In this episode, we sit down for an honest, often humorous, and deeply thoughtful conversation about Catholicism — tackling the questions people are actually asking.

We cover everything from misunderstandings around Marian devotion to what the Rosary really is (spoiler: it’s not just beads, it’s a journey through the life of Christ). We talk about the structure of the Church, what the Pope’s role actually is (and isn’t), and why it’s all a little messier — and more human — than you might think.

Some highlights:

Why Catholics don’t worship Mary (but why she’s honored)

The meaning and process behind praying the Rosary

How Catholic teaching draws from both Scripture and tradition

Clearing up the idea of papal infallibility (yes, Popes can be wrong!)

A call for unity — recognizing that we’re all on the same team

This isn’t a lecture — it’s a conversation. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you just might walk away with a fresh perspective on what it means to be part of the Church — Catholic or not.

#afterchurchpodcast #catholic #pope #rosary #podcast #christian

From the Parable of the Prodigal Son to the Lost Sheep, this episode explores:

• The lavish, unexpected grace of the Father
• How resentment and pride creep in, especially for the “older brothers” among us
• Why God’s grace should lead us to celebration—not judgment

The guys also take a step back to reflect on the cultural moment we’re living in:

• People are asking spiritual questions—on podcasts, in communities, in crisis
• How the Church can show up, not to win a fight, but to win people
• Why grace, not religiosity, should be our default posture in a divided world

Kurt and Trey don’t shy away from real talk—how God might use voices like Joe Rogan or Jordan Peterson to stir curiosity, why the Church should run toward prodigals, and what it looks like to represent Jesus in both word and action.

“It’s not a fight against people—it’s a fight FOR people.”

“Let our default be compassion and grace—just like the Father.”

We also connect this parable to the Book of Revelation, where Jesus is portrayed as the Bridegroom returning for His Bride (Revelation 19). The conversation explores what it means to wait well, to live faithfully, and to be ready—not just in word, but in a life that bears real spiritual fruit.

One of the most profound moments in this episode is the emotional weight behind Jesus’ words: "I never knew you." What does it mean for people who looked the part—who served, who sat in our pews—but weren’t truly known by Him?

Key Scriptures:

Matthew 25:1–13 (Parable of the Ten Virgins)

Revelation 19:6–9 (Wedding Supper of the Lamb)

Matthew 6:33 ("Seek first the kingdom...")

Matthew 22 (Wedding Banquet)

Matthew 25:14–30 (Parable of the Talents)

Luke 15 (Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, Prodigal Son)

#afterchurchpodcast #JesusIsComing #BookOfRevelation #Bridegroom #WeddingFeast #TenVirgins #KingdomLiving #ChristianPodcast #eschatology #parables #666 #endtimes #podcast #rapture

Join us for this convicting yet hopeful conversation as we prepare our hearts for Christ's return and the mission we’re called to live out today.

#AfterChurchPodcast #SeekFirst #KingdomOfGod #EastridgeChurch #FaithInAction

Here’s what we cover:

Why the soil (your heart) isn’t the hero

What it looks like to actually receive God’s Word

How conviction and encouragement are both part of spiritual growth

 Why the goal isn’t just hearing—it’s fruit

 What kind of potential God can grow from one tiny seed

We kick things off by revisiting the powerful story of Lazarus in John 11 — exploring how Jesus’ tears, His timing, and His questions point us to a deeper understanding of His humanity and divinity. From there, the conversation moves into how God calls people into ministry — often unexpectedly and uniquely — and why biblical education isn't just for pastors.

Dr. Steve Steinhilber shares compelling insights on what happens after seminary: how tools like theology, hermeneutics, and biblical languages help people read Scripture more faithfully and interpret it more responsibly. We even dive into the fascinating detail of the "charcoal fire" in John 21 and how our senses are tied to memory and restoration.

Whether you're feeling called into ministry, hungry to better understand the Bible, or just curious how God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways, this episode will challenge and inspire you to listen more closely to what God is saying.

Together, we explore:

What Jesus was truly experiencing in that moment

The deep connection to Psalm 22

The spiritual reality of Christ being forsaken—so that we never would be

How this moment invites us into deeper trust, even in silence

Practical tools for reading and understanding the Old Testament through the lens of Jesus

How the resurrection redefines everything

Whether you’re new to faith or you’ve been walking with Jesus for years, this episode will encourage, equip, and challenge you in all the right ways.

Joining Trey and Kurt for this episode is Dr. Evan Posey, the Executive Vice President and Provost of Luther Rice College and Seminary. Together, they have a fascinating and "messy middle" conversation about the trustworthiness of the resurrection of Jesus. Is it a historical fact? Did it really happen? What evidence supports the claim?

In this episode, the conversation takes listeners through a combination of theological reflection and historical evidence. We explore the implications of the resurrection, the transformation of the disciples, and how these events have changed the course of history. Dr. Posey shares his expertise in apologetics, helping us understand the textual evidence and historical context that support the claim of the resurrection.

They also discuss the real-world significance of the resurrection, not just as a theological concept, but as an event that has the power to impact our lives today. Whether you are a long-time believer, a skeptic, or just curious, this episode challenges us all to confront the truth about what happened on that first Easter morning.

Whether you're familiar with the biblical accounts or hearing these questions for the first time, Episode 35 is an engaging exploration of faith, history, and the messy middle of difficult questions. Tune in, and don’t miss out on this intellectual yet deeply personal conversation.

Key Takeaways:

- Historical evidence supporting the resurrection of Jesus

- Why the resurrection is the cornerstone of the Christian faith

- Insights into how skeptics and believers view the resurrection

- The impact of the resurrection on believers' lives today

Make sure to like, subscribe, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify to help others find this enlightening episode.

[This episode is in partnership with The Town Square Podcast, a local community podcast hosted by Trey Bailey and Gabriel Stovall. They have created a space where local leaders and influencers can have difficult, but constructive, conversations where the aim is unity, not uniformity. You can find The Town Square Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or at www.TheTownSquarePodcast.com.]

#podcast #faith #afterchurchpodcast #thetownsquarepodcast #resurrection #apologetics #hottopics

Visit a church Easter Sunday (Apr 20). Here's a partial list of local churches in the Newton County area:

Eastridge Church

Fusion Church

James Paschal Missionary Baptist

Life Now Church

Hope Church

New Life Praise Center

Springfield Baptist

Journey Church

Church 213

Wesley Methodist (Easter on The Square)

St. Augustine (Catholic)

Holy Cross Cathedral (Anglican)

Pleasant View Baptist

New Hope Baptist

First Baptist of Covington

First Methodist of Covington

First Presbyterian of Covington

Solid Rock Church

The Church Covington

Central Community Church

Starrsville Church

Dovestone Church

Mansfield Baptist

Good Hope Baptist

Stewart Community Church

Bethlehem Baptist

Crossroads Baptist

CrossPointe Church

Join us as we explore how God grows our compassion for others, the importance of obedience even when we don't "feel" it, and how to view everyday interactions as opportunities to share the gospel. 

Highlights Include:

How CLC is influencing the local community

Stories of students finding confidence and academic success

The power of integrating faith into students' lives

Ways you can support and get involved

Visit NewtonCLC.com to learn more, volunteer, or donate.

Let’s Be On a Mission Together!

#EastridgeChurch #NewtonCLC #MissionsMonth #FaithInAction #ChristianLearningCenter #CommunityImpact #ServeOthers #afterchurchpodcast

Trey and Kurt also discuss the illustration of a Disco Ball that shines in all directions. So go be a disco ball, baby—reflect His light everywhere you go!

Giving Hands Food Pantry:

www.CovingtonFirst.org/givinghands

Email Community@covingtonfirst.org

Give to Eastridge Missions:

Eastridge.Church/Missions

#EastridgeChurch #GivingHands #Missions #Generosity #BeADiscoBall #afterchurchpodcast

We’re unpacking James and even getting into the Piper vs. N.T. Wright debate (don’t worry, we keep it friendly). At the end of the day, it all comes down to this: If you’re a Christian… act like one. Live it out. Bear fruit. Be all in. Because real faith? It doesn’t just sit there—it walks.

Topics Covered:

-Faith vs. Works: Are they two sides of the same coin?

-What does it mean to be alive in Christ?

-The Lazarus illustration—get up and walk!

-John Piper, N.T. Wright, and the debate on justification

-Sheep, goats, and how Jesus actually judges us (Matthew 25)

-What does it look like to live in allegiance to King Jesus?

#FaithAndWorks #BibleStudy #ChristianLiving #Jesus #Podcast #afterchurchpodcast #james

Many believers talk about freedom in Christ, but what does it actually look like? In this episode, we wrap up our journey through Galatians and explore what it means to sow to the Spirit instead of the flesh. True freedom isn’t about doing whatever we want—it’s about walking in the Spirit, staying rooted in God’s Word, and living in Koinonia (authentic fellowship).

We break down the practical ways to grow in faith, avoid the traps of the flesh, and experience the grace of God through community, prayer, and worship. Plus, we share key scriptures like Galatians, Ephesians, James, and 1 John to guide you in your walk with Christ.

Key Takeaways:

What it really means to "sow to the Spirit"

The role of Koinonia (fellowship) in your spiritual growth

Practical ways to walk in the Spirit daily

Looking for a place to start? Dive into Galatians & Ephesians 4-5!

Join us for a lighthearted yet thoughtful conversation that blends faith, family, and the joy of living in the freedom of being God's kids. It’s all about embracing what God has for us and living life with purpose.

The After Church Podcast is available on all major Podcast Platforms.

The legal reality of justification – BAM! (Cue the gavel drop!)

Once justified, always justified? 

Living as sons not just servants – what that means for us today 

The ultimate command: Love God. Love people.

Galatians is jam-packed with truth, and we’re unpacking it all in a way that’s real, relatable, and relevant. So buckle up, grab your Bible, and let’s explore what freedom in Christ really looks like!

Listen now and let’s grow together in faith!

Join us as we discuss the transformative power of the gospel, the freedom found in Christ, and the call to walk in faithfulness. Whether you're new to your faith or have been a believer for years, this study of Galatians is a powerful reminder of the gospel’s impact on our daily lives.

Scripture References:

Galatians 2:20 | 2 Corinthians 5:17 | Romans 6 & 7 | Philippians 2:12 | Philippians 1:6 | James 2

Key Points:

The importance of considering others before ourselves, drawing insights from Paul's letters.

Personal anecdotes about how we navigate our freedoms while being mindful not to cause others to stumble.

The difference between judgment and discipleship, and how we can lovingly support each other in our faith journeys.

The role of community in our spiritual growth and the process of sanctification.

Whether you're curious about how to handle gray areas in your faith or looking for practical ways to live out unity and love in your church community, this episode is packed with thought-provoking discussions and real-life applications.

Listen in as we share personal stories, practical insights, and even a few laughs along the way. Whether you're married, single, or somewhere in between, you'll find something relatable and encouraging in this conversation. 

In this episode, we discuss sexual immorality and church unity. We unpack the teachings of the Apostle Paul, exploring how he addressed serious issues like sexual sin, lawsuits among believers, and the proper way for Christians to handle moral failings within the church.

We discuss the cultural challenges that can lead to sexual immorality, offering practical advice on how to "flee" from temptation and maintain a pure lifestyle. You'll hear real stories and insights from pastors, sharing their experiences with accountability, setting boundaries, and seeking redemption. Whether you're part of a church community or just interested in what the Bible says about these topics, this episode provides a candid look at the messy realities of church life and the hope we can find in Christ.

Tune in for an honest conversation that doesn't shy away from the hard questions, but seeks to find answers rooted in faith and understanding. We hope this episode encourages you to pursue holiness and provides you with the tools to navigate the complexities of our modern world with integrity.

Questions From The Podcast:

1.What sorts of things are you tempted to “boast in” other than Jesus? 

2.How have you struggled to walk in the Spirit vs walking in your own power/wisdom? Give a specific example.

3.How have you seen the emptiness of worldly wisdom in your life?

4.How are you actively combating your own pride in order to humbly boast in the Lord?

Topics:

-Embrace unity in Christ while respecting diverse opinions.

-Avoid becoming a stumbling block to fellow believers in matters of faith.

-Apply love, wisdom, and consideration to divisive topics, ensuring that your actions reflect your faith.

Join us as we dive deep into the scriptural principles behind these disputable matters and learn how to maintain unity within the church while upholding individual convictions.

If you are interested in thought-provoking discussions on the Bible, this podcast is a valuable resource for you. Join us as we dive deep into the book of Romans and explore the timeless truths it offers to help us live with purpose and make a positive impact in our world.

Join Trey Bailey, Cameron Moore, and Kurt Petersheim as they discuss funny church signs, foreknowledge, predestination, and the assurance we have in Christ's love.

They talk about Calvinism, Arminianism, a third way, and so much more.

Scripture focus: Romans 8:28-39

Main point: God completely saves. 

(8:28) We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.

(8:31) If God is for us, who can be against us?

(8:35) Who/what will separate us from the love of Christ

(8:37) We are more than conquerors THROUGH him who loved us!

(8:38-39) For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Questions for reflection:

1. What does it mean that God doesn’t meet you halfway, but comes the whole way to exactly where you’re at?
2. How should this change the way you view your Christian walk/sanctification?
3. Have you ever let sin or troubling circumstances blind you to the truth that nothing can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus?
4. Have you ever asked yourself these questions: “Am I going to make it? Am I actually saved? Have I come all this way just to fall (or fall again)?”
5. Why is it important that we remember God doesn’t halfway save, but saves completely?

Eastridge.Church/Romans

Host Trey Bailey welcomes Stephanie Akiyama, Campus Director at Eastridge South and Scott England, Associate Pastor at Eastridge East. They dig into some interesting topics including a prayer language. Listen with an open mind.

Scripture focus: Romans 8:1-27

Main point: The children of God are led by the Spirit of God.

The Holy Spirit lives in you.

No condemnation.

Children of God

Questions for reflection:

1. Why does it really matter that we know whether or not we are children of God? (8:14-17)
2. How does knowing that you are a child of God change your attitude and the way that you live? (8:14-17)
3. How have you been empowered and equipped to “put to death” the sin in your life, by the Holy Spirit? How have you struggled with that? (8:12-13)
4. Have you ever experienced the Holy Spirit’s help in your prayer life? If so, describe what that was like. (8:26-27)

Eastridge.Church/Romans

Host Trey Bailey is joined by Eastridge East Pastor, Kurt Petersheim and Eastridge South Associate Pastor, Cameron Moore, and they discuss the most "human" and "relatable" passage of Scripture. Paul's struggle with sin is apparent and the guys dig into their own struggles as well.

Disclaimer: if you can't handle pastors being real and admitting their struggles, then you might not want to watch this one.

Scripture focus: Romans 7

Romans 7:24-25 “Wretched man that I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!”

Main point: The struggle within.

But we are not meant to live our lives defeated by sin.

Questions for reflection:

1. Does God view intentional versus unintentional sin differently?
2. Do you ever struggle doing the right thing or the Biblical thing? What does that struggle mean?
3. Knowing that Christ has died for our sins and will forgive us, isn’t it easier to just sin now and ask for forgiveness later?
4. How can I escape the temptation of sin?

Eastridge.Church/Romans

Host Trey Bailey is joined by Eastridge East Pastor, Kurt Petersheim to discuss Romans 6. The topic of baptism comes up and turns out to be revealing. What happens in that water?

And we talk about killing sin or it be killing you! (John Owen)

Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Romans 6:1

Scripture focus: Romans 6:1-23

Romans 6:3-4 // …when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.

Romans 6:11 // So you also should consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus.

Romans 6:12 // Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires.

Romans 6:19b // …you must give yourselves to be slaves of righteous living SO THAT you will become holy.

Romans 6:23 // For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

Main point: Dead to sin – Alive to God

Why shouldn’t we keep on sinning?

How does baptism help give us a real example?

What happens in baptism? (and maybe, WHO does any work?)

Questions for reflection:

1. Why can't we keep sinning so that God can give us more grace
2. How does it make you feel knowing that God has credited you as being right in His sight?
3. What does it mean to you to be dead to sin and made alive to God?
4. How do you live a surrendered life to God?

Eastridge.Church/Romans

Host Trey Bailey engages with Gary Thompson (Eastridge South Pastor) and Kurt Petersheim (Eastridge East Pastor) about what the resurrection means for us today. We look a little deeper into Romans 4:25-5:11and answer some honest reflection questions.

EASTER – He is risen! He is risen indeed!

Before we get to today’s Scripture focus, let’s do a quick recap of Rom 1-4

• Romans is a letter. To real people in a real time dealing with a real situation of disunity about who is living with the righteousness of God. So, Paul gives a clear presentation of the Gospel (the good news) that we can all agree and believe.
• Romans 1:16-17 // Not ashamed of the Gospel. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes, by faith.
• Romans 1:18-4:25 // Heart of the Gospel = Justification (by Faith)
• Everyone is affected by sin through Adam.
• We are all accountable to God for that sin.
• The problem: we are all sinners who deserve death / wrath
• The solution: (3:21-26) “But God has shown us a way to be made right with him…by placing our faith in Christ…”
• Romans 4 // Faith Alone // A free gift of God

Scripture focus: Romans 4:25-5:11

Romans 4:25 // “He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised to life to make us right with God.” NLT

“He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.” NIV

– EASTER – Resurrection Sunday

Main point: We rejoice because of Christ’s resurrection.

If we are made right with God (justified) then we have peace (5:1) and hope (5:4-5). Peace and hope give us great JOY (5:11).

Romans 5:1 // “Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.”

Romans 5:3-5 // “We can rejoice too in suffering…endurance, character, hope…hope does not disappoint.”

Romans 5:11 // “So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.”

Questions for reflection:

1. Why does Paul say that we “rejoice” because we’ve received reconciliation through Jesus? How does reconciliation with someone bring joy? (Think of an example from an earthly relationship.)
2. Can you think of a time when you went through a trial of some kind, which resulted in you having a stronger Christian character and greater hope in Christ?
3. Why is the resurrection so important for us in our faith?

Eastridge.Church/Romans

• Has anyone ever vouched for you?
• Or have you ever vouched for anyone?
• Have you ever paid someone’s bill/debt?

Key idea:

Justification by faith (“to declare righteous”):

• New status - right with God and forgiven
• New family - included in God’s people
• New future - transformed life IN CHRIST

Questions for reflection:

1. Share a gift that you received that you felt like was “too much”- more than should have been spent on you, more than you deserved? How did it make you feel in receiving such a gift?
2. Why do we, instead of receiving God’s gift of Jesus to save us, try to earn God’s salvation(or even God’s love and approval)?
3. In what ways are you still trying to earn God’s salvation and love?
4. How can we help each other to remember that faith in Jesus makes us righteous and right with God?

In episode 3 of the After Church Podcast, host Trey Bailey (Eastridge XP) chats with Cameron Moore (South Associate Pastor) and Kurt Petersheim (East Campus Pastor) about Romans 1:18-3:20, a very difficult passage describing our sin and God's wrath. We discuss the ways in which we exchange the truth of God for a lie, and other.

Have you ever traded/exchanged/bought something and felt like you got ripped off?

In Romans 1:18-3:20 there are a series of exchanges we make, to our detriment. Things we think are better than what God is (or what God has) for us. 

So, the main point we’ll get to is that NO ONE is righteous before God on our OWN merit. Rather, we are all sinful and deserving of God’s just judgment and wrath.

Questions for reflection:

1. What does it mean to be sinful; what is the nature of sin?
2. What is judgment; what is wrath?

Romans 1:16-17 - 16For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.” 

Paul is “not ashamed of the gospel.” 

Questions for Reflection:

1. How is the Gospel the “power of God for salvation”? How have you seen this reality in your own life/faith?
2. How might your life look differently, today, if you truly lived like Paul, “unashamed of the Gospel”? Would anything change?

For all the resources in this series check out Eastridge.Church/Romans

Part 1/Episode 1 of the Romans After Church Podcast has host Trey Bailey, Executive Pastor of Eastridge Church, chatting with Stephanie Akiyama, South Campus Director, and Kurt Petersheim, East Campus Pastor, about the context and culture surrounding Paul's letter to the Romans.

General intro to the letter to the Romans.

Scripture focus: Romans 1:1-7

Who wrote Romans? 

• Who’s thoughts?
• Who actually penned words to paper?
• Who read/performed the letter?

Who is the letter addressed to?

When was it written?

WHY did Paul write the letter? 

What’s the context for the letter…what’s going on in Rome?

Why is it important to read Romans today?

What excites YOU about studying this letter together?

What’s your favorite verse/section of Romans?

Look briefly at Romans 1:1-7 (see sermon notes for bullet points and items to discuss)

• Servant, messenger, set apart
• Good News/Gospel is that God has made a way for us to be reconciled to God through Jesus
• Son of God/Christ our King
• “Obedience of faith”

Questions for reflection:

1. Paul, who calls himself a slave/servant of Christ Jesus, has been called (set apart) to tell the Gentiles about the good news of Jesus. What is your “calling” (vocation)? How can you display your servanthood to Jesus?
2. One of the reasons Paul writes to the church in Rome is to help them become unified. Two groups of differing opinions were not in unity. Paul points to the Gospel as the only means by which we come together. What is one way you can promote peace in your church congregation, small group, or family?

Find all the resources at Eastridge.Church/Romans