Against the Grain

God is doing incredible things in our city, and there are more ways than ever to be part of it. But with so many areas to serve and so many volunteer opportunities, it’s easy to focus on the tasks and lose sight of the real people on the other side of them. Serving opens the door to relationships we may never have otherwise, and gives us the chance to connect with our neighbors on a deeper level.

In this episode, Eric, Lauren, and Amy share the impact they’ve seen while serving in Grapevine, Texas, and how these opportunities have helped love our city well. Whether you’re looking for ways to get involved or have served for years, you’ll walk away encouraged to see people, not just projects.

Keywords: serving the community, volunteer opportunities, Grapevine Texas, Grapevine volunteering, loving your city, church community outreach, serving others, Christian service, local ministry, community impact, faith in action, neighbors, church podcast, Christian podcast, volunteer ministry, city outreach

"Missions" isn't just what happens in foreign countries across the globe. Missions is a life calling to make disciples and share the hope of Christ with everyone in our path, from your neighbor to your coworker to the stranger in line at the coffee shop.

In this episode, Eric, Amy, and Kevin explore what it looks like to live on mission right where you are. They dig into local mission opportunities, the real impact of stepping out of your comfort zone, and how to live intentionally for the Gospel in everyday life. Whether you're a seasoned missionary or simply wondering how to start, you'll walk away encouraged and equipped to see your own community as a mission field.

Press play, and discover how ordinary moments can become extraordinary opportunities to love others and point them to Jesus.

Keywords: local missions, Christian podcast, living on mission, making disciples, sharing the Gospel, evangelism, mission field, comfort zone, intentional living, hope of Christ, Christian discipleship, everyday missionary, church outreach, faith podcast, Great Commission, community outreach

In a culture that glorifies busyness, taking one intentional day of rest each week feels almost countercultural. We fill our "off days" with grocery runs, house chores, and errands, chasing productivity even when we're supposed to be resting. But what if we were never meant to live that way?

In this episode, Eric, Andrew, and Beth unpack the importance and value of the Sabbath like why it matters, what it really means, and how to reclaim it in a world that never stops. They share practical ways to build intentional rest into your week and challenge you to rethink what a true day of rest can look like. Get ready to get serious about the Sabbath and start practicing it in your everyday life.

Keywords: Sabbath, Sabbath rest, intentional rest, rest day, biblical rest, Christian podcast, Sabbath practice, spiritual rest, rhythms of rest, faith and rest, work-life balance, Christian rest day

More Than a Song: Redefining True Worship

Worship isn't confined to the opening set before the sermon. It's a lifestyle, a posture, and a practice that stretches far beyond the stage. In this episode, Eric, Cam, and Caleb dig into what worship really means, why it matters more than we often realize, and practical ways to grow in how we praise the Lord.

Whether you've sung worship songs your whole life or you're just starting to explore your faith, this conversation will challenge the way you think about worship and invite you into a deeper, more meaningful practice of it. Get ready to see worship in a whole new light.

Keywords: worship, true worship, what is worship, Christian worship, worship music, praise and worship, worship lifestyle, biblical worship, Christian podcast, faith and worship, growing in faith, worshiping God

You have skills and gifts. Are you using them with kingdom purpose?

Your position on the corporate ladder doesn't determine your impact. You don't have to be the boss to be a leader, and your influence on the people around you may be far greater than you realize.

In this episode, Eric sits down with Jim Greenwood and Payton Mayes, CEOs and business leaders, to talk about how the book of Nehemiah has shaped the way they lead their companies and their people. Their stories will inspire and equip you to take a fresh look at your own life and spheres of influence, and to steward your God-given gifts and skills for a purpose far bigger than your job description.

Keywords: Christian leadership, Nehemiah leadership lessons, book of Nehemiah, faith and work, kingdom purpose, Christian CEO, Christian business leaders, marketplace ministry, leadership podcast, biblical leadership, workplace leadership, servant leadership, God-given gifts and talents, spheres of influence, calling and career, leading with purpose, Payton Mayes, Jim Greenwood

Unlocking the Bible: A Practical Guide to Reading Scripture with ConfidenceThe Word of God is alive and powerful—but let's be honest, opening the Bible can feel overwhelming, whether you're a lifelong believer or just starting your faith journey. The truth is, every time you dive into scripture, there's something new waiting to be discovered.As Christians, engaging deeply with the Bible isn't just a suggestion, it's part of our calling. But how do you actually do that well? Where do you even start?In this episode, Eric and Vince break down practical, actionable ways to read the Bible with purpose and confidence. They cover where to begin if you're feeling lost or intimidated, simple strategies for building a consistent reading habit, and how to move from surface-level reading to real understanding.Whether you've read the Bible cover to cover or you're cracking it open for the first time, this conversation will equip you with tools to engage scripture in a way that's meaningful, sustainable, and transformative.Tune in and rediscover the power of God's Word.Keywords: how to read the Bible, Bible study tips, Christian podcast, scripture reading guide, Bible for beginners, faith and spirituality, understanding the Bible, daily devotional habits, Christian growth, Bible reading plan

Your Neighborhood Is Bigger Than You Think

In this episode, Eric, Jhejuda, and Kevin dig into the incredible ministry happening right in our own backyard — from cross-cultural friendships to pick-up soccer games that are becoming powerful tools for reaching people well.

Loving your neighbor doesn't stop at the house next door. It reaches the person you sit beside at a soccer tournament, the people at your gym in the morning, and everyone God places in your path. Here in the DFW area, the nations have come to us, and our neighborhoods will never look the same.

Keywords: neighborhood ministry, loving your neighbor, DFW ministry, cross-cultural outreach, nations in DFW, community outreach podcast, missions at home, soccer ministry, everyday evangelism, local missions, reaching your community, faith and community, DFW podcast, gospel outreach, urban missions

Is Christian faith a blind leap, or is there evidence pointing to a Creator?

In this episode, Eric, Rick, Brian and Jason explore the evidence for design throughout nature, the human body, and the universe. From DNA and biological complexity to the fine-tuning of the cosmos, we consider why the order and purpose we see in creation point beyond chance and toward an intelligent Designer.

We also discuss how worldview assumptions shape the way we interpret evidence and how Christians can engage skeptics with humility, curiosity, and thoughtful questions. Ultimately, the evidence of creation invites us not only to greater confidence in our faith, but to greater awe of the God who created it all.

Topics: Design, science and faith, DNA, irreducible complexity, fine-tuning, materialism, apologetics, engaging skeptics.

Is Christianity supported by evidence, or is faith simply believing without proof? Many people struggle with questions about faith because so much of the Christian life requires trusting what we cannot see. Yet biblical faith is not blind faith. Christians can confidently embrace both faith and facts, knowing that the evidence surrounding the Christian faith is undeniable.

In this episode, Eric, Rick, and Jason discuss why every believer should develop a foundation in Christian apologetics. They explore how apologetics strengthens personal faith, helps Christians respond to difficult questions, and equips believers to clearly articulate and defend the truth of the Gospel in an increasingly skeptical culture.

Whether you're new to apologetics or looking to grow in your confidence when discussing your beliefs, this conversation offers practical insights for building a stronger foundation and engaging others with truth, grace, and conviction.

Key topics:

Christian apologetics, evidence for Christianity, defending your faith, faith and reason, Christian worldview, biblical truth, apologetics for beginners, how to defend Christianity, reasons to believe in God, Christian podcast, evangelism, discipleship.

As culture grows increasingly hostile to the Word of God, how do we stand firm in our convictions without wavering? What is the foundation of a boldness that would walk into the lion's den for the sake of truth?

In this episode, Eric and Rachel explore the book of Daniel, unpacking its historical significance, the details we often overlook as modern readers, and how this ancient story is meant to shape the way we live today. If you want a faith that is courageous, countercultural, and grounded in something unshakeable, this conversation is for you.

Keywords: book of Daniel, bold faith, biblical courage, Christian podcast, Daniel and the lion's den, standing firm in faith, countercultural Christianity, Old Testament study, faith under pressure, Bible study podcast, Christian living, conviction and culture, Eric and Rachel, Scripture and everyday life

What if the spiritual hunger you feel is actually God's invitation to something greater? In this episode, Eric and Tyler unpack how broken young people struggling with isolation and hidden sins are finding real transformation through a "wide call, high call" approach: everyone is welcome, nothing is held back. Drawing from Luke 14's banquet parable, Tyler introduces his three A's framework for discipleship that fits naturally into the life you're already living. Ask their story. Articulate your own. Address topics biblically. No new program required. Whether you're a leader, a parent, or a mentor, this conversation will challenge and equip you to disciple the people already around you. Don't miss this practical roadmap to spiritual transformation.

Keywords: discipleship, spiritual growth, mentorship, men's ministry, sexual addiction recovery, isolation, Luke 14, faith-based leadership, parenting with purpose, biblical counseling, spiritual transformation, Christian podcast, how to disciple, young men and faith, practical Christianity

Exhort, Challenge, Grow: How Intentional Relationships Fuel Lasting Personal Growth

Growth doesn't happen in isolation. Whether you're pursuing personal development, spiritual growth, or professional transformation, the relationships around you matter more than you might think.

In this episode, Eric, Becky, and Brandon unpack what it really means to exhort one another, to speak truth, offer encouragement, and issue a genuine charge toward growth. This isn't surface-level accountability. It's the kind of deep, intentional relationship that actually moves the needle.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why personal growth requires community, not just commitment
• What it means to "exhort and charge" someone in truth, and how to do it well
• How to build intentional relationships that create space for honest, growth-focused conversations
• The difference between sustainable growth and short-term change

Becky and Brian bring a wealth of experience as leadership coaches, working daily with individuals and teams to cultivate lasting, transformational growth. Their coaching philosophy centers on walking alongside people, not pushing from behind or pulling from ahead, but partnering in the process.

If you've been trying to grow on your own and feeling stuck, this episode is for you.

Show notes:

Learn more about Undefeated Growth: https://undefeatedgrowth.com/

Keywords: personal growth podcast, leadership coaching, intentional relationships, Christian accountability, spiritual growth, transformational coaching, life coaching, exhort one another, sustainable growth, truth in relationships, personal development, growth mindset, coaching podcast, faith and leadership

Mother's Day gets one day, but motherhood is every day.

The flowers fade and the brunch ends, but the calling of a mother never takes a day off. In this episode, Laura, Haley, and Holly pull back the curtain on the real, beautiful, and sometimes messy journey of motherhood — and how a living faith can anchor you through all of it.

Whether you're in the thick of toddler tantrums, navigating the teenage years, or somewhere in between, this conversation is your reminder that you are not alone. Together, they explore how faith shapes the way we parent, how to lead our families with intention and grace, and how to find genuine joy even in the hardest seasons of motherhood.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How faith directly influences your parenting style and decisions
• Practical ways to engage and connect more deeply with your family
• How to cultivate joy in the midst of motherhood's everyday trials
• Encouragement for the moments when you feel like you're falling short

This is the episode every mom needs , not just on Mother's Day, but on a random Tuesday when the laundry is piling up and grace feels hard to find.

Hit play and be encouraged today.

Topics Covered: motherhood, Christian parenting, faith and family, parenting podcast, Mother's Day, joy in motherhood, faith-based parenting, encouragement for moms, Christian moms, parenting with grace

Graduation season is here! Whether you're the proud parent of a high school senior, a mentor, educator, or the graduate yourself, this episode is for YOU.

The leap after graduation is real. While it's a season of excitement, it's also wrapped in confusion, unexpected pressure, and a level of independence most students have never navigated before. New city. New community. New identity. Where do you even begin?

In this episode, we break down practical, faith-centered guidance for launching well into the next chapter of life. We talk about how to navigate the uncertainty of "what's next," how to build meaningful community from scratch, and how this season is one of the greatest opportunities of your life to own your personal relationship with Christ in a way that's truly yours.

This isn't just a graduation pep talk. It's a roadmap.

You'll walk away with:

• Practical steps for making a confident, grounded transition after high school or college
• Encouragement for parents and mentors on how to support the grad in your life
• A fresh perspective on faith and independence, and why this season is a gift, not just a gap

Whether you're stepping into college, a career, the military, or something in between, this episode meets you right where you are.

Topics covered: graduation 2025 | high school graduation advice | Christian graduation episode | faith after graduation | life after high school | college transition tips | Christian podcast for students | launching into adulthood | parenting a senior |youth ministry podcast | faith and independence | Christian student podcast | new beginnings faith

"There are already churches everywhere, why would we need to start more?" If you've ever heard that question (or asked it yourself), this episode is for you.

Church planting is one of the most powerful (and most misunderstood) aspects of Christianity. In this episode, Eric, Kevin and Tim break down exactly what church planting is, why it matters more than ever in a rapidly changing world, and why the assumption that "we already have enough churches" couldn't be further from the truth.

But starting a church from scratch isn't easy. This episode gets honest about the real challenges, like financial pressure, leadership development, community resistance, and the sheer weight of building something from nothing. And more importantly, it shares what's being done right now to lower those barriers and empower the next generation of church planters.

In this episode:

• What church planting actually means and what it doesn't
• Why growing communities still desperately need new churches
• The biggest obstacles facing church planters today
• Practical solutions and support systems making a difference
• How you can be part of the movement — even if you're not a pastor

Topics covered: Church planting | How to start a church | Christian mission | Church growth | Church leadership | New churches | Evangelism

Welcome back to part 2 of the conversation!

AI is an undeniable part of our culture today. But how should Christians think about AI? Is it a tool to embrace, a threat to fear, or something in between?

In this episode, Eric and Justin explore how believers can engage with artificial intelligence thoughtfully, without either blindly accepting it or shutting it down out of fear. This episode discusses how parents can lead their kids well in engaging with AI, how educators and students can approach it well in their pursuits and how we as individuals can check ourselves in our own use.

Whether you're an AI skeptic, an enthusiastic early adopter, or just trying to figure out what ChatGPT even is, this episode will help you think biblically about one of the biggest cultural shifts of our time.

Topics covered: AI and faith | Christians and technology | artificial intelligence ethics | biblical worldview | technology and culture | ChatGPT | AI tools for ministry | parenting | education

AI is an undeniable part of our culture today. But how should Christians think about AI? Is it a tool to embrace, a threat to fear, or something in between?

In this episode, Eric and Justin explore how believers can engage with artificial intelligence thoughtfully, without either blindly accepting it or shutting it down out of fear. What does it mean to use AI wisely? Where does Scripture speak into emerging technology? And how do we stay fully human in an increasingly automated world?

Whether you're an AI skeptic, an enthusiastic early adopter, or just trying to figure out what ChatGPT even is, this episode will help you think biblically about one of the biggest cultural shifts of our time.

Topics covered: AI and faith | Christians and technology | artificial intelligence ethics | biblical worldview | technology and culture | ChatGPT | AI tools for ministry

Jesus promised to send a Helper who would give His followers power: the Holy Spirit. But who is the Holy Spirit, and what does that power actually look like?

In this episode, Eric, Vince, and Laura explore the role of the Holy Spirit, what He does in the life of believers, and how we can learn to recognize and engage with His presence. Discover why pressing into the Holy Spirit is essential to living a life that truly goes against the grain.

What does it truly mean to say "yes" to God's call? In this episode, Rory and Pam's journey from fostering one child to leading international ministries, proves that small acts of obedience can lead to extraordinary impact. Through adopting children, opening a children's home, and serving in Africa despite challenges like recurring malaria, they've learned that God equips those He calls. Be inspired to examine your own response to His leading, whether across the globe or across the street.

00:00 - Intro

04:06 - God's plan for my life in Uganda

09:16 - Adopting a child from the streets

15:42 - Journey into ministry

23:07 - Living in Rwanda

31:48 - Back to the States

40:20 - How to Hear God's Call Clearly

46:54 - Helping Equip, Evangelize and Disciple

Against the Gain is back for a new season!

In this episode Eric, Kevin and Vince discuss what it means to be sent. "Sent," isn't just about crossing oceans—it's a daily mindset of following God's lead. From tiny steps of neighborhood outreach to life-changing moves abroad, they unpack how listening to the Holy Spirit and simple obedience can lead to extraordinary impact. Whether you're seeking direction or yearning to make a difference, this message illuminates how every believer is called to be sent. Don't miss this compelling conversation that could reshape your understanding of God's purpose for your life!

00:01 - What Does It Mean to Be Sent?

04:17 - Intro

07:01 - Being Sent: A Mindset

10:43 - Being Sent to the World

15:41 - Living for the Lord

16:12 - Kevin on Being Called to the World

23:01 - God Preparations for Moses

23:31 - How Do You Know Where God's Sending You?

28:12 - How Do You Know Where to Go?

32:16 - What Are Some of the Other Things That Keep People From Being Sent?

36:59 - Being Sent: A Daily Mindset

41:30 - Reclaiming the Gospel of Romans 10

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.

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.

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 accountability, and practical ways to invest in the friendships that matter.

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 household, cultivate a love for His word and grow little hearts into big hearts of prayer.

"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 choose to walk in holiness with the Lord? In this episode, Eric, Lorraine & Jordan discuss dealing with real temptations and the pursuit of what is better.

Show notes:

James 1:12-15 & 4:7

Hebrews 12:2

Psalm 51, 16 & 103

Romans 12:2 & 16:20

Galatians 2:20

1 Corinthians 10:13

Revelation 12:11