It's A Pod Deal: Ministry Conversations With Lifelong Pastor Ronnie Worsham - podcast cover

It's A Pod Deal: Ministry Conversations With Lifelong Pastor Ronnie Worsham

Ronnie Worshamitsapoddeal.transistor.fm
"It's a God Deal." Anyone who knows Ronnie Worsham has heard him say this countless times. After being in ministry and leading in churches for decades, how does someone like Ronnie continue to see God at work in our world, and give him credit every chance he gets? Join hosts William Royal and John Von Runnen as they ask Ronnie questions about following Jesus in ministry, work, family, and the ups and downs of life.

Episodes

What is the Bible? (Part 1)

This week Ronnie, John, and William delve into a comprehensive discussion about the Bible. They explore different ways to interpret scripture, peeling back the layers to uncover deeper meanings and applications for both individuals and churches. Ronnie shares insights on balancing faith and engagement in politics, reflecting on the complexities of interpreting the Bible beyond a rule-based approach. The conversation touches on the Bible's origins, the challenges of biblicism, and how to cultivat...

Mar 04, 20252 hr 50 minEp. 18

What does Balance look like in Faith, Work, Leisure, and Relationships?

In this episode William, John, and Ronnie dive into part two of a discussion on integrating faith into all aspects of life. They explore how to make Jesus Lord of every area, including home, work, and friendships. Ronnie shares his insights on church governance, elder responsibilities, and the nuances of church leadership. The conversation touches on fundamentalism, scriptural interpretations, and the challenges of maintaining the mission of Christ within modern church structures. The episode co...

Feb 18, 20252 hr 17 minEp. 17

Blending and Coordinating our Roles at Home, Church, Work and in Society

Ronnie Worsham, William Royal, John Von Runnen, and special guest Aaron Knowles, delve deep into the complexities of balancing various life roles as Christians. The conversation covers managing work, family, church, and societal responsibilities while staying true to one's faith. Aaron shares his experiences as an executive, associate pastor, and father of twins, providing practical insights on integrating faith in daily life. The hosts also tackle topics like setting boundaries, maintaining a h...

Feb 03, 20252 hr 7 minEp. 16

From Churchgoers to Disciples: What is discipleship?

In this episode we delve into discipleship. The discussion begins by addressing a listener's question regarding loneliness and social anxiety, where Ronnie emphasizes how certain struggles choose us and the importance of fighting against them with faith and practical steps. The podcast then transitions into an in-depth conversation about discipleship, contrasting it with mere church membership or Christian identity. Ronnie shares his experiences and the evolution of his understanding of being a ...

Jan 20, 20252 hr 4 minEp. 15

Bridging Faith and Mental Health: Continuing the Conversation on Anxiety and Depression

This episode follows the previous episode about anxiety and depression, please listen to the previous episode first if you haven't already. This week's discussion touches on the importance of Christian community support, the role of interpersonal relationships, and practical strategies like light therapy and appropriate use of medication. Further, it contrasts Christian approaches with secular ones and discusses the trend of self-medicating with intoxicants. The discussion also highlights resour...

Jan 06, 20252 hr 13 minEp. 14

Battling Anxiety and Depression

William Royal and John Von Runnen have an in-depth discussion with Ronnie Worsham on the pressing topics of anxiety and depression. The conversation touches on personal experiences, pastoral counseling insights, and the societal factors fueling these issues. Ronnie shares his own lifelong struggles with depression, offers therapeutic advice, and emphasizes the importance of faith and community in dealing with mental health challenges. 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 01:17 Discussing Listener Que...

Dec 23, 20242 hr 9 minEp. 13

How Can We Sustain and Grow Our Relationship With God?

William and Ronnie delve into the complexities of nurturing and growing a relationship with God. To start off, Ronnie addresses a listener's question about balancing one's identity as a disciple with other significant life roles. The discussion extends to the importance of spiritual disciplines, community, personal experiences, and how encountering God's love manifests through everyday relationships and actions. The episode closes with a heartfelt song and prayer, reaffirming that our ultimate h...

Dec 09, 20242 hr 53 minEp. 12

What Does it Mean to Have a Relationship with God?

In this week's conversation, John, William, and Ronnie discuss what it means to truly have a relationship with God. Drawing on Scripture, personal stories, and years of ministry experience, they explore how faith matures over time, how to build unity in the church, and how to navigate challenges in discipleship. This episode encourages listeners to reflect on their own walk with God and how to engage meaningfully with others in their community. [00:00] - Welcome and Setting the Stage The hosts k...

Nov 25, 20242 hr 18 minEp. 11

Loneliness and Belonging

In this episode Ronnie, John, and William discuss the topic of loneliness, somewhat initiated by an article from Christianity Today. John starts the conversation, highlighting recent discussions among church leaders about the increasing prevalence of loneliness. Ronnie shares his foundational notes, emphasizing the need for balanced emotional health, community, and a strong relationship with God. The episode touches on the effects of loneliness, the role of social media, and practical steps to b...

Nov 18, 20243 hr 30 minEp. 10

Bringing Jesus into our Conflicts

Ronnie, John, and William have a discussion on handling conflict, a universal experience. The discussion begins with listener questions, highlighting themes of empathy, deep care for others, and the challenges of loving difficult people. Ronnie addresses various types of conflict, especially within marriages, families, churches, workplaces, and communities. He outlines different conflict management approaches and emphasizes the importance of prayer, honest self-reflection, and practical strategi...

Nov 11, 20242 hr 15 minEp. 9

Navigating Politics as Followers of Jesus

In this episode Ronnie, John, and William engage in an extensive discussion on the intersection of politics and faith. They address the importance of understanding one's own political and spiritual journey, highlighting influences from personal experiences and scripture. Key topics include approaching politics with a kingdom mindset, living above the fray of earthly political battles, the spiritual responsibilities of Christians, and living as exiles in a worldly system. Emphasis is placed on em...

Nov 04, 20242 hr 18 minEp. 8

A View From the Inside: A Conversation with John and William

In this episode Ronnie turns the tables and interviews John and William. Together they engage in a series of candid conversations about the complexities of faith, relationships, and leadership in ministry. They highlight the importance of sharing real, imperfect stories to showcase God's work through flawed individuals, the transformative power of friendships, and the nuances of mentorship. Topics covered include balancing personal convictions with public perception, addressing difficult convers...

Oct 28, 20242 hrEp. 7

The Case For Church Planting

In this episode, John Von Runnen and William Royal sit down with lifelong pastor Ronnie Worsham to discuss the profound journey of church planting and how God shaped his call to lead a church planting movement. Ronnie and John share stories and takeaways from planting the Mission Church, Wylie Northeast, Denton North, Arlington Central, and East Plano. This episode is particularly timely as the DFW Metro Family of Churches is preparing for upcoming church plants in Richardson and Fort Worth. Ron...

Oct 21, 20242 hr 19 minEp. 6

The Last 25 Years Part 2: Becoming a Family of Churches

In this episode we continue pastor Ronnie Worsham's story, catching up to present day. Ronnie reflects on the foundational and doctrinal issues central to church movements and offers a Christ-centric philosophy of discipleship. The conversation also explores spiritual discernment, critiques on church leadership and organization, and the balance between theological beliefs and practical church management. Other topics include the integration of campus ministries, the evolution of church dynamics,...

Oct 14, 20242 hr 58 minEp. 5

The Last 25 Years Part 1: Planting Northeast Church and FOCUS

In this episode of 'It's a Pod Deal,' Ronnie Worsham joins hosts William Royal and John Von Runnen to discuss his journey in founding and growing Northeast Church. The conversation explores his transformation from spiritual skepticism to a purposeful ministry, highlighting his focus on creating an inclusive church community that values unity over uniformity. The episode delves into leadership dynamics, the importance of embracing diversity, and nurturing unconventional leaders. It also addresses...

Oct 07, 20242 hr 35 minEp. 4

The Next 25 Years: The Winding Path of Ministry

In this episode of 'It's a Pod Deal,' hosts William Royal and John Von Runnen continue their conversation with pastor Ronnie Worsham. They explore Ronnie's ministry journey from his college days in Oklahoma to his dynamic efforts ministering in Oklahoma, Colorado, and Arizona. The discussion delves into his early ministry challenges, including integrating diverse groups into an all-white church, and the evolution of his spiritual beliefs. Ronnie shares insights on the significance of personal di...

Sep 30, 20242 hr 15 minEp. 3

The First 20 Years: How Loss, Trauma, and The Church Influenced Ronnie's Early Faith

In this podcast episode, hosts William Royal and John Von Runnen explore the life and ministry of lifelong pastor Ronnie Worsham. The discussion delves into Ronnie's early years, including the profound impact of his parents, the challenges faced, and critical life decisions that shaped his faith. Ronnie reflects on the significance of personal stories in spiritual growth and recounts poignant memories of his upbringing, including the loss of his mother. He also discusses the relief of stepping b...

Sep 23, 20242 hr 2 minEp. 2

Formative Moments: Ronnie Worsham Reflects on Early Faith Influences

In this introductory episode of 'It's a Pod Deal,' hosts William Royal, John Von Runnen, and Ronnie Worsham share their ministry backgrounds and the origins of the podcast. They delve into deep and meaningful discussions about faith, life, and the significance of their show's name. Pastor Ronnie reflects on his personal faith journey, the influential figures in his life, and the challenges he has faced, including his wife's cancer diagnosis. The episode also features a personal testimony about e...

Sep 09, 20242 hr 51 minEp. 1