Equipped with Chris Brooks
706 episodes - English - Latest episode: 28 days ago - ★★★★★ - 154 ratingsEquipped 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
Jesus Loves Me!
March 02, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesIf someone asked you, "What do I need to believe to be a Christian?" what would you say? Sometimes the best answer is the simplest one and one many of us learned in Sunday School in that little song, “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so!” Do you know that Jesus loves you? Do you know why it’s so important for your own life and for those who don’t yet know Jesus? Chris Brooks and Pastor John S. Dickerson review what Christians believe and why it matters!
Hope for the Unemployed
March 01, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesGod allows tough times to strengthen us and unemployment is no exception. Job loss brings unique challenges, which can build up our faith or tear it down. Dale Kreienkamp knows this journey well. Whether you are out of work or love someone who is, listen as Dale shares his story and offers wisdom and encouragement to help you thrive through your transition!
Why Is My Teen Feeling Like This?
February 26, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesThis generation of teens and young adults are struggling with anxiety and mental health issues. How can we know if our child’s “off” days are part of normal emotional growth or if they are signs of something more serious?Coming up on Equipped, pastor, author and father of five, Dr. David Murray will help us evaluate the pain our children are facing and direct them to the help they need!
Hoping for Happiness
February 25, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesIf you grew up thinking that God wants us to be holy more than He wants us to be happy, you are in for a surprise. God wants us to be both! Author and speaker Barnabas Piper joins Chris Brooks with Biblical teaching that acknowledges the hard in life while encouraging the enjoyment of all that’s good!
CRT: finding clarity for the Christian
February 24, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesCritical Race Theory, or CRT, is being hotly debated in evangelical circles. What is it and why is it causing so much debate? Pastor D. A. Horton joins Chris Brooks on Equipped to sort through these questions with clarity and Biblical guidance for Christians longing to embrace our faith while speaking to the ethnic tensions of our day.
Winsome Conviction
February 22, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesAs Christians, we generally assume that those sitting around us in church share our beliefs, but when we discover they don’t, everything changes! Christians often have Biblical reasons for very different positions and these differences have been dividing friends and families, and sometimes churches!How do we discern between core Biblical convictions and secondary issues? Dr. Tim Muehlhoff will help answer those crucial questions and offer guidance for navigating disagreements without destroyi...
Placed for a Purpose
February 19, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat is God doing through you in your neighborhood? We know that life is hectic and we barely have time to lead our OWN families spiritually, let alone spend time with the neighbors! But wait until you meet the McKinney’s. Their story starts with a fish fry and the Lord took it from there in amazing ways! Catch a vision for the ministry of neighboring on this edition of Equipped!
A Legacy of Faithfulness
February 18, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesThe Church has lost a great man of God this week. Dr. Melvin Banks was one of the key evangelical leaders and educators of our time. We will learn from his example of love for the Scriptures and honor his legacy of making the Bible understandable and accessible to African American children and adults. What does a life of faithful service look like? Here is one example worth following!
When Leaders Fall
February 17, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesChris Brooks keeps a sharp eye on current events and issues so he can equip you to think and live Biblically. Dr. Jim Denison is an astute culture watcher and he joins Chris to evaluate recent news from a Biblical worldview. Today we are processing our grief and evaluating lessons to learn from the heart-breaking scandal of Ravi Zacharias.
Lessons from Marginalized Christians
February 16, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesComing up on Equipped, we will visit global Christians who live on the margins of their societies. What can we learn from those who risk their lives simply because they worship Jesus? What do we need to understand about the Gospel message for which they suffer? K.A. Ellis joins Chris to teach us to live with discernment and endurance under trial.
Christian Perspectives on Capitalism
February 15, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesDoes the subject of economics sound boring and impractical to you? Not if we want to be a good steward of the resources God has entrusted to us – and we are not just talking about money! Whether you are a millennial longing to help relieve poverty and suffering or a retiree who has life left to share or simply doing your job day-to-day, there is something for everyone when we gain a Christian perspective on economics.
The Forgotten Virtue
February 12, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesLife is filled with distractions that get our focus off of our spiritual priorities, especially the priority of love. Nothing is more important to God’s plan and purpose for our lives than our commitment to love Him and each other! Chris Brooks takes us into the book of First John to rekindle this forgotten virtue – the one thing that fires all the rest of our Christian life and witness!
Capturing God’s Vision for your Marriage
February 11, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesIf you are married, you know it takes planning and purpose to have a great relationship. As Valentine’s Day approaches, we want to help you find ways to thrive as husband and wife. How can you take your marriage up a notch and fulfill God’s plan for your life together? Rob and Amy Reinow join Chris to offer advice and wisdom for capturing a God-sized vision for your marriage.
Talking to Kids about Race and the Gospel
February 10, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesHave you noticed how little children seem to accept friends of all colors but as they grow, so do their questions? What kinds of questions are your children asking about racial diversity? Trillia Newbell joins Chris Brooks to help us learn creative ways to talk to the next generation about race, ethnicity, and the gospel
Thriving in Your Single Life
February 09, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesThis season of social isolation in the pandemic can be especially hard on singles. Lina Abujamra says Singles do not experience plan B for their lives; rather singleness is God’s perfect place to thrive. Join us as Lina shares practical and biblical ways for finding God’s plan and purpose for your single life - including a special Valentine’s Day resource!
Reckoning with Race and Evangelicalism
February 08, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesComing up on Equipped, we will consider some important questions as we seek to move toward greater unity in our circles of faith. Author and Professor Dr. Vince Bacote will challenge us to cultivate an evangelical movement that is more hospitable to minorities. Open your hearts to go deeper in understanding and including minorities in evangelical spaces.
Before You Split
February 05, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesIf you have been married for very long, there may be days when you wonder if your relationship will go the distance. Maybe you have even muttered those despairing words, “I can’t do this anymore!” You are not alone! Coming up on Equipped, Carey and Toni Nieuwhof share what happened when they found themselves stuck in a troubled marriage and how they built a road to a better future!
His Testimonies, My Heritage
February 04, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesChris Brooks shares a celebration of God’s Word through the voices of women of color. Kristi Anyabwile will introduce us to a new devotional about Psalm 119, faithfully expounded and sprinkled with glimpses into the lives and cultures of remarkable women of faith. Don’t miss their unique perspectives and you might just find your own hunger for the Scriptures growing, too!
Building Mighty Men of God
February 02, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesChris Brooks welcomes Fox Sports analyst and commentator Chris Broussard to the program who will challenge and encourage men, and the women who love them, to step into their God-given potential in every sphere of life.Then Chris Brooks will dig into his library and share his recommended reading list on the contributions of African Americans to Church history!
Help Her Be Brave
February 01, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat would our world look like if every woman felt empowered to choose life for her unborn baby? That’s the question Amy Ford challenges us to consider. Learn how you can provide the practical, spiritual, and emotional needs of women who want to be brave and need our help so that one day, abortion will be unthinkable!
Equipped to Care for Life
January 29, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesMany of us are passionate about protecting the unborn by making our voices heard by our civic leaders. It’s just as essential to show Christ's love to those who are walking the difficult road of an unplanned pregnancy. What can you do to help? Roland Warren, president of Care-net, will help us find our role in caring for these vulnerable mothers, fathers, and babies.
Answering Your Pressing Questions
January 28, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesNormally Chris Brooks asks the questions but today, your questions will drive the discussion. He will open his emails and the phone lines to address crucial concerns you have. Topics will range from eternal security to finding a good church home, to the Christian’s role in shaping the morality of our nation.
What Comes Next? Getting Ahead of Change
January 27, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat if, instead of keeping up with change, you could get ahead of it? Our mission as Christians is unchanging. The world, however, is changing faster than ever before. The realities of life—from how we develop relationships to how we use technology - are key to our spiritual impact. Join us as two amazing innovators guide us through the process of shaping our future and embracing change for the glory of God!
Turn Your Season Around!
January 26, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesDarryl Strawberry is synonymous with baseball and home runs! Every kid wanted to hit like the legendary Straw Man! But Darryl’s personal life was out of control until Jesus rescued, redeemed, and restored him! Join Chris Brooks for a personal conversation with Darryl Strawberry as he shares the real story of his life and the victory he found in Christ. This same victory can be yours, no matter what you’ve done or what has been done to you!
When Jesus says "Follow me”
January 25, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesThe call to follow Jesus is not simply an invitation to pray a prayer; it’s a summons to lose your life and to find new life in him! Our world needs this kind of Christianity! David Platt explores the difference between superficial religion and supernatural regeneration! Find a deeper reality of Christ in your life in 2021! David Platt will be speaking at Moody Bible Institute Founder's Week. Click here for more information.
Restoring the Lives of the Exploited
January 22, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesHuman Trafficking is one of the oldest evils in the world. Exploiting women, men, and children for profit is illegal. When they are rescued, who cares for the legal consequences of the victims after they are freed? Nate Knapper will introduce the exciting work of the Joseph Project - leveraging legal resources to restore lives shattered by exploitation.
What Happens When I Die?
January 21, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesEveryone has questions about life after death. Even strong Christians often ask - What will happen on the day of judgment? Will we have bodies in heaven? And will we be rewarded for living a faithful life? Pastor and theologian Marcus Nodder explains what we can know for certain about death, dying, and life beyond the grave!
God’s Hand in the Headlines
January 20, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesIt’s time once again for pastor and culture watcher Dr. Jim Denison to bring his perspective on God’s work in our world! As a new United States President is inaugurated today, Dr. Denison joins Chris to focus our hearts on God's hand in the affairs of men.
Finding Healing for Broken Relationships
January 19, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWith the rancor and unrest of 2020 in the review mirror, wouldn't it be wonderful if 2021 could be the Year of Reconciliation? What does it take to mend broken relationships and heal the wounds of the past? Chris brings practical wisdom from the Word and prays for healing for our personal and collective relational wounds on this edition of Equipped.
From the KKK to the Cross of Christ
January 18, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesAs a church-going white supremacist, Tom was consumed by hatred for blacks and Jews. Then he encountered the authentic Gospel of Jesus Christ and became a transformed man! His story could have been ripped from today’s headlines as our nation still struggles with racial unrest. His testimony is a much-needed message for our times! Does God still change hearts? See for yourself in one of the most extraordinary true stories you’ll ever encounter!
Engaging with Scripture from a Black Perspective
January 15, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesEvery one of us brings a fresh set of eyes to the truth of Scripture. Reading Scripture from the perspective of Black church tradition can help us connect with a rich faith history and address some of the urgent issues of our times. In these days when we need Biblical hope and spiritual direction, don’t miss this crucial conversation with New Testament scholar Esau McCaulley.
Coming Cultural Trends
January 14, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesThe future is unknown but culture watchers anticipate some crucial trends that will impact the Church and Christian ministries. What are they and how can we effectively address them? Ed Stetzer joins Chris for a very important conversation for Christ-followers, especially if you are in any kind of leadership. Learn to be discerning and wise servants of our Savior as we step into the future. EQUIPPERS - Our 2021 ZOOM MEETING Is TODAY right after the program! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E...
Unmasking Progressive Christianity
January 13, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat is “Progressive Christianity” and what are the implications for our faith? Worship leader Alisa Childers unknowingly had her beliefs slowly deconstructed by this false teaching. She joins Chris Brooks to share her journey back to the Biblical, historic faith and a confident relationship with Jesus. Whether you're a seeker, a doubting Christian, or simply need better answers your faith, don’t miss this crucial conversation with Alisa Childers, coming up on Equipped! EQUIPPERS - Our 202...
Leading with Tempered Resilience
January 12, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesLeadership is hard. Whether you are leading a family, a church, a ministry or a business, the job can be overwhelming. This is especially true in our rapidly changing culture. Professor, pastor, and executive coach Tod Bolsinger will walk us through the many ways God creates leaders who are strong and flexible – like tempered steel! EQUIPPERS - Our 2021 ZOOM MEETING Is this THURSDAY, JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free online time o...
Living Like Jesus in a Divided Nation
January 11, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesIn our divided nation, we need to model the love of Jesus everywhere we go! How are you praying for our nation and loving your neighbors? Mark Jobe and Senate Chaplain Barry Black lead us in practical ways to pray, love, and live like Jesus right where we live. EQUIPPERS - Our 2021 ZOOM MEETING Is this THURSDAY, JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free online time of encouragement, discussion, and prayer!
Mother to Son
January 08, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesAs we enter 2021, race is one of the dominant and delicate issues facing the church. The conversations have been primarily shaped by pastors, professors, and politicians but coming up on Equipped, we will talk to a parent.Jasmine Holmes joins Chris to share from her heart as an African American Christian mom about what she wants her sons to know as they grow and enter the world as black men. EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR...
Christ-centered Counter Culture
January 07, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesYesterday's violence at the US Capitol has left us feeling shocked and dismayed. How can those of us who follow Jesus respond redemptively to this event? Biblical scholar and culture watcher Jim Denison joins Chris Brooks to ground us in Scripture as we look toward the future of our nation.Then, Chris leads us in a timely discussion about the hope and healing that can be ours as we learn to truly love God, love our neighbors, and love our enemies.
Ministry Trends in 2021
January 05, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat does the future of church ministry look like for 2021? Will the changes of 2020 impact how we do church and ministry in the future? William Vanderbloemen helps pastors and ministry leaders prepare for cultural shifts while maintaining a Biblical approach to all we do. He will take your calls and questions as we evaluate the future of Christian ministry. EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and regi...
Equipped to Impact 2021
January 04, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesNancy Demoss Wolgemuth joins Chris Brooks with a spiritual heart-check to start the New Year off with hearts renewed in the Lord. Then Chris reviews some cultural and spiritual trends facing believers this year so we can be prepared to respond as Jesus would. Preparing our hearts and minds for 2021 today on Equipped! EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free online time of encourage...
Make Your Voice Heard in Heaven
January 01, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesIt seems we will do everything to make our voices heard: we march, we post, we tweet, we even phone a friend! Yet, there is one place we often forget to call. We forget to call heaven! U.S. Chaplain Barry Black has seen prayer change many things over the years. He will challenge us - personally and collectively - to pray in a way that God will hear! Don’t miss this New Year’s Day edition of Equipped! EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SE...
The World-Changing Impact of Christianity
December 31, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat would the world be like if the Christian faith never existed? There are people who would like a world without Christians, but what are they really asking? New Testament scholar and apologist, Dr. Jeremiah Johnston will pull back the curtain on the world before Christianity and unveil the far-reaching ways Christianity is good for humanity! EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this ...
Fear Not!
December 29, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesNo one likes living with fear and uncertainty and we have had plenty of that this year! Do you know that, in the storms of our lives, God is doing some of His most important work? One of the best ways to combat fear is to soak in the promises of Scripture. Coming up on Equipped, we hear powerful reminders from Max Lucado about God’s power and promises to keep us safe through every storm! EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MA...
In a Boat in the Middle of the Lake
December 28, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesDoes your life feel like the disciples in Mark 4, stuck in a boat on a stormy sea? Maybe you have lost a loved one or suffered a financial setback. For Patrick Schwenk, it was a cancer diagnosis. Through his journey, Patrick learned that, while our culture values control and comfort, God does his greatest work through our pain. Don’t miss his powerful story of tragedy and weakness transformed into strength and hope! EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETA...
Stories of the Songs of Christmas
December 25, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesDon’t you love the music this time of year? Can you even imagine Christmas without songs like Silent Night, Away in the Manger and the Hallelujah Chorus? Chris Brooks will explore the people and stories behind some of our best-loved songs of Christmas with author and storyteller, Ace Collins! It’s all about the music of Christmas – on this special edition of Equipped! EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure...
Christmas with a Heart of Worship
December 24, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesThere is nothing like music to lift the soul! Christian music artist Anthony Evans has spent his life directing hearts toward the Gospel of Jesus Christ through his songs. He joins Chris to share his passion for worship and focus our hearts as we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Savior! EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free online time of encouragement, discussion, and prayer!
The Gift of Prayer
December 23, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesHave you been enjoying your Christmas preparation and celebrations? We often make great memories and renew close relationships this time of year but some folks are struggling with personal pain and hardship. Dr. Winfred Neely leads us in praying for those who are missing loved ones and facing hardship. Join us for a one-hour national prayer meeting as we care for our hurting friends through the holidays. EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN...
When Christmas Was Just a Promise
December 21, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesChristmas is a time of great anticipation. This was as true for the Old Testament saints as it is for us today! They looked forward to Jesus coming just as we look back on His arrival. On this edition of Equipped, Chris Brooks invites us to view the Messiah’s birth through the eyes of our spiritual ancestors - when Christmas was just a promise! EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this fr...
Balancing Grief and Joy at Christmas
December 17, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesThe holiday season is a time of great joy and anticipation but, for those of us who have lost someone dear, it can be a very sad time, too. A few short years ago, Jonathan Pitts lost his wife. Overnight he became a single dad with four young girls. He will share his story and encourage us as we learn to live life balancing grief and joy. EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free on...
Christian Perspectives on the News
December 16, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesPastor, culture-watcher and medical ethicist, Dr. Jim Denison joins Chris to bring a Biblical viewpoint to stories making the news. Today they will help us respond to the ongoing election conflict and answer some important pro-life questions! Your thoughts and comments are welcome, too, on this informative edition of Equipped! EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free online time of e...
Favorite Holiday Traditions / Prayer for COVID sufferers
December 15, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWe opened the program sharing our favorite holiday traditions. Then, as our nation crossed the somber milestone yesterday of 300,000 deaths from COVID, Chris prayed for listeners and families who have suffered the loss of loved ones or struggled due to the pandemic. EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free online time of encouragement, discussion, and prayer!