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Barry and Jonathan chat about all of the things they are reading and listening to recently. They also discuss an article from Christianity Today called "AI is Weakening Pastors' Authority." If you would like to read that article you can find it at: www.christianitytoday.com/2026/10/ai-is-weakening-pastors-authority/

Barry and Jonathan reflect on the Builders Meeting and the end of September. They engage in discussion around topics relating to the sermon from this past Sunday on the barren fig tree and different ways we can understand the Bible.

In the parable of the barren fig tree, Jesus reminds us that God’s patience is greater than we often imagine, giving us space to grow, change, and bear fruit. This space provides us the invitation to receive God’s care and grow in grace, mercy, and love.

Barry and Jonathan discuss the sermon from this past Sunday, focusing on the parable of the rich fool. Following that, they discuss economic systems like capitalism and socialism.

In a world that tells us we need more to be secure, Jesus invites us to consider what we are really asking our possessions to provide. Through the parable of the rich fool, we’ll explore what it means to trust God enough to hold what we have differently.

Jonathan loves parables! He and Barry talk about that some and the sermon from last week. They also spend a few moments reflecting on the anniversary of September 11.

We begin our study of the parables through the story of the persistent widow. Jesus invites us to consider what it means to keep praying when answers don’t come quickly or circumstances don’t change. We are reminded that prayer is an ongoing posture of trust in God.

Barry and Jonathan discuss odd news as well as reflect on a podcast that Barry enjoys, focusing on the teachings of none other than Thomas Merton.  News stories mentioned: - Competitors dig deep in Hungarian grave-digging contest - British police try to track down theft of 70,000 pints worth of Guinness stout Turning to the Mystics Podcast (Season 1, Episode 5) - Turning to the Mystics — CAC Podcast with James Finley

We conclude Roman's by Paul recognizing all of the ordinary people who were extraordinarily important in his ministry. We will reflect on these people and share the stories of the ordinary people who have made an extraordinary impact in our lives as well.

Yes, you read the title correctly. I know it's hard to imagine Barry or Jonathan having a sermon fail but it has happened and they will share the stories. They also reflect on a major award for New Circle.

Barry and Jonathan are joined by Shanna Aucker. We will get to learn more about Shanna, how God led her to New Circle, and her passion for volunteering.

As we begin Romans 15, we will focus on Paul's hopes for unity, founded in Christ, Scripture, and God's overwhelming heart for all people.

We are back this week with a new podcast focusing on strange news involving cannonballs and fashion. We end the time by continuing the discussion from the sermon on Sunday by looking at how Christians with different convictions can live with one another.

This week we will focus on the final section of Romans 14 as Paul breaks down what welcoming one another like Christ looks like in practice.

We will examine the importance of living in community with one another, in light of our complexities and differences, and how Christ impacts and empowers those relationships.