Religion & SpiritualityChristianityEducation

Dear Church

Ripple of Light

Tune in, week-to-week, as Chris McCurley explores some of the deeper questions about being a Christian, and the church as a whole.

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26 episodes
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English

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September 24 · 37 min
Ep. #374 | Dr. Keith Harris
Chris sits down with Dr. Keith Harris, the 17th president of Freed-Hardeman University, to talk about his new role, Christian higher education, and the challenges and opportunities facing Christian universities today. Dr. Harris previously served as the preaching minister at Lewisville Church of Christ in Lewisville, Texas. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #KeithHarris #FreedHardemanUniversity #ChristianEducation #HigherEducation #ChristianCollege #ChristianLeadership #Faith #ChurchOfChrist #Christianity #Gospel #ChristianPodcast
September 17 · 37 min
Ep. #373 | Garrett Best
What does the book of Revelation actually mean—and why does the church need its message today? Chris sits down with Dr. Garrett Best to explore Revelation, its meaning, and how its message still speaks to the church today. Dr. Best is Assistant Dean and Director of the Hazelip School of Theology at Lipscomb University. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #GarrettBest #Revelation #BookOfRevelation #Bible #Christianity #Church #Jesus #ChristianLiving #Gospel #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianPodcast
September 10 · 34 min
Ep. #372 | Gantt Carter
What does faith really mean—and how should it change the way we live? Chris sits down with Gantt Carter to look at faith through the lens of the ancient world and how that perspective can reshape our understanding and response to faith today. Gantt Carter is the preaching minister at 2nd & Adams Church of Christ in Elk City, Oklahoma. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #GanttCarter #Faith #ChristianFaith #ChristianLiving #Discipleship #Jesus #Gospel #ChurchOfChrist #Bible #ChristianPodcast #FaithInAction
September 3 · 42 min
Ep. #371 | Ryan Goodwin
In this episode of Dear Church, Ryan Goodwin joins Chris for a conversation about something that sounds simple but may be one of the most important principles of Christian character: being nice. Ryan is the preacher at Glen Springs Church in Gainesville, Florida. Together, they discuss why kindness, friendliness, and treating people well should be foundational qualities of a disciple of Jesus. Being nice isn't just about being polite. For Christians, it can be one of the first tools we use to open doors for evangelism. Before people listen to what we believe, they often notice how we treat them. What if reaching people with the Gospel starts with something as simple as showing them genuine kindness? This conversation challenges Christians to think about how our character, attitude, and everyday interactions can point people toward Jesus. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #RyanGoodwin #ChristianCharacter #Evangelism #Kindness #ChristianLiving #Discipleship #Gospel #Jesus #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianPodcast #FaithInAction
August 27 · 37 min
Ep. #370 | Billy McGuiggan
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris sits down with Billy McGuiggan, Preaching Minister at Three Chopt Church of Christ in Richmond, Virginia, for a conversation about Jesus, Scripture, and the power of story. What if we changed the way we read the Bible by seeing the entire story of Scripture as leading us toward Jesus? Billy and Chris discuss how understanding the larger story of Scripture can help us see Jesus more clearly and better understand who He is. Rather than treating the Bible as simply a collection of individual stories, teachings, and commands, we can recognize how those pieces fit together into one unfolding story that ultimately points us to Christ. The conversation also explores the power of story and why stories have such a profound ability to shape the way we understand truth, God, and ourselves. Who is Jesus? And what happens when we begin reading Scripture with that question at the center? Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #BillyMcGuiggan #Jesus #Bible #Scripture #ChristianFaith #Gospel #JesusStory #BibleStudy #ChristianPodcast #ChurchOfChrist #Faith
August 20 · 35 min
Ep. #369 | Boo Scott
In this episode of Dear Church, Boo Scott joins us for a conversation about worship, generosity, and what God really wants from us. Boo Scott is the Lead Minister at National Park Church of Christ in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Together, they discuss why generosity isn't ultimately about what we give or how much we give, but about the heart behind it. Everything we have is a blessing from God. Generosity calls us to humble ourselves, recognize where our blessings come from, and remember that what we have was never truly ours to begin with. This conversation challenges us to look beyond the amount we give and ask a deeper question: What does our giving reveal about our heart toward God? True worship isn't simply about what happens in a church building. It's about surrender, gratitude, humility, and recognizing God as the source of every blessing. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #BooScott #Worship #Generosity #Giving #ChristianLiving #Faith #GodsBlessings #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianPodcast #WorshipGod #Gospel
August 13 · 34 min
Ep. #368 | Trey Morgan
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris sits down with Trey Morgan, Lead Minister at Sunset Church of Christ in Lubbock, Texas, to talk about the direction of the church and what it means to get back to what matters most. Trey is a minister, author, speaker, and marriage coach who has spent years encouraging Christians to live out their faith in practical ways. In this conversation, Chris and Trey discuss the need for the church to become more outward focused, putting evangelism and the Gospel at the center of what we do. Sometimes we can become so focused on defending truth, debating doctrine, and looking inward that we lose sight of the people who desperately need to hear about Jesus. The church is called to be a people who take the Gospel to the lost, love people, and point them to Christ. What if getting the church moving in the right direction starts with getting our focus back on Jesus and the mission He gave us? This is a conversation about the church, evangelism, doctrine, and the need to remember why we are here. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #TreyMorgan #ChurchOfChrist #Evangelism #Gospel #ChristianLiving #ChurchLeadership #Jesus #ChristianPodcast #FaithInAction #ChurchGrowth #OutwardFocused
August 6 · 32 min
Ep. #367 | Wes McAdams
In this episode of Dear Church, Wes McAdams joins us for a thoughtful conversation about one of the most important questions a Christian can ask: Can I know that I am saved? Wes serves as the preacher for McDermott Road Church of Christ, hosts the Radically Christian and Post Sermon Notes (P.S.) podcasts, and is the author of several books. Together, we explore assurance of salvation, God's wrath, and one of the greatest misunderstandings many Christians have about God's character. Too often, people view God as angry and waiting to punish them. But Scripture paints a different picture. God's desire is not to destroy us but to redeem us. Through Christ, we see that we are not the object of God's wrath—we are the object of His love and affection. God longs for a relationship with His people and has gone to incredible lengths to make that possible. If you've ever struggled with assurance, wrestled with fear, or questioned God's intentions toward you, this conversation will encourage you to see His heart more clearly. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #WesMcAdams #AssuranceOfSalvation #Salvation #GodsLove #GodsWrath #JesusChrist #ChristianFaith #Bible #ChurchOfChrist #Gospel #ChristianPodcast
May 28 · 24 min
Ep. #366 "Faith on the Field"
In this episode of Dear Church, senior baseball player Collin Helms from Harding University joins the conversation to discuss what it means to live out your faith both on and off the field. College athletics can bring pressure, competition, distractions, and challenges to a Christian's character and priorities. This discussion explores how athletes can stay grounded in Christ while competing at a high level, representing their faith publicly, and using sports as an opportunity to influence others for good. Collin shares insights from his experience in baseball, the lessons sports can teach about discipline and perseverance, and the importance of keeping God first no matter the environment. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #ChristianPodcast #Faith #FreedomInChrist #JesusChrist #Gospel #ChristianLiving
May 21 · 37 min
Ep. #365 "Raising Godly Women"
In this episode of Dear Church, Steve Minor returns to discuss the important responsibility of raising godly women in a culture that often pushes against biblical values. This conversation explores the role of parents, the influence of faith in the home, and the importance of teaching young women to pursue Christ, wisdom, purity, strength, and compassion. The episode also looks at how the church can encourage and support the next generation of faithful Christian women. In a world full of confusion and pressure, God's Word continues to provide clarity and purpose for families seeking to honor Him. "Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised." — Proverbs 31:30 Ripple of Light Ministries exists to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ through an engaging network of multimedia, equipping the Church and reaching the lost. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #ChristianPodcast #Faith #FreedomInChrist #JesusChrist #Gospel #ChristianLiving
May 14 · 30 min
Ep. #364 "How Ben & Travis Are Reaching People Beyond the Pulpit"
In this episode of Dear Church, Ben Hayes and Travis Creasy join the conversation to discuss ministry, mental health, and the many ways Christians can serve beyond the pulpit. Known together as Ben and Travis, the duo has built a wide-reaching ministry through preaching, podcasting, counseling, writing children's books, and encouraging Christians through humor and honest conversations. Ben serves as the pulpit minister for Highland Park Church of Christ in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, while Travis serves as the pulpit minister for Westgate Church of Christ in Dothan, Alabama. Their work includes The Adventures of Ben and Travis children's books along with multiple podcasts including Helping Healing Humor, Friday Refresh, Good Ole Fashion Dislike, and more. This episode explores the importance of encouraging Christians through openness, compassion, truth, and practical ministry — especially when discussing mental health struggles that many people face silently. Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." — John 16:33 Learn more about Ben and Travis: BenAndTravis.com Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.
May 7 · 26 min
Ep. #363 "Freedom From Addiction Through Christ"
In this episode of Dear Church, Adam Eades joins the conversation to discuss the struggle of addiction and the hope of overcoming it through Christ. Addiction affects countless lives and often leaves people feeling defeated, ashamed, and alone. This discussion looks at the spiritual and practical side of recovery, the importance of accountability, and the transforming power of the Gospel. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #AddictionRecovery #ChristianPodcast #Faith #FreedomInChrist #JesusChrist #Gospel #ChristianLiving
April 30 · 32 min
Ep. #362 "Breaking the Chains of Addiction"
Addiction can leave people feeling trapped, ashamed, isolated, and hopeless. In this episode of Dear Church, Kevin Turbeville joins the discussion to talk about the reality of addiction, the spiritual battle behind it, and the hope that is found in Christ. This conversation explores the struggles many Christians face in silence and how the Gospel offers forgiveness, strength, accountability, and freedom. Whether the battle is with substances, pornography, alcohol, or destructive habits, this episode points listeners toward biblical encouragement and lasting hope.
April 23 · 27 min
Ep. #361 "Community Focused Church"
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Stephen Sutton for a conversation about building a community-focused church. Together, they discuss how congregations can better engage the people around them and why being present and involved in the community is essential to effective ministry. Stephen serves as the preaching minister for the West Dyersburg Church of Christ and is also deeply involved in public service within his community. As a bi-vocational minister, paramedic, and public information officer, he brings a unique perspective on how ministry and community service can work hand in hand. This discussion highlights practical ways the church can stay connected, serve faithfully, and make a meaningful impact where they are. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #CommunityMinistry #ChurchOutreach #FaithInAction #BiVocationalMinistry #ServingTheCommunity #ChristianLeadership #LocalChurch #ChurchEngagement #ChristianPodcast #MinistryAndService #GospelOutreach #CommunityImpact #ChristianLiving #ChurchAndCommunity
April 9 · 28 min
Ep. #359 "Raising Godly Men"
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Steve Minor for a conversation about raising godly men in today's world. Together, they discuss the challenges facing young men, the importance of intentional leadership, and how families and churches can work together to shape men of faith and character. Steve has spent years in ministry working with families and equipping men to lead well. He serves as the preaching minister for the Wylie Church of Christ in Texas and leads efforts like Legacy Family Camp and the MIGHTY Men's Mentoring Conference, focused on strengthening families and developing strong, Christ-centered men. This episode offers practical encouragement for parents, mentors, and churches committed to raising the next generation. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #RaisingGodlyMen #ChristianMen #BiblicalManhood #ChristianParenting #FaithAndFamily #MensMinistry #LeadershipAndFaith #ChristianPodcast #Discipleship #RaisingBoys #FamilyMinistry #SpiritualLeadership #GodlyLeadership #ChristianLiving
April 2 · 28 min
Ep. #358 "Purpose Filled Money"
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Caleb Sams for a conversation about handling money with purpose from a Christian perspective. Together, they discuss how faith should shape the way we think about finances, stewardship, and generosity. Caleb is a financial advisor and host of the Purpose Filled Money podcast, where he shares a Christ-centered approach to managing money. In this discussion, Chris and Caleb explore practical ways believers can honor God with their finances and align their resources with a greater purpose. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #ChristianFinances #BiblicalStewardship #FaithAndMoney #PurposeFilledMoney #ChristianLiving #FinancialStewardship #MoneyAndFaith #ChristianPodcast #Generosity #BiblicalPrinciples #ManagingMoney #Stewardship #FaithBasedFinances #ChristianAdvice
March 25 · 28 min
Ep. #357 "Working Through Grief"
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by his friend and fellow church member, Tom Moss, for a heartfelt conversation about walking through grief. After experiencing the loss of two wives, Tom shares personal insight into the pain of loss and the journey of navigating life in its aftermath. Together, they reflect on how faith in Christ sustains us in seasons of sorrow, the importance of community, and the hope that carries believers through even the deepest grief. This episode offers comfort and encouragement for anyone facing loss and a reminder that God is present in our hardest moments. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #GriefAndLoss #ChristianGrief #FaithInSuffering #HopeInChrist #DealingWithLoss #ChristianEncouragement #ChurchCommunity #HealingAndFaith #ChristianPodcast #TrustingGod #LifeAfterLoss #SpiritualComfort #FaithThroughTrials #BiblicalHope
March 19 · 30 min
Ep. #356 "Reaching the Youth"
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Lonnie Jones for a conversation about reaching and guiding the next generation. Together, they discuss the biggest challenges facing young people today and how the church can help youth overcome those struggles with Christ at the center. Lonnie has spent decades working with young people through ministry, counseling, and speaking at youth conferences across the country. With a background in Bible and counseling and years of experience mentoring students and families, Lonnie shares practical insight into how churches and parents can better connect with youth and encourage lasting faith. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #YouthMinistry #NextGeneration #ChristianYouth #FaithAndYouth #ChristianParenting #YouthChallenges #MinisteringToTeens #ChristianPodcast #NextGenerationFaith #ChurchAndYouth #SpiritualGrowth #YouthDiscipleship #ChristCenteredLife #ChristianLeadership
March 12 · 31 min
Ep. #355 "The Lord's Table"
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Jason Hart for a conversation about the meaning and significance of the Lord's Table. Drawing from themes in Jason's book The Table in the Story of God, they explore how meals throughout Scripture help us better understand communion and its place in the life of the church. Jason has spent more than two decades in preaching and youth ministry and is passionate about helping people see the beauty and depth of Scripture. In this discussion, Chris and Jason reflect on how the story of the Bible enriches our understanding of the Lord's Supper and invites believers to approach the table with deeper appreciation and faith Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #Communion #LordsSupper #TheTableInTheStoryOfGod #BiblicalTeaching #MealsInTheBible #ChristianWorship #ChurchOfChrist #BibleStudy #ChristianPodcast #LordsTable #FaithAndWorship #ScriptureStudy #BiblicalTheology #ChristianLiving
March 5 · 43 min
Ep. #354 "Coaching to Win"
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Jay Powlas to discuss coaching, leadership, and the pursuit of winning the right way. Their conversation explores how lessons from athletics—discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and character—can shape leaders both on and off the court. Jay Powlas is the head coach of the Dickson County Cougars basketball team. A long-time staff member and current Athletic Director at Dickson County High School, Powlas adds the role of head basketball coach to his already significant leadership responsibilities within Dickson County athletics. Together, Chris and Jay reflect on the influence coaches can have on young people and the values that matter most in both sports and life. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #ChristianLeadership #CoachingAndFaith #SportsAndCharacter #LeadershipLessons #CoachingToWin #ChristianPodcast #Mentorship #DisciplineAndTeamwork #FaithAndLeadership #YouthInfluence #ChristianLiving #CharacterDevelopment #SportsMinistry #LeadershipPrinciples

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