In this powerful episode of Ecosystem, we sit down with Bible teacher Phil Vander Ploeg to explore the resurrection of Jesus and why it changes everything. Titled "Grave Robber," this episode takes a deep dive into the theological, historical, and personal importance of the resurrection—and how it offers real hope for everyday life.

We unpack:
Why the resurrection must be historical (not just symbolic)
Evidence from scripture, Jewish writings, and historical sources
The resurrection as the exclamation point of Jesus' ministry
How suffering draws us closer to the hope of resurrection
Why living with resurrection hope changes how we face anxiety, depression, and hardship
The truth that Jesus is alive, present, and powerful today

Phil also shares deeply personal reflections on suffering, healing, and the peace that comes when we truly believe in the risen Christ. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, afraid, or uncertain about the future—this episode will encourage you.

Quote of the Episode:
“If the tomb is empty, anything is possible.”

Don't miss this Easter-season must-watch—or listen—conversation about why resurrection still matters today.

Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Ecosystem—where we explore the Bible like the living ecosystem it is.

#EcosystemPodcast #GraveRobber #Resurrection #JesusIsAlive #ChristianPodcast #HopeInChrist #OvercomingFear #BibleStudy #PhilVanderPloeg #FaithAndSuffering #WhyTheResurrectionMatters #EasterEveryDay #church307

In Part 2 of our deep conversation with Mike Wilson, Lead Pastor of New Life Wesleyan Church, we continue exploring one of life’s hardest and most honest questions: Why is there pain and suffering in the world?

In this episode, we go beyond the “why” and dig into the spiritual and emotional realities of suffering. What about natural disasters, childhood illness, or tragic loss—things that don’t seem connected to human free will? How can God allow such pain and still be good? Why doesn’t He stop it?

We talk about:

• The difference between temporary and eternal healing

• How God allows suffering but is never distant from it

• The role of faith when nothing makes sense

• How building community and trust in God prepares us for life’s storms

• What it means to suffer with God, not apart from Him

This episode is for anyone who’s struggling with big questions, wrestling with pain, or trying to make sense of suffering through the lens of faith. If you’re in the storm—or want to build a shelter before the next one comes—this is a conversation for you.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep and meaningful faith conversations!

In this episode of the Ecosystem Podcast, we sit down with Mike Wilson, Lead Pastor of New Life Wesleyan Church, to tackle one of life's biggest questions: Why is there pain and suffering in the world?

This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation where we explore the role of suffering in faith, how struggles can shape our character, and what the Bible says about enduring hardship. Pastor Mike shares deep insights on how to navigate pain with purpose and how trusting in God can bring hope even in the darkest times.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive even deeper into this crucial topic!

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more thought-provoking conversations!

#EcosystemPodcast #FaithAndSuffering #PainAndPurpose #MikeWilson #ChristianPodcast #WhyDoesGodAllowSuffering #church307 #newlifegillette

Welcome back to Ecosystem! In this episode, we explore the power of community and why it is essential for emotional, mental, and spiritual health. We’re joined by Chelsea Arrington, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Bible teacher, to discuss how relationships shape us, why isolation leads to unhealth, and what it means to live in true, life-giving community.

We talk about:
Why community is a core part of God’s design for us
The impact of healthy vs. dysfunctional relationships
How emotional and spiritual health are deeply connected
Overcoming the fear of vulnerability in relationships
Why online connections aren’t enough—we need real, in-person relationships

If you’ve ever felt hesitant about joining a life group, struggled with past relational wounds, or wondered why community even matters, this conversation is for you!

Key Themes:

• The necessity of relationships for overall well-being
• How emotional resilience grows in community
• Breaking free from isolation and learning to trust again
• The biblical foundation for living in community

You can find more about Chelsea and her practice by visiting www.highlandsgvl.com

Subscribe for More Conversations Like This!

#BiblePodcast #EcosystemPodcast #ChristianCommunity #FaithJourney #EmotionalHealth #MentalHealth #SpiritualGrowth #LifeOnMission #HealthyRelationships #Christianity

Welcome back to Ecosystem! In Episode 2, we dive into the second half of the book of Acts, exploring how the early church lived out its mission and how we can apply those lessons in our lives today.

This episode unpacks the practical themes of Acts, including the role of the Holy Spirit, the importance of community, and what it means to live “Life on Mission.” From the monumental story of Pentecost to the radical inclusion of Cornelius and Peter, we reflect on how the early church’s mission continues in us.

We also discuss the tension of modern faith: How do we recognize the Holy Spirit’s work in everyday moments? How do we respond to the gravitational pull of culture while remaining faithful to Jesus? And how can we discover our unique role in the ongoing story of Acts?

If you’ve ever wrestled with questions about purpose, calling, or how to live as a follower of Jesus in a complex world, this episode is for you.

Key Themes:

• Living empowered by the Holy Spirit
• Overcoming barriers and building bridges like Peter and Cornelius
• The challenge of unity in diversity
• Practical ways to live “Life on Mission”

Subscribe for More Episodes!

#BiblePodcast #EcosystemPodcast #BookOfActs #FaithJourney #LifeOnMission #Christianity #BibleStudy #ScriptureExploration #HolySpirit #ActsOfTheApostles

Welcome to the first episode of Ecosystem! In this new Bible study podcast, we’re diving deep into the book of Acts to see the Bible in a new light—not as a technical manual but as a living, breathing ecosystem we can explore.

In this episode, we discuss the unique perspectives and purpose behind Acts, written by Luke as a continuation of his Gospel. Luke captures how Jesus’ life and message continued through the early church, spreading across cultures and communities. We talk about the genres in the Bible, why Acts is a “Gospel,” and explore key themes like unity, the inclusivity of Jesus’ message, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. By looking at the cultural background of the Roman world, we can see how radical the early church’s mission truly was.

We hope Ecosystem helps you find a deeper understanding of scripture as we invite you to immerse yourself in the “ecosystem” of the Bible. Don’t miss out on this journey through Acts!

Key Points:

• Overview of the book of Acts
• Understanding Biblical genres
• Luke’s perspective as an author
• Cultural background of the early church
• Key themes: unity, inclusivity, and the Holy Spirit

Subscribe for More Episodes!

#BiblePodcast #BookOfActs #EcosystemPodcast #FaithJourney #Christianity #BibleStudy #ScriptureExploration #ActsOfTheApostles #UnderstandingTheBible

Welcome to Ecosystem, a podcast that invites you to explore the Bible like never before. The Bible can feel complex—layered, intricate, like stepping into a vast wilderness. But that doesn’t mean you can’t understand it. Imagine the Bible not as a microchip requiring technical expertise but as a rich ecosystem. There’s a lot going on, but you can live in it, observe it, and grow in understanding with time.

Starting with an in-depth look at the book of Acts, Ecosystem dives into scripture, guiding you to notice what’s happening beneath the surface. Much like learning to navigate the woods as a hunter, understanding the Bible comes through spending time within it, noticing patterns, asking questions, and seeking insight. You don’t have to know everything to live within its truth.

Join us in Ecosystem as we explore the terrain of the Bible, pointing out its wonders and helping you build a deeper, natural connection to scripture—one discovery at a time.