Elevation with Steven Furtick: Episode Summary - "God Chose Me" (Charles Metcalf)

Release Date: June 8, 2025
Host: iHeartPodcasts
Guest Speaker: Charles Henry Metcalf III
Duration: Approximately 50 minutes

Introduction

The episode begins with Pastor Steven Furtick welcoming listeners to the "Elevation" podcast, expressing gratitude for their presence and setting an encouraging tone for the message ahead.

Personal Testimony and Background (00:22 - 10:00)

Charles Metcalf III shares his personal journey and deep-rooted connection to the church. Growing up in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Charles recounts his early experiences in a small church led by his father, highlighting the profound impact of worship songs about the blood of Jesus.

Notable Quote:

"God found me in the middle of the road. And I'm not worried about what you think about me, and I'm not trying to impress you."
(08:45)

Charles introduces his family, proudly presenting his children and emphasizing the significance of creating a strong, faith-centered environment at home. He speaks fondly of his wife, Abby Rose, and their mixed-race family, celebrating the diversity and love that binds them.

Diving into Scripture: Galatians (10:00 - 20:00)

Charles directs the congregation to the Book of Galatians, his favorite scripture, and reads key passages that emphasize the divine origin of his message and God's intentional choice.

Notable Quote:

"If you believe in your heart and confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord, you shall be saved."
(16:30)

He underscores the importance of personal confessions and beliefs, drawing parallels between biblical teachings and everyday life experiences. Charles introduces the concept of the "Metcalf Confessions," a daily family ritual that reinforces core values like peace, purpose, kindness, and love.

The Power of Confession and Belief (20:00 - 35:00)

Charles delves into the psychological and spiritual significance of confessions, explaining how the beliefs we hold about ourselves shape our realities. He shares relatable anecdotes about societal pressures, personal insecurities, and the internal dialogues that often undermine our confidence.

Notable Quote:

"The power of confession is not something I'm making up today. In fact, the Bible would tell you in Romans 10:9..."
(19:50)

Using examples from both personal life and scripture, Charles illustrates how positive affirmations rooted in faith can transform one's self-perception and actions. He emphasizes that believing "God chose me" instills readiness, boldness, and reverence, enabling believers to navigate life's challenges with divine strength.

Practical Applications: Living as Chosen Individuals (35:00 - 45:00)

Charles outlines three key outcomes of embracing the belief that God has chosen each individual:

1. Readiness: Being prepared to act according to God's will at any moment.
2. Ridiculousness: Embracing a boldness that defies societal norms and expectations.
3. Reverence: Maintaining a respectful and awe-filled attitude toward one's faith and purpose.

He shares humorous and heartfelt stories from his marriage and parenting journey, illustrating how these principles play out in everyday life. Charles encourages listeners to adopt a mindset where they recognize and act upon their divine selection, fostering a life of purpose and impact.

Notable Quote:

"When you believe God chose you, it keeps you ready. It keeps you ridiculous. It keeps you reverent."
(37:15)

Prayer and Call to Action (45:00 - 49:34)

The episode culminates in a powerful prayer session led by Charles, inviting listeners to surrender their insecurities and embrace their divine calling. He challenges them to guard their hearts, reject negative self-beliefs, and boldly affirm that "God chose me."

Notable Quote:

"Every single person, we are all here asking you to do something deep in our soul that is greater than just a moment, Lord Jesus."
(48:50)

Charles extends an altar call, encouraging listeners to publicly declare their faith and commitment to living out their God-given purpose. He emphasizes community support and the transformative power of collective affirmation.

Conclusion and Final Encouragement (49:34 - 50:06)

Pastor Steven Furtick wraps up the episode by thanking listeners and acknowledging those who support the ministry through generosity. He invites listeners to engage further by subscribing, sharing, and connecting via social media.

Key Takeaways:

• Divine Selection: Embracing the belief that God has chosen you transforms your self-perception and actions.
• Confession and Belief: Positive affirmations rooted in faith can overcome internal and external challenges.
• Family and Community: Building a faith-centered family environment reinforces core values and supports individual growth.
• Actionable Faith: Being ready, embracing boldness, and maintaining reverence are essential aspects of living a purpose-driven life.

Inspirational Quotes:

• "I carry peace. So in the name of Jesus, I don't know what's going on here, but Metcalfe carries peace. It's who we are, it's what we do."
  (13:20)

• "God chose you. He put you here. You didn't get yourself here."
  (38:50)

• "When you believe God chose you, it keeps you ready. It keeps you ridiculous. It keeps you reverent."
  (37:15)

This episode of "Elevation with Steven Furtick" offers a profound exploration of self-identity through faith, encouraging listeners to recognize their divine purpose and live confidently as chosen individuals. Charles Metcalf's heartfelt testimony and practical insights provide a roadmap for integrating faith into daily life, fostering personal growth, and strengthening community bonds.