The Ordinary Christian Podcast

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Bryant Sims, a former pastor and current employee of the South Carolina Baptist Convention. They discuss Bryant’s unique approach to evangelism through outdoor activities, particularly squirrel hunting, and how he has successfully integrated these interests into church outreach and men’s ministry. The conversation highlig...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson discusses international adoption with the Dowey family and representatives from Lifeline Children’s Services. They explore the challenges and joys of the adoption process, the impact of political decisions on international adoptions, and the importance of advocacy for families looking to adopt. The Dowey family’s personal journey hi...

Most people agree that learning, knowing, and applying the Bible is important, but it is can also be challenging. Few people believe they know enough of the Bible or that they really understand it as well as they could (or should). In this episode, Craig shares a few tips for learning and applying God’s word. Hint: it is not magic, and it does require some work, but you can do it!

Chances are you are listening to this because you are looking for steps to help you pray better. When Jesus’ disciples caught him in prayer in a “certain place,” they asked him, “Lord teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples to pray.” Jesus’s disciples never asked to be taught how to preach or teach. The Scripture does not mention the disciples ever asking Jesus to help them multiply loaves...

In this episode Craig interviews Barry Meguiar, the founder of a successful car care business who transitioned into a ministry focused on sharing faith. Barry shares his journey from a troubled past to a life dedicated to God, emphasizing the importance of joy, purpose, and everyday evangelism. He encourages listeners to see their daily lives as opportunities to share their faith and move others c...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Chris Grainger, the host of The Lion Within Us. Chris shares his journey of starting a men’s ministry, the importance of spiritual leadership, and how he uses his secular career to impact others for Christ. He discusses the challenges he faced, including personal struggles and the significance of encouragement in relation...

Where did Christmas trees come from? What is Hanukkah and how is it related to Christmas? Who was Boniface and what connection does he have to Thor? Learn these traditions and more in this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast.

In this episode, Craig emphasizes the necessity of having a personal mission plan to reach those around us, highlighting the responsibility of believers to share the gospel. He discusses the importance of discipleship and the call to be active missionaries in our communities. You can tell your story, so go do it. Takeaways You need a plan to reach your neighbors, friends, and family. If you don’t...

What is a Christian? Maybe in your culture, you have been led to believe that a Christian is someone who was born into a Christian family. Perhaps you think a Christian is someone who attends church. If you watch enough news, you might even believe that a Christian is someone who lives in a particular place or votes in a particular way. The Bible doesn’t define Christianity in any of these ways. O...

In this conversation, Craig and Paul Gutacker discuss the cultural myth surrounding the concept of absolute freedom and its implications on living a fulfilling life. He argues that the idea of living without constraints or obligations is misleading and ultimately detrimental. Drawing on biblical references, he emphasizes that true freedom involves recognizing and adhering to moral and ethical resp...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson discusses his new book,  Fighting for Your Family.  He shares the inspiration behind the book, emphasizing the importance of fighting for one’s family rather than against them. Craig covers themes of spiritual warfare, the role of leadership and commitment in marriage, the impact of physical health on family dynamics, and practical...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Boyd Bailey, president of the Georgia chapter of the National Christian Foundation and author of  The Power of Generosity.  They explore the multifaceted nature of generosity, emphasizing that it extends beyond financial contributions to include acts of kindness, hospitality, and the sharing of time and attention. Boyd sh...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the significance of joining a local church rather than merely attending. He emphasizes the accountability, community, and spiritual growth that come from being an active member of a church. The conversation explores the biblical basis for church membership, the role of the church in a believer’s life, and practical reasons for comm...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson discusses the importance of defining the mission of the church amidst cultural disagreements and challenges. He emphasizes the need for Christians to resist secular influences that seek to redefine their mission, focusing on the imperatives of loving God and making disciples. The conversation explores the characteristics of modern c...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig reflects on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the implications of violence against free speech. He discusses the cultural division in America, the importance of healthy debate, and the role of Christians in public discourse. Emphasizing the need for open conversations, Craig encourages listeners to engage with differing viewpoints while...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the increasing church attendance among millennials and Gen Z and emphasizes the importance of small groups for spiritual growth and community. He encourages listeners to actively participate in small groups to foster relationships, accountability, and deeper understanding of God’s Word. The conversation highlights the need for conn...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig talks with David Mathis, a senior teacher and executive editor at  Desiring God  to discuss David’s new book,  A Little Theology of Exercise . The conversation covers David’s journey in integrating physical exercise with his Christian faith, emphasizing the importance of caring for our bodies as a means to serve God and others. Mathis shares...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the significance of baptism in the Christian faith. He addresses common questions from new believers and those transitioning from other denominations, emphasizing that baptism is an act of obedience following a profession of faith. Craig also explains the Baptist perspective on baptism by immersion, its symbolism, and its role as a...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Dr. Brian Chappell about his book, ‘The Multi-Generational Church Crisis.’ They discuss the challenges and opportunities of fostering a multi-generational church, the differing perspectives of various age groups, and the importance of intergenerational relationships in faith development. Dr. Chappell emphasizes the need f...

In this episode, Craig encourages listeners to embrace challenges and do hard things as a means of personal and spiritual growth. He discusses the importance of physical health, the development of personal disciplines, and how facing discomfort can prepare individuals for future challenges. The conversation emphasizes that doing hard things is not only beneficial for personal development but also...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses the often-avoided topic of death, emphasizing its inevitability and the importance of preparing for it. He reflects on recent deaths of notable figures and personal acquaintances, highlighting the need for Christians to engage in conversations about mortality and judgment. The episode stresses the significance of living purposefull...

Travis Agnew  is the pastor of  Rocky Creek Baptist Church  in Greenville, SC and is the author of  several books . On this episode of the podcast, Travis talks about his book,  The Freshman 15 : How to put the weight on in all the right places. We discuss the strategies college freshmen can use to direct their devotion to the things of the Lord rather than the things of the world. We talk about t...

In this episode, Craig speaks with Chris Hefner to discuss their experiences at the Southern Baptist Convention’s annual meeting. They explore the structure and governance of the Southern Baptist Convention, the significance of the Cooperative Program, and the highlights from the meeting, including updates on missionaries and the role of seminaries. They also address the North American Mission Boa...

In this episode, Craig interviews Jerrad Lopes, the host of the  Dad Tired Podcast . They discuss Jerrad journey of faith, the struggles he faced in his marriage, and how these experiences led to the creation of the Dad Tired ministry. The conversation explores the importance of healing for men, the evolution of the Dad Tired ministry over the years, and the significance of community in supporting...

In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig discusses effective strategies for churches to engage and reach the next generation with the gospel. He emphasizes the importance of welcoming children and families, investing in youth ministry, and creating a safe and inviting environment. Craig shares insights from his own church’s experiences and encourages listeners to take an active rol...