Equipped with Chris Brooks artwork

Equipped with Chris Brooks

706 episodes - English - Latest episode: 12 days ago - ★★★★★ - 154 ratings

Equipped with Chris Brooks encourages you to grow spiritually, think critically, and live compassionately in your community. Interact with Chris as he empowers you to live out the gospel in a rapidly changing culture. This live, one-hour program, airing weekdays at noon CT, features special guests and welcomes your participation by callling in and by plugging in through social media.

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Episodes

Confessions Pt. `1

June 13, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Have you ever rebelled, missed the mark, or flat-out sinned?  If we’re honest, we can each answer “Yes!”  What is the journey to restoration when we have blown it?  Thankfully, God has outlined the pathway home to Him in  Psalm 51.  Chris Brooks will walk us through the process of confession, step-by-step,  until we find God’s mercy and blessing again. 

Get Married!

June 12, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

What is the biggest predictor of happiness, financial success, and good mental health?  Chris Brooks addresses this with a guest who has studied that question from multiple angles. He says the answer applies to anyone: men or women, those living in urban or rural areas, and people of any ethnicity.  Today on Equipped, discover the answer to predicting happiness and why it works!

Helping Your Teen Overcome Anger

June 11, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Do you have an angry teenager in your house?  From time to time we may all face outbursts from our kids.  Do you know how to help them process their angry emotions in a healthy, productive way?  Coming up on Equipped, parent and pastor Rob Rienow will give practical, Biblical wisdom for helping our teens find freedom from anger!

Does Christianity Still Make Sense?

June 10, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Are you or someone you love wrestling with doubts about the Christian faith?  Bobby Conway has and he was a pastor at the time! Today Bobby shares his journey through chronic doubt to a confident trust in Jesus Christ.  He will also guide you through your own doubts and help you make sense of Christianity for yourself.

The Truth in True Crime

June 07, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Coming up on Equipped, Chris Brooks welcomes cold-case homicide detective J. Warner Wallace. Investigating death has, surprisingly, taught Wallace much about life, the nature of people, and the Truth of the Bible.  He explores the connection between modern behavioral research and the Biblical record. It’s an intriguing look at death, life, purpose, and the Savior. That’s Equipped.

Enduring Friendship

June 06, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

God designed us for relationships but in a culture that prioritizes tolerance above truth, it’s often easier to avoid friendships altogether.  As Christians, we must take a different approach, and apply the wisdom and power of the Holy Spirit to the most challenging people in our lives! Pastor Bryan Loritts brings insights from the book of Philemon about transforming ruptured relationships into friendships that endure!

Should Christians Use Gender-preferred Pronouns?

June 05, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

As Christ-followers, we need great discernment as more and more of our family and friends identify as LGBTQ. What should we do when these dear folks ask us to use names and pronouns that do not match their sex at birth? We'll discuss this together as Chris shares several truths that should shape our answer to this crucial question.

Faith that Lasts!

June 04, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

When it comes to our children, nothing is more important than their walk with Jesus but many of us as parents feel inadequate to disciple our own kids!  Father-son team, Stuart and Cameron McAllister will dispel the myths of Christian parenting and enliven our confidence to disciple our children through their stories of salvation and Christian growth!

Faith Beyond Youth Group

June 03, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Whether you are a parent, grandparent, youth leader, or pastor, our young people need our help. If their faith is going to last, they need to be led beyond head knowledge into totally integrating faith and life.  But what does that look like in the day-to-day?  Youth expert Kara Powell will point the way based on fresh research, theological insight, and plenty of practical ideas for cultivating life-long disciples in today’s culture!

Reviewing Louisiana’s Abortion Law

May 31, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Here at Equipped, we care about life from beginning to end and we care about women facing unplanned pregnancies!  Today Chris takes a hard look at a new Louisiana law banning chemical abortions and its impact on women.  Then we'll hear about students standing for life on our college campuses and what you can do to help!

The Reality of God’s Kindness

May 30, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Pastor and teacher Nate Pickowicz enlightens our understanding of God’s divine goodness and compassion. Where have you seen God’s goodness in your life? Or are you struggling to see God as good right now? Chris and Nate will take your calls as they explore the character of God reflected in the Bible and demonstrated in the world, even and especially in the hard times!

Where Faith Meets Sports

May 29, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Did you know a strong Christian presence exists in the professional and collegiate sports world?  Some of the men and women we look up to have strong testimonies for Jesus!  What does standing firm in your faith in a competitive sports culture take?  Chris Brooks and Jason Romano from Sports Spectrum will answer your questions about succeeding as a Christian athlete when faith meets sports.

De-Sizing the Church

May 28, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Have you noticed how obsessed we are with bigness?  From supersized meals to big-screen TV’s, we think bigger is better even for the Church! Author and pastor Karl Vaters loves the local church! He joins Chris Brooks to help us refocus our goals for Church growth in a way that brings healing, rebuilds trust, and reaches our communities for Christ!  If you have been disillusioned by the American Church or long to see your own church renewed, don't miss this discussion!

How to Heal our Racial Divide

May 27, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Many of us want to heal the racial divides in our nation and just need some objective ways to begin.  Chris Brooks talks with Pastor Derwin Gray who will provide a deep dive into biblical racial reconciliation that is void of critical race theory but is realistic and relational. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is Thursday, April 7!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today

Finding New Life Behind Bars

May 24, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

God is at work in one of the unlikeliest places on the planet…the American Prison System!  Lives are being transformed and rebuilt! If you or a loved one is serving time, hope is ahead! Heather Rice-Manus, head of Prison Fellowship, joins Chris Brooks with first-hand stories of new life behind bars!

Building Your Shalom Plan

May 22, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Are you experiencing real peace and joy in life? The Bible tells us that it’s not only possible; it is God’s will for us! Chris Brooks will examine the ‘theology of shalom’ that helps us flourish in the midst of adversity and affliction with Bible scholar Jeremiah Johnston. He will help us learn to create habits that open the way to genuine Shalom in our own lives.

Billy Graham and a Broken World

May 21, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

John Stonestreet is on the front lines, helping Christians live our faith in today’s society. John joins Chris to discuss the significance of a new statue in the Capitol Building and how to answer youth who want answers for the brokenness of our world!

Preparing to Meet Jesus

May 20, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Are you ready to meet Jesus?  That is the most important question we each must answer!  Anne Graham Lotz and her daughter Rachel-Ruth offer an invitation to you to know Jesus more personally.  We want to be ready when our great Bridegroom returns to welcome us to His eternal home!  No matter what your relationship with Jesus is right now, you will find hope, encouragement, and love on this special edition of Equipped! How to Know Jesus

Daniel: Clash of Cultures Pt. 3

May 17, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

How can we follow Christ when our culture is so distant from God and His Word?  We are not the first ones to live in an ungodly culture.  Daniel endured a lifetime in a nation much like ours in ancient Babylon. Today Chris Brooks shares crucial lessons about the dangers of pride from Daniel 4 to help  us live as a faithful Christians in age of arrogance and evil.

Overcoming the War on Families

May 16, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

The family unit as designed by God is facing stronger opposition than ever before.  Chris Brooks welcomes noted author, government leader, and esteemed pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Ben Carson to share his story and concerns for our country’s future.  Dr. Carson will outline a Biblical family's vital role in our nation and offer commonsense solutions to restore the family to its place in society!  

Campus Protests and Antisemitism

May 15, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

If you watch the news at all, you have seen the stories of campus protests and anti-semitism over the Israeli-Hamas conflict.  How can we apply a Biblical worldview to these events?  Chris Brooks turns to Bible professor and radio host, Dr. Michael Rydelnik for insight on applying the heart of Jesus to our prayers and conversations about Israel, Palestine, and Hamas.  Dr. Rydelnik answers the charge that Jews killed Jesus in this blog post.

100 Questions about God & the Bible

May 14, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Where do you go with questions about God and the Bible?  If you are wrestling with your faith or need answers for someone else, join us today! Chris will talk with a man who has spent 22 years answering millions of Bible questions and he’s probably answered yours! So bring your questions and find solid answers from God’s Word!

Does the Bible Affirm Same-Sex Relationships?

May 13, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Our culture is increasingly endorsing LGBTQ relationships, to the point that many believers and even Christian denominations are endorsing these lifestyles. What does the Bible really say about same-sex relationships?  Author and Christian apologist, Rebecca McLaughlin joins Chris Brooks to open the Scriptures and clearly explain the answer! 

Honoring the Women we Call Mom

May 10, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and Chris Brooks invites you to join him in honoring Moms, everywhere! Share your stories of impact. What shaped you? What lesson or experience helped you become the person you are today? Chris also talks about great mothers from church history. Hear about the role of godly mothers and celebrate their lasting influence! 5 Mothers Who Helped Shape Christian History      

The Practice of the Presence of Jesus

May 09, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

You may know the name Joni Eareckson Tada.  She has spent over 50 years in a wheelchair but she shines with the joy of Jesus!  What’s her secret?  She has learned to practice the presence of Jesus!  Joni joins Chris today to help us experience the joy of actively abiding in Christ moment by moment!

Who’s Reading the Bible?

May 08, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

You have probably heard that young people are leaving the Christian faith but Chirs Brooks has some good news to share!  A new survey from the American Bible Society reflects exciting results about Gen Z‘s engagement with the Scriptures! Join Chris for an in-depth look at the Bible and Christian faith in America! Download a copy of the State of the Bible 2024 Report here.

Political Discipleship

May 07, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Chris Brooks wants to help you live, share and defend your faith in every arena of life, including your role as a citizen of your state and this nation. Today on Equipped, Chris is joined by James Muffett of the Student Statesmanship Institute to explain what it means to be a political disciple and how to live as a Christian in this political age!

Daniel: Clash of Cultures Pt. 2

May 06, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

How can we follow Christ when our culture is so distant from God and His Word?  We are not the first ones to live in an ungodly culture.  Daniel and his friends endured a time much like ours in ancient Babylon. Join Chris Brooks as he looks to Daniel’s companions to answer the question: Is God really all-powerful?

Praying for America

May 02, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

We know that we need God’s Spirit to move in our country and bring revival now more than ever!  Across our nation, Christians are crying out to God. Chris Brooks will join their voices as some special guests lead us in praying for our country's leaders, churches, and families, asking Him for a nationwide hunger for His Word!  Please join us as we seek God’s face for America!

Faithfully Different

May 01, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

We know that the Biblical worldview is under fire in today’s society.  Secularism is even leading some Christians astray. How do we stand strong and respond well to the challenges of cancel culture, progressive Christianity, or deconstruction? Apologist Natasha Craine will help us stay the course, embrace Biblical clarity, and reach the spiritually lost.

Love the Ones who Drive you Crazy!

April 30, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

In every church, there are people whose personalities or viewpoints are not like ours.  It takes all kinds of people to make up a church and we can’t let these differences fray our unity! Today, we’ll learn to navigate these relationships that sometimes drive us crazy and build genuine friendships that bring glory to God!

Daniel: Clash of Cultures Pt. 1

April 29, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

How can we follow Christ when our culture is so distant from God and His Word?  We are not the first ones to live in an ungodly culture.  Daniel and his friends endured a time much like ours in ancient Babylon. Today Chris Brooks invites us to follow the examples of Daniel and his companions for lessons on living faithfully in an evil age!

Conflict[ed] Pt. 3: Reconciliation

April 26, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

As much as we wish it weren’t true, conflict is inevitable and unity is often elusive!  Today Chris concludes his teaching on pursuing peace in a cancel culture by answering the question: What does reconciliation look like? Join Chris in the book of Matthew for Jesus’ countercultural direction for resolving conflict!

Jesus Conversations

April 25, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

We know that many Christians are afraid to share their faith but most of us can carry on a conversation!  We can learn to pay attention to the people around us and ask good questions! Author and apologist Dave Sterrett will guide us toward 7 essentials to the Gospel and encourage us to engage others in Jesus conversations.

Raising Spiritual Champions

April 22, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

According to fresh research by George Barna, our children’s core beliefs, morals, and lifestyles are largely set by age 13. As parents, we have the profound privilege of influencing this next generation of adults.  What are you doing to disciple your family?  Today, Dr. Barna shares an objective, data-based approach for discipling our children, building their faith, and instilling a Biblical worldview. 

Biblical thinking on Election issues: Social Justice

April 18, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Americans will again go to the polls this fall to vote on new leaders.  In this election year, Chris Brooks wants to equip us with Biblical wisdom as we process the political issues of our day.  Coming up on Equipped, Justin Giboney of the AND Campaign joins Chris to consider several of these issues through the lens of Scripture.  EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is this TODAY!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  

The Impact of Going to Church

April 17, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

What difference has going to church made in your life?  What would motivate you to go more often if you don't attend regularly?  Chris shares some powerful data about the value of being in church and its impact on our worldview and approach to all of life! EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is this TOMMORROW, Thursday, April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today

Freedom from Shame!

April 16, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Shame is to the soul what cancer is to the body and can lead to emotional, spiritual, relational, and physical problems.  While there are no magic formulas for healing, Dr. Gregory will show you how wellness and peace can be yours.  Learn the Biblical and psychological principles to help you find freedom from shame. EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is this Thursday, April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today

Leadership for Kingdom Work

April 15, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Christian leaders must walk wisely as they serve and speak God’s truth in today’s culture. Are you prepared to address your leadership concerns with confidence?  Dr. Michael Lindsay joins Chris Brooks to take your questions and offer keen insights and Biblical wisdom to equip you for the Kingdom Work God has called you to do!  NEXT Conference registration link here. EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is this Thursday, April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipp...

Loving Adopted Children Well

April 12, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Today we address a topic that is very close to God’s heart: Adoption. Counselor and family therapist Dr. Laurel Shaler joins Chris to help you navigate the joys and challenges of raising adopted children.  From sibling rivalry to single parenting to finding the support you need, they will take your questions and help you learn to love your adopted child well! EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is next Thursday, April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and ...

A Global Love for God's Word

April 11, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Chris just returned from walking alongside pastors in Ghana, West Africa. The love those fellow believers have for God’s Word inspired him in ways he has never experienced before! Today, he shares what he learned and takes your calls about keeping our time in the Scriptures fresh and vital! EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is next Thursday, April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today

Breakthrough!

April 10, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Many of us read our Bibles and pray, but we can still feel fragile, tired, and defeated.  We need a breakthrough! Dr. Marcus Warner brings authentic answers, combining the Bible and brain science with the Holy Spirit!  This integrative approach will help you build emotional resilience for a new life.   EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today

Conflict[ed] Pt. 2: Pursuing Peace in a Cancel Culture

April 09, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

As much as we wish it were not true, conflict is inevitable. Our current cancel culture method of resolving disputes is rooted in self-protection, not peace!  Today Chris Brooks continues to address the pitfalls of this approach and how to pursue God-honoring reconciliation. Join Chris in the book of Matthew for Jesus’ countercultural direction for handling conflict! EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to...

A Bible Tool for Men

April 08, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Men, we face some unique challenges every day.  Now there is a powerful new daily Bible designed to help us confidently address life’s challenges and decisions.  Bestselling author Robert Wolgemuth will introduce this new tool that will help us jumpstart our walk with the Lord, enjoy a daily time with God, and learn to live like Jesus! EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today

Redemptive Entrepreneurs

April 05, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

In a world that focuses on personal gain, imagine what could happen if we engaged in a sacrificial life by harnessing our career goals to restore broken places and help others flourish!  Chris Brooks will explore the road to becoming a redemptive entrepreneur with Dave Blanchard of Praxis Labs. Catch a vision for investing your skills in creative service to others. EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to a...

Are You Enjoying the Bible?

April 04, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

The Bible is the most-read book in the world. How are you enjoying it? Jim Coakley LOVES God’s Word and wants to help us mine the gems that are ours for the taking in our regular reading of the Bible! If you are just opening the Bible for the first time or your love of Scripture has grown stale, discover the drama and marvels of the Bible today!  EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an ...

When God is Silent

April 03, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Have you ever wanted to pray but just couldn’t?  Or you’ve tried to pray, and God seemed silent?  These are some of the hardest experiences for any of us!  Dr. John Koessler understands these heart-wrenching times and he wants to help you navigate the silent times with our loving Heavenly Father.  Bring your prayer challenges and find the encouragement you need to connect with God. EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equip...

Does God Exist?

April 02, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

How much faith does it take to NOT believe in God? Christian apologist and author Frank Turek says he does not have that much faith! It’s just too hard to believe there is no god.  Bring your questions as Frank discusses the existence of the one true God and how to confidently defend His reality to others. EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today

Confronting Injustice w/out Compromising Truth

April 01, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Micah 6:8 reminds us that God requires His people “to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” What does it look like for a Christian to execute justice with a Biblical vision grounded in the Gospel? Dr. Thaddeus Williams joins Chris Brooks to help us confront injustice without compromising the truth. EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today

I believe in The Sacrifice of Jesus

March 29, 2024 12:03 - 60 Bytes

What we believe determines how we live.  In a world where it’s hard to separate fact from fiction, we need to understand and embrace the fundamental truths of Christianity.  Join Chris Brooks on this Good Friday as he examines this essential truth of Christianity: “I believe in The Sacrifice of Jesus.”   Download your copy of The Apostles Creed.pdf   EQUIPPERS - Our next EQUIPPER WEBINAR is April 18!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become...

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