The Ordinary Christian Podcast

Craig Thompson
  • 4.9 (29)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

A podcast dedicated to real people like you, seeking to live out your Christian faith in the ordinary aspects of everyday life.

  1. Episode 148: The Love Language that Matters Most with Gary Chapman

    4D AGO

    Episode 148: The Love Language that Matters Most with Gary Chapman

    In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig interviews Dr. Gary Chapman, renowned author of ‘The Five Love Languages.’ They discuss Chapman’s extensive experience in marriage and family ministry, the importance of understanding love languages, and insights from his new book, ‘The Love Language That Matters Most.’ The conversation emphasizes empathy, communication, and the attitude of Christ in relationships, providing practical advice for couples seeking to strengthen their marriages. Takeaways Gary Chapman has been in marriage ministry for over 50 years.The Five Love Languages concept helps couples understand each other’s emotional needs.Empathy is crucial for effective communication in relationships.Understanding personality types can enhance how love languages are expressed.The attitude of Christ should guide how spouses treat each other.Marriages require effort and growth; they don’t just happen.Asking follow-up questions can deepen understanding between partners.Love languages can apply to all close relationships, not just romantic ones.It’s important to love unconditionally, even when feeling unloved.Couples should read and discuss marriage books together to foster growth.Sound Bites “You can love an unloved spouse.”“Empathy is key in communication.”“You can grow in your relationship.”Chapters 00:00Introduction to Gary Chapman and His Work 02:54The Five Love Languages Explained 05:43The Impact of Love Languages on Relationships 09:02Expanding the Love Languages Concept 11:46Personal Experiences with Love Languages 14:50The New Book: The Love Language That Matters Most 17:51Understanding Sensitivity in Love Languages 20:39The Importance of Unconditional Love 23:46Influencing Your Spouse Positively 26:46Final Thoughts and Reflections 28:59The Importance of Love Over Leadership 30:13Transformative Love in Marriage 32:58The Power of Servant Leadership 38:01The Art of Follow-Up Questions 42:13Empathy in Relationships 45:14Understanding Personality Types 47:52The Key to a Lasting Marriage 53:28Debunking Love Language Myths

    56 min
  2. Episode 147: Reaching Men Through the Outdoors with Bryant Sims

    FEB 12

    Episode 147: Reaching Men Through the Outdoors with Bryant Sims

    In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Bryant Sims, a former pastor and current employee of the South Carolina Baptist Convention. They discuss Bryant’s unique approach to evangelism through outdoor activities, particularly squirrel hunting, and how he has successfully integrated these interests into church outreach and men’s ministry. The conversation highlights the importance of building relationships, contextualizing ministry efforts, and being intentional in sharing the gospel. Takeaways Bryant’s journey began with mentorship from men in his church.Squirrel hunting became a unique avenue for evangelism.Innovative men’s ministry events can lead to significant church growth.Building relationships through shared interests is key to outreach.Contextualization is essential for effective ministry.Intentionality in evangelism can lead to transformative conversations.Outdoor activities can serve as a platform for sharing the gospel.Discipleship requires deeper engagement beyond initial outreach.Investing in relationships is crucial for long-term ministry success.Opportunities for the gospel can arise in everyday situations.Sound Bites “I killed a bunch of squirrels and we told a lot of people about Jesus.”“We saw about 300% growth in the first eight years.”“We don’t care where these guys go to church after our tournament.”“You’ve got to meet other men where they are.”“It’s that hole in the roof philosophy.”Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bryant Sims and His Journey  02:59 Pastoral Ministry and Early Experiences  05:59 Innovative Men’s Ministry: Squirrel Hunting and Evangelism  08:59 Building Relationships Through Outdoor Activities  11:58 The Impact of Member-Guest Events  15:11 Squirrel Hunting: A Unique Approach to Outreach  17:55 Gospel Conversations in the Outdoors  21:16 Contextualization in Ministry  24:13 Investing in Relationships and Discipleship  28:07 The Importance of Intentionality in Evangelism  30:49 Conclusion: Embracing Opportunities for the Gospel

    41 min
  3. Episode 146: Overcoming Hurdles to Adoption with the Doweys and Lifeline Children's Services

    FEB 5

    Episode 146: Overcoming Hurdles to Adoption with the Doweys and Lifeline Children's Services

    In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson discusses international adoption with the Dowey family and representatives from Lifeline Children’s Services. They explore the challenges and joys of the adoption process, the impact of political decisions on international adoptions, and the importance of advocacy for families looking to adopt. The Dowey family’s personal journey highlights the emotional and logistical complexities of adoption, while Lifeline provides insights into their mission and the current state of adoption in Haiti. Takeaways International adoption can be a long and complex journey.Lifeline Children’s Services focuses on gospel-driven child welfare.The Dowey family has been on their adoption journey since 2012.Political decisions can significantly impact international adoptions.Families should be prepared for potential delays in the adoption process.Advocacy is crucial for families navigating adoption challenges.Children in need of adoption often come from difficult backgrounds.The Dowey family emphasizes the importance of faith during their journey.There are differences between domestic and international adoption processes.Support from the community can make a difference in adoption outcomes.Important Links Lifeline Children’s ServicesPresidential Proclamation 10998 on Restricting and Limiting Entry of Foreign NationalsBaptist Press Article on the Dowey’s JourneyThe South Carolina Foster Parent AssociationChapters 00:00Introduction to International Adoption 03:07The Dowey Family’s Adoption Journey 05:29Understanding Lifeline Children’s Services 08:39Challenges in the Adoption Process 11:32The Impact of Political Decisions on Adoption 14:22The Dowey’s Match and Waiting Period 17:45Current Political Realities Affecting Adoption 20:43Advocacy and Support for Adoption 23:43Differences Between Domestic and International Adoption 26:31Conclusion and Resources for Interested Families AI show notes are experimental. Did you find them useful?

    1h 3m
  4. Episode 145: A Few Tips for Learning and Applying God's Word

    JAN 23

    Episode 145: A Few Tips for Learning and Applying God's Word

    Most people agree that learning, knowing, and applying the Bible is important, but it is can also be challenging. Few people believe they know enough of the Bible or that they really understand it as well as they could (or should). In this episode, Craig shares a few tips for learning and applying God’s word. Hint: it is not magic, and it does require some work, but you can do it!

    21 min
  5. Episode 144: How Should I Pray?

    JAN 16

    Episode 144: How Should I Pray?

    Chances are you are listening to this because you are looking for steps to help you pray better. When Jesus’ disciples caught him in prayer in a “certain place,” they asked him, “Lord teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples to pray.” Jesus’s disciples never asked to be taught how to preach or teach. The Scripture does not mention the disciples ever asking Jesus to help them multiply loaves and fishes or even how to turn water into wine. But, they asked to be taught how to pray. On this episode, Craig explores Jesus's model prayer and offers some practical tips to help you pray better.

    17 min
  6. Episode 143: Ignite Your Life with Barry Meguiar

    JAN 12

    Episode 143: Ignite Your Life with Barry Meguiar

    In this episode Craig interviews Barry Meguiar, the founder of a successful car care business who transitioned into a ministry focused on sharing faith. Barry shares his journey from a troubled past to a life dedicated to God, emphasizing the importance of joy, purpose, and everyday evangelism. He encourages listeners to see their daily lives as opportunities to share their faith and move others closer to Jesus, regardless of their profession or circumstances. The conversation highlights the significance of trusting God, living with joy, and being intentional in sharing the gospel. Takeaways Barry Meguiar transitioned from a car care business to ministry.Joy is essential in sharing faith, even during trials.Every Christian is in full-time ministry, regardless of their job.Trusting God leads to a fulfilling life and purpose.Sharing faith can happen in everyday conversations.Intentionality is key in evangelism and reaching the lost.Your personal testimony can have a powerful impact.Hobbies and passions can serve as mission fields.The church must equip believers to share their faith.Living out the Great Commission is a daily responsibility.Titles From Car Wax to Ministry: Barry’s JourneyFaith in Business: Trusting God’s PlanSound Bites “You have to follow the nudge.”“You can have joy every day.”“Sharing your faith is fun.”Chapters 00:00Introduction to Barry Maguire’s Journey 05:49Living in Full-Time Ministry 09:04The Power of Joy in Adversity 11:54Sharing Faith in Everyday Life 14:59The Importance of Loving Your Neighbor 17:55Igniting Your Life Through Faith 21:01Overcoming Fear in Evangelism 23:45The Call to Ministry and Sharing Faith 26:18The Business as a Pulpit 28:05Everyday Evangelism: Your Life as a Mission Field 31:24The Role of Pastors in Evangelism 32:19The State of Faith in America 33:12Living with Purpose: Moving Others Closer to Jesus 34:55Finding God in Hobbies and Passions 38:57The Joy of Sharing Faith 41:27Trusting God in Evangelism 41:46Ignite America: Resources for Evangelism

    49 min
  7. Episode 142: The Lion Within Us with Chris Grainger

    12/30/2025

    Episode 142: The Lion Within Us with Chris Grainger

    In this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast, Craig Thompson interviews Chris Grainger, the host of The Lion Within Us. Chris shares his journey of starting a men’s ministry, the importance of spiritual leadership, and how he uses his secular career to impact others for Christ. He discusses the challenges he faced, including personal struggles and the significance of encouragement in relationships. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity in faith and the role of community in spiritual growth. Takeaways Chris Grainger emphasizes the importance of being a spiritual leader in the home.Encouragement from others can significantly impact one’s journey.Breaking his ankle led to unexpected spiritual growth for Chris.Men’s ministry is crucial for helping men navigate their faith.The Bible app offers valuable resources for men seeking spiritual guidance.Authenticity in faith is essential for effective ministry.Language and communication style can reflect one’s faith.Physical challenges can lead to deeper spiritual insights.Community support is vital for personal growth and accountability.Every individual has the potential to make an impact in their sphere of influence.Titles Unleashing Your Inner Lion: Chris Grainger’s JourneyThe Power of Encouragement in Men’s MinistryChapters 00:00Introduction to Chris Grainger and His Mission 03:06The Birth of The Lion Within Us 06:09Utilizing the Bible App for Men’s Ministry 09:03The Impact of Writing and Publishing 11:51Encouragement and Its Power 15:13The Importance of Affirmation in Relationships 22:07The Power of Compliments in Relationships 24:25Lessons from Physical Challenges 30:00Finding Ministry in Secular Work 41:04Embracing Spiritual Leadership at Home

    46 min
  8. Episode 141: Christmas Traditions 2025 Edition

    12/18/2025

    Episode 141: Christmas Traditions 2025 Edition

    Where did Christmas trees come from? What is Hanukkah and how is it related to Christmas? Who was Boniface and what connection does he have to Thor? Learn these traditions and more in this episode of the Ordinary Christian Podcast.

    26 min
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A podcast dedicated to real people like you, seeking to live out your Christian faith in the ordinary aspects of everyday life.

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