The MikeCheck Podcast

Episode 80 - Church Planting (Featuring Josh Barlow)

Josh Barlow, a fellow pastor, shares his journey from youth ministry to planting a church. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about fulfilling a genuine spiritual need in the Lake Hopatcong area. The most rewarding part? Seeing people grasp who God is and their place in His story. With so many lost in today's world, the light of Christ is crucial. Want to learn more about the challenges and joys of church planting? Check out the full episode linked in our bio! #ChurchPlanting #YouthMinistry #FaithInAction #GospelTruth

Episode 79 - Don't Get Your Theology from Instagram

The recent controversy with Neeza Powers brings up some really important theological questions - where do we get Biblical instruction from? This episode explores the dangers of obtaining theology from social media, the importance of biblical discernment, and the role of the local church in spiritual growth. It features a discussion on recent controversies, the influence of online personalities, and practical steps for grounding faith in Scripture.

Episode 78 - Repentance (with Chris Brauns)

Unlock the secret to genuine forgiveness: why repentance isn't just about saying 'sorry,' but about transformation at the heart of the gospel. If you've ever wondered why some apologies fall flat or how true change happens in your spiritual journey, this episode is your roadmap.When Jesus commands us in Luke 17 to forgive those who repent—even seven times a day—they're emphasizing that forgiveness hinges on authentic repentance. But what exactly does repentance entail? Is it just remorse, or is there more? Chris Brauns, author of Unpacking Forgiveness and The Way of Repentance, dives deep into biblical repentance as a vital prerequisite for forgiveness, emphasizing that it's not simply about feeling sorry but turning fully toward Christ. He unpacks the biblical contrast between worldly sorrow and godly grief, illustrating this with vibrant stories from Genesis, the parables, and church history, highlighting that true repentance leads to joy rooted in God's grace.You'll discover pragmatic insights: the biblical definition of repentance as a grace-gift, how repentance shapes ongoing sanctification, and why it's essential for spiritual maturity. Chris shares practical steps to recognize sincere repentance, the importance of community and the local church in this process, and how Scripture memorization—like Psalm 130—can be transformative in moments of trials or suffering. He emphasizes that repentance is both a gift and a process, encouraging believers to see it as a joyful return to the nourishing presence of Jesus.In a culture often uncomfortable with the word 'repentance,' this episode is a clarion call to reclaim its biblical power—an invitation to view repentance not as shame but as the pathway to freedom, renewal, and joy. Whether you're fighting pride, struggling with ongoing sin, or mentoring others, understanding repentance rightly transforms everything.Get Chris Brauns’ new book, The Way of Repentance, to deepen your grasp on God's gift of turning from sin and turning to Christ. Perfect for pastors, counselors, and believers eager to experience authentic change—this episode will equip you to biblically check the unbiblical and embrace the joy of repentance.Why this works: This episode hooks listeners with the promise of unlocking a biblical pathway to forgiveness and genuine change, tapping into the universal desire for authentic spiritual growth. By highlighting practical applications, biblical stories, and the significance of repentance, it promises tangible benefits—encouraging biblical repentance as a joyful, grace-driven practice essential for a transformed life.Character Count: 3,666/4,000

Episode 77 - Healthy vs. Unhealthy Churches

Most churches today are more unbiblical than they realize — but what truly separates a healthy church from an unhealthy one? Pastor Mike and Pastor Matt dive into the radical biblical standards that define a church’s health, revealing why submission to Christ, holiness, and a faithful biblical model are non-negotiables.In this eye-opening episode, they unpack the dangers of pragmatism, emotionalism, and cultural compromise that threaten to turn churches into entertainment venues rather than spiritual havens. You'll discover why every element of worship—prayer, scripture reading, music, and leadership—must be rooted in scripture, and how neglecting these sacred principles creates chaos and confusion instead of reverence and order.If you’ve ever wondered whether your church is biblical—or how to fix it—you’ll find practical steps to evaluate, confront, and stand for biblical truth honestly. This episode is perfect for church leaders, faithful members, and Christians committed to restoring biblical integrity in their local church.Don't settle for a superficial or culturally driven church experience. Instead, discover the biblical blueprint for a thriving, faithful church that truly honors Christ—and learn how to be an agent of reform wherever you are.Rooted in Scripture, driven by the Gospel, committed to biblical order—this is the standard every church must strive for.

Episode 76 - Female Pastors?

In this episode, Mike Ruel deeply explores the biblical perspective on female pastors, addressing common arguments and misinterpretations. He emphasizes the importance of biblical authority and historical consistency in church leadership.