Brad Hambrick

On April 12, 2016 The Sam James Institute of The Summit Church hosted a forum built around the subject of my book Do Ask, Do Tell, Let’s Talk: How and Why Christians Should Have Gay Friends. The forum consisted of a presentation that over viewed the content of the book followed by a panel discussion with individuals who either experience same sex attraction or have extensive ministry-counseling experience in the area of same sex attraction. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A discussion of biblical wisdom as a simple, character-based pursuit that balances pleasure and fear of God. Topics include impulse control, delayed gratification, and reasonable risk. They explore adapting to culture without losing identity, wise vulnerability, and how failure and humiliation can fuel growth.

A talk about what biblical security looks like and how steadiness helps you interpret performance, relationships, and uncertain situations. A baseball analogy illustrates maintaining perspective amid shifting circumstances. The conversation warns against Christianized idols and making people your ultimate judge. It explores why chasing approval or “enough” leads to perpetual insecurity and misplaced priorities.

A conversation about finding Christ-centered confidence, not tied to achievements or conditions. They explore trustworthy objects of faith, accurate self-assessment, and contentment in God’s design. Biblical examples and stories illustrate avoiding conditional striving and embracing restful stewardship.

A clear definition of biblical purpose as an overarching goal that brings direction and meaning. Ways to tell your purpose from talents, joys, people groups, and life experiences. How God’s design and delight in our giftedness guide practical ministry direction. Common obstacles to purpose like busyness, mundanity, embarrassment, difficulty, and failure — and how to respond.

They explore how identity shapes action and emotion, and why stable identity matters across roles and relationships. Topics include biblical identity facets, family and communal identity, and balancing sinner, sufferer, and saint. Illustrations range from Narnia characters to Moses at the burning bush, with practical angles on humility, service, and being salt and light in the world.

A clear look at whether self-esteem is a goal or a method. A breakdown of five aims people actually pursue: identity, purpose, confidence, security, and wisdom. A critique of cultural promises about self-love and what secular research really shows. A preview of biblical alternatives for finding stability and meaning in Christ.