Keeping It Real: Kingdom Conversations with Chris Barhorst, Kevin Bryant, Stefani Jebavy and Jon Jebavy

Chris Barhorst, Jon Jebavy, Stefani Jebavy, and Kevin Bryant
  • 5.0 (13)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Daily

We wanted to give others a chance to listen in on three friends who love Jesus talking about the word and truth. Each week we will release an entire conversation that is about an hour and a half. Every conversation will be three parts and be around thirty minutes each episode. Every Monday will be part 1, Wednesday part 2 and Friday part 3, and every week is a different conversation. We pray you find hope in every episode as we discuss different topics. These conversations may challenge you or encourage you. Always ask the Father about what you hear and let Him confirm His truth to you; never take what anyone says as truth without confirmation from Holy Spirit. We hope you are blessed by these podcasts!

  1. 1d ago

    Covenant Confidence and Identity (Part 3 of 3)

    Email us: KingdomConversations25@gmail.com Highlights Covenant Confidence vs. Self-Effort: True confidence (parrhesia) is defined as a boldness to speak without fear of censorship. It is a byproduct of understanding God’s "covenant love." The group contrasted this with "fleshly" confidence, which is rooted in self-righteousness and willpower, both of which eventually fail.The Nature of the Flesh: The "flesh" was redefined not just as sinful behavior, but as the desire to trust in oneself ("I got this"). The works of the flesh (adultery, gossip, etc.) are seen as the fruit of wrong believing rather than the root problem.Walking in the Light: Using the analogy of a light switch, the group discussed how darkness (sin and shame) is naturally displaced by light (Christ). However, this requires intentional focus, as believers can "leak" or drift away from this understanding if they do not consciously remain in the Word and fellowship.The Power of Identity: A central theme was identifying as "the righteousness of God in Christ" even in the immediate aftermath of a failure. By declaring this identity in the moment of shame, the dominion of sin is broken because the focus shifts from the failure to the Savior. Key Insights & Nuance The "Persistent Widow" Strategy: Heather highlighted the widow in Luke 18 as being "obnoxiously confident" in her rights. This was framed as a model for believers to boldly claim their covenant rights to justice and grace.Fellowship as a Lampstand: Chris noted that a "lit" spirit (born again) is meant to be placed on a lampstand (the church). Isolating oneself is equivalent to putting a bushel over the light, which hinders the ability to walk in the light as described in 1 John.The "Current" of Rest: Chris shared an analogy of a swimmer winning a race by laboring to get into a central ocean current. Similarly, spiritual victory comes from the "labor" of entering God's rest through prayer and the Word, allowing His power to carry the individual.Empathy of the High Priest: The group discussed Jesus' humanity, noting that His ability to empathize with human temptation (Hebrews 4:15) provides the basis for coming boldly to the throne of grace without fear of condemnation. Nuance & Friction The Trap of Accountability: Kevin shared that traditional accountability partners and "penance-based" restoration often fail because they focus on behavior and external pressure rather than a heart change. He argued that these methods often reinforce the cycle of shame rather than breaking it.Self-Righteousness as the Greatest Risk: Jon identified self-righteousness as the most dangerous sin because it leads to dismissing Christ’s work entirely. The group agreed that the "flickering light" of the soul (mind/emotions) is normal, but the spirit remains perfectly lit. Actionable Items Read Victorious Emotions by Wendy Backlund: Kevin highlighted a quote from this book regarding having more faith in Jesus' ability to make one righteous than in Adam's ability to make one a sinner.Practice "Covenant Remembrance": Use communion and daily declarations of biblical promises to prevent the "leaking" of spiritual confidence.Shift Prayer from Asking to Thanking: Jon suggested that concrete results come from the prayer of thanksgiving—thanking God for the promise as if it is already possessed rather than begging for it.Support the show KingdomConversations25@gmail.com

  2. 3d ago

    Covenant Confidence and Identity (Part 2 of 3)

    Email us: KingdomConversations25@gmail.com Highlights Covenant Confidence vs. Self-Effort: True confidence (parrhesia) is defined as a boldness to speak without fear of censorship. It is a byproduct of understanding God’s "covenant love." The group contrasted this with "fleshly" confidence, which is rooted in self-righteousness and willpower, both of which eventually fail.The Nature of the Flesh: The "flesh" was redefined not just as sinful behavior, but as the desire to trust in oneself ("I got this"). The works of the flesh (adultery, gossip, etc.) are seen as the fruit of wrong believing rather than the root problem.Walking in the Light: Using the analogy of a light switch, the group discussed how darkness (sin and shame) is naturally displaced by light (Christ). However, this requires intentional focus, as believers can "leak" or drift away from this understanding if they do not consciously remain in the Word and fellowship.The Power of Identity: A central theme was identifying as "the righteousness of God in Christ" even in the immediate aftermath of a failure. By declaring this identity in the moment of shame, the dominion of sin is broken because the focus shifts from the failure to the Savior. Key Insights & Nuance The "Persistent Widow" Strategy: Heather highlighted the widow in Luke 18 as being "obnoxiously confident" in her rights. This was framed as a model for believers to boldly claim their covenant rights to justice and grace.Fellowship as a Lampstand: Chris noted that a "lit" spirit (born again) is meant to be placed on a lampstand (the church). Isolating oneself is equivalent to putting a bushel over the light, which hinders the ability to walk in the light as described in 1 John.The "Current" of Rest: Chris shared an analogy of a swimmer winning a race by laboring to get into a central ocean current. Similarly, spiritual victory comes from the "labor" of entering God's rest through prayer and the Word, allowing His power to carry the individual.Empathy of the High Priest: The group discussed Jesus' humanity, noting that His ability to empathize with human temptation (Hebrews 4:15) provides the basis for coming boldly to the throne of grace without fear of condemnation. Nuance & Friction The Trap of Accountability: Kevin shared that traditional accountability partners and "penance-based" restoration often fail because they focus on behavior and external pressure rather than a heart change. He argued that these methods often reinforce the cycle of shame rather than breaking it.Self-Righteousness as the Greatest Risk: Jon identified self-righteousness as the most dangerous sin because it leads to dismissing Christ’s work entirely. The group agreed that the "flickering light" of the soul (mind/emotions) is normal, but the spirit remains perfectly lit. Actionable Items Read Victorious Emotions by Wendy Backlund: Kevin highlighted a quote from this book regarding having more faith in Jesus' ability to make one righteous than in Adam's ability to make one a sinner.Practice "Covenant Remembrance": Use communion and daily declarations of biblical promises to prevent the "leaking" of spiritual confidence.Shift Prayer from Asking to Thanking: Jon suggested that concrete results come from the prayer of thanksgiving—thanking God for the promise as if it is already possessed rather than begging for it.Support the show KingdomConversations25@gmail.com

  3. 5d ago

    Covenant Confidence and Identity (Part 1 of 3)

    Email us: KingdomConversations25@gmail.com Highlights Covenant Confidence vs. Self-Effort: True confidence (parrhesia) is defined as a boldness to speak without fear of censorship. It is a byproduct of understanding God’s "covenant love." The group contrasted this with "fleshly" confidence, which is rooted in self-righteousness and willpower, both of which eventually fail.The Nature of the Flesh: The "flesh" was redefined not just as sinful behavior, but as the desire to trust in oneself ("I got this"). The works of the flesh (adultery, gossip, etc.) are seen as the fruit of wrong believing rather than the root problem.Walking in the Light: Using the analogy of a light switch, the group discussed how darkness (sin and shame) is naturally displaced by light (Christ). However, this requires intentional focus, as believers can "leak" or drift away from this understanding if they do not consciously remain in the Word and fellowship.The Power of Identity: A central theme was identifying as "the righteousness of God in Christ" even in the immediate aftermath of a failure. By declaring this identity in the moment of shame, the dominion of sin is broken because the focus shifts from the failure to the Savior. Key Insights & Nuance The "Persistent Widow" Strategy: Heather highlighted the widow in Luke 18 as being "obnoxiously confident" in her rights. This was framed as a model for believers to boldly claim their covenant rights to justice and grace.Fellowship as a Lampstand: Jon JJ noted that a "lit" spirit (born again) is meant to be placed on a lampstand (the church). Isolating oneself is equivalent to putting a bushel over the light, which hinders the ability to walk in the light as described in 1 John.The "Current" of Rest: Jon JJ shared an analogy of a swimmer winning a race by laboring to get into a central ocean current. Similarly, spiritual victory comes from the "labor" of entering God's rest through prayer and the Word, allowing His power to carry the individual.Empathy of the High Priest: The group discussed Jesus' humanity, noting that His ability to empathize with human temptation (Hebrews 4:15) provides the basis for coming boldly to the throne of grace without fear of condemnation. Nuance & Friction The Trap of Accountability: Kevin shared that traditional accountability partners and "penance-based" restoration often fail because they focus on behavior and external pressure rather than a heart change. He argued that these methods often reinforce the cycle of shame rather than breaking it.Self-Righteousness as the Greatest Risk: Jon identified self-righteousness as the most dangerous sin because it leads to dismissing Christ’s work entirely. The group agreed that the "flickering light" of the soul (mind/emotions) is normal, but the spirit remains perfectly lit. Actionable Items Read Victorious Emotions by Wendy Backlund: Kevin highlighted a quote from this book regarding having more faith in Jesus' ability to make one righteous than in Adam's ability to make one a sinner.Practice "Covenant Remembrance": Use communion and daily declarations of biblical promises to prevent the "leaking" of spiritual confidence.Shift Prayer from Asking to Thanking: Jon suggested that concrete results come from the prayer of thanksgiving—thanking God for the promise as if it is already possessed rather than begging for it.Support the show KingdomConversations25@gmail.com

  4. Sep 11

    Walking in Light and the Power of Words (Part 3 of 3)

    Email us: KingdomConversations25@gmail.com The Power of the Tongue A primary theme was the "two-mouthed sword" (Hebrews 4:12), interpreted as the alignment of God’s Word with the believer's confession. Intentionality: Participants noted that while God has already provided promises (healing, prosperity, peace), these must be activated by speaking them aloud. Silence allows the enemy to work, whereas speaking the Word enforces Christ's victory.The "Flash Dark" Concept: The group discussed how darkness is merely the absence of light and has no power to penetrate it. By "pumping light" through scripture, believers can recognize and repel encroaching darkness in their emotions and relationships.Neutrality as a Risk: It was argued that the "road to hell is paved with neutrality." Being idle or silent regarding one's beliefs allows the "slothful field" of the mind to be overgrown with thorns.Spiritual Growth and Revelation The conversation shifted to the mechanics of spiritual development, moving away from corporate or "supplemental" teaching toward direct relationship. Process vs. Event: Growth was described as "little by little" (Exodus 23:30) to prevent the believer from being overwhelmed. Maturity requires renewing the mind rather than relying on "magic prayers."Logos vs. Rhema: While teachers provide Logos (the written Word), only the Holy Spirit provides Rhema (revealed, living Word). Participants were encouraged to be disciples of Jesus rather than followers of people in high positions within the church realm.The Humanity of Christ: There was a deep dive into the significance of Jesus coming in the flesh. Denying His humanity was labeled a "spirit of antichrist," as it undermines the legal condemnation of sin in human flesh.Practical Application and Boundaries The group shared personal anecdotes regarding the application of these spiritual truths in daily life. Marriage and Submission: Stephanie and others discussed submission not as forced obedience, but as a heart posture of love. They highlighted the importance of maintaining boundaries against "guilt-led" control from family or friends.The "Budget" Anecdote: A lighthearted example was shared about a minor conflict over a buried desk calendar, illustrating how quickly "darkness" (frustration) can enter a situation and how "mercy and grace" are required to resolve it without escalating.Imagination as a Tool: The group discussed using the imagination to "walk out" the Word, citing studies where athletes grew muscle through mental rehearsal. Similarly, believers should imagine themselves laying hands on the sick or walking in favor.The Remnant in the "End Times" The dialogue concluded with a look at the current cultural landscape, including the rise of "bizarre beliefs" like UFOs and demonic experiences. The Thinning Veil: It was suggested that as the end approaches, the veil between realms is thinning, leading to more supernatural experiences for the unchurched.The Church’s Role: The group posited that the traditional "rules-based" church is defenseless against these experiences. Only a "remnant" established in the light and the power of the Holy Spirit will be able to offer a substantive alternative to those deceived by the world. A podcast for the hopeless and those struggling with their relationship with God. A Christian bible study with experienced believers who have been through the religious world and navigated their way to a relationship with Jesus!Support the show KingdomConversations25@gmail.com

  5. Sep 9

    Walking in Light and the Power of Words (Part 2 of 3)

    Email us: KingdomConversations25@gmail.com The Power of the Tongue A primary theme was the "two-mouthed sword" (Hebrews 4:12), interpreted as the alignment of God’s Word with the believer's confession. Intentionality: Participants noted that while God has already provided promises (healing, prosperity, peace), these must be activated by speaking them aloud. Silence allows the enemy to work, whereas speaking the Word enforces Christ's victory.The "Flash Dark" Concept: The group discussed how darkness is merely the absence of light and has no power to penetrate it. By "pumping light" through scripture, believers can recognize and repel encroaching darkness in their emotions and relationships.Neutrality as a Risk: It was argued that the "road to hell is paved with neutrality." Being idle or silent regarding one's beliefs allows the "slothful field" of the mind to be overgrown with thorns.Spiritual Growth and Revelation The conversation shifted to the mechanics of spiritual development, moving away from corporate or "supplemental" teaching toward direct relationship. Process vs. Event: Growth was described as "little by little" (Exodus 23:30) to prevent the believer from being overwhelmed. Maturity requires renewing the mind rather than relying on "magic prayers."Logos vs. Rhema: While teachers provide Logos (the written Word), only the Holy Spirit provides Rhema (revealed, living Word). Participants were encouraged to be disciples of Jesus rather than followers of people in high positions within the church realm.The Humanity of Christ: There was a deep dive into the significance of Jesus coming in the flesh. Denying His humanity was labeled a "spirit of antichrist," as it undermines the legal condemnation of sin in human flesh.Practical Application and Boundaries The group shared personal anecdotes regarding the application of these spiritual truths in daily life. Marriage and Submission: Stephanie and others discussed submission not as forced obedience, but as a heart posture of love. They highlighted the importance of maintaining boundaries against "guilt-led" control from family or friends.The "Budget" Anecdote: A lighthearted example was shared about a minor conflict over a buried desk calendar, illustrating how quickly "darkness" (frustration) can enter a situation and how "mercy and grace" are required to resolve it without escalating.Imagination as a Tool: The group discussed using the imagination to "walk out" the Word, citing studies where athletes grew muscle through mental rehearsal. Similarly, believers should imagine themselves laying hands on the sick or walking in favor.The Remnant in the "End Times" The dialogue concluded with a look at the current cultural landscape, including the rise of "bizarre beliefs" like UFOs and demonic experiences. The Thinning Veil: It was suggested that as the end approaches, the veil between realms is thinning, leading to more supernatural experiences for the unchurched.The Church’s Role: The group posited that the traditional "rules-based" church is defenseless against these experiences. Only a "remnant" established in the light and the power of the Holy Spirit will be able to offer a substantive alternative to those deceived by the world. A podcast for the hopeless and those struggling with their relationship with God. A Christian bible study with experienced believers who have been through the religious world and navigated their way to a relationship with Jesus!Support the show KingdomConversations25@gmail.com

  6. Sep 7

    Walking in Light and the Power of Words (Part 1 of 3)

    Email us: KingdomConversations25@gmail.com The Power of the Tongue A primary theme was the "two-mouthed sword" (Hebrews 4:12), interpreted as the alignment of God’s Word with the believer's confession. Intentionality: Participants noted that while God has already provided promises (healing, prosperity, peace), these must be activated by speaking them aloud. Silence allows the enemy to work, whereas speaking the Word enforces Christ's victory.The "Flash Dark" Concept: The group discussed how darkness is merely the absence of light and has no power to penetrate it. By "pumping light" through scripture, believers can recognize and repel encroaching darkness in their emotions and relationships.Neutrality as a Risk: It was argued that the "road to hell is paved with neutrality." Being idle or silent regarding one's beliefs allows the "slothful field" of the mind to be overgrown with thorns.Spiritual Growth and Revelation The conversation shifted to the mechanics of spiritual development, moving away from corporate or "supplemental" teaching toward direct relationship. Process vs. Event: Growth was described as "little by little" (Exodus 23:30) to prevent the believer from being overwhelmed. Maturity requires renewing the mind rather than relying on "magic prayers."Logos vs. Rhema: While teachers provide Logos (the written Word), only the Holy Spirit provides Rhema (revealed, living Word). Participants were encouraged to be disciples of Jesus rather than followers of people in high positions within the church realm.The Humanity of Christ: There was a deep dive into the significance of Jesus coming in the flesh. Denying His humanity was labeled a "spirit of antichrist," as it undermines the legal condemnation of sin in human flesh.Practical Application and Boundaries The group shared personal anecdotes regarding the application of these spiritual truths in daily life. Marriage and Submission: Stephanie and others discussed submission not as forced obedience, but as a heart posture of love. They highlighted the importance of maintaining boundaries against "guilt-led" control from family or friends.The "Budget" Anecdote: A lighthearted example was shared about a minor conflict over a buried desk calendar, illustrating how quickly "darkness" (frustration) can enter a situation and how "mercy and grace" are required to resolve it without escalating.Imagination as a Tool: The group discussed using the imagination to "walk out" the Word, citing studies where athletes grew muscle through mental rehearsal. Similarly, believers should imagine themselves laying hands on the sick or walking in favor.The Remnant in the "End Times" The dialogue concluded with a look at the current cultural landscape, including the rise of "bizarre beliefs" like UFOs and demonic experiences. The Thinning Veil: It was suggested that as the end approaches, the veil between realms is thinning, leading to more supernatural experiences for the unchurched.The Church’s Role: The group posited that the traditional "rules-based" church is defenseless against these experiences. Only a "remnant" established in the light and the power of the Holy Spirit will be able to offer a substantive alternative to those deceived by the world. A podcast for the hopeless and those struggling with their relationship with God. A Christian bible study with experienced believers who have been through the religious world and navigated their way to a relationship with Jesus!Support the show KingdomConversations25@gmail.com

  7. Sep 4

    The New Religion Emerging (3 of 3)

    Email us: KingdomConversations25@gmail.com Could the growing UFO disclosure movement be infiltrating the Church with a spiritual deception hiding in plain sight? Tony Merkel sits down with Paul Bock for a powerful discussion about the growing UFO phenomenon and the belief system forming around non-human intelligence. Paul opens up about the controversial pastors meeting and explains the warning he believes the Church urgently needs to hear. The conversation examines whether modern encounters with NHI could connect to ancient spiritual realities and a much larger deception unfolding around disclosure. As interest in contact and UAPs continues to grow, Paul challenges Christians to test these claims against Scripture rather than simply accept the answers being offered. This episode will challenge how you see UFO disclosure and leave you asking one crucial question: what are we really making contact with? Please pray for Tony's wife, Lindsay, as she battles breast cancer. Your prayers make a difference! If you’re able, consider helping the Merkel family with medical expenses by donating to Lindsay’s GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/b8f76890 🚨 Join Our Exclusive Community 🔗 Get early access to exclusive content:    / theconfessionalspodcast 📕 Pre-order Tony's Book: https://a.co/d/0bJS3SaV 📰 Subscribe to Our Newsletter: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.c... 📚 Tony's Recommended Reads: https://slingshotlibrary.com If you want to learn about Jesus and what it means to be saved: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.c... 🌟 Paul Bock Instagram:   / paul.the.bock Book: https://a.co/d/02rncLd2 🔔 Subscribe for More Content 👉    / @theconfessionalspodcast 💬 Leave a Comment! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Connect With Us: 🛜 Website: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.com/ 📧 Email: contact@theconfessionalspodcast.com 📢 FOLLOW US: 🟣 Instagram:   / theconfessionalspodcast ❌ X: https://x.com/TConfessionals 🔵 Facebook:   / theconfessionalspodcast 📌 Website: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.com 📚 Reddit:   / theconfessionals 💬 Discord:   / discord 📬 Mailing Address: Merkel Media 6726 Morganton Rd P.O. Box #08 Greenback, TN 37742 Support the show KingdomConversations25@gmail.com

  8. Sep 2

    The New Religion Emerging (2 of 3)

    Email us: KingdomConversations25@gmail.com Could the growing UFO disclosure movement be infiltrating the Church with a spiritual deception hiding in plain sight? Tony Merkel sits down with Paul Bock for a powerful discussion about the growing UFO phenomenon and the belief system forming around non-human intelligence. Paul opens up about the controversial pastors meeting and explains the warning he believes the Church urgently needs to hear. The conversation examines whether modern encounters with NHI could connect to ancient spiritual realities and a much larger deception unfolding around disclosure. As interest in contact and UAPs continues to grow, Paul challenges Christians to test these claims against Scripture rather than simply accept the answers being offered. This episode will challenge how you see UFO disclosure and leave you asking one crucial question: what are we really making contact with? Please pray for Tony's wife, Lindsay, as she battles breast cancer. Your prayers make a difference! If you’re able, consider helping the Merkel family with medical expenses by donating to Lindsay’s GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/b8f76890 🚨 Join Our Exclusive Community 🔗 Get early access to exclusive content:    / theconfessionalspodcast 📕 Pre-order Tony's Book: https://a.co/d/0bJS3SaV 📰 Subscribe to Our Newsletter: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.c... 📚 Tony's Recommended Reads: https://slingshotlibrary.com If you want to learn about Jesus and what it means to be saved: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.c... 🌟 Paul Bock Instagram:   / paul.the.bock Book: https://a.co/d/02rncLd2 🔔 Subscribe for More Content 👉    / @theconfessionalspodcast 💬 Leave a Comment! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Connect With Us: 🛜 Website: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.com/ 📧 Email: contact@theconfessionalspodcast.com 📢 FOLLOW US: 🟣 Instagram:   / theconfessionalspodcast ❌ X: https://x.com/TConfessionals 🔵 Facebook:   / theconfessionalspodcast 📌 Website: https://www.theconfessionalspodcast.com 📚 Reddit:   / theconfessionals 💬 Discord:   / discord 📬 Mailing Address: Merkel Media 6726 Morganton Rd P.O. Box #08 Greenback, TN 37742 Support the show KingdomConversations25@gmail.com

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About

We wanted to give others a chance to listen in on three friends who love Jesus talking about the word and truth. Each week we will release an entire conversation that is about an hour and a half. Every conversation will be three parts and be around thirty minutes each episode. Every Monday will be part 1, Wednesday part 2 and Friday part 3, and every week is a different conversation. We pray you find hope in every episode as we discuss different topics. These conversations may challenge you or encourage you. Always ask the Father about what you hear and let Him confirm His truth to you; never take what anyone says as truth without confirmation from Holy Spirit. We hope you are blessed by these podcasts!

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