Episode 195: “Just Be Normal, Bro” with Christiana Miller In this episode of the Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast, JC is joined by the hilarious and deeply insightful Christiana Miller — singer, songwriter, comedian, and social media influencer — who’s using her platforms to help people break free from the chains of legalism… one reel at a time. Christiana’s message is simple: “Just be normal, bro.” You don’t have to go to extremes to follow Jesus. You don’t have to live in fear to be faithful. And no, you don’t have to give up your personality to be holy. We talk about: Life after legalism and what “normal” faith looks like How humor and music help in the healing process The mental toll of performance-based religion Why it’s 100% possible to have a thriving life and a healthy relationship with Jesus — without all the rules Whether you're fresh out of fundamentalism or just realizing how deep it went, this episode will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even breathe a little easier. Because freedom isn’t just theological — it’s personal. https://www.youtube.com/@christianamillermusic https://recoveringfundamentalist.org/ https://hopechurchcatoosa.com/

In this episode of the Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast, Host, JC Groves sits down with Dr. Marcus Merritt, Director of the Doctor of Ministry program at Luther Rice Theological Seminary, for an honest and eye-opening conversation about accreditation in Christian education. Whether you’re considering Bible college, seminary, or guiding the next generation of church leaders, this episode dives into the practical, theological, and ministry-related implications of choosing an accredited vs. unaccredited institution. We talk about: What accreditation actually is—and why it matters The real-world consequences of unaccredited degrees How credibility in education supports the credibility of ministry The balance between spiritual formation and academic rigor With humor, honesty, and insight, this conversation challenges some deeply held assumptions and offers clarity for anyone navigating the world of Christian higher ed. Grab your coffee, light up that cigar, and join us for a conversation every pastor, student, and parent needs to hear. Website: https://www.lutherrice.edu Request Info Page: https://www.lutherrice.edu/requestinfo/ Doctor of Ministry Page: https://www.lutherrice.edu/degree-programs/doctor_of_ministrys Our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/lutherrice_official https://recoveringfundamentalist.org/ https://www.patreon.com/c/RecoveringFundamentalistPodcastJC?redirect=true https://hopechurchcatoosa.com/

EPISODE 193: The Power of Prayer (with Danny Hesterly of Pray Chattanooga) What if prayer isn’t about performance—but about presence? In this episode of the Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast, host JC Groves sits down with Danny Hesterly, founder of Pray Chattanooga, to talk about reclaiming the beauty, honesty, and power of prayer. For many recovering from religious trauma or legalism, prayer can feel like a painful memory or a forgotten practice. But what if prayer is actually the path back to healing, peace, and connection with God? Danny shares stories from the grassroots prayer movement sweeping through Chattanooga, along with practical encouragement for anyone who feels distant from God—or just doesn’t know where to start again. If prayer has ever felt confusing, heavy, or fake, this conversation will remind you of one powerful truth: God isn’t impressed with your performance—He just wants your presence. Billy Graham Video from episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wrvqVnFrkM&t=141s https://recoveringfundamentalist.org/ HopeChurchCatoosa.com

Episode #192 we dive deep into the topic of "Healthy Churches - What to Look For." Our special guest, Chris Goeppner, pastor of Riverbank Church in Vermont. Chris brings invaluable insights on identifying signs of health and vitality in church communities. From leadership transparency to genuine community engagement, we explore practical markers that define a thriving church. Whether you're a church leader, member, or simply curious about church health, this episode offers wisdom and inspiration for cultivating vibrant spiritual communities. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on what truly makes a church thrive! https://riverbankchurch.com/ https://hopechurchcatoosa.com/ https://recoveringfundamentalist.org/ https://www.patreon.com/c/RecoveringFundamentalistPodcastJC?redirect=true

Episode 191: The Weight of Perfectionism in the IFB and Legalistic Churches In this powerful episode, Host JC Groves is joined by Sarah Vick, founder of A-mom-logetics—a ministry dedicated to equipping moms to defend a rock-solid faith in a shifting-sand culture and communicate deep truths to their kids in age-appropriate ways. Together, we unpack the silent burden of perfectionism that so many of us carried in the IFB and other legalistic church environments. From personal stories to practical insights, we explore how performance-based faith distorts the gospel, impacts parenting, and damages our view of God. Sarah shares her journey of healing, and how moms (and all believers) can begin breaking the cycle of fear, shame, and spiritual burnout—and instead embrace grace, honesty, and freedom in Christ. If you've ever felt like you had to be perfect to be loved by God, this episode is for you.

On this episode we dive into all things Word Of Life with our special guest Jonathan Bubar. Whether you're familiar with their ministry or new to their impact, this episode is packed with insights and stories that will inspire and challenge. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! wol.org recoveringfundamentalist.org hopechurchcatoosa.com

In this episode Host JC Groves welcomes Joey Presutti — a church planter and pastor who’s helping reshape the way we think about starting new churches in a post-COVID world. As two new church planters ( Joey @ the Gather Church - 4 months old. Me @ Hope Church - 2 years old) we talk about the new challenges, the unexpected opportunities, and what’s still worth fighting for as we move forward. If you’re thinking about planting a church, leading one, or just wondering how to engage this cultural moment post-pandemic — this episode is for you. Hope Church Resedency: JC@hopechurchcatoosa.com HopeChurchCatoosa.com Sponsors Mission.edu barzonDESIGN.com Tyndale.com

"REDEEMED FROM A BROKEN IDENTITY - GODS REDEMPTION STORY” Because for so many of us, recovery isn’t just about what we’ve walked away from—it’s about what we’re walking toward. Healing. Wholeness. Freedom. And not just living in recovery, but moving forward as someone who’s been recovered. I’m joined today by Sam Jones—a longtime listener of the show who’s now stepping behind the mic to share his story.(His voice however should come as no surprise. As He is the voice of our intro) And let me tell you—it’s powerful. It’s honest. And it’s proof that even after the damage of fundamentalism, there’s hope on the other side. So wherever you are on your own road to recovery, I hope this episode reminds you that you're not alone… and that there is life ahead.

Episode Title: The Pain of Betrayal / The Power of Redemption – Part 2 (with Jacob Kesling) In Part 2 of our conversation, Jacob Kesling joins host JC Groves to unpack the deep wounds of betrayal and the relentless hope found in redemption. From the raw realities of failure to the beauty of restoration, Jacob shares his journey with honesty, grace, and hard-won wisdom. Whether you're walking through your own season of brokenness or standing on the other side of healing, this episode is a reminder that no story is beyond the reach of grace. Listen in as we explore what it means to be truly known, deeply hurt, and ultimately, fully redeemed. RecoveringFundamentalist.org

Episode #186 we’re diving into a topic that’s at the core of what we do here—the power of storytelling. We all know that stories have a way of breaking down barriers, making truth relatable, and reminding us that we’re not alone in our experiences. And we’ve got a great guest with us today—Tommy from This is My Story. If you’ve ever wondered about the impact a personal testimony can have, this episode is for you! Miracle Matt Film https://thisismystory.org/films/miracle-matt/ Donate to TIMS https://thisismystory.org/support/ This Is My Story Website https://thisismystory.org/ This Is My Story Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@ThisIsMyStoryPODCAST Alternative Halftime Show Website https://www.althalftimeshow.com/

Episode #185: The Pain of Betrayal This is part one of a two part conversation. Part one is a deeply personal episode, as we explore the profound impact of betrayal on our lives. Through candid story and heartfelt reflections, JC takes us on a journey of his life and ministry over the last 20 years. Together we delve into the raw emotions and challenges faced when trust is broken. But also how to not stay there and allow bitters and hurt to hinder us from moving forward! In this epiosde we are reminded that God is always at work. Many times when we can't see it... But one day we benifit from it! Join us as we navigate the complexities of forgiveness, healing, and finding hope after betrayal.

JC, Matt, and Nate are all back together for a new episode in a new year! This episode focuses on the Peace of God which passes all understanding. Peace is the fruit of the Spirit that defines the life of the believer. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, is leading His church into His will for us and He gives His peace to those who follow Him. Is our local church a place of peace? Is our home a place of Peace? Do I have peace in the storm? What does the future of the RFP look like? We deal with all of these questions and more on the first episode in 2025!

Join host JC Groves and Matt Dudley for our RFP 6th anual Christmas Eve speial. Special Music by Chosen Road.

Our friend, brother and co host of the Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast, Nathan Cravatt, recently returned home from a mission trip to the country of Nepal. Several days after returning home he became very ill. He has only gotten worse. Many of you have asked how you can help. Right now, other than prayer for Nathans healing, financial support to cover the incoming medical bills is the greatest need.

Disclaimer: There is a lot of sensitive information in this episode that is not suitable for young children. In this episode, the guys confront a very sinister attack against the ministry God has called them to do. Sometimes all you have to do is wait and those who oppose the truth of Scripture will fall into their own traps. We should never celebrate when men fall, but we do not need to fail to observe what led them to their fate. Legalism is an old attack against the Gospel and it just does not work. This episode is a powerful illustration of that fact.

JC, Matt, and Nathan discuss the division in our country that comes from politics. It's Election Year and we are called to live in a way that extends grace and displays the love of Christ for our enemies without sacrificing the truth. Join us for an honest look at the difficulty of navigating the political conversation in 2024.

This month, JC, Matt, and Nate interview Shane Pruitt. Shane serves as the National Next Gen Director for the North American Mission Board (NAMB). He and his wife, Kasi reside in Texas, with their five children. He has been in ministry for over 20 years as a church planter, lead pastor, and student pastor. Shane is also a traveling communicator, evangelist, and Bible teacher. Every year he speaks to over a hundred thousand people about the good news of Jesus Christ. He is the author of two books and a bible study, 9 Common Lies Christians Believe: And Why God’s Truth Is Infinitely Better, Calling Out the Called: Discipling Those Called to Ministry Leadership, and Revival Generation: Awakening to a Movement of God. He is also one of the hosts of The Gensend Podcast.

Big announcement in this episode dealing with the future of the RFP. Also, there is a surprise guest and some huge truth bombs toward the end of the episode!

JC, Nate, Matt Dudley, and Mark Milioni have a conversation about discipleship and Jesus' command in John 13:34-35 for His disciples to love one another as He had loved them. Many things have become the defining mark of churches and movements throughout history that Jesus never intended to be the identity of His church. https://mission.edu/ https://www.sullivanridgechurch.com/

Dr. Dave Douglass is the former president of Hyles Anderson College. He joins JC, Brian, and Nate on the RFP to discuss legalism, his grace awakening, and his time serving as a student and then the president of the flagship IFB Bible College.