Provoke & Inspire Podcast - podcast cover

Provoke & Inspire Podcast

Steiger Podcast Network www.provokeandinspirepodcast.com

Provoke & Inspire is a weekly podcast featuring four artists, ministry leaders, and passionate followers of Jesus (Ben, David, Luke, and Chad) with decades of front-line experience and the stories to back it up! Every week they discuss how Jesus might respond to current events and issues facing the church today. 

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Episodes

Episode 138: So the World Is on Fire, Why Should I Care?

You’ve probably heard many people quote Matthew 9:37, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” And speak on how we need more workers to go into the harvest. But why is that? Why are we not seeing more workers? The regulars try to answer these questions and also discuss why many people start out in ministry or missions but don’t seem to last. Of course there is a David's Random Story and this time David shares what happened when No Longer Music performed a slightly controversial song a...

Jan 11, 201947 minEp. 138

Episode 137: Are New Year’s Resolutions an Annual Excuse for Self Focus?

The new year has arrived, and with it, people’s new year’s goals and resolutions. Is there any benefit to creating a new years resolution? Or is it just an excuse for self focus? The regulars discuss this topic and share their personal experiences in the matter. They also look at a recent NAS Daily video about morality and the idea that there is no right or wrong. How do we react as christians when people say there are no absolute truths? What kind of conversations should we be having to help ex...

Jan 10, 201952 minEp. 137

Episode 136: We Are Only Visiting This Planet

In this special episode of the P&I podcast, we play a message that David gave at Grace Church in Minneapolis, called “We Are Only Visiting This Planet”. David speaks on the importance of having an eternal perspective and how that should impact the way we live our lives. Thank you so much for all the support you’ve given us in 2018, we’re excited to be creating new content in 2019 and seeing where God leads us! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www....

Dec 27, 201831 minEp. 136

Episode 135: Having a Form of Godliness but Denying Its Power. Bogota Road Report!

No Longer Music just finished their tour in Colombia, where they have seen people experiencing God’s power, being physically healed and receiving Jesus in their lives. Ben and David share some stories of all that God has been doing and look at the importance of healings, signs, wonders and miracles, when preaching the Gospel and leading people to Jesus. David also shares of the interesting bond between a cat and a monkey in his Random Story. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenp...

Dec 20, 201835 minEp. 135

Episode 134: Nit-Picky Theology, Powerful Apologetics, and Keeping Oneself Unstained by the World!

While Chad and Luke are who knows where, Ben and David answer your questions!! They look at apologetics in the context of evangelism, how picky we should be in our theology when working with different churches, if it's right to ignore the law or even culture for the sake of the Gospel and more! David also tells yet another Random Story... this one continuing the trend of people being afraid of him for no apparent reason... Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: htt...

Dec 13, 201852 minEp. 134

Episode 133: Talking Gender Identity, Sexual Brokenness, and the Secular Mindset with Nancy Pearcey!

We had the privilege of speaking to brilliant author and apologist Nancy Pearcey about her book “Love Thy Body.” We discuss gender identity, the sexual brokenness of this generation, and the secular mindset that has led to it. She also shares her story, why she left Christianity and what led her back to Jesus. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rockpriest/ Facebook: https...

Dec 06, 201851 minEp. 133

Episode 132: Should We Ditch the Label “Christian”, God’s Sovereignty and Human Choices, and Are Spiritual Experiences Enough for Sustaining a Vibrant Faith?

On this week’s episode, the guys respond to three compelling community questions. The topics include whether or not we should ditch the label “Christian”, God’s sovereignty and human choices and whether spiritual experiences are enough for sustaining a vibrant faith. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rockpriest/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.j.pierce.5 Follow ...

Nov 29, 201858 minEp. 132

Episode 131: Talking Politics, Homosexuality, and Old Testament Violence with Greg Boyd

Greg Boyd comes on the podcast again to discuss some controversial topics of our culture today. He shares his views on violence in the Old Testament, homosexuality, whether Christians should be involved in politics or not and more! If you’re worried that there is no David’s Random Story, however, fear not, for David tells of what happened when he tried to be nice to some kids at a supermarket… let’s just say it didn’t go as expected… Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Fa...

Nov 21, 20181 hr 5 minEp. 131

Episode 130: Should Followers of Jesus Play Video Games? Are They a Waste of Time, Harmless Entertainment, Toxic and Mind Polluting, or a Genuine Form of Community?

In this episode of the P&I podcast, the regulars look at video games and whether or not followers of Jesus should have any involvement in them. They discuss if there are any major negative or positive sides to gaming and what those might be. Chad also gets his own segment in the podcast and David shares about the time he hitchhiked from California to Minneapolis in David’s Random Story. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce...

Nov 14, 201858 minEp. 130

Episode 129: Why Do Christians Live like the Spiritual World Doesn’t Exist?

While Luke is apparently waiting for someone to return his tiny suit, Ben, Chad and David discuss the spiritual reality of our world, why it seems so many people are unaware of it, and if there is such a thing as being overly spiritual. They also look at whether or not there is something uniquely spiritual about music, and reminisce about the time David hid inside a crypt in an Egyptian Pyramid. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenp...

Nov 08, 201850 minEp. 129

Episode 128: Talking Horror Films, Borrowing Orchestras, and the Power of Art with C&L Artist Philip Shorey!

Steiger artist Philip Shorey (Suitcase Sideshow) joins Ben on the podcast to talk about a music score he wrote to the silent horror film Nosferatu. He shares how he used the movie along with an orchestra to present the gospel to thousands of people at an art festival in Poland and then at a theater in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They also discuss the power of Art and how every artist has a message, whether they know it or not. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: htt...

Nov 06, 201826 minEp. 128

Episode 127: Is Halloween Harmless Fun, Commercialized Evil, or a Unique Opportunity for Impact?

How should Christians respond to Halloween? Is it just harmless fun? Or is there something truly evil about it? The guys get into a rowdy debate over how far is too far when it comes to fantasy and ‘horror themes’ in entertainment. They also discuss whether Halloween can be used as a unique opportunity to reach people for Jesus. Oh! AND a regular contributor to the podcast makes an in-person appearance!!! Let’s just say he dresses like a clown and doesn’t really talk much… Follow Ben Instagram: ...

Nov 01, 201844 minEp. 127

Episode 126: Awakening Spiritual Apathy, Speaking the Truth in Love, & Nigel's Love for Hot Yoga!

Ben and David answer listeners questions during a live stream on Facebook. They look at ways to overcome spiritual apathy, when or how we should point out sin in someone's life, how to help equip churches to reach the lost, favorite bands and much more! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rockpriest/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.j.pierce.5 Follow Chad Instagram...

Oct 29, 201847 minEp. 126

Episode 125: Living in Your Mom’s Basement, Two “Ladies” in the Airport, and the Meaning of Life!

In this episode of the P&I podcast, Ben, David and Luke listen to a clip of interviews that were done on a university campus where people were asked basic worldview questions. They then discuss the predominant beliefs of our culture, what has led to these views, and how they should affect our approach to evangelism David also explains why Chad couldn't be on this episode... apparently it has to do with conspiracy theories, and goes on to tell of what happened when he was going through securi...

Oct 25, 201851 minEp. 125

Episode 124: Talking Loneliness, Letter Writing, and Simple Acts of Kindness with Hannah Brencher!

While all the other regulars are in trains, planes, and automobiles, writer, TED speaker, and online educator Hannah Brencher joins Ben on the podcast. They talk about the increase of loneliness in our culture and discuss some of the ways Hannah has been impacting people all over the world through the organization she founded in 2011 "The World Needs More Love Letters". Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagr...

Oct 18, 201821 min

Episode 123: Irreverent Yetis, Repressive Religion, and Talking Cheek to Cheek.

The guys discuss a cartoon currently in theaters called "Smallfoot" and it's underlying theme of not accepting traditions, religions and questioning everything. They look at the implications of such a message, discuss the importance of questioning traditions and speak of the real need for genuine faith in our culture. David also tells the tale of Paul Yanki, in his Random Story. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow Davi...

Oct 16, 201834 min

Episode 122: Are Churches Promoting a Weak, Costless Christianity? Did David Almost Get a Job?

In this episode of the Provoke&Inspire podcast Ben, David and Luke answer questions that were sent in by our listeners and discuss how the pervasive message in our worship songs, sermons, books, etc., seems to be Christian therapy or wish fulfillment. If this is true, what has led us to this place? What is the danger of this theology? What is the right balance? David also shares about the time he moved to California to play tennis and lay on the beach… Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.insta...

Oct 11, 201845 min

Episode 121: Do Politics Solve Anything, Choosing the Lesser of Two Evils, and Rodent Shenanigans!

How do Christians fit into the two-party system? Should followers of Jesus be involved in politics? Is it valid for a Christian to use the “lesser of two evils” logic when making a political choice? The regulars tackle these tough questions and more on this episode of the Provoke and Inspire podcast! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rockpriest/ Facebook: https://www.fac...

Oct 04, 201844 min

Episode 120: How Should a Christian React to the Ford - Kavanaugh Allegations?

David and Ben discuss the allegations brought against supreme court nominee Brett Kavanaugh by Dr. Christine Ford. They unpack how a follower of Jesus should respond to this highly divisive and deeply personal situation. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rockpriest/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.j.pierce.5 Follow Chad Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chadi...

Oct 02, 201833 min

Episode 119: Herding Cats, David the Laser Praiser, and Useful Christian Doubt and Deconstruction!

LUKE IS BACK! And with all the regulars together, they tackle several topics, including how to show Jesus through your art, life, job, etc, the current trend of christian deconstructionism and whether or not it is or can be a something positive. David also talks about the time he was invited to speak at a church conference in Florida and how he was received after his preaching… let’s just say it wasn’t the most positive response… Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebo...

Sep 27, 201850 min

Episode 118: Holiday Day Inn Hot Tubs, Drug Store Encounters, and Having Godly Ambition!

In this follow up episode to the Casey Neistat discussion we had in Episode 116, the guys discuss the good and bad sides to ambition and what godly ambition really looks like. David also explains in greater detail why Luke has been gone for so long (*spoiler alert* it has to do with Chad’s new fragrance “10,000 Smells”), and what recently happened to him when he walked into a drug store in Florida. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzb...

Sep 20, 201852 min

Episode 117: We Talk to Derek Webb (Caedmon’s Call) About His Edgy Album, Christian Mints, & Bad Art

Derek Webb, best known for his time with the band Caedmon's Call, joins the regulars to discuss his latest album "Fingers Crossed", dealing with criticism, why christian art is many times not confrontational and many other topics... Nigel also sends in a question... and yup, you guessed it, it has to do with Aliens. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rockpriest/ Facebook:...

Sep 18, 201842 min

Episode 116: Casey Neistat Ponders the Meaning of Life and David Is Rescued from a Bug Infestation!

In this episode, Chad, David, and Ben discuss break down famous YouTuber Casey Neistat’s metaphysical musings. What is the meaning of life? Is ambition bad? What does it mean to be happy? They guys contrast what Casey says with how Jesus might respond. David also talks about the time he was rescued from a bug! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rockpriest/ Facebook: https...

Sep 14, 201851 min

Episode 115: Talking Sacred Words and "Honk If You Love Jesus" Stickers with Jonathan Merritt!

Episode 115: Talking Sacred Words and "Honk If You Love Jesus" Stickers with Jonathan Merritt! In this Episode, David and Ben have a very compelling conversation with award-winning religion and culture writer, Jonathan Merritt who has published thousands of articles in outlets such as USA Today, Buzzfeed, The Washington Post, and the New York Times They discuss his new book “Learning to Speak God from Scratch: Why Sacred Words Are Vanishing--and How We Can Revive Them.” In the book, he writes: “...

Sep 12, 201852 min

Episode 114: How Would Jesus React to Colin Kaepernick's Nike Ad?

In this episode, the guys discuss the highly controversial Nike Ad that features Colin Kaepernick. The former NFL quarterback and has become a highly polarizing figure for his decision to protest during the American Anthem before a game in 2016. His actions and the resulting movement has sparked widespread debate and controversy. The guys try to shed light on how Jesus might view this situation and how as his followers we should react. Check it out! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.co...

Sep 07, 201847 min

Episode 113: Talking Alien Abductions and Preaching the Gospel with Tedashii!

We had the privilege of talking to American hip-hop artist Tedashii. He is a member of the 116 Collective (Based on Romans 1:16) which includes Lecrae, Andy Mineo, and Trip Lee. We discuss the importance of sharing the Gospel through music and challenge the commonly held idea that silence will lead to more significant opportunities to share Jesus in the future. Nigel asks a poignant question about Aliens and their potential to influence his musical direction. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.in...

Sep 05, 201855 min

Episode 112: The Age of Selfies, Self Promotion, and Chad’s New Fragrance!

In this episode, David raises the valid question: “what happened to humility being a cool thing?” The guys discuss the vanity of our age, the challenges of using social media positively, and how critical humility is as a follower of Jesus. Oh, and there are three cringe-worthy random stories you won't want to miss! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rockpriest/ Facebook: ...

Aug 29, 201848 min

Episode 111: You're Not as Safe as You Think You Are!

This is part one of a four-part series the guys recorded in person back in April 2018. The series is based on Hebrews 10:23-25 and focuses on how as followers of Jesus we can make a difference in secular culture. In part four, the guys talk the importance of understanding where our hope comes from. They share personal examples of how their personal intimacy with Jesus has sustained through the years of reaching the secular world, and warn of the dangers of trying to do anything apart from it. Fo...

Aug 22, 201834 min

Episode 110: You Can't Change the World Once You're Dead!

This is part one of a four-part series the guys recorded in person back in April 2018. The series is based on Hebrews 10:23-25 and focuses on how as followers of Jesus we can make a difference in secular culture. Part three is all about urgency! How often do we believe the lie that we have endless time? The guys talk about making the most of every opportunity we have to share the truth. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Fol...

Aug 15, 201835 min

Episode 109: Good and Hard Always Go Together! Road Report!

In another "road report" podcast, David and Ben talk about the amazing things God is doing during the No Longer Music tour of Ukraine. Ben brings up the Piece family motto: "Good and hard go together" and they discuss how critical it is to push through difficulties if you want to experience the dynamic calling God has for you. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rockpriest...

Aug 07, 201830 min
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