Eric Miller sits down with Dr. Randy Smith, senior pastor of Neighborhood Church in Sebring, Florida, founder of Great Commission Bible Institute, and director of the Christian Travel Studies Program, for a candid conversation on the Middle East, the church, and how pastors can lead with clarity in a confusing cultural moment.

Randy helps cut through oversimplified narratives and algorithm-driven opinions, offering a framework for understanding the layers behind modern conflicts while keeping the main thing the main thing: starting with God's Word, not cable news. He challenges pastors to resist stereotypes, avoid partisan traps, and step into hard conversations with humility, compassion, and biblical conviction, like a referee bringing principles to both sides.

The episode closes with practical direction and real hope. Randy shares how to think biblically, pray faithfully, give strategically, and engage wisely without over-spiritualizing or over-politicizing. He also highlights what is encouraging him right now as he sees Scripture, spiritual hunger, and gospel opportunities unfolding in real time.

Learn more about STUDY TRIP.

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In this episode of the Momentum Ministry Partners Podcast, Eric sits down with Clancy Cruise and Jeremey Bury, the pastors behind Marysville Grace, Momentum's 2025 Church of the Year.

Together, they share the story of Marysville Grace from its early days as a church plant to becoming a thriving, multiplying church rooted in trust, unity, and long-term faithfulness. Clancy reflects on what it looks like to plant a church, raise up leaders from within, and remain on staff with humility after handing off the lead pastor role. Jeremey walks through his unexpected journey from worship pastor to lead pastor, and how God consistently confirmed each step along the way.

This conversation dives deep into healthy leadership transition, the difference between preferences and convictions, and why building trust through humility, repentance, and patience matters more than chasing trends. If you're a pastor or ministry leader navigating succession, developing young leaders, or longing for a church culture built on multiplication rather than ego, this episode offers practical wisdom and real encouragement.

To connect with Clancy or Jeremey, visit marysvillegrace.org or email office@marysvillegrace.org

Check out www.buildmomentum.org to learn more about our organization and how we seek to partner with local churches in order to equip today's young Christian leaders for tomorrow's opportunities.

Another great way to discover who we are?

Check out THIS PODCAST 🎙️

Follow Momentum Ministry Partners on:

Instagram: @MomentumMinistryPartners

Facebook: @MomentumMinistryPartners

YouTube: @MomentumMinistryPartners

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In this episode, Eric sits down with Nick (founder of UP) for a conversation that hits right at the center of what so many students, parents, and ministry leaders are feeling: doom scrolling is shaping us more than we realize. Nick shares his unlikely journey—from baseball and high-pressure tech environments to building tools rooted in behavioral science—and the moment he felt God calling him to take what he'd learned and use it for something bigger.

Together, they unpack what's actually happening beneath the surface of our feeds: how algorithms are designed to keep us hooked, how the "scroll" can choke out spiritual growth, and why this isn't just a self-control issue—it's a systems issue. Nick explains the heart behind UP (and the "scroll happy" idea): a platform built to give people what they want without feeding them what they don't need, aiming for mental health and wellbeing over engagement.

Learn more about Scroll Happy 📲

Check out www.buildmomentum.org to learn more about our organization and how we seek to partner with local churches in order to equip today's young Christian leaders for tomorrow's opportunities.

Another great way to discover who we are?

Check out THIS PODCAST 🎙️

Follow Momentum Ministry Partners on:

Instagram: @MomentumMinistryPartners

Facebook: @MomentumMinistryPartners

YouTube: @MomentumMinistryPartners

Subscribe and be sure to leave us your rating & review!