Season 2 of the Ascend Podcast launches with a powerful and timely conversation around one foundational question: Who are you following? In Episode 1, Check Your Circle, Justin Graham and Karl Kincaid unpack what it truly means to follow—not casually, not culturally, but intentionally and biblically. Following isn’t drifting, doing your own thing, or keeping Jesus as one option among many. Real following requires alignment—moving when He moves, turning when He turns, and matching His pace. The conversation highlights that while Jesus is the ultimate one we follow, God has also placed people in our lives to help guide, sharpen, and model faith. The problem arises when we imitate voices, lifestyles, or ideologies that are not rooted in Christ. If you follow someone, you will eventually imitate them—whether you intend to or not. Pastor Carl shares a compelling personal testimony, reflecting on how the example of others shaped his early life, the impact of misguided influence, and how God ultimately used Scripture, family, and community to call him back. His story points to the truth of “Train up a child in the way they should go” and how God’s call can resurface even after seasons of drifting. In 2008, Pastor Carl clearly heard the call of God on his life—reminding us that God calls everyone, but it’s our responsibility to choose whether we will follow. Justin emphasizes that everyone has a ministry. The real question is whether we will follow God’s call—or continue doing our own thing. Following Jesus requires denying self, a concept many struggle with today. We are often quick to distance ourselves from others, yet slow to disown our own flesh, pride, and desires. Jesus’ words in Mark 8:34 challenge us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. The episode also explores the danger of isolation and unhealthy circles. The wrong pack can quietly lead us off course, into confusion, compromise, or spiritual “lala land.” Influence matters. The blind leading the blind only creates more damage. Integrity, character, and trust must define the people we allow to lead us—and we must be honest about whether those voices are truly following Christ behind the scenes. At the same time, the hosts clarify an important balance: we are called to reach sinners, not follow them. Jesus modeled this perfectly—strong enough in His identity to lift others up without being pulled down. As followers of Christ, we must know who we are, walk in confidence, and rely on the Holy Spirit to empower us to live differently. The conversation challenges listeners to evaluate modern distractions—social media, trending voices, ideologies, and even AI-driven influence—that subtly shape beliefs and behaviors. Many are intentional about who they follow online, yet far less intentional about following Jesus with the same passion. The episode closes with a strong call to stay connected to the local church. Following Christ was never meant to be done alone. We need pastors, community, Life Groups, and spiritual accountability. The local church keeps us grounded in the Word, protects us from offense, and helps us remain teachable. Correction, when rooted in love and Scripture, is not rejection—it’s discipleship. Check your circle.Check who you’re following.Align everything with the Word of God—because nothing trumps truth. This season begins with a clear challenge: Go all in with Christ.No lukewarm faith. No drifting.Follow Jesus—together.
