Randy Alcorn

How real is heaven to you? Even as believers, is heaven just a concept that we read or study in the Word rather than a real, ultimate destination? We read about joy and hope God infuses within us towards, not only heaven, but also to carry us through the ups and downs of this life. Do we truly LIVE this reality out for others to see? Pastor Brian Brodersen considers such truths in a discussion with author, Randy Alcorn. Having written over fifty books, pastored a church at one time and now directing the non-profit, Eternal Perspective Ministries, Randy shares the need to remember that true happiness and hope in heaven is a real thing that matters.

Best of Series: Randy Alcorn on the Reality of Heaven and Happiness

Gerry Breshears

On this "Best Of" episode, Dr. Gerry Breshears of Western Seminary shares two theological trends that have caught his attention. One has been that of local pastors coming alongside to serve their city in the name of Jesus. He also discusses "Theological Tribalism," which has become a trend of "meanness" amongst believers in various evangelical groups. Pastor Brian and Dr. Breshears conclude by talking about the cohort Dr. Breshears guides and disciples through a specific program at Western Seminary for men in ministry.

Best Of Series Dr. Gerry Breshears on Theology and Training Men in Ministry

Paul Tripp

On this "Best Of" episode, Dr. Paul Tripp and Pastor Brian Brodersen discuss that no one is ever a “grace graduate.” So often those in pastoral ministry experience graceless living because they can "Improperly equate biblical knowledge, theological ability and success in ministry as spiritual maturity.” We hope you are encouraged by this episode.

Best of Series: Dr. Paul Tripp on the Depth of God's Grace

Matt Redman

Enjoy this “Best Of” episode with music artist, Matt Redman, known for “10,000 Reasons,” “Heart of Worship” and more. Matt shares experiences and lessons he learned from God’s call in worship ministry that present a value to all believers.

Best Of Series: Matt Redman on the “Heart of Worship”

On this “Best Of” episode, Pastor Brian Brodersen and toxicologist Dr. Lu Wing discuss legalized Marijuana, the cultural questions it creates and a healthy perspective for Christians.

Best Of Series: Marijuana and Christians

Cheryl Brodersen

On this “Best Of” series, Cheryl Brodersen joins Pastor Brian Brodersen in a discussion on the role of pastor’s wife. Cheryl addresses terms like “identity” versus “role,” and shares some encouraging thoughts for women and men. Enjoy this special highlight from “Things That Matter!”

Best of Series: Cheryl Brodersen on the Role of a Pastor's Wife

David Guzik

Enjoy this episode of “Things That Matter” as Pastor David Guzik talks with Pastor Brian Brodersen on Bible exposition, studying the scriptures and Bible commentaries. David and Brian encourage both pastors/Bible teachers, and by extension all believers, to simply keep digging into the Word and delight in it as Psalm 119 proclaims. Enjoy David’s commentary and other resources at enduringword.com.

Enjoy this episode of “Things That Matter” as Pastor David Guzik talks with Pastor Brian Brodersen on Bible exposition, studying the scriptures and Bible commentaries. David and Brian encourage both pastors/Bible teachers, and by extension all believers, to simply keep digging into the Word and delight in it as Psalm 119 proclaims. Enjoy David’s commentary and other resources at <a href="http://enduringword.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">enduringword.com</a>.

Best of Series: David Guzik on Bible Study

Rick Warren

Join us on this “Best of Series” as we highlight key episodes from “Things That Matter.”   Pastor Rick Warren of Saddleback Church addresses the controversies that have surrounded his life and ministry such as “Chrislam,” his involvement with the “New Age,” as well as the misconceptions circling His own personal faith in Jesus!

Best of Series: Rick Warren & the Controversies Surrounding His Life & Ministry

Pastors Brian Brodersen, John Hwang and Richard Cimino conclude their pastoral series with a discussion on the power and importance of prayer, and the place for faith in the pastor’s life. Thanks for joining this miniseries on pastoral ministry. Stay tune for more “Things That Matter!”

Things That Matter: Faith & Prayer as a Pastor

In this pastoral series with pastors Brian Brodersen, Richard Cimino and John Hwang,   we have been breaking down the role of a pastor. Today we focus on the pastor as a leader. How is leadership defined in ministry? Brian, Richard and John share key points on this episode of “Things That Matter.”

Things That Matter: The Pastor as a Leader

“Things That Matter,” features insightful conversations between Pastor Brian Brodersen and various guests from around the world on important topics in theology, ministry, current events and culture.

I used to attend Calvary Costa Mesa and must state and reiterate that I LOVE Pastor Chuck. I learned about the love of Jesus and the bible from his teaching verse-by-verse, but I am beyond thrilled with where Brian (and Cheryl) seem to be going with CCCM. I especially like his interview most recently with Lee Strobels son (shame on me for not remembering his name!!) but its another transformative, biblical discussion and I am looking forward to more of the same.

Excellent

Good to hear Rick put sensible words to the craziness out there. Hear say and rumors. Love the few words needed to answer what our purpose is. To show Jesus in our words and actions..

Wonderful interview

Things That Matter

Studying the Bible: How do we do that? Where do we start? How do we understand the historical context of the Bible? Andy Deane, Director of Calvary Chapel Bible College in Murrieta, CA, shares insight on approaching a study time in God’s Word without feeling overwhelmed. Enjoy this episode as Andy shares different ways to study the Bible with the ultimate blessing of deepening our relationship with Jesus. Andy has also written a book titled, “Learn to Study the Bible,” where he gives 40 different approaches to study God’s Word. Andy closes by sharing exciting news of CCBC Murrieta obtaining accreditation in the near future!

TTM S03E08: Bible Study: Practical Approaches to Study, Meditate and Grow in Understanding God’s Word 

Enjoy this episode of “Things That Matter” as host Pastor Brian Brodersen shares many laughs with guest comedian Nazareth Rizkallah. Having grown up in the Gaza Strip and moved to the U.S. as a young man, Nazareth shares his testimony that brought Him to salvation. He uniquely provides insight to the tension between Israel and Palestine and how the Lord opened the opportunity to minster to refugee families through the ministry he leads called Voice of the Refugees. Nazareth closes by sharing many stories of God miraculously changing his situation and has since written a book titled, “Hope in 24 Hours” that is based on these experiences.

TTM S3E07: Redemption, Comedy, the Gaza Strip and the Refugee Crisis

Welcome to season three of Things That Matter. We pray that you are encouraged as we start a new topic-driven season. We begin our first episode with Pastor Brian Brodersen interviewing Patrick Johnstone. Patrick is the author of Operation World, which is a compilation of data on missions from around the globe. This book provides valuable information as a reference and guide for prayer. Patrick expounds on the origin of Operation World and provides a missional-focused presentation of modern Christianity and modern missions. He says, “The only ministry left to us to make an impact is to deeply influence a handful of people to become effective leaders in their own culture."

TTM S3E01: "Operation World" & The State of Modern Missions

Enjoy the top episodes from last season of "Things That Matter," as we near season 4 premiering this fall! This episode features guest comedian Nazareth Rizkallah as he shares his testimony, insight to the tension between Israel and Palestine, and how the Lord opened the opportunity to minster to refugee families through the ministry he leads called Voice of the Refugees.

TTM Season 3 Top Episodes: Nazareth

As we close season three of “Things That Matter,” we are excited to have Pastor Bill Buffington of Calvary Chapel Inglewood share on the vision and ministry happening in Inglewood, CA, and reaching young people in his inner-city community.

TTMS3E9: Knowing & Reaching Your Community

Engaging the culture is vital as a believer to listen and understand the struggles of the community as we share the gospel message and seek to be available to minister. Pastor Tommy Cota of Hope Alive Church in Santa Ana, CA, shares his experience with God opening doors in Santa Ana through school programs like Released Time Education, a contract with the Department of Education and more that have led to connections and relationships with people in the community. He gives a powerful message that proclaims the need for continual engagement and ministry to the inner cities.

TTM S3E04: Engaging Inner City Culture

As a pastoral leader, have you thought about retirement, the future of your church, succession? On this episode of “Things That Matter,” Pastor Brian Brodersen talks with Pastor Dave Rolph of Calvary Chapel Pacific Hills, CA, about pastoral transitions and succession of ministry. Dave shares that those in pastoral leadership should not be afraid to plan for retirement and ignore the practicality of life until Jesus' imminent return. While we look forward to eternity, Dave invites pastors to consider the future of their local church. “A church has always been identified by the community in church history, not by its pastor,” Dave shares. He then closes by reminding leaders that succession and transition does not mean they can no longer participate in ministry. Rather, it opens opportunities for other projects in ministry that could not happen if tied by that leadership role.

TTM S3E05: A Conversation on Pastoral Succession 

Welcome to season 4 of “Things That Matter!” We are excited to share many new episodes as host Pastor Brian Brodersen discusses current events, cultural trends and other things that matter to Christians.  On this episode, Pastor Ed Hickey of Calvary Chapel London in Ontario, Canada, discusses the need for ministry leaders and the Church to be available for the “next opportunity.” Ed planted a church in the Sunshine Coast in British Columbia, Canada, and pastored there for 15 years until he felt a conviction of being too comfortable spiritually. Since then, Ed has planted a new church in Ontario and has established many ministry connections in other parts of the world, including The Paul Initiative. Visit thepaulinitiative.com for more information. Through prayer, fasting and holding onto God’s promises, Ed has witnessed so many divine appointments because he chose to take the “next opportunity” before the Lord.

Welcome to season 4 of “Things That Matter!” We are excited to share many new episodes as host Pastor Brian Brodersen discusses current events, cultural trends and other things that matter to Christians.  On this episode, Pastor Ed Hickey of Calvary Chapel London in Ontario, Canada, discusses the need for ministry leaders and the Church to be available for the “next opportunity.” Ed planted a church in the Sunshine Coast in British Columbia, Canada, and pastored there for 15 years until he felt a conviction of being too comfortable spiritually. Since then, Ed has planted a new church in Ontario and has established many ministry connections in other parts of the world, including The Paul Initiative. Visit <a href="http://thepaulinitiative.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thepaulinitiative.com</a> for more information. Through prayer, fasting and holding onto God’s promises, Ed has witnessed so many divine appointments because he chose to take the “next opportunity” before the Lord.

Things That Matter: Moving Out of Your Ministry Comfort Zone & The Paul Initiative

Welcome to a new season of “Things That Matter!” We look forward to sharing many discussions on theology, culture and current events!    Host Pastor Brian Brodersen is joined with Dr. Ed Stetzer of Wheaton College and “Christianity Today,” as they discuss the rise of social media and its effect on evangelicalism, particularly in American culture. Dr. Stetzer has written a book, “Christians in the Age of Outrage” and highlights his studies in this episode you will not want to miss!

Things That Matter: Wisdom & Grace in the Age of Outrage

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” host Pastor Brian Brodersen is in studio with Sean McDowell, apologist and author of several books including coauthor of the latest edition of “Evidence That Demands A Verdict” with renowned father, Josh McDowell. Brian and Sean discuss thoughts on “truth” and how to reflect the truth of God’s word in a post-Christian world. From sharing concerns that Christian parents have toward their children’s faith, to the Church losing moral authority in the culture, Sean covers various aspects in this discussion on truth. Visit seanmcdowell.org to learn more about Sean’s speaking engagements, books and resources.

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” host Pastor Brian Brodersen is in studio with Sean McDowell, apologist and author of several books including coauthor of the latest edition of “Evidence That Demands A Verdict” with renowned father, Josh McDowell. Brian and Sean discuss thoughts on “truth” and how to reflect the truth of God’s word in a post-Christian world. From sharing concerns that Christian parents have toward their children’s faith, to the Church losing moral authority in the culture, Sean covers various aspects in this discussion on truth. Visit <a href="http://seanmcdowell.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">seanmcdowell.org</a> to learn more about Sean’s speaking engagements, books and resources.

Things That Matter: Truth in a Post-Christian World

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” Thomas Terry of Humble Beast Records addresses the current state of our culture, as creativity is idolized and worshiped. Thomas stresses the need for the church to invest into creatives, disciple them and influence them toward a biblical worldview. In doing so, they may be equipped to use their gifts for the furtherance of the gospel. Learn more about Humble Beast Records and their vision to disciple, encourage and engage with creatives at humblebeast.com.

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” Thomas Terry of Humble Beast Records addresses the current state of our culture, as creativity is idolized and worshiped. Thomas stresses the need for the church to invest into creatives, disciple them and influence them toward a biblical worldview. In doing so, they may be equipped to use their gifts for the furtherance of the gospel. Learn more about Humble Beast Records and their vision to disciple, encourage and engage with creatives at <a href="http://humblebeast.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">humblebeast.com</a>.

Things That Matter: Discipling, Engaging and Influencing Creatives

Hear from Pastor Ray Dash of the Rock Christian Fellowship in Newark, New Jersey, as he talks about his story of salvation, the ministry God led Ray to, and his petition for you to not give up in ministry. Have you felt God’s call stir within you? As God calls and leads you, go!

Things That Matter: Going Where God Calls You to Go

Serving in a highly dense population with a huge emphasis of the LGBT community, Justin Thomas of Calvary of the Hill in Seattle, Washington, shares on this episode of “Things That Matter” that so often the Church can tend to people with certain issues but ignore others if the issue is too “messy.” Justin reminds us that we are doing life alongside a variety of people who all need to know the love of Christ.

Things that Matter: Doing Church in the LGBT Community

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” guest Pastor Daniel Im of NewChurches.com and author of the book, No Silver Bullets, discusses the approach of systems when speaking on ministry as the Church. Daniel gives examples of natural systems such as a root system in a forest, the solar system, and even systems in our own human anatomy that leads to his point of how God clearly likes systems. He gives an example of spiritual maturity, and how it can be defined differently amongst the Church that is useful not only for ministry leaders, but for individual believers as well. Check out Daniel’s website and his book for more information! NewChurches.com

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” guest Pastor Daniel Im of <a href="http://NewChurches.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NewChurches.com</a> and author of the book, No Silver Bullets, discusses the approach of systems when speaking on ministry as the Church. Daniel gives examples of natural systems such as a root system in a forest, the solar system, and even systems in our own human anatomy that leads to his point of how God clearly likes systems. He gives an example of spiritual maturity, and how it can be defined differently amongst the Church that is useful not only for ministry leaders, but for individual believers as well. Check out Daniel’s website and his book for more information! <a href="http://NewChurches.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NewChurches.com</a>

Things That Matter:  The Church, Systems & “No Silver Bullets”

As we close season two of “Things That Matter,” Pastor Brian Brodersen and Pastor Kellen Criswell of the Calvary Global Network (CGN) discuss the work God is doing around the world. From topics on different versions of adversity, missiology, and various types of leadership development, Pastors Brian and Kellen close the season by sharing that while the world and its challenges differ from even 20 years ago, we as believers are still called to fulfill the Great Commission and need to continue to seek the Lord on practical ways of doing so. We hope you have enjoyed season two of “Things That Matter,” and we look forward to the opportunities ahead in season three at the start of the new year.

TTM S2 E30: Pastor Brian & Kellen Discuss His Recent Trip to the Middle East and the Global Mission

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