Unapologetic from SBU

Ep. 61 - Redford Division of Christian Ministry Insights w/Dr. Matt Kimbrough

Join Brandt Merritt and Jonathon Woodyard as we explore the impactful work of Dr. Matt Kimbrough, division chair and faculty member in the Courts Redford Division of Christian Ministry. Discover his journey from student to professor, the innovative programs at Redford, and how they are preparing students for ministry and church leadership in a changing world. As an SBU alum, Dr. Kimbrough shares his passion for the university and the work it does in shaping lives of the next generation. We also preview summer activities and the upcoming SBC Annual Meeting in Orlando. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of the Guests 08:01 Summer Plans and Academic Responsibilities 14:03 Matt Kimbrough's Journey to SBU 19:01 Teaching Philosophy and Student Engagement 24:07 Redford School's Program Developments 27:51 The Legacy of Redford and Its Impact 32:03 Addressing the Need for Pastoral Leadership 33:55 Future Initiatives and Conferences 37:02 Encouragement for Spiritual Growth

Ep. 60 - Spring 2026 Memories and Previewing Study on Romans

Brandt Merritt and Jonathon Woodyard look back on some of the highlights from the Spring 2026 semester at SBU, including chapel speakers, student life events and the spring Board of Trustees meeting. They then spend some time discussing Paul's letter to the Romans, as Jonathon plans to introduce a yearlong study of the book during the 2026-2027 school year. The study would then culminate in a study abroad trip to Rome in Summer 2027. Brandt and Jonathon share personal insights into Romans and how it has helped shape their life and theology. Chapters 03:26 Campus Events and Community Engagement 06:45 Innovations in Health Sciences Education 09:31 Future Plans for Biblical Studies and Worldview 12:47 Preparing for the Next Academic Year 13:40 Exploring Romans: A Journey to Italy 19:26 The Significance of Romans in Christian Theology 24:38 Understanding Justification and the Gospel 31:12 The Transformative Power of Romans 35:01 Connecting Paul with the Early Church 37:49 Looking Ahead: Future Discussions and Events Keywords Romans, Bible study, theology, Christian faith, seminary, biblical studies, church history, justification, salvation, Christian living

Ep. 59 - Student Interview with FCA President Ben Stelken

Join Brandt Merritt and Jonathon Woodyard as they explore senior Ben Stelken's journey from a non-Christian background to a committed follower of Christ, his leadership on campus, and his plans for the future in physical therapy. This episode offers insights into faith development, student leadership, and balancing athletics with academics. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and icebreaker 07:07 Ben's Journey to SBU and Faith Exploration 17:45 Leadership Roles and Community Engagement 22:48 Academic Pursuits and Future Plans Keywords faith journey, student leadership, physical therapy, campus life, Christian faith, college students, FCA, SBU, student athlete, spiritual growth

Ep. 58 - Shane Pruitt on Cultural Apologetics and Reaching the Next Generation

Next Gen leader Shane Pruitt of the North American Mission Board joins Brandt Merritt and Jonathon Woodyard in an engaging conversation about how to address current cultural challenges and the lies that Christians are prone to believe in today's age. They recap Shane's visit to SBU and his conversations with students, while also discussing current books that they are reading. You won't want to miss this episode with one of the top Christian voices speaking to young people (and the church at large) about how to reach our culture for Christ and spread the truth of God's word. Chapters 00:00 Engaging the Next Generation: Challenges and Strategies 02:38 Understanding Happiness vs. Joy in Christian Life 05:25 The Role of the Church in Cultural Conversations 08:30 The Importance of Biblical Truth in Modern Issues 11:32 The Power of Personal Testimonies and Community Engagement 14:31 Future Directions Resources * The Nine Lies Christians Believe - https://www.waterbrookmultnomah.com/books/567890/nine-lies-christians-believe [https://www.waterbrookmultnomah.com/books/567890/nine-lies-christians-believe] * Rosaria Butterfield's Work on Cultural Apologetics - https://rosariabutterfield.com/ [https://rosariabutterfield.com/] * Not My Jesus Bible Study by Lifeway - https://www.lifeway.com/en/shop/not-my-jesus-bible-study-P005123456 [https://www.lifeway.com/en/shop/not-my-jesus-bible-study-P005123456] * The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self by Carl Truman - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XYZ1234

Ep. 57 - Campus Event Updates and Discussion on Military Service

Jonathon Woodyard returns to the podcast after a stint of military commitments as an Army chaplain, joining Brandt Merritt to talk about recent and upcoming campus events. They spend some time recapping Jonathon's time in military service and some perspectives on the beginning of the U.S. conflict with Iran. They also discuss the SEC basketball championship game between Mizzou and Kentucky.  Chapters 00:00 Chaplain School and Military Training 07:07 Military Engagement in South Carolina 18:13 Tensions and Rumors of War with Iran 22:54 Military Security Measures During Tensions 28:50 Campus Events and Spring Break Missions 29:17 Upcoming Campus Events and Trips