Ep 274: Who's really discipling the church? with Ricky Arnel

·59 min·5 clips

Shanda and Ricky challenge the assumption that going to church automatically means you're being discipled as a Christian.

Shanda introduces the episode by framing a discussion on discipleship and cultural influence with guest Ricky Arnel, whom she met at the Cross-Examined Instructors Academy. Ricky shares his background as a youth pastor in South Florida with 10 years of experience and two young children. He explains his journey into apologetics, inspired by philosopher Paul Copan during his undergrad at Palm Beach Atlantic University. The conversation delves into Barna statistics revealing only 17% of youth pastors in the U.S. have a biblical worldview. Ricky argues that everyone is being discipled, intentionally or passively, often by digital devices like phones. He critiques the misconception that church attendance alone equates to discipleship, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches. Ricky describes tailoring youth ministry to different student categories: non-Christians, nominal believers, and committed Christians. He advocates for intergenerational ministry and multiple weekly touchpoints beyond traditional church hours. The hosts discuss the dangers of consumeristic language in churches, such as 'being fed,' which fosters passive attitudes. Ricky highlights the parable of the sower to stress active listening to God's word. They address the church's role in combating syncretism, where people mix beliefs from different worldviews like Christianity and New Age practices. Ricky shares anecdotes from Q&A sessions with students, revealing common questions about combining faith with crystals or zodiac signs. He notes that syncretism often arises from passive belief formation based on comfort rather than deep thought. The episode concludes with Ricky urging churches to adopt holistic discipleship that engages heart, mind, and strength, warning that indifference poses a greater threat than hostility to the church's relevance.

As heard by us

Church attendance is not the same thing as discipleship, and the episode keeps making that case.

Shanda Fulbright and Ricky Arnel frame the conversation around discipleship, church influence, and the gap between showing up and being formed.

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Why you'd press play

If church attendance feels like enough, this conversation will gently ruin that convenience.

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