If God is sovereign, why should we pray? In this episode we dive into why prayer is not wasted effort but the very means God uses to accomplish His purposes. Watch as we share biblical insights, practical encouragement, and personal stories about the struggles and joys of prayer. Whether you’ve wrestled with discipline, feelings, or doubts about prayer’s effectiveness, this discussion will remind you that true communion with God is both our duty and delight. Download your free PDF copy of J.C...
Why does the modern church struggle so much with eschatology, the study of the last days? Too often, conversations become sensational, focused more on prophecy charts and news cycles than on Christ Himself. In this episode, we unpack why every generation thinks their time is the end, the dangers of date-setting, and how fear-based teaching erodes trust. If you enjoyed this episode, consider liking this video and subscribing. If you'd like to watch this episode, click here. If you have any que...
Gen Z is flocking to Eastern Orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism, drawn by cathedrals, incense, and a sense of tradition they don’t find in modern evangelical churches. But what’s really behind this trend, and what dangers should we be aware of? At the end of the day, Christianity is not about icons, rituals, or even historical grandeur, it’s about the finished work of Jesus Christ. The gospel gives us full assurance of salvation by grace alone through faith alone, and nothing can be added to tha...
Most churches today avoid it. Jesus commanded it. So why is church discipline almost nonexistent in modern Christianity? In this episode, we unpack the biblical, historical, and pastoral case for church membership and church discipline, two non-negotiables if we’re going to call ourselves a true New Testament church. From Matthew 18 to the Belgic Confession, from early church persecution to modern Lone Ranger Christianity, we trace how the church lost its grip on one of Christ’s most loving ...
In this episode of Christianly, we answer your most talked-about questions, from the legacy of John MacArthur to the mystery of the Nephilim. We discuss how Christians should respond to government mandates, what pastoral authority really means, how to stay united with believers who hold different theological views, how to foster meaningful Lord’s Day worship at home, and how to disciple singles without treating them like second-tier Christians. Plus, ever wondered what Pastor Tony’s Sunday co...
What does the Bible really say about money, generosity, and prosperity? In this podcast, we examine the theology behind popular offering declarations, the prosperity gospel, and even the poverty gospel. What should we make of teachings from Bethel, Piper, or Platt? Is it wrong to want financial blessing? Does God call all believers to give everything away? Join us as we explore Jesus' teachings, Paul's principles, and what faithful stewardship looks like in a culture obsessed with both wealth...
We unpack the most life-changing books we've ever read—from Spurgeon’s sermons to Tozer, Keller, Sproul, and even Navy SEALs. Whether you're new to theology or deep in ministry, these books will challenge, convict, and stir your soul. 1. Theological & Doctrinal Books The Knowledge of the Holy – A.W. Tozer Holiness of God – R.C. Sproul Knowing God – J.I. Packer The Gospel According to Jesus – John MacArthur The Gospel According to the Apostles – John MacArthur Ashamed of the Gospel – John...
Church leadership isn’t about chasing a platform, it’s about humility, submission, and faithfulness. In this episode, we explore what it truly means to be called, how to grow in character, and why developing within a local church matters far more than bouncing from one opportunity to the next. If you enjoyed this episode, consider liking this video and subscribing. If you'd like to watch this episode, click here. If you have any questions or topics you would like us to discuss on the show, me...
Is it possible to be bold in truth without becoming divisive? In this episode, we explore the roots of Christian fundamentalism and where it went wrong, not in its theology, but in tone and application. From doctrinal triage to cultural engagement, the conversation traces how conviction can turn into isolation when discernment is traded for dogma. Learn why biblical faithfulness doesn’t require angry separatism, and how to stand firm without burning bridges. If you enjoyed this episode,...
Most Christians deeply love Jesus… but many will still go their entire lives without ever sharing the gospel. Why? In this episode of Christianly, we dive into the real reasons believers stay silent. From fear of man and bad theology to a lack of worldview training, we explore why evangelism often stalls at friendship, and never reaches the finish line of gospel proclamation. If you enjoyed this episode, consider liking this video and subscribing. If you'd like to watch this episode, click he...
Is daily Bible reading a necessary spiritual discipline, or is it just legalism? Many believers struggle to maintain a daily habit of Scripture reading, but what if skipping time in the Word leads to a distorted view of God? What if neglecting the Bible leaves us spiritually weak, vulnerable to deception, and making life-altering mistakes? In this episode, we tackle: Does God want us to read our Bible every day? If you enjoyed this episode, consider liking this video and subscribing. If you'd...
In this episode of Christianly, Pastor Tony and Pastor Dean dive deep into the ongoing “worship wars” inside the church. From the regulative principle to LED screens, from suits and ties to jumping in unison in remote villages, they unpack what really matters in corporate worship. If you enjoyed this episode, consider liking this video and subscribing. If you'd like to watch this episode, click here. If you have any questions or topics you would like us to discuss on the show, message us on I...
In this episode of Christianly, we tackle the ongoing debate about church size and structure. While large churches have existed since the early church (think Jerusalem, Spurgeon, and even Antioch), the modern megachurch often follows an attractional model—raising concerns about biblical fidelity, church growth methods, and spiritual maturity. If you enjoyed this episode, consider liking this video and subscribing. If you'd like to watch this episode, click here. If you have any question...
As churches grow, dynamics inevitably change. What once felt like an intimate, tight-knit community can become a structured, system-driven congregation. But is this a bad thing? In this episode of Christianly, we dive into the challenges and blessings of church growth. If you enjoyed this episode, consider liking this video and subscribing. If you'd like to watch this episode, click here. If you have any questions or topics you would like us to discuss on the show, message us on I...
What makes a preacher truly effective? Is it talent, charisma, or something deeper? In this episode of the Christianly Podcast, Dean Defuria and Tony Wood discuss the lost art of biblical preaching—what it means to preach with authenticity, conviction, and faithfulness to Scripture. They explore the qualifications of a preacher, the dangers of seeking influence over holiness, and the importance of expository preaching. Why do so many people with social media followings suddenly be...
In this episode of Christianly, Tony Wood, Teaching Pastor of Mission Bible Church Costa Mesa, and Dean Defuria, Executive Pastor of Mission Bible, discuss how social media has given Christians an incredible opportunity to share the gospel, but it comes with significant challenges. In this episode, we explore the spiritual cost of chasing the algorithm and how it can harm both pastors and congregants. Are influencers unintentionally competing with local church leaders? Is the pursuit of follo...
In this episode of Christianly, Tony Wood, Teaching Pastor of Mission Bible Church Costa Mesa, and Dean Defuria, Executive Pastor of Mission Bible, explore what it truly means to live out the Great Commission today. They discuss the challenge of following Christ in a culture that’s increasingly disconnected from its Christian roots, using Francis Schaeffer's "upper story vs. lower story" framework to show how theology impacts every part of life—from society to personal relationships. The con...
In this episode of Christianly, Tony Wood, Teaching Pastor of Mission Bible Church Costa Mesa, and Dean Defuria, Executive Pastor of Mission Bible, discuss what it truly means to live "Christianly." They dive into the heart of how Christians can think, process, and act in alignment with their faith, addressing the balance between grace and holy living, avoiding legalism, and transforming theology into practical application. Drawing from Pauline Epistles, Puritan wisdom, and modern pastoral e...