In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike explores Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) from a biblical counseling perspective with special guest Beth Claes. The discussion differentiates between the DSM-5 definition of NPD and cultural perceptions of narcissism. Key characteristics such as self-absorption, desire for admiration, and lack of empathy are analyzed alongside biblical teachings, framing narcissism as idolatry. The conversation highlights the challenges and importance of reconciliation and healthy conflict resolution in Christian relationships. Additionally, the episode addresses the complexities of navigating relationships marred by narcissistic behavior and advocates for wise counsel, prayerful engagement, and mentorship to balance recognizing dysfunction while offering hope for redemption through Christ.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:30 Discussing Narcissistic Personality Disorder

01:12 Cultural vs. Clinical Narcissism

03:52 Biblical Perspective on Narcissism

05:11 Challenges in Identifying Narcissism

06:05 Handling Relationships with Narcissists

07:40 The Misuse of Psychological Labels

09:50 Narcissism and the Gospel's Response

11:06 Engaging with Narcissistic Behaviors

13:08 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Episode Mentions
Beth's Blog

This episode of the Speak the Truth podcast, with special guest, Beth Claes, focuses on understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) through a biblical framework. They discuss the prevalence of anxiety in modern culture and how GAD is often a catch-all diagnosis for persistent anxiety not tied to specific situations. The hosts emphasize the importance of engaging with people who have these psychological labels and how to think about anxiety from a Christian perspective. Beth introduces the symptoms of GAD and explains how the Bible provides a complex and compassionate view of fearing emotions like anxiety, more than just physiological or experiential explanations. The conversation highlights the need to not merely rely on psychological descriptors but to incorporate biblical truths in addressing mental health issues. Listeners are encouraged to confront and understand their anxiety through reliance on God, fostering a more holistic approach to counseling in the church.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:25 Recap and Introduction to Anxiety

02:32 Understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder

03:37 Symptoms and Personal Experiences

08:02 Biblical Perspective on Anxiety

11:26 Complexities and Biblical Framework

14:34 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael and special guest Beth Claes, a Counseling Director and biblical counselor, delve into the topic of codependency. Beth shares her insights from a background in psychology and biblical counseling, discussing how codependency manifests in relationships and how it is not a diagnosable disorder in the DSM. They explore the biblical framework for understanding codependency, identifying it as a form of 'fear of man' and misplaced identity. The conversation extends to practical advice on dealing with codependency within various relationships, emphasizing the importance of setting healthy boundaries and finding one's identity in God. Join them as they unpack the complexities of codependency and its implications for biblical counseling.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:24 Introducing Special Guest Beth Claes

01:27 Understanding Codependency

03:58 Biblical Perspective on Codependency

04:48 Addressing Codependency in Relationships

13:00 Challenges in Labeling and Misconceptions

18:41 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

22:17 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

Episode Mentions
New Heights Church where Beth serves
Beth's Blog–Wrestled Faith
Beth's story from Psychologist to Biblical Counselor - Speak the Truth EP. 140

In this episode, Mike is joined by special guest, Robert Cheong from Gospel Care Ministries to discuss various gaps in church discipleship and ministry, emphasizing the importance of personal and communal abiding in Christ. They highlight the 'faith gap' where individuals lack confidence in living out the gospel, and how it affects church programs, community, and leadership. Robert outlines personal challenges categorized into gaps in people's stories, hearts, and wants, which contribute to these faith gaps. The solution proposed focuses on prioritizing personal and communal abiding in Christ, which fuels life and forms ministry. Practical tips for addressing these issues in local churches are provided, with a call for churches to reimagine their ministry approaches around abiding in Christ.

Fall Hybrid Class Beginning in October 2024
Virtual Class: Level 1 Enrollment with Truth Renewed - Enroll Today

Episode Links
Gospel Care Ministries
Last podcast with Robert Cheong
Latest TGC Blog W/Robert Cheong: Pastor, Are the Gaps in Your Faith Affecting Your Ministry?

In this episode, host Mike discusses a unique opportunity for listeners to join Truth Renewed's hybrid Level One Certification class. He introduces a special guest, Rob Rodriguez from Encounter Ministries, who elaborates on his new eight-week marriage program. Rodriguez, a doctoral student and Director of Biblical Counseling, shares insights about his book and workbook that focus on fostering hope, influence, and fidelity in marriages. He also highlights the upcoming marriage encounter event in Lake Tahoe and how listeners can access these resources and join the program.

Episode Resources
Truth Renewed Level 1 Certification in September
Harmony In Marriage - Amazon
Encounter Ministries

00:00 Introduction and Invitation

00:48 Welcome to Speak the Truth Podcast

01:12 Introducing Rob Rodriguez and Encounter Ministries

01:57 Harmony in Marriage: Book and Resources

04:52 Deep Dive into Marriage Topics

08:21 Facilitator Guide and Group Dynamics

14:34 Upcoming Classes and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Mike announces an invitation to participate in Truth Renewed's hybrid certification class and introduces special guests Michael Snetzer and Brett Smith. They discuss the Gospel Recovery Network and its 'Steps' program, a comprehensive discipleship and recovery curriculum. Michael shares his journey in developing the program, its roots in Celebrate Recovery, and its eventual transformation. Brett adds his personal experiences with 'Steps' and its impact on his faith and ministry. They delve into the unique aspects of the program, emphasizing its theological foundation and practical application, along with its evangelistic potential. The episode also highlights the program's availability for licensing and training for churches, aiming to provide robust gospel-centered recovery solutions.

00:00 Introduction and Invitation to Certification
00:48 Welcome to the Podcast
01:23 Special Guests: Michael Snetzer and Brett Smith
03:11 Michael Snetzer's Journey and Gospel Recovery Network
05:00 Brett Smith's Story and Connection to Michael
11:49 Steps Program: Origins and Evolution
14:59 Steps Program: Structure and Impact
26:34 Evangelistic Potential of Steps
28:18 How to Get Involved with Gospel Recovery Network
32:11 Conclusion and Contact Information

Episode Resources
Citizens Church - Steps
Gospel Recovery Network
Charles Simeon Trust

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth', Mike is joined by guest Robert Cheong from Gospel Care Ministries, as he delves into his meditations on Psalm 25. They explore themes of trusting God, experiencing His steadfast love and faithfulness, and the importance of scripture in personal spiritual growth and church leadership. They emphasize the significance of abiding in Christ, sharing biblical insights with others, and finding comfort in God's Word through life's challenges.

00:00 Introduction and Invitation to Certification

00:48 Welcome to the Podcast

01:09 Conference Highlights and Special Guest Introduction

01:36 Deep Dive into Psalm 25

02:24 Trusting God Through Life's Uncertainties

03:07 Experiencing God's Steadfast Love and Faithfulness

09:35 Encouragement in the Word and Community

11:15 The Importance of Opening the Word

14:52 Abiding in Christ and Walking Together

19:17 The Beauty of the Psalms

20:51 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

Episode Resources
Gospel Care Ministries

In this episode Michael interview's Richard and Shelly Wenschlag, founders of Encounter Ministries, at the ABC Conference 2024. They discuss their ministry's journey from its origins, aimed at fostering deep relationships and connecting individuals with Christ, to becoming a nonprofit organization. The conversation covers the challenges faced in sustaining the spiritual high post-retreat, the importance of vulnerability in fostering connections, and the expansion of their ministry to multiple states. Additionally, they highlight their upcoming marriage encounters and ongoing efforts to integrate deeper counseling support in partnership with local churches.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:24 Meet the Founders of Encounter Ministries

01:12 The Origin and Mission of Encounter Ministries

02:45 The Impact of Vulnerability and Relationship Building

05:23 The Power of Testimony and Freedom in Christ

10:05 Challenges and Growth in Encounter Ministries

14:37 Post-Encounter Experience and Church Integration

19:52 The Role of Counseling in Healing and Growth

25:23 Marriage Encounter: Strengthening Relationships

29:48 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Encounter Ministries Website and Events