Undaunted Pursuit Podcast

Ancient Practice Meets Modern Truth with Pastor Thomas West

In this powerful and insightful episode, Aaron sits down with Pastor Thomas West to explore The Gospel Way Catechism: 50 Truths That Take On the World — a brand-new book co-authored with Trevin Wax, set to release July 22, 2025.
📘 The book brings an ancient practice — the catechism — into today’s cultural moment to help Christians recognize and resist false secular narratives and reclaim a joy-filled identity in Christ. Pastor West shares how catechesis offers a proactive spiritual formation that equips believers to live out their faith with clarity, boldness, and joy in a culture that often leads us astray.
🔥 Topics We Cover:
What exactly is a catechism, and why does it still matter?
The difference between catechesis and apologetics
How secular culture catechizes us unknowingly
The story behind planting a church in London and seeing revival take root
The creative process behind writing The Gospel Way Catechism — in C.S. Lewis’s home!
How formation before defense sets us up for deep-rooted joy in Jesus
📖 The Gospel Way Catechism offers 50 truth-filled Q&As to help believers anchor their faith, fight cultural confusion, and form deep gospel instincts. From questions on work, sexuality, and freedom to identity, salvation, and the Kingdom of God — this resource is for new believers, seasoned Christians, and small groups alike.
🗓️ PREORDER NOW: The Gospel Way Catechism releases July 22, 2025 — order today wherever books are sold!👉 gospelwaycatechism.com
🛒 Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christianbook.com, Books-A-Million, and even Target!
📚 Want to go deeper? Check out the companion workbook to dive further into each truth with discussion questions, scripture studies, and prayers from church history.
🧠 About the Authors:
Trevin Wax is VP of Research and Resource Development at the North American Mission Board and a visiting professor at Cedarville University. He’s a trusted voice in Christianity and culture and a regular contributor at The Gospel Coalition.📱 Follow him:X: @trevinwax | Instagram: @trevinwax | Facebook📖 Blog
Thomas West is the senior pastor of Nashville First Baptist Church and founder of Redeemer Queen’s Park in London. With advanced degrees in theology and a deep passion for cultural formation, Thomas helps lead gospel renewal in both the UK and U.S.📱 Follow him:X: @tweetingthomas_ | Instagram: @thomaswest | Facebook✍️ Substack: @westswords
🎶 Special Thanks:Big shoutout to Tyler Phillip Ratcliffe for the use of his beautiful song “Beautifully Made” in this week’s episode.🎧 Follow Tyler and support his music:Instagram | Linktree
📲 Stay Connected with Us:Follow us, subscribe, and don’t miss a beat — from podcast episodes to special guests and ministry updates.🔗 Undaunted Pursuit Linktree
💥 Don’t forget:🎁 Preorder The Gospel Way Catechism for Aaron’s birthday on July 22 — give yourself (and your faith) a gift that lasts!

Bonus Episode: Marshall's Major Life Update!

This week on Undaunted Pursuit, we're dropping a special bonus episode with our good friend, Marshall! It felt like forever, but he's finally back to give us a much-needed life update. You won't believe what he's been up to!
In this episode, you'll hear all about:
Tech Troubles & Triumphs: The saga of Zencastr vs. Riverside and why Marshall's new MacBook is a game-changer (even if it's got some quirks!).
The Ultimate Basement Makeover: Get an exclusive peek into Aaron's incredible, multi-functional new studio space – it's a "Buc-ee's of basements"! From podcasting to prayer nights, this room does it all.
Marshall's Big Move: Marshall shares the exciting (and exhausting!) details of his new job and the big family move that's shaking things up. Discover the challenges and triumphs of relocating and why he believes it's all part of God's plan.
Home Selling Hacks (and Headaches): A lively debate on how much work you really need to put into a house before selling it. Aaron and Marshall share their experiences and differing opinions on curb appeal versus major renovations.
This episode is a fun, candid check-in, offering a glimpse into the personal lives behind the mics. Get ready for some laughs, relatable moments, and a few technical glitches that make it all the more real!
Don't forget to follow us! Keep up with all things Undaunted Pursuit by following our link: https://linktr.ee/undauntedpursuit
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Are You a Seasonal Christian?

Show Notes:
Are you ready to dig deeper into your faith journey? After a month-long hiatus, Aaron and Ashley are back on the Undaunted Pursuit Podcast to tackle a critical question from James Chapter 4: Are we "seasonal Christians"?
This isn't just another Bible study; it's a raw, honest look at what it means to truly follow Jesus. We're ripping off the band-aid on topics like fleshly desires, hidden pride, and why our prayers sometimes go unanswered. Get ready to examine your heart posture, understand the subtle dangers of worldly friendship, and discover the profound power of humbling yourself before God.
Join us as we challenge the common pitfalls of modern faith, including the temptation to judge others and the necessity of including God in all our plans. This episode is packed with practical wisdom to help you live an obedient life that truly reflects your faith and gratitude for salvation. Don't miss this powerful discussion on spiritual growth and discerning God's purpose for your life!
Episode Deep Dive:
Welcome Back & Studio Reveal!
The "Summer Slump": Is your spiritual life taking a vacation?
Wars Within: Understanding the source of conflict in our desires.
The Covetous Heart: More than just "keeping up with the Joneses."
Why Prayers Go Unanswered: It's all about motives and God's perfect "no."
God's Blessings, Our Purpose: How He equips us to bless others.
Friendship with the World: What does it really mean to be God's enemy?
Confronting Pride: Why God opposes the proud, and what humility unlocks.
Resisting the Devil: Standing firm by drawing near to God.
Purifying Your Heart: Overcoming double-mindedness.
The Danger of Judgment: Why only God sees the full picture.
Life's a Vapor: Making plans with "If the Lord wills..."
Knowing & Doing: The sin of inaction.
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The Diaper Duty Detour: Marshall Returns to Undaunted Pursuit!

Aaron jokingly welcomes back the sleep-deprived but beaming co-host Marshall, who has been off-air celebrating the arrival of his first baby boy, Colt! Hear all about the "wild roller coaster" of new parenthood, the never-ending laundry saga, and the surprising amount of bottle washing involved. Aaron shares his own busy life, juggling five kids and the ongoing basement renovations (insulation woes!). They also touch on their recent experiences stepping into preaching roles, the unexpected support from family, and a humorous tale of a potential podcast guest with some rather demanding requests. We also want to extend a massive thank you to the amazing singer-songwriter Tyler Phillip Ratcliffe for the generous use of his song "Whisper Above My Shout" in this episode. You can discover more of Tyler's music and follow his updates at instagram.com/tylerphilipratcliffe/ and linktr.ee/tylerphilipratcliffe. Join them for a relaxed conversation about life's unexpected turns and the unwavering pursuit of faith amidst the chaos. Stay connected with the Undaunted Pursuit Podcast by following our link: https://linktr.ee/undauntedpursuit.

From Gym Owner to Chirstian Music Artist - A Story of Anointing and Authentic Worship With Tyler Ratcliffe

Show Notes:
From Weights to Worship: Discover how a gym owner traded iron for inspiration, finding his voice and calling in Christian music.
The Road Back to Church: Tyler shares his heartfelt journey back to faith, seeking a Christian community for his family and unexpectedly finding his own path.
"Graves into Gardens" and a Musical Awakening: Experience the powerful moment that ignited Tyler's passion, leading him from the sidelines to center stage.
Anointed to Sing: Hear the incredible story of how a prophetic word set Tyler on a course to share his God-given gift with the world.
Balancing Calling and Commerce: Tyler gets real about the challenges of navigating the music industry while staying true to his authentic purpose.
When God Says, "Be Still": Explore the profound impact of listening to God's quiet voice amidst the noise of the world and the power of obedience.
"Messenger": An Album Born of Purpose: Uncover the heartfelt inspiration behind Tyler's debut album and the personal connection to his son's name.
From Bible to Lyrics: Delve into Tyler's creative process, learning how he translates scripture and personal experiences into powerful and moving songs.
Navigating Criticism with Grace: Discover how Tyler handles feedback, staying grounded in his faith and artistic vision.
Beyond the Stage: A Heart for Service: Hear inspiring stories of humility and service, shaping Tyler's approach to ministry and his role in the church.
"Kingdom Eyes": A Song Born from a Vision: Experience the powerful story behind Tyler's moving song and the profound message of seeing others as God does.
More Music on the Horizon: Get a sneak peek at Tyler's upcoming projects, including new songs, music videos, and exciting collaborations.
Connect with Tyler: Follow Tyler's incredible journey and support his ministry! Find him on Instagram: instagram.com/tylerphilipratcliffe/ and access his music and more through his Linktree: linktr.ee/tylerphilipratcliffe
Hear "Wrestled With an Angel": A huge thank you to Tyler for allowing us to use his beautiful song, "Wrestled With an Angel," at the end of this episode.
Keep Up with Undaunted Pursuit: Don't miss out on future episodes and updates! Follow us on our Linktree: https://linktr.ee/undauntedpursuit

Taming the Tongue: Fire, Wisdom, and Real Life Chaos

🔥 In this episode, Aaron welcomes his wife Ashley back to the mic as they dive into James Chapter 3, exploring how "the tongue is a fire" and the profound impact our words have on ourselves and others.
Ever said something you instantly regretted? You're not alone! Aaron and Ashley get real about the challenges of taming the tongue in this week's Undaunted Pursuit. They dig into James 3, exploring the powerful imagery of bits and rudders, the destructive power of gossip (that spreads like wildfire!), and the crucial pursuit of true wisdom in a world filled with noise and selfish ambition.
Episode Highlights:
The warning for teachers and the higher standard they're held to
How our tongue, like a small rudder on a ship, directs our entire life
Why a small spark of gossip can turn into a devastating forest fire
The contradiction of blessing God while cursing others made in His image
True wisdom from above versus earthly, selfish ambition
Practical ways to let the Holy Spirit control our words
In the midst of the real-life chaos of a big family move, they share personal reflections on the constant struggle to control what we say and how our words directly impact our lives and relationships. They tackle the tough verses about the responsibility of teaching, the difference between worldly and godly wisdom, and the importance of speaking life, even when it's hard.
Aaron and Ashley share personal insights about their recent move and how they've experienced both support and opposition - sometimes from well-intentioned people. They emphasize the importance of watching what we say and pray, especially during challenging life transitions.
As they unpack this powerful chapter verse by verse, the couple discusses how spiritual maturity begins with controlling our words and how only God can truly "extinguish" the fires our words can start.
Tune in for this thought-provoking conversation about taming the untamable tongue and cultivating godly wisdom that leads to peace!
Want to stay connected and keep up with Undaunted Pursuit? Follow us on all our platforms by clicking the link in our bio: https://linktr.ee/undauntedpursuit
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Baby on the Way and a Powerful Conclusion

Get ready for a double dose of life updates and deep dives this week on Undaunted Pursuit! Join Aaron and Marshall as they navigate the exciting (and exhausting!) anticipation of a new baby and prepare for a massive move back to Idaho. But it's not all diapers and packing tape - they're also wrapping up their insightful study of the book of Hebrews, delivering a powerful conclusion that will leave you inspired and challenged.
What's on tap this week:
The Clock is Ticking (Literally!): Marshall gives an honest update on the final days leading up to the arrival of his little one. From exhaustion to the waiting game, hear the personal side of this major life event and how it's shaping their podcast schedule.
Homeward Bound: Aaron shares the bittersweet emotions of leaving Arkansas and heading back to their beloved Idaho. Discover the incredible connections they've made and the lessons learned during their time there, and get a sneak peek into the epic 30-hour road trip ahead!
A Lightbulb Moment (Literally!): Get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the podcast setup as Aaron showcases their new phone tripod with a colorful ring light. Who knew podcasting could be so vibrant?
Wrapping Up Hebrews: The Grand Finale: This week, Aaron and Marshall deliver a comprehensive summary of the latter half of Hebrews, focusing on the superiority of Christ's sacrifice and the call to unwavering faith.
Jesus: The Ultimate Mediator: Explore how Hebrews draws upon Old Testament prophecies, particularly from Jeremiah, to highlight Jesus as the mediator of a better covenant. Understand the significance of this connection and how it reinforces God's faithfulness.
Sacrifice Superiority: Dive into the contrast between Old Testament sacrifices and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. Learn how Jesus' sacrifice offers eternal redemption and provides direct access to God for believers.
Hold Fast and Live Boldly: Discover the powerful encouragement within Hebrews to hold onto faith, strive for a life pleasing to God, and actively support one another in love and good works.
The Day Approaching: Reflect on the significance of gathering together as believers, especially as we anticipate the return of Christ.
Sin and Accountability: Marshall shares a powerful passage from Hebrews about the consequences of sin, particularly for those who have experienced God's grace. This leads to a heartfelt call for Christians to strive for righteousness and live up to the higher standard to which they are held.
What is Faith?: Aaron and Marshall delve into the meaning of faith, drawing from Hebrews 11's "Hall of Faith." They discuss the nature of believing in what cannot be seen and the example set by Old Testament figures.
Persevering Through Trials: Discover how Hebrews encourages believers to persevere in their faith, even in the face of obstacles and challenges. The discussion highlights that hardship is not a sign of God's displeasure, but rather an opportunity for growth and training.
Living Like Jesus: Hospitality and Humility: The episode emphasizes the importance of showing hospitality, remembering those in need, and honoring marriage. Aaron and Marshall share personal stories and insights on living out Jesus' example of service and humility.
The Revolving Door of Love: The hosts discuss the blessings that come from showing hospitality, even when it's challenging. They share a powerful story about an encounter with a stranger, illustrating the potential for divine encounters and the importance of being open to serving others.
The Addictive Nature of Jesus: The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that Jesus is the ultimate source of satisfaction and that living a life that reflects Him will leave others wanting more.
Key Takeaways:
Life is full of transitions, both exciting and challenging.
God's promises are steadfast, and His plan unfolds perfectly.
The sacrifice of Jesus is the cornerstone of our faith, offering complete salvation.
We are called to live lives of faith, love, and encouragement, always looking towards the future with hope.
Christians are held to a high standard and must strive for righteousness.
Faith is believing in what we cannot see and trusting in God's promises.
Hospitality and humility are essential aspects of living a Christian life.
Jesus is the ultimate source of satisfaction and fulfillment.
Don't miss this episode packed with personal stories, biblical insights, and a whole lot of heart! Whether you're a long-time listener or new to Undaunted Pursuit, this week's episode is sure to encourage and equip you on your own journey of faith.
Stay connected with us and never miss an update! Follow our Linktree to access all our social media, podcast platforms, and more: https://linktr.ee/undauntedpursuit
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Join the conversation! What are your thoughts on the book of Hebrews? How do you stay grounded during times of transition? Share your insights and connect with the Undaunted Pursuit community!
Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes coming soon, and keep pursuing the life God has called you to!

The Holy Land Revealed: A Journey with Dr. Jack Beck

Episode Description:
Ever wondered what it truly means to walk where Jesus walked? This week, Aaron and Marshall sit down with Dr. Jack Beck, a renowned biblical geographer, author, and explorer, to delve into the fascinating world where faith and geography collide. Prepare to have your understanding of the Bible transformed as Dr. Beck, affectionately known as Jack, shares his decades of experience exploring the Holy Land. From the hidden significance of Nazareth to the powerful stories woven into the very terrain of Israel, this episode is a journey you won't want to miss.
Show Notes:
Aaron and Marshall introduce the esteemed Dr. Jack Beck, navigating the nuances of his name (John A. Beck for publications, Jack for personal). Aaron's excitement is palpable, sharing how a talented PR connection led to this special episode. The hosts tease a "cinematic" intro, setting the stage for an exploration of biblical landscapes. Dr. Beck reveals his base in Germantown, Wisconsin, and his constant travels for teaching and media production. An unexpected Wisconsin connection! Aaron discovers Dr. Beck's proximity to his grandmother's home in Colgate.
Dr. Beck shares his lifelong love for the outdoors, stemming from his childhood on his grandparents' farm and family adventures in the Mountain West. He describes his transformative encounter with Barry Beitzel, a leading biblical geographer, during graduate school. The pivotal moment: unpacking Matthew 4:13 and realizing the profound impact of geography on biblical narratives. Dr. Beck emphasizes how geographical understanding is inherent in human communication, and how the Bible, as a story of "place-bound, place-connected people," is deeply rooted in its settings. Aaron coins Dr. Beck "a biblical Josh Gates" from Expedition Unknown.
The conversation dives into the significance of Nazareth and the famous phrase, "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" Dr. Beck explains Nazareth's isolation and lack of historical recognition, making it an unlikely place for the Messiah to originate. He contrasts Nazareth with Cana, highlighting how even fellow Galileans viewed Nazareth with skepticism. The added challenge for Jesus in Judea, where Galileans were seen as "rural, unsophisticated, spiritually suspect." Dr. Beck's "boots on the ground" perspective brings the biblical narrative to life.
Marshall expresses his desire to visit Israel, and Dr. Beck offers a crucial insight: Israel's diverse ecological regions. He explains that understanding the Bible requires grasping the unique geographies of 15 subregions, each with its own climate, geology, and cultural nuances. The importance of understanding how stories are "place-bound" and cannot be transposed to different environments. Aaron brings up the docuseries, and the examples of Jerusalem and Samaria.
Dr. Beck shares the powerful story of Jesus raising a young man from the dead in Nain, highlighting the geographical connection to Elisha's miracle in Shunem. He explains how the people of Nain recognized Jesus as a prophet by linking his actions to the Old Testament event. The significance of the Hebrew word "Elisha" and how Jesus's actions leveraged prior events. The power of place as an organizing principle in biblical narratives. Marshall expresses his excitement to start watching the docuseries.
Aaron brings up the documentary on the Megiddo church and its geographical significance. Dr. Beck explains the strategic importance of the Jezreel Valley as a major international highway. The potential connection between the church and a Roman camp, suggesting early Roman believers. The placement of the Jezreel valley in relation to Samaria. Discussion of the amount of times Dr. Beck has been to Israel.
Dr. Beck addresses the conclusion of his documentary series and his ongoing work. He discusses his plans to return to Israel for teaching and film production, despite recent conflicts. Exciting news: a new film project focusing on the Christmas story, tracing Jesus's origins through Nazareth, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, and Egypt. Discussion of the Capernaum ministry in Texas. The diverse natural beauty of Israel and its role in biblical narratives.
Aaron introduces (Although he doesn't agree with) the controversial idea that biblical events occurred in the United States. Dr. Beck firmly rejects this notion, citing the overwhelming evidence that supports the traditional location of the Holy Land. The inconsistencies in topography, climate, and archaeological findings that make the US theory untenable. The importance of extra-biblical evidence in supporting the Bible's geographical accuracy. The hosts reiterate their commitment to biblical truth.
Dr. Beck discusses his recent release, the "Our Daily Bread Bible Atlas," and its role in expanding on the geographical insights from his film series. He shares details about his upcoming book on heaven, exploring the connections between earthly examples and descriptions of our eternal home. A new workbook project designed to teach the geography of the Holy Land, even without traveling there. The workbook's interactive elements, including map work, reinforcement exercises, and Bible engagement. Information on the next book related to the film on the real story of Christmas.
Dr. Beck discusses the people of Israel, emphasizing their similarities to people everywhere. He acknowledges the diversity within Israeli society, including Jewish and Palestinian populations. He shares a story about a film producer and his passion for adventure. He explains how Israel's modern history and past conflicts inform present-day interactions. A story about a Palestinian bus driver and a historical traffic dispute. Dr. Beck's commitment to maintaining access to all places and avoiding political agendas.
Dr. Beck discusses his past as a pilot and flight instructor, and his ongoing love for aviation. He shares the story of building an airplane with his wife. He explains how his understanding of aviation informs his understanding of landscapes and climate. Invitation to visit Idaho.
Dr. Beck articulates the importance of supporting Israel, emphasizing the opportunities it provides for Christian scholars and students. He contrasts the current openness of Israel with historical periods when Christian access was restricted. Gratitude for the modern state of Israel.
Aaron and Marshall express their gratitude for Dr. Beck's insights. Dr. Beck provides his website: johnabeckauthor.com. Information on how to find his documentaries on YouTube: search "The Holy Land connecting the land and it with its stories" or "The Holy Land Beck." Information on the Our Daily Bread app. Dr. Beck explains how he connected with Our Daily Bread. Final thoughts from Aaron and Marshall, expressing their gratitude for Dr. Beck's insights. Call to action to follow Dr. Jack Beck by following his links:
The Holy Land Website: https://www.odbm.org/campaigns/holy-land-season-4
Jack Beck Social Media
Website: johnabeckauthor.com
Facebook: @johnabeckauthor
Instagram: @johnabeckauthor
Call to action to keep up with Undaunted Pursuit by following this link: https://linktr.ee/undauntedpursuit Recognition of the music used on this podcast:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/roger-gabalda/the-great-wonder
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Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/little-planet/voyager
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