Flourishing Disciples

Season 8, Episode 6

I Am the True Vine Kirk Sexton/Debby DeBernardi What does it really mean to abide in Christ?  In this episode of Flourishing Disciples, Pastor Kirk Sexton and Debby DeBernardi explore Jesus’ powerful words in John 15: “I am the True Vine.” Together, they unpack the difference between striving to produce spiritual fruit and learning to live from a place of deep, relational connection with Jesus.  As the disciples walked toward Gethsemane, Jesus gave them one final image—not of effort, but of intimacy. The vine and branches remind us that transformation doesn’t come from trying harder, but from abiding more deeply.  In this conversation, you’ll discover:  * Why abiding—not achieving—is the center of spiritual growth   * How the “trap door” of performance can quietly shape our faith   * What it means to receive the life of Christ as your own   * Why fruitfulness is the natural outcome of connection, not the goal   You’ll also be guided into a simple, meaningful practice to help you abide in Christ throughout the week.  Whether you’re feeling spiritually dry, stuck on the “hamster wheel,” or longing for deeper intimacy with God, this episode invites you to slow down, remain, and receive.  “Apart from me, you can do nothing.” — John 15:5

Season 8, Episode 5

I AM the Way the Truth and the Life Pastor Kirk Sexton/Debby DeBernardi In this episode of the Flourishing Disciples Podcast, Pastor Kirk Sexton is joined by teacher Debby DeBernardi to explore one of Jesus’ most profound declarations in John 14. As Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure, He comforts them with the promise that He Himself is the way to the Father, the truth that guides our lives, and the source of eternal life. Together, Kirk and Debby reflect on what it means to trust Jesus relationally, follow His way in a confusing world, and experience the transforming life that comes from abiding in Him. This conversation invites listeners to deepen their relationship with Christ and take practical steps toward becoming flourishing, discerning disciples.

Season 8, Episode 4

Resurrection and Life Pastor Kirk Sexton/Debby DeBernardi In this episode of Flourishing Disciples Podcast, host Pastor Kirk Sexton sits down with teacher Debby DeBernardi to explore Jesus’ powerful claim in John 11: “I Am the Resurrection and the Life.” Through the story of Lazarus, they reflect on how grief and loss reveal what we truly believe about God and how Jesus invites us to move from trusting a doctrine about resurrection to trusting Him as the Resurrection. What does it mean to experience resurrection life even now? Join the conversation as we consider how faith in Christ brings hope in suffering, freedom from fear, and new life for everyday disciples.

Season 8, Episode 3

Gate and Good Shepherd Kirk Sexton/Debby DeBernardi Kirk and Debby continue the conversation by unpacking what it means for Jesus to be both the Gate and the Good Shepherd. Through thoughtful and conversational reflection, they explore how His protection and sacrifice bring both assurance and challenge.

Season 8, Episode 2

Light of the World Kirk Sexton/Debby DeBernardi This week on Flourishing Disciples, Kirk Sexton and Debby DeBernardi explore Jesus’ powerful declaration: “I am the Light of the world.” Set during the Feast of Tabernacles, Jesus’ claim confronts spiritual blindness and invites us into a life of discernment, transformation, and obedient following. What does it mean to move from intellectual belief to lived faith? How does His light both expose and heal? Join us as we consider how flourishing disciples admit their blindness, walk in the Light, and shine together in a dark world.