The Laymen’s Pod

Do denominations matter?

In this episode, the laymen discuss different sets of beliefs within Christianity and how they manifest themselves through denominational divisions. We discuss the impact of these divisions on new believers coming to faith and the importance of defining Christian beliefs and practices. We also discuss reasons for being drawn to one denomination over another and share some of our own personal experiences that have formulated our conception of what belief and practice should look like.

Should Christians oppose drug use?

In this episode, the Laymen discuss whether Christians should oppose recreational drug use. They explore the moral implications of drug use and the concept of the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. They also touch on the cultural and denominational differences in attitudes towards alcohol and drug use. The conversation highlights the importance of intention and the impact of substances on one's ability to fulfill their purpose as a temple of the Holy Spirit. The conversation explores the relationship between Christianity and government authority, as well as the morality of drug use. The Laymen examine biblical passages that address the role of government and the importance of submitting to governing authorities. The conversation touches on the idea of using political power to enforce Christian morality and the potential dangers of intertwining church and state. The Laymen discuss the prevalence of addiction in society, the impact of drug overdose deaths, and the concept of gateway drugs. They also delve into the question of whether Christians should forgo personal freedom and support the prohibition of drugs for the sake of others.

What is salvation?

In this conversation, the Laymen discuss the topic of salvation from different denominational perspectives. They explore the concepts of heaven and hell as well as the Orthodox concept of Theosis. The Laymen also touch on the Protestant belief in repentance and belief as the mechanisms of salvation. They highlight the importance of understanding salvation as a process that begins on earth and has eternal consequences. The conversation explores the concept of theosis and how it differs from other beliefs, such as Mormonism and Buddhism. It also delves into the mechanisms of salvation and the idea of once saved, always saved. The discussion touches on the Catholic perspective of salvation, including the concept of mortal sins and the need for repentance and reconciliation. The conversation also highlights the importance of faith and works in the Christian faith, emphasizing that they are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary. In this conversation, the Laymen discuss the relationship between faith and works in the context of salvation. They explore the Protestant and Catholic perspectives on this issue, highlighting the differences and similarities. They emphasize the importance of belief as an all-encompassing aspect of Christianity and the need for good works as evidence of genuine faith. The Laymen also address the concept of ecclesial anxiety and the search for the true church.

One-on-one: Getting to Know Alex

In this conversation,  I sit down with Laymen’s Pod regular, Alex, to discuss his faith background and upbringing. We talk about his journey of coming back to Christianity after 10 years of questioning. Join us as we get to know Alex and dive into his life story.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
upbringing, family, Catholic Church, values, money, sports, performative faith, deconstruction, doubt, faith, belief systems, skepticism, authenticity, wandering, questioning, Christian faith, intellectual clarity, moral clarity, hedonism, nihilism, spiritual sensitivity, return to the church, challenges, intellectual certainty, wholehearted commitment, solace, purpose, Orthodox Church, seeking, faith community

One-on-one: Getting to Know Randy

In this conversation,  I sit down with Laymen’s Pod regular, Randy, to discuss his upbringing and journey to Catholicism. We discuss faith in the context of family tragedy and the search for truth and meaning in life. Join us as we get to know Randy and dive into his life story.

Stories of Faith: Imprisoned in Cuba

In this episode, Peyton and his father, Mark, discuss their family’s legacy as missionaries in Cuba during the tumultuous 1960’s. They delve into the story of Peyton’s grandfather, David, who was arrested by the Cuban regime for his Christian faith shortly after the Communist revolution. Mark and Peyton discuss David’s impact on the growth of Christianity in Communist Cuba and recount incredible stories from his time in prison.

Stories of Faith: Alabaster Coffee Company

In this episode, Peyton sits down with Joel to discuss his journey of leaving his nine-to-five job and opening the Alabaster Coffee Company. We discuss Joel's story and how the guidance of the Holy Spirit has manifested itself in many miraculous ways throughout his life. We talk about the importance of discipleship as well as the role of prophetic gifts in the life of a Christian. 

Faith and Health

In this episode, I sit down with my friend John to discuss his faith journey and radical health transformation in his 40s following a life-altering heart attack. We discuss the role of his faith in influencing his decision to get healthy as well as his views on certain dietary restrictions that come from scripture. We discuss issues with the modern public health system and the Church's role in the broader health and wellness dialogue. 

The Pope

In this conversation, Peyton and Randy delve into the complexities of the papacy, exploring its role, scriptural foundations, historical context, and the evolution of papal authority. They discuss the significance of the Pope within the Catholic Church, the challenges faced by the papacy, and the controversies that have arisen over time. The dialogue aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the papacy, especially from a Protestant perspective, while addressing common misconceptions and highlighting the important role of church structure and authority.

Home Church

In this episode, I sit down with my good friend Taylor to discuss his faith journey and his decision to start his own home church. In this conversation, we explore the dynamics of home church gatherings, the role of itinerant pastors, and the importance of authentic relationships within the Christian community.  We talk about an increasing trend towards rural living and its spiritual significance, as well as the heart behind Taylor's initiative, A Common Life, which emphasizes the beauty of ordinary living and gardening.
 
A Common Life:
https://acommonlife.substack.com/
 
Legacy Ministries:
https://www.legacyministries.com/