In this Ask Josh and Jen episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen answer three real questions from listeners—about marijuana use, when children become adults, and how to keep the Sabbath as a family. They start by examining marijuana according to the Bible, explaining why recreational use doesn’t align with Christian sobriety and what Scripture teaches about medical use and self-control. Next, they tackle the question of adulthood—when it begins, how responsibility prepares children for it, and why our culture often delays maturity. Finally, they explore what it means to rest as God intended, offering practical ways to make one day each week look different from the rest. In this episode: Is marijuana use a sin or a wisdom issue? How to talk with kids about drugs and self-control Why responsibility—not age—defines adulthood Practical ways to honor the Sabbath as a family How weekly rest reminds us of our eternal rest in Christ Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc    Culture Proof Podcast: https://podcast.cultureproof.net/    Air-Popped Popcorn Popper: https://amzn.to/3LCzops   White Truffle Salt: https://amzn.to/4p9CUpA Some links are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through them.

In this episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen address two cultural ideas shaping modern homes—child-led parenting and marriage as a capstone—and help listeners think through both from a biblical perspective. They discuss why giving children authority in the home leads to confusion, inconsistency, and spiritual harm, and how Scripture calls parents to lovingly lead with truth and discipline that produces holiness. Then, they turn to the growing trend of delaying marriage as a personal achievement rather than viewing it as a foundation for life. With biblical wisdom and real-life experience, Josh and Jen show why early marriage often leads to stronger families, shared growth, and deeper faith. In this episode: What “child-led” parenting gets wrong about human nature Why biblical discipline is about holiness, not control How the “capstone” view of marriage distorts God’s design Research showing the benefits of early marriage How parents can model God’s order and authority in the home Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc    SchoolHouse Rocked Podcast: https://www.schoolhouserocked.com/episodes    Child Led Parenting: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2025/10/27/were-doing-child-led-parenting   Marriage as a Capstone vs Cornerstone: https://praxiscircle.com/blog/marriage-capstone-event-or-cornerstone-for-life Marry Early and Flourish Together:  https://ifstudies.org/blog/marry-early-and-flourish-together  Is Marrying Later Always Better?: https://nationalmarriageproject.org/2022-state-our-unions  Servant Not Savior by Levi Secord: https://amzn.to/3LLduQK The Flip Side of Feminism by Suzanne Venker: https://amzn.to/49qr0TI How to Build a Better Life by Suzanne Venker: https://amzn.to/43BlXvZ Some links are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through them.

What if your Christmas traditions did more than create memories—what if they pointed your family to Christ? In this episode, Josh and Jen share three simple, timeless traditions that have shaped their family’s Christmas celebrations for more than twenty years. These ideas are meaningful, practical, and work for every stage of family life—from young children to college-age children and even grandchildren. You’ll learn how to make Scripture reading, music, and worship central to the holiday season with traditions that cost little but leave a lasting spiritual impact. Josh and Jen also explain the true meaning of Advent—why the longing for Christ’s coming still speaks to every heart today—and how to celebrate it intentionally. Whether you’re starting new habits or refreshing old ones, this episode will help your family focus on what matters most: celebrating the coming of Christ with joy and purpose.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc    Culture Proof Podcast: https://podcast.cultureproof.net/    Legend of the Candy Cane:https://amzn.to/480OE6L   If He Had Not Come: https://amzn.to/4oHy8zL   The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: https://amzn.to/4pfXRiz   The Family Under the Bridge: https://amzn.to/43zh6eN   Behold the Lamb of God Music: https://amzn.to/4805hzB   Some links are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through them.

How do we raise children who love God in a culture that no longer acknowledges Him? In this special episode recorded at The Gospel Coalition’s annual Conference, Dr. Josh Mulvihill joins John Piper, Mark Vroegop, and David Michael for a rich conversation about family discipleship in a secular age.   Together, they discuss how secularism shapes the way our children think and how parents and churches can counter that influence by modeling authentic faith, cultivating joy in God, and keeping the Bible at the center of daily life. From practical parenting advice to heartfelt stories of faith and perseverance, this episode helps families understand that discipleship isn’t about behavior modification—it’s about heart transformation.   You’ll walk away encouraged to lead your family toward a deeper love for Christ and equipped with wisdom to navigate a culture that often pulls hearts away from Him.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc 

It’s Christmas time, and Josh and Jen are talking all things gift-giving! In this fun and practical episode, the Mulvihills share meaningful Christmas gift ideas that go beyond the latest fads and focus on spiritual growth, lifelong usefulness, and family connection. Discover how to give gifts that help your children grow in faith and character—from Bibles and classic book series to heirloom-quality tools, instruments, and cookbooks that shape young men and women for life. You’ll also hear how their family keeps Christmas day centered on Christ through shared traditions, time together, and generosity that reflects the gospel. If you’re a parent or grandparent wondering what to buy this year, you’ll walk away inspired and equipped with timeless gift ideas for every age. Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts. Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc  Bible in 365: https://bit.ly/b365gsfpc  SchoolHouse Rocked Podcast: https://www.schoolhouserocked.com/episodes    Gift Guide Links:   Bibles and Bible Accessories: The Bible in Pictures for Little Eyes, 1981 Edition: https://amzn.to/3JEDTiH The Big Picture Story Bible: https://amzn.to/3K6cOFa The Learn to Read Bible: https://amzn.to/4p4kY0d The Biggest Story Bible: https://amzn.to/4a3U0Rk ESV Study Bible: https://amzn.to/3K9LIwR MacArthur Study Bible: https://amzn.to/3LL2HGj ESV Journaling Bible Set: https://amzn.to/3X1qQL6 Illuminated Scripture Journal Set: https://amzn.to/43A8iFy Ultra-Fine Micron Bible Pens: https://amzn.to/49Xs7dK Bible Highlighters: https://amzn.to/4nWpgFj Bible Book Tabs: https://amzn.to/4i1M316   Books to shape your child’s character: Wingfeater Saga: https://amzn.to/4r6752N The Chronicles of Narnia Set: https://amzn.to/3JEFWDp Little House, complete set: https://amzn.to/3X1U0dc The Moffats: https://amzn.to/48kUhOE The Mysterious Benedict Society Set: https://amzn.to/47VDW2Z The Complete James Herriot Set: https://amzn.to/44f8j1I The Princess and the Goblin: https://amzn.to/4pjd3M1 Father Brown Mysteries: https://amzn.to/3XAOPks Kingdom Series: https://amzn.to/43z9MQl Book embosser https://amzn.to/3K3IM4V Some links are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through them.  

The Bible is the foundation of our faith, yet it’s often misunderstood or misapplied. How can parents help their children not only read the Bible but also interpret it correctly? In this episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen Mulvihill share biblical principles and practical tools for guiding children into a faithful understanding of God’s Word. You’ll learn how to teach observation, interpretation, and application through inductive Bible study. Josh and Jen explain why context matters, how Scripture interprets Scripture, and how to avoid twisting verses to fit our own ideas. They also highlight the importance of family discipleship practices that anchor children in truth rather than confusion. Discover simple steps and study tools—commentaries, dictionaries, concordances, and atlases—that can equip your children to handle God’s Word with confidence and grow in wisdom.   Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Some links are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through them.   ESV Spiral-Bound Journaling Bible:https://amzn.to/4o8l59M   The New Strong's Expanded Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible: https://amzn.to/4nNEUno   Expository Thoughts on the Gospels: 7 Volume Set: https://amzn.to/4h1AXZm   Bible Knowledge Commentary (2 Volume Set): https://a.co/d/bZqu4y8    Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary: https://amzn.to/3WxPEde   Biblical Doctrine: A Systematic Summary of Bible Truth: https://amzn.to/4q2wPg0  

Holidays and family gatherings often bring out the best and sometimes the worst in behavior. How can parents prepare their children to navigate social situations with grace and respect? In this episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen share why teaching manners matters and how it reflects the dignity of others made in God’s image They outline ten essential etiquette skills every child should know, from saying “please” and “thank you” to practicing table manners and making introductions. You’ll also hear practical ways to train children, including simple practice at home, recommended books like Manners Begin at Breakfast and Emily Post’s Etiquette, and even community etiquette classes Whether it’s preparing for holiday dinners or everyday interactions, this conversation offers biblical wisdom and hands-on strategies to help children grow into respectful, considerate adults.   Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Some links are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through them.   Manners Begin at Breakfast: Modern Etiquette for Families: https://amzn.to/4h5uj4z   Emily Post's Etiquette, 19th Edition: Manners for Today:https://amzn.to/4h7xc50   Twice Freed by Patricia St. John https://amzn.to/4h5cyCo   Patricia St. John Box Set https://amzn.to/3KFhAtc

Thanksgiving is one of the most meaningful times of the year—but it can easily slip by with little more than food, football, and family. In this episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen Mulvihill share how to make Thanksgiving intentional by centering the holiday on Christ. You’ll hear practical ways to bring Scripture, gratitude, and worship into your celebration. From reading Psalms and writing notes of thanks, to meaningful family activities like the ABC’s of Thanksgiving and serving others together, these ideas help shift the focus back to God’s goodness. Discover how to make your Thanksgiving table more than a meal, but an opportunity to disciple your children and grandchildren, pass down biblical truth, and create lasting faith-filled traditions. Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Some links are Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through them. The Thanksgiving Book: https://amzn.to/47370Ul Heed the Pilgrims: https://amzn.to/4mTCG4s Of Plymouth Plantation: https://amzn.to/4ofm0Wm The Thanksgiving Story: https://amzn.to/3IBeciv

Friendships shape our children in powerful ways. They can bring great joy or deep hurt, and many parents wonder how to guide their children toward lasting, godly relationships. In this episode, Josh and Jen share practical steps families can take to help children not only form healthy friendships but also sustain them over time. From creating intentional opportunities at home to making the church the center of relationships, they walk through real examples of what has worked in their family. You’ll also hear how to train children to recognize godly qualities in others, how to balance friendships with non-believers, and why loving God first is the foundation for loving others well. If you want to equip your children to cultivate meaningful, Christ-centered friendships, this conversation offers encouragement and practical guidance. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc 

Grandparents are God’s good design for the family, not an afterthought. In this episode, Josh and Jen Mulvihill explore the vital role grandparents play in passing on faith and supporting parents in discipleship. You’ll hear stories from their own families, practical encouragement for parents, and biblical truth about the influence of grandparents. Whether you’re a parent navigating grandparent relationships, a future grandparent thinking ahead, or a pastor seeking to equip families, this conversation offers clarity and hope. Discover what the Bible says about grandparents, how to handle family conflict wisely, and why opening the door for godly grandparents can strengthen the faith of the next generation. Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc 

Screens take up more of our children’s time than most of us realize. What can parents do to respond wisely? In this episode of The Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen Mulvihill share practical ways their family has learned to balance technology, set healthy boundaries, and replace screen time with better options. From limiting video games and TV to encouraging outdoor play and family read-alouds, they offer real-life examples of what works. You’ll also hear why media functions as a form of “digital discipleship” and how parents can help children filter messages through God’s Word. This episode provides encouragement, biblical wisdom, and tangible steps for shaping your home in a tech-saturated world. Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  The Last Child in the Woods: https://a.co/d/abzpSeQ Glow Kids: How Screen Addiction Is Hijacking Our Kids - and How to Break the Trance https://a.co/d/6AZx5mN 

What role should children play in corporate worship? Too often, families split up at church and send children to age-based programs while adults attend the main worship service. But Scripture gives us a different picture. In this episode, Josh and Jen explain why children belong in the worship gathering and how parents can prepare them to participate. They share practical tips—like teaching children the music ahead of time, giving them notebooks instead of toys, setting expectations, and even strategic use of suckers—to help make worship both meaningful and manageable. You’ll also hear stories from the Mulvihill home, where joining corporate worship at age five has become a milestone for their children. Learn how to move beyond distractions, encourage note-taking and discussion, and show children that worship is for the whole family. Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc  Family Style, Ina Garden https://amzn.to/41X0Ymu Home is Where the Eggs Are by Molly Yeh https://amzn.to/48nEgb3 Screwtape Letters by CS Lewis https://amzn.to/48mOJnc

Family worship has been one of the most important ways parents have discipled children for centuries. But what does it look like in real life? In this episode, Josh and Jen share how to start family worship, why it matters, and how it changes as children grow older. They answer questions from parents about helping little ones sit still during Bible reading, building prayer habits with teens, and using music to make Scripture memorable. You’ll hear their own family’s story of moving from short Bible readings around the dinner table to in-depth study and prayer with older children. They also highlight practical resources like Long Story Short, Old Story New, and Seeds Family Worship that make it easier for parents to begin. Whether you’re new to family worship or looking to grow deeper, this episode will encourage you to take the next step in leading your home with God’s Word. Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc 

Parenting without a plan often leads to missed opportunities. In this episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen share why intentionality is critical and provide guidance about how to create your own customized discipleship plan for your children. You’ll hear: The story of how Josh and Jen began setting yearly goals for each of their children Why intentionality matters when it comes to spiritual formation Practical ways to create a discipleship plan for your family The four benefits of parenting with a clear plan and purpose How their book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home equips families with a framework for raising children to godly adulthood Whether you’re raising toddlers or sending teens into adulthood, this conversation will encourage you to be intentional with the time God has entrusted to you. Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Check us out on YouTube, Rumble and anywhere you get audio podcasts. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc  What Does the Bible Say About That? By Kevin Swanson: https://amzn.to/4mWaoXx Nertz Card Game: https://amzn.to/3HCxH9O 50 States in 50 Days YouTube Series: I Visited 50 States in 50 Days

What is the biblical goal of parenting? In this episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen share how parents can move beyond survival mode and gain crystal clarity about what they’re aiming for with their children. You’ll hear: Personal stories of faith and legacy from Josh and Jen’s families The surprising research on why children keep (or leave) their faith as adults The three simple practices every parent can start today to nurture authentic faith at home Key biblical passages that shape how parents can disciple their children Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or church leader, this conversation will encourage you to make your child’s maturity in Christ your priority. Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc  Article: The No. 1 Reason Teens Keep Faith as Young Adults: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/the-no-1-reason-teens-kee_b_6067838 Shepherding a Child’s Heart by Tedd Tripp: https://amzn.to/4p62zR5

What happens when a pastor and a musician raise five children, run a farm, and still find time to equip families to disciple their children and grandchildren? In this premiere episode of the Gospel Shaped Family Podcast, Josh and Jen Mulvihill invite you into their world: a home filled with music, ministry, and a mission to raise children who love Jesus, live in obedience to God's truth, and make a difference in this world for Christ.    You’ll hear their story 25 years of marriage, a growing family, and a passion for biblical parenting, intentional Christian grandparenting, and family discipleship. Learn how this podcast is an extension of their ministry with RenewaNation, equipping parents and grandparents to pass on a biblical worldview in today’s culture.    Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, church leader, or just longing to raise children who love Jesus, this episode sets the tone for what’s to come: real conversations about life and family, biblical guidance, gospel-centered insights, and theologically rich resources to help you shape your family with God's Word.    In this episode:  Meet Josh and Jen: their family, farm, and ministry life  Why they created this podcast and what you can expect  Their vision for encouraging and equipping parents and grandparents Book recommendations based on what they are reading right now A goldfish story you don’t want to miss    Subscribe now and join us as we shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel one conversation at a time. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc 

Dr. Josh and Jen Mulvihill provide biblical, practical guidance about parenting, grandparenting, marriage, family discipleship, and raising children with a biblical worldview.   Subscribe and join us for the first full episode. Together we’ll shape hearts, homes, and churches around the gospel—one conversation at a time.