Becoming Something with Jonathan Pokluda (Harris Creek Baptist Church)

Is there a line between being nice and being flirty? In this episode we talk about how to be clear with your intentions and kind with your actions! You can show the fruits of the spirit without showing mixed messages!

If you are sick of being stuck in sin, we have a new resource for you! JP has written a book helping you identify your vices so that you can replace them with life giving virtues. You don’t have to be bogged down by sin, you can find freedom.

Buy the book here: https://www.jonathanpokluda.com

Everything you do flows from what's in your heart. If we want to live differently, we need to change what we are feeding our hearts. We aren't meant to follow our hearts but to inform them!

While many of us want to live for Jesus, some of our lives don’t reflect that. It’s easier to live partially surrendered than fully surrendered. In this episode we talk about how you can leverage your life fully for the gospel!

Engagement can be a really scary and really exciting thought at the same time. In this episode we make sure you know what you need to know before you get engaged! Stick around for a bonus conversation on how we handle our phones!

Andy Crouch is an author and commentator on our culture through the lens of a Jesus follower. He specifically has written a game changing book called “The Tech Wise Family”, and we’re confident this book will have a similar impact. In this episode we talk about the importance of community and how technology has changed our relationships. To order Andy’s new book, click here:

https://www.amazon.com/Life-Were-Looking-Relationship-Technological/dp/059323734X/ref=asc_df_059323734X_nodl?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=533224334354&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=12889298266385288890&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9027505&hvtargid=pla-1467486165035&psc=1&dplnkId=586e9918-a9c6-4587-9596-9eee6dc80e6e

Shane & Shane need no introduction. They have been writing and leading songs for The Church for nearly 20 years. Jefferson Bethke is the author of "To Hell With The Hustle" and co-host of "The Real Life Podcast". Check out how these leaders are handling today's situation!

We’ve all heard of Christian leaders who have used their power and influence to bring harm on people within their church. In this conversation, we talk with Katelyn Beaty about how we can avoid that from continuing to happen in the church. How can we maintain we’re all about Jesus instead of all about ourselves?

Check out her book here: https://amzn.to/3ZKV7x8

Can you control thoughts that feel uncontrollable? There are times when all of us have thoughts we just don’t want to have. This episode we talk about our thoughts and how we can learn to think better!

In this episode, we talk about the importance of reading the Bible on our faith. We'll equip you with what to read, when to read, and how to read it. Don't miss this episode!

Bob Goff is well known for his books of his wildly whimsical life. Bob has inspired many people to live better stories. We got to have a fun conversation about what he’s up to today!

On JP's Friday Q&A on Instagram, one of the most frequent questions he's been getting is how to break a soul tie. We use this episode to go more in depth on this topic and discuss if it's even a real thing. We'll also help you know the steps to take to recover from a past relationship.

This week we looked at some of the common mistakes that people make in dating. We address what not to look for, what not to do, and how not to pursue. We hope this episode keeps you from making these same mistakes!

For many of us, confession to anyone other than God feels like a scary idea. In this episode we talk about how confession to others is actually beneficial to you. If you want to take a new step on your faith, check out this episode!

Our phones are costing us. They provide a constant distraction that will interrupt and interfere with our relationship with Jesus. Don’t let your addiction to your phone keep you from an intimate relationship with God!

Whether you realize it or not, all of us have influence. In this episode we talk about how to use our influence well so that we make Jesus more famous, not ourselves!

One of the most frequent questions on JP’s Friday Q&A is about masturbation. Is it a sin? And if so, what’s the big deal about it? Why does masturbation affect your relationships? And how can you stop? We cover all of that and more in this week’s episode!

How can two Christians be convicted about different things? Would the Holy Spirit be telling them two different things? We address that and more on this episode!

If God is good, why should I fear him? In this episode we talk about why Scripture says we should fear Him, and why it’s actually for our good. If you e ever struggled with this question, this episode is for you!

How can you tell if you are hearing from God or if it’s just a voice in your head? Is he telling you who to date and you just can’t hear him? Is he telling you where to live but you’re ignoring him? If you’re looking to discern the voice of God in your life, check out this episode!

In this week's episode we compile a lot of listener's questions on sex and give you our answers! If you're looking for an honest conversation on what to expect with sex, check out this episode!

Many of us have heard the phrase "Choose Joy," but how is that even possible? In this week's episode, we talk about what joy is and where we can go to find it.

In this week's episode of Becoming Something we talk all about media consumption. From Netflix, to movies, to TV, to instagram, media is all around us. We try to help you set some guidelines of what you should and shouldn't watch. Forget about your Netflix binge and check out this episode!

This week we talk through a real-life example with Nate and Kathy about how to know when to speak up, and when to sit on your hands. When you notice your friend might be in sin, when is it your responsibility to say something? And how can you communicate clearly, kindly, and patiently with your brother or sister in Christ? We tackle all of that and more in this week’s episode!

On this week's episode we talk all about failure! Most of us are so afraid of failure, even though failure can be one of the greatest tools towards growth. JP talks about how to recover from failure and how it can become a part of your story!

In this episode, we sit down with Joshua Broome and hear about his experience in the p*rn industry. Joshua shares details of just how broken the industry is, and what it did to him. Before you consume p*rn, you need to know what industry you're keeping alive!

This week we discuss one of the topics that Jesus talked about the most...money! How should Christians handle money? How can we free ourselves from the love of money? Those questions and more are addressed on this week's episode of Becoming Something!

In this week's podcast we take on a topic that is extremely timely in nature. Our culture is having serious debates about abortion and we think the Church needs to step up and lead in this dialogue. Check out this episode to see how Christians should respond to this issue!
CORRECTION: We sincerely apologize for an incorrect stat given in this episode on when the majority of abortions take place. The majority do not happen after 21 weeks.

There are wars, rumors of wars, famines, and many other hardships. It certainly feels like the times Scripture describes about Jesus’ return! In this episode we talk about if Jesus is returning soon and how we can prepare for it.

You say thousands of words every day...are you using them well? In this episode we talk about sarcasm, jokes, and intentional conversations. If you want to get better with your words, don't miss this episode!

We hear it over and over again in young adult ministry...girls are frustrated with guys! Guys aren't asking girls out and in this podcast we try to figure out why that is. If you're a guy looking for advice or a girl looking to better understand, check out this episode!

Are you feeling lukewarm in your faith but don't want to be? This episode is for you! Here we describe the characteristics of a lukewarm faith and how to get out of it. We also talk about how to challenge believers in our life who seem to be lukewarm in their walk with Christ.

Does conflict mean that your relationships are healthy or unhealthy? Conflict is always an opportunity for restoration. In this episode we talk how to conflict well!

Since the pandemic have you been feeling more irritable? Tired? Angry? It’s because we’ve all been through a lot! In this episode, we talk to author John Eldredge about how to build up our reserves so we can become more resilient. To get his new book follow this link:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09N8XS7Y4/ref=dbs_a_def_awm_bibl_vppi_i0

Who goes to Heaven? It's one of the most important questions you'll ever ask! In this episode we talk about how we are saved, and how we can have assurance in our salvation. This podcast is one you'll want to share!

Sometimes you just feel like you've hit a wall when it comes to school, your job, or even a relationship. In this episode, JP talks about how to prevent burnout, and what to do if you're experiencing it. Check out this episode for some fresh perspective on why you do what you do!

This past year we have seen some amazing moves of God within the lives of college students. From Asbury to Passion, it feels like God is doing a new thing in the next generation. In this episode we talk about revival and how we can play a role in it happening!

Don't like your job? You're not alone! Many of us have a job, but don't know why we do it other than to get a paycheck. In this episode we talk about why we work, and how to find purpose in your work. You've got a job to do, so let us help you enjoy it!

This week’s episode was our first recording from Becoming Something Live in Waco, TX. We let the audience decide what they wanted to hear and they chose contentment. In this episode we cover what it means to be content in your young adult years. If you’re struggling in your career, finances, singleness, or anything else this episode is for you!

In this episode we promise to help make your wedding the most EPIC and INSTAGRAMABLE wedding of the year! Ok...maybe not. But we do try to help you prepare a wedding that will honor God and encourage those around you. We talk everything from budget, to invite list, to what we'd do over for our own weddings. Before you say "I do", check out this episode!

You can really have a vibrant relationship with Jesus! A stale religion can be replaced with an intimate knowledge of who Jesus is. Buy John’s new book “Experience Jesus. Really” here: https://a.co/d/iT62iFJ

In this week's episode, we're joined by David Marvin who is the author of the new book "We're All Freaking Out (and why we don't need to)". We have a discussion on anxiety and its' impact on our generation. If you want to pick up a copy of David's book click here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08PYJSTLZ/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

We all love JP’s Friday Q&A on Instagram, now you get to see it happen in real time! JP answers questions on the spot on a wide range of topics. These questions were randomly selected and not given to JP in advance.

In this episode we talk with influencer Jeanine Amapola. She gives us the Christian perspective of how to follow Jesus, while also trying to influence people. Jeanine shares that she's found that joy comes from Jesus, not from everything this world has to offer. Check out this episode to hear her story!

The songs you listen to and the shows you watch affect you more than you realize. That’s why it’s so important for us to pay attention to what we pay attention to. In this episode we talk about what you should or shouldn’t consume in regards to media.

In this season it's so easy for us to become apathetic. Since we've got nowhere to go and nothing to do, we can fall into watching Netflix for hours. In this episode we discuss how to discipline yourself for godliness and give you the second part of our conversation with Micah Tyler!

There are only two routes in a dating relationship: you either get married, or you break up. In this episode we answer the most common questions sent in to us about breakups. If you're dating someone and you're on fence (or just looking for the person you shouldn't breakup with), this episode is a must listen!

All of us have the opportunity for leadership, and the Bible gives us a great outline to grow in our leadership. This week we talk about when we can lead, how we should lead, and how to grow in the way we lead.

When JP announced the release of his book "Outdated" he also announced an "arranged marriage" contest. We talk about what that means and why community is so necessary in dating relationships. If you're looking to re-thinking dating, check out this episode!

In this episode we talk with Debra Fileta, who is a licensed professional counselor, about struggling with mental health as a follower of Jesus. We discuss things like how to know when you need help, and steps you can take to find healing. If you or someone you knows struggles with mental health, this episode will be a helpful resource for you!

In this episode we talk about how eternity changes your today. If you're a believer in Jesus, you know you're going to Heaven, but what difference does that make on your life right now? Listen to find out!

Brad Jones is one of the pastors at Passion City Church in Atlanta, GA. Brad has been on the forefront of the Passion movement, and we get to hear about how their church is mobilizing in this season!

On this episode we get to talk to the author of “Becoming Happy & Healthy”, Jeanine Amapola. She shares about times in her life where she didn’t have healthy habits, and what allowed her to find better ones. If you want to take a step into the abundant life has for you, check out this episode and pick up her book here: https://a.co/d/fvsbGvq

In this weeks episode we talk about how to start a spiritual conversation with people who don't know, or don't care about Jesus. Evangelism can feel awkward, but JP has some tips that will make it feel normal! If you know someone who doesn't know Jesus, you need to listen to this episode!

In this week’s episode we talk about what a calling is and what it means for us, as Christians. Do only certain people have callings from God, or is it everyone? If you’re looking for more purpose in your life check out this episode!

Long distance isn't fun, but sometimes it's necessary in a relationship. In this episode we talk about how to grow your relationship even when you're not together. We also discuss potential dangers of long distance, and how to wrestle through not trusting your boyfriend/girlfriend. If you're in a long distance relationship (or might be!) this episode is for you!

When you're looking for who to date, how important is physical attraction and chemistry? On this episode, we help you find the answers to that question!

In this week's episode we talk to author (and one of the most encouraging people we know), Carlos Whittaker. He gives us insight into what he's learned about how we're made to live. If you're looking for joy, don't miss this episode!

In this week's episode, we talk about talking behind people's backs! We discuss what the the problem is with it and how we can change. Don't miss this podcast!

Is it a problem to want what other people have? In this episode we talk about why God takes jealousy so seriously and why we should too. The warnings against jealousy are a part of His commands because it wants to steal from the life He offers!

Have you ever heard the phrase, "Pride comes before the fall"? Well, it's true! (And biblical: Proverbs 16:18). In this episode we talk about the dangers of pride and how to catch it before it overtakes you. We also discuss how to have humility and why it makes you (and everyone around you!) better.

The phrase "spiritual boundaries" is common in the dating process, but what does that mean? When you are dating are you allowed to pray together or not? In this episode we talk about how to make sure you honor God in the way that you date and pray!

Many of us struggle to have an active and thriving prayer life. This week we talk with Addison Bevere about why we should love to pray! You can check out his book “Words with God” here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0800737016/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?ie=UTF8&qid=&sr=

This week we talk about the role of the megachurch in the modern church landscape. We've seen many megachurches fall because of leadership that isn't submitted to Jesus. Does that mean megachurches are bad? What makes a church biblical? We talk about all of this and more on this week's episode!

The world’s way of dating simply isn’t the best way to date. We’ve all been fed lies about what is the ideal dating relationship. In this episode Tovares Grey walks us through how his life experience has proven the promises of Scripture to be true! Buy his new book here:

https://www.amazon.com/Godly-Dating-101-Discovering-Relationships/dp/0785293019

In this episode we talk through all you need to find out before you say “I do”. How can you determine if your boyfriend or girlfriend is really the one you should spend the rest of your life with? If you need help discerning, don’t miss this episode!”

We frequently get e-mails from listeners about the topic of video games. Oftentimes, it's girlfriends asking if their boyfriend plays too much. In this episode we talk about if video games are ok to play, and some ideas with how to spend your time more wisely!

We know that we’re supposed to read the Bible, many of us just don’t actually know how to. In this episode we talk about how to study the Scriptures and how to apply it to your life. If you want to love to read the Bible, this episode is for you!

On this episode of "Becoming Something" we talk about the rising amounts of stress in college students and young adults. Is there any way to avoid stress in our hyper-competitive and comparison obsessed world? Tune in to find out!

We’re joined by our friend, Joel Muddamalle, to tackle what the New Testament says about speaking in tongues. Joel serves as the Director of Theology and Research at Proverbs 31 Ministries. He’s also written a brand new book called “The Hidden Peace”. You can pick up his book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1400335329?tag=wpublishing-20

When does following the rules become problematic for your heart? In Scripture we see people like the Pharisees who learned to love rules more than they loved God. How can we make sure we aren’t too legalistic while maintaining a desire to live righteously?

Do you know that Jesus said not all sins can be forgiven? There is one sin that actually cannot be forgiven. In this episode we help you figure out if you’ve committed it. Check out this episode for an in depth explanation!

How can we be people who speak both courageously and thoughtfully? When our beliefs don’t line up with our co-worker’s, family member’s, or friend’s, what can we do to address those differences? If you’re looking for some help with the way you communicate don’t miss this episode!

In this episode of Becoming Something we discuss the important characteristics in a guy. If you are a girl, you need to listen to this episode! And if you're a guy, you REALLY need to listen to this episode!

In this episode, we catch up with a Bachelor legend! Ben Higgins joins us to discuss his journey of faith, how he's using his platform, and the importance of coffee. Take a listen!

Kathy is officially on maternity leave, so JP and Nate start their nationwide search to find her replacement. They interview people from Canada, to New York, to Michigan. See how the search played out!

Micah Tyler is one of the leading artists within Christian music. His songs have millions of plays on Spotify and can be heard on the radio all across the country. We ask him about his journey and what he's learned along his (very unusual!) path.

We all know we should, but not many of us actually do! In this episode we want to help you become a person of prayer. If you struggle with making time to pray or knowing what to pray for, you won't want to miss this episode!

One of the lies the enemy will try to get you to believe is that you aren’t good enough for God. When we sin, the worst thing you can do is stay where you are. God always wants you to come near and he’s eager to free you from shame.

Are we playing harps on a cloud? Will there be golf? Is Heaven in outer space? We talk about all these questions and more on this episode as we discuss what Heaven will be like!

On this weeks episode we cover A LOT of ground on the topic of singleness and dating. Lisa Anderson, who is the director of Boundless at Focus on the Family, joins us to help answer questions y'all have been sending our way. To buy Lisa's book "The Dating Manifesto" click here: https://family.christianbook.com/dating-manifesto-drama-pursuing-marriage-purpose/lisa-anderson/9781434708878/pd/708872?p=1159433&event=ORC

This week we have an honest and insightful conversation with musical artist and author KB. KB has written songs with deep meaning and here we get to know the man behind the songs!

Our goal each year should be to look more like Jesus at the end of it. To help with that process, each year our staff gives up one thing and decides a word they want to live out. This helps give direction to a year of following Jesus!

One of JP’s all time favorite quotes is, “If dependence is the goal, then weakness is the advantage.” On this week’s episode we talk about why dependence is the goal of our faith and what it practically looks like to be dependent. Don’t let your self-reliance get in the way of a growing faith!

In dating, you're trying to find "the one". This magical person that you were destined to marry since they moment you were born. In this episode we talk about that idea, and if it lines up with Scripture. If you're looking for a husband/wife, we want to help you!

In this episode we talk all things envy and jealousy. How can you combat the desire to have what other people have? How can you learn to celebrate other's successes rather than resent them for it? We address all of that and more on this week's episode!

Tedashii is one of the leading Christian rappers in America. His music has millions of listens on Spotify and has impacted a generation. We check in on what Tedashii is up to!

This week we speak with Brenna Blain, the author of the book "Can I Say That?" Brenna speaks about her book and her journey through trauma, same-sex attraction and mental health. Our time with Brenna was so good, we had to break it up into TWO episodes, so be sure to tune in next week for part 2! 

How can you know when you're ready to date? You may be coming off of a breakup or out of a season of singleness and wondering when you are ready. We're here to help! JP gives you 5 questions to ask yourself to know when you're ready to date again.

Buy JP's book "Outdated" here: https://www.amazon.com/Outdated-Find-Lasts-Dating-Changed/dp/080109495X/ref=sr_1_2?crid=HQFW5ZYY102V&dchild=1&keywords=outdated+jonathan+pokluda&qid=1613070052&sprefix=outdated%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-2

This week we give you an update on JP's life and the importance of his relationship with Jesus. If you are going through a season of grief, or helping someone through their own season of grief, this podcast is for you.

David Marvin is the leader of The Porch, the young adults ministry out of Watermark Community Church in Dallas, Texas. The Porch is a weekly gathering of thousands of young adults all across the country. Check out David's thoughts on anxiety in quarantine!

The workplace is a very different place than it used to be just a decade ago. Working from home and casual workspaces are far more prevalent than ever. In this episode we talk about why professionalism still matters, even in different working environments. JP talks through why professionalism can honor God and love others well. If you have a job, or ever plan to have a job, check out this episode!

Making big decisions can be stressful because we don’t want to disobey what God’s plan for our life may be. In this episode we talk about God’s call for our life and if it’s possible to miss it.

In this episode, we talk with Magician Drew Worsham about how we shouldn’t be afraid to be curious with our faith. Instead of allowing doubt to drive us away, being curious can drive us towards God. Not having all the answers can actually grow your faith!

We all have a soundtrack in our head of the things we tell ourselves. It’s vital for us to realize whether the soundtrack in our mind is giving us the truth or feeding us lies. In Jon’s new book he helps us remove and replace lies with the truth! Order his new book here:

https://acuff.me/playlist/

In this episode we tackle one of the most asked questions on dating. How important is physical attraction? If you’re looking for a spouse we talk about the role of attraction in marriage and how important it should be in your search!

Many of us know people who are Catholics, but aren’t sure what they believe. What are the differences and similarities between Protestants and Catholics? Are both groups Christians? 

This week we get to talk with Ben Stuart about the updated version of his book “Single, Dating, Engaged, Married”. He has helpful teaching on whatever relationship status you find yourself in. We also talk about his has added material on how to break up! Get his book here: https://a.co/d/2ZaUPZo

In this week's episode we ask JP what it looks like to daily grow in our love for Jesus. He says it's far more exciting than how we typically describe it. Check out this episode if you are looking to be challenged in your faith!

If you desire to be married, you’ve maybe been told to pray for your future spouse. Author and pastor Scott Kedersha has put together an amazing resource that will help you know what to pray for! If you are dating or engaged, these are great prayers for your relationship!