Gardens in Babylon | Christian Faith Podcast

Kevin Minnett & Riley Toews | Christian Family & Discipleship
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Author: Kevin Minnett & Riley Toews | Christian Family & DiscipleshipDescription:In a world that often feels hostile to Christians, God calls His people to stop waiting for rescue and start planting gardens right where they are. Inspired by Jeremiah 29, this podcast is for ordinary Christian moms juggling laundry and schedules, dads looking over noisy dinner tables with hungry kids, and parents raising the next generation to love the Lord and find godly spouses. Hosted by Kevin Minnett and Pastor Riley Toews, each episode opens with historic Christian voices on family worship, then dives into real stories, practical wisdom, and joyful encouragement for the modern household. What We BelieveWe believe the home is a "nursery"—a greenhouse where parents act as gardeners, cultivating tender shoots into resilient, fruit-bearing adults. Whether you are navigating the early years of toddlers or the complex challenges of the teen years, we provide a roadmap for building a family that outlasts the cultural shift. Topics We TackleFamily Worship & Discipleship: Practical rhythms for the "Family Altar" (Read, Pray, Sing, Catechize).Biblical Manhood: What it looks like to become and cultivate faithful manhood.Home Education & Worldview: Raising kids to think biblically in a secular age.The Family Economy: Moving from a "consumer" home to a "productive" household through homesteading, thrift, and a biblical work ethic.Parenting Teens: Helping Christian teenagers navigate identity, mental health, and social media with a firm foundation.Legacy & Heritage: Wisdom for grandparents and parents on building a multi-generational legacy.A Resource for the Whole FamilyWhile we primarily target moms and dads, we aim to be a teen-friendly Christian podcast that the whole family can enjoy together. From our "Dad Joke" face-offs to deep dives into church history, we believe that family-friendly content should be both deep and delightful. You’ll hear from pastors raising big families, homesteaders building productive households, missionaries, and more—all choosing to build, worship, work, and multiply faithfulness in hard places. Connect With UsNew episodes dropping Spring/Summer 2026. Send us your best family dad jokes or stories of how you're cultivating faithfulness at home—we may share them on the show!Suggest a Guest: Let us know who is planting "gardens" in your community.About this show: Gardens in Babylon is a Christian parenting podcast for moms, dads, and teens interested in family discipleship, home education, and family worship. Keywords: Christian Parenting, Family Discipleship, Home Education, Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, Family Worship, Christian Homesteading, Raising Godly Children, Teen Christian Faith, 1689 Baptist Theology, Family Economy.

  1. Faithful Through the Fire: Leading Through Medical Challenges, Ministry, and the Making of Godly Men

    2d ago

    Faithful Through the Fire: Leading Through Medical Challenges, Ministry, and the Making of Godly Men

    Faithful Through the Fire: Leading Through Medical Challenges, Ministry, and the Making of Godly Men Scheduled Jun 29•S2 E2 In a culture that constantly redefines masculinity, what does true, biblical manhood look like when tested by decades of trials? In this episode of Gardens in Babylon, hosts Kevin and Riley Toews dive into the heart of godly masculinity, sacrificial love, and enduring commitment. They are joined by Steve Pettit (former President of Bob Jones University and current President of the Palmetto Family Council) and his wife, Terry Pettit. Together, they share a raw, powerful testimony of navigating over 40 years of marriage, full-time evangelistic ministry, and a relentless gauntlet of health crises—including Multiple Sclerosis, multiple cancers, and liver cirrhosis. If you want to know how to set the spiritual climate of your home when the storms of life hit, this episode is a masterclass in long faithfulness in the same direction. 🔑 Key Takeaways from the Episode1. Men Are the Thermostats, Not the Thermometers A thermometer merely records the temperature of the room; a thermostat sets it. In Christian marriage, a husband has a God-ordained responsibility to take the initiative and set the climate of warmth, affection, and stability—regardless of how external circumstances change. 2. Duty to Your Spouse is Rooted in Duty to God Our marital duties are not a reward system for a spouse who makes life easy. True sacrificial love means sticking to the vows of in sickness and in health because our ultimate obedience is to Christ, making the behavior of others irrelevant to our call to love. "As a man is, so is his strength. Manhood is manifested in strength, courage—the courage to do right, the strength to carry on, and perseverance." — Steve Pettit 3. The Power of "Long Faithfulness" Steve and Terry model what it looks like to carry unusual burdens alongside unusual blessings. Their secret? A relentless commitment to daily Scripture reading, local church community, and a spirit-controlled life that allows the peace of God to anchor them in times of deep uncertainty. 📚 Resources & Links Mentioned Palmetto Family Council: Discover how Steve is advocating for biblical worldview values in South Carolina at Palmetto Family.Featured Children's Book: Bible Lands Books: 50 Animals in the Bible by Rebecca Pettit. Perfect for your family devotions.U8IOLOAKBKC7HUBR, FYUDTXYZXF1BPMPD, MAE8VLZ9WJAWPHF5

    1h 5m
  2. Embrace Life Under the Sun: Finding Joy and Faithfulness in a Frustrating World

    Jun 22

    Embrace Life Under the Sun: Finding Joy and Faithfulness in a Frustrating World

    Episode SummaryWhy does a good God allow life to feel so random, unjust, and fleeting? In this episode, host Kevin sits down with Dr. Randy Jaeggli—retired Old Testament professor at Bob Jones University and author of Embrace Life Under the Sun—to tackle one of the most misunderstood books of the Bible: Ecclesiastes. Dr. Jaeggli shares his journey from chemical engineering to full-time ministry, challenges modern scholarship's low view of Solomon’s wisdom, and redefines the Hebrew word Hevel (often translated as "vanity"). If you are a young man trying to navigate a materialistic, broken world while maintaining a steadfast, joyful walk with God, this conversation provides the ultimate baseline for biblical manhood. Key TakeawaysThe Reality Matrix: Unlike Proverbs, which outlines the general rules of an ordered universe, Ecclesiastes serves as a realistic corrective for a fallen world where the righteous suffer and tragedies happen.Defining Hevel: Hevel is a dynamic metaphor representing what is transitory (fleeting like a vapor) and frustrated by the fall of man.The Giver vs. The Gift: True enjoyment of creation is impossible without a relationship with the Creator. Without God, we become greedy consumers endlessly chasing the next extreme high.The "All-In" Commitment: Godly manhood isn't defined by your material possessions or career status. It is found in a quiet, faithful life rooted in Deuteronomy 6:4–5—loving God with all your heart, soul, and might.Quotes Worth Sharing"The Book of Ecclesiastes has a hard-hitting and realistic view of life... it serves the purpose of God telling us ahead of time that there are some really deleterious outcomes that come from life. We better be ready for this." — Dr. Randy Jaeggli "Life is not a game. It's not 'whoever dies with the most toys wins.' It's who has a real relationship with the God of heaven." — Dr. Randy Jaeggli Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeEmbrace Life Under the Sun (2015) by Dr. Randy Jaeggli

    1 hr
  3. The Ins and Outs of Family Worship

    Jun 15

    The Ins and Outs of Family Worship

    The conversation explores the concept of commitment over feelings, emphasizing the importance of taking action even when the heart is not fully in it. It delves into the idea that obedience should not be contingent on feelings and highlights the role of commitment in shaping one's heart. Takeaways Commitment precedes feelingsObedience is not contingent on feelings Chapters 00:00 Commitment Over Feelings

    1h 4m
  4. All My Bones Shall Say, Who is Like the Lord

    Jun 8

    All My Bones Shall Say, Who is Like the Lord

    The conversation delves into the challenges and support faced by the Heikoop family, particularly in relation to their son Michael's journey and diagnosis. It also explores the day-to-day life of the family, the lessons learned, and the metaphor of the body as a representation of the value of life and the faithfulness of God. Takeaways Family worship is a trial of the state of our heartsThe duty of family worship is not a legalistic checklist but a reflection of our love for God Faithfulness of GodValue of lifeSupport and communityChallenges and sacrifices Chapters 00:00 The Illusion of Family Worship06:06 Living Out Family Worship in Hardship11:31 The Basics of Family Worship25:15 Light-Hearted Interlude31:21 Desire for a Large Family01:26:46 Metaphor of the Body

    1h 7m
  5. They Called Him Bash - The Streets, The Cell, the Savior

    Jun 2 ·  Bonus

    They Called Him Bash - The Streets, The Cell, the Savior

    Bashar shares his journey from growing up in a Catholic home in Iraq to escaping persecution and relocating to Canada. He discusses his experiences with faith, family, and the challenges he faced in his youth, including involvement in drug-related activities. Bashar shares his journey from drug dealing to incarceration and his encounter with the gospel. Bashar shares his journey of transformation from a life of addiction and crime to finding faith and grace in Jesus Christ. His encounters with temptation, conviction of sin, and the revelation of God's grace lead to a profound change in his life. He now lives to honor God and shares the gospel with others, reflecting on the parallels with the story of Zacchaeus. Takeaways Grace of God's powerEscaping persecution and relocating to Canada Drug dealing led Bashar into a dangerous lifestyle, involving hard drugs and criminal activities.Incarceration and parole provided Bashar with an opportunity to encounter the gospel and experience a positive community.Bashar's transformation from a life of crime to a life of faith and positivity is a powerful testimony of change and redemption. Grace and faith in Jesus Christ bring transformationPersonal relationship with Jesus brings joy and purposeSharing the gospel with others is a joyful privilege Chapters 00:00 The Grace of God's Power08:03 Escaping Persecution and Relocating to Canada20:03 Involvement in Drug-Related Activities33:34 Entering the World of Drug Dealing39:42 Life in Jail and Encounter with the Gospel53:40 Encounter with the Gospel and Transformation

    1h 25m
  6. Not Whether, But Which; Jesus, Politics, and the Myth of Neutrality

    Jun 1

    Not Whether, But Which; Jesus, Politics, and the Myth of Neutrality

    The conversation delves into the crisis of father-absent households, the dark age for the family, the assault on the family, the role of the family in God's plan, the family as the primary institution, the impact of fatherlessness on society, generational reformation, the importance of faithful families, Tim Bushong's journey to ministry, the growth of Syracuse Baptist Church, and the impact of Battle Hymns and music. The conversation delves into the intersection of music and faith, the role of politics in Christianity, navigating the challenges of modern Christianity, the impact of liturgy and tradition, and living out the Christian faith in today's world. Takeaways The family is under assault, and the crisis of father-absent households is a significant concern.Generational reformation and the role of faithful families are crucial in addressing the challenges faced by the family. Music plays a significant role in strengthening and encouraging people in their faith journey.The relationship between Christianity and politics is a complex and important aspect of modern Christian life. Chapters 00:00 The Crisis of Father-Absent Households05:14 Generational Reformation and Church's Role10:40 Transition to Tim Bushong's Background18:22 Tim Bushong's Journey to Ministry25:18 The Growth of Syracuse Baptist Church46:24 The Impact of Battle Hymns and Music58:55 The Intersection of Music and Faith01:10:11 The Impact of Liturgy and Tradition01:22:58 Living Out the Christian Faith in Today's World

    1h 7m
  7. A Garden to be Kept with Trinity Vandenacre

    May 25

    A Garden to be Kept with Trinity Vandenacre

    In this conversation we discuss stewardship of nature and the earth, as well as the challenges of contemporary education. We delve into the Green Religion movement, the ethical error of human existence, the biblical vision of stewardship, the positive vision of the Dominion Mandate, the productivity and blessing of work, local sourcing and self-sufficiency, an introduction to Trinity Vandenacre, and the concept of the garden to be kept. The conversation delves into the battle for truth in the Bible, the absurdity of evolution, the role of government in land stewardship, the design concept of land management, the impact of media on animal portrayal, understanding dominion mandate and land stewardship, and the impact of land management policies. The subtopics cover nature vs. human management, the role of wolves in nature, the influence of Wall Street on land management, the impact of government policies, the influence of environmental NGOs, the stewardship model, observing nature as design, the influence of media on animal portrayal, the impact of animal portrayal on human perception, the role of animals in nature, the dominion mandate, the impact of human activity on nature, the role of individuals in land stewardship, and the influence of centralized food systems. The conversation delves into the stewardship of nature and the importance of environmental education. It explores the role of dams in water management, the High Lonesome Society and its focus on environmental education, the financialization of nature and the public lands rule, the impact of nature and humans as financial assets, the fight against false guilt and manipulation, and the need to educate people on the connection between environmental and financial aspects. Takeaways Stewardship of nature and the earthChallenges of contemporary education Nature vs. Human ManagementImpact of Wolves on NatureThe Role of Government in Land Stewardship Stewardship of natureEnvironmental education Chapters 00:00 The Green Religion Movement05:36 The Positive Command of the Dominion Mandate19:09 Introduction to Trinity Vanden Aker27:52 Light-Hearted Interlude36:02 Formal Education and Ideologies42:46 The Garden to be Kept51:34 The Design Concept of Land Management01:01:29 The Impact of Land Management Policies01:30:59 The Role of Dams in Water Management01:39:42 The Financialization of Nature and Public Lands Rule01:45:21 Fighting Against False Guilt and Manipulation

    1h 31m
  8. God's Comfort with Ryan and Kelly Tame

    May 18

    God's Comfort with Ryan and Kelly Tame

    The conversation delves into the themes of persistence in prayer, God's sovereignty, the purpose of suffering and waiting, understanding God's will, and the emotional impact of pregnancy loss. It explores the silence of God, the power of prayer, decision making, and the impact of suffering on faith and emotions. The discussion also touches on the expectations and reality of family life, as well as the recovery process after pregnancy loss. The conversation delves into the journey of loss, grief, and faith, highlighting the impact on marriage and the ethical considerations of IVF. It also explores the adoption process, spiritual awakening, and the arrival of Nehemiah as a symbol of hope and comfort. Takeaways Persistence in prayerGod's sovereignty and human actionThe purpose of suffering and waitingUnderstanding God's willThe emotional impact of pregnancy loss Faith and trust in GodThe impact of loss and grief on marriage Chapters 00:00 The Silence of God06:00 God's Sovereignty and Human Action12:51 The Impact of Suffering25:00 Pregnancy Loss and Recovery33:47 Navigating Loss and Grief45:35 Adoption and Spiritual Awakening55:16 Challenges and Ethical Considerations of IVF01:08:06 The Arrival of Nehemiah

    1h 17m
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About

Author: Kevin Minnett & Riley Toews | Christian Family & DiscipleshipDescription:In a world that often feels hostile to Christians, God calls His people to stop waiting for rescue and start planting gardens right where they are. Inspired by Jeremiah 29, this podcast is for ordinary Christian moms juggling laundry and schedules, dads looking over noisy dinner tables with hungry kids, and parents raising the next generation to love the Lord and find godly spouses. Hosted by Kevin Minnett and Pastor Riley Toews, each episode opens with historic Christian voices on family worship, then dives into real stories, practical wisdom, and joyful encouragement for the modern household. What We BelieveWe believe the home is a "nursery"—a greenhouse where parents act as gardeners, cultivating tender shoots into resilient, fruit-bearing adults. Whether you are navigating the early years of toddlers or the complex challenges of the teen years, we provide a roadmap for building a family that outlasts the cultural shift. Topics We TackleFamily Worship & Discipleship: Practical rhythms for the "Family Altar" (Read, Pray, Sing, Catechize).Biblical Manhood: What it looks like to become and cultivate faithful manhood.Home Education & Worldview: Raising kids to think biblically in a secular age.The Family Economy: Moving from a "consumer" home to a "productive" household through homesteading, thrift, and a biblical work ethic.Parenting Teens: Helping Christian teenagers navigate identity, mental health, and social media with a firm foundation.Legacy & Heritage: Wisdom for grandparents and parents on building a multi-generational legacy.A Resource for the Whole FamilyWhile we primarily target moms and dads, we aim to be a teen-friendly Christian podcast that the whole family can enjoy together. From our "Dad Joke" face-offs to deep dives into church history, we believe that family-friendly content should be both deep and delightful. You’ll hear from pastors raising big families, homesteaders building productive households, missionaries, and more—all choosing to build, worship, work, and multiply faithfulness in hard places. Connect With UsNew episodes dropping Spring/Summer 2026. Send us your best family dad jokes or stories of how you're cultivating faithfulness at home—we may share them on the show!Suggest a Guest: Let us know who is planting "gardens" in your community.About this show: Gardens in Babylon is a Christian parenting podcast for moms, dads, and teens interested in family discipleship, home education, and family worship. Keywords: Christian Parenting, Family Discipleship, Home Education, Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, Family Worship, Christian Homesteading, Raising Godly Children, Teen Christian Faith, 1689 Baptist Theology, Family Economy.

Information

  • Creator
    Kevin Minnett & Riley Toews | Christian Family & Discipleship
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Kevin Minnett & Riley Toews | Christian Family & Discipleship

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