In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo engages in a rich discussion with Jim Newheiser, a seasoned author and biblical counselor. They delve into Jim's Lifeline mini-book, Help, I Want to Change, and explore the principles of sanctification. Jim shares his journey into biblical counseling, greatly influenced by Jay Adams, and highlights how the Bible provides comprehensive guidance for addressing spiritual and emotional challenges. The episode tackles various misconceptions about sanctification, stressing that true biblical change is grounded in the Gospel, requires a Christ-motivated intentionality, and ultimately aims to glorify God. They also discuss practical aspects of applying biblical change in everyday life and the importance of personal growth for effective ministry.00:25 Introducing Jim Newheiser02:19 Jim's Journey into Biblical Counseling04:38 Understanding Biblical Change10:42 Challenges in Sanctification17:28 The Role of the Gospel in Change19:30 Practical Applications of Biblical Change22:12 Closing Remarks and ResourcesFollow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressincGrab a copy of our mini-book Help! I Want to Change: https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/help-i-want-to-change/

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo interviews Dr. Scott Mell author of 'Loving Messy People.' Dr. Mehl gives an overview of how discipleship looks in the church, and explains how his experiences as a young pastor highlighted the need for better equipping in ministry. The conversation touches on the importance of active listening, the interplay of suffering and sin in life's messiness, and how the Gospel is the ultimate source of hope and transformation. Anthony and Dr. Mehl also discuss the role of community in supporting one another and the unique challenges that introverts and extroverts might face in ministry.00:24 Meet Scott Mell: Author and Pastor02:15 The Journey Behind 'Loving Messy People'05:24 Understanding and Ministering to Messy People07:16 The Role of the Gospel in Messy Lives11:12 Balancing Personal Limitations and Community Support16:00 Practical Ways to Love and Serve Others20:14 Encouragement for All Personality Types24:11 Final Thoughts and ResourcesFollow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressincGrab a copy of 'Loving Messy People:' https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/loving-messy-people/ Grab a copy of our companion guide: https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/intro-to-messy-care-and-discipleship/

In this second part of our discussion on 'Biblical Counseling and Mental Disorder Diagnosis' Dr. Jenn Chen and Dr. Ernie Baker join Anthony Russo to further evaluate the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) from a biblical perspective, exploring its cultural and clinical implications. The conversation delves into how biblical counseling addresses issues of mental health differently than secular psychology, emphasizing the sufficiency of Scripture and the transformative power of the gospel. This episode provides practical advice for pastors, biblical counselors, and Christian parents, encouraging them to stay rooted in biblical truths while addressing modern mental health challenges.00:50 Discussing the DSM and Cultural Implications01:16 Addressing Gender Identity and Paraphilic Disorders02:51 Biblical Counseling vs. Secular Therapy03:35 The Role of Parents in Protecting Children04:56 The Importance of a Biblical Worldview08:58 Information, Interpretation, and Intervention15:20 Encouragement for Biblical Counselors18:39 The Power of the Gospel in Counseling22:06 Concluding Thoughts and ResourcesFollow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressincGrab a copy of 'Biblical Counseling and Mental Disorder Diagnosis': https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/biblical-counseling-and-mental-disorder-diagnosis/

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo is joined by Dr. Jen Chen and Dr. Ernie Baker for a thought-provoking panel discussion. They delve into Dr. Chen's new book, 'Biblical Counseling and Mental Disorder Diagnosis,' the DSM, and the tension between the secular and biblical counseling worlds. Dr. Chen and Dr. Baker discuss the misconceptions and challenges surrounding mental disorder diagnoses, like mental health labels. The conversation explores the sufficiency of scripture in addressing mental health struggles and the potential pitfalls of integrating secular psychological terms and methods into biblical counseling. Listeners are encouraged to re-evaluate their understanding of mental health diagnoses using Scripture-based standards. 00:23 Meet the Panel: Dr. Jen Chen and Dr. Ernie Baker01:02 Introduction to the book 'Biblical Counseling and Mental Disorder Diagnosis'02:37 Understanding the DSM and Its Implications05:34 Biblical Counseling vs. Secular Psychology08:14 The Impact of Mental Health Labels14:12 Cultural Influence on Psychiatric Diagnoses20:09 Encouragement for Pastors and Counselors34:25 Conclusion and Next Episode TeaserFollow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressincGrab a copy of 'Biblical Counseling and Mental Disorder Diagnosis': https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/biblical-counseling-and-mental-disorder-diagnosis/

In this second part of our conversation on biblical manhood, host Anthony Russo and author Aaron White delve into the inspiration behind Aaron's book, Minivan Manhood, and its connection to the shepherding principles found in Deuteronomy 6. Aaron shares practical insights on the privileges and responsibilities of a father and a husband. He expands on the importance of modeling a praying life within the family. The discussion highlights the significance of being a godly leader in the home and offers practical advice for men who may feel hesitant or embarrassed about taking these steps. Listen to learn more about the importance of delighting in the Lord and shepherding one's family with grace and responsibility.00:15 Inspiration behind Minivan Manhood04:12 The Importance of Prayer in Family Life09:50 Intentionally Ministering to Your Wife14:22 Serving Your Family Out of Delightment in God16:26 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressincGrab a copy of Minivan Manhood: https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/minivan-manhood/Grab a copy of Man Up, Kneel Down: https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/man-up-kneel-down/

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo interviews Aaron White, author of Man Up Kneel Down and Minivan Manhood. Aaron, a pastor and worship director with extensive experience, shares his passion for guiding men to live Christ-centered lives and discusses the challenges Christian men face in today's culture. Aaron emphasizes the necessity to practice the Ephesians 5:25 command and the importance of being a faithful leader at home. He also highlights the pervasive issue of pornography in the church and the need for intentional family discipleship. Tune in for an insightful conversation on biblical manhood.00:23 Meet Aaron White: Author and Pastor03:54 Leaving a Legacy of Wisdom to the Next Generation06:16 Challenges Christian Men Face09:35 Living Out Ephesians 5:2513:19 Cultural Obstacles to Biblical Manhood15:37 Encouragement and Exhortation for Men17:12 Closing Remarks and ResourcesFollow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressincAaron White's books on Manhood: Man Up, Kneel Down: https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/man-up-kneel-down/Minivan Manhood: https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/minivan-manhood/

Marry Wisely, Marry Well with Dr. Ernie Baker In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo interviews Dr. Ernie Baker about his book 'Marry Wisely, Marry Well: A Blueprint for Personal Preparation'. They discuss the importance of proper marriage preparation, focusing on discipleship, the glory of God, and biblical foundations for relationships. They also discuss biblical principles to discern the character of a future spouse. Dr. Baker shares his insights on premarital counseling, the difference between singleness and having the gift of singleness, and how to build a marriage that honors God. 00:26 Introduction to Dr. Ernie Baker01:47 The Importance of Premarital Preparation 03:30 Foundations for a Godly Marriage 06:18 Wisdom and Discernment in Relationships10:07 Understanding Singleness and Marriage 17:02 Biblical Roles in Marriage 21:15 Glorifying God Through Marriage Follow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressincGrab a copy of 'Marry Wisely, Marry Well': https://shepherdpress.com/products/marry-wisely-marry-well/

Stewarding Your Body for God's Glory: Part 2In this second part of our conversation on cultivating a healthy lifestyle, Anthony Russo and John Lehman explore the distinction between fitness and health. They discuss how fitness can be a way to steward our God-given body, relating it not only to physical well-being but also to serving God with one's full potential. The conversation also offers insight into the importance of cultivating good habits from the heart, the caution against making anything an idol over God, and practical steps for addressing issues like gluttony biblically. Lastly, Lehman shares more about his journey in ministry and further helpful resources. 00:16 Distinguishing Fitness from Health 03:11 The Role of the Heart in a Healthy Lifestyle 04:32 Modern Weight Loss Trends and Biblical Perspective 07:20 Addressing Gluttony and Self-Indulgence Biblically 14:19 How to Connect and Support the Ministry 15:34 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressincGrab a copy of The Little Book on Being Healthy and Well: https://shepherdpress.com/products/the-little-book-on-being-healthy-and-well/

Stewarding Your Body for God's GloryIn this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo interviews John Lehman, author of The Little Book on Being Healthy and Well, to discuss the biblical basis for physical fitness and wellness. Emphasizing the importance of caring for one's body as part of spiritual stewardship, they explore topics such as diet, exercise, and proper sleep. Highlighting pitfalls of modern shortcuts like energy drinks and quick fixes, the conversation provides practical tips for maintaining physical fitness. Through real-life anecdotes and scriptural references this episode offers listeners straightforward advice for incorporating healthy habits into their daily routines. 00:24 Meet John Lehman: Author, Speaker, and Counselor01:45 The Importance of Being Healthy and Well03:36 John's Personal Fitness Journey06:07 Biblical Principles of Health and Fitness09:58 Scriptural Insights on Health10:37 John's Inspiration for Writing on Fitness12:13 Balancing Time and Priorities13:44 Benefits of Exercise for a Healthy Lifestyle15:27 Practical Steps to Better Health17:21 Navigating Misinformation in Diet and Exercise18:14 Closing Tips for a Healthier Lifestyle19:32 Conclusion and ResourcesFollow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressincGrab a copy of The Little Book on Being Healthy and Well: https://shepherdpress.com/products/the-little-book-on-being-healthy-and-well/

Finding God in Unmet Expectations: A Conversation with Lisa HughesIn this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo talks with author Lisa Hughes about her book 'Unmet Expectations' and how to deal with disappointment and trials in a godly manner. Lisa shares insights on reframing unwanted circumstances as God's lovingkindness. They also discuss how unmet expectations can be tools for sanctification and provide practical advice on trusting in God through these circumstances. 00:23 Meet Lisa Hughes: Author of 'Unmet Expectations'02:13 The Inspiration Behind 'Unmet Expectations'03:51 Exploring Unmet Expectations Through Scripture05:44 Common Unmet Expectations Among Women07:27 Handling Unmet Expectations: Sinful vs. Godly Responses12:26 Thinking Biblically About Unmet Expectations16:27 Avoiding Grumbling and Complaining18:20 Sanctification Through Unmet Expectations20:22 Finding Contentment in God's Presence22:31 Resources and Final ThoughtsGrab a copy of "Unmet Expectations:" https://a.co/d/6HWHTSN Follow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressinc.

God-Dependency and the Discipline of Prayer: A Conversation with Paul TautgesThis episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast features a conversation between host Anthony Russo and author Paul Tautges. They discuss Tautges' book 'Pray About Everything: Cultivating God Dependency,' which aims to challenge Christians to think biblically about prayer and their relationship with God. The discussion highlights the theme of 'God dependency,' the issue of prayerlessness in the church, practical steps for integrating prayer into church culture, and the value of approaching God through prayer in Jesus' name. Tautges shares insights on the importance of humility in prayer, the role of the Holy Spirit as our aid, and how prayer fuels missions and evangelism. The conversation encourages believers to engage in meaningful prayer, emphasizing it as a vital aspect of their relationship with God.00:18 Meet Paul Tautges01:23 Understanding the Concept of Praying about Everything02:02 The Importance of God-dependency 03:33 Addressing Prayerlessness in the Church06:17 Practical Steps to Cultivate Prayer14:41 The Role of Prayer in Missions and Evangelism16:46 Praying in Jesus' Name22:14 The Holy Spirit's Role in Our Prayers24:56 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGrab a copy of 'Pray About Everything: Cultivating God Dependency:' https://a.co/d/51z5fNA

Practical steps and encouragement for the restoration of parent-child relationships.In this second part of their conversation, host Anthony Russo speaks with Margy Tripp about practical steps and words of encouragement for the restoration process in parent-child relationships. In the discussion, Margy highlights the importance of spiritual preparation, emphasizing that reconciliation is a spiritual endeavor guided by God's presence. The podcast touches on how biblical principles can help address rebellion, encouraging parents to focus on grace, humility, and proactive engagement in conversations with their children. Margy shares real-life examples and insights from her book, motivating parents to undertake what she describes as a 'holy mission'. The episode concludes with words of encouragement, underlining that spiritual growth can emerge from trials, reinforcing the transformative power of the Gospel in family dynamics.00:00 Introduction to Margy Tripp and her book 'It's Not Too Late'00:45 Understanding Rebellion and Reconciliation02:00 Preparing for reconciliation: Embracing the true source of hope05:47 Practical Steps for Healing Conversations13:00 Real-Life Stories of Reconciliation20:29 Words of Encouragement23:47 Conclusion Grab a copy of 'It's Not Too Late': https://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-Too-Late-Relationships/dp/1633422402

In this episode of Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo talks with Margy Tripp, author of 'It's Not Too Late: Restoring Broken Relationships with Teenage and Adult Children.' The discussion focuses on understanding how the Gospel enables restoration amid broken relationships with teenage and adult children. Margy shares insights on why relying solely on the law without the Gospel's transformative power can create a disconnection between faith and practice. She emphasizes that restoring relationships starts with parents examining their own hearts and embracing a biblical approach. This discussion offers insight into practical scenarios and scriptural guidance for effective parenting. 00:18 Introduction to Margy Tripp01:15 The Inspiration Behind 'It's Not Too Late'02:19 The Problem of Rebellion in Children03:19 The Role of the Gospel in Parenting06:44 Practical Examples of Gospel-Centered Parenting12:04 Understanding Our Needs and the Gospel's Role14:53 Christ as Our Model and Hope in ParentingGrab a copy of 'It's Not Too Late': https://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-Too-Late-Relationships/dp/1633422402

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo interviews Anthony Selvaggio, pastor, author, and former attorney, about his book 'A Proverbs Driven Life.' The discussion covers the book of Proverbs and its importance in providing wisdom that applies to human life, particularly in areas such as words, work, wealth, and relationships. Selvaggio elaborates on the differences between wisdom and knowledge, how to apply wisdom in practical life situations, and how Proverbs ultimately leads one to Christ. Key themes include the application of Proverbs to speech, the balance between work and rest, insights on marriage, and the overarching pursuit of wisdom as part of a God-centered life.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:45 Understanding a Proverbs Driven Life02:51 Wisdom vs. Knowledge and Folly07:48 The Power of Words and Communication11:02 Work, Rest, and the Sovereignty of God13:36 Marriage and Noble Character19:43 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGrab a copy of 'A Proverbs Driven Life': https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/a-proverbs-driven-life/