In this episode of Tell Me More, hosts Katy Reed Hodges and Luke Stehr speak with guest Curt Grice about Sunday's sermon by Dennis R. Wiles at First Baptist Arlington. The discussion centers on the sermon "Flourishing Formation: Seek God's Kingdom!" based on Matthew 6:25-34.

The conversation examines Pastor Wiles' use of metamorphosis as a conceptual framework for spiritual formation. The hosts and guest analyze the sermon's main points regarding transformation in Christian life, addressing the questions of identity and purpose in spiritual development.

Topics covered include the prohibition against worry, the practice of seeking God's kingdom as a priority, and the promise of divine provision. The discussion references theological perspectives from Dallas Willard, Eugene Peterson, and John Mark Comer on spiritual formation and discipleship.

The episode provides factual information about the contrast between cultural approaches to life and the alternative path of following Jesus. Listeners will hear an analysis of what it means to be "formed, conformed, and transformed" as disciples according to the sermon text.

Join hosts Katy Reed Hodges, Luke Stehr, and special guest Dr. Dennis R. Wiles for an engaging conversation that weaves together summer stories, recent travels, and profound spiritual insights.

The trio shares laughs and reflections on their summer adventures before diving into the heart of the episode – Dr. Wiles' thought-provoking Sunday sermon titled "Flourishing Foundation: Love God!" Dr. Wiles explores the fundamental questions of human existence: Who are we? Why are we here? He illuminates how God designed humans to flourish through loving relationship with Him, drawing from powerful passages in Hosea that remind us of the importance of faithfulness and acknowledgment of God.

Listen as the conversation explores the three dimensions of our connection to the divine – heart as the center of our decision-making, mind as our thought and feeling center, and soul as our integrating principle. Whether you're seeking spiritual growth or simply enjoy heartfelt conversations about life's big questions, this episode offers both warmth and wisdom for your journey.

Join us for a heartwarming episode as we welcome three special guests making their Tell Me More debut! Brian Sepulveda, Curt Grice, and Ryan Chandler sit down to share their experiences with FBCA at Camp and the beloved Riverbend Retreat Center.

In this nostalgic conversation, Curt and Brian take us on a journey through their personal camp histories with FBCA, sharing stories that shaped their lives and faith. From memorable moments around the campfire to life-changing connections made at Riverbend, discover how these camp experiences created lasting impacts that extend far beyond summer weeks.

Ryan Chandler brings fresh perspectives as the trio discusses the evolution of FBCA's camp programs, the unique spirit of Riverbend Retreat Center, and why these experiences remain vital for today's generation. Whether you're a camp alumni, parent, or someone curious about the transformative power of camp ministry, this episode offers insights, laughs, and maybe a few tears as we explore the enduring legacy of FBCA at Camp.

Tune in for stories of friendship, faith, and the timeless magic that happens when community comes together at Riverbend Retreat Center.

In this light-hearted and fun episode of Tell Me More, hosts Katy Reed Hodges, Luke Stehr, and Dr. Dennis Wiles gather around the mic to give you a sneak peek into all the exciting things happening this summer at First Baptist Arlington! From camps and mission trips to special events and Sunday surprises, we’re talking about what’s coming up and why we can’t wait for it. Whether you're a long-time member or just curious about church life in the summer, this preview episode is packed with laughter, stories, and a few behind-the-scenes insights. Tune in and get ready for a great summer with us!

Join hosts Dennis Wiles, Luke Stehr, and Katy Reed Hodges for another engaging episode of "Tell me more" as they dive deep into Dennis's latest Sunday sermon on Colossians 3:1-17. This week, the trio explores what it truly means to live virtuously in Christian community and why love stands as the greatest virtue of all.

Dennis breaks down his powerful message about character transformation - how we exchange our old vices for new virtues as followers of Christ. The hosts discuss the relational nature of Kingdom living and why virtues like compassion, kindness, and patience aren't meant to be practiced in isolation, but rather in the messiness and beauty of community life.

You'll hear insightful conversation about the three B's of Christian community: Belonging (how all barriers dissolve when we belong to Jesus), Believing (being united by the Gospel message), and Behaving (living accountably together for God's glory). The hosts share personal stories, laugh together, and offer practical wisdom on what it looks like to truly flourish in Christian community.

Plus, don't miss their roundup of exciting happenings around the church - from upcoming events to inspiring stories of their congregation living out these virtues in real time.

Whether you're new to faith or a seasoned believer, this episode offers both encouragement and challenge as you consider what it means to "walk this way… together!" Tune in for thoughtful discussion, genuine friendship, and a fresh perspective on living the Christian life in community.

In this episode of "Tell Me More," hosts Luke Stehr and Dr. Dennis R. Wiles delve into the intricate weave of spiritual transformation and virtuous living in "Designer Fashion." Drawing from Dr. Wiles' recent sermon, they explore the themes of human flourishing and the transformative power of character and virtue as researched in the Global Flourishing Study.

The discussion seamlessly threads through the concept of Inaugurated Eschatology, where they examine how believers live at the intersection of 'This Present Evil Age' and 'The Age to Come.' Drawing inspiration from the Apostle Paul’s teachings, they discuss how the transformation of our inner character is an anticipation of a promised future state, encouraging listeners to consider their virtuous living as the ultimate fashion statement.

With Colossians 3:1-17 as their guiding text, Dr. Wiles illuminates the idea that God, as the original Fashion Designer, crafts us to outgrow the garments of our earthly nature, prompting a radical renewal. Together, they reflect on the spiritual wardrobe provided in Christ, urging believers to embrace their divine couture, crafted by the greatest designer of all.

Tune in for a thought-provoking and heartwarming conversation that not only entertains but inspires personal reflection and growth.

In this episode of "Tell Me More," hosts Katy Reed-Hodges and Dr. Dennis Wiles delve into the transformative power of love as presented in Colossians 3:1-17, under the 2025 theme "Flourishing Together: Rooted in Christ" and the Spring focus "Walk This Way!"

Join us as we explore the concept of human flourishing through the lens of character and virtue, a key pillar in the Global Flourishing Study. We discuss the intriguing idea of "Inaugurated Eschatology," and how we live at the crossroads of This Present Evil Age and The Age to Come. This duality offers a unique opportunity for personal growth and transformation, as seen in the teachings of the Apostle Paul.

The episode reveals the fundamental truth that followers of Jesus have been redeemed, restored, and raised to a new life in Him, emphasizing our faith journey to know our Creator and become more like Him. Embracing the foremost virtue—love—we reflect on N. T. Wright’s insightful analogy that the English word “love” is overstretched and in need of guidance.

Whether you are a lifelong believer or new to exploring faith, this episode promises inspiring insights and a deeper understanding of walking the path of love as we flourish together in Christ.

In this episode of "Tell Me More," hosts Katy Reed Hodges and Luke Stehr welcome Connor Toreallaba, our college minister. Connor discusses Dr. Wiles' sermon based on Romans 12:1-2 about how Jesus Christ redeems and transforms us through the Holy Spirit.

The conversation covers key concepts from the sermon including human flourishing, inaugurated eschatology (living between "This Present Evil Age" and "The Age to Come"), and the importance of mind renewal to avoid conformity to worldly patterns.

Connor explains how choosing to worship God offers an opportunity to give Him glory and leads us toward being "complete" in Christ. He also provides updates on current college ministry activities.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on Colossians 1:24-2:15 following the episode.