Dying to Live Podcast

What happens when leaders fall?Not just quietly—but publicly, painfully, and in ways that ripple through families, churches, and entire movements. We’ve seen it again and again in the news: moral failure, abuse of power, silence, denial… and the fallout that follows when issues aren’t dealt with biblically. But here’s the harder question—at what point does ignoring failure become endorsement? And what does faith actually require of us in moments like these? In this episode, we’re asking the uncomfortable but necessary questions.What is the godly, biblical way to respond when leaders sin?How do we balance truth and grace, accountability and restoration?And should we speak out when leaders in other movements fall—or is silence the wiser path? This isn’t about gossip or outrage. It’s about integrity, responsibility, and what it truly means to lead—and follow—according to God’s heart.

Every Janu-WORRY (as some people refer to it) we’re told it’s time for a reset. New year, new goals, new habits, new us. But spiritually, many of us step into the new year carrying the same questions, the same struggles, the same disappointments—and the same old selves. We pray, we hope, we try again, yet sometimes nothing feels new at all. So what does God actually expect of us? Is the new year a spiritual performance review (KPA) —do better, try harder, fix yourself? Or is God at work in ways we don’t immediately feel or see? What if newness doesn’t always look like change on the outside, but faithfulness on the inside? What if God isn’t holding a big stick over our failures, but gently leading us forward, even when we feel stuck? In this podcast, New Year, Old Me, we explore the tension between our desire for transformation and the reality of living with unresolved struggles. We’ll talk honestly about faith when nothing feels fresh, hope when progress feels slow, and the grace of a God who meets us not as a “new us,” but as we really are—right here, right now.Dan Barnard and Brett Bevan, both elders leading congregations in JoshGen, share some humour around expectations made of us AND the challenges of finding God in a new year with old challenges and the old me.

What is discipleship, really? It’s not a program or a checklist—it’s a relationship. Discipleship is learning to follow Jesus and inviting others to walk with Him too. It happens through proximity, conversation, and modeling a life shaped by Christ.Jesus didn’t just teach truth—He lived it in front of people. He invited others into His life, showed them what obedience looked like, and sent them out to do the same. That’s why discipleship can’t happen alone. Community matters. We grow best when we follow Jesus together.There is a pattern, but not a formula—teaching and modeling, invitation and practice, walking with people over time. And while we play a role, we are not the Holy Spirit. We can’t transform hearts; we can only be faithful, point to Jesus, and trust God to do the work. That faithfulness starts close to home.We are called to disciple our children by modeling faith in everyday life, not perfection. Discipleship is simple, but it’s not easy: following Jesus together—and living in a way that invites others to follow too.

Deliverance is a word that often brings confusion, curiosity, or even fear. For some, it’s associated with dramatic encounters and intense moments. For others, it raises honest questions they’ve never felt free to ask.Today, we want to slow down and bring clarity. In this episode, we’re de-mystifying deliverance. What is deliverance? What are demons? Can a believer have a demon? And what’s the difference between demon possession and demonic oppression?At its core, deliverance is about freedom—freedom from Satan and his demons, and freedom to walk fully in what Jesus has already accomplished. It’s not about hype or fear; it’s about truth, authority, and wholeness in Christ. And while some deliverance experiences are dramatic, many are gentle moments of freedom—where peace replaces torment and truth replaces lies.Our goal today is simple: to explain, to equip, and to point back to Jesus, the One who sets captives free. Dave and Keena James, an eldership couple from JoshGen City Bowl, share their experiences with deliverance.

Children change everything—our schedules, our priorities, and often, our faith. As parents, we wrestle with big questions.Should family life revolve around our children—their needs, their future, their success?Are we meant to chase sport, achievement, and endless activities in the hope of giving them every advantage? But beneath that lies something deeper.Where do our children fit in the Kingdom of God? What is their place in church life—not just in programs, but in worship, community, and belonging? Are our kids spectators of faith, or are they being formed as active participants in the people of God? What comes first—Jesus or our children?And what if following Jesus means inviting our kids into a shared life of faith, where church is not an event we attend, but a community we belong to together? How do we pursue God wholeheartedly, raise children who truly belong, and still make space for marriage along the way? These questions shape our homes, our churches, and the faith our children grow into.

What does it really mean to live by faith? So often, especially in ministry circles, living by faith is reduced to finances—raising support, trusting God for provision, or serving without a salary. And while money can certainly be part of the story, it’s far from the whole picture.Living by faith is bigger than a bank account. It’s about trusting God with every area of our lives—our decisions, our relationships, our calling, our future, and even our very existence. It’s waking up each day believing that God is who He says He is, and that He can be trusted with what we cannot see.Living by faith doesn’t always feel safe. Sometimes it’s risky. Sometimes it requires us to step forward without clarity, to move before we feel ready, and to obey without guarantees. It’s not reckless—but it is careful courage, grounded in full reliance on God.In this episode, we’ll explore what it truly means to live by faith—not just when it’s convenient, but when it costs us something. When trust replaces control. When obedience matters more than outcomes. And when our confidence rests not in ourselves, but in the faithfulness of God. This is a journey of learning to trust Him—fully, daily, and wholeheartedly.

As believers, we live in a world overflowing with entertainment—movies, shows, music, and media that constantly compete for our attention. Some of it inspires us. Some of it challenges us. And some of it quietly pulls us away from God and who He is calling us to be.Here, we’re asking the hard but necessary questions:What should we be watching—and what should we walk away from?Where do we draw the line between discernment and legalism?How do we navigate fantasy, witchcraft, and symbolic storytelling through a biblical lens?And how do we honour the truth that what may be permissible for one believer may not be beneficial for another—without using grace as an excuse or causing others to stumble? This isn’t about creating rules—it’s about cultivating wisdom and Biblical discernment.It’s about guarding our hearts, renewing our minds, and learning how to engage culture without being consumed by it. This is a place for honest conversation, biblical reflection, and grace-filled clarity—because what we consume shapes us more than we often realize.Mike D'Offay and Dan Barnard, elders in the life of JoshGen, share wisdom, principles and perspective when it comes how we should discern between truth and error for ourselves and our families.

Christmas is more than lights, music, and traditions—it’s a season when hearts are softer and conversations about faith feel more natural. It’s often the one time of year when people who don’t follow Jesus are more open to asking why Christmas is celebrated at all.For many of us, this includes our own unsaved family members—those we love deeply but often find it difficult to share our faith with. During Christmas gatherings, shared traditions, and moments of reflection, doors open that are usually closed. Invitations to church services or simple Gospel conversations are often received with a willingness that doesn’t exist the rest of the year.In this podcast, we’ll explore how the Christmas season gives us a unique and powerful opportunity to lovingly share our faith, invite others to encounter the message of Jesus, and point hearts toward the true reason for Christmas—God with us.

Is there really going to be a rapture of the Church?Does the Bible actually teach it—or is it a modern invention?And if the word “rapture” isn’t even found in Scripture, why do so many Christians believe in it? Over the years, predictions have come and gone—like claims that Jesus would return on specific dates, including September 23rd—leaving many believers confused, skeptical, or even discouraged. Yet Scripture is clear: no one knows the day or the hour of Christ’s return—not the angels, and not even the Son, but the Father alone. In this episode, we’re going to open the Bible and ask honest questions.We’ll look at what Scripture really says about Christ’s return, where the idea of the rapture comes from, and whether it’s something Christians should expect. Most importantly, we’ll ask this: How should we live in light of Christ’s coming?Not in fear.Not in date-setting.But with watchfulness, holiness, and urgency—living as if Christ could return at any moment, while faithfully reaching the lost with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Because whether you call it the rapture, the catching away, or the blessed hope, one truth remains certain: Jesus is coming again—and that reality should shape how we live today.

Intercession is one of the most powerful yet often overlooked callings in a believer’s life. It goes beyond personal prayer—intercession shifts our focus from ourselves to standing before God on behalf of others. It is spiritual advocacy, partnership with Heaven, and a willingness to carry someone else’s burden in prayer.Scripture gives us a clear picture in Daniel, a man who confessed the sins of his nation and sought God’s mercy even when he personally wasn’t at fault. His intercession moved Heaven, released revelation, and impacted the future of his people. Daniel shows us that intercession is persistent, sacrificial, and aligned with God’s heart.The greatest example, though, is Jesus Christ, who ever lives to make intercession for us. He stands at the right hand of the Father as our Advocate and High Priest. And as His followers, we are invited into that same ministry—to join Jesus in standing in the gap for families, communities, and nations. Intercession isn’t for a select few; it’s a calling for every believer.

In Scripture, spiritual warfare isn’t about fear or chasing the supernatural — it’s the reality that unseen spiritual forces influence our world. But believers aren’t left defenseless. God gives us spiritual authority, not to control spiritual beings, but to stand firm, resist evil, and live aligned with His purpose.That authority has boundaries. We’re called to exercise it within the areas God has entrusted to us — our own lives, families, and responsibilities. When people try to confront spiritual powers outside that God-given sphere, they can step into confusion, fear, or unnecessary spiritual danger. True authority always flows from humility, dependence on God, obedience to His leading and a close relationship with Jesus. In this episode, Kassie du Plessis & Ruan Slabbert, elders in the life of JoshGen, look at:What spiritual warfare really isHow to exercise authority wiselyAnd why stepping beyond God’s boundaries can be risky

In this episode we step back in time to better understand our faith today and explore the rich and often overlooked story of church history—why it matters, how it shapes what we believe, and why knowing our roots is essential for guarding truth.Throughout the centuries, the church has wrestled with questions, challenges, and controversies. These moments didn’t just fill textbooks—they forged the doctrines we hold today. Understanding that journey equips us to recognize sound teaching, stand firm against heresy, and appreciate the wisdom passed down through generations. Because in the end, truth isn’t new, and what’s new isn’t truth. While some doctrines have been rediscovered over time, none are waiting to be invented.So join Dylan Jones and Luke Hulley, both elders in the life of JoshGen, as they help us explore how the past impacts the present—and strengthens our faith for the future.

Today we’re talking about a powerful but often misunderstood spiritual gift—the gift of discerning of spirits. This God-given insight helps us recognize what is from the Holy Spirit, what’s simply human, and what may be influenced by the enemy. When used well, it brings clarity, protection, and wisdom to the church. But it’s important to distinguish true discernment from being critical or suspicious. The genuine gift reflects the Holy Spirit’s character—love, humility, and a desire to build up. A critical or suspicious spirit, however, assumes the worst, focuses on fault-finding, and often causes unnecessary division.In today’s episode, Shaun and Chantelle Searle who lead the JoshGen Gordon's Bay congregation and Dylan Jones who leads the Muiznebrg congregation, explore what this gift really is, how to grow in it, and how to exercise it in a healthy, Christ-centered way that strengthens the church.

Today, we’re stepping into one of the most discussed—and sometimes divisive—topics in the church: Are the gifts of the Holy Spirit still for today, or did they cease when ‘the perfect came’?Some say the miraculous gifts—prophecy, tongues, healing—were only for the apostolic age. Others believe the same power that filled the early church is still available to believers right now.In this episode, we’ll open Scripture, look at history, and ask: What did Paul really mean? What does it look like to walk in the power of the Spirit today—with wisdom, discernment, and love? Whether you come from a charismatic or conservative background, this conversation isn’t about taking sides—it’s about seeking truth together and letting God’s Word speak for itself.Jonathan Stanfield, lead pastor of Living Hope in the Isle of Man, and Dan Barnard who leads the JoshGen AM Congregation in Sunningdale, share some insights around this important subject.

Christian Nationalism — it’s a phrase that stirs up a lot of heat—and not always a lot of light. Some say believers should reclaim political power to enforce biblical values. Others warn it confuses God’s Kingdom with the kingdoms of this world. So where should the Church stand? Should we be shaping laws or shaping hearts? Can we really legislate Christian beliefs for those who don’t know Christ?Jesus said, ‘My kingdom is not of this world,’ yet He also called us the light of the world. In today’s episode, we’ll look at where faith meets politics, what true influence looks like for believers, and even consider voices like Charlie Kirk — asking, does this reflect biblical Christianity or something else?Luke Hulley and Mike Davies, elders in JoshGen, talk about what it really means to follow the King, not a party.

Is healing for everyone, always? If God can heal — why doesn’t He heal everyone we pray for?And what does the Bible really say about healing, faith, and suffering? For some, healing brings hope. For others, it brings confusion, doubt, and even disappointment. We read stories of miracles in Scripture, and we hear testimonies of healing today — yet sometimes, despite sincere prayer and deep faith, healing doesn’t come. And people are left wondering: Did I not have enough faith? Did God ignore me? Did I fail somehow? But biblical truth clears the confusion: faith is not “faith in faith” — it’s faith in God.Healing is not powered by human belief or “faith healing.” True healing is always divine healing — it comes from God alone, according to His purpose, wisdom, and timing. Yes, God does heal — the Bible makes that clear. But the same Bible also speaks of suffering, trials, weakness, and perseverance. Sometimes God displays His power by removing the trial — and sometimes He displays His glory by sustaining us through it.As Paul said: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). This conversation is not about shallow answers. It’s about biblical faith, honest struggle, and real hope rooted in the character of God.

Change. It touches every one of us. Sometimes we choose it — like a new job, a move, or a personal goal — and other times it crashes into our lives uninvited — loss, uncertainty, or unexpected disruptions. But one thing is certain: change is not optional — it’s inevitable. The real question is how we navigate it.In today’s episode, we’re going to explore what change really is, why it’s often uncomfortable, and how we can respond to it in a way that builds faith instead of fear. We’ll talk practically about navigating seasons of transition — whether in work, relationships, church, or personal life — and discover that change isn’t actually our enemy. When God is in it, change becomes a tool He uses to shape us, stretch us, and lead us into His purposes.God's Word reminds us that while everything around us may shift and move, God Himself never changes. Hebrews 13:8 says: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” So while life may feel uncertain, we don’t walk through change alone — we walk with the One who holds our future and leads us step by step.

DISCLAIMER: This podcast should be listened to with discretion as it includes discussion of a sexual nature and may not be appropriate for younger listeners.In this second part of our conversation, we move from the “why” to the “how.” Joining us are Mike D’Offay, an elder in the life of JoshGen, and Christian counselor Pierre van der Westhuizen. Together we take a more practical look at what it means to walk alongside those who are sexually broken—how to create a safe, gospel-centered environment, how to respond wisely in the moment, and how to discern the next faithful step in each person’s journey toward freedom and wholeness in Christ. Whether you’re a community leader, elder, or simply a believer who wants to love people well, this episode explores real situations and biblical principles that help us minister with both the compassion of Jesus and the courage of His truth, keeping restoration—not perfection—as our goal.

When we talk about the church, it’s natural to ask: “Is my church the best? How does it compare to others? Should I even be thinking that way?” These are questions many believers wrestle with at some point in their journey. On the one hand, we want to be grateful and committed to the local body God has placed us in. On the other hand, we can’t ignore that churches differ—in teaching, culture, priorities, and health.The challenge is this: how do we evaluate a church without falling into judgmental comparison? The real standard is not whether my church is bigger, more exciting, or seems to worship better than another—it’s whether it aligns with the Word of God and follows the New Testament pattern for the church. Scripture, not personal preference, is the measure by which every church must ultimately be weighed.So in this episode, together with our guests Michael D'Offay and Luke Hulley, we’ll look to the Bible’s teaching on what defines a faithful church, consider how to weigh the strengths and weaknesses of a local fellowship, and explore how to do so in a way that is humble, God-honouring, and rooted in love for Christ’s bride—the church.

How do we discipline our children in a way that trains hearts and shapes character, reflecting the patient way our heavenly Father trains and teaches us?Too often, discipline is mistaken for punishment—but true biblical discipline is a process of discipling while guiding our children toward wisdom, maturity, and adulthood. We believe correction begins with connection: communication before correction, and no expectation without communication.It’s about shepherding their hearts, not simply controlling their behaviour. Together we’ll explore practical steps and truths that will help parents nurture faith, build trust, and lead their children toward a personal relationship with Jesus. Join us as we discover discipline that disciples rather than punishes.