Equipped with Chris Brooks
692 episodes - English - Latest episode: 11 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
Broken to Beautiful: Transformative Hospitality
October 20, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat 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!
What God Has to Say about Our Bodies
October 19, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesThe Bible tells us that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made”. That means our physical selves are important to God! Pastor and theologian Sam Allberry delves into Scripture for a sound theology of the body. He reminds us that what we do and what we think about our bodies matters to God who created us, knows us, and cares for us!. From eating disorders to the transgender debate to transhumanism, don’t miss this crucial conversation! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4! REGIS...
Love Languages of Special Needs Families
October 18, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesRaising kids is challenging these days but having ‘special needs children’ places even more demands on a marriage and family. How can couples stay close and carry the load together? How can the rest of us help ease the strain for them? Elementary educator and author Jolene Philo shares the secrets to implementing the 5 Love Languages in a Special Needs family on this important edition of Equipped! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4! REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INB...
Finding My Father
October 15, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesDoes your life have a hole in it – right in the place where your father was supposed to be? Don’t miss the conversation with spoken word artist and Bible teacher Blaire Linne as she weaves her personal story of fatherlessness with theological truth about a Father in heaven who helped and healed her. Discover the power of the Gospel to reshape identity and change a legacy! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4! REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Not an Equipper and w...
Honoring our Pastor’s Wives
October 14, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesThe past year and a half have been extremely challenging for pastors as the COVID crisis continues, but there is someone standing beside him who quietly kept him motivated for ministry – the Pastor’s Wife! What do you value most about your pastor’s wife? Today I want to shine the light on these faithful, godly women who deserve our gratitude and respect. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4! REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Not an Equipper and want to attend? ...
Contagious Faith!
October 12, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesMost of us are uncomfortable when it comes to talking about our beliefs with others, but our faith is meant to be contagious! Be assured God wants to use you! Author and teacher Mark Mittelberg will help us uncover our own unique faith style. Discover your natural, God-given approach for sharing Jesus with your friends and family. 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!
The Case for Heaven
October 11, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesA decade ago, journalist and bestselling author Lee Strobel nearly died. Once he managed to recover, he tackled life’s last and most important question—what happens after we die? He joins Chris Brooks to unpack his research into the very real issues of heaven, hell, and our existence beyond the grave. 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!
Science and the Christian
October 08, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesCan Christians study science without compromising our faith or do we have to choose between Christianity and science? This question has caused a crisis of faith in many students. Today, we will explore the ways scientists in every generation have united their faith with their vocation. Learn to move into scientific study with confidence and speak boldly to a watching world! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4! REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Not an Equipper an...
History for Today!
October 07, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesDoes the study of history only relate to “the past”? In fact, learning about the lives of people in the past can make their story part of our own! We are going to delve into the study of history on Equipped and watch this discipline shape our present-day lives. Put names and dates to the side and buckle your seatbelts for a ride that engages your heart as much as your mind! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is November 4! REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Not an Equipper and...
Why Should I Study Philosophy?
October 06, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesHow analytically do you think? We know that ideas have consequences so shouldn't we know what the ideas that run the world mean? Do you want to grow in your ability to understand and discern philosophical ideas through a Biblical framework? Dr. Paul Copan will explain why and how Christians should study philosophy. We’ll look at the role of the mind in the life of faith on this edition of Equipped!
Yes, You Can Study Theology!
October 05, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesHave you wanted to study theology but felt like it was only for the highly intelligent or deeply spiritual people? It’s not! Anyone can learn the basic doctrines of our faith and apply them personally. In fact, good theology actually liberates us to walk more closely with God! Get your start today on Equipped as we learn why and how to study theology!
You Were Made for This
September 30, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesAs we look around at the problems facing our nation and our families, it’s easy to give in to fear but Pastor Max Lucado says, like Queen Esther in the Old Testament, we were born for this moment! He joins Chris Brooks to remind us that whatever you are facing, God is working to right the wrongs and care for His people even when everything seems to be falling apart! Discover God’s grand reversals and take fresh courage!
Our Gospel Stories
September 29, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat drew you to Jesus? How did you come to Him for salvation? Listen for inspiring testimonies of God's love in action and learn to speak Gospel truth to a post-truth generation! Join Chris for an insightful conversation about living out our faith in a rapidly changing culture. Do you have questions about your salvation? Click here for more information or call 888-NEED HIM.
The Suicide Solution
September 28, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesDid you know that suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for people ages 10 to 34? We need to help our young people and maybe even ourselves! Join Chris Brooks for an in-depth conversation with a noted psychiatrist and a veteran youth minister who apply the latest in brain science and the centrality of the Gospel to address the rising epidemic of suicide. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 (TALK)
Parents Rising
September 27, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesAs parents, we cannot outsource the discipleship of our children! We all long to see our children standing strong in their faith but did you know that you are the most influential person in their lives? They need to see our faith in daily life, not just on Sunday morning. Arlene Pellicane will help us leverage our influence as parents as we learn to pass our faith to the next generation. Bring your questions and talk it over!
Confident Faith
September 24, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesHow certain are you about your beliefs? Author Mark Mittelberg has a passion for helping Christians defend their faith. He says no one should be intimidated by personal doubts or the objections of others. Rather, these things should serve to make you stronger! Call in with your most baffling questions about the Bible and Christianity and be prepared to bolster your faith and your witness to others!
Sexual Discipleship
September 23, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesIn today’s culture, it is crucial that we step into conversations about biblical sexuality. Are you equipped to speak clearly and compassionately about issues like pornography, gender identity, and social media temptations? Psychiatrist, author, and founder of Authentic Intimacy, Dr. Juli Slattery helps us have honest conversations with our children or new believers about God’s design for sex and relationships! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is this TODAY after the progam! REGISTRATION DE...
Staying Grounded in Turbulent Times
September 21, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhen we look around us, it’s very easy to give way to worry, fear or even anger. How can we stand firm in our faith in times like these? What do you do to hold onto your God-confidence when trouble comes? Nancy Demoss Wolgemuth will outline important habits of the heart every Christian needs to practice to stand strong and be winsome witnesses to those who need the hope we have through Jesus Christ! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is this Thursday, Sept. 23! REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN...
Faith in the Public Square
September 17, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesChris Brooks talks with a man who believes there is hope for America if Christians will carefully align our political views with Scripture rather than retrofitting our beliefs to fit our politics! He will also challenge our thinking about the redemptive role of faith in the public arena and the power of humble, authentic service to others. If you need some hope for our country, don’t miss Chris’s inspiring conversation with Gov. Bill Haslam. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is September 23! ...
Discerning the Will of God
September 16, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesHow do you discern God's direction in your decision-making? Where do you need to know God's plan for your life? Chris Brooks shares biblical principles and the encouragement of prayer for finding God's will in the many arenas of life. 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
Jesus: The God Who Knows Your Name
September 15, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesDo you ever feel like Jesus could not possibly know what you are going through? He is the God of the universe after all! Does He really know your daily struggles? The good news is, He does! Pastor and author Max Lucado will unfold the heart of a Savior who longs to live in relationship with you. Discover the Christ, full of grace and life, forgiveness and fun! Join us for a look into the life of Jesus on earth on this edition of Equipped! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is September 23! ...
Christian Unity in Challenging Times
September 13, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat can we do to promote unity as Christians in this divisive age? Recently, Dan Darling, Billy Hallowell, and Chris Brooks shared the stage to address questions like: How can we communicate grace and truth in the midst of disagreement? How do we discern what’s worth fighting for? And - What role does the Gospel play in our rhetoric? Don’t miss this crucial conversation! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is September 23! REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Not an Equipper and w...
Remembering 9/11
September 10, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesToday we reflect on the tragic events of the 9/11 attacks on our nation. What memories have stuck with you over the years and what life-changing lessons have you learned? Chris Brooks visits with Bob Ossler, who served as a chaplain to first-responders in New York City, as we reflect on this important day in our nation’s history. 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
From the Marketplace to Ministry
September 09, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesHave you ever considered following God’s call out of the marketplace and into the ministry? Is it time for you to step into a fresh adventure with the Lord? Hear how God has led Chris’s friend Pierre to make the courageous move into full-time pastoring and how you can follow God’s will for your life, too. 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
Knowing and Enjoying God
September 08, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesAre you enjoying your relationship with the Lord? Do you find deep, down joy in knowing God is there and that Jesus is your Savior? Coming up on Equipped, Chris talks with author Tim Challies about how we can relate to God and enjoy the benefits of truly knowing Him. If your friendship with God is waning, learn how small habits can grow your relationship with God in amazing ways! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is September 23! REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Not an Equip...
She is Mine
September 07, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesAre you feeling forgotten by God? Do you wonder if He even sees you? If so, you will want to hear the incredible story of a nameless, homeless child who was abandoned and left for dead on a garbage dump. Her journey was not easy but her life testifies that God truly cares for the least of these! 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
The Blessing of Business
September 06, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWork is a God-given directive to Adam in the Garden of Eden through to each of us in the present day. If God designed us to work and create, what can be done about the millions of people caught in poverty in the United States and beyond? Rudy Carrasco, a national leader in community development, joins Chris to share the vision for many ways entrepreneurship can be a force for good, change the world and alleviate poverty! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is September 23! REGISTRATION DETAILS...
You Are What You Do and other lies
September 02, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWho are you? You will likely answer that question with some role you play or the job you do. Even as Christians, we often look to our families, our experiences, or our connections for our identity, but aren’t we more than all of this? Pastor and author Daniel Im has uncovered the lies we believe and the answers we long for. He will help us discover our own unshakeable identity. EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is September 23! REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Not an Equipp...
Back to School Prayer & Career Callings
September 01, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesChristians never need to shy away from the tough times in life, even in a changing world, because our God never changes. Chris prayed with listeners as our children and grandchildren head back to school. He also focussed on the question: Would you encourage your children to follow your career path? and challenged young people to follow God's call on our lives, including the ministry! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is September 23! REGISTRATION DETAILS ARE IN YOUR E-MAIL INBOX. Not an Equ...
Life-Long Learners of Biblical Truth
August 31, 2021 12:03 - 60 Bytes2nd Timothy 2:14 tells us to “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” We need to be students of the Bible today more than ever! Discover 2 wonderful ways to prepare to speak Biblical truth to today’s world, no matter your age or stage of life! 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...
Loving your Muslim Neighbor
August 30, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesReligious diversity has always been a part of the American story. With the rise of Islam in many cities, Christians are asking themselves “How do I bear faithful witness to Christ and love my Muslim neighbor?” Bring your questions as we learn to build confident, caring relationships with Muslims in our communities! 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
Lessons from the Fall of Mars Hill Church
August 27, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhen we see well-known pastors fall from the heights of their ministry we should be asking important questions, like ‘What led to their failure?’ and ‘How can we prevent it from happening in our own churches?’ Chris Brooks talks with writer and podcaster Mike Cosper about the shipwreck of one well-known pastor. They will answer those important questions so we can understand and avoid the perils of power, conflict, and celebrity status in the Church! EQUIPPERS - Our next ZOOM MEETING is Sept...
Holier Than Thou
August 26, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhy is it so hard to totally trust God with our lives? Could it be that we wonder if He actually wants what is best for us? Jackie Hill Perry says the way to trust God is to understand His holiness! Far from being a cold, calculating characteristic of God, it’s the very reason we can place our complete confidence in Him. 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
Chasing Failure
August 25, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail? This is the question Ryan Leak asked himself and now he’s asking you! It all started in his attempt to conquer his fear of failure by trying out for an NBA team. He learned that falling short actually sets us up for success and that God is always ready to take a chance on us! Hear his story and begin to see your own life through the “win or learn” matrix.
Church Hurt and other Congregational Conflicts
August 24, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat is the right way to handle disputes in the church, and is it biblical to criticize the church and its leaders on social media? Chris Brooks delves into the Scriptures for guidance on handling church conflicts.Chris referenced this article by Thom S. Rainer, "Six Ways Social Media Toxicity is Hurting Pastors".
The Heart of Christ for You
August 23, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat does Jesus think of you? You probably know that He died on the cross, but what does he really think of people like you and me? Matthew 11 reveals the Jesus as the gentle and lowly one, who loves each of us, no matter who we are or what we face in life! If you are weary and overwhelmed, find rest the rest your soul longs to enjoy as we examine the heart of Jesus for each of us.
When Someone You Love Rejects Christianity
August 20, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesBarna research reports that nearly two-thirds of U.S. 18–29-year-olds who grew up in church have walked away as an adult and we regularly hear of Christian leaders who have left Christianity. What if that’s your child? How do you relate to them and share the truth of Jesus? Coming up on Equipped, gifted apologist Lisa Fields will take your questions about responding well when someone you love rejects the Christian faith.
Handling Life's Most Stressful Jobs
August 19, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesChris helps us navigate the complexities and contours of our daily Christian walk from a Biblical worldview. Today we are going to talk about how to handle life's most stressful jobs. We will also pray together as we look to the Lord for His help in our places of employment.
God’s Hand in Afghanistan & Haiti
August 18, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat can Christians learn from the turmoil in Afghanistan and devastation in Haiti? How can we encourage and support our brothers & sisters in Christ there? Jim Denison joins me with key takeaways for each of us!
Redeeming Social Media for Gospel Opportunities
August 17, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesMany of us are concerned about the pitfalls of social media apps like Tik-Tok, Snapchat, or Instagram but what if we could capitalize on these apps for the Gospel? York Moore is passionate about getting the gospel into the hands of the next generation! He joins Chris Brooks with exciting stories of how he has creatively captured a growing audience of teens and college kids with Biblical truth!
Overflow Pt. 4 – Giving and Ability
August 16, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWe all have gifts from God that can bring the light of the Gospel to this broken world, but simply having the time, talent, or treasure is not enough. God expects us to step out in action to see His name lifted high! Don’t miss Chris Brooks’ challenging conclusion to the blessings of living an overflowing life!
Overflow Pt. 3 – Giving and Ministry
August 13, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesChris Brooks reminds us that our time, talents, and treasure are all gifts from God! We can choose to keep them to ourselves or we can discover the incredible joy that comes from giving generously. The early church understood this and their faithfulness changed the world! Learn more about the blessings of living a generous life from 2nd Corinthians chapter 9!
Getting Over Yourself
August 12, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesHave you noticed the self-centered focus creeping into conversations, even in the Church? Phrases like “live your best life”, “find your destiny” or “you do you” reveal a core belief that we are entitled to live life well AND on our own terms – but what did Jesus really teach about abundant living? Author and pastor Dean Inserra will help us discern the fake gospel of personal prosperity and self-affirmation while leading us toward cross-centered, Christ-focused Christianity.
Grounding Children in a Biblical Worldview
August 11, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesThe world and its values are creeping into our children’s lives at younger and younger ages. How can parents instill a Biblical worldview into the minds and hearts of our elementary-age kids? Guest host Collin Lambert talks with a teacher and Christian apologist, Elizabeth Urbanowicz about beginning early to prepare the next generation of critical thinkers and life-long disciples of Jesus!
Unoffendable
August 10, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhen is the last time someone insulted or offended you? What was your reaction? As Christ-followers, are we entitled to be offended? Isn’t there such a thing as “righteous anger”? Collin Lambert is sitting in for Chris Brooks and he welcomes popular radio host Brant Hansen to walk us through some of these questions and to dig deeper into this idea of letting go of offenses. It might just be the healthiest thing we can do.
Have Serious Fun!
August 09, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhen life hands us a crisis, like cancer or a car accident, our priorities and values often shift. What are the most important principles for a life well lived? Author and family expert Jim Burns will share his personal journey and the life-changing lessons he learned along the way, including the vital importance of having fun! Discover the keys to enriching your faith, work, and relationships.
3 Big Questions that Change Teens
August 06, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesOur teens face challenges unknown to previous generations and now the research proves it. A study from the Fuller Youth Institute reveals that today’s teens are the most anxious, diverse, and adaptive generation in history! Authors and youth experts, Kara Powell and Brad Griffin will help us Interact well with our teens so they can discover the best answers to life’s most important questions.
The Plight and Promise of Girls
August 05, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesAround the world millions of girls continue to be abused, abandoned, aborted, abducted and enslaved. They face discrimination in ways that threatens their very existence. Is there anything we can do to make a difference? Michele Rickett, founder and CEO of She is Safe, has been advocating for women and girls for 20 years and she believes each of us can play a role in improving the plight of these young ones! Learn what you can do to help, next time on Equipped!
On Detours & Roadblocks
August 04, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesWhat’s the purpose of detours in life? Pastor and author Dr. Tony Evans says detours are designed by God to deliver you to the place He created for you. Have you unwillingly embarked on an alternate route to reaching your goals? If you’re experiencing a pit stop on your life journey, join us to learn how God’s divine goals are achieved through the detours you’re facing.
Parenting Generation Screen
August 02, 2021 12:03 - 60 BytesMost parents can agree that when it comes to kids and screens, we struggle! How long should they be on their computers? What about social media? Youth culture expert Jonathan McKee has spent decades coaching teens and parents from a Biblical worldview. He joins Chris Brooks to help us learn to prioritize connection over correction as we help our kids wisely engage with their digital world.