Become New with John Ortberg

A direct call-out to the harsh, sarcastic voices we all know and the inward mirror they reveal. A look at how outrage, echo chambers, and social media fuel condemning speech. A scriptural spotlight on “unwholesome talk” and why words can rot or restore relationships. A challenge to replace bitterness with kindness and ask before we share: is this me?

Condoleezza Rice, former U.S. Secretary of State and scholar, reflects on faith, leadership, and public life. She discusses how faith shapes responses to deep political division. She shares practical habits like pausing before replying, the role of prayer, family lessons from Birmingham, and the importance of friendship and compromise across lines.

Explores why Jesus had to die by tracing ancient sacrifice practices and Israel’s reshaping of them. Discusses the idea that the real problem is inner brokenness and not merely external forces. Presents the cross as a new power: self-giving love that absorbs evil rather than fighting it. Invites listeners to take up a life shaped by that sacrificial love.

A look at ten sneaky passive-aggressive behaviors that quietly damage relationships, from eye rolls to silent treatment. The conversation contrasts indirect actions with direct, honest engagement and vulnerability. Practical prompts encourage noticing where frustration leaks out and choosing clearer, loving communication instead.

Nancy Ortberg, speaker and writer and the host's wife, shares candid stories about honest feedback and replacing condemnation with connection. She recounts small-group judgment and a workplace case where hidden complaints became open, solution-focused conversation. Short, real-life narratives show how tone, context, and curiosity can turn judgment into trust.

Shamed people… shame people.So what do you do with the shame you carry?In this episode, John Ortberg shows how Jesus faced shame—and refused to let it define him.From rejection and ridicule to the cross itself, Jesus endured it all…but scorned the shame.And that changes everything for us.Because shame says:“You’re not enough.”“You don’t belong.”“You are what went wrong.”But Jesus tells a different story.Today’s invitation is simple:Notice when shame shows upRefuse to let it define youLet Jesus tell your storyBecause you were never meant to live under shame.📚 Today's Resources:Curt Thompson, The Soul of ShameEleanor Stump, Wandering in Darkness🙌 New episodes every weekday.📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time.Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.TEXT US at 855-888-0444EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.comGET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribeGET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/Music Credits:Believe Me by Glass Echoes - MB01UU8HNMQ8GT0Frost on My Window by Coldbrew - MB01IZWASF1DYPO

A reflection on how pressure reveals true character and why small, unexpected moments matter. Conversations about kingdom values that flip common ideas of greatness. A close look at the cross as a test of surrender, forgiveness, and trust. Honest admissions about personal failure and a call to grow without condemning others.

A practical four-step framework for communicating without condemnation is taught using Marshall Rosenberg’s approach. The conversation unpacks how to observe without judging, name feelings, identify needs, and make clear requests. A famous biblical interaction is used to show crossing barriers, listening for deeper thirst, and creating connection before correction.

A look at how accountability turned into public shaming and why that often fails. Stories of online pillorying and the surprising psychological backlash of shame. A different approach is explored: connecting, challenging, and inviting change rather than condemning. A theological angle explains canceling sin without discarding people and why redemption remains possible.

They unpack how common Bible reading habits can fuel judgment and moral superiority. They suggest three tools to give up condemnation: lighten up, bring your shadow, and read everything in the shadow of the cross. They explore the story of Jonah, arguing we should identify with the flawed characters and use humor and humility to disarm self-righteousness.