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 259: Special Guest Matty Mullins: Crisis, COVID-19, and the Importance of Art!

In this episode, Ben and the regulars are joined by Memphis Mayfire vocalist Matty Mullins! They catch up with Matty and discuss the importance of art and creativity during these difficult times, and how it serves as a witness to our being made in the image of God. 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 Ch...

Jul 13, 202030 min

Episode 258: Can Anyone Really Be "Good?"

In this edition of Provoke & Inspire, Ben is joined by Courtney, Jodi, and Ania for a discussion on Goodness - a fruit of the spirit as described in scripture. As the title suggests, they examine the idea of people embodying Goodness in their lives, and how the Holy Spirit fits into the equation. To learn more about Steiger International visit: www.steiger.org Questions, comments or feedback? We'd love to hear what you think! Send them to: provokeandinspire@steiger.org Follow Ben Instagram: ...

Jul 10, 202057 minEp. 258

Episode 257: Why Is It So Hard to Tell Someone About Jesus?

In this episode, Ben and the regulars discuss the difficulty in sharing the Gospel and why Christians so ubiquitously shy away from it. They discuss taking risks, motivations, and the idea of spiritual apprenticeships in the church. 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.instagr...

Jul 08, 20201 hr 3 minEp. 257

Episode 256: Special Guest Tim Keller! Is the Church Called to Be a Moral Voice in Culture?

In this episode (originally recorded in November 2019), Ben, David, and Luke are joined by Tim Keller for a discussion on presenting Jesus to a culture that rejects the moral claims of Christianity. Learn more about Tim Keller here: https://timothykeller.com/ 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 Ins...

Jul 06, 202030 minEp. 256

Episode 255: Am I Cool Enough?

In this episode, Ben is joined by Aaron, David, and Luke for a discussion on trends and utilizing the tools of our age for the gospel without being corrupted by them. 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/chadisliving/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chadislivi...

Jul 02, 202054 minEp. 255

Episode 254: Waiting on God in a Hurried World!

In this episode Ben, Courtney, Ania and Jodi talk about the spiritual fruit of patience and how we can develop it in an age of insta-everything. 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/chadisliving/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chadisliving/ Follow Luke Instag...

Jul 01, 202054 minEp. 254

Episode 253: Society Cannot Be Fixed, So Just Preach the Gospel?

In this episode, Ben is joined by Luke, David, and Aaron for a discussion on whether or not we as Christians should aim to change society, or if we should simply focus on preaching the gospel, knowing that society is hopeless. 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...

Jun 29, 202054 minEp. 253

Episode 252: Find Rest for Your Restless Heart!

In this episode, Ben is joined by the Ladies (Courtney, Jodi, and Ania) for a discussion about anxiety and true peace, as described in the scriptures to be a fruit of the spirit. They discuss Tim Keller framing anxiety as "to be in pieces," and how we can trust God as our singular anchor in life. 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.faceboo...

Jun 26, 202052 minEp. 252

Episode 251: Special Guest Greg Boyd!

In this episode, Ben, David, Luke, and Chad are joined once again by pastor and speed-metal drummer Greg Boyd! On the topic of racism, they discuss how as a society, we, whether consciously or unconsciously, tend to defend the structures in life that 'work for us,' even if that structure or system oppresses other people. They also discuss how people are held individually responsible by God, though we live in light of these systems. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Face...

Jun 24, 20201 hr 8 minEp. 251

Episode 250: Special Guest Shane Claiborne! - "Faith Detached From the Hurting Grows Stale!"

In this episode, Ben, Chad, and David welcome Shane Claiborne back to the show for a conversation about how we should live as Christians during this time, how we can embrace a lifestyle of non-violence, and see God's kingdom come in the area of racial reconciliation. 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 ...

Jun 20, 20201 hr 1 minEp. 250

Episode 249: God Calls Us to the Battle, but Why Go?

In this episode, Ben is joined by Courtney, and Jodi for a discussion on entering the battle of faith, finding true rest, and how Jesus radically redefines it all. To learn more about Steiger International visit: www.steiger.org Questions, comments or feedback? We'd love to hear what you think! Send them to: provokeandinspire@steiger.org Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpie...

Jun 18, 202051 minEp. 249

Episode 248: Why Am I Not Experiencing God’s Power in My Life?

In this episode, Ben is joined by Chad and David for a discussion on God's power, and 2 Timothy 2:3-5. They discuss questions such as, "what does it mean to be a soldier?" and "why did Paul liken the Christian life to being one?" They also ask, "what is the posture of a follower of Jesus to a very broken world? Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram:...

Jun 16, 202051 minEp. 248

Episode 247: Want to Grow? Find a Coach and Ditch the Critics!

Our culture praises superficial understanding and expressing opinions, often without the expertise to do so. But one thing that is not valued in our culture is humility, and admitting that we need to grow. One of the greatest barriers to growth of every kind is the unwillingness to acknowledge and learn from our mistakes. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David...

Jun 12, 202057 minEp. 247

Episode 246: The Dangers of 'Cancel Culture' Outside AND Inside the Church!

In this episode, the guys (plus Aaron) explain the phenomenon known as 'Cancel Culture.' The idea that a person of influence is publicly shamed and/or de-platformed because they express an opinion that falls outside of mainstream ideology. They discuss the often overlooked 'Cancel Culture' in Christian culture, and why this is so dangerous. You won't want to miss this critical conversation! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/ben...

Jun 11, 202046 min

Episode 245: Tribalism and the Lost Art of Nuance!

In this episode, Ben, David, Luke, Chad, and Aaron discuss the ability to discern truth in an age of tribalism, bias, and binary thinking. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce 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/chadisliving/ Facebook: https:...

Jun 09, 202049 minEp. 245

Episode 244: A Worldview That Actually Leads to Justice. Featuring Professor Nancy Pearcey

In this episode, Ben, Chad, and Luke are joined once again by Professor Nancey Pearcey for a discussion on human value, sexuality, worldview, and being made in God's image. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce 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....

Jun 06, 20201 hr 1 minEp. 244

Episode 243: “This Isn’t Just a Skin Problem, This Is a Sin Problem!"- Cyrena Bell Denniston.

In this episode, Ben is joined by the ladies and special guest Cyrena Bell Denniston - worship leader and vocalist for the metal band 'Seed' in Minneapolis, MN. They discuss how, in light of the tragedy of George Floyd - as well as the systemic racism in our world, we need to take advantage of this window where people will actually listen, and ask ourselves, "what are we going to do to change ourselves in this time?" Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://tw...

Jun 04, 20201 hr 4 minEp. 243

Episode 242: Words CAN Change The World!

In this episode, Ben, David, Chad, and a mysteriously tardy Luke come together for a conversation on the power of speech, and how it can indeed change the world. In light of the worldwide outrage surrounding the death of George Floyd, including the millions stating their opinions online, one can feel that his/her voice has no effect in the grand scheme of things. The guys discuss, with the help of impeccable Jordan Peterson logic, that whoever you are, you need to be speaking, because your voice...

Jun 02, 202059 minEp. 242

Episode 241: George Floyd's Murder and What It Says About Us. Featuring Laurel Bunker!

In this episode Ben invites Laurel Bunker from Minnesota's Bethel University onto the show, along with Aaron Pierce, for a heavy discussion on the murder of George Floyd, which took place in Minneapolis earlier this week. Relevant Links: Hero Of The Empire by Candace Millard - https://amzn.to/2XoIHxA The Willie Lynch Letter: The Making of a Slave by Willie Lynch - https://amzn.to/3eJ4fuv Before The Mayflower by Leron Bennett Jr. - https://amzn.to/3dEme56 Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagr...

May 29, 202044 min

Episode 240: Jesus Can Restore Broken Relationships!

In this episode, Ben is joined by Courtney, Jodi, and Ania again - this time to discuss the importance of working to restore broken relationships in our lives. They talk about how we so often find ourselves stuck in unforgiveness, either as the victim or the perpetrator, and how God desires for us to be free through reconciliation - the very thing he offers us through the cross. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce F...

May 28, 20201 hr 5 min

Episode 238: John Mark Comer (This Cultural Moment) and the Ruthless Elimination of Hurry!

In this episode, the guys sit down with John Mark Comer of Bridgetown Church for a conversation on the topics of spiritual formation, as well as hurry and how it affects our spiritual lives negatively. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce 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 Inst...

May 22, 20201 hr 2 minEp. 238

Episode 237: Your Social Media Rants Aren’t Changing the World!

In this episode of Provoke&Inspire, the regulars discuss the importance of winning people, and not arguments. They also talk about the importance of love, acceptance, and the cultural temptation of ours to weigh in on every topic under the sun - even on matters we know very little about. Don't miss this great conversation on P&I! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpie...

May 21, 202055 min

Episode 236: Is It Time to Change What You're Doing?

In this episode, the guys discuss how to know whether or not to continue in what you feel called to, or when to change direction. They also discuss what to do if you are on the right path, but stray into wrong motives; as well as fundamentally committing to God, and living life as He leads you through it. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https...

May 19, 202059 minEp. 236

Episode 235: Our Response to the Shooting of Ahmaud Arbery. Featuring Moah Buffalo!

We invited Moah Buffalo, a long time friend, and Steiger missionary, to reflect on the Ahmaud Arbery shooting. He shares stories of the racism he's personally experienced, and how God has given him the strength to share his love in these terrible situations. You won't want to miss this powerful episode! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https:/...

May 16, 202054 minEp. 235

Episode 234: Do Our Feelings Matter?

In this episode of Provoke&Inspire, the ladies, plus Ben, talk discuss the hot topic of feelings and emotions. They discuss how we all have days of feeling "off."; that it's part of the human experience. But they also ask, "How do we sort between valid and invalid emotions and feelings?" And what role do feelings play in the life of a follower of Jesus? Don't miss this critical episode of P&I! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetig...

May 14, 202055 minEp. 234

Episode 233: Talking the Death of Christian Art With Josh Porter (Showbread)

In this episode, the guys talk with Josh Porter, former singer of the band Showbread! They discuss how we are being formed spiritually by outside forces, whether we like it or not, how we need to embrace the disciplines of our faith, and how Christian art can be so dead. Nigel attempts to gain Josh as a supporter, and Chad’s features shine on this episode of Provoke & Inspire! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce...

May 12, 20201 hr 8 min

Episode 232: Clear Gospel, No Compromise! Bringing Jesus to the Secular World.

In this episode, we discuss how to share the Gospel with relevance and love, without compromising the essence of the message! We invite a friend of the show, Luke Collis, to share his experience as an evangelist in New Zealand! This is a critical discussion for every believer! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nzbenpierce Follow David Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_rock...

May 09, 202058 min

Episode 231: Have We Become Slaves to Freedom?

In this episode of Provoke&Inspire, Ben, Courtney, Ania, and Jodi talk through the culturally rampant topic of individualism. They discuss how we've been programmed to be independent, not to trust people, and how this leaves us lonely. They also talk about how, in this culture, we end up running from the relationships that would be the best for us. Jodi shares a random story involving peanut butter and rodents and living in Amsterdam. This and much more quality listening on today's P&I! ...

May 07, 20201 hr 1 minEp. 231

Episode 230: Is It Time for Celebrity Christianity to Die? Featuring Tommy Green!

In this episode, Ben, David, Luke, and Chad talk with Tommy Green, former frontman for the band Sleeping Giant. They talk about Christian celebrities, transitions in life and ministry, and whether God is using the current crisis in teaching the church to better embrace authentic community. Luke pushes his new non-profit, "Fruit Boots 4 Life", and much more on today's P&I! Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierce Face...

May 05, 202057 minEp. 230

Episode 229: John Cooper Of Skillet Talks Staying Close to God During a Pandemic

In this episode, Ben, David, Luke, and Chad are joined again by Skillet frontman John Cooper! They discuss how the current pandemic has stripped away all of the things that we as a society have put our faith in, how technology is unable to meet our spiritual needs, and how powerful the word of God is as we read it. David shares a story involving a former band member named Klondike, and the Rolling Stones. All of this and more. Follow Ben Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierce Twitter: ...

May 02, 202046 min
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