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
Because of Bethlehem
December 14, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesChristmas brings sleigh bells ringing and carolers singing and sometimes it brings heartache and hurt feelings. If you could use some true Christmas this Christmas, don’t miss the next edition of Equipped with Chris Brooks. Pastor and storyteller, Max Lucado will unpack the enduring promises of Christmas and help us discover a lifetime of hope because of one baby born in Bethlehem. EQUIPPERS - KICK-OFF 2021 with us via our ZOOM MEETING on JANUARY 14! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INB...
Fear Not
December 11, 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!
Developing a Generous Life
December 10, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesGenerosity is central to our Christian faith: "For God so loved the world that he gave.” But what does a generous life really look like? Coming up on Equipped, we will hear stories of people who have embraced this lifestyle as they began to look at the world through fresh eyes. Together we can follow the example of our Savior by living generously in ways you may have never imagined!
Before You Leave Your Church
December 09, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesThis year, there are many reasons for Christians to re-consider their church attendance, including the physical challenges of the pandemic, the emotional challenges of the election, and unexpected church hurt. Before you leave your church, join Chris for an insightful conversation about thinking Biblically about this crucial decision.Article: Stop! Think Twice Before Switching Churches in 2020
The Christmas We Didn’t Expect
December 04, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesLife is full of unexpected twists and turns but the most unexpected event in the history of the world actually happened over 2000 years ago when God himself became one of us in the person of Jesus Christ. What’s so amazing about the birth of Jesus? Restore your wonder or experience it for the very first time as David Mathis unwraps the delightful surprises and life-altering events of the incarnation!
Jesus – Born to Die
December 03, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWhy did Jesus have to die? His life began with angel choirs and ended on a cruel Roman cross! Jesus is the central figure in the history of humanity and His death changed the world – and it CAN change everything for you! Pastor Marcus Nodder will unravel the questions that plague many people, even Christians, and find their answer in the beauty, power, and reality of the cross!
Life After the Election
December 02, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat kind of influence should we have as Christians in our country, beyond our vote? Chris offers some Biblical principles for our role in the coming days and takes your calls, too - today on Equipped! Andy Stanley's article: What Christians Need to Remember after the Election
Chasing Love
December 01, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesEveryone is chasing love. Everyone wants acceptance. But how? What is the key to finding the love we long for? On Equipped with Chris Brooks, youth expert and apologist Sean McDowell shares the upside down answer to the quest for love. He will also address some very real questions people are asking about sex, love and relationships. The phone lines will be open so bring your own questions about chasing love.
The Witness of Godly Words
November 30, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesAs Christians, we should shine as lights in a dark world but sadly our words often hinder our witness. Do you long to temper your tongue and learn to speak responsibly and civilly? Pastor and author Dan Darling will show us the way! He brings much-needed wisdom for being winsome witnesses of God’s grace and truth to a watching world.
Sex, Desire & Relationships
November 27, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesConfusion over sexuality is tearing families, communities and churches apart! If you or a loved one are wrestling with questions of sexuality, please don’t miss Chris Brooks’ conversation with Dr. Christopher Yuan. He will share his own journey through the gay life and direct us to the amazing love of God expressed in His perfect plan for our sexuality.
A Company of Heroes
November 26, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesIn spite of legal boundaries and political persecution, our God is transforming lives around the globe! This happens as ordinary people risk everything to take the message of Jesus to the hardest places. Their stories will strengthen our confidence in the living Savior and may inspire your own faith-filled risks for the sake of the Gospel!
Heavenly Rewards
November 25, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesThe Christian life is not an easy one. In fact, at times it can be downright hard to follow Jesus. Is it worth it in the end? And does the way we live now as Christians affect our eternity? The Bible says it does! Dr. Mark Hitchcock will help us understand the system of heavenly rewards God offers His children in the Bible and answer your questions about earning your crowns!
Winning the Battle over Trauma
November 24, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesFormer Special Ops Force Recon Marine Chad Robichaux served eight deployments to Afghanistan. When his mental health broke, he almost became a suicide statistic. Now he serves other military vets and their families who need to the same unfair advantage that was his key to wholeness and peace! Don't miss this hope-filled story of winning the war with trauma.
Forgiving What You Can’t Forget
November 23, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesHave you ever felt stuck in a cycle of unresolved pain, playing offenses over and over in your mind? You know you can't go on living like this, but you don't know what to do next. Lysa TerKeurst has endured devastating, public heartbreak and has wrestled her way to freedom. Is it time to get real about your pain? Lysa will help you move forward in life!
Helping Families Thrive through the Holidays
November 20, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesHow are your holiday plans coming along? We know that this Thanksgiving and Christmas will be very different from what we are used to! What are you doing to engage your children and help your marriage thrive - especially as we face the challenges of 2020? Kathy Koch with CelebrateKids and Dave & Anne Wilson from Family Life Today will help us deepen our family ties and honor God through this unique holiday season!
Rediscovering Jesus
November 19, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat do you really know about Jesus? Our culture and even many Christians put Jesus into boxes which don’t hold up under scrutiny. If you need a fresh look at the real Jesus who walked this earth, join us for a journey through the book of Luke. You will rediscover the Savior of our souls who longs for a relationship with us!
Responding Courageously to Culture’s Assault on Christianity
November 17, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesChristians in America are feeling the sting of hostility as our society falls farther away from God. How should we respond? Dr. Erwin Lutzer longs to see Christians unashamedly uphold biblical values in a way that responds effectively to a culture lost in spiritual darkness. He takes your questions about boldly stepping into the arena of adversity with a winsome witness.
Find Joy!
November 16, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWhen life is overwhelming and the daily demands increase, one of the first things we lose is our joy. Social researcher Shaunti Feldhahn says finding joy is more than just thinking happy thoughts! She joins Chris Brooks to guide us through 8 elements for finding wonder in the midst of everyday life - all based on Scripture and Science!
Better Decisions – Fewer Regrets
November 13, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesHow do you feel about the direction of your life? Most of us don’t plan to complicate our lives with bad decisions but many of us have no plan to make good ones. Better decisions can lead to long-term impact and a life story worth celebrating! If you need a decision-making filter to open up choices that will lead to good, godly outcomes, catch Chris Brooks’ conversation with Andy Stanley today!
A Manifesto – A tribute to Bishop Harry Jackson
November 12, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesOur nation lost a great man of God this week, when Bishop Harry Jackson passed into heaven. Bishop Jackson served his God and his country well, humbly speaking God’s truth to all he met. Today on Equipped, Chris Brooks shares his recent interview with Bishop Jackson where he spoke of the crucial need for Christians to build bridges of righteousness and justice in our country. Don’t miss his timely message!
Telling a Better Story
November 11, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesIn today’s society, those who tell the stories control the cultural narrative. This is why it is crucial that we share the story of our faith while respecting the unbeliever and keeping the focus on Jesus. Cultural apologist, Josh Chatraw joins Chris Brooks to will help us speak into a skeptical post-Christian culture in a way they will hear. We can all learn to tell the Gospel story better.
Scriptural Solutions for Life
November 10, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesThis is your opportunity to go one-on-one with Chris Brooks as he directs us to God’s Word as our go-to source for direction and inspiration. In these days with more questions than answers in our culture, Chris will look at events and issues impacting our lives and open the phone lines for your comments and questions as together we seek Biblical answers to real-life questions!
Encouraging Teens in Uncertain Times
November 09, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesOur nation has experienced some unprecedented times recently. How are you processing this with the young adults in your circle of influence? What are you communicating that will help hold their faith strong in these uncertain days? James Muffett, a man who trains some of our nation’s finest young people, will help us encourage our teens to navigate life in the light of God’s Word!
The Witness of Godly Words
November 06, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesAs Christians, we should shine as lights in a dark world but sadly our words often hinder our witness. Do you long to temper your tongue and learn to speak responsibly and civilly? Pastor and author Dan Darling will show us the way! He brings much-needed wisdom for being winsome witnesses of God’s grace and truth to a watching world.
Loving Well Across Party Lines
November 05, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWe are living in some very challenging days as our nation is deeply divided with worldviews in conflict. How can we as Christians live as ambassadors for Christ in this current cultural climate? Pastor Scott Sauls has some fresh thoughts on what it means to love as Jesus does in a time of hate and division! Bring your questions about loving others when we don’t agree.
A Christian Perspective on our Times
November 04, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWe live in amazing times as followers of Jesus! If you listen often to Equipped, you know that Chris Brooks loves to trace the hand of God through the affairs of men! He will do just that with pastor and culture watcher Dr. Jim Denison. Together they will take your calls and questions while offering a Biblical perspective on the presidential election and our role as Christ-followers in today’s culture.
Election Day Prayer Coverage
November 03, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWe are entering into a significant day in our nation’s history as Americans go to the polls to elect a new president. If ever there was a time to pray for our country it is now. As Christ-followers, we are here for such a time as this! Won’t you take an hour and join us as some special guests lead in prayer for our nation, for our political leaders, for the Church, and for ourselves? Don’t miss this vital hour of prayer. EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS TOMORROW! DETAILS HAVE...
Thinking Christianly about Election Day
November 02, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesAs our nation prepares for another momentous election, we need to be spiritually and mentally prepared. Chris Brooks and John Stonestreet, president of the Colson Center for Christian Worldview, remind us of the many ways our Biblical worldview shapes our approach to our outlook on the election and the results. Ultimately, they will point us to the One who is sovereign over all the affairs of men. EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E...
Face to Face Connections
October 29, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesMost teens would actually prefer to talk to someone face to face than on a screen, but they still soak up hours of on-line entertainment. If you are looking to move from a screen-life to a real life, don’t miss the next edition of Equipped! Youth expert Jonathan Mckee reveals some amazing ways teens and adults can take control of our devices and start enjoying real, authentic relationships! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL I...
Martyrs for Christ
October 28, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesThey are the ultimate Jesus Freaks - the faithful martyrs for Christ. Did you know that there are more Christian martyrs today than there were in the days of the Roman Empire? According to the Center for the Study of Global Christianity, more than 150,000 Christians are martyred every year. Todd Nettleton shares their stories and invites us to care for those they leave behind. EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure a...
One on One with Chris Brooks
October 27, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesChris is ready to take your calls and questions as he leads us in applying a Biblical worldview to key concerns facing believers today. Together, we will grow spiritually, think critically, and live compassionately among our family, friends, and neighbors. Get in on the discussion on this edition of Equipped! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free online time of encouragement, discussion, ...
Cultural Intelligence
October 26, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesHow would you rate your cultural intelligence? It is vital for Christians to understand the realities of our current culture so we can meet people where they are with the love and truth of Christ. Chris Brooks and Bible teacher Dr. Darrell Bock will remind us of the Apostle Paul’s methods of engaging his culture with the truth of the Gospel. Together we will learn to find wise and winsome ways to reach our world for Jesus! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS...
The Pioneer’s Way
October 23, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesIt’s always important to have great leaders but before leaders come pioneers – the risk-taking visionaries who inspire others to join them in a venture to improve life. Dr. Jennifer Epperson believes there is a pioneering spirit in each of us. Learn to lead a trail-blazing life that builds meaning for your family, your community, and you! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free online time...
Responding to Pain & Adversity / SCOTUS Confirmation Hearing
October 22, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesNational and international news stories often bring opportunities for Biblical conversations and that is no less true today! Dr. Jim Denison is a pastor and culture watcher who blogs regularly on current events. He joins Chris to discuss several news stories from a redemptive perspective – bringing the hope of the Gospel to all of life! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free online time o...
What is the Gospel?
October 21, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesHave you lost the wonder of the Gospel message? Does your faith feel sluggish? Pastor and author Greg Gilbert will remind us that the more we understand about the Gospel, the more we believe it, and rely on it, the more we adore God both for who he is and for what he has done for us in Christ. Join Chris Brooks on Equipped for a fresh look at the Gospel and regain the joy of walking with Jesus! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MA...
Models of Evangelism
October 20, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesFor a long time, evangelism has had a bad name as Christians tried to fit into evangelistic programs that felt awkward and stiff. There is no one-size-fits-all model when it comes to sharing the Gospel message! Evangelists come in all shapes and sizes. Are you looking for fresh inspiration to share your faith? Today we draw courage from the lives of some amazing folks who led the way and spoke boldly in the harshest of times. EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETA...
Recognizing the Worth of My Pastor
October 19, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWe love and value our Pastors, don't we? What is the best way to show our appreciation to these folks who serve us so faithfully week in and week out? We will take your ideas and share some solid suggestions, too. This year has been unusually challenging for church leaders. Chris will also encourage those in leadership to navigate this season well! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free onl...
Challenging Conversations
October 16, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesMany of us struggle when controversial topics arise between believers. Whether we feel ill-equipped or just plain fearful of conflict, we can’t always avoid tough topics like racism, politics, or homosexuality. If you are facing a challenging conversation, don’t miss the next edition of Equipped as pastor and Christian apologist Jason Jimenez explains how to tackle difficult topics by being an advocate for Christ in every conversation! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING N...
Raising Healthy Teens
October 15, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesHow are the teens in your life faring in this season of COVID and virtual schooling? Today I will talk about how we can help them experience spiritual mental and emotional health now and what parents can do to help! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Be sure and register for this free online time of encouragement, discussion, and prayer!
The Beauty of Faith in a Secular Age
October 14, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesStories are powerful because they capture our imagination! Jesus was the master story-teller and he certainly captured the hearts and minds of his followers! To reach this generation with the Gospel, we must learn to speak this language! Justin Baily teaches us to draw on the resources of the imagination to help doubters gain a sense of what authentic Christian faith looks and feels like through a fresh approach to apologetics! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! D...
A Biblical View of the Ballot Box
October 13, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesAs Christians, we hold a unique responsibility in society. We are commanded to obey the governing authorities and seek the good of our nation while yielding our ultimate allegiance to Christ. Theologian and author Dr. Vince Bacote and Chris Brooks will explore how we make that practical. Learn to carry out our civic duty as Christians in a fallen world! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX! Be sure and register for this fr...
Talking to Your Kids about Jesus
October 12, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat is a Christian parent’s biggest concern? Isn’t it to see our children walking with the Lord? Each of us must have important conversations with our children about Jesus – it’s a job we cannot delegate to the church or youth pastor but where do we start? Natasha Crain joins Chris Brooks with practical insights for addressing faith-filled truth and tough topics with your kids! EQUIPPERS - OUR POST-ELECTION ZOOM MEETING IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX! Be s...
Multiethnic Conversations
October 09, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWhen a congregation reflects the racial diversity of its community and the unifying love of Jesus people take notice! Today we learn important ways to transform our minds, attitudes, and actions to enthusiastically embrace cultural change - and it all begins with conversations! Learn to listen well for the glory of God and the unity of the Church! EQUIPPERS - OUR NEXT LIVE ZOOM MEETING WITH CHRIS BROOKS IS COMING NOV. 4! DETAILS HAVE BEEN SENT TO YOUR E-MAIL INBOX!
Science and Religion – can they co-exist?
October 06, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesCan science explain everything? Many people think so - but are there questions science simply cannot answer? Renowned mathematician and Christ-follower, Dr. John Lennox explains the necessity of living at the intersection of both science and Christianity in order to understand the universe and ourselves.
Evangelizing Today
October 05, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesThe past few months have changed the way we interact with each other due to social distancing, unrest, and COVID concerns. So just how do we reach out to friends, family, and our community with the hope of the Gospel? Kevin Palau serves in the city of Portland, Oregon a town turned upside down in unrest. How does he share the truth of Jesus in these troubled times? Find out on this edition of Equipped!
Is God Anti-Gay?
October 02, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesIs God anti-gay? One of the thorniest issues facing Christians in America is how we effectively minister to friends and family in lesbian, gay, and transgender lifestyles. Sam Allberry is a Christian who knows this struggle. He will teach us to live out our faith and share the love of Christ without compromising truth.
Giving Well
October 01, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWe all want to make wise financial decisions, especially when it comes to supporting the Lord’s work. What area of giving is most challenging for you? Is it deciding where to give, how much to give, or how to avoid charity scams? Pastor Brian Kluth helps churches and ministry leaders make compassionate and careful giving choices. He joins Chris to teach us to be wise financial investors for eternity!
Why I am Pro-Life
September 30, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat does it mean to care for the least of these, for those little ones who have no voice? The issues are complex and the answers can be difficult for those facing an unplanned pregnancy. Chris will lead us in a critical conversation about the false views of reality that confuse young mothers facing life altering choices. He will also offer real hope for a joy-filled future by the grace of God and the love of His people!
Being a Good Pastor in a Pandemic
September 29, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat does it take to be a good pastor in this season of pandemic and division? And what do you expect of yourself as a church member to keep your church healthy and help him be the pastor he needs to be? We talk together about it today on Equipped! Article on being a good pastor in a pandemic What is a Healthy Church Member? book
Spiritual Warfare in a Society
September 28, 2020 12:03 - 60 BytesIs Satan real or is he simply a character invented for our entertainment or nightmares? Should Christians be concerned about demons and their influence in our lives or our nation? We will explore the answers to these and other questions with Dr. Marcus Warner, president of Deeper Walk International. He will take us into the Word of God so we can be equipped to live victoriously in Christ.