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Alex Warren's "Ordinary" debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 back in February of this year and has spent all of Summer '25 (so far) in the #1 position. It's catchy, it's deep, and it's fun to sing. But what does it mean? And how is it shaping us as we sing along in the car for the 50th time?
With lyrics that mention heaven's gates, the sanctuary, the altar, and even the Lord, it can leave us with familiar feelings of faith and spirituality. But should warning lights start to flash once we recognize poetic references to God and worship are being focused on another human? Or is it a complement? An artist using powerful biblical images of worship (along with a healthy dollop of poetic license) to describe the deep and mysterious experience of romantic love?
We're enjoying a short break in our typical format to dig into some of Summer 2025's big hits in music and movies. This week, we're joined by Juilliard Christian Fellowship Alumna, Lydia Goldie, as we discuss the implications of Alex Warren's hit song "Ordinary" and what it means to be thoughtful about music and the impact it has on our discipleship journey with Jesus.
Watch the "Ordinary" music video
RELATED EPISODE(S)
With lyrics that mention heaven's gates, the sanctuary, the altar, and even the Lord, it can leave us with familiar feelings of faith and spirituality. But should warning lights start to flash once we recognize poetic references to God and worship are being focused on another human? Or is it a complement? An artist using powerful biblical images of worship (along with a healthy dollop of poetic license) to describe the deep and mysterious experience of romantic love?
We're enjoying a short break in our typical format to dig into some of Summer 2025's big hits in music and movies. This week, we're joined by Juilliard Christian Fellowship Alumna, Lydia Goldie, as we discuss the implications of Alex Warren's hit song "Ordinary" and what it means to be thoughtful about music and the impact it has on our discipleship journey with Jesus.
Watch the "Ordinary" music video
RELATED EPISODE(S)
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Creators and Guests
Host
Jon Steele
Jon Steele, a 2011 InterVarsity alumnus from Minnesota State Mankato, lives in Mankato, MN with his wife Kaitlynn and their two daughters. He’s been on staff with InterVarsity since 2012 and has been hosting After IV since its debut in 2020. He is also the producer and primary editor for the podcast. Jon enjoys gaming, reading, and leading worship at his church.
What is After IV?
Hey, InterVarsity alumni! This is After IV, your podcast for navigating life after graduation. This is both an exciting and potentially tricky transition you’re making and you might feel a little unsure about the coming weeks and months. We’re here to provide you with expert advice, practical skills, and plenty of encouragement as you learn how to keep saying "Yes!" to Jesus in your new context. This is After IV, and this podcast is for you, alumni.