How real is heaven to you? Even as believers, is heaven just a concept that we read or study in the Word rather than a real, ultimate destination? We read about joy and hope God infuses within us towards, not only heaven, but also to carry us through the ups and downs of this life. Do we truly LIVE this reality out for others to see? Pastor Brian B…

On this "Best Of" episode, Dr. Gerry Breshears of Western Seminary shares two theological trends that have caught his attention. One has been that of local pastors coming alongside to serve their city in the name of Jesus. He also discusses "Theological Tribalism," which has become a trend of "meanness" amongst believers in various evangelical grou…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Today’s culture presents a uniquely intense time to contend for the faith. Pastors Brian Brodersen, Richard Cimino and John Hwang engage in discussion for how pastoral leaders can be properly equipped (and equip their congregation), in order to defend the faith. “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense…” (1 P…

On this special episode of “Things That Matter,” we briefly take a break from panel discussion as Pastor Joel Turner of Mountain Springs Calvary Chapel in Canada traveled down to our studios to share about comedy for a preacher. Through his testimony, Joel reminds ministry leaders and believers alike that humor matters and is a useful tool to conne…

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” Pastors Brian Brodersen, Richard Cimino and John Hwang discuss the essence of the pastor’s calling, as Isaiah 40:11 declares: “He will feed His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and gently lead those who are with young.”…

One of the most important aspects of pastoral ministry is counseling. Pastors Brian Brodersen, Richard Cimino and John Hwang discuss the calling pastors have to give biblical instruction and advice, as it is an opportunity to connect people to the gospel. Brian, Richard and John establish clear definitions and terms that surround the idea of the pa…

On this special miniseries of “Things That Matter”, Pastors Richard Cimino, Brian Brodersen and John Hwang have been discussing topics on Pastoral Ministry. As a pastor or ministry leader, how do you process the command to do the work of the evangelist and do the work of your ministry? As 2 Timothy 4:5 declares, every leader in ministry has the res…

What is biblical exposition? And why does it matter for a pastor? Listen to the latest discussion on pastoral ministry with Brian Brodersen, Richard Cimino and John Hwang on this episode of “Things That Matter”!By Brian Brodersen

How has being a pastor shaped you as being a student in God's Word? And what does that look like on a practical level? Currently, Pastors Brian Brodersen, Richard Cimino and John Hwang discuss Pastoral Ministry on this miniseries panel discussion. We are focusing on the second part, “The Pastor as a Student,” on this episode of “Things That Matter.…

Am I seeking Jesus? Am I preaching to myself, as well as to other people from the pulpit? Welcome to a new miniseries on pastoral ministry with Pastors Brian Brodersen, John Hwang and Richard Cimino. This first installment is titled, “The Pastor as a Christian.”By Brian Brodersen

Welcome to a new season of “Things That Matter!” We look forward to sharing many discussions on theology, culture and current events! Host Pastor Brian Brodersen is joined with Dr. Ed Stetzer of Wheaton College and “Christianity Today,” as they discuss the rise of social media and its effect on evangelicalism, particularly in American culture. Dr. …

To close this season of “Things That Matter,” host Pastor Brian Brodersen interviews Kyle Strobel, professor at Talbot Seminary and coauthor of the book, “The Way of the Dragon or the Way of the Lamb: Searching for Jesus' Path of Power in a Church that Has Abandoned It.” Kyle and Brian discuss insight from great preachers and theologians, such as J…

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” host Pastor Brian Brodersen is in studio with Sean McDowell, apologist and author of several books including coauthor of the latest edition of “Evidence That Demands A Verdict” with renowned father, Josh McDowell. Brian and Sean discuss thoughts on “truth” and how to reflect the truth of God’s word in a post…

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” Thomas Terry of Humble Beast Records addresses the current state of our culture, as creativity is idolized and worshiped. Thomas stresses the need for the church to invest into creatives, disciple them and influence them toward a biblical worldview. In doing so, they may be equipped to use their gifts for th…

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

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

Enjoy this episode of “Things that Matter” as host Pastor Brian Brodersen discusses with Pastor Diego Bitencourt about the culture and ministry happening in Brazil. Through his testimony, Diego shares about his experiences on pastoring in Campo Mourão, Brazil, and provides context for any who may feel led to minister in Brazil.…

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” guest Pastor Daniel Im of NewChurches.com and author of the book, No Silver Bullets, discusses the approach of systems when speaking on ministry as the Church. Daniel gives examples of natural systems such as a root system in a forest, the solar system, and even systems in our own human anatomy that leads to…

Welcome to season 4 of “Things That Matter!” We are excited to share many new episodes as host Pastor Brian Brodersen discusses current events, cultural trends and other things that matter to Christians. On this episode, Pastor Ed Hickey of Calvary Chapel London in Ontario, Canada, discusses the need for ministry leaders and the Church to be availa…

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

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

Studying the Bible: How do we do that? Where do we start? How do we understand the historical context of the Bible? Andy Deane, Director of Calvary Chapel Bible College in Murrieta, CA, shares insight on approaching a study time in God’s Word without feeling overwhelmed. Enjoy this episode as Andy shares different ways to study the Bible with the u…

Enjoy this episode of “Things That Matter” as host Pastor Brian Brodersen shares many laughs with guest comedian Nazareth Rizkallah. Having grown up in the Gaza Strip and moved to the U.S. as a young man, Nazareth shares his testimony that brought Him to salvation. He uniquely provides insight to the tension between Israel and Palestine and how the…

Whether involved in full-time ministry or not, it is vital as believers to understand the importance of both the power of the Gospel and the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. On this episode of “Things That Matter,” Pastor Ray Bentley of Maranatha Chapel talks about this important topic and uses powerful examples from Pastor Chuck Smith, Billy…

As a pastoral leader, have you thought about retirement, the future of your church, succession? On this episode of “Things That Matter,” Pastor Brian Brodersen talks with Pastor Dave Rolph of Calvary Chapel Pacific Hills, CA, about pastoral transitions and succession of ministry. Dave shares that those in pastoral leadership should not be afraid to…

Engaging the culture is vital as a believer to listen and understand the struggles of the community as we share the gospel message and seek to be available to minister. Pastor Tommy Cota of Hope Alive Church in Santa Ana, CA, shares his experience with God opening doors in Santa Ana through school programs like Released Time Education, a contract w…

Marijuana. Is it good for you? What impact does it have on your brain? Does it contain a nutritional value? Is there an answer in the Bible that addresses Marijuana? Pastor Brian Brodersen discusses these questions with Dr. Lu Wing as the U.S. culture is becoming infused with legalized Marijuana use. Dr. Wing, a practicing toxicologist, scientist a…

As a pastor’s wife, do you feel a burden of perfection in your ministry and home life? Enjoy this episode of Things That Matter as Pastor Brian Brodersen interviews his wife, Cheryl Brodersen, on being a pastor’s wife. Cheryl breaks down the difference between “identity" and “role” and encourages women, whether as a pastor’s wife or not, to place t…

Welcome to season three of Things That Matter. We pray that you are encouraged as we start a new topic-driven season. We begin our first episode with Pastor Brian Brodersen interviewing Patrick Johnstone. Patrick is the author of Operation World, which is a compilation of data on missions from around the globe. This book provides valuable informati…

As we close season two of “Things That Matter,” Pastor Brian Brodersen and Pastor Kellen Criswell of the Calvary Global Network (CGN) discuss the work God is doing around the world. From topics on different versions of adversity, missiology, and various types of leadership development, Pastors Brian and Kellen close the season by sharing that while…

Enjoy this episode of “Things That Matter” on podcast, featuring Pastor Daniel Fusco of Crossroads Community Church in the Pacific Northwest. Pastor Brian Brodersen and Daniel discuss the challenges God presents to us in ministry. Daniel shares how God took him from being a hedonist, young college student to a church planter. He also shares how God…

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” Pastor David Zamora shares about the growth of Calvary Chapel Living Way in Fontana, CA. Using his background in gang culture and incarceration in prison, Pastor David discusses with Pastor Brian Brodersen how imperative practical connections with the local community has brought amazing opportunities for God…

Enjoy this episode of “Things That Matter,” as Pastor Lance Ralston of Calvary Oxnard shares about the relevance of church history with Pastor Brian Brodersen. As we celebrate the 500th year of the Reformations in the 16th century, Pastor Ralston recounts the Church’s labor in studying the Scriptures that has led to our verse by verse teaching, a h…

Enjoy this episode of "Things That Matter" as Pastor Brian Brodersen talks with toxicologist, pastor, educator, Bible teacher and church planter, Dr. Lu Wing. Dr. Wing discusses his background in toxicology, the overlapping study of science and the effects of toxins, with the goal to diagnose and treat exposure to such chemicals. He provides a uniq…

On this episode of “Things That Matter,” worship leader and School of Worship (SOW) director, Scott Cunningham, and Pastor Brian Brodersen discuss worship ministry and SOW. Scott shares the history of SOW, as it began 15 years ago through Scott’s involvement with Pastor Joey Buran’s church, Worship Generation, and a vivid dream from the Lord. The s…

Thank you for your prayers while Pastor Brian Brodersen was ministering in Europe during the month of August. We are excited to continue with new episodes of “Things That Matter.” On this episode, Pastor Brian examines the depth of God's grace with Dr. Paul Tripp. They discuss that no one is ever a “grace graduate,” and yet so often in full-time mi…

Enjoy this episode of “Things That Matter” as Pastor David Guzik talks with Pastor Brian Brodersen on Bible exposition, studying the scriptures and Bible commentaries. David is renowned for his work on writing a commentary for each book in the Bible. He is currently finishing the book of Proverbs. David and Brian also discuss the difference between…

Enjoy this episode of “Things That Matter,” as Dr. Gerry Breshears, of Western Seminary, shares two theological trends that have caught his attention. One has been that of local pastors coming alongside to serve their city in the name of Jesus. He also discusses "Theological Tribalism," which has become a trend of "meanness" amongst believers in va…

Pastor Efrem Buckle of Ecclēsia returns for this second part of a two part series on "Things That Matter” as he reacts and shares his views on the resurgence of racial tension. Although this is an unfortunately common issue in the world, Efrem provides his insight. “The reality is we are all sinners,” Efrem explains, and he continues by sharing tha…

On this episode of "Things That Matter," Pastor Efrem Buckle of Ecclēsia in South London presents the challenges of ministry in the complex, urban & cosmopolitan culture of London. Efrem shares his experience & view on not only the complexity of this “city of cities,” but he also discusses the recent acts of terror within the city. Enjoy this first…

Suffering is an inescapable reality. Pastor Brian Brodersen and Pastor Rick Warren discuss the aspects of suffering that often occur in full-time ministry. Pastor Rick shares three areas of suffering that he has continuously dealt with throughout his pastoral career. Whether you are involved in full-time ministry or not, be encouraged that the Lord…

On this episode of Things That Matter, Pastor Brian Brodersen interviews Ryan Ries of the Whosoevers. Ryan briefly shares his powerful testimony but mainly focuses on the example Jesus gave as He reached out to people in very dark places of the time, such as the ancient city of Caesarea Philippi. We each have a calling from the Lord, and Ryan encou…