Equipped with Chris Brooks artwork

Equipped with Chris Brooks

691 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 20 hours 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

Organic Disciples

January 07, 2022 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Are you satisfied with your spiritual growth or do you long for a closer relationship with Jesus? Catch a fresh vision for your walk with Christ on the next edition of Equipped. Kevin & Sherry Harney of Organic Outreach talk with Chris Brooks about the marks of spiritual maturity and the often-overlooked key to real growth in Christ! Discover discipleship from the inside out! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is next Thursday, January 13!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not...

Dealing with Doubt

January 06, 2022 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Are you struggling with doubts about your faith?  How can we address the questions when we are afraid to ask them out loud? Find your safe place for dealing with doubt on the next edition of Equipped when Chris Brooks talks with Clare Williams from the UK about what leads us to question our beliefs and how to find the answers we so desperately need.  EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is next Thursday, January 13!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to a...

Developing Your Mental Health Plan

January 05, 2022 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Our mental health is as important as our physical health and possibly even more essential to our long-term health!  So before you sign up for a gym membership or download another workout plan, consider strengthening your mental and emotional outlook!  Author and counselor, Dr. Sabrina Black will help us develop a comprehensive, practical plan to improve our mental fitness. Develop your mental resilience today! National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 800-273-8255Moody Counseling Center EQUIPPER...

Equipped to Impact 2022

January 03, 2022 12:03 - 60 Bytes

A New Year is a tremendous time to prepare our hearts to be salt and light in our spheres of influence!  On this first Equipped broadcast of 2022, Chris will review some of the cultural and spiritual trends facing believers so we can meet them with Biblical wisdom and the love of Jesus. Join us as we begin a fresh year of walking with Jesus and living out our faith in Him! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is next Thursday, January 13!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an...

Living in the Shadow of Domestic Violence

December 31, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Millions of children are exposed to domestic violence every year, and millions of adults grew up in homes plagued by this epidemic. Tiffany Mensah is one of the statistics and she will bring a real and raw perspective of the effects of growing up in a violent home, along with her journey to healing and wholeness.  EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

Artificial Intelligence, Humanity and God

December 30, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Scientist and apologist Dr. John Lennox delves into the world of the future and the role of Artificial Intelligence.   What is the scope of AI now and how will it grow over the next 60 years?  Dr. Lennox invites us to consider the implications of AI and the definition of “human” as he points the way to our ultimate answers.  Don't miss this in-depth conversation about the scope of science and the hope of Christianity. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE...

The Power of Christian Love

December 29, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Chris Brooks invites us to embrace the ways that Christians alone can influence those around them. We alone bear the love of Christ so we alone can share that love.  Discover the Biblical foundations for the power of Christian love! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

Re-Discovering the Wisdom of Proverbs

December 28, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Down through the centuries, the book of Proverbs has guided believers to address every area of life with practical, godly wisdom.  Its truth is just as relevant today as the day it was written! Pastor Tim Keller and his wife Kathy will take us back to this ancient book to guide us toward a new understanding of what it means to live a God-directed life!    EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   B...

Praying for your Unsaved Spouse

December 27, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Are you in a spiritually mismatched marriage?  Are you trying to navigate your faith with a spouse who does not seem to understand?  Lynn Donovan waited nearly three decades for her husband to join her journey with Jesus.  She shares a spiritual battle plan for Christians living with an unsaved spouse.  EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today

Finding Christ on Christmas Eve

December 24, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

It’s almost Christmas!  Celebrate God’s gift of salvation come to earth with an Old Testament look at God’s promise of the coming Messiah! Join Chris Brooks to learn how David found Christ and how you can too, all on this special Christmas Eve edition of Equipped!  EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

The Characters of Christmas

December 23, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

In this busy season the Christmas story can become too familiar to us. Have you lost the wonder of Jesus birth? Perhaps it’s time to engage our imaginations and explore the supporting cast in this drama through characters like the shepherds, the innkeeper, Joseph and the Wise Men. Their stories can help us see Jesus more clearly - the One who is worthy of our worship! Prepare your heart for Christmas on this edition of Equipped! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION ...

Lessons from our Little Ones

December 22, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Children are marvelous teachers! If we slow down and pay attention, we will learn more from our children than we ever expected.  Author, radio veteran, and grandpa Jon Gauger joins Chris Brooks to talk over some crucial Christmas conversations we can have with our kids and the surprising instruction they have for us, too!  Bring lessons from your little ones to share on this holiday edition of Equipped! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL...

Isaiah: Promises & Prophecies

December 21, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

What better time to dig into the book of Isaiah than at Christmas?  Often called “the fifth gospel” the book of the prophet Isaiah has more to say about Israel’s coming Messiah, Jesus, than any other Old Testament book. Scholar and professor Dr. Sandra Richter will help us uncover the rich promises and prophecies contained in this ancient book.  Prepare to deepen your faith and stretch your study skills as we learn relevant, timely truth from the book of Isaiah. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEET...

Hidden Christmas

December 20, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Why is Christmas so special? In our modern culture, the real story is eclipsed by secular stories and celebrations, but Christians know that Christmas shows the uniqueness of our faith and Jesus as the only viable hope for the world.  Today, Chris shares thoughts from Dr. Tim Keller about the message of Christmas – hidden, until God chose to reveal Himself to the world in Jesus!  EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper...

The Flourishing Pastor

December 17, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Tom Nelson understands a pastor’s life. He also knows that when pastors flourish, churches flourish, and then communities flourish. We have never needed our pastors more than we do right now but many of them feel overwhelmed and want to quit.  Don't miss the encouragement as this veteran pastor points us to the Shepherd of our souls for healing and renewal. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   ...

Transforming Traditions into Truth

December 14, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Don’t you love this time of year as we celebrate our Savior’s birth?  As with many holidays, there is history and myth intertwined in the traditions and origins of Christmas. But, for Christians, the most important and the most valid information comes from God’s Word.  Dr. Jim Denison joins Chris Brooks to delve into the facts behind the nativity and to uncover the roots of some Christmas traditions, too. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MA...

A Christian Response to the Problem of Evil

December 13, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Why do suffering and evil happen in the world? Today, Jim Denison and Chris discuss this hard question in light of the Oxford H.S. shooting and the devastation of this weekend's tornadoes. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

Headlines, News, & Christian Views

December 13, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

National 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 next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper ...

The First Songs of Christmas

December 10, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

As we approach Christmas, it’s time to turn our hearts toward the wonderful story of the nativity. Nancy Demoss Wolgemuth will point us to the greatness, glory and goodness of our Savior through the songs of those who witnessed his birth!  Don’t miss this special Advent edition of Equipped! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

The Music of Christmas

December 09, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

It is that most wonderful time of the year when we get to enjoy all those special songs of Christmas.  What is your favorite Christmas tune?  Coming up on Equipped, we will spread some Christmas cheer, share our musical favorites, and explore the wonder and worship of the season through the music of Christmas!  It’s a holiday edition of Equipped that you don’t want to miss! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and w...

Mental Health and our Youth

December 08, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Chris helps parents and teens navigate the complexities and contours of mental health in today's culture from a Biblical perspective. Chris offers practical advise, and leads us into the Scriptures for a clear and healthy Christ centered mind and family.  Additional metal health resources can be found on our resource tab! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today  

Unshakeable Hope Pt. 2

December 06, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Have you ever considered that the trials and sorrows of life are an opportunity to shine the light of Jesus?  If you are resting on His unshakable hope, your family and friends can’t help but notice!  However, if you need help finding that hope, join Chris Brooks as he takes us back into the book of 1st Peter for rock-solid truth for life’s hardest days.  EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Be...

Unshakeable Hope Pt. 1

December 03, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

We know that life is not always easy; in fact, it can be downright overwhelming!  In those times, we have a choice – we can look to the promises of God, or we can look at the problems of life. Listen as Chris unpacks rock-solid truth from the book of First Peter to help you stand strong on your hardest days!  EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is January 13!   REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

Grieving together for Oxford High / SCOTUS hears historic Abortion Case

December 01, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Today Chris examines the need to value and protect the lives of our children.  Dr. Deb Gorton helps us process the trauma and grief from yesterday's Oxford High School shooting.  And the US Supreme Court heard arguments today in a vital case in the battle against abortion. This is an exciting case and a historic opportunity to address false assumptions in our abortion laws. What's it all about?  Michael Farris of ADF will explain the realities of this crucial case and its impact on future gen...

How to Raise a Teenager

November 30, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

The teen years can be full of struggles and joys as our children move toward independence.  What would you like to know BEFORE your child becomes a teenager? Marriage and family expert Dr. Gary Chapman will share the things he wanted to know before his own children entered the teen years and the lessons he learned along the way. Bring your questions and join us as we learn to nurture our relationships and guide our teens into adulthood!

The Names of Jesus

November 29, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Names have power – and there is One whose name makes an eternal difference! Next time on Equipped, we hope you will discover the WOW factor in the many names of Jesus, given throughout Scripture! Each name reveals another facet of the Son of God and His ministry to those of us who follow Him. Join us as we prepare to worship the Babe in the manger who is the Savior and so much more!

Exposing the Prosperity Gospel

November 26, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Millions desperate for hope are enticed by the promise of the prosperity gospel – that God will respond to faith and a financial gift - while prosperity preachers exploit the needy and stockpile their own riches. How can followers of the true Gospel combat this deception?  Costi Hinn, a nephew of world-famous televangelist Benny Hinn, joins Chris Brooks to reveal the inner workings of the prosperity movement and remind us of the true hope we have in Christ Jesus!

Discovering Your Life’s Mission

November 25, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Do the dire needs of the world make you feel helpless and sad? Are you at a loss to know how to help? Hal Donaldson felt that way too until someone pointed the way to disruptive compassion!  Join our discussion about getting off the sidelines and into the game of becoming a world-changer. Learn to start right where you are to be the revolutionary you were born to be!

The Story Behind the First Thanksgiving

November 24, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Today we journey back to the first Thanksgiving and discover what actually happened that day!  Veteran historian Tracy McKenzie joins guest-host Ed Stetzer to share the captivating facts behind the story of the pilgrims of Plymouth Plantation.  Get to know our flawed but fascinating forbears and the timely lessons they could share with Christians in modern American!

Organic Outreach

November 23, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

As we approach the holidays, we want to be ready to share the love of Jesus in a way that draws people in and invites more conversation. If you long to live the kind of life that attracts others to Jesus, listen as Kevin Harney, founder of Organic Outreach, explains how to love genuinely, live authentically, and speak naturally about our Savior!

Smoke & Mirrors: Part 4 Nihilism

November 22, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Many people today, especially young people, are asking if life has any meaning at all - and the world’s answers are leaving them in despair. Chris takes us back into the book of Ecclesiastes to examine the path to purpose & fulfillment! Discover the freedom and joy that comes through living all of life for the glory of God! 

The Power of Praying Together

November 19, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Jesus put a high priority on prayer during his earthly ministry and he is still making intercession for us in heaven! The early church understood that prayer was their lifeline for power and endurance and it’s just as true today! Discover how corporate prayer can transform lives, relationships, and even the culture of our churches! For more great resources on prayer, click on this link. 

The Secular Creed

November 18, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Our society has created some strong beliefs about equality, diversity, and love.  Many people proudly display their creed on signs in their front yards! How should Christians engage over these secular statements?  We will sort out the truths Christians can affirm from those we cannot embrace with author Rebecca McLaughlin. Learn to speak winsome Biblical truth into your cultural conversations!

Getting Back to Church

November 17, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

According to recent research from Lifeway, 63% of churchgoers have returned to in-person gatherings. Chris asks the 37% who haven't come back, why have you stayed away and what will it take for you to return? He also shares some thoughts on what pastors can do in this season.

Offering Gospel Freedom from the Occult

November 16, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Do you know someone who is toying with the occult or completely trapped in Spiritism and Satan worship?   What should we know as we prepare to share the power of the Gospel with them? Chris Brooks will talk with two experts in the field of spiritual warfare and take your questions, too! Learn to boldly offer the overcoming freedom found only in Jesus Christ!

Smoke & Mirrors: Part 3 Materialism

November 15, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

How much is enough in life?  How much money, happiness, or success is enough for you?  Chris Brooks takes us back into the book of Ecclesiastes to examine the emptiness of this world.  Discover the true source of joy and priorities worth pursuing! Learn to be fully satisfied in Jesus – the only One who is enough.

Freeing Women from Sexual Sin

November 10, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Today's topic is a sensitive subject – the sexual struggles faced by women.  Sadly, many Christian women think they are the only ones facing these temptations and silently bear their shame alone. Author and women’s ministry leader Ashley Chesnut will offer Biblical insights to guide women out of the shame and into a life of victory!

Igniting Faith in the Next Generation

November 08, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

How can we raise godly children in a godless culture? What does a godly family really look like? Wouldn’t it be great to peek into a home where multiple generations of Jesus followers live and learn how they did it?  Chris Brooks will do just that as Billy Graham’s daughter and granddaughter share family stories and spiritual insights for leaving a legacy of faith to future generations!

Igniting Faith in the Next Generation

November 05, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

What does it take to have a vibrant Christian life?  Pastor Dane Ortlund says it’s as simple as spending time with someone who knows you and loves you more than you can imagine! He will refocus our vision on precious Gospel truth so we can enjoy our invincible identity in Jesus!  If you are hungry for more life, more joy, and more peace, don't miss this important discussion!

Sharing Jesus in a Post-Truth Age

November 04, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Who are you talking to about Jesus? Are you finding the conversations hard to navigate? Speaking Biblical truth in a post-truth age is challenging but not impossible! Author and apologist Abdu Murray loves to guide people through their questions so they can consider the claims of Christ. Don't miss the conversation as Abdu helps us share our faith with clarity and compassion! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is TODAY right after the program!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.

The Christian’s True Identity

November 03, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

We are faced with identity issues nearly daily. From gender to religion to occupations and relationships, people really care about who they are! What do you build YOUR identity around?  Author Jonathan Landry Cruse offers some fresh, freeing answers to the question of ‘Who am I?' EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is TOMORROW, November 4!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

What I learned in Israel

November 02, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Chris Brooks just returned from his first trip to Israel.  Whom did he meet? What did he learn?  If you have ever visited the Holy Land or wish you could, join the conversation as Chris shares the most important thing he discovered while he was there.  He also takes your calls and helps us pray for this land that God loves so much! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is this Thursday, November 4!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an ...

Effective Intercultural Evangelism

October 29, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

We live in a multi-cultural society, but many of Christians are hesitant to engage with those of other faiths, partly because we don’t understand their belief system. Jay Moon and Bud Simon are missionaries and professors who will help us adapt our evangelistic efforts to fit the cultural contexts of those around us. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is September 23!  REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today

Smoke & Mirrors: Part 2 Individualism

October 28, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Why do you do what you do?  What is your motivation for living?  The wisest man who ever lived asked these questions as he looked for happiness through all he accomplished.  Listen as Chris dismantles the illusion of rugged individualism and offers a better answer to the search for meaning and the quest for true joy! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is a week away - November 4!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

Smoke & Mirrors: Part 1 Intellectualism

October 27, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Does greater intelligence lead to greater happiness?  Can we count on education and increasing knowledge to bring us ultimate purpose and fulfillment?  King Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, examined that question.  Join Chris for a deep dive into Ecclesiastes chapter 2 as he answers the arguments of Intellectualism and explains the foundation of true joy! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to atte...

Help! I’m Married to My Pastor

October 26, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Ministry wives today face both joys and challenges as they navigate their calling.  Jani Ortlund has served alongside her husband Ray for over 40 years.  Like trusted friends, they will take your calls and gently remind us of the high calling you have, even if you feel like you are swimming against the tide. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

Learning for Life

October 25, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

What does it take to become a life-long student of God’s Word?  Learn the secrets that power the spiritual growth of pastors and Christian leaders as Pastor James Meeks of Salem Baptist Church in Chicago joins guest-host Ed Stetzer.  They will share key resources and habits that keep them strong through the study of Scripture.  Whether you are just starting the Christian life or are decades into your walk with Jesus, you'll find fresh insights for going the distance with Christ!Be sure to che...

Evangelism in a Post-Truth Age

October 22, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Do you have friends and family members you long to see come to Christ, but they simply aren’t interested or are even adversarial to Christianity?Coming up on Equipped, guest-host Ed Stetzer will talk with 2 veterans of evangelism who say that many people who seem closed to the Gospel are surprisingly open, if we just find the right approach!  EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equi...

Igniting Courageous Manhood

October 21, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

Men, are you tired of being stuck in a stagnant form of Christianity?  Do you long for an energetic, vital walk with the Lord?  Are you walking through a desert or worn out spiritually?  Pastor Brian Tome joins guest host Ed Stetzer to help you go deeper, live fully, and find reality in your walk with Jesus Christ! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

Broken to Beautiful: Transformative Hospitality

October 20, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes

What can we do to heal the brokenness around us?  Ann says that mending hearts can begin with something as simple as sharing a meal together.  She explores the power of the Gospel to transform lives through the ministry of hospitality! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4!    REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX.  Not an Equipper and want to attend?   Become an Equipper Today!

Books

Angels & Demons
1 Episode