http://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishingBeyond the Standard is a monthly program for church leaders sponsored by Christian Standard Magazine. Christian Standard contributors will offer perspective about ideas you’ve seen from them in the pages of our magazine. enBlogTalkRadio.com. All Rights Reserved.Sat, 15 Jun 2019 13:00:00 GMTThu, 10 Dec 2015 19:00:00 GMTChristianityBlogTalkRadio Feed v2.0https://dasg7xwmldix6.cloudfront.net/hostpics/881f755f-7c87-4be3-801b-8ae4c8347737_icon-sp_flag.jpghttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishingBeyond the Standard is a monthly program for church leaders sponsored by Christian Standard Magazine. Christian Standard contributors will offer perspective about ideas you’ve seen from them in the pages of our magazine. feeds@blogtalkradio.comBlogTalkRadio.comchristianity,christian standard,christmas,church leadership,evangelism,ministry,ben cachiaras,church growth,cross-cultural,eddie lowenStandard PublishingnoBeyond the Standard is a monthly program for church leaders sponsored by Christian Standard Magazine. Christian Standard contributors will offer perspective aboepisodichttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/12/10/beyond-the-standardworship-more-than-musicChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/12/10/beyond-the-standardworship-more-than-music/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/12/10/beyond-the-standardworship-more-than-musicThu, 10 Dec 2015 19:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Worship: More Than MusicAll of us know what a crucial role music plays in most weekly worship gatherings. But in this episode, we talk with two worship leaders whose worship planning does not begin or end with music. Laura Dingman creative arts director at The Creek, Indianapolis, Indiana, describes how the church moved from a sermon-centered to a story-centered model for worship planning. The result is worship experiences that engage worshippers in new and more meaningful ways. Join editor Mark A. Taylor  December 10 as he asks Laura, along with Tom Harrigan, worship minister at The Creek, to describe their church’s fresh approach. We’ll discuss not only their philosophy and strategy but also specific ideas for touching worshippers in new ways at your congregation. Find Laura's article in the December issue of Christian Standard. Available for your phone or tablet now via our free app. 01:06:00Standard Publishingnochristianity,worship,Christian Standard,Mark A. Taylor,Laura DingmanTwo worship planners tell why and how worship is more than music.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/10/20/beyond-the-standardquitting-solitaireChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/10/20/beyond-the-standardquitting-solitaire/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/10/20/beyond-the-standardquitting-solitaireTue, 20 Oct 2015 20:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Quitting SolitaireHow does a Christian leader maintain integrity? Four significant Christian leaders we know answered that question by looking to each other. For more than a decade, these guys have vowed to get together, stay in touch with each other, and hold each other to standards of holiness that guard and guide their ministries and their personal lives. Host Mark A. Taylor will ask them to explain how this works, in this lively discussion with all four of them . . . Ben Cachiaras, senior pastor with Mountain Christian Church, Joppa, Maryland Tim Harlow, senior pastor with Parkview Christian Church, Orland Park, Illinois Eddie Lowen, lead minister with Westside Christian Church, Springfield, Illinois Greg Nettle, president of Stadia, Irvine, California. Read Eddie Lowen's description of how this group works in the October Christian Standard. (Find it in our digital edition via the free Christian Standard app for your phone or tablet.) Then come ready for insight--and probably several laughs--in a discussion you'll want to hear and share. 01:03:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,leadership,accountability,Ben Cachiaras,Tim HarlowFour Christian leaders tell how and why they've created accountability with each other.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/09/17/beyond-the-standardfind-keep-the-volunteers-you-needChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/09/17/beyond-the-standardfind-keep-the-volunteers-you-need/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/09/17/beyond-the-standardfind-keep-the-volunteers-you-needThu, 17 Sep 2015 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Find & Keep the Volunteers You NeedHow to discover, mobilize, and thank the people who make your ministry happen You know your ministry canNOT succeed without volunteers. You know you need people who are capable, motivated, trained, and dependable. But do you know how to get them?And even more important, how to keep them? In this episode, Christian Standard editor Mark A. Taylor talks with two local church leaders who have years of experience recruiting and energizing volunteers. Susan Lawrence coordinates women’s ministries, small groups ministry, and Christian education at Taylorville (Illinois) Christian Church. Melissa Sandel is director of ministries with West Side Christian Church, Springfield, Illinois. Each of them wrote about thanking volunteers in the September Christian Standard, and each of them will help you keep the people you need where you serve. Read their articles, and join our discussion about an issue crucial to every ministry leader. 01:04:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Recruiting,Training,Volunteers,ChurchHow to find, mobilize, and thank the people who make your ministry happenhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/08/20/beyond-the-standardthe-dad-dilemmaChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/08/20/beyond-the-standardthe-dad-dilemma/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/08/20/beyond-the-standardthe-dad-dilemmaThu, 20 Aug 2015 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—The Dad DilemmaPsychologists, sociologists, and educators are all concerned about Dad. They know the critical problems caused when Dad disappears. The questions for this episode are . . . What can the church do to keep dads on track? How can the church nurture kids when Dad is not at home? Two special guests will share ideas and solutions: Becky Ahlberg has seen the damage of distant dads as she’s worked with single mothers in urban Anaheim, California. Jack Holland has counseled students from broken families and made a career of teaching church leaders how to nurture fathers. Each of them has written incisive articles in the August Christian Standard about why we need to do better with dads. Find their pieces in the digital edition and then tune in to ask your questions. Becky Ahlberg serves as executive director of My Safe Harbor, Anaheim, California. Jack Holland is Russell and Marian Blowers Professor of Christian Ministry at Emmanuel Christian Seminary in Johnson City, Tennessee. 00:56:00Standard PublishingnoChristian Standard,Christianity,Fatherhood,Family,Jack HollandHow do we help dads stay on task and help kids whose dad has disappeared?http://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/08/12/missions-ministers-talk-best-practicesChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/08/12/missions-ministers-talk-best-practices/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/08/12/missions-ministers-talk-best-practicesWed, 12 Aug 2015 18:00:00 GMTMissions Ministers Talk Best PracticesTranscibed and edited for the November issue of Christian Standard, this hour-long discussion gives practical nuts-and-bolts help for anyone leading a local church missions ministry. 01:02:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,missionsRoundtable discussion with local church missions ministers telling what they do and how.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/06/18/beyond-the-standardpursuing-the-radical-centerChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/06/18/beyond-the-standardpursuing-the-radical-center/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/06/18/beyond-the-standardpursuing-the-radical-centerThu, 18 Jun 2015 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Pursuing the Radical Center"In a world of polarized extremes, the most  difficult position isn't pumping your fist for one extreme or the other, but moving to the middle to shake hands in the radical center, embracing the truth on both sides of an issue." That's the position of month's guest, Ben Cachiaras, who will talk with host Mark Taylor about all the implications and possibilities for embracing the genius of the "and." Jesus was both fully human AND fully God, he points out. Jesus challenges us to teach believers AND preach to unbelievers AND do ministry in the world. Read Ben's challenging article, along with those from several others, in the June issue of Christian Standard. And then tune in to see if you are one of those Cachiaras describes as "a new breed of Christian leader today . . . fed up with simplistic answers in a complex world." You can read the digital edition of Christian Standard on your smartphone or tablet. More information here: http://christianstandard.com/subscribe/digital-subscriptions/ 00:59:00Standard PublishingnoBen Cachiaras,truth,Christianity,Christian Standard"In a world of polarized extremes, the most  difficult position isn't pumping your fist for one extreme or the other, but moving to the middle to shake hands inhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/05/28/beyond-the-standardweighing-the-numbersChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/05/28/beyond-the-standardweighing-the-numbers/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/05/28/beyond-the-standardweighing-the-numbersThu, 28 May 2015 17:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Weighing the NumbersOf all the names and numbers reported in the May issue of Christian Standard, we'll introduce you to three of them in this helpful episode: Brian Kruckenberg, lead pastor with New City Church in Phoenix, Arizona will talk about his congregation's remarkable growth, 61.5% in 2014! The second fastest-growing church reporting to us was Lifepointe Church in Raleigh, NC at 36.2 percent. Donnie Williams, Lifepointe's lead pastor, will join our panel. Our third guest is Bo Chancey, senior pastor with Manchester (NH) Christian Church. This congregation achieved the highest baptism ratio, 17.7 percent. That means for every 100 people in the congregation's 2014 average, the church baptized almost 18 people. We want to know how these congregations achieved this kind of outreach. Please listen for ideas and be ready to ask your questions of these dynamic church leaders. Download the May issue of Christian Standard from the App Store, at Google play, or from apps for Kindle. 01:07:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,church growth,Brian Kruckenberg,Donnie Williams,Bo ChanceyOf all the names and numbers reported in the May issue of Christian Standard, we'll introduce you to three of them in this helpful episode: Brian Kruckenberg,http://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/04/30/beyond-the-standardduring-the-suffering-after-the-painChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/04/30/beyond-the-standardduring-the-suffering-after-the-pain/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/04/30/beyond-the-standardduring-the-suffering-after-the-painThu, 30 Apr 2015 19:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—During the Suffering, After the PainSteve Wyatt and Joe Harvey each have a powerful testimony after suffering unfortunate pain. Steve's first wife left him and his second wife died tragically with cancer. Joe's daughter, Mandy, a promising voice major at Colorado State University, quickly went deaf, losing most of her hearing by the end of her freshman year. Each man continues to minister effectively today: Steve is lead pastor with The Crossroads Church in Anthem, Arizona. Joe is associate professor at John University Florida in Kissimmee. Their stories of health and hope will inspire your walk, no matter the obstacles in your road. 01:03:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,suffering,pain,Steve Wyatt,Joe HarveySteve Wyatt and Joe Harvey each have a powerful testimony after suffering unfortunate pain. Steve's first wife left him and his second wife died tragically withttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/03/26/beyond-the-standardwhy-the-north-american-christian-conventionChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/03/26/beyond-the-standardwhy-the-north-american-christian-convention/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/03/26/beyond-the-standardwhy-the-north-american-christian-conventionThu, 26 Mar 2015 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Why the North American Christian Convention?Join host Mark Taylor as he talks with Mike Baker, the president of this year’s North American Christian Convention. Mike will give us the latest news about the event scheduled for this June 23-26 in Cincinnati, Ohio, and answer questions like these . . . What’s different about this year’s gathering?Why do we still need the NACC?Which of today’s problems or opportunities prompted the convention program he planned? Mike, the senior pastor with the thriving Eastview Christian Church in Normal, Illinois, is focusing his proven leadership skills on a gathering that will bless many thousands. We’ll pick his brain, not only about the convention, but also about the challenges facing every Christian leader today. 00:52:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Mike Baker,North American Christian Convention,churchJoin host Mark Taylor as he talks with Mike Baker, the president of this year’s North American Christian Convention. Mike will give us the latest news about thehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/02/26/beyond-the-standardsolving-compulsive-sexual-behaviorsChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/02/26/beyond-the-standardsolving-compulsive-sexual-behaviors/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/02/26/beyond-the-standardsolving-compulsive-sexual-behaviorsThu, 26 Feb 2015 16:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Solving Compulsive Sexual BehaviorsAmong the many writers and advice givers in the February Christian Standard was Dr. Mark Laaser, one of the country's best-known Christian experts in the field of sexual addiction. Dr. Laser has ministered to thousands of individuals and couples who have struggled with sexual sin and the devastation of sexual betrayal. He will share practical information and a message of hope and redemption with editor Mark Taylor iin this interview. Listen live and ask your questions too. Read what he says in the February issue of Christian Standard. Downloadyour copy to your smartphone or tablet. Click here to learn how! 00:59:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,sexual addiction,Mark LaaserAmong the many writers and advice givers in the February Christian Standard was Dr. Mark Laaser, one of the country's best-known Christian experts in the fieldhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/01/27/finding-your-way-back-to-godChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/01/27/finding-your-way-back-to-god/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/01/27/finding-your-way-back-to-godTue, 27 Jan 2015 18:30:00 GMTFinding Your Way Back to GodDave Ferguson and Jon Ferguson, leaders at Community Christian Church, Naperville, Illinois, discuss their new book, Finding Your Way Back to God: why they wrote it, who should read it, and how churches can use it. 00:31:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Dave Ferguson,Jon Ferguson,Community Christian Church,evangelismDave Ferguson and Jon Ferguson, leaders at Community Christian Church, Naperville, Illinois, discuss their new book, Finding Your Way Back to God: why they wrothttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/01/22/beyond-the-standardhealthy-churchChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/01/22/beyond-the-standardhealthy-church/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2015/01/22/beyond-the-standardhealthy-churchThu, 22 Jan 2015 16:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Healthy Church?In the January issue of Christian Standard, more than a dozen church leaders give their prescription for making your church healthy. In this special episode, we talk with three of them. Nate Bush, lead pastor with New City Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico, wrote, A Healthy Church Helps Make a Healthy Community.Jeff Faull, minister with Mount Gilead Church in Mooresville, Indiana, wrote, A Healthy Church Is Doctrinally Strong.Joe Putting, senior pastor with Tomoka Christian Church, Ormond Beach, Florida, wrote, A Healthy Church Is a Giving Church. Read their pieces in Christian Standard (here’s how to download it today: http://christianstandard.com/subscribe/digital-subscriptions/). Then plan to join our conversation. Each of these fellows has more to say than print space allowed. And we’ll talk with all of them about more than their assigned topic! We’re looking forward to a rich discussion about earmarks of a healthy church. 01:08:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Church,Church health,Church giving,Church doctrineIn the January issue of Christian Standard, more than a dozen church leaders give their prescription for making your church healthy. In this special episode, wehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/12/04/beyond-the-standardgood-news-to-the-poorChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/12/04/beyond-the-standardgood-news-to-the-poor/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/12/04/beyond-the-standardgood-news-to-the-poorThu, 04 Dec 2014 16:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Good News to the PoorAs we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we may overlook an important fact: When Jesus came to earth, he chose to be poor. This month's episode challenges us with practical ideas for serving the poor—and learning from the poor—all around us today. Each of our guests has significant experience with ministry among the poor. Becky Ahlberg is executive director with My Safe Harbor in Anaheim, California. Chris Smith ministers with Englewood Christian Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. Aaron Wymer is senior minister with Grandview Christian Church in Johnson City, Tennessee. 01:04:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,poverty,Christmas,Aaron Wymer,Becky AhlbergAs we celebrate the birth of Jesus, we may overlook an important fact: When Jesus came to earth, he chose to be poor. This month's episode challenges us with prhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/11/20/beyond-the-standardhow-are-we-doing-with-missionsChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/11/20/beyond-the-standardhow-are-we-doing-with-missions/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/11/20/beyond-the-standardhow-are-we-doing-with-missionsThu, 20 Nov 2014 16:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—How Are We Doing with Missions?What's working and what's not in our far-flung and creative efforts to take the gospel everywhere? Three missions leaders for Christian churches/churches of Christ look at the current situation and answer key questions about missions progress, obstacles, and opportunities. Read their comments in the November Christian Standard. (Download it today via the Christian Standard app available at the App Store, Google Play, or Amazon Apps for Kindle Fire.) Then bring your questions about international cross-cultural evangelism to this discussion. Reggie Hundley is executive director of Missions Services Association, Knoxville, Tennessee. Doug Lucas is president of Team Expansion, Knoxville, Tennessee. Tony Twist is president of TCM International Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana.   01:04:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,missions,cross-cultural,evangelismWhat's working and what's not in our far-flung and creative efforts to take the gospel everywhere? Three missions leaders for Christian churches/churches of Chhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/10/23/beyond-the-standardin-the-culture-for-the-cultureChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/10/23/beyond-the-standardin-the-culture-for-the-culture/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/10/23/beyond-the-standardin-the-culture-for-the-cultureThu, 23 Oct 2014 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—IN the Culture, FOR the CultureJoe Boyd, founder and president of Rebel Pilgrim Productions, talks about telling our stories in the places where people already go to get their stories.   Rich Gorman, copastor with his wife, Dori, at Community Christian Church's Edgewater campus on the north side of Chicago, shares his vision for cooperating with God to do his work in the city.   Read their stories in the October issue of Christian Standard, available September 12 via the Christian Standard app. Then listen for what else they'll tell us about their vision for changing our culture from the inside out. 01:03:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,cultureJoe Boyd, founder and president of Rebel Pilgrim Productions, talks about telling our stories in the places where people already go to get their stories.   Rihttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/09/25/beyond-the-standardhow-were-changing-our-cityChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/09/25/beyond-the-standardhow-were-changing-our-city/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/09/25/beyond-the-standardhow-were-changing-our-cityThu, 25 Sep 2014 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—How We're Changing Our CityGlen Elliott ministers with Pantano Christian Church in Tucson, Arizona. David Drum serves with 4Tucson, an enterprise committed to seeing change in Tucson through the witness of Christians working together. Together they'll tell how barriers have been broken, Christians have come together, and real change is happening in Tucson, listed as the 12th-most post-Christian city in America. If you're not sure how change could ever come to your city, listen to these fellows tell what God is doing through his people in a place some doubted could ever be changed. Read Glen's story in the September issue of Christian Standard, downloadable now via the Christian Standard app for your smartphone or tablet! 01:04:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,change,Tucson Arizona,ministryGlen Elliott ministers with Pantano Christian Church in Tucson, Arizona. David Drum serves with 4Tucson, an enterprise committed to seeing change in Tucson thrhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/08/28/beyond-the-standardchristian-colleges-the-challenges-and-the-opportunitiesChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/08/28/beyond-the-standardchristian-colleges-the-challenges-and-the-opportunities/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/08/28/beyond-the-standardchristian-colleges-the-challenges-and-the-opportunitiesThu, 28 Aug 2014 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Christian Colleges, the Challenges and the OpportunitiesColleges everywhere are coping with shifting demographics, rising expectations, an unstable economy, and the challenges of the digital revolution. Nowhere is this clearer than with small Christian colleges and universities, yet these schools continue to train leaders and impact lives. In this program we will talk with three Christian college administrators about the challenges and opportunities they see for the future. D. Clay Perkins is president of Mid-Atlantic Christian University, Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Michael Sweeney has resigned as president of Emmanuel Christian Seminary in Johnson City, Tennessee, where he remains as a professor. Jon Weatherly is dean of the School of Bible and Theology at Johnson University, Knoxville, Tennessee. Read what they've written about Christian colleges by purchasing the August issue of Christian Standard, via our new app on the App Store, Google Play, or Amazon Apps. 01:06:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Christian college,CollegeColleges everywhere are coping with shifting demographics, rising expectations, an unstable economy, and the challenges of the digital revolution. Nowhere is thttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/07/31/beyond-the-standardministry-today-with-eddie-lowenChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/07/31/beyond-the-standardministry-today-with-eddie-lowen/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/07/31/beyond-the-standardministry-today-with-eddie-lowenThu, 31 Jul 2014 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—"Ministry Today" with Eddie LowenEddie Lowen, pastor with West Side Christian Church, Springfield, Illinois and semimonthly "Ministry Today" columnist at Christian Standard, talks about ministrychallenges that some are unwilling to face, and ministrypractices that most should be willing to implement. Eddie will talk with Christian Editor Mark A. Taylor about his biases and burdens for ministry. Tune in and ask your questions about opportunities at your church. Meanwhile, read a compilation of his "Ministry Today" columns via a free download in the new, free Christian Standard app. Download it today from the App Store, Google Play, or Amazon apps. 01:05:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,ministry,Eddie Lowen,ministers,Ministers trainingEddie Lowen, pastor with West Side Christian Church, Springfield, Illinois and semimonthly "Ministry Today" columnist at Christian Standard, talks about ministrhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/06/26/beyond-the-standardapologetics-is-different-nowChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/06/26/beyond-the-standardapologetics-is-different-now/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/06/26/beyond-the-standardapologetics-is-different-nowThu, 26 Jun 2014 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Apologetics Is Different Now!Sharing Christ with non-Christians in America may be more difficult than ever. One thing's for sure: our approach certainly must change if we’re to have any success pointing nonbelievers to the truth. Three Christian leaders grapple with this issue in this episode of Beyond the Standard. Ben Cachiaras, senior minister with Mountain Christian Church, Joppa, Maryland, says Christians in America should compare themselves with the Old Testament Jews in Babylonian exile. How can we think differently about ourselves and our mission, now that we live in a foreign and hostile culture? Casey Tygrett, spiritual formation pastor at Parkview Christian Church, Orland Park, Illinois, says we need to do more listening and less talking. What can we learn and how can we influence by letting the nonbeliever talk first and most? Richard Knopp, professor of philosophy and Christian apologetics at Lincoln (Illinois) Christian University, helps us understand the purpose of apologetics. It’s way more than just sitting around waiting for someone to attack the faith so we can defend it. 01:08:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,culture awareness,apologetics,evangelism,Christian StandardSharing Christ with non-Christians in America may be more difficult than ever. One thing's for sure: our approach certainly must change if we’re to have any suhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/05/15/beyond-the-standardmegachurches-mega-ministryChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/05/15/beyond-the-standardmegachurches-mega-ministry/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/05/15/beyond-the-standardmegachurches-mega-ministryThu, 15 May 2014 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Megachurches, Mega MinistryJoin Christian Standard editor Mark Taylor  for a conversation with senior pastors from three of the largest megachurches in America. These three congregations top the chart in Christian Standard’s annual listing (May 2014 issue) of 2013 worship attendance for megachurches among Christian churches and churches of Christ: Central Christian Church, Henderson, NV: 21,562       Jud Wilhite, pastor Southeast Christian Church, Louisville, KY: 21,214        Dave Stone, pastor Christ’s Church of the Valley, Peoria, AZ: 20,327     Don Wilson, pastor In this special program, we’ll ask them . . . What ministry strategies are you using that could work for a church of any size?What about multisites? How have they contributed to your growth and effectiveness?What about our changing culture? Can megachurches continue their appeal among a population increasingly skeptical of church and religion? Learn what these churches have in common and how they’ve adapted their strategies to meet the unique needs where they are. Be ready to ask your questions too! 01:03:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,megachurches,Las Vegas,Louisville,PhoenixJoin Christian Standard editor Mark Taylor  for a conversation with senior pastors from three of the largest megachurches in America. These three congregationshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/04/10/beyond-the-standardhow-we-worship-why-we-prayChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/04/10/beyond-the-standardhow-we-worship-why-we-pray/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/04/10/beyond-the-standardhow-we-worship-why-we-prayThu, 10 Apr 2014 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—How We Worship, Why We PrayDoes everyone worship? Should everyone pray? This month's guests, Ken Read and David Butts, answer both questions with a resounding "YES!" Starting with insights they shared at christianstandard.com, these two national leaders and experts will answer questions like these: Who worships and how? And what does this say for the church's worship planners?What happens when people pray? How can prayer bring everyday Christians closer to God and help them change their worlds? Christian Standard editor Mark A. Taylor will host this lively dialogue and invite comments from listeners as well. Dr. Ken Read is department chair in music and worship at  Cincinnati (Ohio) Christian University. David Butts is president of Harvest Prayer Ministries in Terre Haute, Indiana, and chairman of America's National Prayer Committee. 00:59:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,worship,prayer,Christian StandardDoes everyone worship? Should everyone pray? This month's guests, Ken Read and David Butts, answer both questions with a resounding "YES!" Starting with insihttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/03/20/beyond-the-standardnot-the-only-christiansChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/03/20/beyond-the-standardnot-the-only-christians/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/03/20/beyond-the-standardnot-the-only-christiansThu, 20 Mar 2014 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Not the Only ChristiansWe are Christians only, but NOT the only Christians! This motto has been central in the thinking and theology of Christian churches and churches of Christ for more than two centuries. But understanding and applying the principle is an issue for each new generation. The "Christians Only Challenge" is the theme of Christian Standard's March issue. In this episode we welcome three contributors to that discussion. Dr. Paul Blowers is professor of church history at Emmanuel Christian Seminary, Johnson City, Tennessee. Dr. Rick Grover is senior pastor with East 91st Street Christian Church, Indianapolis, Indiana. Bob Russell is retired minister of Southeast Christian Church, Louisville, Kentucky, and a speaker and writer in demand before many audiences. For more information, go to www.christianstandard.com 01:04:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Denominationalism,Restoration Movement,Stone-Campbell Movement,Christians OnlyWe are Christians only, but NOT the only Christians! This motto has been central in the thinking and theology of Christian churches and churches of Christ forhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/02/20/beyond-the-standardteaching-the-bible-in-a-biblically-ignorant-ageChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/02/20/beyond-the-standardteaching-the-bible-in-a-biblically-ignorant-age/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/02/20/beyond-the-standardteaching-the-bible-in-a-biblically-ignorant-ageThu, 20 Feb 2014 16:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Teaching the Bible in a Biblically Ignorant AgeTwo Christian Educators Discuss Biblical Illiteracy What happens to a culture when it no longer is influenced by a knowledge of the Bible? And what happens to the church when its members no longer understand even basic Bible facts and personalities? In this episode, two Christian educators talk about today's plague of biblical  illiteracy and—most important—what we can do to combat it. Dr. James Estep is undergraduate dean and Christian ministries professor at Lincoln (Illinois) Christian University. Dr. Teresa Welch is professor of Christian education and ministry at Ozark Christian College, Joplin, Missouri, and adjunct professor at Emmanuel Christian Seminary, Johnson City, Tennesse. Each of these guests brings wide experience to the issue of how the church can teach the Bible. 01:06:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Christian education,Bible,Biblical illiteracy,MinistryTwo Christian Educators Discuss Biblical Illiteracy What happens to a culture when it no longer is influenced by a knowledge of the Bible? And what happens tohttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/01/09/beyond-the-standardsatisfaction-for-saleChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/01/09/beyond-the-standardsatisfaction-for-sale/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2014/01/09/beyond-the-standardsatisfaction-for-saleThu, 09 Jan 2014 16:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Satisfaction for SaleSatisfaction for Sale . . . Consumer Christians in a World of Want Three Christian leaders talk about what consumerism is doing to our culture and our churches and our souls. Each of them wrote in the January issue of Christian Standard. (See christianstandard.com.) We'll ask them to expand on what they told us there and answer your questions about how a new view of spending and accumulating can free us for a better life and a stronger relationship with God. Ryan Connor, lead pastor with Amity (Oregon) Christian Church, looks at the anxiety that can dog us when we worry too much about money. Janet McMahon, community life director with Restore Community Church in Kansas City, Missouri, shares her experience after committing for a year not to buy anything for herself. Jay Link, president of Stewardship Ministries in Mooresville, Indiana, talks about why it's important and how it's possible to live on less. 01:04:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,consumerism,spending,materialism,moneySatisfaction for Sale . . . Consumer Christians in a World of Want Three Christian leaders talk about what consumerism is doing to our culture and our churchehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/12/20/beyond-the-standardchristmas-with-christian-standardChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/12/20/beyond-the-standardchristmas-with-christian-standard/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/12/20/beyond-the-standardchristmas-with-christian-standardFri, 20 Dec 2013 02:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—Christmas with Christian Standard Join us  to hear editor Mark A. Taylor and editor-at-large Paul S. Williams share Christmas nostalgia, inspiration, and hope from the pages of Christian Standard. Mark and Paul will read Christmas columns and articles they've written as well as their favorite Christmas essays and stories from past years' issues of Christian Standard. Listen to be encouraged and challenged. Share with your church staff or your family for a special holiday treat. Glean illustrations or examples for your own preaching and teaching this month. Download this episode and enjoy it anytime during the Christmas season! 00:49:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Christian Standard,Christmas,Mark Taylor,Paul WilliamsJoin us  to hear editor Mark A. Taylor and editor-at-large Paul S. Williams share Christmas nostalgia, inspiration, and hope from the pages of Christian Standahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/12/12/christmas-with-christian-standardChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/12/12/christmas-with-christian-standard/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/12/12/christmas-with-christian-standardThu, 12 Dec 2013 20:00:00 GMTChristmas with Christian StandardJoin us to hear editor Mark A. Taylor and editor-at-large Paul S. Williams share nostalgia, inspiration, and hope from the pages of Christian Standard. Mark and Paul will read Christmas columns and articles they've written as well as their favorite Christmas essays and stories from past years' issues of Christian Standard. Listen to be encouraged and challenged. Share with your church staff or your family for a special holiday treat. Glean illustrations or examples for your own preaching and teaching this month. Download this episode and enjoy it anytime during the Christmas season! 00:49:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Christian Standard,Christmas,Mark Taylor,Paul WilliamsJoin us to hear editor Mark A. Taylor and editor-at-large Paul S. Williams share nostalgia, inspiration, and hope from the pages of Christian Standard. Mark anhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/12/05/christmas-with-christian-standardChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/12/05/christmas-with-christian-standard/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/12/05/christmas-with-christian-standardThu, 05 Dec 2013 16:00:00 GMTChristmas with Christian StandardJoin us any Thursday before Christmas to hear editor Mark A. Taylor and editor-at-large Paul S. Williams share nostalgia, inspiration, and hope from the pages of Christian Standard. Mark and Paul will read Christmas columns and articles they've written as well as their favorite Christmas essays and stories from past years' issues of Christian Standard. Listen to be encouraged and challenged. Share with your church staff or your family for a special holiday treat. Glean illustrations or examples for your own preaching and teaching this month. Listen live today. Tune in at an upcoming scheduled encore broadcadt. Or download this episode and enjoy it anytime during the Christmas season! 00:49:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Christian Standard,Christmas,Paul Williams,Mark TaylorJoin us any Thursday before Christmas to hear editor Mark A. Taylor and editor-at-large Paul S. Williams share nostalgia, inspiration, and hope from the pages ohttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/11/21/problems-and-opportunities-in-cross-cultural-missions-1Christianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/11/21/problems-and-opportunities-in-cross-cultural-missions-1/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/11/21/problems-and-opportunities-in-cross-cultural-missions-1Thu, 21 Nov 2013 16:00:00 GMTProblems and Opportunities in Cross-Cultural MissionsCultural, demographic, and economic trends are changing our strategies for effective missions work. Three experienced missions leaders explain their perspectives on what we need to do next. Gayla Congdon is founder and chief spiritual officer for Amor Ministries in San Diego, California.Michael Sweeney served as a translator and translation consultant with Pioneer Bible Translators before becoming president of Emmanuel School of Religion.Doug Priest served as a missionary in Africa and Asia. Now he is executive director of Christian Missionary Fellowship, based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Find the articles they wrote or subscribe to Christian Standard at www.christianstandard.com     Listen live! November 21, 2013, 11 a.m., Eastern   01:05:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,missionary,missions,cross-cultural,trendsCultural, demographic, and economic trends are changing our strategies for effective missions work. Three experienced missions leaders explain their perspectivehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/10/24/church-planting-the-small-church-megachurch-standoffChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/10/24/church-planting-the-small-church-megachurch-standoff/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/10/24/church-planting-the-small-church-megachurch-standoffThu, 24 Oct 2013 15:00:00 GMTChurch Planting: The Small Church/ Megachurch Standoff   Everybody's behind church planting, but not everyone sees church planting the same way! In this freewheeling discussion, two ministers talk about church planting from their unique points-of-view. Steve Wyatt, a church planter and former megachurch pastor, asks megachurches to give some breaks to church plants.Aaron Brockett, a megachurch pastor and former church planter, explains why big isn't always better and certainly isn't usually easier. Together they'll lend passionate perspective to a challenge all of us must embrace: Let's plant more churches! Tune in Thursday, October 24, 11 a.m., Eastern. 01:04:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,church-planting,evangelism,megachurches,new churchesEverybody's behind church planting, but not everyone sees church planting the same way! In this freewheeling discussion, two ministers talk about church plahttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/09/26/reaching-the-city-serving-the-cityChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/09/26/reaching-the-city-serving-the-city/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/09/26/reaching-the-city-serving-the-cityThu, 26 Sep 2013 15:00:00 GMTReaching the City, Serving the City Three evangelists in urban settings talk about their work in their cities--with strategies to help anyone penetrate the city with the gospel. Vince Antonucci ministers with Verve Church on the "strip" in Las Vegas, Nevada. Tammy Melchien is site pastor of the Chicago Impact Lincoln Square site of Community Christian Church. Kevin Haah is lead pastor with New City Christian Church, a multiethnic, socioeconomically diverse congregation in downtown Los Angeles. Hear them here, Thursday, September 26, 11 a.m. Eastern time. 01:05:00Standard Publishingnourban,evangelism,Las Vegas,Chicago,Los AngelesThree evangelists in urban settings talk about their work in their cities--with strategies to help anyone penetrate the city with the gospel. Vince Antonucci mhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/08/15/beyond-the-standardwhat-about-marriageChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/08/15/beyond-the-standardwhat-about-marriage/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/08/15/beyond-the-standardwhat-about-marriageThu, 15 Aug 2013 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—What About Marriage? Three ministers talk about marriage--yours, theirs, and those served by churches like yours. Each will go beyond what he wrote in the August issue of Christian Standard to answer your questions and add insight. Jim Street, Lawrenceville, Georgia, examines how marriage has changed and how the church should react. Randy Gariss, Joplin, Missouri, suggests how you and those you counsel can build a marriage that will thrive for decades. Arron Chambers, Greeley, Colorado, shares what he's learned and what he's decided after coaching troubled couples every week for years. Before the program, find their articles at ChristianStandard.com and then come to this webcast with your questions and ideas. 01:07:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,marriage,counseling,church leadership,divorceThree ministers talk about marriage--yours, theirs, and those served by churches like yours. Each will go beyond what he wrote in the August issue of Christianhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/07/18/an-hour-with-roy-lawsonChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/07/18/an-hour-with-roy-lawson/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/07/18/an-hour-with-roy-lawsonThu, 18 Jul 2013 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard—An Hour with Roy Lawson LeRoy Lawson, after more than five decades in ministry, continues to be a leader of church leaders. In Christian Standard's July issue he reflects on how leaders and leadership are changing. In this special BlogTalk episode, we'll probe for more insights—including both his compliments and critiques of today's crop of young leaders. Don't miss this delightful discussion with one of today's most sought-after church statesmen!   00:59:00Standard PublishingnoChristianity,Christian Standard,church leadership,LeRoy Lawson,leadersLeRoy Lawson, after more than five decades in ministry, continues to be a leader of church leaders. In Christian Standard's July issue he reflects on how leadehttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/06/20/beyond-the-standard-why-missional-mattersChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/06/20/beyond-the-standard-why-missional-matters/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/06/20/beyond-the-standard-why-missional-mattersThu, 20 Jun 2013 15:00:00 GMTBeyond the Standard: Why Missional Matters Once considered a topic on the fringe, the missional conversation has now become central among many churches. More and more leaders today are realizing that every Christian is a missionary and every neighborhood is a place where the church can develop disciples by building relationships. No one understands this better than the three missional leaders who will be our guests on this program. • Greg Nettle, Visionary Leader, RiverTree Christian Church, Massillon, Ohio • Jon Ferguson, Chicago Network Leader, Community Christian Church, Naperville, Illinois • Jon Weece, Lead Follower, Southland Christian Church, Lexington, Kentucky. Each will describe his congregation’s journey toward missional ideals and tell us what he’s learned along the way. 01:05:00Standard PublishingnoMissional movement,Church leadership,Church growth,Discipleship,MinistryOnce considered a topic on the fringe, the missional conversation has now become central among many churches. More and more leaders today are realizing that evhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/06/18/standard-publishing-announces-vbs-2014Christianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/06/18/standard-publishing-announces-vbs-2014/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/06/18/standard-publishing-announces-vbs-2014Tue, 18 Jun 2013 19:00:00 GMTStandard Publishing Announces VBS 2014!Join the Standard team and guests as we announce the VBS 2014 theme and deep dive into the program.00:38:00Standard PublishingnoVBS,Vacation Bible School,Special Needs,Yancy,Beth GuckenbergerJoin the Standard team and guests as we announce the VBS 2014 theme and deep dive into the program.http://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/05/23/new-beyond-the-standard--integrity-in-a-shifting-cultureChristianityhttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/05/23/new-beyond-the-standard--integrity-in-a-shifting-culture/#commentshttp://www.blogtalkradio.com/standardpublishing/2013/05/23/new-beyond-the-standard--integrity-in-a-shifting-cultureThu, 23 May 2013 15:00:00 GMTNEW! Beyond the Standard - Integrity in a Shifting CultureBeyond the Standard is a monthly program for church leaders, sponsored by Christian Standard Magazine. Christian Standard contributors offer perspectives that go beyond what's printed each month and invite you to openly particpate in the discussion. Let's grow together through conversation and connection! This month join: George Ross, minister, Northside Christian Church (New Albany, IN): "God has called us to reach and serve people with messy lives. George tells how he's living out this challenge in his ministry." Tim Harlow, senior pastor, Parkview Christian Church (Orland Park, IL): "Tim saw Chick-fil-A President Dan Cathy's invitation to spend time with gay activist Shane Windmeyer and said 'I think that's what Jesus would do'. Would we?" Brian Mavis, executive director, The Externally Focused Network: "Are our ministries, programs, and activities merely transactional or are they transformational? How do we plan and lead ministries that impact lives instead of just filling the church calendar?" Each of these speakers has written about these topics in the May issue of Christian Standard Magazine which you can find at www.christianstandard.com.  01:00:00Standard PublishingnoChristian,Christian Standard,church leader,ministry,leadershipBeyond the Standard is a monthly program for church leaders, sponsored by Christian Standard Magazine. Christian Standard contributors offer perspectives that g