Beyond the Pulpit - Woodlands Church is the podcast of Woodlands Church in Crestline, California, where we dive deeper into conversations about life, culture, and faith through a biblical lens. Each episode takes the teaching and formation we pursue on Sundays and extends it into the rhythms of everyday life.
Hosted by pastors from Woodlands, this podcast explores theology, Scripture, and the issues shaping our world, always with an eye toward practical discipleship and genuine hope in Christ.
LINKS
www.iranalive.org (http://www.iranalive.org)
To Donate Text “Iran” to 85789
DESCRIPTION
Explore the spiritual and political landscape of Iran through the eyes of Dr. Hormoz Shariat, founder of Iran Alive Ministries. While global headlines focus on military tensions and geopolitical conflict, another powerful story is unfolding inside Iran—the remarkable growth of the Christian church.
In this episode of Beyond the Pulpit, Dr. Shariat explains why many Iranians are increasingly rejecting Islam and exploring Christianity. Despite living under an oppressive Islamic regime where conversion can bring severe persecution, the gospel is spreading through underground churches, satellite broadcasts, and digital ministries, reaching millions of Persian-speaking people. Many researchers and mission organizations report that Christianity is among the fastest-growing faith movements in Iran, with estimates ranging from hundreds of thousands to more than a million converts from Muslim backgrounds.
Dr. Shariat shares how ministries like Iran Alive are broadcasting the message of Jesus directly into Iranian homes, discipling new believers, and supporting the rapidly expanding underground church. We also discuss why many Iranians—especially younger generations—are disillusioned with Islam and searching for spiritual truth and freedom.
We also address the current military tensions and political unrest involving Iran and why some see this moment as spiritually significant. From the Iranian church's perspective, these events may create new openness to the gospel and renewed spiritual hunger.
Key Topics
The spiritual awakening in Iran and biblical prophecies
The role of media in evangelism and underground church growth
Persecution of Christians and their resilience in Iran
Biblical connections to Iran and its prophetic significance
Practical ways to support Iran's church from abroad
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Iran and Its Spiritual Landscape
02:52 Dr. Hormoz Shariat's Journey to Faith
05:49 The Role of Media in Evangelism
08:45 Current Political and Spiritual Climate in Iran
11:48 Persecution of Christians in Iran
14:53 The Shift in Iranian Sentiment Towards Islam
17:45 The Prophetic Significance of Iran
20:56 Transformative Power of the Gospel
23:45 The Impact of Family Dynamics on Faith
26:50 Iran's Biblical Prophecies and Their Fulfillment
29:54 The Future of Christianity in Iran
33:03 How Americans Can Support Iranian Christians
36:03 Final Thoughts and Call to Action
23 Feb 2026
Abortion and the Christian Conscience
Abortion is one of the most emotionally charged and politically divisive issues of our time. But what does the Bible actually say? And how should Christians think about abortion in today’s culture?In this episode of Beyond the Pulpit, we explore abortion from a clear and unapologetically Christian perspective. We discuss the theological, ethical, and scientific foundations behind the pro-life position, including the question: When does life begin? We examine the concept of ontology—what it means to be human—and why human value must be grounded in God’s design, not cultural consensus.This conversation addresses:* The biblical foundation for the sanctity of life* Scientific evidence that life begins at conception* Historical context, including infanticide in the ancient world* The emotional and moral complexity surrounding abortion* How Christians can engage this issue with truth and compassionWe also speak directly to those who carry regret or pain from past decisions. The gospel offers real grace, real forgiveness, and real hope.As followers of Christ, we are called not only to defend life intellectually, but to cultivate a culture of life practically—supporting mothers, families, and vulnerable children with courage and love.This episode is designed to help Christians think clearly, speak wisely, and act compassionately in one of the most significant moral conversations of our generation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Abortion Debate02:01 The Emotional and Pastoral Perspective05:31 Understanding Ontology and Human Value11:53 Logical Arguments Against Abortion16:56 Scientific and Ethical Considerations24:31 Biblical Perspectives on Life30:18 Historical Context of Abortion and Infanticide35:47 The Value of Life and Disability42:05 The Role of Christians in the Abortion Debate49:20 Faithful Engagement and Support for Families56:36 Conclusion: Hope and Redemption in the Conversation
16 Feb 2026
Bad Bunny vs. TPUSA: A Christian Response To The Culture Wars
In this episode of Beyond the Pulpit, we examine the striking contrast between the Official Super Bowl Halftime Show and the Turning Point USA All-American alternative halftime show. More than competing performances, these two events reveal competing visions of identity, belonging, morality, and cultural allegiance.Why do moments like this feel like loyalty tests? Why does our culture pressure Christians to choose a side? And what does faithfulness to Christ look like when public narratives demand alignment?We discuss how tribalism shapes modern identity, how both secular and “Christian-branded” cultural expressions can pull believers into ideological camps, and why collapsing the gospel into a political or cultural narrative weakens Christian witness. As followers of Christ, we are not called to react predictably—we are called to discern wisely.Using the classical Christian framework of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty, we offer a way forward for evaluating all cultural expressions—whether secular spectacle or conservative alternative—without surrendering to outrage or retreat.This conversation is unapologetically Christian. We believe identity is grounded in union with Christ, not in cultural tribes. Our aim is to help believers feel less pressured, more grounded, and better equipped to engage culture with clarity, conviction, and love.Key TakeawaysThe Official and TPUSA halftime shows represent competing cultural narratives.Christians are often pressured to prove allegiance in public moments.The gospel does not map neatly onto any political or cultural tribe.Both secular and “Christian” cultural expressions must be evaluated.Truth, Goodness, and Beauty provide a historic Christian framework for discernment.Discipleship forms believers who can endure cultural tension without panic.Faithfulness requires wisdom, not reflexive reaction.00:00 — Two Halftime Shows, One Cultural Flashpoint06:30 — The Pressure to Pick a Side14:20 — Tribalism and the Christian Identity22:15 — Evaluating Secular and Christian Cultural Expressions31:40 — Truth, Goodness, and Beauty as a Framework40:10 — A Steady Christian Witness in a Reactive Age
9 Feb 2026
Raising Godly Kids in a Crazy, Secular World
In this conversation, Matt Murray and Beth Toscano discuss the importance of discipling children in a secular culture. They explore how play serves as a vital pathway for spiritual growth and connection, emphasizing the need for parents to engage with their children through curiosity and trust. The discussion highlights the challenges parents face, the significance of community support, and the necessity of open conversations about faith. Ultimately, they offer encouragement to parents, reminding them that God loves their children deeply and that discipleship is a gradual process.
takeaways
Discipling kids requires intentional engagement and presence.
Play is a God-designed pathway for connection and curiosity.
Building trust with children is essential for effective discipleship.
Parents should approach conversations about faith with openness and honesty.
Discipleship is a gradual process, not a one-time event.
Community support is crucial in raising children in faith.
Children learn best through play and exploration.
Parents should model their faith for their children.
It's important to have ongoing conversations about difficult topics.
God loves our children more than we can imagine.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Discipleship and Play
02:48 The Importance of Relationships in Discipleship
06:08 Play as a Pathway for Spiritual Growth
08:59 Engaging with Kids: Practical Strategies
11:46 Navigating Parenting Challenges
15:10 Building a Supportive Community
17:59 The Gospel Message in Parenting
21:51 Serving While Waiting: A Mindset Shift
26:18Building Relationships Through Play
27:21 Addressing Parental Fears in a Secular World
30:06 The Importance of Male Leadership in Faith
34:55 The Role of Parents in Discipleship
38:56 Encouragement for Parents on the Journey of Faith
2 Feb 2026
Witches!!! Thinking Biblically About The Occult
Witchcraft has long been rejected within historic Christianity, yet in recent years it has been reintroduced into modern culture—often reframed as spiritual or therapeutic. In this episode of Beyond The Pulpit, we take a careful, biblical look at witchcraft, wicca, neo-paganism, and the occult, asking how Christians should understand these practices in light of Scripture.
Drawing on church history, personal experience, and key biblical texts, we explore how witchcraft has evolved, why it continues to appeal to people today, and how it fundamentally differs from a Christian worldview. We discuss common practices often associated with modern witchcraft—such as astrology, crystals, tarot, and earth-centered spirituality—and why Scripture consistently warns against seeking spiritual power, knowledge, or control apart from God.
This conversation aims to help believers engage wisely and faithfully, holding fast to the authority of Scripture while bearing witness to the sufficiency and power of Christ.
26 Jan 2026
Fake Gospels Vs The REAL Bible
Many Christians want to read the Bible faithfully but feel unsure where to start—or why it sometimes feels confusing or intimidating. In this episode of Beyond The Pulpit, we explore several surprising and often misunderstood aspects of Scripture that can change the way we read and understand the Bible.
We talk about how the Bible is organized, why it’s better understood as a library rather than a single book, and why genre and context matter so much for interpretation. We also address how the church recognized the books of Scripture, helping listeners grow in confidence that the Bible they hold is trustworthy. Finally, we offer practical guidance on how to approach a Bible reading plan in a way that is sustainable, grace-filled, and spiritually formative.
This conversation is designed to help believers read Scripture with greater clarity, confidence, and joy—both personally and within the life of the church.
19 Jan 2026
THIS Is What New Believers Need Most
When someone places their faith in Christ, it’s not the finish line—it’s the starting point for the gospel to transform their life. In this episode of Beyond The Pulpit, we talk about why follow-up matters so much, what new believers actually need, and how assurance, clarity, and community help shape a lasting faith. We also explore why this responsibility belongs to all of us, not just pastors or programs. Watch the full episode to learn how to walk well with new believers.
12 Jan 2026
A Heart for God IS a Heart for Missions
In this episode of Beyond The Pulpit, we sit down with Omar Rodriguez, International Leader for Reach Global Latin America and the Caribbean, to talk about the everyday realities of missionary life. We explore what it means to be an ambassador for Christ, how missionaries are first and foremost disciple makers, and why the call to missions begins with God’s work in the heart long before it becomes a job or destination.This conversation also walks through the pathway to missions, helping listeners understand how God shapes and sends ordinary believers to participate in his global mission—and why every local church has a role to play.
5 Jan 2026
BONUS! A Bird-eye View of 2 Corinthians (Part 2)
These bonus episodes come from early conversations we recorded while preparing to preach through 2 Corinthians at Woodlands Church in Crestline, California. They offer a brief overview of the letter—its background, Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian church, and the challenges he faced from the “super-apostles.”
Though recorded before the podcast officially launched, these discussions provide helpful context as our church studies 2 Corinthians together.
29 Dec 2025
BONUS! A Bird-eye View Of 2 Corinthians (Part 1)
This bonus episode comes from early conversations we recorded while preparing to preach through 2 Corinthians at Woodlands Church. Part 1 and 2 offer a brief overview of the letter—its background, Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian church, and the challenges he faced from the “super-apostles.”
Though recorded before the podcast officially launched, these discussions provide helpful context as our church studies 2 Corinthians together.
22 Dec 2025
How To Express The Gospel With Clarity and Confidence
How do we clearly and confidently share the gospel with people we love? With so many at Woodlands responding to Christ this year, it’s more important than ever to know the basic message. Shane and Matt break it down in this episode.
15 Dec 2025
Krampus: How Should A Christian Think About Dark Traditions?
Krampus is a dark tradition growing in North America. Should Christians embrace cultural moments like Krampus? Let’s talk about how scripture helps Christians know when to reject, redeem, or use traditions for gospel conversation. New episode out now.
10 Dec 2025
What Is Advent All About?
If you’ve ever wanted Advent to be more meaningful for your family or just know what it is, this episode will give you clarity, history, and simple ways to practice Advent in meaningful ways. Listen today.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Contact Beyond The Pulpit - Woodlands Church
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Beyond The Pulpit - Woodlands Church?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
