Episode Details

Our circumstances, emotions, and relationships all shape us, but they don't define us. At the center of who we are is something deeper: the heart.

In this fourth episode of our series exploring CCEF's seven distinctives, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes and Esther Liu to discuss what we mean when we say, "Our hearts are active." Together they explore how Scripture describes the heart as the center of our desires, fears, loves, worship, and choices. How does understanding the heart change the way we pursue personal growth, care for others, and participate in the life of the local church?

The conversation moves beyond behavior modification to consider how God meets us at the deepest level of who we are. Jonathan, Esther, and Gunner share personal stories of how this distinctive has shaped their own walks with Christ and explain why curiosity, humility, and hope are essential when helping others.

In this episode, you'll learn:
• What CCEF means by "our hearts are active."
• Why biblical change is more than changing outward behavior.
• How desires, fears, and loves reveal what's happening in our hearts.
• Why understanding the heart leads to deeper relationships and wiser care.
• How this distinctive equips churches to cultivate meaningful, gospel-centered conversations.

Mentioned in this episode:

- Register for Dynamics of Biblical Change and our other courses at ccef.org/school
- Learn more about our beliefs and distinctives at ccef.org/about

Related Resources:

- "How do I know when my actions are a result of sin in my heart or because of bodily weakness?" | video by Mike Emlet