The Group Answers Podcast is a weekly show designed to resource, train, and encourage small group leaders. Each episode considers current trends and resources as well as timeless truths and methods of discipleship. It is hosted by Brian Daniel.
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Lifeway Podcast Network
The Kids Ministry Calling Podcast is designed to inspire and equip kids ministry leaders in every season of their journey! Join us as we dive into heartfelt discussions, practical tips, and uplifting stories that remind you of the incredible calling God has placed on your life. Tune in to be reminded of your purpose, share in the joys and struggles of ministry, and find renewed strength in your calling. Together, we can remember to have joy in our calling!
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The Marked Podcast is for women marked by a love for God, His Word and His people. Hosts, Angie Elkins and Alicia Wong, join with guests from all walks of life to engage in thoughtful conversations on theology, spiritual formation, practical ministry, and more. Each episode invites you to grow in grace and truth through engaging stories, biblical insight, and honest reflections. Whether you're leading in ministry or simply hungry to grow, you’ll find encouragement and practical tools for whe ...
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Each week, join the Explore the Bible team for session-by-session leader training. At home or on the go, the convenient audio format will provide critical insights to help you lead Bible study.
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Ask the Pastor with J.D. Greear is a weekly podcast that answers tough questions and tackles relevant issues in a way that is filled with grace, understanding, and wisdom from God’s Word. Hosted by Matt Love.
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5 Leadership Questions Podcast on Church Leadership with Todd Adkins and Dan Iten
Lifeway Leadership Podcast Network
Todd Adkins and Dan Iten ask five leadership questions to different guests, on a specific topic, or on a particular book.
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Ministry Leaders and their families live in a “glass house”—an environment where they are left vulnerable to the stress of ministry, the criticism of others, and feel the spotlight on their personal weaknesses. Lifeway's "The Glass House" is a space where ministry leaders will shed light on the challenges they often don't feel permission to talk about. Listeners who work in the trenches of church life will feel seen and gain tools to navigate ministry and life. Those who live outside this "g ...
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How do you build groups? Are you building or maintaining your small groups ministry? We seek to start, spark, and spur on thought trails you otherwise wouldn't have to get you asking questions you normally wouldn't because you get to hear to some of the best church leaders in Groups ministry across the country. Tune in to learn and explore areas of Groups ministry you've never considered before or need reminders.
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Exploring the Heart of the Parables Stories Jesus Told is a six week mini-series with teaching from author Daniel Fusco. Everyone loves a good story. Whether it’s a novel, film, or song, we are products of the narratives that have formed us—for good or bad. If you need fresh inspiration or are stuck living under the weight of a story you can’t shake off, consider this study of the parables of Jesus. Through six sessions, you’ll hear directly from Jesus through the Word. His parables not only ...
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5 Essential Traits of a Leader with Donna Gaines
51:39
51:39
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51:39Donna Gaines joins us to share her wisdom and what she believes are the five essential traits of a leader. She talks about leading with humility, faithfulness, and a heart fully surrendered to Jesus. Donna also offers practical wisdom on resisting comparison, choosing not to be offended, and becoming women who speak life and build others up. She cl…
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Session 3 (Dec. 21) Explore the Bible Adults
21:24
21:24
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21:24Bob Bunn and Amber Vaden look at session 3 (Matt. 2:1-12) in the Winter 2025-26 Explore the Bible study of Matthew 1-13.By Lifeway Podcast Network
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47. Building a Ministry of Belonging: Special Needs Ministry wtih Carly Ellis and Ellie Axford
45:09
45:09
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45:09What does it look like for a church to become a place where every individual—regardless of ability—belongs, is valued, and is discipled? In this inspiring episode, we take a deep dive into the heart behind Embrace Ministry at Brentwood Baptist Church and the incredible work happening through the Rowan Glenn Center, a space created to love and serve…
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328. One Plus One Plus One: Austin Gentry on Relational Discipleship and Church Engagement
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35:14
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35:14How can churches create a discipleship strategy that balances worship, study, and service? In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Austin Gentry, Discipleship Pastor at Second Baptist Houston, to explore the church’s innovative approach to discipleship called the “one plus one plus one” strategy: one hour of worship, one hour …
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Is the Deliberate Pursuit of Ethnic Unity the Same As DEI?
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10:58In another special episode, Pastor J.D. addresses the question: “Is the Deliberate Pursuit of Ethnic Unity the Same As DEI?” Key Takeaways: There is an unbiblical DEI that really is about quota and virtue signaling. Hiring practices should consider the experience of candidates over age 50. Ageism can be a concern when hiring for specific demographi…
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Connections, Community, and Cliques with Marian Jordan Ellis
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48:05In this episode, we sit down with Marian Jordan Ellis to talk about the importance of community in women’s ministry. Marian shares why leaders can’t thrive in isolation, how discipleship strengthens the church, and the practices that help women connect beyond surface level. She also reflects on what it looks like to lead while still needing genuine…
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Session 2 (Dec. 14) Explore the Bible Adults
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16:43
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16:43Dwayne McCrary and Amber Vaden look at session 2 (Matt. 4:12-25) in the Winter 2025-26 Explore the Bible study of Matthew 1-13.By Lifeway Podcast Network
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We're so grateful for each and every one of you! Happy Thanksgiving! SHOW LINKS: Follow Jana Magruder on Instagram Connect with Lifeway Kids Leave us a voice message here with any questions or feedback!
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327. Deepening Faith and Discipleship Through Biblical Theology with Caroline Saunders
34:09
34:09
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34:09How can biblical theology transform your understanding of Scripture and deepen your discipleship? In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Caroline Saunders to explore the Story and Soul Retreat, a transformative experience designed to nurture spiritual growth and theological understanding. Caroline shares her personal journey …
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Cultivating a Culture of Prayer with Leighann McCoy
44:21
44:21
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44:21Angie and Alicia sit down with author and prayer leader Leighann McCoy to talk about what it really looks like to weave prayer into your life and ministry. Leighann has walked with the Lord through both joys and deep challenges, and she brings a warm, grounded perspective that helps make prayer feel accessible. If you’ve ever struggled to know wher…
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Session 1 (Dec. 7) Explore the Bible Adults
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20:40Mike Livingstone and Amber Vaden look at session 1 (Matt. 3:13–4:11) in the Winter 2025-26 Explore the Bible study of Matthew 1-13.By Lifeway Podcast Network
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Introduction (Matthew 1-13) Explore the Bible Adults
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3:43Amber Vaden gives some background on the gospel of Matthew as we begin the Winter 2025-26 Explore the Bible study.By Lifeway Podcast Network
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45. Why Preteen Ministry Matters: Strategies for Ministry, Transitions, and Identity with Keiron Miles and Melissa Whitworth
45:26
45:26
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45:26If there’s one age group that keeps leaders on their toes, it’s preteens. In this honest and insightful episode, Melissa and Kieron dive into the messy, complicated, and often intimidating world of preteen ministry, a season filled with different learning styles, big questions, and big emotions. They unpack why this age group matters so deeply and …
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326. Leading Gen Z: Dr. Allen Yeh on Technology, Theology, and Discipleship in a Changing World
34:22
34:22
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34:22How do we disciple a generation shaped by technology, individualism, and global perspectives? In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Dr. Allen Yeh to explore the unique challenges and opportunities of leading Gen Z. Dr. Ye shares insights on how technology, parenting, and cultural shifts influence this generation, and how lea…
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Is “Voting Blue” the First Sign of Losing Faith?
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11:25In another special episode, Pastor J.D. addresses the question: “Is ‘Voting Blue’ the First Sign of Losing Faith?” The conversation explores a question Pastor J.D. was asked recently about whether “voting blue” is a harbinger of losing your faith. Key Takeaways: Silence on moral issues can lead to distrust. The character of leaders matters to faith…
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Discipling the Next Generation with Amy-Jo Girardier
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45:28Today our conversation is with Amy-Jo Girardier to talk about discipling Gen Z and Gen Alpha in a rapidly changing world. Amy-Jo brings both encouragement and practical wisdom as she shares what she’s seeing in young women today and how the church can step toward them with intentionality, truth, and hope. LINKS: "What I Wish You Knew About My Gener…
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Session 13 (Nov. 30) Explore the Bible Adults
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14:51Tim Pollard and Amber Vaden look at session 13 (Deut. 33:1-5,26-29) in the Fall 2025 Explore the Bible study of the books of Numbers and Deuteronomy.By Lifeway Podcast Network
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44. Teaching Through the Tough Stuff: Tracy McElhattan on Early Childhood, Inclusion, and Faithful Discipleship
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37:52Let’s be honest—talking about the hard stuff with little ones isn’t easy. In this powerful episode, Tracy McElhattan opens up about the real challenges of tackling tough topics in early childhood ministry. From behavioral struggles and special needs to the lingering impact of COVID-19, Tracy shares how parents, teachers, and ministry leaders can st…
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325. Leading with Awareness: Nicole Zasowski on Emotional Health, Trauma, and Joy in Leadership
35:58
35:58
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35:58How does your own emotional health shape the way you lead? In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Nicole Zasowski, LifeWay author and practicing counselor, to explore the vital connection between self-awareness, trauma, and leadership. Nicole shares insights on how leaders’ personal pain, emotional responses, and healing jour…
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Living on Mission Locally and Globally with Kelly King and Tina Boesch
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44:15
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44:15Kelly King and Tina Boesch share how incorporating missions—both locally and globally—can help women live out their faith. From practical ways to serve through prayer and giving, to powerful stories of God’s provision around the world, this episode reminds us that missions isn’t just one part of ministry—it’s part of our spiritual DNA. LINKS Minist…
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Session 12 (Nov. 23) Explore the Bible Adults
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18:24Bob Bunn and Amber Vaden look at session 12 (Deut. 30:11-20) in the Fall 2025 Explore the Bible study of the books of Numbers and Deuteronomy.By Lifeway Podcast Network
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43. Building Value-Driven Teams in Kids Ministry with Brett Buckland
39:11
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39:11What can a chicken sandwich teach us about leadership in ministry? In this insightful and energizing episode, Brett Buckland joins the conversation to share how lessons from his time at Chick-fil-A have shaped the way he leads in ministry and life. Brett dives into the power of value-driven leadership, the importance of being present with your team…
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324. Why Church Membership Matters: Matt Capps & Josh Wredberg on Discipleship, Community, and Engagement
33:38
33:38
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33:38Is church membership still relevant in today’s individualistic culture? In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with Matt Capps and Josh Wredberg to explore the critical role of church membership in fostering authentic community, discipleship, and engagement within the local church. As churches navigate a culture marked by consumer…
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Jen Wilkin on Women in Ministry and Leadership
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51:34What does leadership look like for women in ministry today? Hosts Angie Elkins and Alicia Wong talk with Jen Wilkin about discipleship, theology, and what it means for men and women to serve alongside each other in the family of God. Jen shares insight on how growing in biblical literacy shapes our leadership, how to navigate ministry opportunities…
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Session 11 (Nov. 16) Explore the Bible Adults
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12:57Tim Pollard and Amber Vaden look at session 11 (Deut. 28:1-6,15-19) in the Fall 2025 Explore the Bible study of the books of Numbers and Deuteronomy.By Lifeway Podcast Network
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42. Understanding Trauma in Kids Ministry: Practical Strategies for Healing and Hope with Kim Botto
32:52
32:52
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32:52What if a child’s behavior on Sunday isn’t misbehavior, but a message? In this powerful and practical episode of Kids Ministry Calling, Kim Botto shares wisdom from her decades in children’s ministry, helping leaders understand how trauma impacts kids’ emotions, behavior, and connection. She unpacks what it means for the church to become trauma-inf…
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323. The Man You’re Meant to Be: Masculinity, Discipleship, and Men’s Ministry with John Simons
36:42
36:42
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36:42What does it really mean to be a man in today’s culture? In this episode of Group Answers, Brian Daniel sits down with John Simons, author of The Man You’re Meant to Be, to explore masculinity, discipleship, and practical strategies for men’s ministry. Drawing from his book and years of ministry experience, John shares insights on the challenges me…
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In this episode, Pastor J.D. concludes our mini-series about his latest book, Everyday Revolutionary, by asking the question: “WHY Is Gen Z Returning to the Church?” This conversation features Wes Smith, College Pastor at The Summit Church. Much has been said about how Gen Z is returning to the church… but why is that happening? We explore the reas…
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Fostering Community in Women's Ministry with Emily Dean
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47:54In this episode, we dive into the heart of community in women’s ministry with Emily Dean. From the biblical foundation of fellowship to practical ways to create connections, we explore why community is essential, how vulnerability fosters deeper relationships, and creative strategies to help women engage meaningfully in your ministry. Whether it’s …
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Session 10 (Nov. 9) Explore the Bible Adults
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20:15Bob Bunn and Amber Vaden look at session 10 (Deut. 12:1-11,29-32) in the Fall 2025 Explore the Bible study of the books of Numbers and Deuteronomy.By Lifeway Podcast Network
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41. Leading With Heart: Emotional Intelligence, Mentorship, and Ministry with Dr. Michelle Hicks
36:24
36:24
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36:24What if one of the most overlooked leadership skills could transform the way you serve kids, partner with parents, and lead volunteers? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Michelle Hicks to talk about the power of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) in ministry, and why it may be the secret ingredient to healthy leadership that lasts. Dr. Hicks breaks do…
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Gary Vaughan serves as the Executive Pastor of Adult Discipleship at Harvest Church in Carmel, IN, where he and his family have served for the past 9 years. From 1996-2015, Gary served full-time in Southeastern Virginia at Nansemond River Baptist Church, for 12 years in Student Ministry and 7 years as the Pastor of Groups, Discipleship, and Family …
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322. More Than Enough: Vulnerability, Faith, and Leading Groups with Christine Hoover
36:32
36:32
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36:32How do we lead small groups that embrace real life—the joys, the struggles, and everything in between? In this episode of The Group Answers Show, Brian Daniel sits down with Christine Hoover, author of the new Bible study More Than Enough, centered on 2 Corinthians. Christine opens up about her journey writing this study while navigating personal t…
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Are Christians Called to the Culture War?
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18:56
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18:56In this episode, Pastor J.D. discusses a question many of us are asking ourselves right now, “Are Christians Called to the Culture War?” As part of a short series surrounding Pastor J.D.’s new book Everyday Revolutionary, the conversation explains that while believers must be bold in truth, faithfulness to Jesus goes beyond cultural confrontation—i…
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Making Evangelism Part of Your Everyday with Catherine Renfro
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52:02Catherine Renfro, national director of women’s evangelism at the North American Mission Board, shares how evangelism became a passion in her life and reminds us that sharing our faith doesn’t have to be complicated: it’s one person sharing good news with another. We discuss why evangelism and discipleship go hand in hand, how to overcome fear when …
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Session 9 (Nov. 2) Explore the Bible Adults
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22:01Gia Thornburg, Dwayne McCrary, and Amber Vaden look at session 9 (Deut. 6:1-9,20-25) in the Fall 2025 Explore the Bible study of the books of Numbers and Deuteronomy.By Lifeway Podcast Network
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40. Creating a Culture of Safety in Kids Ministry with Kris Buckman
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41:50We’ve all heard the phrase “stranger danger”, but the sobering truth is that nearly 90% of child abuse cases involve someone the child already knows and trusts. As ministry leaders, it’s our sacred responsibility to ensure that the church is a safe place for every child who walks through the doors. In this episode of Kids Ministry Calling, host Jan…
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321. Discipleship in a Changing Culture: How Church Leaders Can Reach Cultural Christians with Pastor Dean Inserra
39:36
39:36
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39:36What does it take to make disciples in a world shaped by therapy culture, shifting values, and cultural Christianity? In this episode of Group Answers Show, host Brian Daniel welcomes back Pastor Dean Inserra from City Church in Tallahassee, Florida, for a timely and thought-provoking conversation on the evolving landscape of discipleship and evang…
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Should Pastors Be More Political from the Pulpit?
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22:15In this episode, Pastor J.D. discusses a question many church leaders face: Should pastors be more political from the pulpit? As part of a short series surrounding Pastor J.D.’s new book Everyday Revolutionary, the conversation explores how faithfulness to the gospel intersects with public issues, when to speak clearly, and when to show restraint. …
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Kandi Gallaty on Discipleship That Transforms Lives
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51:14Angie and Alicia are joined by Kandi Gallaty, author, pastor’s wife, and passionate disciple-maker at Long Hollow Church. She shares how her own walk with God led her to invest in discipling women. They talk about what discipleship looks like—how to engage with the Bible instead of just reading it, why prayer and Scripture memory are essential disc…
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Session 8 (Oct. 26) Explore the Bible Adults
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16:48Mike Livingstone and Amber Vaden look at session 8 (Deut. 4:1-9,15-20) in the Fall 2025 Explore the Bible study of the books of Numbers and Deuteronomy.By Lifeway Podcast Network
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