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

Courage to Stand

September 25, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

We live in a time full of fearful things including disease, social unrest, and personal tragedies. Some of us respond by running from our fears while others mask their fear with fighting and anger. However, Jesus told us that we should face our fears with courage! Author, theologian, and biblical ethicist Dr. Russell Moore will give us a vivid understanding of Gospel courage; but be warned, this is not a call to bold bravado and aggressive action – it’s a call to be crucified! 

Scriptural Solutions in Tragic Times

September 24, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Chris directs us to the Bible as our go-to source for direction and inspiration. Today he discusses the Breonna Taylor case.  We will look to God's Word to find wisdom on how Christians can approach tragedies like these with grace and truth.

The Supreme Court Shuffle

September 23, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

The Supreme Court lost a respected member with the passing of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg.  What can we learn from her life and death?  What does her passing mean for this nation, already unsettled as the November election approaches? And what role do Christian citizens play now?  Author, apologist, and radio host Dr. Michael Brown joins Chris to answer these questions and more.

Never Alone

September 22, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Fear and isolation plague millions of us.  61% of adults and 71% of young adults describe themselves as significantly lonely!  Best-selling author Pastor Max Lucado will bring comfort from the One who never leaves us alone!  Reconnect to the God who is nearer than we can imagine so we are never without help, hope, or strength! 

Unlocking your Love Language

September 21, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

This generation, maybe more than any other, is longing for meaning and love – but how do we access the love God has stored up for each of us? You can find your way to a deeper relationship with God and others!Dr. Gary Chapman and evangelist York Moore will reveal the love languages that God built into each human being so He can reveal Himself to us intimately and individually.

Recovering from Visual Violence

September 18, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

During these past months, images of social unrest, forest fires, street violence, and daily COVID updates have rocked our sense of safety and security. Learn to help heal your mind in a time of unrest as psychologist and MBI professor, Dr. Deb Gorton joins Chris Brooks to address your questions and concerns by bringing Biblical and scientific wisdom to bear on your mental outlook. 

Who Will Lead the Church?

September 17, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

What do we do when great men of God retire or pass on to glory? As one generation moves on, we need to encourage aspiring pastors to pick up the baton and carry the Church forward!  Who are you discipling toward this role or are you one who has God’s call on your life for the pastorate?  We want to hear from you on this thought-provoking edition of Equipped with Chris Brooks!

Without a Doubt

September 15, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Have you ever doubted God’s love or promises to you? Are you absolutely sure that you are a Christian?  Chris Brooks is providing a safe place for you to share your doubts and learn what a Christian is – and is not. Pastor Dean Inserra joins Chris to help you find certainty for your faith and future.

Why Does My Teen Feel Like That?

September 11, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

This 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?Pastor, author, and father Dr. David Murray will help us evaluate the pain our children are facing and direct them to the help they need! National Suicide Prevention Hotline:  800-273-8255

Pandemics, Plagues and Natural Disasters

September 10, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

We know that we are living in unprecedented days as the entire world is groaning with strange diseases, hurricanes, drought, and discord! Never before have we seen so many outbreaks of trouble and turmoil.  As Christians, we know that God uses everything for His purpose.  Dr. Erwin Lutzer will take your questions about what we should be learning from this season of upheaval. JOIN CHRIS BROOKS FOR AN INTERACTIVE MEETING TODAY, SEPTEMBER 10th, RIGHT AFTER THE PROGRAM!!!Reserve your spot by regi...

The CHOSEN TV series

September 08, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Have you discovered the terrific new TV series based on the Gospels of Jesus Christ called "The Chosen"? Join Chris Brooks and talk with Dallas Jenkins, the creator of this series, about the difference Christians can make in the Arts!  Has God given you a passion to be a creative culture-changer?  Don't miss this exploration of Christian influence in the Arts!  JOIN CHRIS BROOKS FOR AN INTERACTIVE MEETING THIS THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10th!   Reserve your spot by registering for this free event on...

Managing Money in Uncertain Times

September 07, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Many of us have faced financial challenges this year. Maybe you lost your job or had to take on the responsibility for other family members. How can you make your budget stretch to meet all your needs?  Rob West, president of Kingdom Advisors, outlines financial priorities and sound Biblical principles for handling your money in a COVID economic climate! JOIN CHRIS BROOKS FOR AN INTERACTIVE MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 10th!   Reserve your spot by registering for this free event on the form below!   

A Manifesto for Social Change

September 04, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

America is clearly in need of spiritual and social change.  We see it in the news and on our streets.  People crying out for peace and safety.Respected pastor and community leader Bishop Harry Jackson discusses the answers to these cries from our fellow Americans.  He brings a manifesto for building bridges of Biblical righteousness and justice. What will it take - and will you help?JOIN CHRIS BROOKS FOR AN INTERACTIVE MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 10th!   Reserve your spot by registering for this fre...

Do I Trust My Pastor?

September 02, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Today on Equipped, Chris addresses the crisis of trust in Clergy that is impacting this generation. How can Pastors regain the confidence of their congregation? Have Pastors lost their credibility with the community? If so, why and how do we repair the breach? Do you trust your Pastor? We will discuss these items and more today. EQUIPPERS - JOIN CHRIS BROOKS FOR AN INTERACTIVE MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 10th!   SIGN-UP INFORMATION WAS INCLUDED IN THE EQUIPPER ENCOURAGEMENT SENT LAST THURSDAY! CHECK...

Parenting in a COVID-Restricted World

August 31, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Many of our children have begun this school year using virtual teaching tools and remote learning.  For some, this is a huge challenge. Are you worried about your child making the grade?  Are they already frustrated with their assignments?  Chris Brooks has invited veteran educator Dr. Kathy Koch to take your questions about parenting well in a COVID-restricted season.  EQUIPPERS - JOIN CHRIS BROOKS FOR AN INTERACTIVE MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 10th!   SIGN-UP INFORMATION WAS INCLUDED IN THE EQUIPP...

How to Address Unrest

August 28, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

How are we to react to the outrage we see on television and social media?  How would Jesus respond if he were walking the streets of our cities? We will examine the ways Jesus confronted the pain and sin of His world and learn to follow His example of living in gentle boldness when Scott Sauls and Chris Brooks team up on this edition of Equipped!   EQUIPPERS - MEET WITH CHRIS BROOKS ON SEPTEMBER 10th!   SIGN-UP INFORMATION WAS INCLUDED IN THIS WEEK'S EQUIPPER ENCOURAGEMENT!!! CHECK YOUR E-MAI...

What Now? Moving into Your Next Season

August 27, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

There are times in every Christian’s life when we must stop and evaluate what our next steps will be - whether it’s a career change, the death of a loved one, college graduation, or re-orienting to life after a pandemic!  We need direction before taking that next step. Moody Bible Institute President Dr. Mark Jobe joins Chris Brooks to take your questions about navigating seasons of change. EQUIPPERS - MEET WITH CHRIS BROOKS ON SEPTEMBER 10th!   SIGN-UP INFORMATION WILL BE INCLUDED IN TODAY'S...

The Power of the Imago Dei

August 26, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Why does our society have such a hard time respecting the opinions of others and treating each other with dignity?  The way we treat each other is due to the way we see each other. Could it be that we have lost what it means to be human and what grounds our humanity in dignity? Apologist Andy Steiger joins Chris to take your answers to those counter-cultural questions! EQUIPPERS - MEET WITH CHRIS BROOKS ON SEPTEMBER 10th!   SIGN-UP INFORMATION WILL BE INCLUDED IN THIS WEEK'S EQUIPPER ENCOURAG...

A Christian Approach to Civic Engagement

August 25, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Chris is ready to take your calls and questions as he leads us in applying a Biblical worldview to key concerns facing believers. Today, Chris asks us to consider how Christian civic engagement should look different from the rest of the world by considering the issues through a Biblical lens and loving those who disagree with us! EQUIPPERS - MEET WITH CHRIS BROOKS ON SEPTEMBER 10th!   SIGN-UP INFORMATION WILL BE INCLUDED IN THIS WEEK'S EQUIPPER ENCOURAGEMENT!!!   

Finding Hope when the Darkness Settles In

August 24, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Many of us have faced some dark nights of the soul in recent months due to health threats and social unrest, or maybe something closer to home has left you battling grief or depression. If that’s you, please join us for Equipped with Chris Brooks as counselor June Hunt helps us find a way through the darkness to genuine joy! EQUIPPERS - YOUR CHANCE TO BE PART OF A LIVE ZOOM MEETING WITH CHRIS BROOKS IS COMING TO YOUR EMAIL INBOX!!! 

7 Ways to Choose Healing

August 21, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

At one time or another, every one of us will need healing.  We may not have chosen the damage of disease, divorce, death or discouragement, but we do have the power to choose to heal from it!  Are you struggling to find freedom and healing?  Bring your questions as counselor Stephen Arterburn leads us through practical, Biblical steps toward a life of wholeness and hope! EQUIPPERS - YOUR CHANCE TO BE PART OF A LIVE ZOOM MEETING WITH CHRIS BROOKS IS COMING TO YOUR EMAIL INBOX!!! 

Prevailing Strength!

August 20, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Why is it so hard to trust God when life doesn’t go according to plan? Bestselling author Susie Larson knows how life’s difficulties can lead to fear - but she also knows how God’s Word strengthens our hearts! Today, Susie challenges us to find the power we need to live victoriously every day of the year by focusing on the faithful promises of God.      EQUIPPERS - YOUR CHANCE TO BE PART OF A LIVE ZOOM MEETING WITH CHRIS BROOKS IS COMING TO YOUR EMAIL INBOX TODAY!!!

Trusting God with your Child’s Education

August 19, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

It’s back-to-school time but this year, many parents have mixed emotions over our multiple schooling options due to COVID-19 restrictions. It can be a mind-numbing decision as we try to choose what’s best for our children. Bring your concerns to the Wednesday edition of Equipped, as we hear some precious reminders from our Heavenly Father who loves our children even more than we do! EQUIPPERS - YOUR CHANCE TO BE PART OF A LIVE ZOOM MEETING WITH CHRIS BROOKS IS COMING TO YOUR EMAIL INBOX SOON!!!

Better than Anti-Racism

August 18, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Chris Brooks is taking a few days to celebrate his wedding anniversary with his wife, Yodit so Collin Lambert will be filling the host’s seat on Equipped this week.  Sociologist George Yancey joins Collin to discuss the shortcomings of anti-racism philosophy and help us find a better, more Biblical way forward!  EQUIPPERS YOUR CHANCE TO BE PART OF A LIVE ZOOM MEETING WITH CHRIS BROOKS IS COMING TO YOUR EMAIL INBOX SOON!!!    

Changing the Atmosphere on Social Media

August 17, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

James 1:19 says “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”  In an age of lightning-fast communication, we need to heed this warning like never before.  Do you struggle to respond kindly and Biblically in online discussions? Today we will find some much-needed wisdom and practical counsel to be winsome witnesses of God’s grace and truth in this social media age!   EQUIPPERS YOUR CHANCE TO BE PART OF A LIVE ZOOM MEETING WITH CHRIS BROOKS IS COMING TO YOUR EMAI...

The Journey to Joy

August 13, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Have you struggled with grief and depression?  What has helped you in your journey to joy?  Dr. Sabrina Black joins Chris Brooks to share professional insight into these mental health challenges and offer practical, Biblical wisdom for pressing through to brighter days ahead! Join the conversation with your stories of finding joy in the darkness.

Engaging a Chaotic Culture

August 11, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Today I want to talk with you about the chaos in our culture. How should Christians respond? Should we "Exit" or "Engage"? As always, we will look to the Scriptures for our answers! Join the conversation today on Equipped! Jim Denison shares great thoughts from Jer. 29 for responding to a chaotic culture.

The End Times Survival Guide

August 10, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

We are living in perilous times. Just look around! Shootings, terror attacks, and violence makes us wonder if any place is safe but Jesus told us these things would happen as history winds down. End times expert Dr. Mark Hitchcock will equip us with Biblical survival strategies in an ever-darkening world and he will teach us to live victoriously through our days.

Stay Salt

August 07, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Do you feel apprehensive when it comes to evangelism? With the rise in hostility toward Christian beliefs, silence has become the default position for many of us, but the world still needs Jesus! Chris Brooks welcomes veteran evangelist Becky Pippert to this edition of Equipped.  Becky has helped believers around the world to find their voice and she can help you, too. Come with your questions as Becky equips ordinary Christians like us to have authentic conversations about Jesus.

The Apostles' Creed

August 06, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

The Apostles' Creed has guided Christian faith for almost two thousand years but is it relevant to modern-day believers? Dr. Al Mohler, one of our nation’s leading voices for Biblical living, will unpack the rich treasures of this ancient statement-of-faith.  He will teach us to live boldly in this post-Christian age, by understanding and applying the transforming truth of God’s Word, wrapped neatly in this simple creed! 

Zealous for Good Works

August 05, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

“How do I help my church make a difference for Christ?” This question burns in the hearts of pastors and church leaders everywhere.  It is easy to lose our focus in all the options for ministry. The answer lies in focusing on the basics. Pastor and author Todd Wilson will help us clearly see the impact on a community when a truly healthy church is on Biblical mission.

Finding Hope when the Darkness Settles In

August 04, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Many of us have faced some dark nights of the soul in recent months due to health threats and social unrest; or maybe something closer to home has left you battling grief or depression. If that’s you, please join us for Equipped with Chris Brooks as counselor June Hunt takes your calls and helps us find a way through the darkness to genuine joy!

A Personal Conversation with Chris Brooks

August 03, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Radio host, Bible scholar and apologist Jeremiah Johnston turned the tables on Chris Brooks and asked him to share how Chris came to know the Lord and to follow God’s call on his life.  They also had a great time discussing God’s heart for the city and what that means for each of us!  It’s a backward broadcast as Chris Brooks sits in the guest seat today on Equipped!

From Social Media to Social Ministry

July 31, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Most churches have embraced social media as a way to promote their programs and services but what if we go beyond that to engage in real digital discipleship.  Chris Brooks will talk with a Facebook staffer about how to do just that! Discover how online ministry is your opportunity to help others grow in Christ!

Embracing Kingdom Diversity Pt. 2

July 30, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

We are living in a time when the world desperately needs an example of unity in the midst of diversity. The Body of Christ can be that example if we clearly understand our mission.  Author and professor Dr. Walter Strickland takes your calls about how to build Kingdom Diversity so we can shine a light in our struggling world! 

Last Times Living

July 29, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

It’s time once again for pastor and culture watcher, Dr. Jim Denison to bring his perspective on God at work in our world! This time we will be addressing the question that many people are asking, “Are we living in the last days?” The conversation is always encouraging and you are welcome to join the discussion, too!

SCOTUS vs. the Church: How to Choose

July 28, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

When should a Church resist the laws, policies, or executive orders of its governing officials? This will be our discussion today on Equipped in light of the Supreme Court decision disallowing churches to meet in the state of Nevada. This article by Ed Stetzer will give some food for thought. "We Can't Roll the Dice on Religious Liberty"

Fighting for your Marriage

July 27, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Sometimes marriage is hard and we must learn to fight alongside our spouse for the good of our marriage.  D.A. Horton and his wife Elicia have learned important lessons about being on the same side of that struggle. D.A. joins Chris Brooks to explore the tension of two people becoming one. What are you fighting for in your marriage? Whether it is communication differences, sex, money, or the spiritual life of the home, join us to learn to fight for each other and for your marriage!

Questioning God – Pt. 3: What about Justice?

July 24, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Have you ever struggled with questions about why God does not disburse His justice in the world? It’s an unusual person who has not questioned the way God works.  Did you know that those doubts can actually pull us closer to God and make our faith stronger in the end?  Listen as Chris Brooks shares an important message about the value of questioning God! 

Defending the Faith We Believe

July 23, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Whether it happens at school, at work, or around the dinner table, we all run into questions about the gospel. Unless we are prepared with solid answers, we may lose opportunities to change a life for God’s glory! Michael Ramsden, president of Ravi Zacharias International Ministries, answers key questions as we learn the life-transforming power of defending our faith!

The Uniqueness of Christian Love

July 22, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Chris always applies a Biblical framework to key concerns facing Christians and others in our current culture. He invites us to embrace the ways that Christians alone can impact those around them. We alone bear the love of Christ so we alone can share that love.  How are you doing in sharing and showing the love of our Lord?

Questioning God – Pt. 2: The Role of Doubts

July 21, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Have you ever wondered if God really cares about you?  If He does, why did He allow bad things to happen?  Chris Brooks reminds us that God is big enough to handle our questions!  Even some of Jesus' best friends doubted His goodness. Chris will walk us through Jesus’ response to them so we can all learn the value of questioning God.

Embracing the Uncomfortable

July 20, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

How serious are you about your Christian life?  If God asked you to do something very difficult, could you obey Him?  Counselor Dr. Deb Gorton brings gentle encouragement to make hard choices by embracing the uncomfortable. Whether it’s a challenging season or a new thing God has called you to do, discover the power of facing your fears while pursuing your purpose.

COVID-19 and a Call to Humility

July 17, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Friend, let’s face it. The Coronavirus has gone on longer than we expected and raised questions we never anticipated. How can we continue to navigate this season with the grace and mercy Christians are empowered to exhibit?  We will hear from a COVID-19 survivor and discuss how these concerns are impacting our churches.

Compassion & Conviction

July 16, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Have you noticed how everyone seems to have a different agenda for addressing the problems in our society?  How can we step into the issues without compromising our Biblical convictions?  Chris Brooks will unpack that question with Justin Giboney of the AND Campaign. Learn to see civic engagement as a way to obey Jesus’ call to love our neighbor with both love and truth.

The Good Life

July 15, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Everyone wants to be happy.  We spend money, time and energy chasing after the good life - but what if the happiness we want isn’t the happiness we were created for?  Today we will hear from former NFL player-turned-pastor, Derwin Gray about the counter-cultural path to enduring joy. It’s a soundly Biblical, thoroughly practical discussion you don’t want to miss!

Warnings in our Quest to Address Rasicm

July 14, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Join Chris Brooks as he shares some warnings and dangers to watch out for in our quest to address structural sins in our nation, including racism and institutional sin.  What does the Bible say about corporate repentance for these sins and how can we better reflect reconciliation as the Body of Christ?  Your thoughts are welcome as we delve into these crucial issues of our day.

Seen. Known. Loved.

July 13, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

This generation, maybe more than any other, is longing for meaning and love.  These longings are rooted in our desire to feel God's presence in our lives.  Author and evangelist York Moore joins Chris Brooks to lead each of us to enter into the love of God and find true meaning of life!  Learn to rest in union with the God of the universe and share His love with the world.

Together Through the Storms

July 10, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Who do you look to when life falls apart?  Who cares for you when you face financial loss, chronic illness, and special needs children? We will hear from a couple who are living through all that and more.  If you need hope in the middle of your suffering, don’t miss their story and the strength they are finding to stand together through the storms!

Defending the Faith We Believe

July 08, 2020 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Whether it happens at school, at work, or around the dinner table, we all run into questions about the gospel. Unless we are prepared with solid answers, we may lose opportunities to change a life for God’s glory! Michael Ramsden, president of Ravi Zacharias International Ministries, answers your questions as we learn the life-transforming power of defending our faith!

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