Episodios

  • TFL BLOG | Carosello, Little Wars and the Gospel in My Art Studio

    TFL BLOG | Carosello, Little Wars and the Gospel in My Art Studio
    May 12 2025
    8 m
  • Ongoing Legacy Gathering | April 8th, 2025

    Ongoing Legacy Gathering | April 8th, 2025
    May 8 2025
    1 h y 25 m
  • POD 049 | Following Jesus Through Middle School – This Time Tomorrow

    POD 049 | Following Jesus Through Middle School – This Time Tomorrow
    May 8 2025
    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
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    30 m
  • TFL BLOG | Live It Like It’s True

    TFL BLOG | Live It Like It’s True
    May 5 2025
    5 m
  • TFL BLOG | Living Water

    TFL BLOG | Living Water
    Apr 28 2025
    6 m
  • POD 048 | Exploring Virtue, Vice, and Spiritual Growth with Dr. Rebecca DeYoung

    POD 048 | Exploring Virtue, Vice, and Spiritual Growth with Dr. Rebecca DeYoung
    Apr 24 2025

    On this episode of theFormed.life Podcast, hosts Paul Brandes and Bill Gorman are joined by Dr. Rebecca DeYoung, a professor of philosophy and renowned author, to dive deep into the ancient world of virtues and vices—and why they’re still wildly relevant for us today. Together, they explore how concepts like pride, envy, gluttony, and vainglory aren’t just relics of the past, but powerful forces that shape our character, relationships, and spiritual growth in the present.
    Dr. DeYoung shares her own journey into the study of ethics and virtue theory, reflecting on how naming and understanding our “capital vices” can be the first step toward true transformation. The conversation highlights practical ways we can identify unhealthy patterns, intentionally pursue Christlike virtues, and invite God’s grace into our everyday lives. Whether you’re striving to break free from destructive habits or hoping to cultivate more humility, courage, or love, this conversation will challenge and encourage you with timeless wisdom and actionable insights for your faith journey.

    Bio:
    Rebecca DeYoung is a Professor of Philosophy at Calvin University, where she has taught for over two decades. Her research focuses on virtue ethics, the seven deadly sins, and spiritual formation, blending philosophical insight with Christian theological traditions. She is the author of several books, including Glittering Vices: A New Look at the Seven Deadly Sins and Their Remedies, which explores the relevance of ancient moral traditions for modern life. A sought-after speaker and writer, DeYoung contributes to various academic and spiritual formation communities, including Renovaré and the C.S. Lewis Institute. Her work is marked by a deep commitment to integrating intellectual rigor with spiritual growth.

    Quotes:
    The idea with spiritual disciplines is that you're intentionally engaging in practices of open handedness to the Spirit's transforming work. - Rebecca DeYoung

    3 Main Takeaways:

    1. Vices Aren’t Just Isolated Failures
    Dr. DeYoung highlights that vices become dangerous when they form persistent “grooves” in our lives—habits or patterns that shape who we’re becoming, rather than just one-off mistakes.

    2. True Growth Is About Spiritual Discipline, Not Just Self-Improvement
    The path to overcoming vices isn’t about “bootstrapping” or self-powered virtue. Instead, it’s about practicing spiritual disciplines—open-handed, receptive practices that invite the Holy Spirit’s transforming work.

    3. Virtues Lead Us Into Deeper Communion
    The ultimate goal isn’t just personal perfection, but being drawn into deeper relationship and communion—with God and others. Cultivating virtues isn’t about earning love, but responding to the unconditional love we have already received.

    Resources :
    - Renovaré (spiritual formation resources)
    - Conversatio.org (the fellowship of the Dallas Willard legacy)

    Timestamps:
    00:00 Descent from Virtue to Philosophy
    04:07 Discovering 'Pusillanimity': Medieval Imposter Syndrome
    07:15 "Protestant Views on Deadly Sins"
    11:35 "Embrace Spiritual Disciplines"
    15:37 "Self-Worth Through Habitual Lifestyles"
    18:06 Exploring Vainglory and Other Vices
    21:29 Confronting Sloth in Daily Life
    25:05 Publicity Challenges Vulnerability and Growth
    29:10 Money Management Anxiety
    30:25 Overcoming Excessive Attachment
    36:20 Gratitude as a Christian Virtue
    37:31 Slow Living and Inner Peace
    41:00 Vices of Self-Regard
    44:20 Scarcity Mindset and Envy
    48:31 Books, Skills, and Glacier Hikes

    Hashtags:
    #VirtuesAndVices #SpiritualFormation #Sanctification #ChristlikeCharacter #GlitteringVices #Vainglory #SpiritualDisciplines #ChristianVirtue #RebeccaDeYoung #theFormedLifePodcast

    Keywords:
    Virtue, vice, seven deadly sins, capital vices, sanctification, spiritual growth, spiritual disciplines, character formation, pride, envy, sloth, vainglory, humility, courage, love, gratitude, wisdom, justice, temperance, greed, gluttony, self-help, spiritual formation, grace, Protestant theology, transformation, Christian ethics, Aquinas, church tradition, spiritual healing
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    50 m
  • TFL BLOG | An Excerpt from Why Your Work Matters by Tom Nelson

    TFL BLOG | An Excerpt from Why Your Work Matters by Tom Nelson
    Apr 21 2025
    8 m
  • POD 047 | How Beholding Beauty Transforms Our Faith and Communities

    POD 047 | How Beholding Beauty Transforms Our Faith and Communities
    Apr 9 2025
    Welcome to another enlightening episode of theFormed.life podcast, where we delve into the profound intersection of beauty and faith. Today, our hosts Paul Brandes and Bill Gorman are joined by Dr. Jeff Hoffmeyer and guest host Gabe Coyle, as they navigate the compelling conversation around how beauty manifests in Christianity. They explore the role beauty plays in reflecting God's character, how it influences our everyday lives, and how embracing beauty can deepen our faith experience. From appreciating the grandeur of creation to understanding the beauty in art, relationships, and even the crucifixion, this discussion invites us to see God’s work in the unexpected. Whether you're an artist or just someone looking to find awe and wonder in the world, this episode will inspire you to recognize and integrate beauty into your spiritual journey. Join us as we dive deep into the transformative power of beauty and its ability to connect us with the divine.BioJeff Hoffmeyer is the Vice President of Advancement at the Denver Institute for Faith & Work. Prior to this role, Jeff served for 15 years as a pastor in various churches, including as Senior Pastor at La Cañada Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles and in interim and teaching pastor roles in Boulder and Fort Collins, Colorado, and Sacramento, California. He holds a Ph.D. in Theology from the Graduate Theological Union and a Master of Divinity from San Francisco Theological Seminary. He also has a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Colorado. Jeff's experience includes ministry, teaching, and leadership, with a focus on spiritual formation and discipleship. He also has experience in fundraising and development from his time in pastoral roles. 1 QuotesGod who became human, lived a human life, and then loved us to the end, even death on a cross — that event in history is beautiful, and redefines for us what beauty is. - Jeff Hoffmeyer3 Main TakeawaysBeauty and Faith Intersect: The episode explores how beauty and faith intersect in the Christian life, emphasizing that beauty can play a powerful role in deepening our understanding of God's goodness and drawing us closer to Him. Jeff Hoffmeyer highlights that beauty, often experienced through creation, art, and relationships, reflects the character of God and is an integral part of Christian theology.Community of the Beautiful: The discussion delves into the concept of the church as a "community of the beautiful." This refers to a community that beholds Jesus Christ and is transformed by Him. The speakers emphasize that we become what or whom we behold, and as a church community centered around Jesus, believers are called to reflect His beauty and love to the world.Beauty in Everyday Vocation: The episode highlights the importance of recognizing beauty in everyday work and vocation. It suggests that beauty can be found in the intricacies of our daily tasks and how faith and work are interconnected. By seeing our vocations as avenues to serve God and others, and by being sensitive to the cries for mercy around us, we can embody the beauty of God's kingdom in our work and communities.Resources BooksArt and Faith - Makoto FujimuraCulture Care - Makoto FujimuraEvery Good Endeavor - Tim KellerThe Glory of the Lord - Hans Urs von BalthasarEssay: "The State of Culture 2024" by Ken GoyaGrunewald's Crucifixion Painting – Matthias Grünewald (Referenced for visual art on theological themes)Teach Us to Pray Podcast – Jeff HoffmeyerFaith and Work Podcast – Denver Institute for Faith and WorkTimestamps:00:00 Beauty's Role in Faith Exploration06:22 "Becoming What We Behold"09:51 God's Glory: Christ Crucified13:32 Artists Illuminate Faith and Attention14:48 "Art's Place in Modern Culture"17:59 "Faith, Work, and Craftsmanship"23:24 The Cross and Unjust Suffering24:32 "Triumph of Divine Love"29:03 "Overcoming the World Through Christ"31:36 "The Church as Living Drama"35:57 "Podcasts on Faith, Work, Prayer"38:30 "Faith and Work Podcast Intro"41:22 Mako's Insightful Art Translations44:55 "Astounding Global Pop Star"Hashtags#ChristianBeauty #FaithAndArt #GodsGlory #CommunityOfTheBeautiful #TheologicalAesthetics #ArtAndVocation #BeautyInWorship #ScripturalImagination #FaithAndWork #theFormedLifePodcastKeywordsCongregations, Beauty, Christian life, Creation, Art, Theology, Atonement, Faith, Spiritual practice, Gospel, Worship, Incarnation, Redemption, Public theology, Community, Formed Life, Scripture, Attention, Artists, Vocation, Faith and work, Prayer, Culture care, Crucifixion, God's glory, New Testament, Drama, Overcoming, Tim Keller, Hans Urs von Baltasar~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~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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    46 m
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