
Abundant Life Church Podcast
194 episodes — Page 3 of 4

Between Two Trees
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter talks about the two trees in the garden, the tree of life and the tree of knowledge of good and evil, and how God created boundaries in the garden and how Adam and Eve ignored them.</p>

Let Us Make Man
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter discusses the role that gender played in God creating humanity and how following our natural design allow us to fulfill the purpose God intends for our life.</p>

Building Life Giving Relationships as a Pastor
<p>In this episode, Pastor John Carter and Pastor Chris Folwell discuss feeling lonely as a minister and how to create relationships, not associated with your church, that will benefit you and help you to grow and feel safe, and not feel isolated.</p>

The Truth and The Lie
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter tells us God’s word gives us the option to decide if we need God’s help, His salvation, or if we believe the lie that we don’t need God, we can do it all our selves.</p>

Preparing and Delivering Life Changing Messages
<p>In this insightful podcast episode, Pastor John and co-host Brandi Ginty delve into the critical role of Scripture in Christian faith and pastoral ministry. They discuss the distinction between intellectual belief and heartfelt revelation, emphasizing the need for pastors to articulate faith grounded in biblical truth. Highlighting challenges in contemporary pastoral training and sermon crafting, they offer encouragement for pastors to prioritize a deep understanding of Scripture, equipping both themselves and their congregations to live transformative lives rooted in God's Word. Join them for a thought-provoking discussion on the vital importance of the Bible in today's ministry landscape.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Highlights:</p><p>Understanding Belief: Genuine faith is not merely intellectual knowledge but a heart revelation in God, emphasizing the importance of articulating faith with both conviction and biblical grounding.</p><p><br></p><p>The Role of Scripture: The Bible is emphasized as the sole reliable source of information about Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and other foundational aspects of faith, with its transformative power highlighted when internalized and applied.</p><p><br></p><p>Challenges in Pastoral Training: Concerns are raised about the trend in some pastoral training institutions where biblical education takes a back seat to practical ministry skills, urging pastors to prioritize a deep understanding of Scripture in their ministry.</p><p><br></p><p>Crafting Faithful Messages: Discussion centers on the shift in sermon content towards topical messages that often avoid challenging or confrontational scriptures, encouraging pastors to craft messages that faithfully teach the whole counsel of God.</p><p><br></p><p>Additional Resources:</p><p><a href="https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/preaching-in-todays-culture" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/preaching-in-todays-culture</a></p>

Choosing the Way of Life
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter talks about God’s plan for His creation. He has a plan and a way that leads to life and not destruction and condemnation.</p>

What If I am a Pastor, But I'm Not the Senior Pastor?
<p>Join Pastor Pascale and Pastor John as they delve into the intricacies of communication dynamics within ministry teams. Exploring the roles of shepherds and sheep, they highlight the importance of clear communication, mutual understanding, and vulnerability in fostering supportive relationships. From interpreting communication cues to adapting to different roles, this insightful discussion offers valuable insights for navigating the complexities of pastoral leadership.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Highlights:</p><p>Understanding Communication Dynamics: Pastor Pascal emphasizes the importance of accurately interpreting communication cues within ministry teams, highlighting how mutual understanding and awareness of each other's communication styles facilitate effective collaboration.</p><p><br></p><p>Embracing Shepherd-Sheep Relationships: Pastor John highlights the dual roles of shepherding and being a sheep in ministry, emphasizing that supportive ministers should prioritize viewing their senior pastor as their shepherd before their employer or supervisor.</p><p><br></p><p>Utilizing Clear Communication: Pastor Pascal underscores the significance of clear communication in expressing needs within ministry relationships, advocating for the use of specific language to enable pastors to understand and respond appropriately to the spiritual and pastoral needs of their team members.</p><p><br></p><p>Adapting to Different Roles: Pastor John discusses the concept of "switching hats" within ministry relationships, explaining how identifying and communicating specific roles fosters deeper connections and understanding between pastors and supportive ministers.</p><p><br></p><p>Interpreting Communication Cues: Pastor Pascal and Pastor John explore the nuances of interpreting communication cues within ministry relationships, highlighting the importance of clarity and understanding in navigating communication dynamics effectively.</p><p><br></p><p>Embracing Vulnerability and Mutual Support: Pastor Pascal and Pastor John discuss the significance of vulnerability and mutual support within pastoral leadership, emphasizing the creation of safe spaces for open communication to foster transparent and supportive relationships within ministry teams.</p><p><br></p><p>Additional Resources:</p><p><a href="https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/what-if-i-am-a-pastor-but-im-not-the-senior-pastor" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/what-if-i-am-a-pastor-but-im-not-the-senior-pastor</a></p>

The Name of Jesus
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter talks about the name of Jesus being more excellent than any other name. It is the name above all names, and we have been given power and authority to use the name of Jesus, and when we call on His name, we’re calling on God.</p>

The Takeaway: Waiting Through the Process of Change
<p>In this episode, Dr. Brandi Ginty and Pastor Pascale Williams discuss that God is doing things you should not circumvent or cut short while He's in the process of building the character of your heart.</p>

It's OK not to be OK
<p>Join Pastor Lee and Pastor John in this insightful podcast episode as they delve into the often overlooked topic of mental health in ministry. Through personal anecdotes and candid conversations, they shed light on the stigma surrounding mental health challenges among pastors and ministry leaders. From discussing the importance of vulnerability and seeking support to integrating faith with mental health practices, Pastor Lee and Pastor John provide valuable insights and practical advice for pastors navigating the complexities of their mental and emotional well-being. Tune in to discover how prioritizing mental health can lead to greater resilience, stronger relationships, and a more fulfilling ministry journey.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Highlights:</p><p>Stigma in Ministry: Pastor Lee and Pastor John discuss the stigma surrounding mental health in ministry, emphasizing the need for openness and support.</p><p><br></p><p>Vulnerability and Support: They highlight the importance of vulnerability and seeking support in addressing mental health challenges, encouraging pastors to prioritize self-care.</p><p><br></p><p>Community and Relationships: Pastor Lee and Pastor John stress the significance of building supportive relationships beyond one's relationship with God, drawing parallels to biblical examples.</p><p><br></p><p>Integrating Faith and Mental Health: They advocate for integrating faith with mental health support, approaching the journey with faith rather than fear.</p><p><br></p><p>Additional Resources:</p><p><a href="https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/its-ok-not-to-be-ok" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/its-ok-not-to-be-ok</a></p>

Character in the Crucible: God’s Refining Process
<p>In this message, Pastor Jordan Carter talks about why God wants to build the character of your heart before you walk in the manifestation of your calling.</p>

The Takeaway: Humility and Confidence
<p>In this episode, Dr. Brandi Ginty and Pastor Jordan Carter discuss how women are painted as passive, but in all reality, they are persistent, assertive, and strong in getting what they want from God and at the same time humbled and honored by who God is.</p>

Explaining the Importance of Mental Health
<p>Join Pastor John and Dr. Kelly in a thought-provoking conversation on mindset dynamics and their profound influence on human behavior. Delving into the roles of the child, teen, and adult mindsets, they offer practical insights for self-awareness and emotional regulation. Pastoral leaders will find valuable strategies for supporting others while maintaining their own mental well-being. Dive into this insightful discussion to unlock the power of mindsets for personal growth and healing.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Highlights:</p><p>Understanding Mindset Dynamics: Explore the child, teen, and adult mindsets and how they influence behavior, emotions, and decision-making.</p><p><br></p><p>Manifestation of Mindsets: Learn how these mindsets manifest in various situations, particularly in response to stress and vulnerability.</p><p><br></p><p>Insights into Emotional Defense: Discover how anger and fear serve as defense mechanisms, often masking deeper emotions like sadness or shame.</p><p><br></p><p>Addiction as Coping Mechanism: Understand how addictions develop as coping mechanisms to manage overwhelming emotions and stress.</p><p><br></p><p>The Development of Adult Mindset: Recognize that the adult mindset, characterized by self-awareness and emotional regulation, may not fully develop until later in life.</p><p><br></p><p>Practical Strategies: Gain practical strategies for developing awareness, self-compassion, validation, and integration of the different mindsets.</p><p><br></p><p>Additional Resources:</p><p><a href="https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/explaining-the-importance-of-mental-health" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/explaining-the-importance-of-mental-health</a></p>

Keys to Becoming a Great Woman
<p>In this Mother’s Day message, Pastor Pascale Williams talks about what the characteristics of a great woman looks like.</p>

What About Israel? | Shepherds Network Podcast
<p>In this episode, Pastor John Carter and Pastor Lee Wilson delve into the current events unfolding in Israel and the significance of understanding prophetic scriptures concerning the nation. They explore the importance of praying for Israel and provide insights into interpreting biblical prophecies in relation to contemporary developments. Pastors are encouraged to prioritize blessing Israel, combatting hatred, exercising political caution, and fulfilling their pastoral responsibility through prayer and education. The emphasis is on promoting a balanced, compassionate, and prayerful approach that aligns with biblical principles and fosters spiritual growth and understanding among congregants.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Highlights:</p><p>Blessing Israel: Pastor John emphasizes the biblical mandate to bless Israel and avoid speaking negatively about the Jewish people.</p><p><br></p><p>Combatting Hatred: Identifying contemporary anti-Semitic sentiments as demonic in origin and emphasizing the need for Christians to reject hatred and pray for the salvation and well-being of both Jews and Arabs.</p><p><br></p><p>Political Caution: Encouraging pastors to refrain from overly politicizing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and to focus instead on prayer, compassion, and trust in God's sovereign plan.</p><p><br></p><p>Pastoral Responsibility: Highlighting the importance of pastors addressing Israel-related topics through corporate prayer and occasional teaching, while providing resources for deeper study and understanding.</p><p><br></p><p>Additional Resources:</p><p><a href="https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/what-about-israel-episode-2-season-two" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/what-about-israel-episode-2-season-two</a></p><p><br></p>

Experiencing Forgiveness
<p>In this message, Dr. David Ireland talks about what it means to experience God’s forgiveness, and how to receive it.</p>

The Takeaway: The Name of Jesus Has Power
<p>In this episode, Dr. Brandi Ginty and Barb Knight discuss that using the name of Jesus is our right as a Christian. It gives us privileges, carries authority and power and gives us access when we come before the throne of God.</p>

Form and Flow | Shepherds Network Podcast
<p>This podcast episode delves into the dynamic interplay between practicality and spirituality in ministry leadership. Pastor John Carter and Pastor Josh Finley engage in a rich dialogue, drawing parallels from biblical narratives and personal experiences to explore how leaders can effectively balance structure and spontaneity in church ministry. They discuss the importance of following the leading of the Holy Spirit, the necessity of pruning for greater fruitfulness, and the significance of embracing diverse personalities in ministry. Throughout the conversation, they challenge leaders to teach the whole counsel of Scripture and to trust the Holy Spirit's guidance in navigating the complexities of modern church leadership.</p><p><br></p><p>Key Highlights:</p><p>Following the Presence: Pastor Josh Finley emphasizes the importance of obeying the leading of the Holy Spirit in ministry, drawing parallels to the Israelites' obedience to the cloud in the wilderness. He underscores that practical aspects of ministry, such as division of labor and meticulous planning, serve the overarching goal of following God's presence.</p><p><br></p><p>Pruning for Greater Fruitfulness: Pastor John discusses the necessity of pruning in ministry, advising not only to prune when things fail, but also when they are fruitful but potentially distracting from the main focus. He shares examples of post-COVID adaptations in their church, highlighting the importance of revival while maintaining balance and sustainability.</p><p><br></p><p>Understanding and Embracing Personalities in Ministry: Pastor Josh Finley and Pastor John Carter reflect on how God works through individuals with diverse personalities and temperaments, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and embracing one's unique wiring in ministry. They highlight that God can work through various leadership styles and giftings, whether it's spontaneity or meticulous planning, guided by the Holy Spirit.</p><p><br></p><p>Challenging Leaders to Teach the Whole Counsel of Scripture: Pastor Josh Finley challenges leaders to examine if there are areas of Scripture they may be avoiding due to personal discomfort or inadequacy, urging them to trust the Holy Spirit's leading in teaching the whole counsel of God's Word. He emphasizes the importance of sowing the Word into every area of ministry and trusting God to bring forth fruitfulness.</p><p><br></p><p>Additional Resources: </p><p><a href="https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/seasontwoformandflow" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://theshepherdsnetwork.com/episodes/seasontwoformandflow</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

Praying in the Name of Jesus
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter talks about the name of Jesus, and being authorized to use the name of Jesus in our prayers against Satan and his demons.</p>

The Courage to Seize the Opportunity Part One: Resolving Your Past
<p>In this message, Dr. A. R. Bernard talks about life being both a threat and a promise, and God’s desire is for us to take hold of courage to seize the opportunity He has for us.</p>

The Courage to Seize the Opportunity Part Two: The Tools You Need to Live Your Purpose
<p>In this message, Dr. A. R. Bernard talks about life being both a threat and a promise, and God’s desire is for us to take hold of courage to seize the opportunity He has for us.</p>

The Takeaway: You Don't Have to be Bullied
<p>In this episode, Brandi Ginty and Natisha Crossman discuss that it's not okay to constantly be beaten down by the words of your enemy. You have an advocate that will go to bat for you, and will come between you and the enemy when you don't know what to say or do.</p>

Answering Your Accuser
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter talks about how Satan is our accuser and Jesus is our advocate, and that our faith in Jesus will extinguish the voice of our accuser.</p>

4 Things You Have to Know About the Blood of Jesus

Four Facts About the Blood of Jesus
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter talks about how the blood of Jesus is a covering that protects, corrects, and preserves us, and by boldly confessing the blood of Jesus, will activate its power.</p>

Hope That Endures
<p>Do you have hope but don't know how to ground your hope that sustains? In this episode, Brandi Ginty and Pastor Mel Chapman discuss how to find scripture on hope and how to endure and stand on the Word during the trials you are facing.</p>

Finding Hope in Jesus
<p>In this message, Pastor Jordan Carter talks about living hope describes something that is active, alive and dynamic and that we have a promise of Jesus being our living hope.</p>

12 Benefits of the Blood of Jesus | Good Friday
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter tells us when Jesus ascended to heaven, He took His sacrificial blood that paid the price for our sins and placed it on the Holy Alter, and now we have the benefits of His blood.</p>

Why We Praise
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter tells us that we were created and designed for praise and worship. It is the heritage of the Christian Church.</p>

The Takeaway: The Power of the Holy Spirit
<p>In this episode, Brandi Ginty and Pastor Ken Chapman talk about when we receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit, with the evidence of speaking in tongues and we start to see the power flow, it enhances our time here, and it adds an effectiveness to our Christian Life.</p>

Receiving & Releasing The Power of the Holy Spirit
<p>In this message, Pastor Pascale Williams teaches on how to receive and release the power of speaking in other tongues.</p>

The Takeaway: The Role of the Holy Spirit
<p>In this episode, Addison Spears and Pastor Pascale Williams discuss the role of the Holy Spirit, how He gives us knowledge and understanding of things. He convicts us with the inner knowing of what's right and wrong that will help us to make wise decisions from that knowledge.</p>

The Purpose of the Holy Spirit
<p>In this message, Pastor Ken Chapman talks about the inner conviction of the Holy Spirit paired with outward witness creates in us holiness.</p>

The Person of the Holy Spirit
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter gives us biblical insight on who the Holy Spirit is in us.</p>

The Takeaway: Allowing the Holy Spirit Control of Your Life
<p>In this episode, Brandi Ginty and Addison Spears discuss that you can invite the Holy Spirit in, but you need to participate with him and allow him to have some ownership of the space and limitless control.</p>

Inviting the Holy Spirit in Your Marriage & Relationships
<p>In this message, Pastor Lee Wilson teaches that we shouldn’t just invite the Holy Spirit to church, we should invite him into every situation in our lives and our relationships.</p>

The Takeaway: The Holy Spirit is Your Partner
<p>In this episode, Brandi Ginty and Ryann Crofoot discuss how the Holy Spirit is in every area of your life and wants to partner with you, to help you, to guide you, to do life with you.</p>

Having a Personal Relationship with the Holy Spirit
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter tells us that when we allow the Holy Spirit to really have a deep work in our lives, it’s not for our benefit. It’s to equip us and prepare us for our purpose and mission in life.</p>

The Takeaway: Recap of Dwell Conference
<p>In this episode, Brandi Ginty and Jordan Vanboden recap the Dwell Conference and how the speakers were spiritually in sync with their messages without talking to each other.</p>

The Household of God
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter teaches that when we are built together, we grow and mature and become members of the household of God and then we become a dwelling place for God.</p>

The Takeaway: How to Listen to Your Spirit
<p>In this episode, Pastor Ken Chapman and Pastor Gina Ogden discuss how you can know if your spirit is talking to you and not your mind.</p>

How to Live in Your Body
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter teaches us that it is not the struggle of two natures inside of us, it is the struggle between our new spiritual nature and the body we live in. You have to learn how to live inside of your body as a new spirit being.</p>

The Takeaway: What Discipleship Looks Like

The Reborn Spirit of the Believer
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter reminds us that when we mess up in our soul and body, it does not touch or harm our new spirit, that our new nature is preserve and holy because God Himself saved us and keeps us.</p>

The Takeaway: The Power to Live Right
<p> In this episode of the Takeaway Podcast, Brandi Ginty and Pastor Ken Chapman discuss the difference between positional and practical righteousness, or the different between being made right and choosing to do right.</p>

Receiving Righteousness
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter tells us that righteousness qualifies us to be able to stand before God as a child of God with full assurance of access to come boldly before the Father.</p>

The Takeaway: The Righteous Life
<p>In this episode of takeaway podcast, Brandi Ginty and Pastor Pascale Williams discuss the biblical gift of righteousness, how it changes who we are, and how we live our lives.</p>

The Gift of Righteousness
<p>In this message, Pastor John Carter tells us that we can't perform goods works to earn our righteousness. Righteousness is a gift from God when you are saved and born again.</p>

January 10, 2024 Prophetic Instruction

The Takeaway: Drawing Strength & Clarity From God's Word
<p>In this podcast episode, Addison Spears discusses how we can draw strength & clarity from God's word and his promises.</p>