Culture Matters

Culture Matters
  • 4.5 (486)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Matters of culture should matter to us—because they matter to God. Hosted by Adam Hawkins, Tymarcus Ragland and Chelsea Conway—the Culture Matters podcast explores the intersection of faith and culture. Looking at everything from politics, art and entertainment to issues such as racial reconciliation and the sanctity of human life, we discuss what it looks like to live faithfully on mission—in the world but not of the world.

  1. 1d ago

    The Church Part 4: Discipleship

    Ty and Chelsea continue their miniseries on the church by exploring the topic of discipleship. Building on the previous conversation about the church as a body, they discuss what it means to intentionally help others become more like Jesus and why so many believers feel hesitant to engage in discipleship. The conversation challenges the idea that discipleship is reserved for experts, pastors, or people who have “arrived” spiritually. Instead, discipleship is presented as a natural extension of Christian friendship and faithful obedience to Jesus. Ty and Chelsea unpack common barriers such as insecurity, perfectionism, and the misconception that discipleship requires having all the answers. They highlight how discipleship often happens in everyday life—through relationships, consistency, humility, repentance, and trust in the work of the Holy Spirit. Making disciples is not about being enough; it’s about faithfully joining God in the work He is already doing. Key TakeawaysDiscipleship is intentionally helping others become more like Jesus.You do not need to be spiritually perfect before discipling others.Everyone is already discipling and being discipled by something.Repentance, humility, and honesty are powerful discipleship tools.God is ultimately responsible for transforming hearts; our responsibility is faithful obedience.Making disciples becomes much less intimidating when we remember that God has already gone before us.Scriptures ReferencedMatthew 28:18–20 (The Great Commission)Mark 2–6 (Jesus calling and sending His disciples)1 Corinthians 8:1 (“Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.”)1 Corinthians 1:26–31 (God uses what appears weak in the world)Ephesians 2:10 (Created for good works prepared beforehand) Thanks to our SponsorsCozy Earth Discover how Cozy Earth turns everyday routines into moments of softness and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use code CULTURE for an exclusive 20% off. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co.

    32 min

  2. Jun 16

    The Church Part 3: One Body but Many Parts

    In part 3 of our Church Series, Adam and Ty explore the biblical vision of the church as one body with many parts. They address a common modern question—"Do I have to go to church to be a Christian?"—and argue that the New Testament treats participation in the people of God as the assumed context of Christian life. Rather than focusing on obligation, they reframe the conversation around why believers would want to belong to a local church. The discussion highlights how God uses diverse people, gifts, backgrounds, and experiences to form His people into the image of Christ. Adam and Ty contrast the church's embodied, communal nature with today's hyper-individualistic and digital culture, emphasizing that Christian formation happens through relationships, service, mutual encouragement, and shared worship. They also unpack the church's unique relationship to power, noting that greatness in the Kingdom is measured by service rather than status. Key TakeawaysThe New Testament assumes Christians are part of a local community of believers.Spiritual growth is designed to happen in relationship with other Christians.The church is more than a sermon and worship service; it is a family.Every believer has gifts intended to strengthen the body of Christ.Christian unity is centered on Jesus, not shared preferences or cultural identities.Biblical leadership is marked by service, humility, and sacrifice.The church is called to welcome outsiders because all believers were once outsiders welcomed by grace.Scriptures Referenced1 Corinthians – The church as one body with many membersMatthew 20:20–28 – Greatness through servanthoodEphesians 2:10 – Created for good worksGenesis 1–3 – Dominion, community, and the effects of sin Thanks to our SponsorsCozy Earth Discover how Cozy Earth turns everyday routines into moments of softness and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use code CULTURE for an exclusive 20% off. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co.

    45 min

  3. Jun 9

    The Church Part 2: Union with Christ

    In Part 2 of their conversation on the Church, Chelsea and Tamaris Ragland explore the foundational Christian doctrine of union with Christ and why it matters for understanding the Church. Building from the previous episode, they discuss how the New Testament assumes believers are connected not only to Christ but also to one another through His body, the Church. Drawing heavily from Ephesians 1, the conversation highlights the repeated phrase “in Christ” and unpacks the spiritual blessings believers receive through their union with Jesus: redemption, adoption, inheritance, and the promise of future glory. The hosts challenge modern individualism and encourage listeners to see church membership not as a consumer experience but as a covenant community where believers are formed, encouraged, and sanctified together. The episode also addresses the growing tension between embodied community and digital engagement. While online ministry can serve as a helpful supplement, Chelsea and Tamaris argue that Christianity is inherently incarnational. Just as Christ came physically among His people, believers are called to live in meaningful, embodied relationships with one another. Ultimately, this conversation is an invitation to move toward the Church—even when it is difficult—trusting that God is at work through ordinary people, faithful communities, and the slow work of spiritual formation. Key TakeawaysUnion with Christ is the foundation of Christian identity.The Church is God’s chosen means of advancing His kingdom on earth.Spiritual growth is intended to happen in community, not isolation.Church participation is about both receiving and contributing.Embodied presence matters because Christianity is an incarnational faith.Healthy churches offer a powerful witness in a fragmented culture.Faithfulness often looks ordinary, slow, and relational.Resources MentionedBooksThe Cross of Christ — Recommended for understanding the necessity and significance of Christ’s atoning work.The Weight of Glory — Referenced regarding the eternal significance of our neighbors and fellow believers.Previous Culture Matters EpisodeConversation with Ryanne Molinari on worship, congregational singing, and spiritual formation through gathered worship. Thanks to our SponsorsCozy Earth Discover how Cozy Earth turns everyday routines into moments of softness and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use code CULTURE for an exclusive 20% off. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co.

    49 min

  4. Jun 2

    The Church Part 1: The People of God

    Chelsea and Tymarcus kick off a new mini-series on the church. Today they explore a question that many Christians wrestle with: Do you have to be part of a church to follow Jesus? Rather than approaching the topic as a defense of church attendance, they examine how the New Testament consistently assumes that followers of Jesus are connected to the people of God. The discussion highlights the church as more than a weekly gathering or building—it is the global, historic, and Spirit-filled community of believers united in Christ. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and personal experience, Chelsea and Tymarcus unpack themes of discipleship, accountability, spiritual formation, church hurt, community, and the beauty of belonging to Christ’s bride. They also address common objections to church involvement, acknowledging the reality of painful experiences while encouraging listeners not to abandon God’s design for Christian flourishing. The episode closes by looking ahead to future conversations on union with Christ, discipleship, and the mission of the church. Key TakeawaysThe New Testament assumes Christians are connected to the people of God.Church participation is about more than attendance; it is about belonging.Spiritual growth requires community, accountability, and discipleship.Church hurt is real, but unhealthy churches should not redefine God’s design for the church.The church is imperfect because people are imperfect, yet Christ remains committed to His bride.Isolation often deprives believers of the very means God uses for encouragement and sanctification.Gathering with believers is a gift and grace from God.Scriptures MentionedActs 2:42–47Romans 8:29–30Ephesians 4:4–6Proverbs 27:17 (“Iron sharpens iron”)1 John 2:19 Thanks to our SponsorsIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Cozy Earth Discover how Cozy Earth turns everyday routines into moments of softness and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use code CULTURE for an exclusive 20% off. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co.

    51 min

  5. Apr 23

    Codependency and Boundaries with Katherine Bahcall

    This episode dives deep into the intersection of boundaries, codependency, and discipleship. Katherine Bahcall helps reframe a culturally saturated conversation by grounding it in Scripture and the gospel. While the world often defines boundaries as a tool for self-protection and self-esteem, this conversation pushes further—revealing that the root issue isn’t just relational dysfunction, but misplaced worship. Codependency isn’t merely unhealthy attachment; it’s often a sign that we’re looking to people to give us what only God can. Adam, Chelsea and Katherine explore how these dynamics form (often in family systems), how they play out in friendships, marriage, and ministry, and why discernment—not formulas—is the key to healthy relationships. Ultimately, boundaries aren’t about building walls—they’re about loving people rightly and pointing them to Christ. Key TakeawaysBoundaries are not about protecting yourself—they’re about loving rightly.Codependency often reveals a deeper issue: misplaced identity and worship.You don’t need a formula for every relationship—you need discernment.Start with your relationship with God, and other relationships will follow.A healthy boundary may disappoint someone—but still be the most loving thing you can do.Mentioned ResourcesBoundaries — Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John TownsendCodependent No More — Melody BeattieThe Meaning of Marriage — Timothy Keller (for relational dynamics)ScriptureJeremiah 2:13 — God as the fountain of living waterProverbs 29:25 — Fear of man vs. trust in GodRomans 14 — Conviction, conscience, and not causing others to stumble1 John (themes of abiding and relationship with God referenced throughout) Thanks to our SponsorsIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Cozy Earth Let this Mother’s Day be a reminder that she deserves care, too — discover how Cozy Earth turns everyday routines into moments of softness and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use code CULTURE for an exclusive 20% off. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co.

    52 min

  6. Apr 14

    Created to Create

    Chelsea and Tymarcus unpack the deeper meaning of creativity—not just as artistic expression, but as a core part of being human. Rooted in Scripture and lived experience, they challenge the cultural narrative that creativity only matters if it’s monetized or platform-worthy. From sourdough baking to engineering, parenting to music, they explore how creativity shows up in everyday life—and why it’s worth pursuing even when no one is watching. This conversation reframes creativity as stewardship, formation, and worship, reminding us that we are created by a creative God and invited to reflect Him in both work and play. Key TakeawaysCreativity is not limited to art—it’s woven into how we live, work, and relate.Your gifts are less about you and more about reflecting the God who gave them.You don’t need a platform, paycheck, or perfection to pursue creativity.Discipline + time = growth, even in “small” things.Play, rest, and hobbies are spiritually formative—not distractions.Community is essential for discernment, balance, and sustainability.Start where you are. Stay consistent. Let God shape you through the process.  Mentioned ResourcesCulture Matters Episode with Jonathan Pennington (on work & vocation)  Thanks to our SponsorsIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Cozy Earth This Mother's Day, give the gift that shows up every single night. Head to cozyearth.com and use my code CULTUREBOGO for an exclusive Buy One, Give One offer running from April 12th to April 18th on sheet sets and if you get Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co.

    48 min

  7. Apr 7

    Fasting & Feasting

    In this Tuesday-after-Easter conversation, Chelsea and Ty reflect on the beauty, tension, and purpose behind spiritual rhythms like feasting and fasting. From Easter services to Good Friday reflections, they unpack why certain moments in the church calendar feel more significant—and why that’s actually by design. The conversation explores how celebration (feasting) and lament (fasting) work together to shape us spiritually. These rhythms aren’t about performance or tradition for tradition’s sake—they’re about reorientation. In a world full of distraction, discouragement, and noise, God gives His people intentional markers to remember the story we’re part of. Resources & ReferencesBooksDwell — Barry JonesYou Are What You Love — James K. A. SmithScripturesNehemiah 1:4 – Fasting in response to brokennessExodus 12 – Passover as remembranceLuke 22 – The Last Supper2 Corinthians 3 – “Unveiled face” and transformationJames 1 – Remembering and living the WordKey TakeawaysWe are forgetful people—rhythms like Easter and Lent help us remember what matters most. Feasting reminds us of joy and hope—a foretaste of the Kingdom. Fasting reminds us of brokenness and dependence—we cannot fix the world on our own. The goal isn’t constant intensity—it’s faithful formation. We live between two realities Jesus has already risenAnd we are still waiting for full restoration Thanks to our Sponsors In A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Cozy Earth Let this Mother’s Day be a reminder that she deserves care, too — discover how Cozy Earth turns everyday routines into moments of softness and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use code Culture for an exclusive 20% off. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

    37 min

  8. Mar 31

    Cultural Roundup

    The crew tackles heavy global headlines—from tensions involving Iran and U.S. military action to immigration debates and ICE-related unrest—while asking a deeper question: How should Christians respond when the world feels unstable and unclear? Rather than offering political prescriptions, the conversation centers on spiritual posture: lament, prayer, discernment, and faithful presence in everyday life. They wrestle honestly with information overload, mistrust in media, and the tension between civic responsibility and Christian identity. The episode closes on a lighter but still meaningful note, diving into books, films, and the Oscars—highlighting how art, storytelling, and theology shape our imagination and help us process grief, beauty, and truth. Resources & Mentions📖 BooksAwaiting the King — On Christian political theology and cultural formationJesus and the Disinherited — A profound look at Jesus’ message for the oppressedThe Cross of Christ — Deep theological reflection on the meaning of the crossChanged into His Likeness: A Theology of Change — Biblical framework for transformationThe Word in the Wilderness — Poetry and reflection for LentHere I Stand - Martin Luther Biography (Roland Bainton) — Insight into Luther’s life and struggle for grace🎬 Movies & MediaHamnet — Grief, art, and Shakespearean storytellingSentimental Value — Family, reconciliation, and lossSinners — Michael B. Jordan’s dual performance (notable acting craft)Project Hail Mary — Sci-fi story centered on friendship, hope, and collaborationKey TakeawaysClarity isn’t always available—but faithfulness is.Christians may disagree on policy, but not on how people are treated.Prayer, lament, and love are not passive—they are formative.You don’t need global influence to live faithfully—start local.Rejecting hatred is a radical, Kingdom-centered act.Art helps us process truth, grief, and beauty in ways arguments cannot.Thanks to our SponsorIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

    53 min
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Hosts & Guests

4.5
out of 5
486 Ratings

About

Matters of culture should matter to us—because they matter to God. Hosted by Adam Hawkins, Tymarcus Ragland and Chelsea Conway—the Culture Matters podcast explores the intersection of faith and culture. Looking at everything from politics, art and entertainment to issues such as racial reconciliation and the sanctity of human life, we discuss what it looks like to live faithfully on mission—in the world but not of the world.

Information

  • Creator
    Culture Matters
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    324
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Culture Matters

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