinating episode, Dr. Arnold shares the backstory behind his groundbreaking scholarship on Colossians and Ephesians, the animistic and syncretist...

What happens when ancient roads, buried ruins, and early Christian communities collide with the modern missionary imagination? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Dr. Mark Wilson—renowned scholar and director of the Asia Minor Research Center—joins Michael and Andrew for a captivating journey where archaeology meets missiology. From walking the same Roman roads as the Apostle Paul to uncov...

Welcome to the 200th episode of the Ephesiology Podcast and our series  Christ in Your Context , where we explore why Jesus is good news—right where you are. In this milestone conversation, we’re joined by theologian, pastor, and cultural exegete Dr. David E. Fitch. Together, we unpack the complex cultural moment we inhabit and why presence—not programs—may be the most powerful witness the church...