theFormed.life

Introduction:On this episode of theFormed.life podcast, hosts Paul Brandes and Bill Gorman dive into the cultural phenomenon of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement, exploring why stories of romance and celebrity captivate us all. Joined by special guest Victoria Sawyer—a licensed professional counselor in Kansas City who is newly engaged herself—the conversation ranges from the whirlwind of reactions to Taylor and Travis’ big news, to deeper reflections on our society’s fascination with love, connection, and marriage.Together they unpack what makes certain love stories so compelling, how celebrity relationships shape our expectations, and why the desire for partnership runs so deep. With insights from Victoria’s counseling practice and a look at biblical perspectives on love and repair, the episode blends laughter, personal stories, and thoughtful commentary. Whether you’re a Swiftie, a Chiefs fan, or someone simply curious about why love stories matter, this episode invites you to consider what our attraction to romance reveals about our deepest longings—and how faith intersects with modern relationships.BioVictoria Sawyer, LPC, provides a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy for individuals and families in the Olathe and Kansas City area. With a strong belief in the power of connection and understanding, Victoria works with clients facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. She tailors her approach to meet the unique needs and strengths of each person, creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment.Victoria is skilled in a range of evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness strategies, and trauma-informed care. She is passionate about helping clients of all ages thrive, restore hope, and foster meaningful change in their lives. 3 Main TakeawaysOur Fascination with Celebrity Love Stories Reflects Deeper LongingsThe episode kicks off discussing the engagement of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, exploring why public romances captivate so many people. The hosts and guest reflect on how these high-profile relationships tap into universal human desires for love, connection, and celebration. The conversation highlights that our obsession with celebrity couples often points to our own hope for meaningful, lasting relationships.Healthy Relationships Require Intentional Communication and RepairVictoria Sawyer, a licensed professional counselor, shares insights from her practice with couples—emphasizing the importance of communication, feeling seen and heard, and especially the process of repairing after conflict. She points out that, whether it’s in celebrity relationships or our own, real connection comes from being intentional, learning from mistakes, and prioritizing repair over perfection. Approaches like the Gottman Method’s "attunement" are discussed as practical tools.Christian Faith Offers a Distinct Lens on Love and RomanceThroughout the episode, the conversation weaves in biblical perspectives on love, noting that our desire for deep relationships is rooted in being made in the image of a loving God. Victoria discusses how biblical principles—like responding gently in conflict, or the ultimate story of God’s covenant love—can help shape healthier relationships. The hosts also note that human love stories often mirror the larger story of God’s pursuit of relationship with us.Resources https://www.gottman.com/about/the-gottman-method/Timestamps:00:00 Celebrity Engagement: Reactions & Reflections06:29 Supportive Relationship's Public Evolution10:13 Celebrating Marriage's Goodness11:57 "Universal Fascination with Romantic Love"14:33 Enhancing Partner Communication Skills19:03 "Creating Secure Attachments"22:01 Soft Answers, Thoughtful Responses24:13 Integrative Christian Therapy Insights28:42 Desire for Fairy Tale Endings33:20 Pinspiration and Self-Comparison Struggles36:20 Lighthearted Wisdom: Balance and Enjoyment38:12 Hostage Negotiation FascinationHashtags#LoveAndRomance #CelebrityCulture #TaylorAndTravis #ChristianCounseling #ScripturalPerspective #RelationshipAdvice #AttachmentTheory #MarriageMatters #HealthyConnections #theFormedLifePodcast

Introduction:Welcome to theFormed.life! In this heartfelt episode, our hosts Nathan Miller and Gabe Coyle are joined by Dela Beebe, Chief Operating Officer at Christ Community, for the final conversation in our special three-part series exploring the lead senior pastor process and position at Christ Community.Drawing from over 15 years of shared history, the trio takes a walk down memory lane, reminiscing about the formative moments that have shaped their friendships, their callings, and the church itself. From humble beginnings in church planting and volunteer days, to the joys and challenges of executive leadership, Nathan, Dela, and Gabe share stories of camaraderie, authenticity, and faithfulness.Together, they reflect on the core values that define Christ Community—especially the commitment to "live before an audience of one" and remain focused on mission rather than chasing trends. As they navigate both mountaintop moments and gut-wrenching challenges, listeners are given a candid glimpse into the deep respect and trust that has developed among these leaders.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership transitions, teamwork, and the hope that anchors them as they step boldly into the church’s future, united in their purpose and love for Jesus. 3 Main Takeaways:Deep Roots and Relationships at Christ CommunityThe conversation reflects on the long-standing relationships between the hosts and guest, highlighting how their shared history at Christ Community has formed a strong foundation of trust, camaraderie, and mutual respect. Their memories reveal a journey of growing together through early campus launches, personal milestones, and professional development.Commitment to Mission Over FadsA major theme is how Christ Community has intentionally avoided chasing church trends or "fads." Instead, they've remained committed to their core mission—living "before an audience of one" (God). This steady focus has allowed the church to respond wisely to new opportunities and challenges, ensuring lasting impact rather than temporary popularity.The Beauty of Unified Leadership and Shared MissionThe team expresses gratitude for a leadership culture where everyone is "rowing in the same direction." Even in challenging seasons, there's a clear sense of unity and commitment to Jesus and the church's mission. The mutual support through both high and low moments is highlighted as a source of hope and encouragement for the future.Timestamps:00:00 Final Podcast on Pastor Role03:26 "Leadership Transition in Church Campuses"07:59 Christ Community's Consistent Mission Focus09:47 "Teamwork's Beauty and Hope"Keywords:Christ Community, lead senior pastor process, executive leadership team, church history, church planting, Olathe campus, staff roles, residency program, campus pastors, Brookside campus, Downtown campus, Shawnee campus, church transitions, leadership team, audience of one, mission-driven church, church fads, church culture, volunteer service, team collaboration, church memory sharing, authentic leadership, church growth, congregation development, church credit card, staff relationships, humility in leadership, leadership challenges, teamwork, church faithfulnessHashtags:#LeadershipTransition #ChurchHistory #FaithfulCommunity #MinistryLife #TeamworkInChrist #AuthenticLeadership #MissionFocused #SharedMemories #ChristianHope #theFormedLifePodcast~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~WEB: https://cckc.church/CONNECT: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/1304/responses/newIG: https://www.instagram.com/christcommunitykc/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/christcommunitykc

Introduction:Welcome to a special edition of theFormed.life podcast! In this episode, host Bill Gorman is joined by longtime colleague Tom Nelson and Gabe Coyle, who is currently the candidate for the next lead senior pastor of Christ Community. This conversation is part of a three-part series exploring the church’s pastoral succession process.Today, we take a deep dive into Gabe’s personal journey—starting with his upbringing in a loving, church-engaged family, his early calling to pastoral ministry, and the pivotal moments that shaped his passion to serve God's purposes. Gabe shares stories from his formative years, including what it was like growing up in a single-parent household, discovering his gifts in teaching and leading, and the key mentors who encouraged him along the way. Bill and Tom recall their earliest experiences of working with Gabe, highlighting both his character and the quirky stories—like Tom shedding blood to help Gabe move a couch!We also get a glimpse into Gabe’s family life, his marriage to Allie (involving quite the church gardener-meets-secretary love story), and life with their three vibrant children in Kansas City’s Longfellow neighborhood. Plus, there’s a revisit of the legendary couch—a symbol of lasting friendships and community.Whether you’re a member of Christ Community or curious about the heart behind pastoral leadership transitions, this episode offers warmth, authenticity, and plenty of laughter along the way. Join us as we get to know Gabe Coyle, his story, and the vision he brings for the future. 3 Main Takeaways:- Gabe Coyle’s Journey to Pastoral MinistryGabe shares his personal story of growing up in a loving but challenging single-parent home, his early engagement with church, and how the love and support he received from his church community was instrumental in his faith journey. Encouraged by pastors and mentors, he sensed a calling to pastoral ministry during his high school years, particularly through experiences in leadership roles and teaching God’s word.- The Power of Mentorship and CommunityBoth Gabe and Tom highlight the significant impact that mentors and community have had in forming their faith and leadership. Gabe speaks specifically about pastors who made time for him despite busy schedules and saw potential in him, shaping his calling and development. The story reinforces the importance of being seen, supported, and called into deeper service by others in the faith community.- Embracing the Whole Mission of GodGabe discusses how a shift in understanding the integration of faith and work (especially after hearing Tom Nelson speak) changed his perspective. He realized that work isn’t just a means of evangelism or supporting the “real” ministry, but a vital part of God’s mission. This perspective influenced his decision to join Christ Community and participate in their residency program, seeing it as a missing piece in his ministry formation.Timestamps:00:00 "Exploring Pastoral Succession Process"05:14 High School Chaplaincy Experience09:58 Church Campus Romance Begins12:57 Couch Pickup IncidentKeywords:pastoral succession, Christ Community Church, Gabe Coyle, Bill Gorman, Tom Nelson, pastoral residency, church leadership, elder chairman, executive leadership team, calling to ministry, vocational calling, church community, faith and work, pastoral mentorship, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Cedarville University, church upbringing, single parent family, church support, youth ministry, worship leader, chaplain experience, sermon teaching, mentorship, family life, Longfellow neighborhood, community involvement, Kansas City, church culture, church staff relationships, career discernmentHashtags:#PastoralSuccession #ChurchLeadership #CallingToMinistry #ChristianCommunity #FaithJourney #MentorshipMatters #FamilyFaith #SpiritualFormation #GospelLegacy #theFormedLifePodcast~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~WEB: https://cckc.church/CONNECT: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/1304/responses/newIG: https://www.instagram.com/christcommunitykc/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/christcommunitykc

Introduction:Welcome to a special edition of theFormed.life podcast from Christ Community! In this episode, host Paul Brandes sits down with Tom Nelson, the founding and current lead senior pastor, and Kevin Rockman, current elder chair and chair of the succession task force, for an honest and insightful conversation about the church’s upcoming leadership transition.With over 37 years of dedicated service, Tom shares how intentional succession planning has always been part of the church’s DNA—from developing a mission-centered leadership culture to launching a pastoral residency program designed to train both internal and external leaders. Kevin takes us behind the scenes of the recent, focused succession process, explaining how the task force was formed, how they considered both internal and external candidates, and why they ultimately felt confident in recommending Gabe as the next lead senior pastor.You’ll hear about the values and thoughtfulness guiding every step—from bylaws refreshment to financial health and doctrinal integrity—ensuring the church continues forward grounded in its core mission. Join us as we explore the heart, history, and hope steering Christ Community into its next chapter, and get an insider’s look at the team, process, and vision shaping the future of leadership within the church. 3 Main Takeaways:Intentional, Long-Term Succession PlanningSuccession has been a deliberate part of Christ Community’s leadership culture for many years. Tom Nelson, the founding and current lead senior pastor, emphasized that from the beginning, the church has focused on building leaders and preparing for future transitions. The pastoral residency program was highlighted as a key piece of this strategy—developing a pipeline not only for Christ Community, but for the broader church landscape.Thorough and Prayerful ProcessThe succession process was described as thorough, thoughtful, and deeply prayerful. Kevin Rockman, elder chair and head of the succession task force, shared details about assembling a diverse team, consulting internal and external advisors, and considering both internal and external candidates. Key organizational updates, including bylaws and financial health, were made to ensure a stable foundation for the transition. Ultimately, after much discernment and input, the task force and elders unanimously recommended Gabe as the next lead senior pastor.Confidence in Leadership Continuity and the Next GenerationAll speakers expressed deep gratitude and confidence in the continuity of leadership. The selection of Gabe Cole—who embodies the church’s DNA, mission, and vision—was enthusiastically affirmed. There was a strong sense of excitement for the future, both for Gabe’s unique gifts (such as his commitment to spiritual formation and leadership development) and the broader senior team. The episode ends with hopeful anticipation for what God will do through the next generation of leaders.Timestamps:00:00 Pastoral Succession Series Launch05:56 Leadership Transition Reflection08:59 Elder Team Succession Planning12:32 Multi-Site Church Leadership Search15:00 2025 Succession Plan Announcement17:40 Teamwork Over Individual Roles21:54 "Leadership Transition in Faith Community"24:12 "Succession and Leadership Continuity"Keywords:lead pastor succession, church leadership transition, Christ Community Church, pastoral residency program, elder board, succession planning, leadership development, organizational integrity, mission statement, church bylaws, financial sustainability, debt free church, EFCA (Evangelical Free Church of America), church doctrine, position papers, gender and church leadership, sexuality and marriage, leadership culture, biblical leadership, team leadership, internal candidates, external candidates, multi-site church, campus pastors, executive leadership team, Gabe Cole, leadership selection process, spiritual formation, staff continuity, future leadership visionHashtags:#LeadershipTransition #ChurchSuccession #SpiritualFormation #ChristCommunityChurch #GospelLeadership #TeamMinistry #BiblicalIntegrity #PastoralResidency #FaithfulStewardship #theFormedLifePodcast~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~WEB: https://cckc.church/CONNECT: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/1304/responses/newIG: https://www.instagram.com/christcommunitykc/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/christcommunitykc

Introduction:Welcome to theFormed.life podcast! In this special episode, we share a significant announcement in the life of Christ Community Church. After 37 years of faithful service, founding pastor Tom Nelson is preparing to pass the baton to a new generation of leadership. Joined by Andy Root and Gabe Coyle, the episode celebrates Gabe’s unanimous recommendation by the Elder Board to become the next lead senior pastor. With reflections on the church’s legacy, the importance of spiritual formation, and a vision for building deeper people—not just a bigger church—this conversation invites you into a pivotal moment of transition and hope for the future. Whether you’ve been part of Christ Community for years or are just tuning in, you’ll hear firsthand from those at the heart of this inspiring next chapter. 3 Main Takeaways:Leadership Transition Announcement: Tom Nelson, the founding pastor, announces that he will be passing the baton to a new generation of leadership at Christ Community Church. After 37 years of dedicated service, he shares the news that the Elder Board has unanimously recommended Gabe Coyle to be the next lead senior pastor.Strong Endorsement for Gabe Coyle: Both Tom Nelson and Andy Root express their excitement about Gabe Coyle stepping into this new role. Gabe has been part of the church for over a decade and already serves at the downtown campus, giving him deep familiarity with the church’s mission and culture. The continuity provided by his leadership, along with the senior team and campus pastors, is highlighted as key for the church's ongoing mission.Focus on Spiritual Formation: There’s a strong emphasis that the role of lead senior pastor at Christ Community is about much more than growing the size of the church; it’s about nurturing spiritual depth and formation—building “deeper people.” Tom Nelson specifically underscores that a pastor's primary calling is to be a “gardener of the soul,” shaping the spiritual health of both the congregation and themselves.Overall, this episode marks an exciting and hopeful transition period for the church, centered on faithfulness, legacy, and a renewed commitment to its core mission.Resources mentioned in this episode:A Long Obedience in the Same Direction - Eugene PetersonKeywords:Christ Community Church, Kansas City, pastoral transition, lead senior pastor, Gabe Coyle, Tom Nelson, Elder Board, succession, church leadership, spiritual formation, church mission, continuity, campus pastors, downtown campus, church family, legacy, stewardship, Christian leadership, values, mission, sound doctrine, long obedience, Eugene Peterson, spiritual growth, deeper people, church team, prayerful work, church era, voting, transition date, new generationHashtags:#LeadershipTransition #SpiritualFormation #ChurchLegacy #FaithfulLeadership #GabeCoyle #TomNelson #ChurchFamily #ChristCommunity #PastoralSuccession #theFormedLifePodcast~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~WEB: https://cckc.church/CONNECT: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/1304/responses/newIG: https://www.instagram.com/christcommunitykc/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/christcommunitykc

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Welcome to theFormed.life podcast! Today, with Dr. Richard Averbeck, Old Testament expert from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, we're exploring the richness of the Exodus. Join hosts Paul Brandes, Bill Gorman, and Jonathan Neef as we discuss its enduring themes of deliverance, God's faithfulness, presence, the law at Sinai, God's name, and Pharaoh's hardened heart, and how this pivotal story informs our spiritual lives today.Bio:Dr. Richard E. Averbeck is a distinguished scholar in Old Testament and Semitic Languages. He holds the title of Professor Emeritus of Old Testament and Semitic Languages at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS) and has also served as a Senior Research Professor at TEDS. Additionally, he has been a visiting professor at Odesa Theological Seminary in Ukraine and previously taught at Dallas Theological Seminary. His academic focus includes the Pentateuch, ancient Near Eastern history and languages, Old Testament criticism, Hebrew, and biblical counseling. He is a respected author and speaker, contributing significantly to the understanding of the Old Testament and its relevance for today.Quotes:God's faithfulness to His people, demonstrated by His covenant with Abraham in Genesis, continues in Exodus as that family becomes a nation. He heard their groaning because of His commitment to the covenant He made. - Dr. Richard E. Averbeck3 Main Takeaways:God’s Faithfulness and Presence are Central to ExodusThe conversation highlighted that a driving theme of Exodus is God’s unwavering faithfulness to His people, even when they falter. Dr. Averbeck emphasized that God remains committed to His covenant and is continually present with His people, a truth powerfully illustrated in the story of Moses and the burning bush (“I will be with you”/the significance of God’s name). This theme of God’s abiding presence is foundational—not just for understanding Exodus, but for grasping the entire biblical story, including its fulfillment in Jesus as “God with us.”The Structure of the Law: Grace First, Guidance FollowsDr. Averbeck pointed out that God rescues Israel from slavery before giving them the law—deliverance precedes instruction. The law is not a path to earning God’s favor, but guidance for living as redeemed people. This pattern closely mirrors the gospel dynamic: salvation by grace leads to a life shaped by God’s guidance, not the other way around. The conversation also touched on how the law, including its focus on justice (like debt slavery), reveals God’s character and heart for His people.Exodus Shapes Identity, Worship, and the Story of RedemptionThe hosts and Dr. Averbeck discussed how the story of Exodus isn’t just an ancient tale—it’s a paradigm for understanding God’s work in the world and in individual lives. Themes of deliverance, identity as God’s people, and worship (including the tabernacle as God’s ongoing presence) profoundly shape both Israel’s self-understanding and that of Christians today. The Exodus sets the trajectory for the entire Bible, echoed in Jesus’ mission and continued in Christian worship and life today.Resources:The Ten Commandments (Film) - Cecil B. DeMilleThe Prince of Egypt (Film) - DreamWorksExodus: Gods and Kings (Film) - Ridley ScottChosen (TV series)Exodus (JPS Torah Commentary) - Nahum Sarna: https://a.co/d/eqNXoLgA Commentary on the Book of Exodus - Umberto Cassuto: https://a.co/d/a2vZlyxThe Old Testament Law for the Life of the Church: Reading the Torah in the Light of Christ - Dr. Richard Averbeck: https://a.co/d/7xYFt2kTimestamps:00:00 Exodus in Popular Media05:16 God's Faithfulness Throughout Genesis-Exodus09:01 "Moses' Reluctance and Divine Assurance"11:18 Balancing Academics and Spiritual Growth16:01 Messiah's Presence in Scripture19:26 Divine Guidance and Presence20:44 Exodus: Tabernacle and Deliverance24:09 God's Ownership of His People30:09 Divine Purpose in Pharaoh's Heart33:42 Recommended Study Bibles36:41 "God With Us: Scripture's Promise"38:01 "Form Life Podcast Resources"Hashtags#ExodusStory #GodsFaithfulness #SpiritualFormation #BiblicalIdentity #DivinePresence #OldTestamentLaw #CovenantPeople #GraceAndRedemption #DrAverbeck #theFormedLifePodcast

Introduction:Welcome to another episode of theFormed.life podcast! In today’s conversation, host Paul Brandes is joined by Brent, student pastor at the Leawood campus, and Anna, a thoughtful seventh grader from Christ Lutheran School in Kansas City. Together, they explore what it’s really like to live as a middle school student in 2024 while following Jesus. Anna shares candidly about her daily school life, the joys and challenges of adjusting to a new and smaller environment, and the significance of forming deeper connections with classmates.The conversation dives deep into the realities students face: discovering belonging, navigating brokenness in relationships, and how faith can transform even the most ordinary moments—yes, even homework and lunch tables—into opportunities for growth and praise. With insights from Brent on what today’s students are craving most, and encouragement from Anna on finding purpose by keeping God at the center of daily routines, this episode invites listeners to recognize the redemptive possibilities hidden in the rhythms of school life. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or someone curious about the role faith can play in our formative years, you’ll find hope and inspiration in this honest and hope-filled discussion.BioAnna is a thoughtful and curious student who found her seventh grade religion classes especially engaging and relatable. While studying books like Lee Strobel’s The Case for Faith and preparing to read The Case for Christ, Anna has developed a strong interest in exploring deep questions about faith—questions such as why God allows suffering and why church history can be troubled. Through reading and classroom discussions, Anna gained new insights and enjoys pausing to talk through challenging ideas with classmates, eager to find meaningful answers and understanding.QuotesYou don't have all the answers. You don't have to know what that looks like every single day. That's part of the process of growing up. And secondly, remembering the fact that Jesus knows what it means to grow up. He was a middle schooler at some point. He was a high schooler. He knows the tensions of what it is to have to go and learn and also work and discover the beauty of how God has wired you. He cares deeply about you. He knows what it's like to grow up. - Brent Bovitz3 Main TakeawaysSchool as Meaningful Work with God’s PurposeThe conversation explores how students can view their daily school life, not just as a repetitive routine of homework and classes, but as significant work where they can honor God—even in the “boring times.” Anna shares how keeping God in mind transforms her perspective, motivating her to praise Him through the everyday, echoing the message from 1 Corinthians 15:58 that her work “in the Lord is not in vain.”Relationships and Belonging are Central in the School ExperienceBoth Anna and Brent discuss the importance of relationships among students. With a small class size, Anna finds joy and support in her classmates, but also notes the challenges of belonging and exclusion—especially for new students. Their reflections highlight that while school can be a place of brokenness (like cliques or feeling left out), it also offers the chance to extend kindness and create a culture of inclusion, especially by involving younger students during recess.Redemption in Everyday Interactions and Formation Through ServiceA significant focus is on “redemption”—how students like Anna actively seek to bring about positive change. She shares practical ways she tries to include others and support younger grades, inspired by Jesus’ example and teachings. The hosts emphasize that these small acts of kindness and presence carry lifelong impact, helping form both Anna’s character and the broader school culture for future generations. The power of noticing God’s opportunities and serving others—even as a seventh grader—is celebrated as a hopeful and transformative force.Resources The Case for Faith - Lee Strobel: https://a.co/d/2flhXzDThe Case for Christ - Lee Strobel: https://a.co/d/3j97uEJTimestamps:00:00 School Life with God's Purpose04:12 "School as Work: A Student's Perspective"08:44 Seventh & Eighth Grade Religion Studies11:15 Navigating School Transitions and Exclusion13:59 "Striving for Belonging Together"16:17 Encouraging Young Kids' Belonging19:32 Encouragement for Young Christians25:11 Prayer for Anna's New School Journey25:57 "Alternate Life Paths Question"29:20 Podcast Appreciation and Episode ReferenceHashtags#StudentFaith #VocationAndCalling #ChristianEducation #MiddleSchoolLife #RedemptionStory #BelongingAndCommunity #ClassicalSchooling #SpiritualEncouragement #YouthMinistry #theFormedLifePodcast