Uncut

Sabbath: Didn't Jesus do away with the Sabbath?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 19 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Didn't Jesus just do away with the sabbath? This week we discuss if observing the sabbath is for the the christian believer today.

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

(00:00) - Introduction to Sabbath
(01:17) - The Debate on Sabbath Observance
(21:41) - Practicing Sabbath in Modern Life
(23:14) - Intentional Rest vs. Busy Days
(33:45) - Reflections on the Sabbath Series

Sabbath: Why is there so much resistance to sabbath?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 09:43:14 -0400

Why is there so much resistance to the practice of sabbath even from Christians? Why is it so hard to practice? This week Pastors Cameron and Luke discuss what has made sabbath become such a foreign thing to many christians.

(00:00) -
(00:00) - Welcome to the Uncut Podcast
(05:29) - The Challenge of Sabbath
(12:33) - Why Sabbath Makes Us Uncomfortable
(23:34) - Cultural Influences on Sabbath
(27:26) - The Importance of God's Presence
(33:25) - Transitioning into Sabbath
(39:44) - Practical Approaches to Sabbath
(42:32) - Is Sabbath Still a Commandment?

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

Sabbath: How we have misunderstood Jesus

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 12:39:54 -0400

Sabbath, an outdated practice for the ultra conservative? A thing Jesus did away with? This episode Cameron and Luke unpack how sabbath may be just what we have been looking for.

(00:00) - Introduction
(04:28) - Introducing the Sabbath Series
(05:48) - Understanding Sabbath's Importance
(08:14) - Misconceptions About Sabbath
(10:29) - Jesus and the Sabbath
(12:01) - The Gift of Sabbath
(15:49) - Legalism vs. Compassion
(18:59) - The Consequences of Ignoring Sabbath
(22:37) - The Purpose of the Law
(28:37) - Ignoring the Gift of Sabbath
(35:13) - Sabbath as an Anchor
(38:33) - Anticipating the Sabbath Series
(39:27) - Conclusion and Feedback Request

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

Fasting & Prayer: Why we struggle to pray

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 14:32:18 -0400

Luke and Cameron continue their discussion on prayer and fasting.

(00:00) - Introduction
(01:51) - Fasting vs. Abstaining
(05:26) - The Importance of Corporate Fasting
(16:36) - Unity in Prayer and Fasting
(24:21) - The Nature of God's Will
(37:09) - The Dynamics of Prayer
(45:10) - Conclusion and Reflection

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

Biblical Fasting: What it is & How to do it

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:36:58 -0500

Fasting. Something christians should be doing or not? Is it a relic of Bible times or a lost practice we need to recover today. Cameron and Luke discuss both the theology and practice of fasting and prayer.

(00:09) - Introduction to the Uncut Podcast
(00:29) - The Journey of Prayer
(08:10) - Intercession and Co-Laboring
(10:06) - The Connection of Fasting and Prayer
(19:49) - Understanding the Theology of Fasting
(24:28) - Fasting: A Focus on Food
(29:29) - Navigating Fasting and Abstinence
(38:35) - Embracing the Discipline of Feasting

Is the most important thing church growth?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 08:21:19 -0500

Pastor Cameron and Luke discuss the details of their decision to go back to one single Sunday service after only a year of doing services.

Click here to watch a video of this episode.

(00:00) - Introduction
(12:29) - Pursuing God's Presence
(41:34) - The Shift to One Service
(54:17) - The Importance of Methodology

God’s presence: What Happens When God is in the Room?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Isn’t God already here? What are we talking about with wanting God’s presence? This episode pastor Cameron and Luke reflect on what what that means and theology behind that language.

(00:00) - introduction
(05:47) - The Nature of God's Presence
(11:26) - Omnipresence vs. Tangible Presence
(18:54) - God Meets Those Who Want Him
(27:25) - The Transformative Power of God's Presence
(31:11) - Worship vs. Worshipping Worship

The Face of God: What does it mean to seek it?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

God doesn’t have a face does he? What does it mean to seek him? This theological reflection leads deeper into what it means to follow after God.

(00:26) - Introduction to the Podcast
(02:05) - Church Merchandise and Ideas
(02:59) - Seeking God's Face: An Introduction
(05:19) - Understanding Metaphors in Scripture
(12:08) - Seeking God's Face vs. Seeking His Hand
(14:12) - The Depth of Prayer and Intimacy
(17:44) - The Call for National Revival
(21:50) - The Role of the Church in Culture
(25:44) - The Weight of Familiarity with God
(31:39) - Repentance and Loss of Wonder
(34:30) - Closing Thoughts and Next Episode Preview

Reflections: A Theology of Space & Other Lessons

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 17:41:29 -0500

Pastor Cameron and Luke reflect on 2024. There were a lot of changes and ministry shifts over the year. They reflect on what they have learned, and how that impacts how they think about the future.

(00:00) - Introduction
(04:28) - Service Expansion Insights
(06:12) - Capacity Conversations
(12:18) - Live Streaming Decisions
(16:59) - Food Truck Ministry Impact
(25:53) - Addressing Community Needs
(31:32) - Future of the Food Truck
(35:49) - The Role of Space
(45:35) - Architectural Reflections
(51:43) - Reading Year in Review
(01:04:38) - Season Break Announcement

Advent - Embracing Unexpected Gifts

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 20:39:41 -0500

What happens when things don't work out? What happens when the promises of God feel delayed? Join us this episode as we reflect on our own experiences in waiting for God and receiving unexpected gifts from God.

(00:00) - Intro
(03:40) - Personal Experiences of Waiting
(13:44) - Letting Go of Control
(24:29) - Happiness vs. Holiness
(34:23) - Pulling a Hagar
(39:00) - The Illusion of Happiness
(44:55) - Reflections on Waiting

Advent - Why do we have to wait on God?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:49:32 -0500

What do we do when God is seemingly have us wait? Christmas is really all about waiting. This episode Cameron and Luke reflect on the theology of Advent and what it looks like to wait for God even when it's difficult.

(00:00) - Intro
(01:55) - The Advent Season
(07:01) - The Waiting Game
(12:00) - The Proto-Evangelion
(13:41) - Humanity's Longing
(18:18) - The Story of Advent
(26:59) - Practical Applications of Advent
(28:45) - Personal Reflections on Waiting
(41:37) - Waiting Well
(48:17) - Lessons in the Waiting

Healthy Marriages - Creating Deeper Connection

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Your marriage is the most important relationship you have, but how do you build it into a healthy relationship. Without intentionality we don't drift closer. This episode Pastor Cameron and Luke discuss rituals for connection and a deeper marriage.

(00:00) - Welcome to the Uncut Podcast
(01:02) - Rituals for Connection
(02:38) - The Importance of Mentorship
(05:42) - Creating a Couple Bubble
(10:11) - Prioritizing the Marriage Relationship
(12:45) - Weekly Rituals of Connection
(18:07) - Intentional Romance
(20:43) - Shared Experiences and Interests
(31:54) - Conclusion and New Beginnings

Healthy Marriages: Patterns that of Disconnection

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Your marriage is one of your most important relationships. It's easy to slip into patterns that slowly tear down rather than build up. In this episode pastor Cameron and Luke discuss 4 patterns that cause serious trouble in your marriage.

(00:00) - Welcome to the Uncut Podcast
(11:05) - Patterns to Avoid in Marriage
(11:47) - Pattern #1
(20:47) - Pattern #2
(22:43) - Pattern #3
(38:07) - Pattern #4
(48:03) - Patterns of Connection Ahead

Creating a Healthy Sex Life Inside Your Marriage

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

The movies make it look easy and the Church doesn't talk about it. Sex is one of the most intimate and complicated pieces of a marriage relationship. Pastor Cameron and Luke dive into the topic of sex within marriage and try to offer advice and insight from a biblical and practical perspective.

(00:07) - Naked Emotions
(02:09) - Baggage and Its Impact
(03:47) - The Role of Our Stories
(07:51) - Emotional Components of Sex
(08:39) - Gender Dynamics in Intimacy
(11:45) - Understanding Emotional Needs
(13:49) - Women's Sexual Experience
(15:42) - Developing Healthy Sex Life
(20:46) - Intimacy as a Thermometer
(24:31) - Consistency in Emotional Intimacy
(25:57) - Scheduling for Connection
(31:41) - Breaking the Intimacy Cycle
(34:03) - Mutual Understanding of Intimacy
(38:07) - Intentionality in Relationships

Sex & biblical Marriage

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, Pastor Cameron and Pastor Luke talk about the significance of sex within the context of the biblical covenant. Sex is more than just something we do with our bodies. It has a huge impact on the health of a marriage, but can be so hard to navigate. In this episode pastor Cameron and Luke discuss that often mentioned belief that sex belongs only inside of marriage.

(00:15) - Introduction to the Covenant of Marriage
(01:42) - The Importance of Sexual Relationship
(02:48) - Cultural Distortions of Sex
(07:16) - The Purpose of Sex in Marriage
(14:10) - Reproduction, Intimacy, and Pleasure
(17:41) - The Beginning of Marriage
(20:38) - The Danger of Casual Sex
(29:00) - The Metanarrative of Hope
(29:48) - Understanding Sex Outside of Marriage
(37:48) - The Spiritual Implications of Sexual Relationships
(39:12) - Viewing Marriage and Sex Through God's Lens

Marriage - What is a covenant anyways?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

The Nature of Covenant in Christian Marriage

In this episode, Pastor Cameron and Pastor Luke discuss the importance of understanding marriage as a covenant rather than a contract. They explore biblical examples of covenants, the impact of upbringing on relationships, and how covenantal marriage commitments shape behavior and expectations. The pastors address the challenges that arise when one spouse approaches marriage contractually while the other approaches it covenantally. They also explain the need for emotional health and positive patterns of connection in a marriage. The episode further touches on the difficulties couples face and the approach taken during a recent marriage conference.

(00:17) - Understanding Marriage Foundations
(01:12) - Podcast Changes and Future Plans
(04:16) - Recap of the Marriage Conference
(06:19) - Energy and Questions from the Conference
(08:02) - Key Topics for Discussion
(10:38) - Rationale Behind the Conference
(14:46) - The Impact of Upbringing on Marriage
(22:39) - The Nature of Covenant
(28:20) - The Significance of the Rainbow
(35:04) - Covenant vs. Contract
(43:23) - Navigating Different Standards in Marriage
(45:13) - The Nature of Biblical Covenant
(49:20) - Advice for Struggling Couples

Politics & Pulpits: What should pastors preach on?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 18:48:14 -0400

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, Pastor Luke and Cameron discuss their sermon series on faith and politics, highlighting the challenges of polarization and the need for nuanced dialogue. They emphasize the importance of consistency in ethical beliefs and the influence of biblical teachings on political engagement. The hosts preview upcoming sermons on the kingdom of heaven and Christian participation in politics, encouraging listener engagement and support for the podcast.

(00:05) - Introduction
(01:30) - Sermon Series Planning
(04:37) - Encouraging Engagement with Politics
(11:58) - Complexity of Political Beliefs
(20:22) - Pro-Life Stance
(22:58) - Consistent Ethic of Life
(31:38) - Justifiable Defense
(37:30) - Reflection on Series
(41:10) - Preaching Preferences
(43:28) - Importance of Jesus' Kingdom
(47:05) - Engaging in Political Landscape

Church Money: Where does the money go?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 15:34:06 -0400

Join Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron in this episode of the Uncut Podcast as we discuss the financial dynamics of churches. We explore the perception of churches as businesses, dissecting budget allocations for personnel, facilities, missions, and programs. Emphasizing the importance of transparency and understanding cultural influences on financial choices, we invite listeners to engage in the conversation on church finances.

Social Post From Brady Shearer
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8rdu8xOAMk/?igsh=MWY0cnhtNTAzN21qZw==

Check out more from Brady Shearer
https://www.youtube.com/@prochurchtoolsshow

Read the study on church finances
https://lakeinstitute.org/research/lake-institute-projects/nscep/

(00:04) - Introduction
(01:45) - Mainstream News and Criticism of Churches
(02:59) - John Oliver's Exposé on Churches
(03:07) - Brady Shear's Video on Church Spending
(18:42) - The Church's Financial Health
(29:05) - The Church's Giving and Tithing
(30:19) - Church's Use of Funds and Giving
(32:06) - Pastors' Compensation and Responsibilities
(33:21) - Perspectives on Church Finances
(39:56) - Church and Guilt in Giving
(41:06) - Pastors' Compensation Models
(43:36) - Extensive Conversation on Church Finances
(43:42) - Budgeting and Financial Transparency

Behind the Pulpit: What goes into preparing a sermon

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 19:14:30 -0400

Join pastors Luke and Cameron on the Uncut Podcast as they discuss managing ministry challenges like preaching multiple services on Sundays, self-care, and sermon preparation. They emphasize the importance of balancing personal well-being with pastoral duties and the dedication needed to deliver impactful messages faithfully.

(00:05) - Welcome to the Uncut Podcast
(01:39) - Ministry Load and Personal Balance
(06:47) - Feeling Tired and Managing Energy
(09:39) - Balancing Conversations After Services
(12:21) - The Debate on Church Green Rooms
(19:57) - Sermon Series: Asking for a Friend
(22:39) - Preaching on Angels, Demons, and Satan
(24:45) - Choosing Sermon Topics: Politics Ahead
(28:28) - Expositional Preaching vs. Topical Preaching
(30:29) - Ministry Topics and Approaches
(30:58) - Teaching on Contemporary Sexual Issues
(31:41) - Researching Topical vs. Expositional Sermons
(39:28) - Seeking Biblical Guidance on Topics
(40:55) - Balancing Topical and Expositional Preaching
(43:46) - Filtering Research for Sermon Preparation
(49:49) - Learning from Other Preachers on the Same Text
(52:37) - Commitment to Intensive Study for Sermon Preparation
(56:43) - Seeking Confirmation and Diverse Perspectives

Obstacles in Marriage: Identifying and Overcoming Relational Hurdles

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 21:38:40 -0400

In this episode of the Uncut podcast, Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron discuss marriage, drawing from personal experiences. They emphasize the importance of open communication, addressing issues like finances, roles, and unspoken expectations that can lead to resentment. The conversation critiques oversimplified views on marriage, cultural stereotypes, and misconceptions within Christian circles. The hosts share anecdotes of challenges and growth in their marriages, concluding with an invitation for listener questions and a future sermon series on marriage.

(00:05) - Introduction to Marriage Discussion
(00:55) - Marriage Conference Announcement
(02:47) - Importance of Perspective in Marriage
(02:58) - Reflecting on Years of Marriage
(03:07) - Newness vs. Experience in Relationships
(04:33) - Common Issues in Marriage Counseling
(07:17) - Understanding Lifestyle Values in Finances
(09:37) - Lifestyle Choices and Financial Decisions
(10:31) - Impact of Unspoken Expectations
(13:49) - Unspoken Expectations and Resentment
(16:28) - The Importance of Healthy Communication
(22:34) - Articulating Expectations in Marriage
(24:21) - Importance of Healthy Communication Styles
(29:57) - Unspoken Expectations and Household Chores
(33:28) - Navigating Financial Struggles in Marriage
(38:58) - Challenging Christian Stereotypes in Marriage
(43:58) - Misunderstandings of Submission in Marriage
(46:20) - Rethinking Stereotypical Relationship Dynamics
(46:42) - Misconceptions Surrounding Marriage
(48:22) - Evolving Views on Love Languages
(49:05) - Marriage Conference and Sermon Series Announcements

Apostles & Elders - Making Sense of Church Leadership in the Bible

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Tue, 21 May 2024 15:17:29 -0400

Join Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron in the Uncut Podcast as they sip on drinks and engage in unfiltered discussions about faith, life, and ministry. Their conversation revolves around tying Wednesday night classes to Sunday sermons on Ephesians, navigating the challenge of covering profound topics in limited sermon time. Delving into Ephesians chapter four, they explore the roles of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, debating their universal application and cautioning against self-proclaimed titles. The debate expands to elders, overseers, shepherds, and deacons in the church, emphasizing the importance of understanding these roles despite the lack of explicit modern directives. Drawing parallels between elder and deacon qualifications with a focus on teaching ability, they reference Acts chapter six for biblical insights. Stay tuned for their upcoming episode as they delve deeper into implementing these roles within church structures.

(00:04) - Introduction
(00:20) - Drink Sponsors and Bible Study Classes
(02:58) - Understanding Church Offices
(04:37) - Exploring Ephesians Chapter 4
(09:25) - Universal Application of Church Offices
(12:11) - Hermeneutical Questions on Apostle, Prophet, and Evangelist
(15:53) - Defining Roles: Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist
(17:07) - Addressing False Apostles
(19:30) - Poiment and Church Office Terminology
(21:51) - Function vs. Title: Apostleship
(25:31) - Function of a Prophet
(27:14) - Era of Church Offices
(32:19) - Role of Prophets in Scripture
(37:13) - Discussion on Pastors and Teachers
(39:55) - Different Terms for Church Leaders
(43:04) - Usage of Titles: Pastor, Reverend, Minister
(44:30) - Importance of Elder Role
(48:17) - Structure Passed on by Paul's Protégés
(49:23) - Contextualization in Theology
(50:02) - Summary: Church Offices - Elders and Deacons

Loving Jesus but Hating the Church: Is the Church Important or Necessary?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Wed, 15 May 2024 16:42:29 -0400

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, we explored various aspects of faith, church, and theology. We emphasized the importance of the church community, dispelled misconceptions about Catholic practices, and delved into the study of ecclesiology. Our conversation spanned topics such as Christian maturity, unity among believers, denominational differences, sacramentalism, and the ever-evolving nature of theological exploration. We also contemplated future episodes that could delve into favorite Bible stories and foundational theological concepts. Ultimately, we underscored the dynamic nature of theological exploration and the value of engaging with diverse perspectives within spirituality.

Chapters:
00:00:00 Do We Need to Go to Church? | 063
00:00:05 Introduction
00:02:11 Future Episode Plans
00:05:29 Old Testament Series
00:12:18 Importance of Church Community
00:13:41 Definition of Ecclesiology
00:21:00 Can we love Jesus but hate the church?
00:29:29 Where is God found?
00:33:30 Praying to Saints and Catholicism
00:47:57 Cut Conversation

(00:05) - Introduction
(00:34) - Sponsorship Chats
(02:11) - Future Episode Plans
(05:29) - Old Testament Series
(12:18) - Importance of Church Community
(13:41) - Definition of Ecclesiology
(29:29) - Church Unity
(39:20) - Favorite Bible Stories
(47:57) - Remembering God's Faithfulness
(49:56) - We Believe Theology Series

Tyranny of the Urgent: Fighting for Spiritual Health

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Tue, 07 May 2024 15:28:26 -0400

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron share their insights from attending a pastors and church leaders conference. They discuss the significance of prioritizing what is truly important over urgent matters, emphasizing the importance of personal holiness and rest in leadership roles. The conversation touches on setting boundaries, creating space for reflection, and the value of focusing on key tasks like fitting big rocks in a jar before smaller rocks and sand. They recommend a productivity book, highlight a project milestone, and encourage intentional decision-making and self-care.Listeners are invited to engage with their church community and suggest topics for future podcasts.

(00:00) - Welcome to the Uncut Podcast
(00:48) - Busy Launch and Retreat Reflections
(05:11) - Importance vs. Urgency in Ministry
(13:45) - Serving with Purpose and Boundaries
(16:48) - Productivity and Prioritizing Big Rocks
(22:09) - Learning from Failures and Setting Boundaries

Predestination: What is it & how do we understand it?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 21:48:15 -0400

In this episode, we discuss concerns and benefits of artificial intelligence, its role in content creation, and our use of AI tools in podcast production. We also analyze theological debates on predestination and free will, emphasizing the complexity within Christian theology. Additionally, we touch on systematic versus biblical theology, and preview our upcoming sermon series on Ephesians, focusing on salvation by grace through faith.

Chapters:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:33 Thoughts on AI
00:07:02 Ephesians and Predestination
00:10:06 Understanding Predestination's Purpose in Faith
00:12:18 Personality Types and Theological Beliefs
00:16:16 Avoiding Extremes in Theological Camps
00:17:58 Differentiating Biblical and Systematic Theology
00:20:06 The Role of Historical Theology in Systematic Theology
00:22:27 Pastoral Application of Theological Studies
00:30:52 Wrestling with Double Predestination
00:35:49 Salvation Through Grace: Contemplating Works vs. Faith

(00:04) - Introduction to the Uncut Podcast
(04:00) - Exploring the Use of AI in Daily Life
(04:50) - Leveraging AI for Podcast Content Creation
(07:02) - Diving into the Topics of Life and Ministry
(07:32) - Analyzing Predestination in Ephesians
(10:06) - Understanding Predestination's Purpose in Faith
(12:18) - Personality Types and Theological Beliefs
(16:16) - Avoiding Extremes in Theological Camps
(17:58) - Differentiating Biblical and Systematic Theology
(20:06) - The Role of Historical Theology in Systematic Theology
(22:27) - Pastoral Application of Theological Studies
(30:52) - Wrestling with Double Predestination
(35:49) - Salvation Through Grace: Contemplating Works vs. Faith

Preachers & Fashion: How much should a pastor spend on clothes?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 20:08:53 -0400

Should a pastor wear expensive clothes on stage? Famous pastors have been called out for wearing single articles of clothing that total up into the thousands of dollars. Pastor Cameron and Pastor Luke reflect on this phenomena and if this is something we should be decrying pastors for.

Text in questions to: 716-201-0507

Chapters:
00:00:00 Intro
00:03:29 Impact of "Preachers and Sneakers"
00:07:04 Theological Implications of Fashion
00:13:21 Balancing Personal and Pastoral Finances
00:18:13 Personal Reactions to Wealth
00:20:24 Scrutiny on Pastor's Lifestyle Choices
00:25:04 Addressing Egregious Examples
00:28:27 Importance of Generosity
00:30:53 Exercising Discernment from a Distance
00:38:48 Decision to Be Generous at Every Level

(00:04) - Introduction
(00:33) - Pastors and Sneakers Controversy
(03:29) - Impact of "Preachers and Sneakers"
(04:24) - Personal Fashion Choices
(06:16) - Balancing Personal Finances
(07:04) - Theological Implications of Fashion
(09:09) - Questioning Financial Practices
(13:21) - Balancing Personal and Pastoral Finances
(18:13) - Personal Reactions to Wealth
(20:24) - Scrutiny on Pastor's Lifestyle Choices
(22:51) - Perception of Pastor's Practices
(23:59) - Judgment on Financial Decisions
(25:04) - Addressing Egregious Examples
(26:18) - Pastors and a Vow of Poverty
(28:27) - Importance of Generosity
(30:53) - Exercising Discernment from a Distance
(33:42) - Elevating Pastors Beyond Humanity
(36:39) - Misconceptions about Financial Stability
(38:48) - Decision to Be Generous at Every Level
(39:21) - Importance of Discussing Principles

Reasons for Having Two Sunday Services

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, we delve into the topic of adding a second service to the church, exploring the implications and considerations involved in such a significant change. Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron engage in a candid conversation about the transition from one service to two, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities it presents to a congregation.

The podcast delves into the dynamics of church growth, exploring the practical and philosophical aspects of expanding services to accommodate a growing community. They discuss the impact of capacity constraints on the church's ability to reach more individuals and the importance of creating space for newcomers to engage with the message of Jesus.

Chapters:
00:00:00 Intro
00:03:26 Why would we add a 2nd service?
00:09:46 I Won't Know Everyone!
00:15:21 Is this just all about the numbers?
00:17:00 Is one service going to be better?
00:23:00 This means I don't have to serve anymore!
00:26:37 Why not build a bigger sanctuary?
00:34:19 I don't like those service times!
00:35:04 Do I have to have kids or be serving to come to the early service?
00:38:50 The heart of Jesus

(00:04) - Welcome to the Uncut Podcast
(04:17) - The Philosophy of Church Growth
(12:19) - Serving and Genuine Connection
(16:49) - Beyond Numbers in Ministry
(17:19) - Differentiating the Services
(35:03) - Family and Ministry Service
(38:18) - Flexibility in Service Attendance
(39:52) - Making Space for More People
(41:37) - Embracing Change for a Good Why

Why Our Church Does Liturgy?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 16:16:24 -0400

Join Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron on the Uncut Podcast as they discuss the significance of liturgy in Christian worship. They highlight how liturgy brings order, structure, and communal participation to services, conveying theological truths and bridging denominational boundaries. Emphasizing the formative nature of belief and confession, the pastors explore the transformative power of tradition and unity in fostering community and nurturing personal faith.

(00:05) - Introduction
(02:02) - Historical Cataclysmic Events
(02:17) - The Essence of Liturgy
(05:14) - Perception of Liturgical Practices
(05:32) - Defining Liturgy Practically
(21:45) - The Meaning of Liturgical Practices
(31:14) - Building Faith Through Confession
(34:48) - The Role of Truth in Belief
(39:57) - Understanding and Practicing Liturgy

Let's Talk About the God Bless the USA Bible

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 11:36:45 -0400

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron engage in a candid discussion about the controversial "God Bless the USA Bible" endorsed by former President Trump and singer Lee Greenwood. The podcast hosts delve into the implications and issues surrounding this unique Bible, which includes copies of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and more alongside the King James Version of the Bible. They express concerns about the conflation of patriotic and religious documents, questioning the merging of nationalism with Christianity.

(00:00) - The Jeffersonian Bible
(00:38) - The God Bless the USA Bible Debate
(02:17) - Details of the Controversial Bible
(04:15) - Nationalism and the USA Bible
(08:53) - The Underlying Theological Implications
(11:56) - Christianity as a Middle Eastern Faith
(16:15) - Christian Nationalism in Other Countries
(19:44) - Citizenship in Heaven vs. Nationality
(26:20) - Paul's Ethics and Theocratic States
(29:04) - The Impact of Niche Bibles
(34:15) - Easter Reflections and Goodbyes

Defining Emotional Health in Leadership

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 19:06:02 -0400

On the Uncut Podcast, Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron deep dive into emotional health's crucial role in church leadership. They challenge the traditional link between emotional struggles and moral failures, advocating for a more nuanced perspective. Highlighting the impact of historical shifts in church culture on emotional well-being, they stress the need for integrating faith with emotional health. Addressing the cyclical nature of emotional and moral issues throughout history, they emphasize the importance of authentic dialogue and self-awareness in navigating emotional landscapes within religious contexts. The hosts conclude by considering a potential book collaboration on church moral failures and emotional health, inviting listeners to join the conversation and engage in future episodes.

(00:00) - Exploring Views on Moral Failure
(00:53) - Impact of Emotional Health in Leadership
(03:44) - Understanding Emotional Health Definitions
(11:37) - The Connection Between Emotional Intelligence and Emotional Health
(19:30) - Balancing Emotional Responses in Leadership
(21:13) - Effects of Low Emotional Intelligence in Leadership
(28:42) - Integrating Spirituality and Emotional Health
(32:37) - Repressed Emotional Health in Evangelical Communities
(36:57) - Historical Perspectives on Emotional Health
(39:26) - Unhealthy Use of Religious Language
(41:40) - Concluding Thoughts on Emotional Disease

Emotional Health & Leadership

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 16:56:18 -0400

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron have an unscripted conversation about emotional health, inspired by a recent online discussion on the topic. They delve into the idea that emotions are messengers of relational needs, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and understanding one's emotions. The conversation touches on the physical manifestations of emotions in the body, highlighting the connection between physical sensations and emotional experiences.

They explore the concept of emotional needs rooted in relationships and the significance of acknowledging and processing emotions for overall well-being. The discussion extends to the role of language in expressing emotions effectively and the potential pitfalls of excessive empathy leading to codependency.

The pastors share personal insights on the necessity of emotional self-awareness in leadership roles, emphasizing the impact of unaddressed emotions on oneself and others. They discuss the dangers of ignoring emotional health, such as seeking external validation or avoiding necessary feedback. The episode concludes with a teaser for a future episode focusing on practical reasons for emotional self-awareness in leadership and the importance of aligning one's emotions with their faith for effective ministry.

Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for part two of the conversation and to engage with the hosts by sharing questions or feedback via their text line or social media platforms. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe to support the podcast and stay updated on future episodes.

(00:04) - Introduction to Uncut Podcast
(00:28) - Exploring Emotional Health in Leadership
(11:00) - The Resurgence of Emotional Health Awareness
(16:56) - Tired of Old Coping Methods
(25:33) - Understanding the Role of Anger in Emotions
(28:04) - Balancing Emotional Health Discussions
(30:12) - Benefits of Emotional Health in Leadership

Do Unto The Least of These...

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 16:10:59 -0500

Are christians doing something wrong when they show love but don't preach the Gospel? This week Cameron and Luke respond to a real life question they get on a regular basis. Shouldn't we do more than just feed people? They explore the objections that people often have to compassion ministries that focus on meeting physical and practical needs. Do we need to be better stewards? Don't we need to give a Gospel presentation?

(00:19) - Is Feeding People Enough?
(02:28) - Small Town Conversations.
(03:34) - Questioning Generosity.
(05:06) - Thanksgiving Meal Giveaways.
(06:33) - Addressing Objections.
(10:02) - Serving the Least of These.
(15:27) - Feeding People is the Gospel.
(15:58) - Incarnation vs. Proclamation.
(18:41) - The Issue of Bait and Switch.
(21:15) - Demonstrating Need.
(25:24) - The Concept of Stewardship.
(28:03) - The Likely Scenario.
(30:14) - It Would Still Be Enough.

What is biblical worship?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 13:22:21 -0500

Hymns or Praise songs? Church's have debated over worship probably more than any other thing. But is there a biblical key to understanding what right worship is? should we only sing certain styles? Or does just anything go? It's a total free for all?

This week pastor Cameron and Luke discuss the biblical principals that make up their convictions around worship.

(00:00) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast
(10:00) - The Structure of Prayer in Singing
(13:54) - Controversies in Worship Styles
(16:03) - Singing About God vs. Singing to God
(24:11) - Evolution of Worship Styles
(26:37) - Balancing Production Value in Worship
(29:44) - Worship as a Sacrifice

Does Jesus Get Us?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 18:34:40 -0500

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron dissect the controversial He Gets Us Super Bowl commercials. They analyze the depiction of feet washing in the commercials and its connection to sensitive topics like abortion and LGBTQ+ issues. The pastors evaluate the backlash from the Christian community and whether the commercials effectively capture Jesus' teachings. They explore the symbolism of foot washing, emphasizing humility and vulnerability, and discuss the power of actions to convey messages. The pastors address criticisms on fund usage for the commercials, underscoring the importance of diverse approaches to spreading Jesus' message. Overall, they applaud the campaign for initiating dialogues about faith and encouraging people to explore a relationship with Jesus.

(00:00) - Introduction to the Uncut Podcast
(01:58) - He Gets Us Super Bowl Commercials
(05:04) - Controversy and Reactions to the Commercials
(10:27) - Theological and Practical Critiques of the Commercials
(16:27) - Jesus' Act of Humility and Vulnerability
(17:49) - Letting Actions Speak for Themselves
(25:50) - Critique on the Allocation of Funds
(30:15) - Analysis of Specific Images in the Commercials
(32:56) - Inviting into Relationship through the Commercials

What People Ask When Picking a Church

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Have the things that people have considered important when picking a church changed over time?

This week Cameron and Luke discuss how the hot topics have shifted over the decades. Spurred by a post they saw online they wanted to use it as a leaping off point to discuss how church has changed and how the theological topics that people care about have changed.

Shout out to Off the Pulpit - you can find their podcast linked here below.
https://open.spotify.com/show/1rdHsqb62vDyHKDkEoRmKt?utm_medium=share&utm_source=linktree

https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1530814844?app=podcast&at=1000lHKX&ct=linktree_http&itscg=30200&itsct=lt_p&ls=1&mt=2

(05:04) - Questions of the Past: Predestination, Baptism, End Times, Spiritual Gifts
(10:09) - Exploring the Diversity of Theological Perspectives
(12:11) - Navigating Beliefs and Unity in a Non-Denominational Church
(13:15) - The Complexity of Beliefs and Baptism
(14:09) - The Influence of Jerry Jenkins in the Left Behind Series
(21:06) - Theological Debate: Can God Change His Mind?
(21:14) - Theological debate on the immutability of God
(23:09) - God's willingness to be moved by His children's requests
(25:22) - Worship style and its impact on church identity
(27:29) - Addressing concerns about spiritual abuse and discipleship in megachurches
(29:45) - The rise of branded churches over denominational churches
(31:20) - Acts 29 and Harvest Association: Their Current Status
(33:52) - Discussion on Women in Ministry and Social Justice
(36:46) - Questions of relevance in different areas of the country
(38:41) - The future of discipleship and the role of the church
(40:14) - Evaluating Church's Discipleship Methods
(41:12) - Disconnecting Physicality from Ministry
(43:02) - Closing Remarks and Contact Information

The Church needs to Rethink Discipleship

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

What did Jesus mean when He said that His disciples need to pick up their cross and follow Him? Did he simply mean go to church on Sunday? Has the way the church taught people to follow Christ lacking? This week Cameron and Luke explore topics related to discipleship how the church may need to shift.

Carey Nieuwhof leadership Podcast with John Mark Comer
https://youtu.be/qrVKA0_CyJc?si=uoC0ypLp1JKHumr9

John Mark Comer's New Book - Practicing the Way
https://www.amazon.com/Practicing-Way-Jesus-Become-like/dp/B0BVSPG7PZ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=34Q4RGJ46VZ42&keywords=john+mark+comer+practicing+the+way&qid=1706910156&s=books&sprefix=john+mark+comer%2Cstripbooks%2C104&sr=1-1

(00:00) - Definition of Discipleship: Show up, Join, Serve
(03:51) - Church Calendar: Moving Towards Hope in Darker Times
(04:54) - The Intersection of Church Calendar and Redemption
(07:56) - Exploring the concept of the shadow in the church
(11:50) - The church's shadow and its impact on discipleship
(14:36) - Questioning the effectiveness of current discipleship methods
(20:05) - Superficial Church Involvement: Checking the Boxes
(20:38) - The Effectiveness of Church Practices
(23:05) - Discipleship as Apprenticeship
(24:23) - The Role of Demonstration in Apprenticeship
(26:28) - Enlisting Help for Marathon Training and Church's Approach to Discipleship
(28:01) - The Church's Guilt in Simplistic Discipleship Approach
(30:18) - Expending Energy in Teaching the First Mile
(31:11) - Lack of Apprenticeship in Martial Arts Training
(32:52) - Examining the Church's Approach to Spiritual Growth
(34:23) - Recommended Reading and Podcasts for Deeper Learning
(34:55) - Interacting with the audience and podcast contact information
(38:21) - The half-life of caffeine and willingness for energy drink sponsorships
(39:29) - The fascination with health and wellness begins

Dealing with the Stress of Ministry

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 11:58:16 -0500

This week Cameron and Luke answer a few questions from listeners. First up they discuss a question from their last episode about demonic possession.

They take a few moments to discuss christian unity.

Then they respond to a series of questions related to handling the stress of pastoral ministry.

(00:00) - Wrestling with the Desire for Recognition
(01:54) - Addressing the Question: Can Christians be Possessed?
(07:56) - Exploring the Importance of Christian Unity
(10:51) - Exploring the Levels of Unity
(11:58) - Unity among Christians and the Church of Latter-day Saints
(15:41) - The Complexity of the Situation
(15:46) - The Pressure and Stress of Ministry
(17:46) - Fear of Impressing People Instead of Imparting Jesus' Message
(19:44) - Wrestling with the Pressure to Impress vs. Impact
(20:11) - Proposed Solutions and Alternatives
(21:31) - The Pressure to Perform Every Week
(23:22) - The Challenges of Being a Pastor
(25:31) - Struggling to Balance Responsibilities and Volunteer Management
(27:30) - Different Archetypes of Pastoral Leadership
(29:40) - The Increasing Demands and Expectations on Pastors
(31:09) - The Complexity of Being a Pastor Today
(36:25) - Focusing on Immediate Tasks vs. Organizational Progress
(37:06) - Balancing work and personal life as a leader
(39:09) - Putting Christ first in the midst of busyness
(43:23) - The challenges and decisions faced by pastors
(46:29) - Wrapping up the Week and Upcoming Meeting

Can Christians Be Possessed?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 16:09:43 -0500

Welcome back! After a hiatus over the holidays Luke and Cameron are back at the Mics.

This week they catch up on a few things about the coming year before diving into talking about the question, "Can Christians be Demon Possessed?"

Cameron and Luke both share some of their personal experiences and offer counsel on how to best think about things concerning the demonic. What does the Bible have to say to us about the topic?

What We Learned After a Year of Podcasting

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

We did it! The Uncut Podcast made it through one year! This episode we reflect on what we have learned in that year and what we hope to see in the future with the podcast. Thank you all for your faithful listening and contributing to the conversation. We look forward to what's in store next.

(00:06) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast: Faith, Life, and Ministry
(02:02) - Podcasting Platforms and Traffic Analysis
(03:52) - Reflections on the Value and Impact of the Podcast
(12:32) - The General Topic of Engaging in Conversations
(12:49) - Exploring the Role of Women in Ministry
(15:26) - Navigating Christian parenting and LGBTQ+ issues
(18:10) - The fear of being judged for the thought process
(22:12) - Frustration with Misunderstanding and Unwillingness to Engage
(23:29) - Valuing Difficult Conversations in Ministry
(27:32) - Engaging with Listeners and the Topic of Deconstruction
(30:09) - Surprising Reasons for Deconstruction
(31:35) - The Role of Scripture in Deconstruction
(34:19) - Trusting Self-Diagnosis of Deconstruction Reasons
(41:06) - Focusing on engaging popular topics and conversations
(43:57) - Taking a break to refresh for the new year

Every Christian Should Read These Books...

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

What books other than the Bible should we be reading? Pastor Luke and Cameron give some of their best recommended readings and why they think they are so important.

Here is a list of the books we mention:
https://conduitministries.notion.site/Books-Every-Christian-Should-Read-1756183320c64c6e9664a9b5dac96872?pvs=4

(00:00) - The Impossible Task of Choosing Just One Book
(02:02) - Bonhoeffer's Impactful Works: Cost of Discipleship and Life Together
(05:58) - The Radical Call of Caustic Discipleship
(07:47) - Bonhoeffer's Resistance Against Hitler and the Nazis
(08:01) - A Contemplation on Going Back to Germany
(10:00) - Martyrs for the Resurrection of Jesus Christ
(12:18) - Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis: A Classic Apologetic Work
(17:49) - The Thought-Provoking Allegory of The Screwtape Letters
(19:31) - The Cunningness of the Enemy to Destroy God's Children
(21:46) - Books that Deepen Perception of the Spiritual Realm
(24:21) - The Power of Perspective Shift in a Book
(26:25) - Modern Book Recommendations: Life of the Beloved by Henry Nowen
(26:58) - Recommended Book: Emotionally Healthy Discipleship by Peter Scazzaro
(28:52) - Recommended Books by Peterson for Ministry
(31:40) - Peterson's Influence in Pastoral Ministry
(32:04) - Nouwen's Philosophy of Ministry
(34:47) - Pushing towards a Merry Way of Being

Gluttony, The Body, and Sin

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 08:41:41 -0500

Is obesity a sin? What exactly is gluttony and how do we use it as a model for how we address sin?

This week Cam and Luke react to a video where someone claims that obesity is a sin. You can see that video here:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CxVsIxTLb8V/?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

(00:05) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast: Faith, Life, and Ministry
(01:58) - Gluttony vs Obesity: Understanding the Difference
(05:15) - Is Obesity a Sin? Differentiating Gluttony and Obesity
(07:10) - Gluttony: A Life of Ungenerous Excess
(09:51) - The challenge of not having a physical Bible.
(21:18) - College Cravings: A Burger Joint Nostalgia
(22:14) - Coping with Food as a Mechanism
(23:35) - The relationship between obesity and our physical bodies
(26:16) - Western versus Eastern perspectives on the body and faith
(29:10) - Jesus' resurrected body and its continuity and glorification
(32:34) - The impact of sleep and food on our overall well-being
(32:57) - The Body-Soul-Mind Connection
(43:16) - The Power of Attention in Content Creation
(47:51) - No Determination Made Today
(49:34) - Facing Criticism: "Don't come at me, bro."
(50:15) - Cameron Linehart's need for repentance and seeking forgiveness
(52:13) - Struggling with being gentle versus being mean

Does God Have a Calling on Your Life?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 03:00:00 -0500

Are you called by God? Are you called into ministry? Is the only calling there is for full-time ministry or does God have a calling for all people?

This week we talk about God's calling on people's lives and what that looks like. We weigh the different elements of calling and examine which ones are essential.

(00:00) - The Importance of Character in Moving Forward
(02:39) - Understanding the Comprehensive Conversation on Calling in Ministry
(12:15) - Calling on Character, not Occupation
(14:30) - Believers as a Holy Priesthood
(16:14) - The Role of Equipping Believers for Ministry
(17:31) - The Importance of Character in One's Calling
(21:17) - The Principle of Reaping and Sowing in Ministry
(23:23) - Reaping Publicly what was Sowed Privately
(23:36) - The Impact of Ministry Failures
(26:06) - Balancing Metrics and Spiritual Fruit
(28:10) - The Misconception of Preaching as the Main Ministry
(30:10) - The Reverse Focus: Calling to Conform to Christ's Image
(31:11) - Callings to Die to Self
(33:28) - Beware of Teachers Who Preach What You Want to Hear
(39:45) - The Three Foundations for Pastors: Calling, Gifts, and Character
(40:46) - Calling vs Character: Can one be developed?
(43:14) - Pursue Christ and emulate Him in every context of life.
(47:11) - The call of Christ is the same for everyone.
(47:53) - Audience Engagement: Questions and Suggestions

Preaching Romans and the Call to Ministry

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 12:10:45 -0500

This week we talk about our experiences in preaching and how it affects our understanding of scripture. We finish with talking about the call into ministry.

(00:00) - Introduction and absence from recording for three weeks
(02:18) - Preaching through the Book of Romans
(05:41) - The value of preaching smaller chunks in Romans
(07:48) - Preaching Style: Verse-by-Verse vs. Idea-to-Idea
(13:25) - Greek and Hebrew References: Necessary or Patronizing?
(19:26) - Different Perspectives on Romans Discussion
(20:43) - The Nuanced Understanding of God's Justice in Romans
(23:06) - The Theological Conviction of Perspicuity of Scripture
(24:30) - The process of creating sermons and Bible studies
(27:29) - The seriousness of studying and understanding scripture
(29:24) - Humble Beginnings: Preaching at 14
(32:00) - Preaching during the Purpose-Driven Movement
(34:19) - Preaching on the Lord's Prayer and VHS Tapes
(39:06) - Preaching: The Easiest Part of Ministry
(41:44) - The Challenges and Growth in Preaching
(44:53) - The Cliché Answer of Pursuing Ministry
(46:43) - Discerning a call to ministry: Exploring the signs.
(47:53) - A Burning Passion for Life's Work
(50:06) - Exploring alternative ways to serve the church
(53:03) - Introducing Pastor Cameron and Conduit Ministries

Responding to Deconstruction

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Cameron and Luke take time to respond to several comments and messages from their last podcast episode. Those questions cover things like the role of faith, miracles, and oversimplifying deconstruction. They talk about some things they are learning about deconstruction and try to respond well to the questions raised. Join them as they continue this conversation.

(00:00) - Emotionally exhausting deconstruction
(02:35) - Follow-up discussion on last podcast episode
(04:17) - Conversations turning ugly, appreciation for respectful comments
(07:02) - Fringe theological beliefs and church hurt in deconstruction discussion
(11:02) - Lack of Love in Theological Interpretations
(15:18) - The divide between belief and disbelief in Christianity
(20:38) - Challenging the concept of belief and reacting to it
(24:01) - Beliefs are not untested, but thoroughly examined and considered
(33:14) - Faith Seeking Understanding: Exploring the concept of faith
(35:49) - Questioning the Authority of Scripture
(38:34) - Faith and Belief in the Bible
(39:16) - The Burden of Proof in the Existence of God
(43:18) - Contextualizing the Bible: Literary and Historical Perspectives
(52:08) - The Existence of God and Belief in Miracles
(55:29) - Exploring the Lack of Miracles in Everyday Life
(57:31) - The Role of Harm in Deconstruction
(58:35) - The Role of Personal Hurt in Deconstruction

What's Behind People Deconstructing Faith?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Deconstruction is a big buzz word, but why does it seem like everyone is doing it? Are there patterns as to why people deconstruct their faith? Are there even some reasonable reasons why they start deconstructing?

Cameron and Luke dive into the big reasons people deconstruct and how there needs to be a pastoral response not just a theological response.

0:00:00 Intro
0:02:30 Curiosity about Deconstruction and Faith Crisis Perceptions
0:03:04 Importance of Pastoral and Theological Responses
0:03:52 Challenging the Black-and-White Perspective
0:05:34 Church's Fear of Post-Modernism
0:06:17 The Contention: Constructing a Thought System to See the World
0:08:16 Holding Beliefs with Clarity and Openness
0:09:09 The Complexities of Interpreting the Word of God
0:11:20 *Teaser Clip - Consequences of Misinterpreting Scripture
0:15:10 Sons of God and Daughters of Man
0:18:40 Hermeneutic Gymnastics and Special Revelation
0:20:53 Jumping off from truth to conjecture
0:21:44 Exploring Nuances of Belief in Christianity
0:29:52 Lack of Nuance in Church Teaching and Deconstruction
0:32:19 The Nuanced Communication of God's Love and Eternal Punishment
0:37:00 The Need for Churches to Bridge the Gap on Scripture Authority

(00:00) - The Church's Disconnect: Why People Walk Away
(02:30) - Curiosity about Deconstruction and Faith Crisis Perceptions
(03:04) - Importance of Pastoral and Theological Responses
(03:51) - Challenging the Black-and-White Perspective
(05:34) - Church's Fear of Post-Modernism
(06:17) - The Contention: Constructing a Thought System to See the World
(08:15) - Holding Beliefs with Clarity and Openness
(09:09) - The Complexities of Interpreting the Word of God
(11:20) - The Harmful Consequences of Misinterpreting Scripture
(15:10) - Sons of God and Daughters of Man
(18:39) - Hermeneutic Gymnastics and Special Revelation
(20:53) - Jumping off from truth to conjecture
(21:44) - Exploring Nuances of Belief in Christianity
(29:51) - Lack of Nuance in Church Teaching and Deconstruction
(32:18) - The Nuanced Communication of God's Love and Eternal Punishment
(36:59) - The Need for Churches to Bridge the Gap on Scripture Authority

Andy Stanley, Homosexuality, and A Pastoral Response

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we pick up our conversation from last week. How should Christians and churches strive to honor God but also love others? We talk about church discipline and the difficulty of integrating that into church life.

(00:08) - Introduction and Recap of Last Week's Conversation
(02:44) - Current Events Overshadowing Previous Discussion
(03:25) - Recognizing Different Perspectives on Conference Content
(12:11) - Questioning the Accuracy of the New Testament
(12:35) - Guarding against false teaching within communities of faith
(22:35) - Questioning the Opportunistic Nature of the Conference
(25:07) - Lack of Biblical Foundation for Accountability in this Context
(26:37) - Principles of ministry and accountability in churches
(29:07) - Offering a critical lens and detangling complex topics in ministry
(32:24) - Handling congregants who remain stagnant in their spiritual growth
(34:23) - Exploring the Voices in One's Mind
(39:33) - Extending Grace to Believers and Unbelievers
(42:40) - The Cost of Discipleship and Holding Accountable
(46:23) - The Criteria for Casting Out
(53:01) - The Cultural Bridge of Sexual Morality
(55:04) - Uncertainty about Personal Sin and Fellowship
(58:00) - Avoiding Sin Hunting and Excluding the Church
(58:38) - The Complicated Nature of Pastoral, Church, and Family Issues

Israel - A Theological and Pastoral Response | Bonus Episode

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 12:11:52 -0400

The world is reeling as war has broken out between Israel and the Gaza Strip. Everyone has a hot take and is rushing to pick sides. In this bonus episode of the uncut podcast, Cameron and Luke offer both a pastoral and theological response to current events. The Bible informs us how we see everything. As Christians, we should seek to be both biblically informed and Christlike in our response.

(00:04) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast with Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron
(01:07) - Questions Arise for Christian People
(01:27) - Responding to Trending Stories and Charitable Perspectives
(03:12) - Staying in One's Lane: Not an Expert on Middle East Politics
(05:45) - The Challenge of Biased Sources and Lack of In-depth Research
(06:46) - The limitations of including religious history in the area
(07:09) - Detachment from the Conflict's Impact on Human Experience
(09:05) - The Long-standing History of the Israel-Palestine Conflict
(10:19) - God's Covenant with Abraham and the Promise of Land
(13:18) - The Significance of the Promised Land for the Israelites
(14:44) - Joshua's Incomplete Task and the Consequences
(17:48) - Unpopular Bible Passages: Old Testament vs New Testament
(19:35) - God's Promise of Land to Israel: Theological Belief
(21:55) - Escalation of Conflict and Civilian Casualties
(22:19) - Uncertainty Surrounding Political Movements in the Conflict
(24:01) - Complexity of War in the Middle East
(25:43) - Israel's Right to End the Conflict and the Consequences
(27:40) - The Complexity of Supporting Israel without Full Agreement
(30:03) - The Pressure to Share Opinions on Social Media and News

Unpacking Andy Stanley, Albert Mohler & The Unconditional Conference

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Andy Stanley and Alber Mohler. Over the course of the last few weeks, the controversy surrounding Andy Stanley's decision to host the Unconditional Conference has drawn severe criticism. With many taking sides, the conversation about biblical adherence and pastoral wisdom has taken center stage. Both leaders seek to honor God in their own way. Is there anything we can learn? Can we untangle some of the controversy?

Pastor Cameron and Pastor Luke weigh in with what they are reflecting on. How they are applying the conversation to their own context and hopefully help others process.

Links mentioned in the show:
Conference site:
https://www.embracingthejourney.org/unconditional-conference.html
Albert Mohler's First article:
https://wng.org/opinions/the-train-is-leaving-the-station-1695036498
Andy Stanley's Response:
https://youtu.be/JEPHnpos17A?si=3waFcUDJyo0eTjzU
Albert Mohler's Second Response:
https://wng.org/opinions/go-and-sin-no-more-1696305138
https://albertmohler.com/2023/10/03/briefing-10-3-23

For more discussion on Homosexuality and the church, check out episodes 11 & 12 of the uncut podcast.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/ad37514a
https://share.transistor.fm/s/1a3f8ad3

(00:07) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast
(03:59) - Youth grappling with same-sex attraction in church groups
(06:28) - Ministry Leaders Seek Training and Support
(09:47) - Albert Moeller Criticizes Conference for Departing from Biblical Christianity
(13:19) - Moeller Doubles Down on Criticism in Podcast Response
(17:48) - Trusting the Speaker's Claim
(18:00) - Pastoring the Confused and Hurt
(19:40) - Sympathy for Andy's Pastoral Response
(22:28) - Stanley's response video increases respect for him as a pastor
(26:55) - Moeller seeks unity of belief, Stanley emphasizes unity of teaching
(34:46) - Context and intention behind inviting parents to share stories
(38:11) - Critique of degree program encouraging agreement with authors' views
(41:02) - Balancing exposure to differing views with theological convictions
(44:09) - Examining the level of relationship and affirmation in ministry participation
(45:24) - Scriptural teachings on association and corrupting influences
(45:48) - The tension between inclusivity and lines in Christianity
(48:26) - Andy's responsibility as a leader and the pulpit as a sacred trust
(58:03) - Expectations in Church Communities and the Need for Repentance
(01:01:30) - Maintaining Membership and the Consequences of Exclusion
(01:03:22) - The Uncut Podcast text line and viewer engagement

How to Grow Spiritually Part 2

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we follow up on our last episode and dig into how someone grows spiritually.

Too often, the impact of community or the benefit of contemplative spirituality is overlooked. Cameron and Luke dig into why these areas are sometimes ignored. Community can come with its challenges, but without it, we miss out on God's plan for our growth.

(00:08) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast: Faith, Life, and Ministry
(04:28) - The Long Obedience in Ministry
(05:22) - The Challenges of Chaotic Weeks and Vulnerability
(08:31) - Working Harder to Overcome Challenges and Uphill Battles
(11:17) - Formation over information: The importance of spiritual disciplines
(19:25) - Orthopraxy: Balancing right practice with right belief
(23:19) - The Power of Contemplation and Applying it to Life
(26:41) - The Eastern Church's contemplative approach versus academia
(30:19) - Shift from classical to scientific approach in scholasticism
(32:41) - The impact of practices and formation on our lives
(35:47) - Surrendering our bodies through fasting for spiritual mastery
(38:12) - Pursuing Proximity to Holy People for Spiritual Growth
(40:49) - The Importance of Community in Spiritual Growth
(43:04) - Love as the Foundation of Relationships
(45:46) - Speaking Truth in Love and Accountability
(47:27) - The Beautiful Thing About Gospel Community
(48:25) - Rejoicing and Mourning Together in Gospel Community
(53:43) - Blurring the Lines: Work Family vs. Affinity Groups
(56:22) - Pursuing and Building Gospel Community

How Do You Grow Spiritually?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

How do you actually grow as a follower of Jesus? What if some of the most common ways Christian growth is discussed falls short. Cameron and Luke talk about what it looks like to actually grow in spiritual maturity.

Too often, the spiritual life is reduced to knowledge only. This week's discussion talks about often neglected character and emotional maturity.

When Is It Okay To Leave a Church?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

When is it time to walk out the door of a church? What are legitimate reasons to consider finding another church? This week, Cameron and Luke discuss reasons someone might leave a church and what it is like from the pastor's perspective. In a world of consumerism, how do we avoid bringing that same mentality to our church experience?

(00:14) - Uncut conversations about faith, life, and ministry
(02:49) - Encouraging feedback and personal care products change
(03:10) - Dismissing Axe's Unpleasant Scent
(03:34) - The Smell of Middle Schoolers and Deodorant Choices
(08:01) - Defining Heresy: Disagreements on Primary Theological Issues
(09:15) - Discussion about the topic of the virgin birth
(09:37) - The Antithesis to the Creed: Creation and Evolution
(20:15) - Practical Reasons to Leave a Church
(23:19) - Importance of Meaningful Engagement in Church Community
(32:44) - Ministry is not about us, but it still hurts.
(36:07) - Backseat pastoring and the challenges of church leadership.
(37:29) - Confidence in One's Abilities
(37:54) - Leaving a church due to lack of spiritual fulfillment
(42:02) - Chasing spiritual highs and avoiding deeper issues
(46:12) - Unhealthy churches: theological soundness vs. relational and ethical health
(48:01) - The Role of Preaching in Church Health
(53:39) - Importance of Communication and Graceful Departure
(57:41) - The Challenge of Silence and Confidentiality in the Church
(01:00:22) - Encouragement to Share the Podcast on Social Media

What's the Deal with Christian Nationalism?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, we discuss the role of conservative evangelicals in politics and the dangers of mixing politics and religion. Why does politics so often become a primary issue for Christians? What is at the heart of this shift, and how is it affecting those who don't fall in line?

(00:06) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast, honest conversations about faith and life.
(03:37) - Different preferences for consuming podcasts.
(06:12) - The Lack of Nuance in Political Discourse
(09:35) - The Intersection of Religion and Politics
(12:30) - Shifting Perspectives: A Global View of Christianity and Politics
(14:12) - Identity and Faith in a Political World
(18:07) - Mixing Politics and Religion: The Danger of Synonymizing Candidates with God
(27:15) - Cultural Divide: Urban vs. Rural America
(29:48) - Frustration and Cultural Differences in Rural America
(33:15) - Being a Christian is not dependent on a political candidate
(34:13) - Trump's appeal to Christians and Christian values
(36:17) - Fighting for the Kingdom of God
(43:51) - Religious Freedom and Underground Churches in Oppressed Nations
(49:08) - Frustration and Uncertainty in Conversation
(49:23) - Trump's Election and the Deconstruction of Christianity

Do Jesus & Politics Mix?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

What do we do with our faith and our political convictions? Does the Bible dictate all of our political beliefs? Is Jesus American? This week, pastor Cameron and Luke wade into the charged waters of politics and faith. They tackle questions like can we mandate our religious beliefs through laws, and where are the lines?

(00:04) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast and its hosts
(03:36) - Learning how to make a proper cup of English tea
(06:51) - Reflecting on the growth of their podcast and audience
(11:11) - Impact of camera on politics and public personas
(15:20) - The authority and trust placed on online voices
(19:26) - Seeking Guidance from Jesus in All Aspects of Life
(23:06) - Jesus' Avoidance of Political Power and Influence
(31:29) - Questioning the Existence of Something
(31:49) - Questioning the Political Identity of Evangelical Christians
(37:53) - Church and Israel: Are They the Same?
(39:25) - Working for the Good of the City and Political Advocacy
(43:35) - The Struggle of Surrendering to Jesus
(43:45) - The Question of Abiding by Christian Morality
(44:21) - Debate over prayer in schools and religious freedom
(48:08) - Imposing Christian values vs. loving our neighbors
(51:59) - The Justice of God and Genocide in Scripture
(01:00:48) - Nationalism and Deconstruction in Politics

Reading the Bible When Deconstructing

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Cameron and Luke discuss a trend they notice in people who are deconstructing their faith. Many times, people are reacting to harsh, heavy-handed preaching. Too often, the Bible is used as a club. What if Bible preaching was meant to respect the nuances and ambiguity of the text. Cameron and Luke share their perspective on biblical interpretation and preaching.

(00:08) - Introduction to the Uncut Podcast
(02:26) - Frustration with Lack of Feedback in Podcasting
(08:53) - The Challenge of Interpreting Biblical Theology
(09:59) - The Challenge of Preaching on Eternal Topics
(10:38) - The Confusion Surrounding Biblical Figures: Satan, Antichrist, and More
(11:35) - Symbolism and imagery in religious texts
(12:19) - Connecting Revelation to Historical Moments and Persons
(20:48) - Challenging Non-Negotiable Christian Theology
(22:51) - Personal Theological Journey and Non-Commitment to Systematic Theology
(34:07) - Misinterpretation of Deborah's Role as a Judge
(34:47) - The debate on spanking as a form of discipline
(37:04) - Pastors as a source of authority versus the authority of the word
(38:59) - Trusting the message based on the speaker's title
(42:26) - Jesus' Parables: Communicating Spiritual Reality
(45:05) - Bible Questions and Expertise

Definitions of Success

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 03:00:00 -0400

Cameron & Luke discuss how they define "success" in their lives. Inspired by "Leveling Up" by Ryan Leak, the weave between the personal and the professional in search of a way to understand the goals they pursue. They wrestle with ambition in ministry and reflect on how "success" looks in their personal relationships.

(00:05) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast: Faith, Life, and Ministry
(02:28) - Finding Time for Personal Growth at the Gym
(11:10) - Pursuing Growth as a Writer and Preacher
(15:56) - Transitioning to Marriage: Goals as a Husband
(23:59) - The Art of Rhetoric in Speaking vs. Writing
(25:50) - Finding Value in a Brother in Christ
(26:43) - The Evolution of Preaching and Writing
(33:29) - Defining the True Heart's Desire for Ministry and Calling
(35:07) - Searching for Examples of Christ-like Figures in Life
(39:19) - Ambitions as a Writer and Pastor of Pastors
(40:46) - Impacting Lives through Preaching and Ministry
(43:13) - Providing a Faithful and Authentic Presence for Transformation
(45:09) - A Season of Writing in the Future
(47:59) - Exploring the Meaning of Success
(49:48) - Reflecting on the conversation and its benefits

Leading with Consistency

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we discuss our experience attending the Global Leadership Summit in Chicago. We reflect on the benefits of attending in person and highlight key speakers. We delve into the importance of attention to detail and authenticity in leadership. We also share our personal challenges and desire to serve without seeking temporary accolades. Listen in for more insights and join the conversation!

(00:09) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast and Recent Travel
(02:35) - Watching Conference Online: Cost-effective and Travel-free
(03:55) - The Catalyst conference experience and its impact
(06:26) - The presence of loved ones and favorite speakers
(10:02) - Mentioning notable speakers and their talks
(14:35) - Attention to Detail in Bicycles and Sin
(16:23) - Fixing Leaky Faucets and Restoring Water Pressure
(17:13) - Anita's Story: F1 Racing Team Transformation Begins
(18:01) - A Manager's Unusual Approach to Training Custodian
(19:27) - Elevating the Importance of a "Menial" Job
(28:03) - Transparency, Empathy, and People-Centered Leadership
(31:53) - Balancing Discouragement and Encouragement in Leadership
(33:38) - Integrating Leadership Principles without Feeling Overwhelmed
(35:36) - Aiming for Long-Term Change: Long Obedience in the Same Direction
(36:25) - The desire for long-lasting impact as a pastor
(38:13) - The emptiness of seeking praise from men
(41:06) - Wrapping up the conversation and expressing gratitude

Sin & Suffering

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, we continue our discussion on theological neglected theological topics. We talk about Sin and the significance of understanding the image of God, the misconceptions about suffering, and the stages of love in the Christian life.

(00:03) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast and its Purpose
(01:16) - The Importance of Forgiveness and Divorce in Christian Theology
(03:14) - Bad Theology Surrounding Sin and Equating Sins
(05:27) - Wesley's Emphasis on Grace
(08:16) - The Lessening of the Pervasiveness of Sin in Mainline Denominations
(08:43) - The Unraveling of Modern Denominations
(10:54) - The Role of Biblical Authority in Guiding the Church
(12:02) - The concept of sin and its definition
(14:23) - The challenge of defining harm and its recipients
(17:21) - The struggle of utilitarianism and moral philosophy
(20:07) - The value and dignity of being human
(24:23) - A Robust Theology of Suffering
(26:48) - Misconceptions of Spiritual Growth and Faith
(31:49) - Consolation, Desolation, and Stages of Love in Christian Life
(36:43) - The Temptation to Constantly Seek Spiritual Stimulus
(38:01) - The Problem with "Hype Church" Culture
(40:10) - Frustration with the Cycle of Emotional Peaks and Valleys
(40:23) - The Immature Conception of the Spiritual Life
(41:17) - Reflecting on personal experiences and perspectives

Missing Theology

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

We start with an engaging question, "what are the theological truths that are missing from our modern understandings?"

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, we examine the significance of forgiveness in the New Testament. We debunk misconceptions and emphasize that forgiveness is a personal choice rooted in the gospel. We explore the connection between forgiveness and God's forgiveness towards us, while addressing the weight of unforgiveness in our lives. Additionally, we touch on the misuse of scripture and its impact on understanding complex topics like divorce. Join us as we continue to explore these important topics in future episodes.

(00:01) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast with Pastor Luke and Pastor Cameron
(02:23) - The Challenges of Big Questions
(02:43) - Different Perspectives on Broad Topics
(03:06) - The Importance of Forgiveness
(05:04) - The Lord's Prayer and the Concept of Forgiveness
(06:21) - The Struggle with Forgiveness
(07:31) - Forgiveness and Love: Understanding the Connection
(09:11) - The Misconceptions of Forgiveness and its Consequences
(12:23) - The Importance of Forgiveness for Personal Liberation
(12:59) - Wisdom and protection: When to end a relationship
(19:40) - The power of forgiveness: Nailing offenses to the cross
(21:24) - Unforgiveness and relational strife: A generational issue
(23:12) - Surrendering hurt to the Lord: Trusting His carrying power
(25:35) - Forgiveness as an Existential Question
(27:25) - Relationship with God - Part One
(28:22) - A Moral Handbook with Multiple Directions
(28:35) - Diluting the Context of Scripture for Social Acceptance
(38:43) - The Complex Nature of Marriage and Divorce

A New Ministry & Podcast

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the Uncut Podcast! Today, we discuss the challenges of opening up without fear of judgment. We explore the concept of expertise and its connection to time and dedication. We introduce our new ministry project, Rooted Life Change, offering support and growth from a gospel-centered perspective. Join us as we dive into topics of rootedness, addiction, and stepping out of denial. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share the episode. Thanks for joining us!

Check out Rooted:
https://bio.site/rootedlifechange

(00:05) - Introducing the Uncut Podcast: Faith, Life, and Ministry
(01:56) - Reflecting on Almost a Year of Podcasting
(08:17) - Reflecting on 19 Years of Experience
(11:37) - The Multidisciplinary Work of Pastoring
(13:08) - Balancing Ministry Hours and Podcasting
(19:17) - Exploring Different Self-Transformation Programs
(20:18) - The Discontinuity Between Recovery Programs and Desired Offerings
(22:20) - The dangers of over-interpreting the Bible for self-help purposes
(24:53) - The complexity of interpreting the Book of Job
(29:58) - The Modality of the Program: Taproot and Capillary Roots
(32:20) - The image of the Blessed Man in Psalm 1
(34:08) - Introducing the Rooted Life Change program and podcast
(37:49) - Numbing the bad things versus embracing the good things
(39:21) - The underlying problem beneath addiction
(44:09) - Acknowledging the effort and looking forward to future changes

Cringe Pastors on the Internet

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

In this episode of the Uncut Podcast, we discuss the troubling trend of pastors behaving inappropriately during church services, the lack of accountability among church leaders, and the impact of social media. We explore the blurred lines between entertainment and worship, critique abusive church leadership, and emphasize the importance of focusing on Christ rather than charisma. We advocate for wise social media use and consuming content that aligns with our dedication to Christ.

Mentioned in the podcast:
Research on church size and attendance

(00:04) - Introduction to the Uncut Podcast
(01:29) - Lack of Accountability in Congregations
(04:26) - Outrageous Behavior in Smaller Independent Churches
(06:34) - A Disruptive Encounter in the Church
(08:37) - Excessive pre-workout leads to a morning devotional disaster.
(09:27) - Revealing the True Character of a Pastor
(15:11) - Challenges of Reporting Church Misconduct
(17:28) - Majority of Christians shifting towards attending big churches
(20:43) - Church size context: Small vs big varies by location
(22:29) - The Influence of Social Media on Church Perception
(25:36) - Matching Success with Character: A Higher Standard
(28:00) - Controversial Clips vs. Preaching the Gospel
(29:36) - A Cowboy, Easter Bunny, and Santa Claus in Church
(42:26) - The Influence and Character of Church Leaders
(45:14) - The Need for Greater Accountability and Change in Churches
(48:40) - The Challenge of Attending a Church with Subpar Preaching
(51:06) - Not All Pastors Are Like the Outrageous Ones on Social Media
(54:16) - The Dangers of Ministries Focused on Exposing Others
(57:23) - Guidelines for social media use and avoiding arguments.

Me, Jesus & My Phone

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

We discuss the impact of technology and social media, reflecting on the addictive nature of smartphones. We share our struggles and provide strategies for limiting phone usage. Please share your thoughts and experiences with us!

Resources mentioned in the episode
Book: Stolen Focus
OPAL APP
BRICK APP

(00:06) - Milestone Reached: 2,000 Downloads
(03:21) - The Impact of Technology on Solitude and Focus
(07:57) - First Encounter with the Internet and Intriguing Discoveries
(11:10) - From Bag Phones to Personal Cell Phones: Technological Advancement
(15:23) - The Temptation of Phone Distractions
(17:02) - Feeling victimized by social engineering and distractions
(24:23) - The Distraction of Phones during Spiritual Retreats
(27:08) - The Dynamic of Phone Usage and App Preferences
(28:50) - The allure of potential and the fear of missing out
(34:05) - The neurochemistry behind phone addiction and seeking behavior
(37:28) - Escaping shame through excessive drinking
(40:13) - The normalization and impact of social media addiction
(47:27) - Big Tech and Conscience: Leaving for Ethical Reasons
(50:52) - Balancing meaningful connections and maintaining contact information
(01:00:10) - Exploring the Impact of Social Media and Technology

Sabbaths & Sermons

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

This week Cameron and Luke reflect on how their understanding of the need for rest has grown over ministry. They also reflect on sermon writing and the work that goes into them. They dig into why sermon length matters and their process for writing. We hope this more reflective and less topical episode gives you greater insight not only into pastoral ministry but also the gift of rest and sabbath.

The Duggers Documentary

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Pastor Cameron and Pastor Luke decide to talk about the Duggers documentary "Shiny Happy People." They hope to add some reflection and help people navigate the difficult story that is told. It seems like a story that is run on repeat too many times. Another Christian scandal where abuse was hidden and justified using the Bible. We need to wrestle with the evil that was committed while also understanding that this doesn't have to destroy our faith.

Because of the documentary's content, this episode may not be suitable for children or helpful if you are sensitive to abuse topics. The episode is not vulgar; it does address some of the conversations around the sexual content of the documentary.

Understanding The Beatitudes

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

One of the most famous sections of Jesus' teachings in the Bible is also one of the often most misunderstood. In response to a listener question Cameron and Luke do a quick overview of the Beatitudes and hopefully shed some light on a passage that has sometimes led to confusion.

Consumerism & The Church

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

What does a mall and a church have in common? Well, hopefully nothing, but unfortunately, the mindset of consumerism continues to rise in all of our places. Cameron and Luke discuss the rise of the consumer mindset that is slowly eating away at the true call of Christ.

Let’s Talk About Friendship

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 07:42:58 -0400

We all need friends, but somewhere between the schoolyard and adulthood, it gets hard. Why is it that so many of us struggle to make and maintain friendships as adults. What makes a good friendship and how does one start a friendship? This week Cameron and Luke are joined by Cylas Conway, a friend of Luke’s.

Role of The Holy Spirit & Pentacost

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 29 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400

This week Cameron and Luke talk about Pentecost, the Holy Spirit, and tounges! They sift through what is clear and unclear and shed some light on some common theological pitfalls regarding the Holy Spirit.

How do you find Volunteers?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 22 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

This week Cameron and Luke reflect on the balance of pastoring and shepherding but also needing to run a church. Ministry takes people and energy, something that is often in short supply. They reflect on the balance of wanting to call people to serve and letting people not feel overwhelmed in life.

Deconstruction Part 2

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 15 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Does deconstruction always lead in one direction? How do we love and sit with someone who is deconstructing? Too often, we fail to listen deeply to those wrestling with God. But we must still hold the truth that God remains God, and we are not. This week we pick up with deeper reflections on deconstructing and detangling our faith.

Deconstructing Faith

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 08 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

This week we dig into what exactly deconstruction is and why people everywhere seem to be doing it. We examine the good and bad role it can play in our walk with God. Our hope is that you find this discussion helpful wherever you find yourself.

Talking About Tough Weeks

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

This week we have an honest conversation about sticking it out in ministry even on weeks when we feel like we don't have much left to give. This one is an honest episode, and we hope that you find some encouragement if you ever find yourself with very little left in the tank.

Water & Spirit

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

This week we continue our discussion on sacraments. We dive into what baptism is and what its role is in the life of the believer. We tackle the questions of who should be baptized and when. The underlying meaning of baptism is sometimes lost and we hope this discussion gives greater clarity to what baptism means.

(00:41) - Catholic?
(03:19) - Review & Meaning of the Sacraments
(11:10) - Do I have to get baptized?
(15:02) - Baptism of Jesus
(22:41) - When should someone get baptized?
(28:31) - Baptism Classes?
(41:15) - Judging the outward appearance
(55:05) - Sprinkle or Dunk?
(01:01:06) - Infant Baptism?
(01:04:37) - Closing thoughts

Bread & Wine

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

What is communion? What do we mean when we call something a sacrament? This week we continue our conversation from last week and dig into the specifics of communion and its underlying theology.

(00:43) - Denomonationalism
(16:24) - What do we mean by sacraments?
(19:42) - Is communion "biblical"?
(46:56) - Communion in the New Testament
(01:13:21) - closing thoughts

Liturgy & Sacrament

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

What's the deal with the church calendar? How much liturgy and ritual are we supposed to have in our services? This week we explore how we have grown to appreciate the meaning behind liturgical practices and how we integrate them in our own leadership. We begin to dig into the meaning behind the sacraments and set up a larger discussion about their importance and practice.

(00:29) - Maundy Thursday
(07:45) - The Church Calendar
(17:48) - How we plan what we preach
(26:12) - Appreciating Liturgy
(34:02) - Changing how we do communion
(48:20) - The meaning of the Sacrements
(01:04:14) - Closing

Homosexuality & the Church Part 2

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

We continue our discussion about homosexuality and Christian theology and practice. We dig into some practical questions about conversion therapy and whether an openly gay couple can attend church.

We hope that our conversation models grace and truth. It's a matter of seeking Jesus above seeking to live by a moral checklist.

(02:53) - What about conversion therapy?
(12:37) - Can a homosexual be a Christian?
(22:55) - What if a gay couple shows up to church?
(39:35) - Responding to an affirming statement

Homosexuality & The Church

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Is homosexuality compatible with orthodox Christian belief? Do we need to be speaking out more? Why is it such a difficult topic for some? This week we talk openly about our theology surrounding sexuality, especially homosexuality. We attempt to give a starting place for our theological opinions and wrestle with the difficult pastoral task it presents.

We want to love our neighbors and point others to Jesus but we must remain truthful on our convictions about what the Bible teaches. We read this article and it sparked in us the conversation that we had today. We hope that this is a helpful discussion for you wherever it is you find yourself in your wrestling with this topic.

(00:33) - Fired over a Tweet
(04:32) - The context for the discussion
(22:46) - What the Bible teaches
(41:41) - How do we still practice love?
(57:24) - Pastoral Closing Remarks

Responding to a Catholic Critic

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Are protestants just heretics? Today respond to a listener-submitted video. A catholic makes several points accusing protestants of simply being heretics. We take her points as a launching pad for our discussion. You can watch the original video here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CoFeqt5LY8v/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

We cover some of the significant differences between Catholics and Protestants. While there are many differences, there are some similarities. We hope this conversation sparks critical thinking and greater understanding.

(01:00) - Introduction
(09:52) - Calling Mary Blessed
(21:20) - The Eucharist
(37:53) - The Pope
(44:25) - Saved By Works or Faith?
(52:29) - Sola Scriptura
(01:06:00) - Catholic or catholic

Faith & Mental Health

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Why is it that Christians often have a hard time integrating mental health struggles into their faith journey? We discuss the gaps that we might have in our theological understandings.

To submit your questions and topic you can text our mailbag at - (716) 201-0507

Christians can forget that we are created as whole beings, with a body and mind as well as a soul. Too often, mental health struggles are disregarded or shamed in the church. We think we need to be creating space in the church to have our mental health journeys be a part of what we can talk about.

Mail Time! - The need for rest, Dealing with Demons, and Giving out Bibles.

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0500

It's our first Mailbag Episode! We tackle questions dealing with sabbath, demons, and when to give someone a Bible. If you want to contribute your topic or question to our mailbag you can text us at - (716) 201-9467

Pastor Cameron went on a sabbatical last year. We both take time to reflect on both of our experiences during that time, and how the need for rest and sabbath is an ongoing need. The next question leads us down the path of spiritual warfare and demons. We do our best to share what is clear from scripture and some from our own experience. We hope anyone will find this helpful and ultimately encouraging. The last question we talk about how to encourage someone with the gift of the Bible. Really it's not just the Bible people need but a relationship with someone who point them to Jesus through the Bible.

Chapters:
00:00:00 - Intro
00:01:05 - Need for Sabbath
00:25:31 - Dealing with Demons
00:50:15 - Giving out Bibles

(01:05) - Chapter 2
(25:31) - Chapter 3
(50:15) - Chapter 4

Let's Talk About Celebrity Pastors

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 16:34:57 -0500

When did pastors become celebrities? We have seen a massive shift in who pastors are expected to be. We discuss the tricky dynamics of people elevating pastors to an unhealthy place. This episode is not meant to be a deep dive or a calling out of specific pastors. We also talk briefly about the difficult task of forgiveness amidst hurt and failure.

Sermons on forgiveness
https://share.transistor.fm/s/df9d8690
https://share.transistor.fm/s/ab0de8c5
https://share.transistor.fm/s/9efa79ac

The Asbury Revival: Bonus Episode

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 21:00:00 -0500

A lot is being said about the Asbury revival, but we felt that some things were being left unsaid or unexplored. We made this episode quickly this week as a bonus to enter into the discussion of how we approach and talk about not just the Asbury revival that is happening right now but a revival in general. We discuss what revival is but also offer our own personal reflections on the topic. We hope this stirs up in you a desire to pursue Jesus and see revival in your own life wherever you are.

AI and a Theology of Preaching

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

With the popular rise of Artificial Intelligence, it becomes necessary to begin thinking through one practical implication of text writing AIs like Chat GPT. What do we make of the possibility of AI being used to write sermons? Does it make a difference if AI writes a sermon if it is still true and based on God's word?

In this episode, we use a video made by Matt Whitman as a starting point for our conversation. Matt puts three sermons together, two done by AI and one not.

The video we watched is here.

Does God use shame?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Why do so many people use gravitate toward guilt and shame? Is shame a good part of the spiritual life?

This week we talk about the question of whether or not God uses shame to draw us to Himself. We deal with why maybe we are drawn to shame and how we have confused that with what it means to be spiritual. We examine the Bible for themes and see what God says about how he intends for us to come close to him. It seems like God intends rather to use kindness.

Pastors Cameron and Luke explore this topic by reflecting on their own experiences and the Bible in this episode of the podcast.

Is online church just as good?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Online church has become a normal thing but is it an assumed good thing? Does theology have any impact on how wether we watch online or come in person to church.

Finding God's will & What do you call your pastor?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0500

This week we talk about pastoral calling, what you should call your pastor, and discerning God's will. [1:30] - What should you call your pastor? [19:20] - Finding God's Will

Is that Biblical?

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0500

In our first full episode, we discuss the question, "is that biblical?" We often encounter questions of whether a thing or a decision is good or right and try and place it against the Bible. Today we talk about if that's really the best way to even use the Bible.

The Uncut Podcast Preview Episode

Cameron Lienhart, Luke Miller — Mon, 02 Jan 2023 10:40:58 -0500

Text your questions and topics to (716) 201-0507