Shows
The Grove ChurchThe Cost of Being a DiscipleThis week on Cultivate, we unpacked the cost of being a disciple and what it truly means to follow Jesus. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone dove into Luke 14:25–35, where Jesus challenges the crowds with strong words about commitment—going so far as to say that following Him means “hating” even family and choosing a completely new way of life. We explored what Jesus’ hyperbolic language really means in context, and how counting the cost of discipleship isn’t about earning grace but about fully embracing the new life Christ offers. The conversation highlighted the tension between God’s unconditional love and the w...
2026-06-0338 min
Mixed Takes1994What are the best albums of 1994? Join Michael Anderson, Ben Gilbert, Marsha Boone, and me as we explore this diverse year of music. This year has lots of alternative rock records (Beck, Hole, Built to Spill), some incredible rap releases (like Nas and Biggie) and electronic going in some new directions (Blur, Portishead, and NIN). And what five records will we decide are the best? Listen to find out!Episode PlaylistAlbums We Discuss PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook Page1994 Alternative Radio Hits1994 New York Rap
2026-05-182h 14
The Grove ChurchThe Parable of Salt and LightThis week on Cultivate, we dove into Jesus’s teachings about being “salt and light” from Matthew 5:13–16. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone explored how Jesus calls ordinary people—those listening on the hillside then, and us now—to bring life, hope, and goodness into the world. Together, we unpacked what it means to be the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world,” discussing both the historical context (why salt and light mattered so much) and how these metaphors speak to our purpose today. Rather than leaving these teachings for “super Christians,” Jesus emphasized that regular people, living out His ways with...
2026-05-1331 min
The Grove ChurchThe Parable of the WineskinsThis week on Cultivate, we explored questions about fasting through the parable of the wineskins in Matthew 9. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone unpacked why Jesus’ disciples didn’t fast like the Pharisees or John the Baptist’s followers, and what Jesus meant when He described Himself as the bridegroom. Together, we dug into Jesus’ teaching about new wine and old wineskins—how He invited people into a relationship with God rooted in grace, not rigid rule-following. We discussed how Jesus’ presence transformed spiritual practices, showing that closeness to Him is what truly matters, not just routine or tradition. This conversation...
2026-05-0636 min
The Grove ChurchBuild Your House on the RockThis week on Cultivate, we dove into the familiar parable of the wise and foolish builders from Matthew 7:24–27. Charlie Lofton and Abigail Boone explored how Jesus’ teaching at the end of the Sermon on the Mount isn’t just good advice, but a decisive invitation to build our lives on a solid foundation—by hearing His words and actually putting them into practice. We discussed how Jesus differentiates between simply liking His teachings and letting them shape our daily choices, especially when life’s storms come our way. Together, we considered what it really means to “storm-proof” your life and why Jesus’...
2026-04-3032 minMixed Takes1984Join Peter Vaughn, David Thurmaier, and I as we tackle the music of 1984. We cover a lot of different genres, from what was popular that year (Prince, Madonna, the Boss) to rap (Run-D.M.C. and the Fat Boys), alternative (Meat Puppets, REM, Cocteau Twins), hardcore/metal (Metallica, Husker Du, the Minutemen), and even classical (Arvo Part and the Amadeus soundtrack). Come join us!Episode PlaylistAlbums We Discuss PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook PageMost 80s 1984 SongsEarly Rap (1984)
2026-04-192h 17Mixed Takes1974Listen to Carolyn Fisher, Ellie Laser, and me discuss the music of 1974. It is an interesting and varied year! We cover classic rock (Eric Clapton, Neil Young, Lynyrd Skynyrd...), country (Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Gram Parsons...), funk (Stevie Wonder, The Fatback Band, Betty Davis...) and more! This was a particularly fun year to explore and an incredibly difficult one to decide on a top five. Give it a listen! Episode PlaylistAlbums We Discuss PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook PageSoft Classic Rock Classics from 19741974 Sampled Songs with the Originals
2026-03-232h 02
The Grove ChurchParable of the Pharisee and the Tax CollectorThis week on Cultivate, we explored Jesus’ Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector from Luke 18. Charlie Loften and Bagel Boone dove into the story’s surprising reversal: the seemingly moral Pharisee relies on his spiritual résumé, while the tax collector, aware of his own failures, humbly asks God for mercy. We examined how Jesus challenges common notions of righteousness—not just in first-century Israel, but in our own hearts today. What does it really mean to be “justified” before God? Can good behavior or rule-following make us right with Him, or is it about honest humility and dependen...
2026-03-1834 min
The Grove ChurchThe Parable of the DebtorThis week on Cultivate, we explored the parable of the debtor from Luke 7:36–50. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone dug into the story where Jesus is invited to dine with a Pharisee, only to be confronted by the humble actions of a woman labeled as a sinner. Together, we examined Jesus’ teaching through the parable of the two debtors, unpacking how gratitude and love flow from the depth of our forgiveness. We discussed why the Pharisee struggled to extend hospitality, and how Jesus’ response revealed his authority to forgive sins—challenging both ancient perspectives and our own. The conversation also touched...
2026-03-1130 min
The Grove ChurchThe Parable of the Unmerciful ServantThis week on Cultivate, we dove into the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant from Matthew 18:21–35. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone unpacked Jesus’ conversation with Peter about forgiveness—exploring why Jesus tells us to forgive not just seven times, but “seventy-seven times.” Together, we examined the massive debt forgiven by the king and the far smaller debt the servant refused to release, discussing how this extreme story challenges us to rethink our own perspective on grace and mercy.We talked about the difference between manageable forgiveness and the overwhelming, incomprehensible forgiveness God offers each of us, and why this shoul...
2026-03-0430 min
The Grove ChurchParable of the Lost SonThis week on Cultivate, we discussed the Parable of the Lost Son from Luke 15 and the incredible depth of God’s love for all of us—no matter how far we’ve wandered or how close we think we are. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone explored the heart and meaning behind each central character: the father, the younger (prodigal) son, and the older brother. Together, we unpacked the cultural and theological significance of Jesus’s story, highlighting how it challenges both those who feel unworthy of grace and those who feel they’ve earned it.We looked at real qu...
2026-02-2545 min
The Grove ChurchThe Parable of the Lost Sheep and the Lost CoinThis week on Cultivate, we explored the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin from Luke 15:1–10. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone unpacked how Jesus uses these stories to reveal God’s deep heart for those who feel far from Him. We discussed the context—religious leaders questioning why Jesus spent time with “sinners”—and what these parables teach us about the priority and joy God places on bringing lost people home. From vivid illustrations about the value of sheep and coins to thoughtful theological reflections, we considered how God’s love pursues us even when we feel unworthy, and...
2026-02-1835 minMixed Takes1964Join me as I journey into the music of 1964 with good friends Mike Hellis and Ryan Brown. After talking some overall history and sharing some lesser-known albums we enjoyed, we'll dive into trying to figure out what the best five albums were and ranking them. Will we be swept up in Beatlemania and crown A Hard Day's Night as a #1 album? Or maybe a different album from a British Invasion band from that year, like the Kinks or Rolling Stones' debuts? Then again, don't count out Americans Nina Simone, Chuck Berry, or Bob Dylan either. Check it out to...
2026-02-161h 50
The Grove ChurchHow Should We Study Parables? Context, Culture, and Application | Q&A Pt.2This week on Cultivate, we dove into how to faithfully approach Jesus’ parables and what it means to study them today. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone explored the cultural context of Jesus’ teachings—from agrarian metaphors to technology parallels in modern life—and why understanding the original audience matters so much. We talked about authorial intent, discussed why parables carry one big idea rather than many hidden meanings, and compared how we read Paul’s letters with the Gospels. Practical tips were shared for approaching parables: asking who Jesus was speaking to, discerning the main message, and reflecting on what detai...
2026-02-1133 min
The Grove ChurchThe Context Behind Jesus’ Parables | QA Pt.1This week on Cultivate, we kicked off a special Q&A conversation exploring the context into which Jesus stepped and the big questions that shaped His ministry. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone dove into what first-century Israel was really like: a nation occupied by Rome, full of religious tension, longing for liberation, and marked by a transactional view of God. Together, we unpacked how Jesus entered this world—not as a political revolutionary, but as a humble teacher whose miracles and message began to turn everything upside down.We looked at how the people listening to Jesus’ para...
2026-02-0431 min
The Grove ChurchThe Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the PearlThis week on Cultivate, we explored the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl from Matthew 13. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone dove into these simple yet profound stories about the kingdom of heaven—what it truly means to find something of ultimate value and how our perspective shifts once we’ve experienced it. Together, they engaged with the traditional interpretation that places us as seekers who give up everything for a greater purpose, and also grappled with a different theological view that considers Jesus as the one who sacrifices everything for us.The conversation highlighted how thes...
2026-01-2130 min
The Grove ChurchThe Parable of the Mustard Seed and the YeastThis week on Cultivate, we explored the parable of the mustard seed and the yeast from Matthew 13. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone unpacked how Jesus used these everyday images—a tiny seed that grows into a huge plant and a small amount of yeast that transforms a whole batch of dough—to explain the surprising nature of God’s kingdom. We discussed the expectations many had for a dramatic, immediate revolution and how Jesus’ vision was something quieter but more subversive: real change starts small, takes root, and eventually reshapes everything around it. Along the way, we learned what these im...
2026-01-1429 min
The Grove ChurchParable of the WeedsThis week on Cultivate, we dug into the Parable of the Weeds from Matthew 13, exploring what Jesus really meant when He described the kingdom of heaven as a field where wheat and weeds grow side by side. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone examined Jesus’s explanation of this parable and how it overturns expectations about God’s kingdom—moving away from an immediate, dramatic revolution and toward a patient, enduring hope. We discussed why God allows evil to persist in the world and how His desire for people to turn to Him shapes His patience. Along the way, we wrestl...
2026-01-0737 minMixed TakesSeason 3 Mixtape RankingsIt's time for the annual Mixtape Olympics, where guests from this season were invited to make a playlist reflecting the years that were covered: 1963, 1973, 1983, 1993, 2003, 2013, and 2023. Ryan Brown, Kristy Brown, and Marsha Boone join me to count down the eight playlists. If you have not already, definitely listen to them first!3 Is the Magic Number (Jerry Shrall)Latin Good Time (me)Mixdtakes (Caroline Green)Mixed Takes x3 (Mike Ferrigno)
2026-01-041h 12
The Grove ChurchThe Parable of the SowerThis week on Cultivate, we kicked off our Parables series by diving into the Parable of the Sower from Matthew 13. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone explored why Jesus chose to tell this story to a diverse crowd gathered by the lake, unpacking both the practical challenges of parable storytelling and the deeper meaning behind Jesus’ words. Together, we looked at the different types of “soil” representing people’s hearts and how God’s Word is sown generously, regardless of someone’s background or readiness.We discussed how original listeners might have been puzzled by the generosity—even what seemed li...
2025-12-3133 min
The Grove ChurchThe Heart of Parables: Big Truths in Simple StoriesThis week on Cultivate, we kicked off our new series exploring the parables of Jesus—those simple yet profound stories that invite us to dig deeper into who God is and how He calls us to live. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone unpacked what makes a parable unique, contrasting these earthly stories with fables and illustrations, and discussing why Jesus chose this teaching style. We talked through how parables use everyday scenarios—like farmers, servants, and lost coins—to reveal spiritual truths, often leaving us pondering their full meaning long after we hear them.We also explored the im...
2025-12-1732 minMixed TakesBest Cover Song Ever TournamentWho doesn't love a good cover song! Tune in to hear Peter Vaughn and I discuss all things cover songs, including what makes them stand out and sharing stories behind famous ones. We also set out to find out the best cover song ever. And we're not messing around! We start with 32 and conduct a five-round tournament. Who won? Check it out!Bracket LinkBest Covers PlaylistBest Covers with Originals PlaylistWorst Covers PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook Group
2025-12-171h 43
The Grove ChurchFinding Peace in the End Times: A Guide for Curious ChristiansThis week on Cultivate, we dove into the different perspectives Christians have about the end times by exploring premillennial, amillennial, and postmillennial views. Charlie Loften explained how these major interpretations shape the way we read the Book of Revelation—especially the “thousand-year reign” described in its later chapters. Together with Abigail Boone, they discussed how various traditions have understood Christ’s return, the tribulation, and the hope Christians hold for the future.We looked at how each view draws from Revelation and other Scriptures, the importance (and limits) of taking prophecy literally, and the difference between essential beliefs...
2025-11-1249 minMixed TakesThe CureWendy Levinson, JB Rose, and I do a deep dive on the Cure, focusing on what their best twenty-two songs are. Which sounds like a lot, but there were a lot to choose from. Listen to find out which song fans voted #1!Cure PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook Page
2025-11-071h 16
The Grove ChurchUnderstanding the End Times: Revelation and Real-Life FaithThis week on Cultivate, we dove into the question, “Why should we study Revelation?” with Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone. Drawing from the final book of the Bible, we explored what makes Revelation unique as apocalyptic literature and why it remains both fascinating and challenging for modern readers. Charlie Loften walked us through the context—how the Apostle John, exiled and alone, received a vision from Jesus meant to give hope, not fear, to early Christians facing adversity. We discussed key themes like God’s ultimate control over history, the role of prophecy in the New Testament, and how Revelati...
2025-11-0542 min
The Grove ChurchWhy Baptism MattersThis week on Cultivate, we took a deep dive into the topic of baptism—why it matters, what it means, and why it’s been so controversial throughout church history. Charlie and Abigail explored the difference between infant baptism and believer’s baptism, tracing their origins in Scripture and church tradition. Drawing from passages in Acts and discussions on original sin, we learned how baptism has shifted from a ritual for repentant believers to a practice full of symbolism, community promises, and sometimes, fears about salvation. We also addressed common questions: Is baptism essential to our faith? Is it a comm...
2025-10-1523 minMixed TakesJohn versus Paul: Which Beatle is the Better Songwriter?David Thurmaier, Eric Virshbo, and Leon Virshbo join me to touch a Beatles' third rail question: Who was the best at making songs? We'll be looking at the whole song shebang: lyrics, music, and performance. At the end of the episode, we'll all be forced to pick a side and see who wins, Will it be Lennon, McCartney, or Lennon-McCartney? Listen to find out!Beatles Paul PlaylistBeatles John PlaylistPost-Beatles Paul PlaylistPost-Beatles John PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook Page
2025-10-051h 42
The Boone ShowUnited States Of (Shit People) AmericaThis country is going to hell in a handbasket and the Charlie Kirk incident just proves that.
2025-09-1314 min
2025-09-1011 min
The Grove ChurchGrowing with the Spirit: Fruit, Gifts, and Everyday Faith - Pneumatology Q&A | Pt. 2This week on Cultivate, we wrapped up our series exploring the Holy Spirit by tackling some of the big questions Christians often wrestle with: How do we truly know God’s Spirit is with us? What does it look like to grow in faith and live by the Spirit day to day? Abigail Boone and Pastor Charlie discussed how spiritual growth is a blend of God’s work and our own intentional actions. Drawing from Galatians 5, they unpacked the difference between the “fruit of the Spirit”—like love, joy, and peace—and spiritual gifts, clarifying how everyone in Christ is invited t...
2025-09-1030 minMixed Takes2023On this episode Mike Ferrigno, Craig Hesterlee, and me go on a journey through nine genres from 2023 music in the search to find the best five albums from that year. Come with us we navigate our reactions to such artists as 100 Gecs, Olivia Rodrigo, Zach Bryan, Lil Yachty, Peso Pluma and more!Episode PlaylistAlbums We Discuss PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook Page
2025-09-021h 29
The Grove ChurchHow Different Traditions See the Holy SpiritIn this week’s Cultivate episode, we continued our pneumatology series by exploring the differences between evangelical and charismatic traditions, particularly in how they understand the work of the Holy Spirit. Charlie and Abigail broke down how evangelicals tend to emphasize the authority of Scripture and the universal baptism of the Spirit, while charismatics often emphasize personal spiritual experiences and gifts such as tongues. We discussed how these perspectives shape worship, discipleship, and the way churches view maturity in Christ. Charlie also shared his “friendly evangelical” approach—holding firmly to Scripture while respecting the meaningful experiences of charismatic brothers and sist...
2025-08-2738 minMixed Takes2013Elliott Boone and Melissa Hovis join me to discuss the most important albums of 2013. We cover Frozen, AM, Yeezus, Pure Heroine, Modern Vampires of the City, Doris, Trouble Will Find Me and much much more. Which five albums will make our top five? Listen to find out!Episode PlaylistAlbums We Discuss PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook Page
2025-07-231h 26
The Grove ChurchSin, Shame, and the Security of SalvationIf you've ever wondered, "Is there a point where God gives up on me?"—this conversation is for you.In this week’s Cultivate episode, Charlie and Abigail return for part two of our Soteriology Q&A, digging into some of the most vulnerable and common concerns Christians carry about sin, guilt, and God’s grace. With honesty and clarity, they talk through questions like:How much sin is too much?Why do I still struggle with the same things?Can you lose your salvation if you keep messing up?Charlie draws from scripture and pastor...
2025-07-1636 min
The Grove ChurchWrestling with Salvation and Assurance | Q&A Pt.1If I still struggle with sin, does that mean I’m not really saved?In this special Q&A episode of the Cultivate Podcast, Abigail and Charlie tackle some of the most vulnerable and personal questions that come up when we talk about salvation. From fear of not being “really saved,” to guilt over repeated sin, to wondering why God doesn’t always feel close—this episode gets into the real-life tensions believers wrestle with.With honesty and compassion, Charlie offers practical theology rooted in scripture and hope, and Abigail reflects on her own journey of faith...
2025-07-0942 min
The Grove ChurchCan You Loose Your Salvation?Can you lose your salvation? It’s one of the most common—and honestly, most anxiety-inducing—questions for a lot of believers. In this episode of the Cultivate Podcast, Charlie and Abigail walk through the heart of that question with a blend of biblical depth and real-life clarity.They start with Romans 8, where Paul lays out a powerful chain of God’s work in our lives—from calling to glorification—showing that God finishes what He starts. From there, they unpack some of the trickier passages that seem to suggest we can lose salvation, like in Galatians and Hebrews...
2025-07-0245 min
The Grove ChurchUnderstanding Atonement | Understanding the Why of the GospelDive deeper into the doctrine of salvation with Charlie and Abigail on the Cultivate Podcast as they explore various theories of atonement. Moving beyond the commonly discussed penal substitutionary atonement, they introduce lesser-known perspectives such as Christ the Victor, Moral Influence, Ransom, Governmental, and Recapitulation theories. To make these complex theological concepts more accessible, Charlie and Abigail engage in a "fascinating exercise" using pop culture examples. They discuss the sacrificial deaths of characters from The Green Mile, A Tale of Two Cities, Iron Man, Black Widow, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Harry Potter, analyzing which atonement theories best align...
2025-06-2532 minMixed Takes2003Join John Weir, Jerry Shrall, and I as we listen to an incredible variety of music that made up the best albums of 2003. We'll go from 50 Cent to Sufjan Stevens and everything in between. Hope you enjoy!Episode PlaylistAlbums We Discuss PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook Page
2025-06-201h 29
The Grove ChurchThe Essential Role of Resurrection in SalvationJoin Charlie and Abigail on the Cultivate Podcast as they continue their deep dive into soteriology, the study of salvation. This week, they tackle a crucial question often overlooked in discussions about faith: What role does the resurrection of Jesus play in our salvation? While the cross is frequently emphasized, Charlie and Abigail explore how the resurrection validates Jesus's identity, confirms the effectiveness of His atonement, and serves as the source of new spiritual life and the guarantee of our future resurrection. They discuss how understanding the resurrection provides a deeper and more complete picture of the Gospel, moving...
2025-06-1833 min
The Grove ChurchHow Salvation Works: A Deeper Look at God's Rescue PlanWhat actually happens when someone is saved? In this episode of the Cultivate Podcast, Charlie and Abigail unpack what salvation looks like beyond the moment of belief. They walk through key theological concepts—justification, sanctification, and glorification—breaking them down in practical, approachable ways.You’ll hear discussion about how salvation is more than a ticket to heaven. It’s a lifelong process of being made whole in Christ. With honest questions and clear teaching, they explore how grace transforms us, how we grow through faith, and how God finishes what He starts in us. If you’ve ever wo...
2025-06-0437 minMixed Takes1993On this episode, Johnny Askew and David Oppenheim join me to discuss the most important albums of 1993. This year is a particularly deep one for various genres, so we have lots to cover. Give it a listen!Episode PlaylistAlbums We Discuss PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook Page
2025-06-041h 37
The Grove ChurchUnderstanding Salvation: Grace, Faith, and God's GiftIn this week’s Cultivate episode, Charlie and Abigail dive into one of the most important questions of the Christian life: What does it mean to be saved? This episode kicks off our new series on Soteriology—the study of salvation—by breaking down what Scripture says about grace, faith, and how salvation truly works.Together, they explore what we’re saved from, why we need saving, and how God’s grace—not our effort—opens the door to a restored relationship with Him. Charlie helps clarify common misconceptions about salvation being earned, while Abigail brings her thoughtful cur...
2025-05-2839 min
The Grove ChurchCompassion Over Spectacle: The Purpose of Jesus’ MiraclesThis week on Cultivate, we take a deeper look at Jesus' miracles—and why He did them in the first place. Charlie and Abigail unpack the purpose behind the healing, casting out of demons, and even the more mysterious moments like calming storms or turning water into wine. Spoiler: it wasn’t about showing off.Instead, we see that Jesus’ miracles were rooted in compassion, often done quietly, and always with purpose. Rather than demanding belief through power, Jesus invited people into relationship, into trust. The miracles weren’t the point—they were a glimpse of God’s heart and...
2025-05-2131 min
The Grove ChurchWhy Jesus Taught the Way He DidThis week on Cultivate, we explore what Jesus was really doing during His earthly ministry—and why His teachings sounded so different from Paul’s letters. Charlie and Abigail dive into the heart of Christology by asking: why didn’t Jesus just explain the gospel clearly? And what exactly was He preparing people for?They unpack how Jesus’ mission was rooted in helping deeply religious people unlearn a broken view of God and the law. While the Apostle Paul writes with post-resurrection clarity, Jesus taught in a culture still holding tightly to legalism and self-righteousness. From the Sermon o...
2025-05-1434 min
The Grove ChurchChristology | Q&A Pt.2In this week’s episode of the Cultivate Podcast, Charlie and Abigail dive deep into the question: What was Jesus up to before Bethlehem? Together, they explore Jesus’ eternal nature, His role in creation, and what it really means that He has always been fully God and fully human.From Genesis to the Gospels, this conversation brings clarity to the mystery of Christ’s divine identity—and why it matters. With thoughtful questions and grounded theology, Charlie and Abigail discuss the pre-incarnate appearances of Jesus in the Old Testament (Christophanies), His role as Creator, and how the hypostat...
2025-05-0737 min
The Grove ChurchChristology | Q&A Pt.1This week on Cultivate, we kick off a new Q&A series on Christology by asking a central question: Why is Jesus the perfect answer to our deepest needs? Charlie and Abigail dive into the heart of who Jesus is—fully God, fully human—and why both are essential for understanding salvation, grace, and the love of God.With their usual honesty and humor (plus a few detours into Chick-fil-A and Christmas trees), they explore why Jesus waited until age 30 to begin His ministry, why He didn’t always speak plainly, and how His authority was unmistakable to tho...
2025-04-3031 min
The Grove ChurchSin | Q&A Pt.2This week on Cultivate, we’re wrapping up our sin Q&A by exploring one of the most relatable tensions in the Christian life: how do we live with an awareness of our sin while embracing our identity in Christ? Charlie and Abigail dig into this question with honesty, grace, and even a little Arkansas dialect.Together they reflect on the “already, not yet” reality of being both redeemed and still in progress—no longer defined by sin, yet still navigating its presence. Through personal stories, theological clarity, and some deep reflection on how sin shapes our view of...
2025-04-2337 min
The Grove ChurchSin | Q&A Pt.1This week on Cultivate, we’re digging into one of the most foundational (and challenging) topics in the Christian faith—sin. Charlie and Abigail explore what it means to have a sin nature, how it affects the world around us, and why understanding our brokenness is key to grasping the beauty of the gospel.They wrestle with big questions like: Do we sin because we’re sinners, or are we sinners because we sin? What difference does it make if we believe in original sin? And how do we live with an honest view of ourselves without being...
2025-04-1633 minMixed Takes1983Listen to three children of the eighties (John Page, Stuart Levy, and me) as we discuss the albums that came out in 1983. We talk about the year in general, each choose a most-80s 1983 song, share some lesser-known albums, and then decide on the five albums we could agree on if all of us were stuck on a desert island. Episode PlaylistAlbums We Discuss PlaylistAlbums We Recommended ListMixed Takes Facebook Page
2025-04-131h 51
The Grove ChurchJesus: Divine and Human Without CompromiseThis week on Cultivate, we’re diving into the mystery of how Jesus is both fully God and fully human—and why that matters more than we often realize. Charlie and Abigail unpack the theological concept known as the hypostatic union, helping us understand how Jesus could carry two distinct natures in one person without conflict, confusion, or compromise.Through thoughtful questions, a little humor, and a lot of scripture, they explore how Jesus' divinity and humanity work together—and how that makes Him the only one capable of bridging the gap between us and God. From Philip...
2025-04-0935 min
The Grove ChurchWhy Jesus’ Humanity MattersThis week on Cultivate, we’re continuing our series on Christology by exploring the humanity of Jesus. Charlie and Abigail unpack why it’s not just important that Jesus was fully God—but also fully human. From His birth, growth, and work to His emotions, temptations, and physical needs, Jesus lived a real human life.They discuss how this shapes our understanding of His role as our mediator and why His humanity makes His sacrifice on the cross personally meaningful. Charlie also unpacks how the early church wrestled with this doctrine, and Abigail reflects on how Jesus’ experien...
2025-04-0230 minMixed Takes1973On this episode I'm joined by my cousin Mike and his daughter Caroline to discuss the many great and interesting album from 1973. Before you listen, you might want to check out the episode playlist, which has a song from the all of the albums we're considering plus a few more that came up. For the truly devoted, here are the full albums. And here is a list of those albums. I hope you enjoy!Mixed Takes Facebook Page
2025-03-271h 27
The Grove ChurchJesus Is God: Why It Matters and What It MeansThis week on Cultivate, we explore one of the most foundational truths of our faith—Jesus is fully God. Charlie and Abigail kick off a new series on Christology by digging into how scripture clearly affirms Jesus’ divine nature, from John 1 to Colossians 1, and why that truth matters deeply for our understanding of salvation.They discuss moments when Jesus claimed authority that only belongs to God—like forgiving sins or identifying Himself as “I Am”—and reflect on how those claims ultimately led to His crucifixion. Through a mix of thoughtful insight and real questions, this episode makes a comp...
2025-03-2633 min
The Grove ChurchThe Nature and Consequences of Sin: A Deep DiveIn this week's Cultivate episode, we dive into the weighty reality of sin and its far-reaching consequences. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone unpack how sin not only distances us from God but also leaves a lasting impact on our hearts, minds, and world.They explore the spiritual separation sin causes, the brokenness it fosters within us, and how it damages our relationships and society as a whole. From personal struggles to the larger ripple effects of evil in creation, this conversation highlights the depths of sin’s influence—but also points toward the hope found in Christ.
2025-03-1936 min
The Grove ChurchAre We Born Sinners? Understanding Sin Nature and Its ImpactIn this week's Cultivate episode, we dive deeper into the nature of sin—are we sinners by choice, by inheritance, or by something even bigger? Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone tackle this foundational question, exploring what it means to have a sin nature and how scripture explains our brokenness.Drawing from Romans, Ephesians, and the story of Adam, they unpack the concepts of inherited and imputed sin—examining whether sin is something we’re born into or something we actively choose. They also wrestle with what it means to be "deserving of wrath" and how this reality ultima...
2025-03-1241 min
The Grove ChurchThe Glory of God and Human Sinfulness: A Deep Dive into HamartiologyIn this week's Cultivate episode, we begin a deep dive into the nature of sin—what it is, how it’s defined in scripture, and why it matters. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone explore sin beyond just a list of “do’s and don’ts,” breaking down biblical definitions and theological insights to help us understand its deeper implications.From the concept of missing the mark to the idea of lawlessness and falling short of God’s glory, this conversation unpacks how sin impacts our relationship with God and others. Charlie and Abigail discuss how sin isn’t just about ind...
2025-03-0534 min
The Grove ChurchAnthropology Q&A | Pt. 2This week on Cultivate, we dive into the impact of the creation story on our understanding of faith, identity, and purpose. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone continue their systematic theology series, exploring how God’s intentional creation shapes the way we see ourselves and the world around us.Charlie unpacks foundational questions like: How did we get here? Why are we here?—emphasizing that the Bible’s creation account isn’t just about origins but about recognizing our identity as people made in God’s image. Abigail reflects on how this truth combats cultural struggles with self-worth, reminding...
2025-02-2633 minMixed Takes1963For my first 1960s episode, Eric and Leon join me as we discuss the best albums of 1963. There was a lot more variety here then we expected. Besides early albums by some real heavy hitters (Beatles, Beach Boys, Dylan...), this year includes some great jazz, soul, surfer music, folk, country, and... Christmas music? Tune in to find out which albums make our top 5!Episode PlaylistAlbums We Discuss PlaylistMixed Takes Facebook Page
2025-02-241h 27
The Grove ChurchAnthropology Q&A | Pt. 1Ready to peel back the layers of creation and our place within it? This episode of the Cultivate Podcast invites you to join hosts Charlie Lofton and Abigail Boone as they turn the pages of Genesis 1-3, dissecting its timeless truths with a refreshing perspective.Dive deep with Charlie and Abigail as they discuss the Genesis narrative—far more than an ancient text, it's our foundation for understanding who God is and who we are in Him. Discover how these early chapters aren't just about the "how" of creation but the profound "why" behind our existence. Charlie br...
2025-02-1929 min
The Grove ChurchAngels and Demons | Q&A Pt.2How should Christians navigate the reality of spiritual warfare without fear? In this episode of the Cultivate Podcast, lead pastor Charlie Loften and producer Abigail Boone continue their Q&A on angels, Satan, and demons. They explore how to balance awareness of the spiritual realm with confidence in God’s protection and victory.Charlie and Abigail address deep questions about the role of evil in the world, why God allows Satan to roam, and how cultural differences shape perceptions of spiritual warfare. Through practical metaphors and theological insight, they emphasize the importance of living with faith, not fe...
2025-02-1235 min
The Grove ChurchAngels and Demons | Q&A Pt.1What do angels actually do, and why do they seem so terrifying in the Bible? In this episode of the Cultivate Podcast, Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone answer listener questions about angels—their roles, appearances, and common misconceptions.Charlie and Abigail explore the biblical descriptions of angels as messengers, protectors, and warriors, reflecting the overwhelming glory of God. They discuss why people often react with fear when encountering angels in scripture and challenge the popular cultural belief that humans become angels after death. Abigail shares her newfound enthusiasm for understanding the angelic realm, leading to a deeper co...
2025-02-0536 min
The Grove ChurchHumanity’s Fall: What went wrong in EdenWhat happened when humanity stepped out of alignment with God’s design? In this episode of the Cultivate Podcast, Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone explore the creation and fall of humanity as described in Genesis 2 and 3. Together, they examine God’s original intent for Adam and Eve, the serpent’s deception, and the profound consequences of sin entering the world.The discussion highlights key moments from the biblical narrative, such as the unique role of humans being made in God’s image, the significance of the forbidden tree, and the emergence of shame and separation from God after th...
2025-01-2939 min
The Grove ChurchImage of God: Understanding Human Uniqueness in CreationWhat does it mean to be created in the image of God? In this episode of the Cultivate Podcast, Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone dive into the theological concept of the Imago Dei, exploring what makes humans distinct in all of creation. Drawing from Genesis 1, they discuss how being made in God’s image shapes our purpose, creativity, and ability to relate to Him in a unique way.Charlie and Abigail reflect on the God-given responsibility humans have to care for creation and live as reflections of His character. They unpack the attributes that set humanity apart—such...
2025-01-2231 min
The Grove ChurchThe Why Behind Creation: Unpacking God's Purpose and IntentionalityWhat does it mean to be human? In this week’s episode of the Cultivate Podcast, hosts Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone dive into Genesis 1 to uncover God’s intentionality in creation and what it reveals about our purpose. They explore the profound difference between asking “how” and “why” we were created, challenging secular perspectives on evolution with the deeper truths of scripture.Charlie highlights the poetic beauty of Genesis, showing how God’s creation was not an accident but a purposeful act filled with intentionality, diversity, and goodness. Abigail reflects on the unique place humans hold as image-beare...
2025-01-1541 minMixed TakesSeason 2 Mixtape RankingsThis season of Mixed Takes covered 1972, 1982, 1992, 2002, 2012, and 2022. Every guest was invited to make a mixtape based on those years. Which was all nice and good, but which was the best? This was determined by some overly complicated, yet shockingly perfect rules and regulations. On this episode Pete, Melissa, and I discuss mixtapes in general, then share the overall mixtape power rankings in reverse order. You will be on the edge of your seat!Below are the mixtapes. Listen beforehand or revisit them after!AustinAutumnCarlyCasperElliottCharli...
2024-12-231h 08
The Grove ChurchAngels, Demons, and Faith: How to Stand Strong in Spiritual BattlesCharlie and Abigail conclude their exploration of angelology and spiritual warfare, diving into the biblical realities of angels, demons, and Satan’s influence in the world. They address common misconceptions, such as the meaning behind the name “Lucifer,” and emphasize the need to avoid two extremes: dismissing spiritual evil entirely or being overwhelmed by it.Through passages like Ephesians 6, they unpack the “armor of God,” focusing on tools like truth, righteousness, and faith that equip us to stand firm against spiritual attacks. This episode highlights the balance between awareness of spiritual forces and confidence in Christ’s victory, rem...
2024-12-1826 min
The Grove ChurchAngels and Demons: A Deep Dive Into Spiritual RealitiesCharlie and Abigail take a deep dive into the unseen realities of angels, demons, and spiritual warfare. They explore the biblical origins of Satan and his rebellion, the roles and hierarchy of angels and demons, and how these spiritual forces influence the world today. With passages from scripture, they clarify distinctions between possession and oppression, highlighting how believers are protected by the Holy Spirit from possession but still face external spiritual challenges.We are invited to reflect on the ongoing spiritual battle and how faith, salvation, and righteousness equip us to stand firm. Drawing on key texts...
2024-12-1134 min
The Grove ChurchAngelology: Exploring Angels, Their Purpose, and Biblical DepictionsCharlie and Abigail explore the fascinating study of angels, diving into what the Bible teaches about their nature, roles, and purpose. They unpack key truths, like the distinction between angels and the Holy Spirit, and debunk common misconceptions, such as the belief that humans become angels after death. From their role as God’s messengers to protectors and worshipers, the conversation highlights how angels operate within God’s creation and plan.We reflect on the awe-inspiring and sometimes terrifying descriptions of angels in scripture, their spiritual nature, and their unique relationship with humanity. This episode encourages us to t...
2024-12-0441 min
The Grove ChurchSystematic Theology: Q&A pt.2Charlie and Abigail continue their Q&A series, diving into key questions about early Christianity and the formation of the biblical canon. They explore how early believers relied on the Old Testament, oral traditions, and the circulation of letters like Paul’s to understand Jesus’ teachings before the New Testament was compiled. The conversation delves into the process of canonization, how biblical authority was established, and what it means to trust the Bible as God’s inspired word.We reflect on the Bible’s role as a dynamic narrative that reveals God’s will and equips us for faithf...
2024-11-2743 min