Christ in You: Conversations on Spiritual Formation

Why We Baptize Our Children

Infant baptism is one of the most common questions people ask when they visit Redeemer—and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode of Christ In You, Kendra and Kyler share their personal journeys from Baptist and non-denominational backgrounds into a covenantal understanding of baptism. Together, they explore why Redeemer practices infant baptism, how covenant theology shapes their reading of Scripture, and why this issue matters without becoming a test of Christian faithfulness. They discuss: * Infant baptism in church history * The difference between baptism as a sign and seal versus a means of salvation * How covenant theology connects the Old and New Testaments * The relationship between circumcision and baptism * What it means for children to belong to the covenant community * Why infant baptism is ultimately a picture of God's grace and initiative * How Christians can disagree on baptism while remaining united in Christ Whether you're exploring membership at Redeemer, wrestling through your own convictions, or simply curious about why different churches practice baptism differently, this conversation offers a thoughtful and gracious introduction to the theological framework behind infant baptism. Above all, Kendra and Kyler remind listeners that our ultimate hope is not in a particular baptismal practice, but in the grace of God that saves, sustains, and keeps His people. Mentioned on the Show Next Step: Read and reflect on the key covenant passages discussed in this episode. Ask yourself: * How does the Bible tell one unified story of God's redemption? * What does it mean to belong to God's covenant people? * How do God's promises shape the way I think about faith, family, and the church? If you have questions, continue the conversation with a pastor, elder, or trusted member of the Redeemer community. Key Scriptures: * Genesis 3:15 * Genesis 15 * Genesis 17:7–10 * Acts 8:26–39 (Ethiopian Eunuch) * Acts 16 (Philippian Jailer) * Romans 5:12–21 * 1 Corinthians 7:14 * Galatians 3:9, 14, 29 * Colossians 2:11–12 * 2 Corinthians 5:21 Recommended Resources: * What Is Reformed Theology? [https://a.co/d/06neo5u8] by R.C. Sproul * The Westminster Confession of Faith [https://thewestminsterstandard.org/the-westminster-confession/] (Chapter 28) * Westminster Larger Catechism [https://thewestminsterstandard.org/westminster-larger-catechism/] (Questions 161–170) * Westminster Shorter Catechism [https://thewestminsterstandard.org/westminster-shorter-catechism/] (Questions 94–95) * Heidelberg Catechism [https://www.heidelberg-catechism.com/pdf/lords-days/Heidelberg-Catechism.pdf] (Questions 69–74) * Redeemer Membership & Baptism [https://redeemersd.org/encinitas/membership/]  Christ In You: Conversations on Spiritual Formation is a podcast from Redeemer Presbyterian Church in San Diego, exploring how the gospel forms us in the everyday rhythms of life. Kendra Dahl is the Director of Women’s Ministry at Redeemer, and Kyler Wright is the Pastor of Spiritual Formation. Together, they host conversations with pastors and ministry leaders to help believers grow in Christ. To learn more about Redeemer and find additional resources, visit www.redeemersd.org

Build a G.O.S.P.E.L. Rule of Life for the Summer

Summer often disrupts our normal rhythms—bringing both unique opportunities and unique challenges for spiritual formation. In this episode of Christ In You, Kendra and Kyler explore what it looks like to build a G.O.S.P.E.L. rule of life for the summer season. Together, they discuss: * Why summer can feel both restful and chaotic * What a “rule of life” actually is (and isn’t) * How the gospel shapes our habits and rhythms * The difference between formation and self-improvement * Practical ways to cultivate habits around prayer, Scripture, hospitality, rest, and generosity this summer * Why community and accountability matter for spiritual growth * Common pitfalls like legalism, overbuilding, and perfectionism * How to create simple, sustainable rhythms that help us abide in Christ Throughout the conversation, Kendra and Kyler emphasize that spiritual formation is not about earning God’s favor, but about creating intentional space to rest in the finished work of Christ and be transformed by His grace. Whether your summer feels packed and chaotic or slow and spacious, this episode will encourage you to approach the season intentionally—asking how the Lord may want to form you in the everyday rhythms of life. Mentioned on the Show Next Step:Take 10 minutes this week to prayerfully reflect on the GOSPEL framework: * Give * Open * Sabbath * Pray * Engage * Listen Ask: Where might the Lord be inviting me to grow this summer? Choose one or two small, concrete practices and share them with someone who can encourage and walk with you. Recommended Resources: * Word Before World by Gretchen Saffles * Gospel Rule of Life Workshop - Selected Resources [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fBBzPuOFRx6h5xp64Hh7dIv0-_sWwA7g/view?usp=sharing] * 3 Rs of Heart Renewal [https://redeemersd.org/wp-content/uploads/Gospel-and-the-Heart-Sermon-Series-Guidebook-1.pdf] * New Growth Press Bible Studies [https://newgrowthpress.com/small-group-study-resources/christian-bible-study-books/] — Daniel by Paul Kim [https://newgrowthpress.com/small-group-study-resources/christian-bible-study-books/daniel-standing-firm-in-adversity/?srsltid=AfmBOorH1UstEP5iJYqy54s94qVfDwfDopeauu57Jy32nhxheR0upG2k] * Moody Publishers - Romans 8 study for kids [https://www.moodypublishers.com/god-is-for-us] / for adults [https://www.moodypublishers.com/if-god-is-for-us] * She Reads Truth / Kids Read Truth Studies [https://www.shopshereadstruth.com/products/this-is-the-gospel-womens-and-kids-bundle?_pos=1&_fid=e6eed4362&_ss=c] Christ In You: Conversations on Spiritual Formation is a podcast from Redeemer Presbyterian Church in San Diego, exploring how the gospel forms us in the everyday rhythms of life. Kendra Dahl is the Director of Women’s Ministry at Redeemer, and Kyler Wright is the Pastor of Spiritual Formation. Together, they host conversations with pastors and ministry leaders to help believers grow in Christ. To learn more about Redeemer and find additional resources, visit www.redeemersd.org

The Sabbath Is More Than Self-Care with Peter Nelson

Our culture talks constantly about burnout, balance, and self-care—but is that what Sabbath is really about? In this episode of Christ In You, Kendra and Kyler are joined by Pastor Peter Nelson to explore the biblical meaning of Sabbath and why it matters for spiritual formation today. Together, they discuss: * Why Sabbath is more than productivity recovery * How rest exposes what we truly believe about God and ourselves * The connection between Sabbath, worship, and trust * Why corporate worship is central—not optional—to Christian formation * How modern busyness forms us toward self-reliance * The challenge of practicing Sabbath in different seasons of life Drawing from Scripture, Hebrews 4, the Heidelberg Catechism, and their own experiences, they reframe Sabbath not as a burden or performance, but as an invitation to rest in the finished work of Christ. Whether you feel exhausted, spiritually numb, overbusy, or simply unsure what Sabbath is supposed to look like, this conversation offers a gospel-centered vision of rest that goes far beyond self-care. Mentioned on the Show Next Step: Set aside intentional time this week to prayerfully reflect using the 3 Rs of Heart Renewal: * Reveal: What does my practice of rest reveal about what I believe? * Repent: Where am I striving instead of trusting God? * Rejoice: What would it look like to rest in Christ with joy this week? Key Scriptures: * Genesis 2:1–3 * Exodus 20:8–11 * Deuteronomy 5:12–15 * Psalm 121 * Hebrews 3–4 * Exodus 16 * Numbers 13–14 Recommended Resources: * Heidelberg Catechism [https://www.heidelberg-catechism.com/pdf/lords-days/Heidelberg-Catechism.pdf] (Q&A 103) * Westminster Larger Catechism [https://thewestminsterstandard.org/westminster-larger-catechism/] (Q&A 115–121) * 3 Rs of Heart Renewal [https://redeemersd.org/wp-content/uploads/Gospel-and-the-Heart-Sermon-Series-Guidebook-1.pdf] Christ In You: Conversations on Spiritual Formation is a podcast from Redeemer Presbyterian Church in San Diego, exploring how the gospel forms us in the everyday rhythms of life. Kendra Dahl is the Director of Women’s Ministry at Redeemer, and Kyler Wright is the Pastor of Spiritual Formation. Together, they host conversations with pastors and ministry leaders to help believers grow in Christ. To learn more about Redeemer and find additional resources, visit www.redeemersd.org

What’s Forming You? How Scripture Shapes Us

How does God actually use His Word to form us? In this episode of Christ In You, Kendra and Kyler open up about the passages of Scripture that have profoundly shaped their spiritual lives—both in this season and over many years of following Jesus. Together, they reflect on: * What it means to ask, “What’s forming you?” * Passages they continually return to in difficult seasons * Scriptures that exposed pride, shame, envy, and self-reliance * How the gospel reframes obedience, repentance, and worship * Why reading the Bible is meant to lead us into deeper dependence on Christ Along the way, they discuss Romans 12, Psalm 73, Psalm 34, Luke 7, Esther, and James—sharing personal stories of how God has used His Word to comfort, confront, and transform them. Whether you feel stuck in your Bible reading or simply want encouragement to slow down and engage Scripture more deeply, this conversation is an invitation to taste and see the goodness of God through His Word. Mentioned on the Show Next Step: Ask someone this week: “How is God’s Word shaping you right now?” Then share a passage that has been meaningful in your own life. Key Scriptures: * Esther 1–2 * Romans 12:1–2 * Psalm 73 * Psalm 34 * Luke 7:36–50 * James 1:21–22 Recommended Resources: * 3 Rs of Heart Renewal [https://redeemersd.org/wp-content/uploads/Gospel-and-the-Heart-Sermon-Series-Guidebook-1.pdf] Christ In You: Conversations on Spiritual Formation is a podcast from Redeemer Presbyterian Church in San Diego, exploring how the gospel forms us in the everyday rhythms of life. Kendra Dahl is the Director of Women’s Ministry at Redeemer, and Kyler Wright is the Pastor of Spiritual Formation. Together, they host conversations with pastors and ministry leaders to help believers grow in Christ. To learn more about Redeemer and find additional resources, visit www.redeemersd.org

The Holy Spirit, Miracles, and the Church Today with Paul Kim

The book of Acts is filled with powerful moments—miracles, bold witness, and the visible work of the Holy Spirit. But how should Christians today understand these events? In this episode of Christ In You, Kendra and Kyler are joined by Pastor Paul Kim to explore the role of the Holy Spirit in Acts and how it shapes our expectations for the Christian life today. Together, they discuss: * Why spiritual gifts can be confusing or divisive * The difference between continuationist and cessationist perspectives * What Acts shows us about the Spirit’s role in the early church * How to think about miracles, tongues, and prophecy today * Why the primary work of the Spirit is to point us to Christ Rather than chasing extraordinary experiences, this conversation reorients us to the Spirit’s ongoing work—forming Christ in us through ordinary means of grace. As we go through the book of Acts as a church, we hope this episode will help you see the beauty, power, and everyday reality of the Spirit’s work in your life. Next Step: Take time this week to pray through Ephesians 5:18–20. Ask God to fill you with His Spirit, and look for His work in the ordinary rhythms of worship, gratitude, and community. Key Scriptures: * Acts 1:8 * Acts 2 (Pentecost) * Romans 8 * Ephesians 5:18–20 * John 14 Christ In You: Conversations on Spiritual Formation is a podcast from Redeemer Presbyterian Church in San Diego, exploring how the gospel forms us in the everyday rhythms of life. Kendra Dahl is the Director of Women’s Ministry at Redeemer, and Kyler Wright is the Pastor of Spiritual Formation. Together, they host conversations with pastors and ministry leaders to help believers grow in Christ. To learn more about Redeemer and find additional resources, visit www.redeemersd.org