Advertise on podcast: The Gospel Shaped Family Podcast

Most parents know their children are using AI for homework. Far fewer know that 70% of teens have used an AI companion app, and about half are regular users, developing an ongoing "relationship" with an avatar that talks back. In this episode, Josh and Jen sit down with Jeremiah May, a homeschool dad of three, a former educator, and the producer behind this show, to unpack what AI actually is, how it's showing up in children' s lives, and what parents can do about it. Jeremiah walks through the practical basics first: what makes generative AI different from a search engine, why he tells his own children (and his ministry team) to treat anything typed into an AI tool like a postcard that anyone could read, and a personal story about an AI editing tool that accidentally lifted 15 to 20 percent of a published book, word for word, from a book. From there the conversation moves into the harder questions: when AI homework help becomes cheating, why AI companion apps raise real concerns about children substituting a lifeless interaction for real relationship, and where the line sits between using AI as a tool and leaning on it as a crutch. Underneath it all is a simple conviction: a child's ability to think well, whether about AI or anything else, is built on the same foundation it has always taken, logic, biblical literacy, and a home where truth gets tested against Scripture. Jeremiah offers parents a clear, workable way to think about AI boundaries that doesn't require becoming an expert overnight. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://xypmuf.s.gy/50gsfpc  Renewanation: https://xypmuf.s.gy/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfhpc    Sign up to get regular updates: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfpem

Arlene Pellicane has a sobering number for parents: if a boy plays video games a fairly conservative ten hours a week starting at age nine, he'll have spent a full year of his life in front of a gaming console by the time he's twenty-one. If a girl is on social media the similar amount of time, she will spend a full year of her life on social media. In this episode, Arlene, author of The Great Tech Reset: Reclaiming Real Life for Christian Families, joins Josh and Jen to talk honestly about what screens are costing our children and what to do about it. Arlene walks through her ABCD framework for the harms of unchecked screen time, why boredom is a gift rather than a problem to solve, and why delaying a phone or social media account tends to produce a more mature, self-governed teenager than handing one over early and hoping to monitor it. She also unpacks two of the most common myths parents use to justify giving kids devices sooner than they should. This conversation goes beyond screen time limits to the deeper stewardship question underneath: what is discipling our children when we're not watching? Arlene makes the case that families have an opportunity, not just a restriction, in front of them, and offers a practical, faith-rooted starting point for any family ready to reclaim real life together. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://xypmuf.s.gy/50gsfpc  Renewanation: https://xypmuf.s.gy/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfhpc    Sign up to get regular updates: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfpem     Grab a free copy of The Great Tech Reset at TechResetBook.com (while supplies last, courtesy of Summit Ministries)

Every parent, grandparent, pastor, and educator is a teacher, whether or not that title is on a door. The real question is not whether we are teaching. It is whether anyone is actually learning. In this episode, Josh and Jen make the case that a student's failure to learn is often a teacher's failure to teach, and that the two are far more connected than our modern education system admits. Josh and Jen walk through five practices of highly effective teachers: knowing that the purpose of teaching is learning, building a theology of teaching before you build a lesson plan, sharpening communication so your message does its job, rightly handling the Word of God, and driving toward one central big idea instead of scattering a dozen. Along the way they cover the Hebrew connection between teaching and learning in Deuteronomy, why curriculum fads like outcomes-based education and social-emotional learning keep cycling through schools, and how unclear positions on doctrine undermines the authority of Scripture in the living room or classroom. This is foundational work for anyone stewarding the next generation. Teaching is a lot like gardening. Planting seeds is the easy part. The watering, the weeding, and the tending contributes to the amount of fruit. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://xypmuf.s.gy/50gsfpc  Renewanation: https://xypmuf.s.gy/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfhpc    Sign up to get regular updates: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfpem

When a child you've raised in the faith walks away from Jesus, the pain can feel overwhelming. Guilt, shame, and confusion often follow—but you're not alone. In nearly every audience Josh speaks to, over 50% of parents admit to having a child not walking with the Lord. In this episode, Josh and Jen address one of the most painful questions families face: What do I do now? Drawing from Scripture and pastoral experience, they walk through seven specific, biblical actions parents can take to navigate this heartbreaking season with faith, humility, and hope. From daily prayer and prioritizing relationship over control to welcoming your child home and trusting God's timing, this conversation offers both comfort and direction for parents in crisis. If you're struggling with a prodigal child, this episode is for you. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://xypmuf.s.gy/50gsfpc  Renewanation: https://xypmuf.s.gy/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfhpc    Sign up to get regular updates: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfpem

When children are in the picture, the budget tightens fast. Diapers, clothes, phones, college—the expenses never stop. But not all spending is equal. In this episode, Josh and Jen share five investments they've made in their family that have genuinely paid dividends in health, relationships, and spiritual growth. From organic food and quality books to family vacations and date nights, these aren't luxuries—they're stewardship decisions that strengthen your home for the long haul. Plus, a bonus tip on why Christmas cards matter more than you'd think. If you're trying to be wise with family finances while investing in what truly matters, this conversation will help you reimagine where your money goes and why it's worth it. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://xypmuf.s.gy/50gsfpc  Renewanation: https://xypmuf.s.gy/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfhpc    Sign up to get regular updates: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfpem

Biblical illiteracy is a growing problem among young Christians, and the numbers are sobering. In this episode, Josh and Jen unpack what the research actually shows about Bible reading and biblical worldview, and why the two are so closely connected. They walk through seven practical, doable steps parents and grandparents can take to help children grow familiar with Scripture, from building a daily reading habit to teaching the Bible's big story of creation, rebellion, redemption, and restoration. You'll also hear why giving your child their own full-text Bible matters, and how tools like commentaries and concordances can help children study Scripture on their own. This episode is a practical roadmap for any parent who wants their children rooted in God's Word for life. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://xypmuf.s.gy/50gsfpc  Renewanation: https://xypmuf.s.gy/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfhpc    Sign up to get regular updates: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfpem

Prayer is one of those things every parent knows matters, but it can be hard to turn that conviction into a daily habit. In this episode, Josh and Jen sit down with Sherry Schumann, author and longtime leader of the Christian Grandparenting Network, to talk honestly about what it looks like to pray for the people we love most. Sherry shares why prayer is foundational to discipling the next generation, how to pray Scripture over specific fears and struggles, and what to do when God says no or wait instead of yes. She also offers practical, low-pressure ways to teach children to pray and leaves listeners with a challenge: what will you pass down as your own legacy of prayer? Whether you're a young parent trying to carve out five minutes a day or a grandparent hoping to leave something lasting behind, this conversation will give you real, workable steps forward. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://xypmuf.s.gy/50gsfpc  Renewanation: https://xypmuf.s.gy/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfhpc    Sherry Schumann: https://sherryschumann.com/   Sign up to get regular updates: https://xypmuf.s.gy/gsfpem

Fall means one thing for homeschool families: planning. In this episode, Josh and Jen open up their own homeschool playbook, the five core principles that have guided their family through sixteen years of homeschooling, and exactly what curriculum and daily rhythm they are using this year for kids in sixth, eighth, tenth, and twelfth grade. From a daily routine that starts with morning jobs and Bible reading, to a literature based approach to learning, to how they are preparing their oldest two for college through PSEO and dual credit classes, Josh and Jen walk through the practical decisions behind their homeschool year. Whether you are new to homeschooling, a longtime veteran, or simply curious what a homeschool day actually looks like, this episode offers a real, grounded look at planning an education that forms both the mind and the heart. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc

Who is Generation Alpha, and what are they up against? In this episode, Josh and Jen sit down with author and Renewanation team member Janine McNally to unpack the defining marks of today's youngest generation, from constant screen exposure to the erosion of the nuclear family to a worldview battle over truths that past generations never had to question. Janine, author of When You See Fireflies: Equipping Leaders and Parents to Minister Effectively to Generation Alpha, shares what she is seeing in her research and in her own family, including how the Covid years shaped this generation's trust in authority and why so many kids today carry a diagnosis their parents' generation never did. Janine points parents and grandparents back to the basics: biblical boundaries, a home that prioritizes God's Word, and a family rhythm built on truth rather than trend. Stick around to the end for a fun (and humbling) round of Gen Alpha slang, tested live on Janine. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    When You See Fireflies: Equipping Leaders and Parents to Minister Effectively to Generation Alpha by Janine McNally: https://a.co/d/09M6lrmO

Every child eventually asks for a pet, and parents are faced with a significant decision. While animals require financial sacrifice, training, and daily care, they also bring profound joy and companionship into a home. In this episode of the Gospel Shaped Family podcast, Josh and Jen share their family history with animals, from childhood experiences to managing dogs, cats, and farm livestock. They explore the foundational reasons why adding a pet to your home is a beneficial choice for discipleship. Animals provide a tangible way for children to understand God's creation and practice the biblical mandate of having dominion over the earth. We also discuss practical ways to leverage pet ownership for character development. By giving children age appropriate responsibilities, families can teach stewardship and use the natural cycles of an animal's life to prompt meaningful conversations about life, death, and the gospel. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc

Memorizing the Bible is foundational to spiritual growth and cultivating Christlikeness in the next generation. In this episode of the Gospel Shaped Family podcast, Josh and Jen discuss the vital mandate of hiding God's Word in the hearts of our children. While children can easily memorize sports statistics or a new language, parents have the profound opportunity to leverage this natural ability to impress the truths of the Bible on their minds.  We explore practical strategies to make scripture memory a seamless and joyful part of your family routine. From partnering with grandparents for weekly accountability to placing key verses strategically around your home, this conversation provides actionable steps to start today. We also share helpful resources like music and church programs that support a structured and engaging approach to learning the Bible.   Join us as we lay a theological foundation for why scripture memory matters and how it equips children to triumph over temptation and live in obedience to God.  Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc

Discipling children requires intentional tools, and great literature serves as a powerful method for shaping a biblical worldview. In this episode, Dr. Josh and Jen Mulvihill discuss how reading aloud can help your family grow closer to Christ. They explain that the Bible is the foundational book for every home, and all other literature should be read in light of its ultimate truth. Great books expand our vision, teach clear morality, and properly prepare the next generation for the realities of the world. The Mulvihills explore the mandate to replace screens with meaningful stories that captivate the imagination. They also address the common question of whether Christian families should read fantasy and fairy tales, drawing wisdom from authors like C.S. Lewis to show how these specific stories build courage. Tune in to discover practical ways to make reading a joyful routine in your home. Josh and Jen also share their current reading lists, including helpful recommendations for parents and an exciting summer book club idea for children. Embrace the stewardship of your child's mind by filling your shelves with excellent stories that point directly to the gospel.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc

Navigating the topic of baptism with your children is a foundational step in building a legacy of faith. In this episode, Dr. Josh and Jen Mulvihill look to scripture as the final standard to explore the clear biblical mandate for believer’s baptism. They discuss what it means to be baptized as a Christ follower and why it serves as a bold, public declaration of a relationship with Jesus. The Mulvihills will help you understand the profound distinction between infant dedication and believer’s baptism. Josh and Jen provide practical wisdom on determining when a child is spiritually mature enough to be baptized. They favor a delay for maturity approach to ensure children can clearly articulate the true gospel and personally own their faith. You will also learn the biblical progression of entering the church family through baptism before participating in the communion table. Tune in for clear steps to help prepare your child for this crucial act of obedience. From assessing their understanding of God's saving grace to meeting with your local church pastor, this conversation equips you to confidently guide your family.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc    Believer’s Baptism book: https://bit.ly/4fkprId

Our children are growing up in a culture that constantly teaches them what to believe about truth, identity, morality, and happiness. In this episode, Josh Mulvihill explains why worldview is not an abstract idea but the lens that shapes every belief, choice, and direction of a child’s life. He shows how cultural messages quietly shape children unless parents and churches are intentional about teaching God’s truth. Josh defines what a biblical worldview is, explains how secular ideas influence even well-meaning Christians, and outlines the main forces shaping children today. He walks through the roles of parents, grandparents, screens, education, friends, and the church, helping listeners see where influence is strongest and where gaps often exist. He also introduces a simple biblical framework for worldview formation rooted in creation, rebellion, salvation, and restoration. This episode equips parents, grandparents, and church leaders to move from reacting to culture to intentionally discipling children. It offers clear biblical foundations, practical warnings, and hopeful direction for raising children who are rooted in God’s Word and able to stand firm in a confusing world.   Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc   Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc    Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc

Many modern parents want to give their children a compelling vision of faith but are unsure where to begin. Teaching church history provides a powerful framework for family discipleship, offering real-world examples of individuals who navigated complex cultural challenges with unwavering biblical conviction. In this episode, we introduce three dynamic, high-capacity women who prioritized their homes during early adulthood, honed their God-given skills, and eventually impacted countless souls with the gospel on a global scale. We trace the remarkable life choices and spiritual trajectories of Susanna Wesley, Corrie ten Boom, and Edith Schaeffer. You will discover how their profound theological foundations affected their practical day-to-day decisions, from educating children in difficult seasons to practicing radical hospitality and fighting systemic evil. Whether you are a mother looking to maximize your current season of domestic stewardship or a father seeking to inspire your household, these historic legacies offer an essential blueprint for building a multigenerational legacy of faith. Book 50 Things Every Child Needs to Know Before Leaving Home: https://bit.ly/50thingspc Renewanation: https://bit.ly/rangsfpc  Gospel Shaped Family Homepage: https://bit.ly/gsfhpc