Rebuilders

40 Episodes
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By: Red Church

Rebuilders is an initiative started by Red Church to help churches, leaders, and believers grapple with the issues presented by an increasingly secular society. We firmly believe God is preparing to move and is rebuilding His Church with particular building blocks to enable her to flourish in a post-Christian, secular world.

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The data centre next door
The data centre next door episode artwork
Today at 7:15 AM

Data centres are popping up in backyards, town halls are erupting, and a new kind of populism may be quietly forming—one that cuts across left and right in ways we haven't seen since 2016. Mark, Liddy, and Daniel explore what the AI infrastructure boom actually looks like on the ground, why ordinary people are pushing back, and what the church's response to an increasingly extractive world might simply be: showing up, staying local, and getting on with it where you are.➡️ For subscriber chats and resources, head to ⁠rebuilders.co⁠


When the fringe becomes the mainstream
When the fringe becomes the mainstream episode artwork
06/04/2026

A massive cultural shift has happened in the background—and most of us missed it. Mark unpacks the rise of what he calls the "mystical magical middle": a world where sceptical rationalism is fading, alternative is mainstream, and the people walking through your church doors now believe stranger things than you do. What does mission look like in this new terrain?➡️ For subscriber chats and resources, head to ⁠rebuilders.co⁠


People of hope in a time of declinism
People of hope in a time of declinism episode artwork
05/06/2026

Everything is in decline—or so the story goes. Mark unpacks why declinism has become the dominant lens of our age, where it came from, and how the gospel offers a radically different way of seeing time, the future, and the world we're called to rebuild.

➡️ For subscriber chats and resources, head to rebuilders.co


Casino world. Casino church.
Casino world. Casino church. episode artwork
04/23/2026

What do a hairdryer at Charles de Gaulle Airport, a failed biker gang in Tonga, and your Instagram feed have in common? In this episode, Mark, Liddy, and Daniel explore a creeping cultural trend where the casino logic of prediction markets, betting apps, and algorithmic feeds is invading every corner of life — and reshaping our minds in the process. Mark argues that what's really being enclosed is human attention itself, rewired for addiction and instant gratification at the expense of the slow, reflective engagement that genuine flourishing requires. The church isn't immune — but it might just be uniquely positioned to o...


The oil shock—and what comes next
The oil shock—and what comes next episode artwork
03/25/2026

In this episode of Rebuilders, Mark and Daniel return to the unfolding Iran conflict—but shift the focus from understanding it to preparing for what’s coming.

With fuel supply under threat and global systems already being disrupted, this conversation explores the real-world implications: rising fuel costs, supply chain breakdowns, economic pressure, and increasing political instability. This is not just a distant conflict—it’s something that will impact everyday life.

Mark outlines what kind of crisis we may be heading into, why it’s different from COVID, and how unevenly it will affect different people and...


Iran: A conflict with global consequences
Iran: A conflict with global consequences episode artwork
03/11/2026

In this episode, Mark, Liddy, and Daniel step back to make sense of a fast-moving conflict with consequences that reach far beyond the Middle East. From oil and energy shocks to global shipping routes, rising costs of living, and the possibility of a wider regional war, this is a crisis that could affect everyone on earth.

Mark traces the deeper historical and theological background behind modern Iran, explains why this conflict matters so much, and unpacks the potential ripple effects for politics, economics, and everyday life across the globe. As always, the conversation ends by asking how...


What if we’re told aliens are real?
What if we’re told aliens are real? episode artwork
02/25/2026

With the U.S. government moving to declassify UFO (UAP) files, the conversation around extraterrestrials has shifted from fringe theory to mainstream headlines. In this episode of Rebuilders, Mark, Liddy, and Daniel explore what’s really going on.


Is this about advanced military technology, political distraction, spiritual deception—or something else entirely? And how should Christians respond in a moment where trust in institutions is already fragile?


As the Overton window shifts again, we ask: how do we stay grounded in truth when the world feels increasingly unstable?


Were the conspiracy theorists right? The Epstein files
Were the conspiracy theorists right? The Epstein files episode artwork
02/11/2026

As the Epstein files continue to surface, one question echoes across the globe: were the conspiracy theorists actually right?

In this gripping and sobering episode of Rebuilders, Mark, Liddy, and Daniel return to the topic of conspiracy theories—this time through the lens of the unfolding Epstein scandal. With implications spanning politics, finance, science, intelligence, and celebrity culture, this isn’t just one scandal—it’s a systemic unveiling of how power really works.


Mark offers a wide-ranging cultural and theological reflection on what the Epstein case reveals about elite networks, institutional decay, a...


Trump shakes the global order
Trump shakes the global order episode artwork
01/28/2026

January felt like a decade—and the world order may have just shifted.

In this episode of Rebuilders, we unpack the extraordinary global developments that marked the start of 2026. From the dramatic ICE raids in Minnesota, to Trump’s military strike in Venezuela, to rising tensions in Iran and the eerie blackout in Greenland—this month has signalled more than just upheaval. It reveals a deep, global redefinition of how power works.


Mark explores how the old world order—shaped by institutions, norms, and restraint—is giving way to a new one marked by...


The megatrends that will shape 2026
The megatrends that will shape 2026 episode artwork
12/11/2025

Behind the headlines and social media outrage lies a deeper story—one of rising criminality, spiralling debt, AI disruption, authoritarian drift, and global power shifts. In this special end-of-year episode, the team unpacks five “mega trends” that will define the world in 2026 (but you’ll have to listen to find out what they are).

It’s not just global analysis—it’s a call to clarity, wisdom, and hope in an age of disillusionment. Amid the complexity, this episode finishes with a stirring encouragement: to be a presence of light and confidence in a shaking world.


👉...


A letter to the discouraged
A letter to the discouraged episode artwork
11/12/2025

In a season full of noise, negativity, and weariness, what if what you most need isn’t more strategy—but a word of encouragement?


This episode is a departure from the usual. Mark shares how he felt prompted by the Holy Spirit to scrap the planned topic and speak directly to those feeling worn out, disheartened, and alone. Without Daniel or Liddy knowing where the episode was headed, the conversation turns into a spontaneous moment of ministry—naming six specific forms of discouragement many leaders and believers are facing right now.


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Revival and the Rightward Turn
Revival and the Rightward Turn episode artwork
10/22/2025

In this episode of Rebuilders, we unpack the complex interplay between revival in the church and the political turbulence shaking the West. As young people return to church and spiritual openness increases, so does a populist longing for control, security, and tradition. What does this mean for the future of revival? What are the risks of conflating spiritual renewal with political movements? And how can Christians hold onto hope and discernment in a world that longs for both transcendence and control?


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Moving from an age of anxiety to an age of action
Moving from an age of anxiety to an age of action episode artwork
09/24/2025

From memes to missiles, the digital world is breaking into real life. Are we still in an age of anxiety—or has action already begun?

In this episode of Rebuilders, Mark Sayers, Liddy, and Daniel explore the shifting landscape of culture, politics, and power. As drone incursions threaten borders and internet personalities are assassinated live online, the team asks: Is the age of anxiety giving way to something far more volatile—the age of action?


They unpack the spiritual implications of a world where image becomes violence, where global crises go viral, and...


Managers to Monarchs: The emergence of post-secular power
Managers to Monarchs: The emergence of post-secular power episode artwork
08/27/2025

As the lines between democracy and monarchy blur, what kind of power are we living under—and what kind of authority do we trust?

In this episode of Rebuilders, Mark, Liddy, and Daniel explore the seismic shifts happening in how power is exercised and understood in our time. From Max Weber’s classic categories of authority to the rise of charismatic leaders like Donald Trump, they trace how the erosion of rational-legal power and the resurgence of personality-driven, almost “royal” rule are reshaping politics, culture, and even the church.


Is Trump’s style of l...


The AI revolution: jobs, social cohesion and the hope of humanity
The AI revolution: jobs, social cohesion and the hope of humanity episode artwork
08/13/2025

As AI transforms the world at warp speed, what does it mean for the workforce—and the church? In this episode of Rebuilders, we zoom in on one crucial aspect of the AI revolution: its disruptive impact on white-collar work. What happens when entry-level jobs vanish, AI reshapes our thinking, and a generation raised online struggles with real-world connection?


From the looming white-collar recession to AI-induced creativity loss, Mark offers a sobering yet hopeful vision of how the church can respond—not by competing with machines, but by offering what only humans can: presence, disc...


Are we moving from post-christianity to post-secularism?
Are we moving from post-christianity to post-secularism? episode artwork
07/30/2025

Rebuilders is back after a 12-week break—custard, croissants, and all—and we’re diving into a profound cultural shift. Are we moving from a post-Christian to a post-secular society? What’s fueling the quiet revival across Europe? Why are Gen Z doubling down on both science and astrology? In this episode, Mark Sayers unpacks the surprising spiritual openness emerging in secular cultures, drawing from his recent travels and conversations with leaders across Europe. Join Mark, Liddy, and Daniel as they explore what this shift means for the church and how we can respond with wisdom and faith.


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The Era of Volatility
The Era of Volatility episode artwork
05/07/2025

We examine the volatile state of global politics following recent elections in Australia, Canada, Singapore, and the UK. They discuss how Trump's policies are creating ripple effects worldwide, rising tensions between nuclear powers India and Pakistan, and how both the US and China are working to disrupt the established global order. We make the case that we've entered an era of unpredictability where stability and consistency become countercultural, offering insights on how Christians can create "small worlds of stability" amid increasing global volatility.

To support, subscribe or find out more about Rebuilders, head to https://rebuilders.co<...


What is the big spiritual trend in all the chaos?
What is the big spiritual trend in all the chaos? episode artwork
04/16/2025

In this episode, we explore an emerging shift in global spiritual renewal. We examine surprising data from around the world showing increased interest in Christianity, particularly among Gen Z in Europe and older adults in Australia. Against the backdrop of ongoing global crises, we discuss how this 'green light moment' represents an opportunity for churches to respond with authenticity rather than entertainment. What if we're witnessing the fruits of years of contending prayer and faithful presence, encouraging listeners to recognise and respond to this spiritual openness with compelling communities where people encounter both God and genuine human connection?


Tariffs, trade wars and the bigger picture
Tariffs, trade wars and the bigger picture episode artwork
04/09/2025

Donald Trump's "Liberation Day" tariff announcement has triggered global market turmoil and marked a fundamental shift in the world economy. We explore how these extensive tariffs on over 100 nations represent not just negotiation tactics but an attempt to completely reorganise global trade. There are a number of possible scenarios ranging from global recession to America's economic isolation while noting that the rest of the world is already forming new alliances in response. We hope to give perspective on a pivotal moment that could permanently alter international relations, diminish American economic dominance, and reshape the political landscape in countries worldwide...


Platforms to Pillars – How God uses pillars for renewal
Platforms to Pillars – How God uses pillars for renewal episode artwork
04/02/2025

This episode explores Mark’s book 'Platforms to Pillars', examining the shift toward platform-driven leadership, where influence is based on followers rather than character. In contrast, biblical “pillars” create space for God’s presence and others to flourish. We discuss how pillars drive spiritual renewal by turning inspiration into lasting change, emphasising that true renewal requires not just charismatic personalities or institutions but risk-taking leaders who persevere with character over decades.


How Silicon Valley took over Washington – Part 2
How Silicon Valley took over Washington – Part 2 episode artwork
03/13/2025

In this eye-opening second instalment of our series on Silicon Valley's influence in Washington, we dive beyond politics into the technological ideologies and religious underpinnings shaping American culture. Is there a deeper worldview driving the current administration's decisions? Are we witnessing the birth of a new religion in our midst? Join us for what might be our wildest episode yet as we explore questions that blur the line between reality and science fiction.To support, subscribe or find out more about Rebuilders, head to https://rebuilders.co


How Silicon Valley took over Washington – Part 1
How Silicon Valley took over Washington – Part 1 episode artwork
03/05/2025

Uncover how tech titans are transforming Washington's power landscape. From Elon Musk's chainsaw moments to unexpected political chess moves, this episode traces the rise of Silicon Valley's new ideology and its global impact.

A deep dive into technology, politics, and culture that will change how you see modern leadership.


Move fast and break things. The new global revolution.
Move fast and break things. The new global revolution. episode artwork
02/19/2025

Mark examines the seismic shifts in Washington following Trump's inauguration. From USAID to Europe's changing role, we explore the reshaping of the global order while asking: How can we maintain our spiritual bearings in these turbulent times?To support, subscribe or find out more about Rebuilders, head to https://rebuilders.co


How the Trump presidency will reshape the world
How the Trump presidency will reshape the world episode artwork
01/22/2025

Trump's in. Everything's changing. What happens when Wall Street suits, Silicon Valley techs, and Pentagon brass join forces with dreams of Mars colonies? And what do God's people have to do with it? This week on Rebuilders, we're tackling the mother of all power shifts and what it means for... well, everything. Buckle up - this one's big.


An end of year encouragement
An end of year encouragement episode artwork
11/27/2024


Is this the year that woke broke?
Is this the year that woke broke? episode artwork
11/20/2024


The U.S. Election: a macro view
The U.S. Election: a macro view episode artwork
11/07/2024


Practices: reflections after a decade
Practices: reflections after a decade episode artwork
10/30/2024


Live: Renewal, outpouring & creativity with Al Gordon
Live: Renewal, outpouring & creativity with Al Gordon episode artwork
10/23/2024


Are we sleepwalking into war?
Are we sleepwalking into war? episode artwork
10/16/2024


Three underreported megatrends shaping culture
Three underreported megatrends shaping culture episode artwork
09/04/2024


Leadership in a time of declining power
Leadership in a time of declining power episode artwork
08/21/2024


Revival vs Revivalism
Revival vs Revivalism episode artwork
08/14/2024


Reports from the front line of renewal
Reports from the front line of renewal episode artwork
08/07/2024


Election 2024 – five trends to watch out for
Election 2024 – five trends to watch out for episode artwork
07/24/2024


Stewarding an outpouring with David Thomas
Stewarding an outpouring with David Thomas episode artwork
06/24/2024


Elite power, corruption and conspiracy theories in contemporary society
Elite power, corruption and conspiracy theories in contemporary society episode artwork
06/05/2024


The five signs we're moving into a new order
The five signs we're moving into a new order episode artwork
05/29/2024


Are we on the brink of a spiritual revival?
Are we on the brink of a spiritual revival? episode artwork
05/08/2024


Behind the rise of extremism
Behind the rise of extremism episode artwork
05/01/2024