Podcast 159: How to Really Belong in Church (JJ Jones)

What does “family” really mean—and what if the church was meant to be more than just a place we attend?

In this powerful conversation, I sit down with JJ Jones to discuss his contribution to the book Reimagining Church as Family and the deeper, biblical vision of what it means to belong. When many of us hear the word “family,” we picture something like a perfect Norman Rockwell scene—but reality is often far more complex. From single parents and adoptive families to empty nesters and spiritual orphans, today’s world is filled with people searching for connection, purpose, and belonging.

JJ challenges us to rethink the role of the church—not just as a support system for families, but as family itself.

Together, we explore:

• What Scripture really says about family and belonging
• How the church can become a true spiritual home
• The meaning of being adopted into God’s family (John 1:12; Ephesians 2:19–22)
• Ministering to spiritual orphans, grandparents raising children, and those in transitional seasons
• Why every believer has a role in generational discipleship

This conversation will challenge and encourage you to see the church the way God designed it—a place where everyone belongs, grows, and is called into purpose.

If you’ve ever felt disconnected, overlooked, or unsure of your place in the church, this episode is for you.

About JJ Jones

JJ Jones, D.Min., M.Div., serves as pastor of groups at Fellowship Bible Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, and an adjunct professor at Toccoa Falls College. He has nearly 40 years in ministry and co-authored the book Reimagining Church as Family. He is passionate about equipping others to cultivate legacies of faith. He and his wife Anna live in Franklin, Tennessee, and have two children and two grandchildren.

Order the book here.

The post Podcast 159: How to Really Belong in Church (JJ Jones) appeared first on Before You Quit.