5 JUN. 2024 · In this compelling episode of "The Merge" with Chris Autry, we dive into a thoughtful discussion with Pastor Brad Lynch from Southview Baptist Church about the complex and sensitive topic of gender dysphoria. As societal debates and personal struggles around gender identity become more prevalent, Pastor Lynch brings a deeply biblical perspective to the table. Addressing the discomfort some may feel with their biological sex, he explores the influences of social contagion and the pressures of cultural conformity, particularly among younger generations. The conversation delves into the Christian understanding of gender as inherently tied to biological reality, reinforced by both scientific and theological affirmations of male and female distinctiveness. Pastor Lynch emphasizes the role of social media and societal shifts in shaping perceptions and identities, suggesting a form of 'social flu' that spreads ideologies akin to viral infections. Throughout the episode, the dialogue remains anchored in scriptural truths, presenting a clear and compassionate response to the challenges posed by gender dysphoria. This episode is not just informative but also a call to Christians to understand, engage, and respond to these issues with grace, truth, and unwavering faith in God's design.

29 MAY. 2024 · In this episode of The Merge, host Chris Autry sits down with James Ikner, a senior from Cumberland County, to discuss his journey of merging faith in Christ with community leadership. James shares his experiences from serving in the Navy in the early 1950s, his life in Guam, and his profound commitment to living a life guided by Christian principles.

22 MAY. 2024 · In this podcast episode, host Chris Autry and guest Dennis Conner from the NC Baptist Convention explore the theme of Leadership Mistakes. They share personal anecdotes about their own errors while engaging with their communities and discuss the lessons learned. The conversation delves into the significance of resilience and reliability in leadership, the dangers of pride, and the importance of separating one's identity from their work. They conclude by listing the top five leadership mistakes and stressing the value of not basing self-worth on the success of initiatives, instead finding identity in Christ and being open to God's guidance. Among the Topics Discussed: - Mistakes in leadership - Learning from mistakes and not letting them define identity - Importance of staying committed and reliable as a leader - Impact of pride and self-worth on leadership - Significance of consistency and credibility in leadership - Top five mistakes that leaders make - Finding identity in Christ and not in work - Detrimental effects of micromanaging and getting wedded to the method - Addressing issues and learning to forgive oneself - Role of community and openness to feedback and redirection from God

15 MAY. 2024 · Episode Summary: Welcome to The Merge podcast, where we highlight leaders in our region who merge their faith in Jesus Christ with their leadership. In this episode, Chris Autry speaks with Krissy Watson, the Dental Ministry Coordinator for Baptist on Mission with the NC Baptist Convention. Krissy shares her journey from growing up in Myrtle Beach to her current role, providing dental care to underserved communities across North Carolina. She discusses the unique challenges and rewards of this ministry and how it serves as a tool for churches to reach their communities with the gospel. Key Topics Discussed: - Introduction to Krissy Watson: Krissy’s background, growing up in Myrtle Beach, and her journey into dental ministry. - The Role of a Dental Ministry Coordinator: Krissy’s responsibilities, including coordinating the dental buses, working with churches, and managing volunteer dentists and assistants. - Need for Accessible Dental Care: The importance of providing dental care to uninsured and underinsured individuals in North Carolina, and the unique challenges they face. - Impact of the Dental Ministry: Stories of how the dental bus ministry has positively affected individuals and communities. - Personal Reflections: Krissy’s experiences and insights from her mission trips and her enduring passion for dental ministry. Key Bible Verses Mentioned: - Joshua 24:15: As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. - Matthew 25:40: Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. Action Steps: - Volunteering: If you are a dentist, dental assistant, or hygienist, consider volunteering your time and skills to support the dental bus ministry. - Donations: Financial contributions can significantly impact the reach and effectiveness of the dental ministry. Donations can be made directly to Baptist on Mission at https://baptistonmission.org/. - Local Church Involvement: Churches interested in hosting the dental bus can contact Krissy Watson through Baptist on Mission to schedule a visit and coordinate volunteers. Upcoming Event: - Fayetteville Clinic: The medical dental bus will be at Lafayette Baptist Church in Fayetteville on September 14, 2024. For more details or to volunteer, contact Lafayette Baptist Church. Contact Information: - Baptist on Mission: Visit https://baptistonmission.org/ for more information or to donate. - Krissy Watson: Reach out through Baptist on Mission for inquiries about the dental ministry or to schedule a dental bus visit. Listen & Subscribe: Find The Merge podcast on your favorite platforms and share with your friends. Don’t forget to tune in for upcoming episodes featuring leaders who bridge their faith with their calling to serve.Additional Resources: - Volunteer Information: Learn more about how to volunteer with the dental ministry by visiting Baptist on Mission’s website. - Support the Ministry: Financial support can be directed to Baptist on Mission to help cover the costs of operating the dental buses and providing care to those in need.

8 MAY. 2024 · Episode Summary: Welcome to The Merge podcast, where we highlight leaders in our region who merge their faith in Jesus Christ with their leadership. In this episode, we continue our special series with LynnDee Horne from Narrow Gate Counseling, addressing listener-submitted questions on mental health from a biblical perspective. This episode focuses on how to engage someone about their mental health and how to navigate the concept of generational sin. Key Topics Discussed: - Introduction to the Series: Chris and LynnDee introduce the Q&A series addressing mental health questions from listeners. - Engaging Someone About Their Mental Health: Discussing strategies for parents to talk to their teenagers and adults to talk to their parents about mental health concerns. - Building Rapport: The importance of building trust and rapport when discussing sensitive topics, and the role of professionals in facilitating these conversations. - Intercessory Prayer: Emphasizing the power of intercessory prayer in preparing for difficult conversations about mental health. - Generational Sin: Understanding the concept of generational sin, its impact, and how to address it through spiritual warfare and repentance. - Breaking Patterns: Practical steps to break generational sin patterns, including identifying the sin, repenting, replacing with godly behaviors, and repeating the process. Key Bible Verses Mentioned: - 2 Timothy 1:7: God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. - Joshua 24:15: As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. - Ephesians 6:17: The word of God as the sword of the Spirit. Action Steps: - Engaging Teenagers: Approach conversations with care, persistence, and specificity. Ensure you have time to listen and consider professional help if needed. - Talking to Parents: Start with intercessory prayer, identify resources, and approach conversations with humility and compassion. - Breaking Generational Sin: Follow the steps of identifying the sin, repenting, replacing with godly behaviors, and repeating the process. Use the provided breaking pattern sheet for guidance. - Using Resources: Utilize available resources, such as Narrow Gate Counseling, and involve others who can help speak truth into the situation. Contact Information: - Narrow Gate Counseling: Visit https://narrowgatecounseling.com/ for more information or to schedule an appointment.

1 MAY. 2024 · Episode Summary: Welcome to The Merge podcast, where we highlight leaders in our region who merge their faith in Jesus Christ with their leadership. In this episode, we kick off a special series with LynnDee Horne from Narrow Gate Counseling. We address listener-submitted questions on mental health, focusing on the prevalent issue of body image and insecurities. Key Topics Discussed: - Introduction to the Series: Chris and LynnDee introduce a Q&A series addressing mental health questions from listeners, with future episodes to cover gender identity and dysphoria. - Understanding Body Image Insecurities: Discussing the cultural obsession with appearance and its impact on self-perception. - Personal Stories: Both Chris and LynnDee share personal experiences dealing with body image issues and chronic pain, highlighting the mental and emotional challenges they faced. - Taking Thoughts Captive: LynnDee explains the concept of taking thoughts captive, using neuroscience to back up the Biblical principle of renewing the mind. - Blessing the Body: The importance of speaking blessings over your body and practicing gratitude for what your body can do. - Practical Steps: How to recognize and reframe negative thoughts, incorporating scripture and seeking God's truth about one's identity. Key Bible Verses Mentioned: - Genesis 1-2: Humanity as the prize of God's creation. - Psalm 139: Being fearfully and wonderfully made. - 1 Corinthians 6-7: The body as the temple of the Holy Spirit. - Ephesians 2: Created for good works. - 1 Timothy 4:8: The value of godliness over physical training. Action Steps: - Awareness of Thoughts: Be conscious of negative thoughts and write them down to begin the process of renewing your mind. - Speak Truth: Counter negative thoughts with Biblical truths about your identity in Christ. - Bless Your Body: Actively bless your body by acknowledging and being grateful for its capabilities. - Seek Support: Consider reaching out to Narrow Gate Counseling for further guidance and support. Contact Information: - Narrow Gate Counseling: Visit https://narrowgatecounseling.com/ for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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