In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew Johnson, Michael, and Matt Till engage with Dr. Steve Bezner, exploring the implications of Bonhoeffer’s theology for contemporary church leadership. They discuss the importance of maintaining a distinct Christian identity in a politically charged environment, the role of pastors in shepherding their congregations, and the need for … Continue reading "Episode 214: Bonhoeffer the Pastor with Steve Bezner"

In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, Andrew, Matt, and Michael welcome Watson Jones III, an executive pastor in Chicago, to discuss the current climate of shepherding in the city. They explore the challenges faced by the church in light of social issues, the historical context of the church’s role in society, and the shifts … Continue reading "Episode 213: Ministering in Chicago with Watson Jones III"

In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, Andrew, Michael, and Matt engage with Dr. Wes Watkins to explore the dynamics of church movements, the importance of understanding movements in a contemporary context, and the integration of Motus Dei with Missio Dei. They discuss the characteristics of movements, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the … Continue reading "Episode 212: Reactivating the Church as Movement"

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Dr. Ralph Korner discusses the concept of ekklesia, its historical context, and its implications for the modern church. He emphasizes the importance of community, social justice, and the church’s role in society, arguing against a separatist mentality and advocating for active engagement with the world. The conversation explores … Continue reading "Episode 211: Rethinking Ekklesia with Dr. Ralph Korner"

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew, Matt, and Michael engage in a deep conversation with Mark Thiessen Nation about the life and works of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. They explore Bonhoeffer’s stance on pacifism, the influence of Eberhard Bethge, and the misrepresentation of Bonhoeffer in popular media. The discussion delves into the complexities of Bonhoeffer’s … Continue reading "Episode 210: Unpacking Bonhoeffer’s Legacy with Mark Thiessen Nation"

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew, Michael, and Matt discuss the rise of end times predictions, particularly through social media platforms like TikTok. They explore the implications of these predictions, the historical context of prophecy, and the importance of focusing on Jesus’ mission rather than sensationalism. The conversation also touches on the dangers … Continue reading "Episode 209: We’re Still Here"

In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, the hosts discuss the recent tragedy involving Charlie Kirk and the broader implications of gun violence in America. They explore the intersection of faith, politics, and violence, reflecting on the Christian response to such tragedies. The conversation emphasizes the need for love, justice, and a departure from divisive … Continue reading "Episode 208: Christian Response to Tragedy"

In this episode of the Ephesiology podcast, hosts Andrew and Michael welcome back Matt Till as he takes on a new role focused on social justice and community engagement. The conversation explores the importance of integrating social justice into the church’s mission, reflecting on its historical significance within evangelicalism. Matt shares his personal journey and … Continue reading "Episode 207: Welcome Back Matt!"

On this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we mark a milestone of change, transition, and reflection. Michael and Andrew reunite—this time from across international borders—as Andrew shares the exciting news of his move from Houston, Texas to Victoria, British Columbia. Hear the backstory behind his new pastoral role at West Village Church, a Soma-affiliated community passionate about … Continue reading "Episode 206: Where in the World is Andrew?"

On this episode of The 10-Minute Ephesiologist, Dr. Michael T. Cooper dives into the moment when movement gives way to rest—and when productivity in ministry gives rise to the deeper call of theological formation. After four years of relentless church planting in post-communist Romania, with seven churches launched and national leaders in place, Michael and Loré sensed … Continue reading "Episode 205: The 10-Minute Ephesiologist"

In this compelling episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, we continue our Archaeology Meets Missiology series with a deep dive into Tel Dan—one of Israel’s most significant archaeological sites. Dr. Jonathan Greer, archaeologist and biblical scholar, joins Andrew and Michael to discuss what the material record of Tel Dan reveals about ancient Israelite worship, the North-South … Continue reading "Episode 204: Bronze Age Worship with Dr. Jonathan Greer"

What if an ancient inscription could confirm a biblical figure’s existence—or even affirm the earliest Christian belief in Jesus as God? In this powerful of the Ephesiology Podcast, Michael and Andrew welcome field archaeologist Dr. Titus Kennedy to explore the intersections of archaeology and Scripture. From unearthing altars and human remains to discovering a seal … Continue reading "Episode 203: Digging into the Faith with Dr. Titus Kennedy"

After nearly four decades of research and patient anticipation, biblical scholar Dr. Clint Arnold joins the Ephesiology Podcast to reflect on his life’s work in the ancient city of Colossae—a city long buried but rich in theological relevance. In this fascinating episode, Dr. Arnold shares the backstory behind his groundbreaking scholarship on Colossians and Ephesians, … Continue reading "Episode 202: A Look at Colossae and Colossians with Dr. Clinton Arnold"

What happens when ancient roads, buried ruins, and early Christian communities collide with the modern missionary imagination? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, Dr. Mark Wilson—renowned scholar and director of the Asia Minor Research Center—joins Michael and Andrew for a captivating journey where archaeology meets missiology. From walking the same Roman roads as the … Continue reading "Episode 201: The Roman Roads with Dr. Mark Wilson"

Welcome to the 200th episode of the Ephesiology Podcast and our series Christ in Your Context, where we explore why Jesus is good news—right where you are. In this milestone conversation, we’re joined by theologian, pastor, and cultural exegete Dr. David E. Fitch. Together, we unpack the complex cultural moment we inhabit and why presence—not programs—may … Continue reading "Episode 200: Presence Based Witness with David E. Fitch"

On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael are joined by Brad Brisco, missional strategist and leading voice in co-vocational church planting. Brad shares insights from decades of experience mobilizing church planters, and why the growing reality of co-vocational leadership is not just a necessity—but a strategic, theological return to how the early church engaged in mission. From … Continue reading "Episode 199: Covocational Missionary Living with Brad Brisco"

Is AI helping us flourish as humans—or quietly unraveling the very things that make us human in the first place? In this episode of the Ephesiology Podcast, ethicist and cultural commentator Dr. C. Ben Mitchell joins Michael and Andrew for a deeply reflective conversation on artificial intelligence, ethics, embodiment, and what it means to bear God’s … Continue reading "Episode 198: Grappling with Artificial Intelligence with C. Ben Mitchell"

On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael talk with Dr. Danny Hays, Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies at Ouachita Baptist University and expert in Old Testament and archaeology. They explore the fascinating world of early Christian graffiti, focusing particularly on the Ichthus Christogram—an eight-spoked symbol etched into ancient marble as a bold declaration of … Continue reading "Episode 197: Christograms and Christian Graffiti with Dr. Daniel Hays"

On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael talk with Dr. Mark Fairchild, retired professor of Bible and Religion at Huntington University and renowned biblical archaeologist. They explore one of the most fascinating discoveries in early Christian history: the underwater basilica of Nicaea. Together, they unpack the rich spiritual and historical significance of ancient … Continue reading "Episode 196: The Underwater Bascilica with Dr. Mark Fairchild"

On this episode of The Ephesiology Podcast, Andrew and Michael sit down Dr. Emanuel Prinz—researcher, author, practitioner, professor, and soon-to-be PhD in International Theological Education. With stories of rebel leaders laying down their weapons and whole villages turning to Christ, Emanuel invites us into a world where communal conversion, catalytic leadership, and the slow work of … Continue reading "Episode 195: What Actually Starts Movements with Emanuel Prinz"