The Statesmen Podcast

Middle School Recap - Rack, Shack, and Benny!

In this episode of The Statesman Podcast, our students retell the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—often remembered as Rack, Shack, and Benny—and their courageous stand of faith in the fiery furnace. Through this familiar story, we are reminded of the cost and power of faithfulness. These young men chose obedience to God even when it meant facing pressure, punishment, and uncertainty. Their story teaches us that faith does not guarantee an easy path, but it does remind us that God is present with His people in the fire. As students share this retelling, listeners are encouraged to stand firm in their faith, trust God in difficult circumstances, and remember that obedience to God is always worth it—no matter the outcome.

Middle School Recap - Joseph

In this episode of The Statesman Podcast, our students retell the story of Joseph. Through their recap, we are reminded that God is at work even when circumstances seem unfair, confusing, or painful. Joseph’s story shows us that faithfulness matters in every season—whether in success or suffering. What others meant for harm, God used for good, revealing His ability to bring purpose out of difficulty and hope out of hardship. As students reflect on Joseph’s life, listeners are encouraged to trust God’s timing, remain faithful in unseen moments, and believe that God is still writing a greater story.

Middle School Recap - David and Goliath

In this episode of The Statesman Podcast, some of our middle school students bring the familiar story of David and Goliath to life by retelling it in their own words. As the students reflect on David’s trust in the Lord, we are encouraged to remember that God often works through unlikely people and ordinary moments to accomplish extraordinary purposes. Tune in to hear how the next generation is engaging with Scripture and learning that true victory comes from relying on God, not ourselves.

Good News of Great Joy

In this special Christmas episode of The Statesman Podcast, we reflect on Luke 2:8–14 and the familiar story of the angels announcing Christ’s birth to the shepherds. Though the story is well known, it still calls us to transformation today. This episode explores why God chose ordinary shepherds, what it means that Jesus is our Savior, Messiah, and Lord, and how the peace we long for is found in Christ alone. Just like the shepherds, we are invited to listen, go to Jesus, and share the good news of great joy with others. Merry Christmas from New Hope Christian Academy. May this season call you to make room for Christ and be changed by His presence.

Chapel Recap: Believing What God Says About You

In this episode of The Statesman Podcast, we unpack a powerful chapel message from Pastor Jacob Barker on the life-changing importance of identity in Christ. Too many believers live as though they are still broken, unwanted, or insignificant. But Jacob reminds us that Scripture declares something radically different: we are chosen, adopted, seated in heavenly places, ambassadors of Christ, more than conquerors, handcrafted masterpieces, and filled with the same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead. This episode challenges us to stop reinforcing the lies of the world and start speaking the truth of God’s Word over our lives. Because when we finally believe who God says we are, everything changes. Tune in and learn how to walk confidently in your royal identity — not shaped by insecurity, but grounded in Scripture, empowered by the Spirit, and sent into the world with purpose.