Relish: a Christian podcast

This episode was recorded live in front of students at Hillcrest Academy in Kalona, Iowa, using questions submitted directly by students.

Pastor Don addresses foundational issues many Christians struggle to explain clearly: why prayer matters if God already knows the outcome, how free will works alongside divine foreknowledge, why suffering is unevenly distributed, what Revelation is actually describing, and how baptism functions as identity and authority rather than mere ritual.

Rather than avoiding tension, this conversation leans into it—offering biblical reasoning, scriptural grounding, and practical clarity for listeners who want to think carefully about what they believe and why.

In this episode, we explore God’s unique calling for each believer. What does it mean to walk worthy of that calling? How do our skills, passions, and spiritual gifts reveal God’s purpose for us? Rowan, Noah, and Don discuss Scripture, practical examples, and the vital role of community in recognizing and stewarding the gifts God has given you.

Do you have questions for Pastor Don?  send them to tmadask@gmail.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbkAVsuqU5_zWnmGca-OYaw/videos
Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/RELISH319
Apologetics, Theology, Kalona, Wellman, Washington, Kalona Mennonite Church, West Chester Community Church, Jesus, Christianity, Christian, Church, Best New Christian Videos, Podcast, Relish 

00:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview
Introduction to today’s theme: discovering God’s unique calling and gifts.

01:20 – Dreaming Big: Your “Once-in-a-Lifetime” Goals
Exploring personal dreams, from Augusta National to skydiving, as a metaphor for God’s calling.

05:05 – When God Calls: Biblical Questions Begin
Transition into theological discussion about divine purpose and calling.

06:59 – Talking Animals in Scripture
Eve, the serpent, and Balaam’s donkey: understanding extraordinary events in biblical context.

11:59 – Understanding God’s Calling
Walking worthy of your calling, Ephesians 4:1, and distinguishing God’s work from human ambition.

17:25 – Skills & Talents in God’s Plan
How God equips each believer with unique gifts for specific purposes (Ephesians 2:10).

19:15 – The Value of Every Role
Why every skill and vocation matters equally in God’s kingdom, beyond societal status.

21:47 – Community & Discovering Your Calling
The importance of others in identifying your spiritual gifts and real-world talents.

23:27 – Closing Remarks & Takeaways
Final thoughts, practical applications, and encouragement to engage your gifts in daily life.

Reformed theology has become increasingly influential among younger Christians—but many still struggle to understand what it actually teaches and whether it reflects Scripture faithfully.

In this episode, Rowan Miller and Pastor Don Patterson are joined by college senior Noah Miller to examine the Calvinist and Arminian perspectives on salvation. The conversation unpacks the TULIP framework, discusses preaching influences like Tim Keller and John Piper, and explores difficult questions surrounding election, atonement, assurance, and human responsibility.

Along the way, the group reflects on mentorship, accountability, and how theological convictions shape real-world faith—especially during major life transitions like college and early adulthood.

This episode is designed for listeners who want clarity, not slogans—and who are willing to think carefully about what they believe and why.

Do you have questions for Pastor Don?  send them to tmadask@gmail.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbkAVsuqU5_zWnmGca-OYaw/videos
Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/RELISH319
Apologetics, Theology, Kalona, Wellman, Washington, Kalona Mennonite Church, West Chester Community Church, Jesus, Christianity, Christian, Church, Best New Christian Videos, Podcast, Relish 

Did anyone actually recognize the Messiah when He came?

In this Christmas episode of Relish, Rowan Miller and Don Patterson explore prophecy, Scripture access, and the tension between God’s plan and human freedom. From first-century scrolls and scribes to the printing press, Dead Sea Scrolls, and modern translations, the conversation traces how people encountered the Word of God—and how that shaped belief.

The episode also dives into predestination, free will, judgment, and what it means to live responsively to God’s purposes without reducing Him to a micromanager.

Honest, curious, and pastoral—this is a conversation for listeners who want depth without dogmatism.

What if self-control isn’t about willpower—but about freedom?

In the final episode of Relish’s Fruits of the Spirit series, Pastor Don Patterson and Rowan Miller explore the biblical meaning of self-control (temperance), showing how Scripture connects restraint with inner strength, healing, and grace.

From anger and temptation to addiction and desire, this conversation offers honest insight and practical steps toward lasting change—without shame or spiritual shortcuts. Rooted in Proverbs and Titus, this episode reframes self-control as a gift meant to protect and restore us.

What does “goodness” actually mean in the Christian life—and why does it feel so unclear today?

In this episode of Relish, Pastor Don Patterson and Rowan Miller explore the fruit of the Spirit known as goodness, unpacking the Greek word agathosune and Jesus’ teachings to show why biblical goodness is outward-facing, costly, and meant to tangibly benefit others.

Rather than a private virtue or moral label, goodness is revealed as a Spirit-given way of living that brings real value to people, communities, and even those who disagree with us. This conversation challenges shallow definitions of goodness and calls believers to a faith that visibly impacts the world.

Why do setbacks reveal more about our faith than success?

Rowan Miller and Pastor Don Patterson reflect on spiritual formation, idolatry, and the armor of God in this thoughtful episode of Relish. Blending Scripture, church history, and pastoral counsel, they examine why modern Christians often feel spiritually unprepared—and how grace-filled discipline forms resilient faith.

From Ephesians to Hebrews, this conversation navigates the tension between grace and obedience, offering practical wisdom for cultivating patience, peace, and perseverance in everyday life.

A warm, honest dialogue for believers who want faith that endures.

Who are you becoming—and what role do faith and finances play in shaping that story?

In this episode, Rowan Miller and Pastor Don Patterson reflect on Scripture, identity, and the everyday realities of money, work, and family life. With humor, honesty, and pastoral insight, they explore what the Bible teaches about debt, generosity, and trusting God in practical decisions—from buying a home to raising children.

Personal stories, biblical reflection, and thoughtful theology come together as they consider how Jesus’ words guide not just belief, but priorities, character, and purpose.

A grounded, encouraging conversation for anyone trying to live faithfully in the real world.

Do you have questions for Pastor Don?  send them to tmadask@gmail.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbkAVsuqU5_zWnmGca-OYaw/videos
Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/RELISH319
Apologetics, Theology, Kalona, Wellman, Washington, Kalona Mennonite Church, West Chester Community Church, Jesus, Christianity, Christian, Church, Best New Christian Videos, Podcast, Relish 

Join hosts Don Patterson and Rowan Miller on Relish as they explore what it means to trust God, accept a calling, and live out faith in everyday life. In this episode they discuss why many churches meet on Sunday mornings, the biblical roots of worship timing, and contemporary approaches churches use to reach visitors and form deeper discipleship rhythms.

Don and Rowan dig into Scripture—Acts 1 and Philippians 2—to reflect on Jesus’ humanity and divinity, the incarnation, and how Christ’s humility models Christian service. Through personal stories, the hosts share moments when they trusted God: stepping into podcasting, accepting unexpected pastoral roles at Kelowna Mennonite, and stretching into mission work and public speaking.

The conversation turns practical and pastoral: the importance of saying yes to God’s nudges, finding mentors, and how giftedness and God’s equipping often unfold over time. They also address the consequences of denying a call, the need to confess and move forward, and the joy and growth that come from obedience.

Listeners will also hear a sober reminder about global church challenges—leadership shortages and persecution, with a spotlight on ministry work in Nigeria and the Anabaptist Peace Center—and an invitation to support leaders and ministries in need. Whether you’re discerning a call, leading a congregation, or simply curious about Christian vocation, this episode offers scripture-rich reflection, real-life testimony, and encouragement to say yes to where God is leading.

Do you have questions for Pastor Don?  send them to tmadask@gmail.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbkAVsuqU5_zWnmGca-OYaw/videos
Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/RELISH319
Apologetics, Theology, Kalona, Wellman, Washington, Kalona Mennonite Church, West Chester Community Church, Jesus, Christianity, Christian, Church, Best New Christian Videos, Podcast, Relish 

 

Relish pleasing or zestful flavor — a quantity just sufficient to flavor to be pleased or gratified by enjoy. Welcome back to another episode of Relish. Host Rowan Miller is joined by Pastor Don Patterson for a warm, conversational look at spiritual life, memory, and how faith shapes what we do.

We begin with a personal chat about ways of reading the Bible: community reading plans, working through devotionals, and how approaches change over time. Rowan and Don compare starting points (why beginning at Genesis can feel strange for new readers and why starting in John or using a devotional is often helpful) and reflect on how regular Bible reading has grown in their own lives.

The main focus is the Fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22 — love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith (faithfulness), gentleness, and self-control — with a deep dive into faith itself. Don highlights the Greek nuance (the list includes distinct Greek words, and the entry translated as “faithfulness” is the word for faith) and turns to Hebrews 11 to let Scripture define faith: "being sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see." The hosts walk through Hebrews 11 examples — Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Joseph, Moses — and draw out what each life demonstrates about faith in action.

Key highlights include how faith moves people to act beyond reason: Noah building an ark for a coming flood he’d never seen, Abraham leaving his homeland at God’s call, and believers today stepping into new ministries or life-change despite uncertainty and possible ridicule. The conversation connects these biblical examples to practical hopes — renewal in local communities, fresh works of the Spirit, lives being changed, and the way transformed people can inspire others.

Rowan and Don also reflect on generational dynamics, mentorship, and the joy of sharing faith stories that spark curiosity and renewal. Listeners are invited to share the episode and become part of the ministry’s aim: to help one another grow deeper in knowing God and responding to His call. Stay tuned for the next episode in the Fruits of the Spirit series.

 

Do you have questions for Pastor Don?  send them to tmadask@gmail.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbkAVsuqU5_zWnmGca-OYaw/videos
Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/RELISH319
Apologetics, Theology, Kalona, Wellman, Washington, Kalona Mennonite Church, West Chester Community Church, Jesus, Christianity, Christian, Church, Best New Christian Videos, Podcast, Relish