Choose Christ Completely

Brandon Kegley and Justin May

4.9 (12)
Christianity

Equip Christian leaders and small groups with Discovery Bible Study method as we go through the commands and character of Jesus. Ask us a question, send a prayer request or share your thoughts: https://chilhowiechurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/1136842

Oct 7

You Weren't Made To Do Life Alone!

When life knocks you down, who’s there to help you back up? In this episode of Choose Christ Completely, Justin May and Brandon Kegley explore Ecclesiastes 4:7–12 and why “two are better than one” matters for our friendships, families, and faith. From the challenge of building close friendships as men to the temptation to let technology replace real conversations, we talk honestly about why we need people—and why making room for them takes effort. Along the way, there’s family banter, an update on the Blacksburg church plant, and a motorcycle challenge Brandon might regret. Who has your back—and whose back do you have? Join the conversation and take one step toward deeper community this week. Takeaways Importance of companionshipBalancing family and personal time AI impacts human interactionCommunity is essential for well-beingChapters 00:00 The Value of Companionship07:32 Navigating Family Dynamics14:13 Community Engagement and Church Planting20:55 The Role of Small Groups in Church32:14 The Rise of AI and Loneliness34:03 The Impact of AI on Relationships36:04 Finding Balance with AI40:13 The Need for Community43:23 Masculinity and Community Dynamics49:16 The Importance of Brotherhood54:10 God's Design for Community56:25 Lessons on Humanity and TogethernessMusic licensed through Soundstripe. Code: 7A29XMKFLYNUEFFI
Sep 21

Everything is Meaningless

Ever catch yourself thinking, “If I could just get there, I’d finally be happy”? More money. More success. One more accomplishment. But what happens when you get what you wanted—and it still isn’t enough? Join Justin May and Brandon Kegley on Choose Christ Completely as they explore Ecclesiastes 1:1–11 and the exhausting pursuit of “more.” Through honest conversation and practical Bible study, they discuss why achievement can leave us empty, how Jesus changes our perspective, and what it means to invest in things that last. From parenting to everyday relationships, this episode challenges us to ask: Are we simply staying busy, or are we investing in people with eternity in mind? Grab your Bible, listen with a friend or small group, and consider two questions: What does God want me to do with what I’ve heard—and who needs me to share it? Wanna share questions? prayer requests? or thoughts? Click HERE Takeaways Vanity and the cyclical nature of life are central themes in Ecclesiastes 1:1-11.Different translations of the text offer unique insights and interpretations of the original Hebrew.The word 'Quester' in the original Hebrew provides a specific and intriguing label for the author of Ecclesiastes. Meaning of lifePursuit of successCyclical nature of historyInvesting in othersSeeking God's ultimate goal Chapters 00:00 Fall Decorations and Ecclesiastes 1:1-1115:01 Exploring Ecclesiastes 1:1-1122:36 The Pursuit of Success and Meaning24:06 The Light in the Dark26:27 Generational Wealth and Failure30:01 Psychology and Biblical Truth32:06 The Eternal Purpose38:23 The Challenge of Running the Race42:39 Learning from History46:00 The Wisdom of Ecclesiastes Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: YELHUVUIHA3I5AMR
Sep 11

What are you sitting in?

In this episode of Choose Christ Completely, Justin May and Brandon Kegley explore Psalm 1 and its warning about the gradual progression from walking, to standing, to finally sitting among influences that pull us away from God. Together, they discuss delighting in Scripture, recognizing harmful ideas, balancing grace and truth, and helping the people we love avoid destructive paths. What shapes your thinking when you finally sit down—and are God’s priorities becoming your priorities? Open your Bible to Psalm 1 and join the conversation. Wanna share questions? prayer requests? or thoughts? Click HERE Takeaways Dolly Parton's impact on popular culture and her philanthropy.The approach to sermon series and the interpretation of Psalm One. Bible translation comparisonComplexity of reading the BiblePastors' responsibility to confront ideologiesImpact of priorities on children's convictions Chapters 00:00 Remembering Dolly Parton02:30 Dolly's Branding and Philanthropy10:58 Approach to Sermon Series27:31 Reading and Analysis of Psalm One30:41 Bible Translation Comparison31:37 Complexity of Reading the Bible34:42 Pastors' Responsibility to Confront Ideologies59:47 Impact of Priorities on Children's Convictions Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: QNE7E4FQNTHOL4GS
Sep 1

Can these bones come to life again? | Ezekiel 37

What do you say when the situation in front of you looks completely hopeless? In Ezekiel 37, God leads Ezekiel into a valley filled with dry bones and asks him an impossible question: “Can these bones live?” Ezekiel doesn’t ignore the reality of the valley—but he also doesn’t allow what he sees to become more powerful than what God has said. In this episode of Choose Christ Completely, Justin May and Brandon Kegley explore the historical setting of Ezekiel, the meaning of God’s breath, and the difference between speaking empty optimism and speaking God’s truth over seemingly hopeless situations. Together, they ask: • What have I been saying? • Is it true? • Does it agree with God? • What has God actually said? • What truth do I need to speak? Our words can deepen despair, but God’s Word can breathe hope into the driest valleys. When God makes a promise, He keeps it—even when the fulfillment doesn’t happen immediately or look the way we expected. Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1–14 Choose Christ Completely is a podcast from Chilhowie Christian Church featuring honest conversations and practical tools to help you study Scripture and follow Jesus completely. Wanna share questions? prayer requests? or thoughts? Click HERE Takeaways Ezekiel is a complex and challenging book with difficult themes and prophecies.The historical context of Ezekiel provides valuable insights into the split of Israel and the detailed historical events recorded in the book. The impact of spoken words is significantGod's promise keeping and the consequences of spoken words are key themes Chapters 00:00 The Complexity of Ezekiel05:08 Historical Context of Ezekiel08:19 Interpreting Prophecies in Ezekiel10:51 Sermon Preparation and Application16:10 Exploring Ezekiel 37:1-1426:30 The Prophecy of Jesus28:40 Ezekiel's Captivity and Vision30:01 The Power of Spoken Words40:46 God's Promise and People's Words Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: JYKHEAS8BCYJF4HJ
Aug 27

Full of Nothing

It’s possible to fill your mind all day and still be spiritually starving. In this episode, Justin May and Brandon Kegley use the Discovery Bible Study method to explore Ephesians 4:17–24 and ask what happens when our thoughts drift away from God’s truth. What are you allowing to shape your mind? Where might you be wandering without realizing it? And what does it actually look like to “let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes”? Join the conversation as Justin and Brandon discuss how we can throw off the old way of living, learn the truth found in Jesus, and put on the new nature God created us to live. Wanna share questions? prayer requests? or thoughts? Click HERE Takeaways Parenting involves the delicate balance of providing guidance and freedom to children.Teaching children the 'why' behind instructions is crucial for their understanding and development. Parenting: Teaching children to seek God and fostering emotional authenticity is a challenging but essential aspect of parenting.Renewal of the Mind: The passage from Ephesians highlights the importance of renewing the mind and the impact of emotions on our relationship with God and others. Chapters 00:00 Living as Children of the Light11:00 Parenting and Training Children21:45 The Importance of 'Why' in Teaching27:49 Parenting and Seeking God28:57 Emotional Authenticity and Vulnerability29:25 Renewal of the Mind and Impact of Emotions Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: RJKDEVTR8Z7OBRKR
Aug 19

What lie are you defending?

What starts as a simple comment can become a label. A label can become a belief. And brick by brick, that belief can become a stronghold you eventually start defending yourself. In this episode, Justin May and Brandon Kegley use the Discovery Bible Study method to walk through 2 Corinthians 10:1–6 and Paul’s challenge to tear down strongholds, destroy false arguments, and take our thoughts captive to Christ. We’ll talk about the lies we’ve allowed to live rent-free in our minds, how half-truths become deeply held beliefs, and what it looks like to stop defending the castle we’ve built and start replacing those lies with the truth of God. What lie have you believed so long that it just feels like who you are? Wanna share questions? prayer requests? or thoughts? Click HERE Takeaways Controlling thoughts and environment is crucial for personal growth.Choosing friends and influences is an important aspect of character development. The influence of criticism varies, and constructive criticism can lead to positive change.The battle against strongholds requires an understanding of obedience and the difference between full and perfect obedience. Chapters 00:00 Testing the Waters01:09 Internet Problems and Solutions02:58 Dealing with Storms and Rain04:39 Pool Maintenance and Chemistry08:08 Controlling Thoughts and Environment13:31 Choosing Friends and Influences19:44 Discovery Bible Study: 2 Corinthians 10:1-1830:19 The Impact of Criticism30:52 The Weight of Personal Criticism32:17 The Influence of Constructive Criticism33:14 The Challenge of Being Right34:20 The Temptation to Always Be Right35:39 The Importance of Listening to Disagreements37:44 The Danger of Strongholds38:46 The Battle Against Strongholds43:26 Understanding Strongholds and Obedience44:24 The Difference Between Full and Perfect Obedience46:39 The Role of Strongholds in Obedience54:42 The Power of Words and Thoughts59:18 The Importance of Admitting Weakness Music licensed through Soundstripe. Code: V0VLXLMGMQWTVIKN, QSBCG6PURSWUFB3O
Aug 11

Who Is Shaping Your Mind? | Romans 12:1-2

What you think about shapes how you feel, how you respond, how you treat people—and ultimately who you become. In Romans 12:1–2, Paul tells us not to be shaped by the patterns of this world, but to let God transform us by changing the way we think. In this podcast, Brand and Justin look at how our minds are constantly being trained by what we watch, scroll, listen to, and dwell on—and what it looks like to intentionally allow God to renew our minds. The question isn’t simply, “What am I thinking about?” Wanna share questions? prayer requests? or thoughts? Click HERE Takeaways The use of supplementary texts in sermons can draw different insights and perspectives.The interpretation of a Bible verse can vary based on the translation used. Biblical interpretation and applicationTransformation and change of mindset Information overload can have financial implications and hinder the ability to discern important insights.Intentional focus, music, and environment play a significant role in preparing the mind for transformation and insight.The tension between conforming to the world and being transformed by God is a central theme, highlighting the need for balance and discernment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Season Two01:27 Small Groups and Interest-Based Communities03:00 Discreet Communication and Strong Opinions06:15 Lifelong Learning and Changing Perspectives13:36 Exploring Bible Verses and Translations20:53 The English Standard and Biblical Interpretation21:39 The Shema and Application of Biblical Principles22:25 Transition to the Application of Biblical Principles23:17 Tension Between Meeting People and Transformation25:05 The Unique Nature of Christianity in Transformation26:11 The Role of the Gospel in Meeting and Transforming Cultures27:33 The Sermon on the Mount and Cultural Transformation28:00 Historical Examples of Societal Transformation31:08 The Four Questions and Liked Aspects of the Passage33:34 Conformity and Transformation of the Mind36:58 The Power of Shifting the Mind and Transformation41:40 The Challenge of Transformation and Change of Mindset01:04:09 Purpose of the Podcast
Jun 23

What Do You Do When God Seems Asleep?

Have you ever felt like God was asleep in the middle of your storm? The disciples certainly did. Join Brandon and Justin in discovery of Matthew 8:23-27: Jesus will lead his disciples into the boatSuddenly a great storm will threatenSeasoned fishermen will panicJesus speaks over nature What do you do when life falls apart unexpectedly? What do you do when obedience leads you into trouble? And what do you do when it feels like God is silent, distant, or asleep? Wanna share questions? prayer requests? or thoughts? Click HERE Takeaways The Calming of the StormInterpretation and Analysis The interplay of fear and faith in the face of an unnatural storm.The significance of God's love, sacrifice, and the concept of faith.The struggle with human impatience, panic, and the testing of faith.The importance of equipping and discipling others, and the model for discipleship. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Choose Christ Completely08:40 Discussion on Soccer and World Cup Viewership13:42 Soccer as the World's Game19:00 Physical Demands of Soccer26:07 Qualifying for the World Cup45:10 Unnatural Storm55:32 God's Love and Sacrifice01:04:13 Equipping and Discipling

4.9

out of 5

12 Ratings

Equip Christian leaders and small groups with Discovery Bible Study method as we go through the commands and character of Jesus. Ask us a question, send a prayer request or share your thoughts: https://chilhowiechurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/1136842

Creator

Brandon Kegley and Justin May
Years Active

2026
Episodes

26
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2026 Brandon Kegley and Justin May