Things Above

James Bryan Smith has a Things Above Conversation with author Dr. Kelly Flanagan. In this episode, James discusses Kelly’s book “The Road Less Triggered.” Learn more about Kelly’s book and order it here! Interested in donating to the Things Above Podcast? Donate here! Related Episodes: 1. The Gospel Is Bigger 2. God Is Joyous 3. God is Looking for You 4. Conversation with AJ Swoboda and Nijay Gupta 5. Love Has You The post Conversation with Dr. Kelly Flanagan appeared first on Apprentice Institute.

A wide-ranging defense of a fuller gospel that includes atonement, kingship, sonship, and apprenticeship to Jesus. Conversation on whether discipleship is central or merely a fruit of faith. Warnings about a reduced gospel that offers benefits without following Jesus. Reflections on theology, spiritual formation, and how the proclaimed kingdom shapes Christian life.

Explore the idea that God is the most joyous being in the universe. Delve into how our longing for divine intimacy reveals a joyful Creator. Discover the biblical concept of God rejoicing over His people and the importance of having correct beliefs about God. Hear personal stories that showcase how a joyful authority can foster safety. Learn three compelling reasons for God's joy, and understand how Christ's nature embodies this joy. Lastly, reflect on the presence of joy even amidst suffering.

This Christmas-themed discussion invites listeners to ponder how God seeks a relationship with them through the Holy Spirit. James shares a nostalgic snow-plowing story that illustrates the feeling of being wanted. He delves into the profound moment of the Word becoming flesh, reflecting on how God's smile represents grace and an invitation to intimacy. The exploration of St. Augustine's insights adds depth to the conversation, highlighting the theme of rebirth and divine connection.

AJ Swoboda, a theologian and author, and Nijay Gupta, a New Testament scholar, engage in a thought-provoking discussion about their book, 'Slow Theology.' They explore the need for a Sabbath-paced approach to faith, addressing cultural challenges and spiritual deconstruction. Their insights cover building resilience through struggle, the importance of relational knowing over mere information, and the dangers of instant answers in our digital age. Together, they offer transformative practices for those seeking authentic spiritual growth.

Discover how five influential authors reshaped James Bryan Smith's spiritual journey. He shares his insights on overcoming personal shame and perfectionism, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion. Learn about the concept of surrendering to divine love and exploring inner emotions through the lens of leading thinkers. Each author contributes a unique perspective on healing and vulnerability, reminding us that love ultimately holds us.

Explore the depths of faith as James Bryan Smith discusses embracing life's highs and lows through the lens of Gospel healing stories. He shares the touching tale of a woman who bravely reached out to Jesus, emphasizing that true faith is about courage, not merit. The conversation introduces the DENY acronym—Depend, Embrace, Nurture, Yield—contrasting self-reliance with the power of surrendering to God. Ultimately, discover how Christ meets us in our struggles and triumphs, inviting us to find solace in His wounds.

James Bryan Smith has a Things Above Conversation with Aundi Kolber about her book, “Try Softer: A Fresh Approach to Move Us out of Anxiety, Stress, and Survival Mode–and into a Life of Connection and Joy.” Aundi Kolber believes that we don’t have to white-knuckle our way through life. In her debut book, Try Softer, she’ll show us how God specifically designed our bodies and minds to work together to process our stories and work through obstacles. Through the latest psychology, practical clinical exercises, and her own personal story, Aundi equips and empowers us to connect us to our truest self and truly live. This is the “try softer” life. In Try Softer, you’ll learn how to: Know and set emotional and relational boundaries Make sense of the difficult experiences you’ve had Identify your attachment style―and how that affects your relationships today Move through emotions rather than get stuck by them Grow in self-compassion and talk back to your inner critic Trying softer is sacred work. And while it won’t be perfect or easy, it will be worth it. Because this is what we were made for: a living, breathing, moving, feeling, connected, beautifully incarnational life. Interested in donating to the Things Above Podcast? Donate here! Learn more about the Christian Spiritual Formation degree Scholarship at Friends University! Related Episodes: 1. Integrate Like Jesus 2. Your Project 3. Live By The Spirit 4. Conversation with Michael Stewart Robb 5. False Frames The post Conversation with Aundi Kolber appeared first on Apprentice Institute.

Explore the profound integration of Christian identity in everyday life. The discussion highlights how Jesus engaged in family, work, play, and entertainment, showcasing their importance in spiritual practice. Smith emphasizes the significance of family as a kingdom practice and the value of work in creating relationships. He also advocates for viewing play as grace and offers practical tips for mindful living. The dialogue wraps up with inspirational reminders to embody a holistic approach to faith.

James Bryan Smith’s thought from above this week is “pay attention to your project.” In this episode, James addresses some big questions about the project of our life and why it’s so important we understand what a spiritually fulfilling life looks like. Interested in donating to the Things Above Podcast? Donate here! Learn more about the Christian Spiritual Formation degree Scholarship at Friends University! Related Episodes: 1. Live By The Spirit 2. Conversation with Michael Stewart Robb 3. False Frames 4. Everything Okay Forever 5. Awe Filled Appreciation The post Your Project appeared first on Apprentice Institute.