It’s Elementary - An Asbury Theological Seminary Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Tesia Mallory, Dean of Chapel at Asbury Theological Seminary, shares how her call to ministry dates back to her baptism. She and Dr. Watson explore how worship forms Christian identity, why Word and Table belong at the center of congregational life, and how Wesleyans understand the Eucharist as a holy mystery that resists both memorialism and overly mechanical explanations. Dr. Mallory also discusses preparing global worship for the Global Methodist Church 2026 General Conference in Johannesburg, emphasizing the importance of honoring diverse cultural expressions and seeking a Spirit-filled unity. She reflects on her Substack, her work on the GMC Book of Worship, and her vision for worship that begins with God and leads the Church outward in mission. RESOURCES • Hymns on the Lord’s Supper (John & Charles Wesley) • Tesia L. Mallory’s Substack: Worship Resources - https://tesiamallory.substack.com/ • Tesia L. Mallory, Worship Resources Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TLMWorshipResources/ ASBURY SEMINARY LINKS • Podcasts: https://asbury.to/podcasts  • Website: https://asburyseminary.edu/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsburySeminary/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asburyseminary • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asburyseminary Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the official position of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material presented is for general information purposes only. #AsburySeminary #WorshipLife #ChristianFormation #WordAndTable #WesleyanTradition

Dr. David Watson and Dr. Jessica LaGrone welcome Bishop John Mark Richardson, jurisdictional bishop in the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) and Executive Director of the Wesleyan Holiness Connection. Bishop Richardson shares his remarkable story from a multi-generational ministry family to his early career in law enforcement, and ultimately to his leadership role shepherding churches on the West Coast. Bishop Richardson traces the origins and growth of the Church of God in Christ, the historic connection to the Azusa Street Revival, and the early interracial beginnings of the Pentecostal movement. He explains why Pentecostalism has become the world’s fastest-growing Christian expression—and why recovering the holiness dimension of the Christian life is so essential for today’s church. The conversation moves into the birth of the Wesleyan Holiness Connection, the story behind its extraordinary cross-denominational diversity, and the ongoing work of bringing Wesleyan Christians of all backgrounds together in unity, prayer, and shared mission.  MENTIONS • Church of God in Christ (COGIC) - https://www.cogic.org/ • Wesleyan Holiness Connection - https://holinessandunity.org/ LINKS Podcasts: https://asbury.to/podcasts  Website: https://asburyseminary.edu/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsburySeminary/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asburyseminary TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asburyseminary Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the official position of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material presented is for general information purposes only. #ItsElementaryPodcast #WesleyanHoliness #COGIC #HolinessMovement #AsburySeminary #PentecostalHistory #ChristianUnity #ChurchLeadership

Dr. David Watson and Dr. Jessica LaGrone explore the deeply biblical and deeply human practice of mentoring, guiding, and walking alongside others in the journey of faith. Together they discuss how mentoring forms both the mentor and the mentee, why younger Christians today are longing for intergenerational wisdom, and how the church can reclaim a healthier vision of discipleship rooted in community. Drawing on their own experiences, they offer practical, encouraging insights for anyone seeking to invest in others or to receive guidance themselves. Asbury Theological Seminary Links: Podcasts: https://asbury.to/podcasts Website: https://asburyseminary.edu/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AsburySeminary/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/asburyseminary Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@asburyseminary Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views and opinions of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material presented here is for general information purposes only. #AsburySeminary #Mentoring #Faith #WesleyanDiscipleship #SpiritualFormation

In this episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. David Watson checks in from Washington, D.C., fresh from attending the National Prayer Breakfast, sparking a rich conversation with Dr. Jessica LaGrone about what it means to live out Christian faith in public today. Together they explore the tension between the desire for national unity and the deep ideological divides within American culture, and why the church’s public witness so often struggles to rise above the noise. Their conversation moves from the Prayer Breakfast to the broader state of Christianity in the public square, asking what it means for Wesleyans to reclaim a faithful, distinct, and compelling voice. Mentions National Prayer Breakfast - https://npbfoundation.com/ Asbury Theological Seminary Links:  Podcasts: https://asbury.to/podcasts Website: https://asburyseminary.edu/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsburySeminary/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asburyseminary Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asburyseminary Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views and opinions of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material presented here is for general information purposes only.

In this inspiring episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. David Watson and Dr. Jessica LaGrone welcome artist, author, and Asbury Seminary’s Artist in Residence, Dr. Winfield Bevins, to explore themes from his newest book, How Beauty Will Save the World: Recovering the Power of the Arts for the Christian Life. Dr. Bevins shares candid stories of how beauty has shaped—and even saved—his own life, from an art teacher who helped pull him out of a dark teenage season to a transformative encounter with music that rekindled his faith after burnout. Join this conversation on why beauty is not merely decoration but a profound doorway to encounter God in a fragmented age.   Mentions Books How Beauty Will Save the World: Recovering the Power of the Arts for the Christian Life by Dr. Winfield Bevins - https://www.creoarts.org/beauty Art and the Bible by Francis Schaeffer Other Creo Arts – https://www.creoarts.org Dr. Bevins’ Personal Website – https://www.winfieldbevins.com   Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views and opinions of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material presented here is for general information purposes only.    

In this theologically rich episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. David Watson and Dr. Ken Collins, Professor of Historical Theology and Wesley Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary, explore themes from Dr. Collins’ new book, Generous Divine Love: The Grace and Power of Methodist Theology. Dr. Collins shares his faith journey from upbringing to discovering Wesleyan theology through a retired Free Methodist minister, a turning point shaped by reading John Wesley’s 52 Standard Sermons. Together they discuss the heart of Wesleyan theology: God’s generous and transformative love, the optimism of grace, the relational nature of the Triune God, and the breadth and sufficiency of grace for every human need. Mentions Books by Dr. Ken Collins Generous Divine Love: The Grace and Power of Methodist Theology Jesus the Stranger: A Daily Lenten Reader A Real Christian: The Life of John Wesley The Sermons of John Wesley. A Collection for the Christian Journey. Edited by Prof. Kenneth J. Collins and Dr. Jason E. Vickers. Other Books John Wesley’s 52 Standard Sermons Søren Kierkegaard, Purity of Heart Is to Will One Thing Randy Maddox, Responsible Grace Albert C. Outler, The Works of John Wesley (Four Volumes) Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views and opinions of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only.

Dr. David Watson and Dr. Jessica LaGrone sit down with Dr. Steve Seamands, Professor Emeritus of Christian Doctrine at Asbury Theological Seminary and one of the most beloved voices in the Wesleyan world. Drawing from 35 years of teaching, ministry, and personal experience, Dr. Seamands reflects on the changing needs of the church, the essential role of mystery in Christian theology, and the ongoing ministry of Christ through healing and deliverance. He shares candidly about his own journey into healing ministry, the pain and restoration that shaped his calling, and the deep work of God that often takes place in seminary communities—where future ministers not only learn doctrine but are themselves mended and transformed. Books Mentioned Wounds That Heal – Steve Seamands Follow the Healer – Steve Seamands Deliverance from Evil Spirits – Francis MacNutt The Next Christendom – Philip Jenkins Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views and opinions of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only.

In this episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. David Watson talks with Arthur Jones, senior pastor of St. Andrew Methodist Church in Plano, Texas, about life and ministry in an independent Methodist context. Arthur shares his journey from denominational to local church leadership, the challenges and opportunities of being independent yet connectional, and why catechesis is key to sustaining Wesleyan theology for future generations. They also discuss mental health ministry, the role of networks, the future of denominationalism, and how churches can respond to cultural shifts, including the rise of AI and the need for authentic community. Guest Arthur Jones – Senior Pastor, St. Andrew Methodist Church, Plano, TX Hosted by Dr. David F. Watson – President, Asbury Theological Seminary Mentions Books Key United Methodist Beliefs by William J. Abraham and David F. Watson (soon republished as Key Christian Beliefs) Articles / Podcasts “Surprising Rebirth: A Belief in God” podcast by Justin Brierley Organizations / Programs St. Andrew Methodist Church, Plano, TX - https://standrewmethodist.org/ Invite Resources - https://www.inviteministries.org Beacon of Light - https://standrewmethodist.org/resources/beacon-of-light/ Hope Squad - https://www.hopesquad.com Asbury Seminary Asbury Theological Seminary – https://asbury.to Asbury Theological Seminary Podcasts – https://asbury.to/podcasts Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the official position of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material presented is for general information purposes only.

In this episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. David Watson and Dr. Jessica LaGrone welcome Rev. Andrew Forrest—author and senior pastor of Asbury Church in Tulsa—for a thought-provoking conversation on evangelism in a post-Christian culture. Andrew shares insights from his new book Love Goes First, exploring why accommodation, judgment, and withdrawal fail—and how moving first in love opens doors for the gospel. Together, they discuss cultural shifts, the “negative world,” and practical steps for Christians to live incarnationally and courageously in today’s polarized society. Guests Rev. Andrew Forrest – Senior Pastor, Asbury Church (Tulsa, OK), Author of Love Goes First Hosted by Dr. David F. Watson – President, Asbury Theological Seminary Dr. Jessica LaGrone – Executive Director, Beeson International Center for Biblical Preaching and Leadership, Asbury Theological Seminary Resources & Mentions Love Goes First by Andrew Forrest – Available on Amazon Asbury Church – https://asburytulsa.org Asbury Theological Seminary – https://asbury.to Asbury Theological Seminary Podcasts – https://asbury.to/podcasts Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views and opinions of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only.

In this episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. David Watson and Dr. Jessica LaGrone welcome Dr. Nicole Massie Martin—author, speaker, and Chief Executive Officer at Christianity Today—for a powerful conversation about leadership, surrender, and the presence of God in ministry. Nicole shares her journey from Baltimore to global Christian leadership, her calling story, and why authentic encounters with God matter more than ever. Together, they explore themes from her book Nailing It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering and Surrender, the dangers of perfectionism, and practical wisdom for leaders navigating new paths in a changing world. Guests Dr. Nicole Massie Martin – Author of Nailing It, CEO at Christianity Today, Founder of Soulfire Ministries Hosted by Dr. Jessica LaGrone – Executive Director, Beeson International Center for Biblical Preaching and Leadership, Asbury Theological Seminary Resources & Mentions Nailing It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering and Surrender – Available on Amazon Soulfire Ministries – https://www.sfiministries.org Christianity Today – https://www.christianitytoday.com Asbury Theological Seminary – https://asbury.to Asbury Theological Seminary Podcasts – https://asbury.to/podcasts Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views and opinions of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only.

In this episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. David Watson and Dr. Jessica LaGrone welcome Rev. Anne Kennedy—writer and Anglican priest—for a compelling conversation about faith, writing, and the future of Anglicanism. Together, they explore Anne’s journey from missionary roots to shaping global Anglican conversations, her role in drafting the Kigali Statement, and the challenges facing the church today. Anne also shares practical wisdom for sustaining spiritual life and creativity in a digital age. Guests Anne Kennedy – Writer, Anglican Priest, Author of Demotivations with Anne (Substack) Hosted by Dr. David F. Watson – President, Asbury Theological Seminary Dr. Jessica LaGrone – Executive Director, Beeson International Center for Biblical Preaching and Leadership, Asbury Theological Seminary Resources & Mentions Demotivations with Anne – https://annekennedy.substack.com/ The Kigali Statement – https://gafcon.org/communique-updates/gafcon-iv-the-kigali-commitment/ Asbury Theological Seminary – https://asbury.to Asbury Theological Seminary Podcasts – https://asbury.to/podcasts Substack Recommendations by Anne The Anglican by David Roseberry – https://davidroseberry.substack.com The Honest Broker – https://www.honest-broker.com Notes from Beth-Elim by Peter Leithart – https://peterleithart.substack.com Hiraeth in Exile – https://bigmodernism.substack.com Grace Notes – https://emmariehutch.substack.com Resources 4 Redemption – https://resources4redemption.substack.com/ Mary Harrington – https://substack.com/@reactionaryfeminist Louise Perry – https://substack.com/@louiseperry Teach Like a Mother – https://teachlikeamother.substack.com Book Recommendations Haven in a Heartless World by Christopher Lasch Any works by Christopher Lasch That Hideous Strength by C.S. Lewis All Hallows’ Eve by Charles Williams Complementarity: Dignity, Difference, and Interdependence by Gregg Allison PG Wodehouse novels Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views and opinions of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only.

In this episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. David Watson welcomes Dr. Bill Arnold, Paul S. Amos Professor of Old Testament Interpretation at Asbury Theological Seminary, for a deep and engaging conversation about the enduring significance of the Old Testament. Together, they explore the relationship between the Old and New Testaments and the theological foundations that shape our understanding of God. Guests Dr. Bill T. Arnold – Paul S. Amos Professor of Old Testament Interpretation, Asbury Theological Seminary Hosted by Dr. David F. Watson - President, Asbury Theological Seminary Resources & Mentions The Cambridge Introduction to the Old Testament by Dr. Bill T. Arnold  Canon and Community by James Sanders Ten Reasons to Question Q by Mark Goodacre - https://markgoodacre.org/Q/ten.htm Asbury Theological Seminary – asbury.to Asbury Theological Seminary Podcasts – asbury.to/podcasts Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views and opinions of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only.

In this episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. Jessica LaGrone welcomes Dr. Christine Johnson, Associate Professor of Historical Theology and Wesleyan Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. Together they explore John Wesley’s profound theology of death and what it means to “die well” in a culture that often avoids the topic. From Wesley’s own struggles with the fear of death to the early Methodists’ reputation for triumphant dying, Dr. Johnson shares insights from her research and her new book, Triumphant Death: Grace, Holiness, and Death in the Theology of John Wesley. Guests Dr. Christine Johnson – Associate Professor of Historical Theology and Wesleyan Studies, Asbury Theological Seminary Hosted by Dr. Jessica LaGrone Resources & Mentions Triumphant Death: Grace, Holiness, and Death in the Theology of John Wesley – Available on Amazon and Wipf & Stock The Theology of John Wesley: A Theological Journey by Dr. Kenneth J. Collins – Available on Amazon Asbury Theological Seminary – asbury.to Asbury Theological Seminary Podcasts – asbury.to/podcasts Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views and opinions of Asbury Theological Seminary. The material and information presented here are for general information purposes only.

In this episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. Jessica LaGrone welcomes Dr. Chris Bounds, Professor of Theology at Asbury Theological Seminary, for a rich conversation on one of the most defining themes of the Wesleyan tradition: holiness. Together, they explore why holiness matters, how it is inseparable from love, and what it means to flourish in relationship with God and others. From unpacking the nature of holy love to addressing misconceptions about rules and legalism, Dr. Bounds offers a compelling vision of holiness as deeply relational and life-giving.  Guests Dr. Chris Bounds – Professor of Theology, Asbury Theological Seminary Hosted by Dr. Jessica LaGrone Resources & Mentions Asbury Theological Seminary – Website The Theology of Love by Mildred Bangs Wynkoop Asbury Theological Seminary Podcasts – Website

In this episode of It’s Elementary, Dr. David Watson and Dr. Jessica LaGrone welcome Rev. Andrew Thompson, Lead Pastor at First Methodist Tulsa. Together they explore Andrew’s remarkable journey through 25 years of ministry, his passion for global missions, and his deep commitment to intergenerational discipleship. From learning Spanish to preaching in Latin America, to mentoring younger pastors and staff, Andrew shares how the Holy Spirit continues to shape his calling. The conversation also reflects on the Asbury revival, the beauty of Jesus experienced in worship, and the importance of spiritual mothers and fathers in the life of the church. This episode blends theology, story, and practical ministry insights—perfect for anyone curious about how faith, mission, and mentoring intersect in today’s church. Guests Rev. Andrew Thompson – Lead Pastor, First Methodist Tulsa Hosted by Dr. David Watson and Dr. Jessica LaGrone Resources & Mentions First Methodist Tulsa – Website Asbury Theological Seminary – Website Asbury Theological Seminary Podcasts – Website  

Kick off Asbury Theological Seminary's It’s Elementary with a warm welcome from your hosts, Dr. David F. Watson and Dr. Jessica LaGrone! In this introductory episode, they share the heart behind the podcast, what you can expect in future conversations, and why we’re excited to journey with you. For more information about Asbury Theological Seminary, please visit: asburyseminary.edu