Dungeons & Disciples

The Most Important Thing

In this episode, Tony and Josh have something to say: they’re… sorry? As the season progressed, they realized they had overlooked one of the most important parts of the game: having fun! Character creation, roleplaying, rules, and creative tools give us plenty to think about, but overthinking can distract from what matters most at the table. Tony and Josh discuss moments that stifled their creativity, how they overcame them, and what to do when the game stops feeling fun. Then, for the first time, they put that lesson into practice with a mini homebrew adventure. They also tackle a difficult spiritual topic: idol worship. What is an idol, how can even good things take God’s place, and how does that damage our walk with Him? Together, they explore how surrendering those idols can lead to renewal and transformation. Buckle up. This one gets honest, authentic, and convicting. -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com Christian Influence info: Join the Christian Influence Discord CI Socials: CI TikTok CI Instagram Check out their podcasts here: Of Lore & Legend Under the Influence

There Is So Much More

In this episode, Tony & Josh are joined by Jerry and Levi from Christian Influence, a digital ministry where the mission is to cultivate “a digital community centered on faith and fellowship to disciple believers and guide seekers towards a transformative heart change for Jesus.” The way these gentlemen do that is through the video game community primarily. They also run a D&D actual play show called, “Of Lore and Legend,” bringing to life the first clean and Christ oriented D&D actual play to digital media. Jerry and Levi are trailblazers for the D&D community, and all of the boys join together as brothers in Christ to have fun and discuss what more is out there for gaming ministries and how to walk in that. -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com Christian Influence info: Join the Christian Influence Discord CI Socials: CI TikTok CI Instagram Check out their podcasts here: Of Lore & Legend Under the Influence

Artificial Intelligence & Intellectual Anxiety

Our world is growing more technologically advanced year after year. We have seen the rapid expanse and usage of something in particular over the past few years: Artificial Intelligence. With AI rising, it has shown to have many capabilities, including content creation, artwork, music, and much more. The true question to unpack is how this has been utilized in D&D in a creative way. Has it been beneficial or harmful to the gaming community? Tony and Josh unpack what AI is and their opinions and insights on how AI has impacted D&D and how to balance this tool with our own creativity. Tony and Josh also unpack what AI has done for anxiety within the Christian lifestyle. With such a resource at our disposals, we run the risk of information overload, thus producing overthinking, over worrying, and anxious mentalities. They have a great discussion on not running to AI for everything and, instead, leaning on the Holy Spirit for our guidance and to cultivate the ground of our hearts. -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com Click here to see Tony's short film: "The Dragon"

What Am I Missing?

There is something that you have been missing and didn’t even realize it. Do you know what it might be? Trust us. Once we will tell you, it’s going to BLOW 👏🏻 YOUR 👏🏻 MIND!!! 👏🏻 In this episode, Josh and Tony talk about staying in tune with and learning your created character, an element that is missing and/or misunderstood as we play. The more you play the game, we need to understand how to devote more time to evolving and creating a deeper story for our character. It may seem like a lot right now, but the boys are committed to helping you become the best player you can become, which will transfer your gaming tables! When it comes to our spiritual walks with Jesus, there is a simple concept that we may have been missing that will transform how we walk: our true inheritance. Tony and Josh breakdown our inheritance in Christ, both what we have been given and what we have yet to be given. Wait…. What? You mean…. Christ has more in store for us??? YES, HE DOES!!! And when you realize all that is in store, you will run the race set before you with more endurance and greater joy! Come and lean in! This episode is one that will truly transform EVERYTHING! 🔥🙌🏻 Also, here is a link to the new fav bop....... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nm9codc_zwk&list=RDNm9codc_zwk&start_radio=1 -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com Check out Tony's new YouTube Channel: From0to3D

Defying Death

It’s time for a THROWBACK!! In this episode, Tony and Josh are going back to their original roots, discussing a simple topic within the D&D world: Death Saves. You will learn the mechanics of death saves and how to get creative with them. And believe it or not… the boys don’t quite see eye to eye on the matter of creativity with it. 👀 Now, did you think you were going to get some random biblical talk as we approach Easter? ABSOLUTELY NOT! Tony and Josh approach the importance of Jesus’s death and resurrection from a unique angle. They also talk about the importance of placing your faith in Jesus and why the upward call to follow and declare Christ is so vital, looking past the non-essentials and fixing our eyes on Christ and glorifying His name. -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com Check out Tony's new YouTube Channel: From0to3D

Know Before You Go

Have you ever walked into an environment where you didn’t know anybody in the room or about anything that was going on? Yeah, we have too. For our introverts, it’s the most awkward experience in the world. For our extroverts, you’re simply built differently, and that’s ok. But either way, before you walk into any situation we would all love to know what we are getting into before we go. In this Episode, Tony and Josh talk about the importance of "knowing before you go" in both the D&D and Biblical aspect. In D&D, players and DM’s/GM’s can utilize what is known as a “Session 0”, an informative session prior to your game beginning that outlines everything you need to know before you start the game. The boys discuss what that can look like, and provide creative insights on how you can use them to your advantage to create an energetic game play environment. Within the Word of God, we enter into different seasons and assignments without knowing essential things about who God is, who we are, where we are going, or knowing that we aren’t perfect. Without knowing these things, this walk becomes more difficult day after day. But when we begin to understand essential things, we will understand how to cultivate our walks even better with where we are planted. So simple, so powerful, so needed! Let’s dive in!!! Roll 20 Blog Deck of Player Safety (Created by Tom Nelson) -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com Check out Tony's new YouTube Channel: From0to3D

It's Your Choice

You. Aren’t. Ready. For. This. 🔥 In this Episode, Tony and Josh discuss something very important: Character Creation. Why is this so important? Well… you can’t play the game without one! 🤣 The boys cover important topics such as how they build characters, write backstories, and how to stay true to the character build. And the cool part about is that IT’S ALL YOUR CHOICE! While the story is not your choice, the boys will show how the choice of your build gives the ability to make even deeper choices as the game goes on. This episode's Biblical conversation travels to new depths. Tony and Josh have a very important conversation about the choices you have in your walk with Jesus. Choices are all around us, and we need to be aware that sin sits at our door and desires us, pushing us to make the wrong choices. Yet when we cultivate our relationship with Jesus, we will find that all of the right choices lie in Him. But much like the story of D&D… there are things that have happened in this life that are not our choice. Tony and Josh approach this topic carefully, and the Lord has laid a special message on their hearts for you to hear. And once you do, know that there are resources that are available to you that we have posted below ⬇️ 👇🏻 You are loved. You are worthy. You are cherished. Previously mentioned phone numbers: Suicide Hotline: dial 988 or call 1-800-273-8255 Abuse Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com Check out Tony's new YouTube Channel: From0to3D

I Will Not Be Afraid

Tony and Josh begin this seasons adventure with this topic in mind: Create and Cultivate. This season, they want to take you on an adventure to not only spark your creativity and pursue it, but to also grow your relationship with Jesus deeper than ever! But how do we start? Sometimes, it can be scary to start something new. It can be easy to let our fear drive us away from our creativity. It can be a detriment to let fear drive us back from pursuing the Lord. In this episode, Tony and Josh talk about how to overcome the fear that stops us from being creative, and why we can’t let it stop us. But it doesn’t stop there. They also talk about why fear in present in our walks with Christ, and they have a powerful discussion on one of the most powerful topics and meditations in our walks with Christ: The Fear of the Lord. We are kicking off this season STRONG! 💪🏻 why? Because WE WILL NOT BE AFRAID!!! 🔥 -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com Check out Tony's new YouTube Channel: From0to3D

Season 3 Trailer

Happy New Year, everyone! The new year brings in a new season for us here on Dungeons & Disciples. We're so glad you have all come alongside us on this journey. It has been a crazy year, but one we look at with a sense of accomplishment and purpose as we move into this new season. We so glad you're here with us! -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

Time Cast a Spell on You, But You Wont...

...won't write the rest of the lyrics for copyright reasons lol. Here it is, the last character class! What a way to end this season, as Warlocks are… interesting characters. They are spell casters that derive their power from particular sources, acquired not by birth or study, but by pacts. Once they receive their magic, they are driven by their pacts. Some try to flee their pacts by deception, some devote even more to the patron they made a pact with. These classes can be intimidating within the confines of a Christian D&D table, but Tony and Josh approach this character class with humility and an open mind. As we learn about this class, would the boys consider playing this class? They present the facts of the character and an answer to their own preferences/convictions. The boys also used this character class as an entryway into a powerful biblical conversation. This life doesn't just have physical battles. There is a spiritual element that we as followers of Jesus can not neglect. If we fail to neglect these, we fall into the danger of worshipping anything/anyone other than Jesus. The Word of God clearly outlines what the enemy is trying to do, and they bring that to light so we may walk more prepared into the spiritual fight. We refuse to submit to the things of this world, and the boys will help provide clarity about how we can walk out of worshipping false idols and what we can do daily to keep our thoughts fixed on the things above, not on the things of this world. We are so excited to announce the coming of Season 3 of Dungeons & Disciples! Our trailer will be releasing soon, and you DO NOT want to miss it!!! :) -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

• Transcript

Let’s Settle the Debate…

One of D&D’s most popular debates: who is better, Wizards or Sorcerers? In this episode, Tony and Josh go through not just one but BOTH of these classes, reviewing the pros and cons of each. Could the boys, once and for all, settle the debate about who is better? While these debates continue in the D&D community, we often see much debate in the body of Christ. Thanks to Social Media, these debates are all over. While there are videos of Christians arguing against those who don’t follow Jesus, we also see Christians fighting against each other. While Wizards and Sorcerers are a source of debate, we can’t ignore their own vital roles within an adventuring party. Knowing this, Tony and Josh have a simple mission with this episode: settling the debates we hear. The boys come together to talk about their own personal walks and some of the debates that they have heard. They both have a very open and vulnerable conversation that attempts to settle the debate for those who don’t know Jesus, and those who know Jesus but are struggling with their walk because of the amount of information. Tony and Josh deeply desire Kingdom mindset, looking to push the debates and fleshly semantics aside, gleaning from this passage: “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12) -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

• Transcript

Into the Unknown

Rogues are a people of the shadows. Everything from combat to thievery is done there, and it is the place where they will always thrive. In this episode, Tony and Josh discuss the class and overall mechanics of the Rogue Class, exploring their many useful creatures and how they contribute to an adventuring party. The boys also have a fun surprise at the end of the character description! While rogues live for the thrill of the shadows, followers of Jesus… not so much. A piece of wisdom every Christian should live by is this: “No dark corners.” What does that statement mean? Tony and Josh deep dive into what exactly these dark corners are, why we tend to hide in the shadows, and how we begin to come out of those dark corners. If we are to ever grow in community and be the best version of ourselves, then we need to be vulnerable. We aren’t just called to unload our mess on everyone and everything around us. But Jesus is available - and eagerly waiting - for us to draw near to him, for He already knows what we are struggling with and what we need. Dive in to another powerful and timely episode! -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

• Transcript

Becoming a Wilderness Warrior

Here is a simple question: have you ever used the phrase “I feel like I’m in a wilderness season?” Trust, we have too. It is a common phrase that is often misunderstood. In this episode, Josh and Tony continue the journey of character classes with Rangers. They are classes that thrive in the wild, finding joy and peace in the quiet and stillness of it. It is quite admirable and beautiful to think about! Josh and Tony also discuss the Biblical understanding of what “wilderness” means, from the Israelite journeys to Jesus' own experience in it for 40 days. It can be a hard place to be, and an even harder place to grow in. They reveal, however, that it is a beautiful place to begin the process of developing a deep desire for Jesus, learning that we can’t survive the wilderness on our own. PS: Huge shout-out to Lorehaven producer Morgan Ruthart for taking the time to help with editing! We appreciate you more than you will ever know -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

The Mystery Within

What truly makes D&D what it is? Some would say the players, and others would say the food you order before the session starts. What truly makes D&D so magical, however, is the Lore behind it all! In this episode, Tony & Josh are joined by Seth Burnham. He helped start and create the show Lorehaven Hearth, another Christian D&D podcast where they explore the various lore from the world of D&D and other mystical realms. They take a deep dive into the reason behind his podcast and how the Lord has been using it since its inception. Tony, Josh, and Seth also take a deep look at some of the greatest lore in the Bible: The Parables. They delve into an incredible time of exploring what parables are, their personal favorites, and how these parables within the New Testament have shaped the lives of believers past and present. We want to thank Seth, Morgan, and Celina for all that they do within the D&D community. Their heart behind Lorehaven Hearth is incredible to witness, and we here at Dungeons & Disciples truly see the Holy Spirit working in a mighty way through them and their content. If you haven't followed their show, click the link below to subscribe and start listening! -------------------- Lorehaven Hearth can be found anywhere you listen to podcasts! Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts, & more! Follow them here on Instagram to see behind-the-scenes pics and vids! -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

• Transcript

Our Highest Calling

Devotion, duty, and… assisted suicide? Well, that took an interesting turn 🤔 In this episode, Josh & Tony continue their journey discussing character classes. They go over one of the most versatile combat classes that there is: Paladins. They are fierce warriors that deal a lot of damage, yet their devotion to a higher calling gives them tremendous diversity with spell casting and healing. Josh & Tony also discuss a key concept of the Paladin class as it relates to the Bible. They enter into a simple but powerful teaching about the “upward call of God” and discuss the concept of “steadfast living.” We all go through rough seasons and bountiful seasons. However, we can’t let those seasons define who we are in Christ. We must combat them with the Word of God, which shows us a beautiful perspective on the word “steadfast.” Share this episode with a friend, because we know that this Word could set someone free, shift hearts, and transform lives! -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

• Transcript

The Road Less Traveled

Monks are rigorous in combat, filled with a power that gives them incredible speed and proficiency with and without weapons. Out of combat, they become more mentally disciplined and driven by an internal desire for something greater. This class is unique, to say the least. In this episode, Josh and Tony discuss the Monk class with its many traits and skill sets. Since the 2024 rules premiered, they were both pretty amazed at some of the changes made, and they discuss their opinions (all good things, naturally). Josh and Tony also uncover some amazing Biblical truths. In the word of God, there are many disciplines that we as Christian’s can focus on. Sometimes, that journey can be a little overwhelming, but they believe the key to leaning into a disciplined life with Christ is this: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” ‭‭(John‬ ‭3‬:‭30‬) The message is a simple yet powerful reminder that humility and relationship are the foundations to becoming like Monks: warriors for Christ, proficient with the Sword of the Spirit, and in tune with the Holy Spirit that fills us with a peace that only comes from Him. -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

• Transcript

The Fight No One Sees

Have you ever grown up wishing you could fight like your favorite superhero or fantasy character? To wield a lightsaber like a Jedi, to swing a sword like one from Lord of the Rings, or to fight with the ferocity of the character you make for your D&D games. We all love the thrill of victory and the intensity of battle! But, coming back to the real world, there is a fight that we battle every day. This fight has a real Enemy, but we don’t fight it with swords, warhammers, or lightsabers. This war, however, may not be known to all except you. Sometimes we wear the armor to show how strong we are, but deep down we may be deep in the struggle, never telling anyone about it… In this Episode, Tony & Josh talk about the “Fighter” class in D&D. It is one of the more common classes for first-time players with a lot of versatility and advantages. From new players to advanced, Fighters offer a wide variety of skill sets that make it fun for all. But they don’t stop there. Tony & Josh go into deep and vulnerable conversation about the fights that many never realize we go through. They dive into topics such as avoiding help, the dangers of fighting your battles alone, and wearing tattered armor. This is an episode that you will want to share with someone. Ready??? Let’s go to war!!! ⚔️🛡️ -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

Back to the Garden

Have you ever wondered what Eden was like? Yes, we can read about it in Genesis. But have you ever wondered what it was REALLY like; the beauty of the environment, the breathtaking sounds, the scents of the flowers and air, the time walking with God in the cool of the day… it something that is hard to picture, but it’s something we long for. In this episode, Josh and Tony go over the Druid class. This is a magic-wielding class that harnesses their power from the environment around them. Druid’s understand their environment and use it to their advantage for devastating damage and beautiful role play. But God designed us to walk with Him in a Garden. But because of a fallen, sinful world that garden was hidden from us. Thanks to Jesus Christ, we have full communion and fellowship with The Gardener once more! Josh and Tony also talk about exactly how God’s creation looks and what we can do to reconnect with The Gardner, understand the beauty behind what that title truly means. -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

Do You Accept This Quest?

Just like the random, shady guy at the tavern or The Courier from Skyrim, there is always a quest in store for us. Tony and Josh are joined by a returning special guest and DM Stephen Katchur for their first promo episode of a very special project he has been working on that is finally time to reveal to fellow D&D players. We hope that you follow and subscribe RIGHT NOW!!! (No, seriously. Right now. Don’t worry, we’ll wait. 😇) They also dive deep into the subject of The True Quest: The Great Commission. They unpack it line by line with practical tools and insights that will help you not just understand the scripture but to truly go out and put it into motion in the world today. There is only one question left to ask: Do you accept this quest? Follow QuestGiversGuide here on YouTube. -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

• Transcript

Sacred Spells & Spiritual Fire

In this episode, Josh & Tony continue their journey through character classes, taking this episode to talk about Clerics. While the class may seem generic, they have a variety of cool features that makes them versatile and a fun class to play! One thing the boys honed in on with this class is a great discussion about Holy Spirit. What exactly is the Holy Spirit? What power does it hold, and how do we access that? While you may not fully know now, we promise that the Holy Spirit moved in this episode, leading to a lot of authentic and vulnerable conversation about the hurts that have occurred, how the church has responded during these times, and how we as believers can no longer quench it! You don’t want to miss it!! -------------------- Dungeons & Disciples (Main Theme) composed by Tony Benda (used, of course, with permission). Join us on Discord! Instagram: @dungeonsanddisciples Facebook @DungeonsAndDisciples Email us at: dungeonsdisciples@gmail.com

• Transcript