Influence Podcast

Episodes

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  436. Discerning God Amidst the Noise 08.10.2026 55m

  "Take your Bible and take your newspaper and read them both. But interpret newspapers from your Bible," Karl Barth famously advised young theologians. "The problem with Barth's quote is not what he meant by it but its relevance for today," writes Steven Félix-Jäger. "Since we've democratized our news outlets, we don't get much of our news from newspapers anymore. Instead, we have highly partisan news television, YouTube channels, Reddit, TikTok, and podcasts. Unfortunately, he goes on to say, "this flood of information has also opened the door to misinformation, disinformation, echo chambers, and ever-increasing divisions. Many churchgoers and even some pastors find it tough to grasp what's happening in the world today." In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk to Félix-Jäger about how to practice discernment in the midst of a culture flooded by mixed messages. I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Steven Félix-Jäger is associate professor of systematic theology at Vanguard University, an Assemblies of God credentialed minister, and author of Hearing God, Following the Spirit: Practicing Discernment in a Pluralistic Age.   Sponsor Ad This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of Multiplication Mindset. In Multiplication Mindset, Gerad Strong brings together decades of real-life ministry experience—revitalizing churches, multiplying campuses, and equipping leaders—to help leaders move beyond addition thinking and into sustainable, mission-driven impact. Multiplication isn't a strategy for a few high-capacity churches. It's God's design for every church.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:37 — What is discernment? 05:49 — What is pluralism? And why is pluralism a better way to describe our current moment than secularism? 18:46 —  How do we hear God when there are so many other religions and ideologies shouting for our attention? 25:58 — What's the difference between disinformation and misinformation? And how do we cut down the noise to hear God speak to us? 34:50 — What is political tribalism, and how do we follow the Spirit in an increasingly politically divided America? 43:00 — How can we follow the Spirit the "dark" experiences of life make it difficult to see him? 53:03 — What are you reading right now that's interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 54:09— Conclusion
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  435. Not Dead Yet 24.09.2026 35m

  Byron Johnson and Thomas Kidd take a contrarian stance against "dominant media and scholarly narratives regarding religion" in their new book, The Death of Religion?, published by B&H Academic. "We present conclusive data to show that religious people are thriving and that practicing religious people are thriving most of all. We further show that at almost every turn, commonly used polling and survey data is misleading, confused, or grossly incomplete," they write. "We also demonstrate that typical surveys of American congregational life undercount the number of American churches by as much as 40 percent. The uncounted churches are disproportionately evangelical or Pentecostal, and often minister to immigrants and people of color." I talk to the authors about their contrarian stance in this episode of the Influence Podcast. I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Byron Johnson is founding director of the Institute for Studies of Religion and distinguished professor of the social sciences at Baylor University. Thomas Kidd is research professor of church history at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and senior research scholar at the Institute for Studies of Religion.   Sponsor Ad This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of The Assemblies of God: Our Story by Daniel D. Isgrigg. Explore the inspiring history of the Assemblies of God from a handful of ministers to a worldwide fellowship of more than 85 million believers. Discover the legacy, mission, and Spirit-filled story that continues to impact the world today. For more information about The Assemblies of God: Our Story visit GospelPublishingHouse.com.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 01:58 —  What are the dominant — and negative — media and scholarly narratives about religion? 02:44 — But isn't it true that there's been a notable dropoff in religious affiliation? 06:10 —  Worries about the impending death of Christianity in America predate the nation's Founding and can be discerned in every era of American history. Tell us a little about that. 10:39 — Tell us about the correlation between the decline of Mainline Protestantism and the rise of the nones. And how accurate a picture do statistical data give us, anyway? 20:48 — What is human flourishing, and what do data show about the connection between religion and flourishing? 24:01 — It's one thing to talk about flourishing when your life is going well , but data seems to indicate that religion contributes to flourishing even in prison. Tell us a little about that. 27:25 — What's your counternarrative to the declinist narratives? What do the data show us about what is actually happening? 32:17 — What are you reading right now that's interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 35:12— Conclusion
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  434. Leading the Worship Community 10.09.2026 38m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. I began vocational ministry the summer of 1990 and have served in various capacities ever since. As ministers, we often focus on what happens on Sunday morning as the people of God gather to worship. But for Sunday morning worship to go well, you need a worship community that is up for the task. How do you build such a community? What do you choose to sing in a multigenerational church? And how do you handle criticisms from church members? Those are the questions I discuss with Josh Shaffer in this episode of the Influence Podcast. Shaffer is worship pastor at Central Assembly of God in Springfield, Missouri, where I am a member and Sunday school teacher. What really strikes me about Shaffer's ministry is both the growth of the worship community — i.e., singers, band, choir, orchestra — and the revitalization of the worshipping community, i.e., the congregation.   Sponsor AdThis episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of Multiplication Mindset. In Multiplication Mindset, Gerad Strong brings together decades of real-life ministry experience—revitalizing churches, multiplying campuses, and equipping leaders—to help leaders move beyond addition thinking and into sustainable, mission-driven impact. Multiplication isn't a strategy for a few high-capacity churches. It's God's design for every church. For more information about Multiplication Mindset visit GospelPublishingHouse.com.
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  433. How to Pay Attention to the Spirit 27.08.2026 48m

  "We live in an age where attention has become our most endangered resource. Every sound, every scroll, every urgency competes for it. But what if the real threat to our spiritual lives isn't disbelief, but distraction? What if the Spirit has not grown silent, but we have grown unable to hear?" Jeremy Sims asks these questions in The Way of the Spirit. He goes on to say: "I've come to see that much of the Christian life is not about gaining more faith but giving better attention. Attention is the soil where faith grows. It's how love learns to see. When we attend to what is small, we begin to glimpse what is holy." In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk to Sims about pay attention to what the Holy Spirit is doing in all the waypoints of a Christian's life. I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Jeremy Sims, D.Min., is professor of spiritual formation at Southeastern University, and ordained Assemblies of God minister, and author of The Way of the Spirit: Recognizing and Responding to God's Subtle Movements, published by InterVarity Press.   Sponsor Ad This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of A Disciple's Growth. Get a clear and practical roadmap for following Jesus with depth and purpose. Drawing from Scripture, the power of the Holy Spirit, and real-life examples, discover seven key dimensions of spiritual formation—Bible, Holy Spirit, missions, prayer, worship, service, and generosity—that shape believers into fully devoted disciples. For more information about A Disciple's Growth visit GospelPublishingHouse.com.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:44 —  You write, "I often tell my students that the Spirit they're searching for isn't waiting on the other side of their success. He's already within their confusion." What does it mean, and how is The Way of the Spirit a demonstration of your advice? 04:59 —  Are Pentecostal Christians especially prone to spiritual anxiety? 07:30 — The difference between "crisis" and "process" spiritualities 12:27 — What are "attention" and "granularity," and why are they important? 21:24 — What is the second waypoint, "desert formation," about? 27:35 — What is the fourth waypoint, "interior journey," about, and why is it important? 36:57 — Tell us a little more about the seventh waypoint, "sacred ordinary." 39:31 — Why do you illustrate your waypoints with examples from before or outside the Protestant Reformation? 46:09 — What are you reading right now that's interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 47:54— Conclusion
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  432. The Pastoral Art of Listening 20.08.2026 49m

  Deuteronomy 6:4 is one of the Bible's foundational texts. "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one." Theologically, this verse is foundational because it teaches monotheism — the existence of only one true God. Spiritually, however, the verse is foundational because it identifies a necessary practice of faith — listening. The Hebrew verb for "listen" is "shema", and it appears 1,165 times in the Old Testament. "Shema" connotes not only the passive action of hearing, but also the active response of heeding or listening with obedience. Listening is also important in the New Testament. There, a foundational text is James 1:19. "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk to Dr. Don Lichi about best practices pastors can employ to actively listen to other people … and to God. I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Dr. Don Lichi is a licensed psychologist with over four decades and 53,000 clinical hours of experience. He is vice president emeritus of Emerge Counseling Ministries and clinical director of Safety Forces Support Center, which provides mental health services to area first responders.  Sponsor AdThis episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of Autism in the Church. Make your church a place where everyone belongs. Many congregations feel unprepared to walk beside individuals with autism and their loved ones. Autism in the Church equips churches to create an environment where individuals with autism are not just present, but known, discipled, and celebrated as vital parts of the body of Christ. For more information about Autism in the Church visit GospelPublishingHouse.com. Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:24 —  Why does Christian ministry require pastors to listen, not just speak? 09:06 —  How can listening help Christians foster better interpersonal relationships? 10:54 — Is there a difference between "hearing" and "listening"? And if there is, how do we pay attention so that our hearing becomes listening? 15:26 — What are some ways that our posture can signal, "I am listening"? 20:42 — What are some ways that our follow-up questions can signal we are listening? 33:52 — How do we listen reflectively, or mirror back what we are hearing? 38:29 — How does what we've talked about so far help us to develop the habit of listening to God speak to us in day-to-day life? 46:14 — What are you reading right now that's interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 49:01 — Conclusion
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  431. Why You Should Take a Nap 13.08.2026 34m

  "Sometimes I wonder if heaven will feel a bit like an afternoon nap," writes Brett McCracken in The Wisdom of Sleep. Maybe it's because naps are signpost of something far greater that we've not yet fully experienced. Maybe it's because even the most relaxing vacation, replenishing Sabbath, and restorative night's sleep are only teasers for the perfect rest we're wired to desire. Maybe there's more to sleep and rest than we think. Maybe in his mysterious sovereignty, God designed these things to be a sacred portal of sorts, a connective tissue between heaven and earth, between death and resurrection, between the God of rest and the restless souls who can't help but be magnetically tugged toward him. In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk to McCracken about these "maybes," what sleep reveals about God and us. I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Brett McCracken is a senior editor at The Gospel Coalition, where he writes on the intersection of faith and culture. He is also author of The Wisdom of Sleep: How Rest Reveals God's Truth and Revives Weary Souls, published by Zondervan Reflective. Sponsor AdThis episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of Trusted with Treasureby Assemblies of God General Secretary Brad Kesler. Just as nautical charts and lighthouses guide captains safely past hazards, this handbook on ministerial ethics will help equip you to build healthy relationships, avoid unwise behaviors, and serve with integrity and the highest ethical standards. For more information about Trusted with Treasure visit GospelPublishingHouse.com. Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:08 — How does sleep speak gospel truth? 04:01 — What does sleep reveal about our limitations? 06:01 — What do you think of secular and religious attempts to transcend our limitations? 09:05 — What do science and the Bible say about the generative powers of sleep? 12:26 — What does the Bible say about supernatural dreams? 15:15 — The need for discernment in interpreting dreams 16:16 — How do we become a restful presence for others? 19:02 — What does rest reveal about God as an "intentional designer"? 21:54 — What do you mean when you write, "God creates a distinct people through rest"? 26:56 — How does sleep reveal God as "gracious and loving," and also as "sovereign and merciful"? 31:59 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 33:55 — Conclusion
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  430. Paul as Mentor-Pastor 06.08.2026 35m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Lee Grady writes the following in his book, Lead Like Paul: Saul of Tarsus — who eventually became known by his Greek name, Paul — is our mentor and spiritual father. Apart from Jesus Himself, he is our best example. Of course, we have Peter, James, John, Mary Magdalene, and so many other first-century disciples who walked closely with Jesus. But Paul was unique. He didn't travel with Jesus or witness His miracles, yet he fully surrendered to the resurrected Christ, he understood the truth of Jesus better than almost any human being on earth, he spread the gospel throughout the Roman Empire, and he was used by the Holy Spirit to lay the foundation for a Christian movement that has spread globally. For all these reasons and more, Grady argues, Paul is a mentor we should imitate in our own ministries. In this episode, I talk to Grady about how we can begin to do so. Lee Grady is an ordained minister in the International Pentecostal Holiness Church, award-winning journalist, and author, most recently, of Lead Like Paul: 21 Ways to Reignite Your Spiritual Fire and Expand Your Spirit-Led Influence, published by Chosen Books. Sponsor Ad This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of The Assemblies of God: Our Story by Daniel D. Isgrigg. Explore the inspiring history of the Assemblies of God from a handful of ministers to a worldwide fellowship of more than 85 million believers. Discover the legacy, mission, and Spirit-filled story that continues to impact the world today. For more information about The Assemblies of God: Our Story visit GospelPublishingHouse.com. Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 03:00 — Why Lead Like Paul, rather than Lead Like Jesus or Lead Like Peter or Lead Like James? 05:08 — Why start with humility, and how does Paul model humility for Christian leaders? 7:37 — Chapters 4 and 5 discuss loving people and being present. What was the impetus for writing these two chapters? And how can pastors develop both better people skills and greater presence? 11:21 — Chapter 6 is titled, "You Need Power, Not Just Head Knowledge." Why is this the case? What function do the words "not just" play in this title? And how do we develop what the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary calls "knowledge on fire"? 20:06 — Why are the temptations of sexual immorality and financial exploitation such a problem for ministers, and how we do we overcome them? 23:57 — Why is forgiveness so important, and how we do we forgive congregants who have harmed us? 26:56 — What trends in the Pentecostal and charismatic movements worry you today? What trends bring you hope? 32:11 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 34:21 — Conclusion
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  429. The Foundation of Ministry Is Prayer 09.07.2026 45m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Joe Oden writes the following in his new book, Empowered to Pray: In an hour when many leaders are fixated on numerical growth, how to accommodate and make seekers feel comfortable, leadership strategies, higher education, and enhanced communications, we observe that well-intended leaders are trying to advance the kingdom of God in their own strength. However, when we look at the ministry of Jesus and the early church, we find a different path forward. … Their foundation was prayer, and everything they did originated from their private and corporate devotions. In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk to Oden about the importance of prayer for Christian ministry, as well how the Lord himself teaches us to pray. Oden is an evangelist, ordained Assemblies of God minister, and director of the AG World Prayer Center. He is also author of Empowered to Pray: Advancing the Kingdom of God Through Prayer and Intercession, published by Gospel Publishing House.   Sponsor AdThis episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of Multiplication Mindset. In Multiplication Mindset, Gerad Strong brings together decades of real-life ministry experience—revitalizing churches, multiplying campuses, and equipping leaders—to help leaders move beyond addition thinking and into sustainable, mission-driven impact. Multiplication isn't a strategy for a few high-capacity churches. It's God's design for every church. For more information about Multiplication Mindset visit GospelPublishingHouse.com.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:32 — Tell us more about how private and corporate prayer are the foundation of Christian ministry. 07:23 — Does prayer compete with leadership strategies, or are they complementary? 10:52 — Why does prayer need a set place, a specific time, and ample time? 14:18 — Why are both "crisis" moments and "process" habits important? 21:09 — What is intimacy with God, and how do we develop it? 24:03 — What does God want? And when does it come to pass? 28:32 — How does God's kingdom advance through the Church, irrespective of law and politics? 34:48 — How does Jesus teach us to pray with persistence? 40:33 — What does the Assemblies of god World Prayer Center do, and how can someone get involved with it? 42:51 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 44:49 — Conclusion
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  428. Dangers Ministers Don't See 02.07.2026 32m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk Assemblies of God General Superintendent Doug Clay about themes in his new book, Blind Spots: The Invisible Vulnerabilities Shaping Your Leadership, published by Gospel Publishing House. Introducing the topic of his book, Clay writes: "The most dangerous threats to spiritual leaders are not external opposition or cultural pressure, but rather the invisible vulnerabilities that distort calling and quietly erode faithful obedience. Every leader carries these invisible vulnerabilities — these blind spots — and no amount of spiritual maturity or leadership experience makes someone immune to them. … "Because blind spots are invisible by nature, recognizing and treating them requires disciplined reflection, honest feedback, and a corrective community. Paul echoes this truth throughout the New Testament. He warns those in positions of spiritual authority to 'keep watch over yourselves' (Acts 20:20) and cautions Timothy to 'watch your life and doctrine closely' (1 Timothy 4:16). It is my belief that many spiritual leaders fail not because they lack divine calling, but because they struggle with awareness of their blind spots."   Sponsor AdThis episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of Trusted with Treasureby Assemblies of God General Secretary Brad Kesler. Just as nautical charts and lighthouses guide captains safely past hazards, this handbook on ministerial ethics will help equip you to build healthy relationships, avoid unwise behaviors, and serve with integrity and the highest ethical standards. For more information about Trusted with Treasure visit GospelPublishingHouse.com.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:42 — What is a blind spot? 03:44 — The first blind spot is confusing calling with comparison. How does this blind spot work, and how can we overcome it? 08:38 — Mistaking familiarity with spiritual maturity is the second blind spot we're going to talk about. Same question: how does this blind spot work, and how can we overcome it? 11:38 — Losing curiosity about God is the third blind spot I want to talk about. How do ministers lose curiosity about God? And how do they recover it? 13:40 — The fourth blind spot I want to talk about is drifting from integrity to image management. In a world saturated with social media, this one seems especially important. What would you like Assemblies of God ministers to know about this one? 17:51 — In the book's Conclusion, you write: "One theme runs through all eight blind spots in this book: Healthy leadership requires embracing weakness, not projecting strength." Why is that? 21:02 — America celebrates its 250th anniversary this week. How should we be praying for our country in the lead up to July Fourth … and every day thereafter? 26:54 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 31:24 — Conclusion
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  427. Solving the Dishonesty Problem 28.05.2026 1h 1m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. "Honesty matters, and people care a great deal about it," writes Christian Miller. Yet we are facing an unprecedented erosion of honesty today — what I call an honesty crisis. Indeed, we are facing not just one crisis, but a variety of honesty crises in different parts of our society. … Fortunately, in many cases, there are concrete steps we can take to turn the tide." In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk about those steps with Christian Miller. He is the A. C. Reid Professor of Philosophy at Wake Forest University, president of the Society of Christian Philosophers, and author of The Honesty Crisis: Preserving Our Most Treasured Virtue in an Increasingly Dishonest World, published by Oxford University Press.   Sponsor AdThis episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of Trusted with Treasureby Assemblies of God General Secretary Brad Kesler. Just as nautical charts and lighthouses guide captains safely past hazards, this handbook on ministerial ethics will help equip you to build healthy relationships, avoid unwise behaviors, and serve with integrity and the highest ethical standards. For more information about Trusted with Treasure visit GospelPublishingHouse.com. Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:25 — What is honesty, and why do you think we're having an "honesty crisis"? 07:30 — How honest are most people typically, and why do we lie? 13:24 — What's the "online infidelity" crisis, and what can we do about it? 25:58 — What is the "fake news and politics" crisis, and what can we do about it? 35:30 — What is "sermon plagiarism," why is it wrong, and what can we do about it?? 46:23 — Pastors sometimes fall to the temptations of "online infidelity" and "celebrity." What's going on here and what can we do about it? 50:44 — As a Christian philosopher, what general advice would you give pastors about helping their congregations become more honest both individually and corporately?? 57:40 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 1:00:16 — Conclusion
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  426. Holy Worldliness? 21.05.2026 47m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. "Paul didn't want believers to detach themselves from life in this world," writes Nijay Gupta. "He didn't want 'otherworldliness' only. He also didn't want them to be preoccupied with only temporary and fleeting things, 'cheap worldliness.' He wanted believers to imitate Christ and walk in the Spirit here and now — 'holy worldliness'." In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk to Gupta about what this means, based on his new book. Nijay Gupta, Ph.D., is Julius R. Mantey Professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary and author of Paul for the World, published by Brazos Press.   Sponsor AdThis episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of What Paul Really Taught About Women in Ministry. In this insightful study, New Testament scholar Waldemar Kowalski carefully examines the historical and cultural contexts behind Paul's most challenging statements about women in ministry. By placing these passages within their proper setting, Kowalski helps readers see a clearer picture of Paul's intent. The result is both thoughtful and compelling: Paul's message about women in ministry was ultimately one of affirmation, not restriction. For more information about What Paul Really Taught About Women in Ministry visit GospelPublishingHouse.com.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 01:49 — For many listeners, "holy worldliness" is an oxymoron. So, what do you mean by that phrase? 07:45 — Why do you think Paul was a good exemplar of holy worldliness? 11:03 — How does Paul inform Christians on the topic of ethnic equality? 20:21 — What does a first-century Roman have to say to 21st-century Americans about economics? 26:02 — Paul rarely if ever used the Greek terms for friendship. So, what does he have to say about a topic he seemingly wrote nothing about? 30:33 — What does Paul say to us about sports? 38:08 In your opinion as a seminary professor, what is the spiritual and intellectual value of doing research for yourself? Do you have concerns about ministers using AI? 44:58 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 46:18 — Conclusion
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  425. Would Anyone Notice if Your Church Disappeared? 14.05.2026 35m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. "Regardless of your Sunday attendance numbers, your church can become one of the most influential organizations in your city," writes Kevin Foster. "As culture drifts further from the local church, one of the most powerful ways to become relevant again is to engage with the brokenness in the community around you." In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk to Foster about his book, Run to the Brokenness. We discuss the relationship between evangelism and compassion, better metrics for measuring ministry effectiveness, how to operationalize compassion in your congregation, and much more. Kevin Foster is the founding pastor of LifeBridge Community Church in Fresno, Calif., and author of Run to the Brokenness: How Your Church Can Be the Center of Your Community, published by Avail.   Sponsor AdThis episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of Trusted with Treasureby Assemblies of God General Secretary Brad Kesler. Just as nautical charts and lighthouses guide captains safely past hazards, this handbook on ministerial ethics will help equip you to build healthy relationships, avoid unwise behaviors, and serve with integrity and the highest ethical standards. For more information about Trusted with Treasure visit GospelPublishingHouse.com.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 01:53 — What does "Run to the brokenness mean," and what was the impetus for this concept in your life and ministry? 09:06 — Why do we need to do redefine success in the local church? And what are better metrics for measuring success? 11:48 — Different communities have different needs, so how does a church identify points of brokenness in its community? 16:19 — How do you address the brokenness within a church? And how do you operationalize your ministry to those points of brokenness? 22:20 — How do you respond to these three objections: (1) My church isn't big enough to do this. (2) As a pastor, I don't have enough capacity. (3) We don't have enough money. 24:31 — How do we create the culture that wants to address the points of pain and need in a community? 30:20 How do you keep evangelism and compassion together? 33:28 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 34:43 — Conclusion
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  424. A Biblical Case for Women Leading Churches 07.05.2026 36m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Recently, a prominent Southern Baptist leader called on his denomination to end the confusion caused when Baptist churches allow women to be called pastors. "The vast majority of Southern Baptists … are absolutely clear and have been all along that the office of pastors is restricted to men as qualified by Scripture," he said. By contrast, the Assemblies of God position paper, "Women in Ministerial Leadership," says, "Scripture clearly advocates for women as ministers and leaders." Consequently, the Assemblies of God credentials those whom God has called and empowered, whether they are women or men. Both groups appeal to Scripture and argue about two passages in particular: 1 Corinthians 14:34–35 and 1 Timothy 2:8–15. In this episode, I talk to Waldemar Kowalski about what these passages actually mean. Waldemar Kowalski, Ph.D., is a global worker with the Assemblies of God, the teaching pastor at IES Bandung (AG) in Indonesia, and author of What Paul Really Taught About Women in Ministry: Matching Paul's Practice and Instruction, published by Logion Press. My conversation with Kowalski is coming up after a brief word from our sponsor.   Sponsor AdThis episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of The Assemblies of God: Our Story by Daniel D. Isgrigg. Explore the inspiring history of the Assemblies of God from a handful of ministers to a worldwide fellowship of more than 85 million believers. Discover the legacy, mission, and Spirit-filled story that continues to impact the world today. For more information about The Assemblies of God: Our Story visit GospelPublishingHouse.com.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:17 — What does the biblical evidence say women did in Paul's churches? Why is what Paul did as important as what we believe Paul said? 06:07 — What are the basic hermeneutical rules that ought to guide us as we interpret Scripture? And what does 1 Corinthian 14:34–35 actually prohibit? 14:22 — Some New Testament scholars argue that 1 Corinthians 14:34–35 is not authentic. You disagree. Why do you think the verses are original? 16:42 — The biggest impediment to women serving as pastors or any other leadership role in the Church is the traditional interpretation of 1 Timothy 2:8–15. What is the traditional interpretation of those verses, Why do you think it fails? And what is the best interpretation of 1 Timothy 2:8–15? 27:02 — Another set of passages that seems to imply a prohibition of women leading churches is 1 Timothy 3:1–12 and Titus 1:5–9, which talk about elders and deacons being the "husband of one wife," which seems to imply that they're male. What's the best understanding of those passages? 30:45 — You and your wife serve together on the mission field. She is the senior pastor, and you're a Bible professor. Based on your experience, what do churches lose when they block half the church from living out the callings God has called and empowered them to perform? 31:54 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 35:14 — Conclusion
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  423. The Church Friendliness Crisis 30.04.2026 33m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. In this episode I talk to Prof. Matthew D. Kim about his new book, Becoming a Friendlier Church: A Pathway to Genuine Community, forthcoming from Baker Books. Our focus is why churches are unfriendly and how they can become friendlier. "In this book, I want to draw attention to a crisis in congregations that may not be on many people's radars: too many churches are less friendly than they realize," Kim writes. "Unfriendliness might be furtively devouring their church's ministry effectiveness, influence, and longevity." Every church thinks it's friendly. But Kim writes, "Just as in the first round of American Idol, where some contestants overstate their singing abilities as they audition, many Christians believe they are good, friendly welcomers even if they're not." Matthew D. Kim, Ph.D., is professor of preaching and pastoral leadership, holder of the George W. Truett Endowed Chair in Preaching and Evangelism, and director of the Ph.D. in preaching program at Baylor University's Truett Seminary.   Sponsor AdThis episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of Autism in the Church. Make your church a place where everyone belongs. Many congregations feel unprepared to walk beside individuals with autism and their loved ones. Autism in the Church equips churches to create an environment where individuals with autism are not just present, but known, discipled, and celebrated as vital parts of the body of Christ. For more information about Autism in the Church visit GospelPublishingHouse.com. Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:27 — Defining friendliness and unfriendliness 04:43 — Why church friendliness is at crisis levels 07:03 — Apathy 11:50 — Busyness 17:32 — Prejudice 24:32 — Friendliness during a person's greatest needs 27:27 — What preachers can do 30:04 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 32:14 — Conclusion
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  422. What Churches Should Know About Autism 26.03.2026 43m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. "The church is called to be a place of belonging for all people," writes Julie Pratt. "Paul reminded us in 1 Corinthians 12:12–27 that the body of Christ is made up of many different parts, each one valuable and necessary. In verse 22 he wrote, 'Some of the parts that seem weakest and least important are actually the most necessary' (NLT)." Pratt goes on to write, "That means individuals with autism aren't just people we need to 'accommodate' out of obligation. They are essential to the life of the church. When we fail to make space for them, we're not just failing those individuals and their families. We're missing out on the fullness of the body of Christ." In this episode, I talk to Pratt about what churches need to know about people with autism in order better to include them in the life of the congregation. Julie Pratt is Kidmin Discipleship Director for the Assemblies of God and author of Autism in the Church, published by Salubris. My conversation with her begins after a brief word from our sponsor.   Sponsor Ad This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of A Disciple's Growth. Get a clear and practical roadmap for following Jesus with depth and purpose. Drawing from Scripture, the power of the Holy Spirit, and real-life examples, discover seven key dimensions of spiritual formation—Bible, Holy Spirit, missions, prayer, worship, service, and generosity—that shape believers into fully devoted disciples.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:27 — Let's start with your personal experience with autism then move to a more formal definition of autism and a description of its prevalence in the U.S. 09:00 — You ask, "Is autism also a part of Your image, God?" How do you answer that question? 15:29 — What are some of the challenges people with autism face in attending church, and how can leadership address those challenges? 21:10 — What are some of the things church leaders should keep in mind when it comes to discipling people with autism? 25:19 — How do we train volunteers throughout the congregation to minister more effectively to people with autism? 29:48 — We have been talking about ministry to people with autism, but what about ministry with and by people with autism? 35:32 — How can we support families who have a member with autism beyond the four ways of the church on Sunday morning? 40:59 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 42:21 — Conclusion
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  421. The Problem of Hell 19.03.2026 58m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. "The doctrine of hell can be a powerful motivator," writes Allen Tennison. "Many believers initially responded to a salvation message for fear of going to hell. Christians have also dedicated themselves to prayer, evangelism, and global missions over the threat of hell." "Images of hell can also move people in the other direction," Tennison says. "Some reject Christianity because of its teaching on hell. They refuse to believe in a God who would allow people to suffer eternal torment or dismiss what they see as fear-based threats from preachers," "What some view as motivation, others consider manipulation," Tennison concludes. In this episode, I talk to Tennison about the problem of hell based on his article, "What We Believe About the Final Judgment," from the Winter 2026 issue of Influence. Allen Tennison is theological counsel to the General Council of the Assemblies of God and author of the long running What We Believe series in Influence magazine. He will conclude that series in the Spring 2026 issue with an article titled, "What We Believe About the New Heavens and New Earth." Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction 01:28 — What words does the Bible use both to name hell and to describe it? 09:12 — Why is hell a "problem" for believing Christians? 13:03 — Questions about annihilationism/conditional immortality 20:14 — Questions about universalism 26:26 — Questions about eternal conscious torment 35:33 — Advocates of the traditional doctrine of hell utilize use two apologetic strategies: retribution and choice. Does the AG have a position? 45:53 — How do we preach the doctrine of hell in a spiritual formative way? 49:10 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 58:02 — Conclusion
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  420. The Importance of Ethical Ministry 13.03.2026 35m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. "Most professions have ethical codes of conduct that govern the behavior of members," writes Brad Kesler. "If ethical behavior is important for other professions, how much more for ministers of the Lord Jesus Christ?" Kesler wrote a just-published book on ministerial ethics to "equip all God's people, and especially ministers, to conduct ministry in such a way that it glorifies God, protects and encourages the church, and sets up the minister for long-term, healthy ministry. Too many ministers have shipwrecked their ministries on the rocks of ignorance and sin." In this episode, I talk to Kesler about the importance of ministerial ethics generally as well as the issues of money, sex, and power specifically. Brad Kesler is general secretary of the Assemblies of God and (full disclosure) my boss. He is author of Trusted with Treasure: A Handbook of Ethics in Ministry, published by Gospel Publishing House.   Sponsor Ad This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of The Third Voice. Students are surrounded by noise—voices that distract, entertain, and shape their beliefs—yet they feel more alone than ever. Anxiety, identity struggles, and hopelessness are rising. What's missing is a third voice: a mentor who speaks truth, hope, and biblical wisdom. The Third Voice equips youth pastors, leaders, and mentors to step into that gap. For more information about The Third Voice visit GospelPublishingHouse.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 01:55 — Why is ethics crucial to Pentecostal ministry? 02:55 — Chapter 3 outlines a process for ethical decision-making. Can you walk us through that process? 06:35 — Why do you focus on the issues of money, sex, and power. And what temptations does money pose to ministers. 11:30 — How should ministers face the temptations posed by sex outside of marriage? 14:39 — How should ministers navigate the dilemmas power poses to them? 16:38 — What are best practices for relationships on a church or ministry team? 24:13 — What are best practices for relating to the fellowship, whether at the sectional, district, or national level? 28:35 — What are some practical ways for ministers to use social media well? 33:18 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 34:47 — Conclusion
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  419. Using Good Judgment in Worship 05.03.2026 1h 5m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. "The so-called worship wars often consist of ill-suited judgments about worship," writes Steven Félix-Jäger. "The debates generally center around the question of what constitutes appropriate worship and can include issues such as the use of contemporary music versus traditional hymns, the role of preaching, the usual of visual aids and technology, and the role of personal experience in worship." In this episode, I talk to Félix-Jäger about how to assess the arguments in these debates and use good judgment when planning a worship service. Steven Félix-Jäger is associate professor and chair of Worship Arts and Media at Life Pacific University and a credentialed minister in the Foursquare Church. He is author of How to Worship for All Its Worth, published by Zondervan Academic. Sponsor Ad This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of A Disciple's Growth. Get a clear and practical roadmap for following Jesus with depth and purpose. Drawing from Scripture, the power of the Holy Spirit, and real-life examples, discover seven key dimensions of spiritual formation—Bible, Holy Spirit, missions, prayer, worship, service, and generosity—that shape believers into fully devoted disciples. For more information about A Disciple's Growth visit GospelPublishingHouse.com. Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 01:49 — How do you define "worship"? 06:20 — Should all churches adopt a common worship style or improve whatever style they currently utilize? Or both? 11:35 — What do you mean by "judgment," generally speaking, and what is good "biblical judgment"? 23:30 — What is aesthetics, and how do we exercise good aesthetic judgment? 31:58 — How is theological judgment different from biblical judgment, and how do you use it in the context of planning a worship service? 47:37 — What is pastoral judgment, and how do we use it? 53:18 — What is "flow," and how do we plan a worship service for better flow? 1:03:48 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 1:04:34 — Conclusion
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  418. Taking Kidmin to the Next Level 26.02.2026 46m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. "Children's ministry is arguably one of the most difficult ministries to lead, but it is also the most rewarding," writes David Reneau. "We get the sacred opportunity to be some of the first people to tell little children — the next generation — about Jesus. We get to plant the seeds, tend and water the soil, and watch the first little tender sprouts peek out of the ground as our kids begin their faith journey and discover their calling." What are the best ways to maximize this opportunity? In this episode, I talk to David Reneau about how to make the most of your congregation's children's ministry. Reneau is an ordained Assemblies of God minister and lead pastor at Encounter Church in Toccoa, Georgia, with over 17 years of hands-on children's ministry experience. He is author of Next-Level Kidmin: The Children's Pastor's Practical Guide to Building a Thriving Ministry.   Sponsor Ad This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by Gospel Publishing House, distributors of The Heart of a Pathfinder. You're not just leading for now; you're building for what's next. How big would you dream if you saw your ministry through a generational lens? Melissa Alfaro challenges us to approach leadership through the lens of a pathfinder. She calls ministry leaders to do the hard work of clearing the path so future generations can step into their call. For more information about The Heart of a Pathfinder visit GospelPublishingHouse.com. ​ Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:05 — How do we keep the gospel central to our Kidmin leadership? 04:36 — What are the three fundamental elements of children's ministry? 16:51 — What are the best practices for recruiting, training, and even firing volunteers? 27:15 — How do you decide whether a Sunday school model or a small group model is the best fit for you congregation's children's ministry? 30:15 — How do you plan a children's church service that keeps the kids' energies at appropriate levels throughout the service? 35:37 — Give us a few ideas about how to pick the best curriculum. Also, how do we incorporate action — evangelism, missions, compassion — into our lesson planning? 41:41 — How do we do the work of ministry in a way that doesn't kill the work of God in us personally? 44:31 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 45:35 — Conclusion
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  417. Spirit-Empowered Multiplication 19.02.2026 32m

  Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Ministers hear a lot about church multiplication these days. Sometimes, the phrase is little more than a synonym for church planting. Other times, it refers to multisite ministry in which one church exists in many locations. "Multiplication isn't just about strategy or structure," Gerad Strong writes, however. "It's about Spirit-empowered imagination. When we lead through the power of the Holy Spirit, we're not simply managing what is — we're awakening to what could be." In this episode, I talk to Gerad Strong about how ministers can develop this Spirit-empowered imagination. Strong is director of Leadership and Training for the Church Multiplication Network of the Assemblies of God. His new book is Multiplication Mindset: How Spirit-Empowered Leaders Build People, Not Just Platforms, forthcoming from Gospel Publishing House.   Sponsor Ad This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by My Healthy Church, distributors of As In Heaven. This six-week study is designed to help you move beyond fear or formality and step into confident, life-giving prayer. Each week unpacks a portion of the Lord's Prayer, pairing Jesus' words with reflection questions, group discussion prompts, and a Bible memory verse to guide your journey. For more information about As In Heaven visit GospelPublishingHouse.com.   Show Notes 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:04 — What is "multiplication," as you use the term in your book? 02:48 — Tell us a little about your own journey with multiplication, as this informs what you write about in the book. 07:48 — What are the essential elements of a multiplication mindset? 12:28 — What is the foundation of multiplication? 19:13 — How does growth begin with maximizing what you already have? And what role does strategic thinking play? 20:48 — What are the traditional metrics of ministry, and what should they be? 26:49 — What resources does CMN provide for ministers and churches that are considering church planting, church multiplication, church revitalization? 30:31 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 31:17 — Conclusion