Shows
The Ordinary Christian PodcastEpisode 126: The Freshman 15 With Travis AgnewTravis Agnew is the pastor of Rocky Creek Baptist Church in Greenville, SC and is the author of several books. On this episode of the podcast, Travis talks about his book, The Freshman 15: How to put the weight on in all the right places. We discuss the strategies college freshmen can use to direct their devotion to the things of the Lord rather than the things of the world. We talk about the first 14 days of college, the necessity of daily time in the Bible, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right kinds of people....2025-07-0348 min
PowerWomen: Conversations with Powerful Women about moving the Pendulum!Episode 95: Pelvic Power: Real Talk on Bladders, Bodies & Better Health with Beth Anne TravisClaire Brown and Gayatri Agnew are back with a deeply empowering and wildly entertaining episode featuring Beth Anne Travis, PT, DPT, PRPC, PRFS of Arkansas Pelvic Health. From bladder leaks and painful sex to pelvic floor myths, lube do’s and don’ts, and how jaw tension might be connected to your pelvic pain, nothing is off-limits. Tune in for real talk, laughter, and insights that will have you rethinking your whole approach to pelvic health. ARKANSAS PELVIC HEALTH: https://www.arkansaspelvichealth.com/ POWERWOMEN LINKS: 2025-04-2239 min
The 2nd Mile PodcastAvoiding Political ExtremesNo matter how hard we try, we cannot escape from the increasing political tension. While we are one month from the presidential election, we are in the middle of numerous controversies. As a disciple of Jesus, don’t get caught into traps laid out for us. It’s time to go the second mile in avoiding political extremes.2020-10-0712 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastBe Slow to SpeakPeople have always maintained different opinions on world issues, but, due to the rise of social media, everyone has an opportunity to broadcast and amplify their voices more than ever before. How can we endure the next few weeks in a tense election season? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in learning to be slow when speaking.2020-09-3012 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastBring a Friend AlongAs disciples of Jesus, we have the good news that this world needs to hear, but are we sharing it? Instead of waiting for people to come to you in need, have you ever considered inviting them to walk with you as you follow Jesus? I promise that it’s not as difficult as you think it is. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in bringing friends along.2020-09-2312 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastSeek the City’s WelfareAs our world continues to polarize its citizens into different camps, how should Christians respond? Instead of retreating from this world, we need to be blessing this world. Your city should be a blessed place because of your church’s involvement in it. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in seeking the city’s welfare.2020-09-1612 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastStrive for Personal HolinessWhen times are difficult, it makes it easier for us to justify sin. As the pressures of 2020 rise, do you find it easy to excuse yourself for wayward behavior? Now is not the time to give in to sin, but to push towards obedience.2020-09-0912 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastCommit to Intentional CheckupsFor anyone who has committed to a local church but never felt connected, I want to help you. The reason some never experience deep relationships is because the interaction is never pursued outside the weekly gathering. You can’t connect through 1 hour a week. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in committing to intentional checkups.2020-09-0212 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastPrioritize Your Weekly GroupWhen social distancing hit, most churches went to groups online. While we were all thankful for apps like Zoom, we also feel the fatigue from it all. As we navigate the upcoming months, you need to commit to yours and others’ spiritual growth. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in prioritizing your weekly group.2020-08-2612 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastThe New Church NormalNow that we have made it through the first half of 2020, people are constantly asking - when will we get back to normal? I hate to break it to you, but I don’t think we are going to return to it, but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing for your life, family, or church. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in the new church normal.2020-08-1912 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastControlling ComparisonThe 10th commandment warns against coveting. While this sin may be last on the list, it is one of the most prevalent in our hearts. In fact, our casual acceptance of it reveals that we don’t take it that seriously. Deep down, this is as serious of a sin as they come. It’s time to go the 2nd mile on controlling comparison.2020-08-1212 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHighlighting HonestyThe 9th commandment warns against lying. You can tell our culture doesn’t see lying as that big of a sin when we always categorize our deceit as just “a little white lie.” Bearing false witness speaks clearly about our character and teaches others that we are untrustworthy. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in highlighting honesty.2020-08-0512 min
Lake Murray BC PodcastEpisode 29 | Travis AgnewDr. Travis Agnew is the pastor of Rocky Creek Baptist Church in Greenville, SC. In this episode, David and Travis talk about his book 'Distinctive Discipleship: Designing Specific Plans for Christian Maturity' and about how there is no one-size fits all approach to making disciples of Jesus. To support this podcast and all of the other ministries of Lake Murray Baptist Church, click here: http://lakemurraybc.org/give2020-07-3029 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastRedefining RobberyThe 8th commandment warns against stealing. Most of us think of theft as something that only criminals and children struggle doing. We almost feel impervious to such temptation. But are we? How frequently do we justify our subtle possession of things that do not belong to us? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in redefining robbery.2020-07-2912 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastAvoiding AdulteryThe 7th commandment warns against adultery. The marital union is so unique, so precious, that nothing or no one should ever interfere. A marriage cannot work with three people in it. Whether you have been guilty, considered it, or believe yourself to be immune to the temptation, it’s time to go the 2nd mile in avoiding adultery.2020-07-2212 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastAddressing AngerThe 6th commandment warns against murder. While we all agree about the serious nature of this sin, not many see it as a real temptation. When Jesus came, he explained that the real danger was in the heart before it was in the hands. You might be more guilty than you realize. It’s time go the 2nd mile in addressing anger.2020-07-1512 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastPrizing ParentsThe 5th commandment is to honor your father and mother. We often see this commandment for those 18 and under, but are adults supposed to obey this as well? Just realize that God gave this word first to an 80-year-old man who he expected to obey it. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in prizing parents.2020-07-0812 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastReclaiming RhythmsThe 4th of the commandments is about keeping the Sabbath day holy. In most circles, that just meant you better go to a church rather than the ball game when Sunday rolled around. While that is an accurate way to apply it, it is so much more than that. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in reclaiming rhythms.2020-07-0112 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastFading FlippancyThe 3rd of the commandments is about not taking God’s name in vain. When I was a kid, it just meant by grandmother would correct me if I ever used the word, “gosh.” While that might be a concern, it is really about using God’s name in any empty way. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in fading flippancy.2020-06-2412 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastWaiving WorshipThe 2nd of the commandments is forbidding idolatry. Now, here is a commandment that doesn’t condemn you, right? Wrong. This command is more than just ignoring the worship of statues. In fact, we are guilty of it more than we realize. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in waiving worship.2020-06-1712 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastRemoving RivalsThe 1st of the 10 commandments is all about having no other gods. It seems pretty simple in theory, but we are not so apt to keeping it. If you have reduced this rule to associating with only one religion, it is much more than that. We need to evaluate. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in removing rivals.2020-06-1012 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastChampioning CommandmentsThe 10 Commandments. Should Christians see them as archaic and useless, fulfilled and pointless, or timely and necessary? The 10 rules that provided direction for the nation of Israel still maintain a worldwide impact. How should we respond? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in championing commandments.2020-06-0312 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastDon’t Waste This SummerAs our world tries to discover the rhythms of the new normal, whatever that is, you have a summer ahead of you. Regardless of your stage in life, you will probably have more margin than you typically have. What do you want to do with it? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in making the most of your summer.2020-05-2712 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow You Can Help the Orphan CrisisThere are 153 million orphans in the world. Every single day, another 5,700 more children become orphans. Those numbers are staggering, and you may feel defeated because you can’t help all of them. But what if you could help one? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in helping the orphan crisis.2020-05-2012 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastThe Two Options When Crisis HitsWhen the unexpected happens, we all have a choice to make. Two options lie before us. We will each choose to draw closer to God or further away from him. In your discouragements, distresses, and disappointments, which way are you headed? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in drawing close to Jesus.2020-05-1312 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastRespecting Closed DoorsThe current state of the world has changed all of our plans. No graduation. No trip. Change in job. Expectations unmet. Disappointments abound. You wonder why a door that was supposed to be open has now been slammed shut. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in respecting closed doors.2020-05-0612 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastReasonable Bible Study GoalsYour schedule has probably simplified in recent weeks. In fact, you probably have more margin now than ever to be able to read the Bible, but have you taken advantage of it? If you are not careful, you can waste this present opportunity and let the time slip away. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in developing a reasonable Bible study goal.2020-04-2912 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHelpful Money MilestonesAs you develop your budget and try to live financially responsible, it can be overwhelming at all the areas you need to address. How do you know what should be your priority? How do you know what you should tackle next? Maybe you need some practical guidance to start. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in developing money milestones.2020-04-2212 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow to Develop a BudgetYou know that budgeting is important, so what is keeping you from working on one? Maybe you don’t want to face reality, but if you don’t address your financial situation, reality will interrupt you at the most inconvenient time. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in developing a budget.2020-04-1512 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastWhy Developing a Budget Is a Spiritual IssueA financial crisis has a way of waking us up to reality. Whether it is a national recession on the horizon or a personal consequence based on a decision, we each know how money can affect us in numerous ways. The way we handle our money says a lot about us. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in financial budgeting.2020-04-0812 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastBeing Faithfully Productive from a Home OfficeAs we each grasp with learning how to function during an international pandemic, we have to innovate among restrictions. We all have stuff we still have to do, and we want to be used in a purposeful way, but everything is different now. If you want to faithfully productive, we must go the 2nd mile while working at home.2020-04-0112 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow to Be a Great Scattered Church MemberLast Sunday, people all over the world had to rethink church gatherings due to the COVID-19. Whether you watched online, had a drive-in at your church parking lot, or some other option, worship felt a little bit different. As we adapt to our circumstances, it’s time to go the 2nd mile in being the scattered church.2020-03-2512 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastQuarantined DiscipleshipLife as we know it as changed just a wee bit. With the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic, our lives are being changed. If you aren’t quarantined, you are at least limited. So, what should you do when your schedule has changed and the world is in fear? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in quarantined discipleship.2020-03-1912 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastYou Can’t Progress Until You ProcessIf you are like me, you often feel overwhelmed. The standard answer to someone asking, “How are you doing?” Is apparently supposed to be “busy.” We all say we are busy, but are we effective? Are you satisfied with the progress you are making in life? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in evaluating your progress.2020-03-1112 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastFinding God’s Will Among Good OptionsSometimes, finding God’s will is easy. The righteous decision is always preferred over the sinful leaning. God never wants us to go against His design. But what about discerning among good options? How do you know what to do when either option seems OK? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in finding God’s will.2020-03-0412 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastThe Answer for AnxietyEach of us struggles with some level of anxiety. Certain triggers seem to exasperate it at times, and yet many of us don’t know what to do when the onslaught begins. The issue is not if you will be anxious but what to do when you become anxious. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in answering anxiety.2020-02-2612 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastWalking with Jesus and Your SpouseFollowing behind Jesus is a good path. Walking beside your spouse is a special journey as well. What happens if those two directions are opposing from each other? It is possible to follow Jesus and walk beside your spouse. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in prioritizing a spiritually-enriching marriage.2020-02-1912 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastThe Marriage Triumphant Through TrialsIf each of us is promised to encounter trials in this life, that guarantees that those who are married will experience double the amount. Life will throw certain challenges at each of you, but they don’t have to come in between you. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in having a marriage triumphant through trials.2020-02-1212 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastMaking a List for Your Future SpouseIf you are single, maybe you think about getting married one day. As friends progress through their wedding days, the pressure can mount for you to find someone. While eagerness for marriage is a good trait, you must be careful not to rush into something that’s not ideal. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in your dating preparation.2020-02-0512 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastSetting Up a Bible Reading Plan for FailureAs you seek to become a better student of the Word, you quickly realize that this process takes work. It doesn’t come naturally, and the Bible is a very big book full of complex details. Good intentions can easily become sidelined. God wouldn’t set you up to fail. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in protecting your Bible reading plan.2020-01-2912 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastSetting Up a Bible Reading Plan for SuccessBible reading is one of those tricky habits for a disciple of Jesus Christ. We all know we should be doing it. We assume that everyone else is more consistent than we are, but yet we start numerous plans only to stop along the way. You are not alone. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in finishing a Bible reading plan.2020-01-2312 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastThe Life Worth RememberingProverbs 22:1 reads that “a good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.” The reality is that each of us will be remembered for something, but will you be remembered for something good? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in your life’s ambition.2020-01-1512 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastWhy Mediocre Christianity Is an OxymoronPlenty of people associate with Jesus, but very few keep their steps at a pace where they can truly follow him. He is not someone that you want to follow halfway with mediocre attempts. If you’ve been following Jesus at a distance, it’s time to go the 2nd mile in your spiritual journey.2020-01-0814 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastPutting Christ Back in ChristmasThe lights are hung, the presents are wrapped, the food is prepared, and the sweaters are laid out. What could be missing? Jesus. Jesus might be missing. If you are worried of missing Christ this Christmas, it is time to go the 2nd mile in your Christmas celebration.2019-12-1914 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastEvangelism Is Necessary But Not UltimateThe Great Commission calls us to make disciples – not converts.
As he ascended into the skies, Jesus clarified our purpose of discipleship when he delivered the Great Commission. The job is incomplete when someone comes to faith in Christ. Discipleship – and not conversion – is the goal.
Evangelism is necessary, but it is not ultimate.2019-12-1114 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastYou Can Make a DiscipleMost Christians can easily communicate the importance of making disciples, but few can articulate how they are personally engaging in the process. Proclaiming the need for discipleship in theory is not the same as prioritizing its implementation in life. Most churches and ministries are very busy with numerous activities, yet many regularly lament the lack of tangible success despite extensive efforts.2019-12-0513 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastTips for Black FridayIt’s the most wonderful time of the year, but it can also be the most frantic. As you prepare for Christmas, you may feel many expectations that can cause you to make some poor financial decisions. You don’t have to go broke during the holidays. It’s time to go the 2nd mile on Black Friday.2019-11-2714 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow to Be a Kingdom-Minded EmployeeWhile we are much more than what we do, a significant portion of our lives will be spent in the 9-5 realm. That’s why how we approach work is so vital to our overall outlook in life. Have you ever considered your work as it relates to your walk? It’s time to go the 2nd mile as a kingdom-minded employee.2019-11-1314 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow to Work on a Marriage All By YourselfYou know your marriage needs work, and you accept that your spouse isn’t 100% completely to blame for the condition of your marriage. You are ready and committed to do the work, but what if your spouse isn’t putting forth the same type of effort? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in working on your marriage all by yourself.2019-11-0614 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow to Overcome TemptationYou’ve already been tempted to sin today numerous times. While everyone is tempted, particular people are more prone to certain temptations than others. While you can’t avoid being tempted, you can fight against its pull. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in overcoming temptation.2019-10-3114 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastAffirm Your ChildrenIt almost seems necessary for young parents to speak as if their children are a hindrance. As parents bemoan their roles as pure drudgery, the culture and the kids get the message: children are unwanted. If you read Scripture, you realize that children aren’t a burden - they are a blessing. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in affirming your children.2019-10-2314 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastMore Than Just Quoting the Lord's PrayerIf you grew up in church, you probably memorized the Lord’s prayer from Matthew 6. In many services, the entire congregation recites it out loud as a part of the worship. While this is a great implementation, did Jesus mean for us simply to quote it? It’s time to go the 2nd mile with the Lord’s prayer.2019-10-1614 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastCounting the Cost of DiscipleshipEach of us must count the cost to follow Jesus. We need more than motivation to begin; we need preparation to endure. If not careful, we will start with high aspirations yet fail to follow through due to a lack of planning.2019-10-0914 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastOwning Your DependenceFor all the progress you have made in your life, have you ever realized how desperately dependent on God you still are? Our cultural mantra wants to espouse independence as if we have it all together, but the longer we walk, the more it seems that we trip up. Do you feel like you don’t have it together? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in your dependence on God.2019-10-0214 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastStarting Your Next DisciplineHave you considered the spiritual giants in your life and why they are that way? They just seem to be in a different category than everyone else. We often categorize them as those who must be more spiritual than the rest of us, but what if that’s not it? What if it is because they are more disciplined than the rest of us? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in spiritual disciplines.2019-09-2514 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastAdmitting Your Needed DevelopmentYou’ve made some adjustments. You’ve seen some improvement, but you also admit that you’re not there yet. Each of us have many areas in our lives that could benefit from some further growth. In discipleship, you don’t have to be there yet, but you should be getting there. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in admitting your needed development.2019-09-1814 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastReinforcing the Most Critical DoctrineAre you confident in the fundamentals of your faith? Maybe the better question is, do you believe what you believe? As a follower of Jesus, you have a set of doctrinal beliefs that come along with the territory, but are they settled in your mind? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in reinforcing the most critical doctrine.2019-09-1114 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastAddressing Your Most Consistent DisobedienceThere is a sin or a few sins that easily entangle you. While we all can struggle with every possible sin imaginable, there are certain sins with which we regularly drift. In order for you to make progress in your discipleship, you need to narrow down the list to the sin which is critical for you to address right now.2019-09-0413 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastRediscovering Delight in Our DiscipleshipYou don’t have to follow Jesus; you get to follow Jesus. The moment that you can see your walk as an opportunity rather than an obligation is the moment when your growth will progress exponentially. If you have felt like you are following Jesus out of duty, it’s time to go the 2nd mile in rediscovering delight in our discipleship.2019-08-2813 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastDeveloping a Discipleship PlanWe talk about discipleship in churches a lot, but are we really doing it? Jesus’s words are straightforward - make disciples of all nations. Before we attempt to make a bunch of disciples, maybe we just need to learn how to make one. It’s time to go the second mile in developing a discipleship plan.2019-08-2114 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastFinding God’s WillAt some point in our lives, we have all desired to know God’s will in some area. We almost speak of finding God’s will as if it is something he is trying to hide from us. God wants you to do his will even more than you want to do his will. It’s time to go the second mile in finding God’s will.2019-08-1411 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastPrioritizing the Family AltarFor the last few decades, we have expected church programs to do what God has called parents to do. We have effectively dropped our children off at church and expected them to be Jesus-loving, Bible-obeying, manner-displaying kids by the time we pick them up. If we want children like that, we will need to be parents who prioritize family discipleship and not just rely on church programs. It’s time to go the second mile in prioritizing the family altar.2019-08-0711 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastThe Danger of a Detached Worship TeamWhere our worship wars used to be over what style of music a church should use, I believe the current worship war is the manner in which a worship team leads. While songs can still be divisive, subtle yet serious danger transpires when a worship team employs worldly practices instead of biblical principles. It’s time to go the second mile with the ministry of your worship team.
Things to Remember
There is no room for celebrities in our churches.
Ministering to people off the stage allows me to be a more effective minister when I am...2019-07-3113 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow Pornography Can Ruin Your Current (or Future) MarriageTo honor your marriage, you must keep the marriage bed pure from anyone else invading it. That includes real experiences and virtual experiences. Sex isn’t the problem. Sexual desires are not the issue. The dilemma is when we attempt to meet a God-given desire in an ungodly way. You are supposed to have your sexual needs met with your spouse and pornography is robbing you both.2019-07-2410 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastYou Need Better FriendsOftentimes in ministry, I want to discover what is the secret ingredient in the life that continues to grow in Christ and what is lacking in those who experience downfall. Where I used to think it was diligence or dedication, I have learned that many people continue to grow simply because they surround themselves with solid friends who want to grow as well. It’s time to go the 2nd mile in our friendships.
The best way to follow God is walking beside others who are going in the same direction.
Those who are closest to me must be...2019-07-1710 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow to Have an Accountability PartnerIt is important to highlight the need for a personal relationship with Jesus. But somewhere along the way, we have made our faith so private that we neglect the benefit of walking alongside others. Have you ever wanted to continue your growth but find yourself falling time and time again? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in having an accountability partner.2019-07-1010 min
Travis Agnew SermonsRestored StrategyFuge Camp at Liberty University - Closing Celebration
Matthew 28:16-20
As Jesus sent His original followers out with the task to make more disciples, He sends us out the same way today. Our restored strategy must involve a lifelong pursuit of discipleship.2019-07-0325 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow to Maintain Camp CommitmentsIt happens at every summer church camp. It’s the final night of worship, and almost every person in attendance is ready to make a decision. If the person is confident in salvation, he or she might repent of sins or make a rededication of sorts.
Since last year’s camp got them all excited about living for Jesus, they thought it would be different. Unfortunately, many go back to previous ways of life once they get home. At camp this year though, it is promised it is going to be different.
Whether it is a sum...2019-07-0322 minTravis Agnew SermonsGod's Grand Plan to RestoreFuge Camp at Liberty University - Day 4 Worship
Luke 24:13-35
The sacrifice of Jesus was never a Plan B to God’s redemptive work. The entire message of the Bible and the complete history of the world is working towards God’s grand conclusion of restoration.2019-07-0344 minTravis Agnew SermonsWhy Was This Wasted?Fuge Camp at Liberty University - Day 4 Morning Celebration
Mark 14:1:1-11
Jesus is restoring His Creation, and He has invited us to be a part. Any offering given for Jesus should ever be counted as wasteful.2019-07-0214 minTravis Agnew SermonsThe Turn That Will Decide Your LifeFuge Camp at Liberty University - Day 3 Worship
John 3:1-18
In our efforts to find restoration, there are many possible paths we could travel. While many voices will entice you to follow, only turning to Jesus will give you the life you were intended to live.2019-07-0247 minTravis Agnew SermonsWho Do You Think Jesus Is?Fuge Camp at Liberty University - Day 3 Morning Celebration
Matthew 16:13-23
While everyone has an opinion of Jesus, we need God’s truth more than we need our opinions. Instead of trying to edit the God of the Bible, we must learn to embrace the God of the Bible.2019-07-0121 minTravis Agnew SermonsThe Most Broken Part of Your LifeFuge Camp at Liberty University - Day 2 Worship
Mark 2:1-12
Living in light of the letdowns of this world, we desperately want Jesus to fix the broken parts of our lives. While we focus on specific areas we want Jesus to address, He is fully aware of the source of our greatest brokenness.2019-07-0146 minTravis Agnew SermonsWhy Do You Call Me Lord?Fuge Camp at Liberty University - Day 2 Morning Celebration
Luke 6:46-49
Referring to Jesus as Lord is not the same as obeying Him as Lord. Our lives crumble when we fail to apply the truth from His Word.2019-06-3023 minTravis Agnew SermonsGod's Design for Your LifeFuge Camp at Liberty University - Day 1 Worship
Matthew 22:15-22
Cultural forces and religious traditions war for our allegiance. Above all of our manmade expectations, God designed each of us to reflect something very specific.2019-06-3038 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastEstablish Fight Rules for Your MarriageI love sitting down with couples to lead pre-marital counseling. As we discuss all the opportunities and complexities that marriage brings, I will often ask, “So, tell me how you two handle conflict?”
In some instances, they will look at each other in such a way that makes me think they were arguing on the drive over to meet me. In other scenarios, the couple will look at me and explain, “We really don’t fight with each other.” That statement tells me two things: 1) they don’t know each other that well yet, and 2) they are going to be u...2019-06-2622 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastBiblical Context Determines Biblical ContentImagine a time in which you were surrounded by danger. Forces were against you that literally threatened your very life. Someone comes up to you at the scariest moment and seeks to encourage you. Instead of providing personal counsel, this individual actually quotes a Bible verse to you. Recited from a beloved psalm, this verse reminds you that God will watch over you.
Does that sound comforting to you? It should until you realize who this mysterious Bible-quoter is. The psalm-toting individual is none other than the devil himself. This scenario isn’t imagination but history. Jesus wa...2019-06-1922 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow to Have a Quiet TimeAs a young Christian, people always told me about the importance of having a quiet time without anyone ever showing me how to have one. I tend to be a rather loud person anyway, so setting apart time to quiet myself seemed odd in the first place. What exactly am I supposed to do during that quiet time?
All the godly people that I esteemed all talked about what God taught them during that time. I would often feel guilty for not being consistent in my own practice. Maybe you feel the same way. Have you always...2019-06-1222 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastDevelop a Reading PlanWe all know reading is supposed to help us, but many of us also feel as if we could be more dedicated readers. The reason many of us struggle is that we don't have a reading plan that has specific goals. If you ever wanted to become a more avid reader, it's time to go the second mile with our books.
How to Discipline Yourself to Love Reading
Commit to reading from 2 books every day.
Create a deadline for book completion.
Diversify the types of books you read.
Create a reading order.
Summarize and archive the...2019-06-0522 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastRejecting the Wiki GodOur culture worships the Wiki God. We want ever so desperately to serve a deity whom we have the freedom and capability to edit. Many people are attempting to revise the Christian faith by cutting out what they don’t like, copying favorable ideas from other worldviews, and pasting them into some hopeless attempt at a hybrid faith. How do we reject our culture's desire to serve the Wiki God?2019-05-2921 minThe 2nd Mile Podcast6 Helpful Tips for Small GroupsWe all want change, but few of us were willing to do the work with one another to see that change happen. Discipleship happens within the context of intentional relationships. If you have gotten tired of spiritual stagnation, it’s time to go the 2nd mile with your small group.
6 Helpful Tips
Biblical Authority
Leadership Maturity
Safe Authenticity
Careful Accountability
Intentional Availability
Eager Reproducibility
2019-05-2223 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastYou Really Are a TheologianMaybe you don’t consider yourself a theologian, but I would beg to differ. You have beliefs about God and you share them with others even if by default. You really are a theologian, the question is: are you a good one? It’s time to go the 2nd mile in our theology.
This episode explains the content of my new book, Wiki God, being released within a few days. I also read some sample content from it with the hope of inspiring you to develop your own theology from the Bible.2019-05-1523 minThe 2nd Mile Podcast10 Tips for Great SundaysIf you have ever desired to have meaningful Sunday worship experiences with your church, the process starts on Saturday. In fact, if you don't prepare well, your frantic pace on Sunday can rob you of meaningful interactions with God and with God's people.
In this episode of the 2nd mile podcast, I share 10 tips to ensure you have a great Sunday.
Prepare your stuff on Saturday afternoon.
Prepare your hearts on Saturday night.
Beware of Saturday night’s content.
Set an adequate alarm.
Drive past the best parking.
Get there 15 minutes early.
Look out for new fa...2019-05-0823 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastGamechanging Tip for Bible ReadingBiblical illiteracy is on the rise. Why are so many people without a thorough understanding of scriptural teaching? One of the main reasons is we are reading it in a different way from how it was written.
WARNINGS
Don't attempt a marathon before you have completed a lap.
Don't get stagnate with your time if you don't have an adequate amount of time.
Don't read the Bible like a yearbook.
Don't read the Bible like a fortune cookie.
ENCOURAGEMENTS
The best way to read the Bible is book by book.
Each book of the...2019-05-0122 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastChrist Went the Second MileThe reason we want to go the 2nd mile in our lives is because Jesus went the 2nd mile in his death. It’s time to consider how Jesus went the 2nd mile to secure our forgiveness.
7 Quotes from the Cross
"Father, forgive them, they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34).
"This day you will be with me in Paradise" (Luke 23:43).
"Woman, behold your son" (John 19:26-27).
"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Mark 15:34; Matt. 27:46).
"I thirst" (John 19:28).
"It is finished" (John 19:30).
"Into your hands I commit my spirit" (Luke 23:46).
2019-04-1721 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastHow to Invite Someone to Church (Without Scaring Them Off)Why are those who have been changed by the gospel so timid to bring Jesus up in conversations? How does fear paralyze us so when the opportunity comes to declare our allegiance? Why does it almost seem that when we ask someone to come with us to church, we peg it as a negative thing?
It's time to go the second mile in inviting someone to church (without scaring them off).
5 Steps for Evangelism
Identify - Luke 19:10
Intercede - Eph. 1:18; Col. 4:3
Initiate - 1 Thess. 2:8
Individualize - 1 Pet. 3:15; 1 Cor. 9:22
Invite - Rom. 1:16; 2 Cor. 5:20
2019-04-1024 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastEncouraging the Faith of a ChildHave you wondered about the legacy you are going to leave? It’s time to go the second mile in your discipleship legacy.
WORK WITH THE PROVEN METHODS
1. Chronologically Teach the Bible
Teaching children isolated stories can teach moral lessons but possibly neglect God’s truth.
Prioritize a method of teaching your children the big picture of the Bible.
2. Highlight Teachable Moments
Embrace the scheduled and spontaneous moments of family discipleship.
The most memorable lessons are often associated with a pivotal experience.
3. Initiate Open-Ended Questions
Refrain from using leading or clos...2019-04-0323 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastThe Role Model Your Child Desperately NeedsFor all the role models I want my children to have, the role model whom they desperately need is me. Children need intentional parents if they are to develop in the most critical areas of life. Are you wanting to make an impact in your children? It’s time to go the second mile in your parenting.
The Problem
Prioritize placing your children in the most spiritually-nurturing environments as are available.
The most critical spiritual environment is the one in which you live.
Parents are called to be the primary evangelists and disciple-makers of their child...2019-03-2722 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastDon't Ruin Your Marriage During Your EngagementAre you working towards marriage? Don’t ruin the gift of marriage while you endure through the time of engagement. It’s time to go the second mile in your engagement.
The 1st mile of engagement is working towards marriage while avoiding physical temptations.
The 2nd mile of engagement is working towards marriage while addressing spiritual connections.
As I think through components that helped new marriages thrive, many of them worked on four key relationships during the engagement.
Jesus
Fiancé
Friend
Mentor
2019-03-2023 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastMaking Time for Your MarriageRomance, nurture, and communication takes time. Setting an appointment to spend together is going the first mile, but that isn’t enough to have a thriving marriage. Do you want your relationship to feel vibrant again? It’s time to go the second mile by making time for your marriage.
5 Reminders
The tragedy of how we spend our time is that it is often our marriages that suffer the most.
The one who deserves your best often gets your worst.
If you allot your time wisely, you will make time for your marriage.
Ignore the lie that onc...2019-03-1322 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastThe Small Issue in Your Marriage That Will Make a Big MessMany marriages I know struggle greatly with the smallest of discrepancies. The issue seems rather small but if the couple fails to address it, it will create a great mess. It’s time to go the second mile in addressing the small issues that bring potential big impact.
1. IDENTIFY: Sometimes the smallest things in marriage can become the most dangerous.
What are the obvious marriage separators endangering couples?
What are the dangerous nuisances in your marriage?
2. CATCH: Relentlessly catch the small “foxes” that seek to ruin your marriage.
Song of Solomon 2:15 – Catch the foxes for us...2019-03-0622 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastThe Right Productivity Tools for the JobHave you ever felt like you were wasting time because you simply didn't have the right tools in your hands? It's time to go the second mile in selecting the right productivity tools for the job.
Why Is This Important?
To whom much is given, much is required(Luke 12:41-48). Jesus taught a parable that highlighted the need to be faithful as stewards of the time God has given us. If you have been given much from God, are you being faithful with those opportunities?
To whom has invested much, more will be given(Matt. 25:14-30...2019-02-2724 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastGoing the 2nd Mile in the Wrong DirectionFor many of us in life trying to go all in and all out, we get frustrated because we lose time and effort in wasted pursuits. We might find ourselves going the 2nd mile, but we travel it in the wrong direction. If you have ever felt like you are wasting opportunities, it's time to go the 2nd mile in prioritizing your purposes.
How do we ensure that we go the 2nd mile in the right direction?
Identify Your Primary Purposes
The Spirit gifts every believer for the glory of God and for the good of...2019-02-2022 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastOutsmarting Your SmartphoneThe iPhone recently celebrated its 10th birthday. Let's just imagine that your usage was on the lower end of what some of the reports are giving us. Let's say that you are on your phone "only" 90 minutes a day. You know what that would equal to over the last 10 years?
328,500 minutes
5,475 hours
228 days (62% of 1 year)
Over the last 10 years, you would have spent 228 days with your eyes on a smartphone. And those are days you can never get back.
Are you missing out on opportunities to travel the 2nd mile because your gaze is on your smartphone?2019-02-1323 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastLeaving LazinessPeople often cannot start the second mile because they can barely finish the first. Are you missing opportunities to be used by God due to laziness?
STOP MAKING EXCUSES
If you are going to fight procrastination, you are going to have to address the procrastinator.
Stop disguising laziness by claiming that you aren’t the organized type.
Don’t blame God for your laziness.
You don’t need more hours in the day; you need more discipline in your day.
START MAKING SOLUTIONS
Even if you are not naturally organized, you can train yourself to be discipl...2019-02-0623 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastMemorize the 25 Most Important VersesIf we truly desire godliness, Scripture memory must be prioritized in our lives. While the task can seem daunting, we have to start somewhere. In this episode, discover some practical steps to go the 2nd mile in Scripture memory.
The Purpose of Scripture Memory
We must discipline our minds to have the words of the Bible accessible even when a copy of the Bible is not available.
Something happens when the Word becomes portable with you. Your spiritual growth is exponential. The discipline of mediating and memorizing Scripture turns God’s Word Bible from a book on a shelf...2019-01-3022 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastStop Boring Prayer TimesMany disciples of Jesus struggle with distracted, neglected, and boring prayer lives. The problem of prayer is not the content or the recipient – it's the method. In this episode, discover some tips to stop boring prayer times.
Prayer Distractions
Lack of Faith - Relying on a God we cannot see with requests we cannot handle requires faith.
Lack of Familiarity - We talk awkwardly if we don't know the person to whom we are talking.
Lack of Focus - Conflicts, concerns, and chores fill our minds and hinder our prayers.
Lack of Form - The problem of p...2019-01-2322 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastWhen Your Spiritual Growth Seems StuntedAs believers, we should be in a state of spiritual growth, but too often, we seem to be stuck in the same place. If there is a true profession of faith, there should be a true progression of faith. In this episode, we discuss the importance of selecting that next spiritual discipline to make intentional progress in following Jesus.
Getting Honest (You're Not There Yet)
If there is a true profession of faith, there should be a true progression of faith.
Spiritual disciplines are not meant to make you more liked by Jesus but to make yo...2019-01-1621 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastWhy You Forget What You Read in the Bible If you have been reading the Bible lately, can you think of what you read? What has impacted you? Where did you find it? Here's my realization regarding many people's dilemma: If you find time to read, you rarely remember what you read.
Why is that? Because we settled for reading the pages of the Bible instead of meditating on the truths of the Bible. The difference has paramount implications.
If you always forget what you read in the Bible, maybe it is time for you to discover the lost art of scriptural meditation.
The...2019-01-0922 minThe 2nd Mile PodcastIntroducing The 2nd Mile PodcastThe people who make the greatest impact are never those who do the bare minimum. So why is it that we are often inclined to do "just enough" and not give our absolute best? What would our lives be like if we tried to go the 2nd mile in every worthwhile endeavor? That's what this podcast is about.2018-12-3108 min