The Follower Podcast

In this episode, we explore how Western Christianity has shifted from a belief system deeply embedded in societal and political structures to one that is increasingly privatised and fragile. Drawing on the insights of philosopher Charles Taylor, we examine the historical revolutions that have shaped our current secular landscape and how these changes impact Christian witness today. Join Matthew Lewis and Liam Byrnes as they walk carefully through these profound cultural transformations, seeking biblical truth in an age of confusion. Key Topics: The historical development of secularism from the Reformation to today How the church’s relationship with power and influence has shifted over centuries The impact of individualism, privatisation, and the marketplace of ideas on faith The decline of a shared public faith and the rise of faith as a personal choice The role of fear, pain, and cultural shifts in shaping modern belief environments How Christians can embody winsome love and faithful presence amidst secular fragility Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Walking the line between instruction and companionship 01:20 - Charles Taylor’s question: How did belief shift from almost impossible not to believe, to almost impossible to believe? 02:15 - The environment of Christendom 500 years ago: churches in every village, societal structures centered on God 03:30 - The Protestant Reformation and the fracturing of Christendom 04:50 - Bloodshed and infighting: the birth of religious tolerance and the secular sphere 06:00 - The secular experiment: creating spaces for diverse beliefs without conflict 07:10 - The emergence of secularism as a response to religious division and persecution 08:15 - The three revolutions of secularism: societal, cultural, and individualized belief 09:20 - Secular revolution one: the Reformation as a move towards religious pluralism 10:05 - The separation of church and state: from religious unity to a marketplace of ideas 11:00 - The influence of Christian ethics on education, healthcare, and social good 12:00 - The smoke of Christendom versus the fire of Christian living 13:00 - The margin of influence: how privilege shaped early Christian community 14:30 - The shift to Christian persecution: early Christians as resilient communities of belief 15:45 - The second secular revolution: the decline of religious power and authority 16:15 - Modern fragility: belief becomes plastic and contestable 17:00 - The influence of naturalism and secular humanism in shaping worldview 18:10 - How Western Christianity drifted from its rooted, communal, and political imagination 19:10 - The rise of individualism and the privatization of faith—"me and my Jesus" 20:00 - Moving from heroic martyrdom to cultural accommodation 21:00 - The blurred line: Faith as a personal choice, not a communal commitment 22:00 - The challenge of belief under pluralism and skepticism 23:00 - How fear, pain, and cultural shifts threaten the resilience of faith 24:00 - Opportunities for Christian witness: embodying love, linking deeds to the kingdom 25:00 - The importance of humble, winsome engagement over defensiveness or aggression 26:30 - The necessity of courage rooted in dependence on the Spirit of Jesus 27:45 - The biblical call: Living as signs of God's coming kingdom in a fragile world 29:00 - The church’s power: not in dominance but in sacrificial love and humble presence 30:30 - Closing: Hope for a faithful witness amid secular fragility. Resources and Links: A Secular Age by Charles Taylor

In this final conversation of the second season of One Heart, Matthew and David Thomas discuss the Asbury outpouring of 2023 and the lesser known story of reconciliation that proceeded it. David shares his personal journey of faith, emphasising the need for resilience and humility. He also explores the significance of community and authentic relationships in experiencing God's presence, and offers insights for leaders in ministry in times of awakening.  To find out more about 24-7 Prayer South Africa or get the One Heart prayer guide you can visit their website here. To find out more about the Asbury outpouring and the stories of reconciliation around it you can visit The Awakening Library here. TAKE AWAYS The journey of seeking Jesus requires resilience and humility. Authentic community is essential for experiencing God's presence. Reconciliation plays a crucial role in revival and awakening. Jesus is the reward of our lives and the source of our identity. Awakening is not about celebrity but about the presence of Jesus. KEY WORDS Asbury, revival, Jesus, reconciliation, awakening, spiritual hunger, community, leadership, prayer, presence of God  

In this episode, Khumo Ntlha shares her profound journey of faith, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation, the role of suffering in deepening one's relationship with God, and the integration of faith in social justice work. She reflects on her personal experiences, including the challenges faced in her family and community, and how these have shaped her commitment to being a voice for the marginalized, particularly women in the energy sector. Khumo's insights highlight the necessity of obedience to God's call in the pursuit of reconciliation and the collective responsibility of Christians to bring hope and healing to a broken world. To get your copy of the On Heart Prayer guide visit 24-7 Prayer SA here. TAKEAWAYS Suffering can deepen faith and bring families closer to God. Reconciliation is a vital aspect of Christian life and not optional. The importance of integrating faith with work in social justice. Faith and work can coexist harmoniously in the pursuit of justice. Obedience to God's call is essential for true reconciliation. Christians are called to be light and salt in a world filled with darkness. KEYWORDS faith, reconciliation, suffering, personal journey, social justice, women empowerment, Christian activism, healing, hope, obedience  

In this episode of the Follower Podcast, Thirza Kunnen shares her journey of finding God in rest and grace, her research on reconciliation in South Africa, and the powerful stories of pain and hope she encountered. The conversation explores the significance of prayer, repentance, and the healing power of community, emphasizing the importance of understanding trauma and the role of prayer as a unifying force in diverse communities. This series of conversations is a collaboration with 24-7 Prayer South Africa as part of the One Heart prayer initiative for reconciliation. You can get your prayer guide and join us in the journey by visiting their website here. TAKEAWAYS Prayer doesn't prepare us for the great work. Prayer is the great work. Forgiveness is a key in healing. Repentance is not a finish line, but a starting place. KEYWORDS rest, grace, South Africa, reconciliation, prayer, trauma, healing, stories, anthropology, community

In this conversation, Reverend Joseph Nyamutera shares his experiences of cultural identity, belonging, and the challenges of navigating relationships in a global context. He reflects on his journey of faith, the impact of personal wounds on conflict, and the lessons learned from the Rwandan genocide. The discussion emphasizes the importance of healing, reconciliation, and vulnerability in leadership, ultimately calling all believers to engage in the ministry of reconciliation. To get a copy of the One Heart prayer guide and join in the 50 days of prayer for reconciliation go to the 24-7 Prayer South Africa website. Takeaways Cultural identity shapes our understanding of belonging. Navigating relationships often involves managing tensions. Conflict can teach us valuable lessons about humanity.. Personal wounds can influence our perspectives in conflict. Survival in crisis can deepen our faith and understanding of God. Vulnerability in leadership fosters genuine connections. All believers are called to the ministry of reconciliation. Keywords Cultural Identity, Belonging, Jesus, Relationships, Conflict, Rwandan Genocide, Healing, Reconciliation, Vulnerability

In this conversation, Matthew and Phil explore the themes of reconciliation, discipleship, and the role of the church in fostering a community that embodies the teachings of Jesus. They discuss the importance of abiding in Christ, the ongoing journey of reconciliation, and the need for systemic change within the church and society. The dialogue emphasises that true unity goes beyond mere coexistence and calls for a deeper, shared life among believers. Ultimately, they highlight the revolutionary nature of the church as a transformative presence in the world. To get Phil's books you can FOLLOW THIS LINK. TAKEAWAYS Reconciliation is rooted in a deep relationship with Jesus. The ministry of reconciliation is an ongoing journey. Activism without abiding can lead to more chaos. Community is where reconciliation practices are learned. The church's role is to be a systemic change agent. True unity is about shared life, not just being in the same room. The church is a revolutionary presence in society. The ministry of reconciliation has no expiration date. KEYWORDS reconciliation, discipleship, community, abiding, ministry, church, activism, unity, systemic change, Jesus  

In this conversation, Matthew speaks with with Peter Tarantal and Alexander Venter on the themes of personal faith experiences, the importance of unity within the church, and the challenges of reconciliation in a divided society. They reflect on their personal journeys with Jesus, the significance of community, and the need for the church to model unity as a witness to the world. The discussion emphasizes the ongoing struggle for reconciliation in South Africa and the role of the youth in driving change. Take Aways Intentional time with Jesus is foundational for faith. Experiencing Jesus in community enriches our faith. Unity in the church is crucial for its credibility. The church's disunity undermines its witness to the world. Reconciliation requires humility and crossing cultural barriers. The youth have the power to drive change in society. Working across cultural lines can be challenging but necessary. The church must resist cultural pressures that promote division. Diversity in the church reveals a fuller picture of Jesus. Love and dignity for others are essential in our interactions. Living the way of Jesus means serving others selflessly. The youth have a crucial role in leading reconciliation efforts. The book that Alexander mentioned in the podcast as well as others he has written can be found on his website. Keywords Jesus, unity, reconciliation, church, South Africa, community, diversity, faith, healing, love, reconciliation, unity, cultural barriers, stories, church, diversity, kingdom of heaven, honest conversations, youth, Jesus

In this episode of the Follower podcast, Matthew sits down with Nkosinathi Mbuyazi, and A.C. Lee to discuss The One Heart Prayer Journey, emphasizing the importance of unity, reconciliation, and prayer in the church.   They explore Jesus' high priestly prayer, the urgency of prayer in today's divided world, and the introduction of a new prayer guide designed to facilitate personal and communal reconciliation.   The conversation also highlights the power of worship and the significance of humility in fostering unity among believers.   This episode also features an original song written by A.C. and other musicians in Nashville.   Take aways Jesus prayed for unity among believers. Reconciliation is central to the biblical narrative. The church is called to be known by its love. Prayer is essential for achieving unity. Reconciliation extends beyond racial issues. Worship can be a powerful tool for unity. Humility is key in resolving conflicts. The urgency of prayer is highlighted in today's world. Personal reconciliation with God is the starting point. prayer, reconciliation, unity, church, Jesus, One Heart, ministry, worship, community, love

In this episode Puno Selesho compiles a beautiful poem that communicates the key themes she experienced at the 24/7 Prayer South Africa National gathering. The poem is a powerful and compelling call to a deeper life of abiding and response.  You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com

In this episode Zikhona Magana of the 24-7 Prayer South Africa team shares her story of moving against the odds into the call of God on her life, working for justice in South Africa and why we all have an opportunity to build a better nation together.  You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com

In this episode Sheila Wise Rowe shares her insights and experiences from years in ministry around the tension between our being and our doing and how we live into that tension well. In particular she speaks about the communal imperative of the Christian faith and how we need one another in the journey.  You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com

In this episode Brian Heasley reminds us that prayer, mission and justice are inseparable and essential elements of the Christian life. Through his personal stories and helpful insights he helps us consider what it might live a life that is more radically given to partnership with Jesus in healing the world.  You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com

In this episode Nicholas Rowe encourages us to heed the words of Jesus to Peter in the garden and 'Put away the sword'. He reminds us that while it can be tempting to build and minister according to the mechanisms of Empire, these strategies do not yield Kingdom fruit.  You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com

In this episode Danielle Strickland challenges us to really consider our images of God and ask what it might mean to return to and image of god that looks more like Jesus.  You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com

In this episode Robert Ntuli brilliantly outlines a Kingdom vision for The Church and challenges us to repent from building after "patterns of Egypt" and return to building according to patterns of The Kingdom of God. You can find out more about the ministry of Follower by visiting www.wearefollower.com You can get involved with the One Heart prayer guide by visiting www.24-7Prayerafrica.com

In this episode we hear from Rene August, a veteran in the anti-Apartheid movement, anglican priest, reconciliation trainer and companion to churches wanting to respond to issues of poverty, injustice and division in their city.  Among other things Rene calls us to return to the Jesus of Bible and seek to walk faithfully in His way.  For more on the ministry of Follower you can visit www.wearefollower.com

In this episode Matthew has a conversation with Anneke Rabee, a champion of prayer and reconciliation in South Africa and the nations of the world. Anneke shares stories of prayer and reconciliation from her own life and challenges us as The Church to take hands with Jesus in the work of healing the deep wounds of our world. To find out more about the ministry of Follower you can visit www.wearefollower.com

This is a recording of the first session at the first national gathering for 24/7 Prayer South Africa . We will be releasing one session from the gathering every day for the next ten days as part of the build up to season two on the One Heart prayer series where we will be sharing conversations with leaders in the ministry of reconciliation from all over the world. You can find out more about the One Heart Prayer journey here. In this episode we hear from Nkosinathi Mbuyazi  who reminds us that Joy is our strength and Danielle Strickland  who invites us to return to the womb of God as we abandon the broken systems of this world and live into a new Kingdom imagination. As always, if this episode has been helpful for you please Subscribe, leave a review and share it with your world.  To find out more about the ministry of follower visit www.wearefollower.com

In this episode Matthew has a discussion with Nicholas Rowe, and Sheila Wise Rowe about leadership, reconciliation, and the current challenges facing faith communities.   They explore the importance of returning to the authenticity of Christ amidst cultural Christianity, the historical context of co-opted faith, and the need for deep listening and discernment in today's world.   They also address the challenges of navigating diversity within the church and the importance of embracing a commitment to God's vision for the church and the need for prayer and guidance in this journey.   If you enjoyed this conversation you can hear more from both Nicholas and Lisa at the 24/7 Prayer South Africa Gathering from the 27-29 March.   TAKE AWAYS There is a call for the church to regain its prophetic voice. We must return to scripture as a foundation for faith. Healing requires transformation of the mind. Community is vital for healing and growth. Humility is necessary to recognize our need for healing. Diversity in the church reflects God's design. We must lean into God's vision for His church. Wounding often occurs in community, but so does healing. Every individual contributes to the body of Christ. KEYWORDS leadership, reconciliation, trauma, faith, authenticity, historical context, co-opted Christianity, Kairos moments, spiritual health, emotional health, rest, healing, community, humility, diversity, church, leadership, transformation, gospel, trust

In this conversation, Matthew speaks with Danielle Strickland about her experiences with failure, the current cultural shifts within the church, and the importance of returning to the teachings of Jesus.   In particular, we hope that the thoughts on the internal journey required to shed pretense, the role of addiction recovery in fostering vulnerability, the church's struggle with confession and accountability, and redefining success in ministry through the lens of radical love and the transformative power of Jesus' acceptance will be helpful for you.   To hear more from Danielle you could visit here site or join us at the 24/7 Prayer South Africa national gathering from the 27-29 March 2025.   TAKE AWAYS Some parts of the church are thriving because they throw themselves into the hands of God. Let the light come, we are friends with the light. The core message of Jesus is a descending one. You can't really fail if you understand that you are living out of love. What would it look like in your life if you lived from love? Authenticity begins with internal work. Community support is crucial for healing. The church often struggles with genuine confession. Success in ministry should be redefined. Vulnerability is essential for true connection. Finding freedom starts with self-acceptance. KEY WORDS Danielle Strickland, failure, church, cultural shifts, Jesus, restoration, leadership, faith, community, love, authenticity, church leadership, mental health, community, recovery, confession, success, radical love, discipleship, vulnerability