The Greg Laurie Show

Revival, Redemption & Storytelling: A Conversation with Andy Erwin on Faith, Film, and the Power of Testimony

What happens when art, film, faith, and real-life transformation collide? In this inspiring episode, filmmaker Andy Erwin sits down with pastor Greg Laurie for a candid conversation about the intersection of creativity, storytelling, and spiritual revival. Greg Laurie—whose own life inspired the hit film "Jesus Revolution"—shares never-before-heard stories behind the making of the movie, his early love for the arts, and how testimony and cinematic storytelling can open hearts to life-changing truth. They explore the crucial role of authentic narrative, why emotion matters in both sermons and screenplays, and how film can be the "opening hook" that invites deeper engagement with the gospel. Highlights include: * The unforgettable moment Greg Laurie guided 50,000 people in the Lord’s Prayer for a pivotal movie scene, revealing how spontaneous acts of faith become cinematic gold. * A behind-the-scenes look at how true stories are adapted for film—with all their messiness and miracles—and why embracing artistic license can help reach a new generation. * Greg Laurie's moving reflections on mentorship from Billy Graham and the importance of humility, authenticity, and community in a life of faith and public leadership. * Candid discussion about the new wave of baptisms and spiritual awakening sparked by the Jesus Revolution film, pointing to a surprising, ongoing revival in today's culture. From poignant childhood memories to powerful lessons on integrity, loss, and the unchanging message of the Gospel, this episode is a masterclass on the power of story to connect, heal, and transform. Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation filled with wisdom, humor, and hope. Subscribe now for more behind-the-scenes stories and real-life inspiration from the storytellers shaping our world. CHAPTERS: 00:00 We've Been Disney-fied: Chasing "Happily Ever After" 00:43 How the Jesus Revolution Movie Began Over a Burger 03:28 The Church and Film: From Skepticism to Embracing Storytelling 04:13 Childhood Escapes: Drawing, Art, and a Letter from Schulz 06:26 Movies That Shaped Me: From Disney to The Godfather 08:58 Storytelling as Evangelism: Hooks, Emotions, and Lasting Impact 10:40 The Gospel Hidden in Zombie Movies: “Warm Bodies” Analogy 13:07 Testimonies as Powerful Evangelistic Tools 16:01 Life Imitates Art: Baptism Movement Sparked by Film 17:55 From Laugh to Faith: An Irish Influencer's Movie Conversion 21:07 Why Gen Z Is Hungry for Spiritual Awakening 24:20 Behind-the-Scenes Memories Filming Jesus Revolution 28:28 Meeting Billy Graham: Letters, Hats, and Humility Lessons 34:05 Billy Graham’s Secret Sauce: Fame, Friendship, and Roast Beef 39:10 Grief, Authenticity, and the Value of Friendship in Ministry 44:40 Behind the Scenes of “Imagine 2”: Confronting Broken Happily Ever Afters 48:34 Desert Island Films: Greg Laurie’s Movie Favorites Revealed Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com [https://www.lifeaudio.com/] and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us [https://www.lifeaudio.com/contact-us].

Are God’s Promises to Israel Still Active? | A Conversation with Joel Rosenberg

Has God abandoned Israel—or is the story of His chosen people far from over? In this thought-provoking episode of The Greg Laurie Podcast, Pastor Greg Laurie sits down with best-selling author, Middle East expert, and Bible prophecy teacher Joel Rosenberg for an honest, often humorous deep-dive into one of the most hotly debated questions in Christianity: Have the Jews been replaced by the Church as God’s chosen people? Together, Greg Laurie and Joel cut through centuries of theological debate, exploring “replacement theology,” the modern rebirth of Israel, and why understanding biblical prophecy is more relevant—and controversial—than ever. Drawing from real-world encounters with global leaders, first-hand stories from modern Israel, and fresh research into prophecy’s place in today’s world, this conversation reveals why the question of Israel matters for every believer. You’ll discover: * Why so many pastors shy away from prophecy—and why Joel believes the Church can’t afford to ignore it. * The explosive rise in Jewish believers in Jesus, and why this surge is reshaping what it means to be part of God’s family. * How to share the Gospel with Jewish friends in a way that’s loving, respectful, and rooted in Scripture—not centuries-old stereotypes. Whether you’re wrestling with big questions about God’s promises, fascinated by the intersection of current events and biblical prophecy, or simply seeking wisdom for sharing your faith cross-culturally, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and practical insights. Don’t miss this challenging—and hope-filled—conversation that will leave you rethinking what it means to be part of God’s unfolding story. Subscribe for more conversations like this, exploring faith, culture, and the tough questions that shape our world. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com [https://www.lifeaudio.com/] and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us [https://www.lifeaudio.com/contact-us].

Faith Over Fear in the Age of AI: Finding Hope, Connection, & God in Perilous Times

What if the greatest threat to your soul isn’t outside—but hidden within your phone? In this thought-provoking episode, Pastor Greg Laurie exposes the perilous pursuit of self, the rise of artificial intelligence as a substitute for real relationships, and the crisis of faith facing our generation. Kicking things off with a gripping, real-life account of chaos at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner and an assassination attempt that rattled the nation, Pastor Greg draws a direct line between the anxiety saturating our headlines and deeper spiritual longings that technology can never satisfy. You’ll also hear a fascinating conversation between legendary music producer Rick Rubin and his podcast guest on Gen Z’s unexpected hunger for spiritual truth. This episode dives deep into: * The dangerous “main character syndrome” driven by social media and why the worship of self has left Gen Z more anxious and lonely than ever before. * The heartbreaking story of a teenager’s search for solace in an AI chatbot, and a sobering call to parents about the hidden risks of digital companionship. * Why ancient wisdom from Psalm 27 and the teachings of Jesus offer lasting hope and courage for anyone facing fear, uncertainty, or the pressures of modern life. * From practical advice on guarding your mind and heart to an inspiring reminder of the quiet spiritual revolution stirring among young people, you’ll be challenged and encouraged to anchor your identity in something far greater than technology or self. Ready to cultivate unshakeable faith in turbulent times? Subscribe for more conversations like this, and join us in exploring where real hope, resilience, and meaning can be found. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Searching for Meaning Beyond Technology 02:13 Shannon Bream’s Firsthand Account of White House Chaos 04:12 Prayer and Preaching: The Christian’s Secret Weapons 06:18 God’s Plans: “Thoughts of Peace, Not of Evil” 08:10 Main Character Syndrome and Self‑Obsession in Culture 10:09 What “Deny Yourself” Really Means 14:15 Dangers of AI Companions for Young People 16:07 Tragic Story: Teen’s Suicide After AI Chatbot Relationship 18:11 Parents: Why You Must Snoop in Your Kids’ Digital Lives 20:12 Seeking Divine Intelligence Over Artificial Intelligence 21:00 Gen Z’s Nostalgia for the 1990s Explained 24:01 Rick Rubin on Gen Z’s “Quiet Revolution” Toward Faith 27:00 America’s Top Fears and the Power of Stress 30:13 “Face Your Giants”: Overcoming Addiction & Adversity 32:03 Choose Faith Over Fear: Psalm 27 Insights 35:15 Whale Protects Marine Biologist From Shark—God’s Unexpected Providence 38:39 The One Thing: Jesus, Not Main Character Syndrome 39:39 “Seek First the Kingdom”—Finding True Balance 40:05 Invitation to a Relationship With God Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com [https://www.lifeaudio.com/] and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us [https://www.lifeaudio.com/contact-us].

ENCORE | An Interview with Michael Franzese on Redemption, Faith, and Family

What happens when one of the most notorious mobsters in American history experiences a radical encounter with faith? In this gripping episode, Greg Laurie sits down with former Colombo crime family underboss Michael Franzese for an uncensored conversation about the Mafia, redemption, and the impossible power of second chances. Raised in the shadow of organized crime, Michael Franzese lived at the epicenter of the mob world—rubbing shoulders with legendary bosses, amassing wealth and notoriety, and ultimately landing on Fortune magazine’s list of the “50 Most Powerful Mafia Bosses.” But after years of violence, betrayal, and prison, his life took a dramatic turn: a solitary Bible in the darkest moments of his incarceration led him on an unexpected journey toward Jesus Christ. Explore: * The making—and unmaking—of a mobster, from growing up with Sonny Franzese to becoming a “made man” in a secret Halloween ceremony. * The high price of loyalty, the devastating costs of crime on family, and the shocking story of walking away from “the life”, despite deadly consequences. * A raw account of hitting rock bottom in solitary confinement, wrestling with God, and discovering hope in Scripture that changed everything. * The incredible redemption of unlikely figures, including Michael Franzese’s reconciliation with his own family, and how the power of prayer can reach anyone—even the hardest hearts You’ll also hear candid reflections on masculinity, fatherhood, and what it really means to be a “man’s man” in a broken world, plus why Hollywood both glamorizes and misrepresents the Mafia lifestyle. Whether you’re fascinated by organized crime, inspired by true stories of faith, or searching for hope for someone you love, this conversation will challenge what you thought possible—and encourage you to never stop believing in transformation. Subscribe for more unforgettable conversations that prove no one is beyond the reach of grace. CHAPTERS: 00:00 The Mobster Who Became a Believer: Introduction 02:11 Michael’s Early Memories of Mob Life 07:00 Choosing the Mafia: Family, Loyalty, and Sacrifice 10:21 Behind the Scenes: Realism in Mob Movies 15:29 The Mafia Initiation: “Born Again” into Cosa Nostra 17:45 Surviving When All Others Didn’t: Why Michael Lived 20:15 Leaving the Life: Family Devastation and Hard Choices 24:47 Betrayed by My Father: Facing Death in the Mob 29:04 Solitary Confinement and a Bible: Breaking Point 35:59 Proverbs 16:7—Finding Peace with Enemies in Prison 41:21 Masculinity and Jesus: The Ultimate Man 44:50 The Crisis of Fatherhood & Masculinity Today 46:33 Camille’s Faith: The Strength Behind Michael 48:32 Advice to Young Men Drawn to Crime 53:09 Sonny Franzese’s Faith and Forgiveness 54:41 No One Is Beyond the Reach of God 56:20 Surprising Conversions: From Mobsters to Believers Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com [https://www.lifeaudio.com/] and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us [https://www.lifeaudio.com/contact-us].

Unlock the Power of Prayer: Pastor Greg Laurie on the Lord’s Prayer, Forgiveness, and God’s Will

Do you remember the first time you truly prayed? In this episode of The Greg Laurie Show, Pastor Greg Laurie opens up about the powerful, often overlooked practice of prayer—and why it can transform your relationship with God and your everyday life. Drawing from his own journey as a new believer and his interactions with spiritual giants like Billy Graham, Pastor Greg Laurie shares candid stories, biblical insights, and down-to-earth wisdom to help you move beyond rote words and genuinely connect with your Heavenly Father. Centering the conversation around the Lord’s Prayer, Pastor Greg Laurie unpacks its role as both a prayer for all occasions and a practical template for your daily communication with God. You’ll hear about: * How the Lord’s Prayer shapes your view of God—not as some distant force, but as a loving Father who runs to embrace His children, even in their brokenness. * The surprising reasons why many believers don’t pray as much as they want to—and how shifting your priorities can open the door to a more vibrant faith. * What to do when God seems silent, including a memorable framework: If the request is wrong, God says “no”; if the timing is wrong, He says “slow”; if you are wrong, He says “grow”; but if everything’s right, God says “go.” Whether you’re battling doubt, longing for deeper purpose, or hungry to experience real spiritual change, this episode reminds us: prayer isn’t about getting our will in Heaven, but welcoming God’s will on earth—starting with our own hearts. Ready to rediscover the wonder and life-changing power of prayer? Subscribe for more conversations like this, and let your journey with God grow richer, one honest prayer at a time. CHAPTERS: 00:00 God Is Not an AI Search Engine 01:19 Pastor Greg’s First Answered Prayer Story 02:27 Emergency Lord’s Prayer—A Pilot’s Crisis 04:38 Praying the Lord’s Prayer at March for Life 05:41 Why Memorize the Lord’s Prayer? 07:47 Social Media vs. Time Spent in Prayer 09:45 Do We Really Believe Prayer Works? 12:49 Jesus Teaches the Lord’s Prayer: The Ultimate Model 13:37 God as Father—The Prodigal Son Parallel 19:46 "Father Knows Best"—What Sets God Apart 22:20 The “Hallowed Be Your Name” Lifestyle Test 23:53 Praying for Christ’s Return and Loved Ones’ Salvation 29:39 Never Stop Praying for Those Far from God 32:12 Wrestling With God’s Will—Jonah and Jesus' Struggles 34:42 Prayer Isn’t Getting My Will in Heaven 37:05 "Give Us This Day": Total Dependence on God 39:14 Whose Cookies Are You Eating? The Cookie Parable 41:48 "Forgive Us"—Power and Challenge of Forgiveness 44:49 The Destructive Power of Unforgiveness 46:21 Temptation Is So Tempting—How to Pray Against It 49:53 Ask, Seek, Knock: The Persistence Principle 53:21 Can Nonbelievers Pray? The Sinner’s Prayer Invitation 55:53 Closing Prayer and Invitation to New Believers Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com [https://www.lifeaudio.com/] and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us [https://www.lifeaudio.com/contact-us].