Episode 458: BEMA Kokomo — The Body of Christ

Release Date: July 10, 2025
Host: Marty Solomon
Co-Host: Brent Billings
Guests: Members of the BEMA Kokomo discussion group from Indiana

Introduction

In Episode 458 of The BEMA Podcast, Marty Solomon and co-host Brent Billings welcome the BEMA Kokomo discussion group from Indiana. Launched in 2021, this group is one of the earliest BEMA discussion communities, delving deep into the Bible’s historical context and reconstructing common readings through a historical lens.

Group Formation and Background

Marty introduces the Kokomo group, highlighting its organic beginnings. Steve, the original facilitator, shares how the group formed during a period of personal searching and deconstruction of faith. The group grew through personal connections, with members like Joel and Brent Faulkner bringing diverse backgrounds from different churches into the fold.

Notable Quote:
Steve reflects, “I was searching and deconstruction is one way you could put it... I stumbled onto your podcast, and I was hooked from the gate.”
(03:32)

Practical Aspects of the Group

Erin provides insights into the group's logistics, emphasizing Steve’s role in organizing and maintaining consistency. The group met regularly, adapting to members' lives, including accommodating new parents by adjusting meeting times. They navigated through five seasons, fostering deep connections and enduring friendships.

Notable Quote:
Erin notes, “Steve was always prepared... he counted it down to the minutes so we weren't listening to too many minutes each week.”
(07:01)

Deepening Conversations and Growth

Steve elaborates on the group’s dynamics, highlighting the balance between structured discussions and organic conversations. The environment fostered vulnerability and openness, allowing members to explore their faith without the pressures of leadership roles.

Notable Quote:
Steve shares, “Nothing was off limits... we could fully unpack everything we had learned.”
(09:29)

Expansion and Outreach

Joel discusses expanding BEMA beyond the Kokomo group, sharing success stories like the resurgence of a young woman’s relationship with the Bible. The group’s impact extended to the broader community, inspiring sessions that attract larger numbers and deeper engagement.

Notable Quote:
Joel expresses, “She found herself not hiding from the Bible, but running to the text for the very first time in a really long time.”
(12:30)

Individual Journeys and Contributions

Each member shares their personal connection to BEMA and how it intertwines with their professional lives:

• Steve: Finds his faith bulletproof yet continuously curious, emphasizing the importance of holding beliefs loosely to remain open to growth.

  Quote: “I have more questions now than I have answers... holding things more loosely.”
  (14:54)

• Dean: A worship leader and musician, Dean discusses his song "Show Me Christmas," inspired by the group's discussions on grief and loss during the holidays.

  Quote: “The chorus presents this quick story of a person asking for Jesus to show them Christmas.”
  (27:25)

• Brent Faulkner: A pastor and author, Brent shares his book "Trust Fall," which explores the fall of man and God's faithfulness. He emphasizes the transformative power of the group on his leadership and teaching.

  Quote: “The book is called Trust Fall... it walks through Genesis 3 and portrays God’s faithfulness.”
  (30:41)

• Andrea: An OB GYN, Andrea connects her professional work with BEMA, highlighting the importance of curiosity and communal support in her approach to patient care.

  Quote: “BEMA has shined through in that for me... creating a space of trust.”
  (35:09)

• Terry: A chaplain who overcame a life-threatening surgery, Terry reflects on the group's support and the profound connections formed through shared vulnerability.

  Quote: “Everything's going well now, but it was a real dangerous situation.”
  (39:27)

• Whitney: A nurse and community servant, Whitney discusses her ministry work and how BEMA has expanded her understanding of different cultures and communal fellowship.

  Quote: “BEMA opened up learning different cultures and interacting with curiosity.”
  (42:50)

The Body of Christ in Action

Marty synthesizes the discussions, emphasizing that the Kokomo group exemplifies the Body of Christ—diverse individuals united by shared faith and mutual support. The group's ability to foster resurrection moments highlights the transformative power of authentic fellowship and collective scripture engagement.

Notable Quote:
Marty states, “This is what the body of Christ looks like... resilient and transformational.”
(40:13)

Closing Reflections and Encouragement

Joel and other members share heartfelt reflections on the group's journey, acknowledging both the beauty and sadness of transitioning phases. They emphasize the lasting impact of their shared experiences and the enduring nature of their faith community.

Notable Quote:
Joel remarks, “Making a safe place for people to ask the big scary questions... changes everything.”
(46:12)

Marty concludes by encouraging other BEMA groups to embrace authentic fellowship, highlighting the Kokomo group's example as a testament to what can be achieved when diverse individuals come together with empathy and curiosity.

Final Thoughts

Episode 458 serves as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of BEMA discussion groups. The Kokomo group's journey underscores the importance of vulnerability, structured support, and genuine community in deepening one's faith and understanding of the Bible. Listeners are left inspired by the profound connections and personal growth experienced by the members, illustrating the essence of being the Body of Christ in action.

For More Information:
Visit bamontodiscipleship.com for show notes and to connect with the BEMA Kokomo group.