Lost Faith in Church? Why God’s "Plan A" Still Matters with Dr. Carmen Imes

Is church just an outdated tradition? Think again! Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Old Testament scholar Dr. Carmen Joy Imes as we explore why the church—God’s gathered family—remains absolutely central to Christian theology and your personal spiritual growth.

In this episode of The Remnant Radio, hosts Joshua Lewis and Michael Rowntree welcome back Dr. Carmen Joy Imes, associate professor at Biola University’s Talbot School of Theology, to unpack her latest book, Becoming God’s Family: Why the Church Still Matters. Born from reflections during COVID-19, this discussion dives into the biblical roots of the church, starting with Abraham and tracing the concept of the “ekklesia”—the gathered assembly of God’s people—through both the Old and New Testaments.

Whether you’re wrestling with past church hurts, seeking deeper biblical prophecy insights, or simply wanting to strengthen your understanding of Christian community, this episode reaffirms the church as a family waiting together for Christ’s return — messy, but ultimately transformative.

0:00 – Introduction
5:27 – Ekklesia: Gathered Community
7:50 – Church Vocation: Waiting Together for God
12:26 – Biblical Narrative: Worship, Wait, Work, Word
15:03 – Church Continuity from Abraham
18:20 – Deuteronomy: Community Care and Tithe
21:30 – Practical Applications to Modern Church
27:48 – New Testament Use of Old Testament Laws
32:14 – Prophets Rebuking Disorder and False Prophecy
38:49 – Addressing Abuses: Accountability and Leaving
47:15 – Navigating Political Divisions and Unity
55:38 – God's Use of Broken People in Church
59:03 – Closing: Power of Gathering as Family

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