This episode features blogger Shannon Makujina. Listen in as Shannon talks not only about her journey away from fundamentalism, but we both discuss what happens next. Once you leave this bubble, what else is out there? What should you know? Listen in as we address this and so much more.Recommended Resources:My Journey from Fundamentalism to JesusGospel: Recovering the Power that Made Christianity Revolutionary by J.D. Greear Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we count down the final days of this podcast, we welcome back Pastor Curtis King. Pastor King just recently released his latest devotional book, Living Water: Christ's Encounter With The Woman At The Well. We start off talking about some important background information about this passage and then wind up talking about being Christ-like in our presentation of the gospel.Recommended Resource:Living Water: Christ's Encounter With The Woman At The Well by Curtis King  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Well, its been awhile since I have posted anything so I thought I would give you an update as to what has been going on recently and the direction this podcast is going. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, voters in Ohio, Virginia, Kentucky, Michigan and Mississippi will be heading to the polls to vote. After having been inspired by a short video from my friend Dr. Don Woodard, I decided to just take a few minutes a share a few Biblical principles that I think Christians ought to consider when casting their ballots. This is all off the top of my head, but some helpful thoughts to ponder.Recommended Resources:Vote Biblically Life Relationships YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"People were going to the dentist and hearing the gospel." This week our guest is Dr. Jack Mitchell, a missionary with Gospel Fellowship Association. Dr. Mitchell's ministry takes him all over the world through doors not open to many others. Hear this remarkable testimony of how the Lord got a hold of his life and used him to take the gospel to the uttermost parts of the earth.Recommended Resources:Gospel Fellowship AssociationGod's Tooth Tales Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast we welcome an evangelist who had a great impact on my life, Bob Holmes. God has given Bob a unique and compelling platform to reach both Christians and non-Christians as a one-man, world record-setting volleyball player who travels across the U.S. and around the world playing exhibition volleyball games solo against teams of players, and speaking to diverse general audiences and groups including students, teachers, military veterans, prisoners at correctional facilities, the National Guard, fans at sporting events and more, often with the opportunity to share the Gospel message. Recommended Resources:Bob Holmes MinistryBook BobBeat Bob Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is it true that once you trade in the sports car for a minivan that you must also turn-in your man card as well? Well, Pastor Aaron White doesn't think so. This is a book for Christian fathers who are ready to step-up and shepherd their children as God commanded. This book is filled with practical advice and gospel-centered doctrine.Recommended Resource:Minivan Manhood: Shepherding Your Kids Toward Greater Joy In Jesus by J. Aaron White Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week features a workshop presentation I delivered last year at a local men's conference about how to develop a Christian worldview.Recommended Resources:Understanding the Times by David Nobel and Jeff MeyersThe Universe Next Door by James SireThe Consequence of Ideas by R.C. SproulHow Now Shall We Live by Charles Colson and Nancy PearceyTotal Truth by Nancy PearceyHow Should We Then Live? by Francis Schaeffer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of the podcast, Bible college student Daniel Leach drops by to give us an update on his life a studies. We focus much of the podcast on the importance of Biblical preaching and we make light of the fact that Daniel forgot to bring his Bible along.Recommended Resources:Dangerous Calling: Confronting the Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry by Paul David Tripp Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages by Haddon W. RobinsonThe Kind of Preaching God Blesses by Steven J. Lawson  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grab your popcorn because we are going to the movies! This week Pastor Chris Eldridge and I review the blockbuster movie, the Sound of Freedom. So listen in as we talk about the movie itself, the controversy sounding the movie and other related topics.Recommended Resources:The Sound of Freedom official websiteOperation Underground RailroadPornography and Human TraffickingThe Connection Between Sex Trafficking and Pornography Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome back author M.R. Scott to continue talking about his book, The Rain That Never Stops: And the Problem of Depression. In this episode we talk about several important principles to remember when struggling with depression.Recommended Resources:The Rain That Never Stops: And the Problem of Depression by M. R. Scott Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy Father's Day! While sitting in this hospital room, bored to tears, I suddenly remembered that quite some time ago I sat down with my friend Evangelist Dan Knickerbocker and recorded a Father's Day episode! So, join in as Brother Knickerbocker and I chat about his pamphlet written about his father, Which Generation Do You Represent? Recommended Resources:Which Generation do you Represent? by Dan KnickerbockerRevival Ministries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Basic Bible podcast is back! This week we are discussing the Rain that Never Stops by M.R. Scott. M.R. joins us for this chat - a chat so interesting we had to make it into two different episodes! So, join us we talk about the personal challenges of struggling with depression within a Christian community. Tune in next week for part 2.Recommended Resource:The Rain That Never Stops: And the Problem of Depression by M. R. Scott Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy Easter!!!! This week I was planning to upload an Easter message I recently preached, but unfortunately there was a problem with the recording. So, in its place, I have reached into the archives and pulled out a retro interview I conducted with Phil Johnson of Grace to You. It's been well over a decade since I recorded this, but I think it is still relevant today. So, join us this week as we talk about Fundamentalism, Evangelicalism and the emerging middle.Recommended Resources:Dead Right: The Failure of Fundamentalism by Phil Johnson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daniel Leach, Bible college student and one of my former students, is back on this podcast this week. Daniel shares a little bit about how God is working in his life and then encourages us to endure in the ministry God has given us despite the challenges that come along with that.Recommended Resources: Dangerous Calling: Confronting the Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry by Paul David TrippGentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers by Dane C. Ortlund  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You won't want to miss this week's episode of the podcast. We are welcoming back Doug Shaw of Forthright Ministries. The past summer, Doug joined his friend and Evangelist Jimmy Muskrat as they retraced the Trail of Tears that Native Americans were once forced to endure. Tune-in to hear not only a historical overview of our horrific past, but listen in as Doug tells share with us tales about how the gospel overcomes even the deepest of division.Recommended Resources:Forthright MinistriesJimmy Muskrat at Cherokee Removal Memorial Park Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How would you act in the presence of a king? How about the King of Kings? This week out guest is Pastor Hexon J. Maldonado, the author of the new book, In the King's Presence: How Christ’s Royal Majesty Enriches Corporate Worship. Often times worship is portrayed as merely a matter of personal preference but if were entering into the throne room of God, our preference really doesn't matter. What does the Bible say about weekly, corporate worship? Tune in and fine out!Recommended Resources:In the King's Presence: How Christ’s Royal Majesty Enriches Corporate Worship by Hexon J. Maldonado  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This we are excited to welcome back famed apologist Ray Comfort of Living Waters Ministry. Ray is here to promote his latest book, So Many Lions, So Few Daniels: Living Without Compromise in a World in Need of Truth. Listen in as Ray and I chat about evangelism in a world hostile to the true gospel.Recommended Resources:So Many Lions, So Few Daniels: Living Without Compromise in a World in Need of Truth by Ray ComfortOperation London Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us this week as we hear from an old friend of mine, Eric Quinlan. Eric is a missionary to the deaf in the Dominican Republic. So listen in as Eric shares his personal testimony and how the Lord led him to this particular but often over-looked mission field.Recommended Resources:InSign: A Basic Guide to Learning Dominican Sign Language by Eric Lee Quinlan and Juana E Gonzalez de Q. A Family Beneath the Cross by José R. Mallén MallaDon't Just Sign... Communicate!: A Student's Guide to the Deaf Experience by Michelle JayMaster ASL - Level One by Jason E. Zinza American Sign Language UniversityThe Quinlan Family Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's been awhile since we recording this edition of Reigning in Ray, but here we go! This week Ray and I tackle Christians about the Antichrist, the canon of Scripture, confronting false prophets and the most important question of all - cheese curds or nachos? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Depression is one of those things we don't like to talk about. As Christians, oftentimes depression is covered by fake smiles and cliché spiritual platitudes that we would like to think are true but merely serve to hide the shame we don't want anyone to know about. It is time to bring reality to the light. Man good Christian struggle with depression. This week our guest is Pastor Aaron Richert, the author of Depression in the Christian Life: Getting help up from people who have been down.Recommended Resources:Depression in the Christian Life: Getting help up from people who have been down by Aaron Richert Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're talking about a great new book, Belong: Loving Your Church by Reflecting Christ to One Another. To do so we welcome back its author, Barnabas Piper. What does it mean to not merely attend church, or even be a member of a church, but to actually feel a sense of belonging to God's church? Listen in as we discuss this and much more!Recommended Resources:Belong: Loving Your Church by Reflecting Christ to One Another by Barnabas Piper Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

First podcast of 2023! This week we explore the unknown and maybe even the uncomfortable. My old friend Shaun Tabatt talks to us about his book, Real Near Death Experience Stories. Is there anything to these tales or are they just made up or delusions? Shaun suggests that not only are they true but they do indeed give us great confidence in God's Word. Come and check it out!Recommended Resources:Real Near Death Experience Stories: True Accounts of Those Who Died and Experienced Immortality by Randy Kay and Shaun Tabatt  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This will be our final episode of 2022 as we look back at the last 12 months. So, tune in to hear the top ten Basic Bible Podcasts of 2022, the top 10 Basic Bible podcast related news stories of 2022 and finally, my favorite other podcasts of 2022. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Merry Christmas! Welcome to our Christmas episode - one I had a TON of fun recording. It's A Wonderful Life is by far my favorite Christmas movie. This year I was introduced to Pastor Greg Asimakoupoulos who is a huge fan and the author of the book, Finding God in It's A Wonderful Life. I was expecting a cheesy book but found a really encouraging a helpful devotional work that has God used in my life. If you've seen the movie, you will love the book. You can see the heart of a pastor in each page. It's divided into short, easy-to-read chapters complete with discussion questions at the end. You can use it for your own personal use or could easily be used with your small group. Download this episode today and then get the book!!!Recommended Resources:Finding God in It's a Wonderful Life by Greg Asimakoupoulos Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode picks up right where last week's episode left off - kind of... We welcome my former student Daniel Leach back on the podcast. After we recorded the message that was last's episode, we decided to record a little something on the way home from our lunch at Olive Garden. So, what follows is a little bit of a random conversation about evangelism.Recommended Resources:Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers by Dane C. Ortlund The Soul-Winner's Fire by John R. Rice  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome back one of my former students, Daniel Leach who is currently a Bible college student preparing to go into the ministry. In this episode we catch up a bit and see how the Lord is working in his life. Following that Daniel shares a quick devotional thought with us about keeping encouraged while serving the Lord.Recommended Resources:Experiencing the Presence of God: Teachings from the Book of Hebrews by A.W. Tozer To Seek and to Save: Winning and Building Committed Followers of Jesus Christ by Paul Chappell The Soul-Winner's Fire by John R. Rice Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Evangelist Scott Pauley joins us to chat about his latest book, The Lord was with Joseph - a practical look at the life of the Joseph in the closing chapters of Genesis. Recommended Resource:The Lord Was With Joseph: Learning to Live In the Presence of God… by Scott Pauley Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In less than one week we face the 2022 midterm elections. So, the week we tackle the question - should Christians vote and if so, how? Joining me to discuss this is my friend Dan Degner of Wisconsin Family Council. Recommended Resources:Kingdom Politics by Tony EvansIVoterGuideWisconsin Family Council Commit to VoteMy Vote Wisconsin Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our last two episodes we spoke about the tragedy of abortion. In this episode we look at just the opposite, adoption. One of the lies some in the pro-choice crowd try to foist upon us is that children given up due to unwanted pregnancies are handed over to the foster care system. This is simply not true. Open adoptions are available and give the mother great control over who will take care of their child. Joining us this week is John Knox of the Opt institute to talk about a recent Barna research report that shows many mothers do not understand the options available to them. You won't want to miss this episode!!!Recommended Resources:The Opt InstituteAdoption & Its Competitors: Results of a National Survey Regarding Adoption in the United States in 2022 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Ray Jewell and I follow-up on our experience last week at the Madison March for Life. Ray and I chat about the march itself and our thoughts on last week's interview with Dan Sande. I'll also air a few clips from some of the "interesting" protestors we came across. That will explain why we're changing our name to the Basic Baby Podcast where apparently we talk about dead babies... Recommended Resources:Abortion: A Rational Look at An Emotional Issue by R.C. Sproul  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast we welcome Dan Sande from Pro-Life Wisconsin. Over the weekend, Ray Jewell and I traveled up to Madison, WI to take part in the Wisconsin March for Life celebrating the end of Roe v. Wade. The march was organized by Pro-Life Wisconsin. Ray and I took a few minutes to chat with Dan Sande, who is the organization's legislative director and deputy state director. We talked about the march itself, Pro-Life Wisconsin's mission and the fight to abortion here in Wisconsin. Next you'll hear clips from the March as well as Ray and I's thoughts about the march and reflections on this week's interview.Recommended Resources:Pro-Life Wisconsin Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast we're chatting with Dave Deets about his new book, When Men Have Miscarriages. Here's a quick description, "It is estimated that nearly half of all pregnancies will end in miscarriage. This is devastating for the couple as they endure the loss of their unborn child. For men however, there is often a silent pain that is never expressed or acknowledged. The story that Dave shares of his family's journey through multiple miscarriages is meant to be an encouragement and help to the thousands of men who have dealt with the trauma of miscarriage in silence. This book is real, it is raw, and it is relevant. Dave's heart is that this book will bring a topic to the table that for years has needed to be discussed and will allow the conversation to move forward with grace."Recommended Resources:When Men Have Miscarriages: Finding hope amidst silent pain by Dave Deets  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast we welcome a new guest, Jennifer Schaefer. Jennifer is here to tell us about her book, I Know God, but Do I Know God? It is one thing to know things about God and even have a from belief in His existence, but have an actual relationship with God is a whole different story. So join us this week for a very practical conversation about truly knowing God.Recommended Resources:I Know God, but Do I Know God? by Jennifer Schaefer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are welcoming back author Dave Jenkins to the podcast to chat about his latest book, the Word Matters. A book on Biblical authority is much needed today as the church is lead by, it seems, anything other than Scripture. Trust me, after listening to this episode, you are going to want to buy this book right away. We only skip the surface here...Recommended Resources:The Word Matters: Defending Biblical Authority Against the Spirit of the Age by Dave Jenkins Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we continue right where we left off last week. Evangelist Ben Everson is back talking about corporate worship. In this episode we talk about such topics as what to do if you don't like the music in your church and how music prepares the heart for the sermon to follow. Recommended Resources:Bible Revival MinistriesJust My Forte with Ben EversonWe Need Revival: Biblical & Practical Observations by Ben Everson and Frank Garlock  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome back Evangelist Ben Everson to the podcast. This time we are chatting about corporate worship. When we sing to the Lord when come together each week, what are some principles to keep in mind? We talk about to what degree church music is to be considered a "performance" and allowing the Spirit to work even within a programmed schedule of music. What is the role of the worship leader and what is the role of the individual worshipper? These are just some of things we cover in this conversation. The conversation went so well, we had to break this up into two parts. As a special bonus, my son Tommy appears at the end of this podcast to talk about what he enjoys about Ben's music.Recommended Resources:Bible Revival MinistriesJust My Forte with Ben Everson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Christian life is filled with bumps and setbacks as we strive to draw closer to Christ. These times can seem discouraging and defeating, yet they are normal. We all find ourselves in that position from time to time. So, what do you when experiencing such a rut? This week Pastor Bryan Marvel of the Meadowbrook Church in Wauwatosa, WI. He will be talking about his book, Unstuck: Getting A Jump Start on Your Spiritual Growth.Recommended Resources:Unstuck: Getting A Jump Start on Your Spiritual Growth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week features another one of my favorite podcasters - Pastor Zach Bartels. In his latest podcasting endeavor, we see a new take on a Christian classic, the Pilgrim's Progress. In a reimagined format, Zach gives us cinematic music and effects all within the a serialized fiction podcast format. If you ever bored with Bunyan in the past, make sure to give this a try! So this week you'll learn all you need to know about another podcast you need to add to your playlist.Recommended Resources:The Pilgrim’s Progress PodcastOther Audio Resources from Zach Bartels Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I grew up within the Independent Fundamental Baptist movement - a movement founded upon defending the core doctrines of the Christian faith but now has become known more for legalism, isolationism, and oftentimes anti-intellectualism. Yet, we are seeing more and more people seeing the light of grace and walking away from this background. In the midst of this is the Recovering Fundamentalist Podcast that has been a blessing to many people who still cling to the faith but don't want the legalism of their past and see themselves thirsty for true Bible doctine. Joining us this week is one of the co-hosts of this podcast, Nathan Cravatt. I had a ton of fun chatting with Nathan so you won't want to miss this conversation!Recommended Resources:The Recovering Fundamentalist PodcastThe King James Bible DebateThe Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith by Timothy Keller The Discipline of Grace by Jerry Bridges  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us this week for the exciting conclusion of our series on what NOT to say to your pastor. Once again Pastor Ray Jewell is back as we continue to discuss a list of things real people really said to their pastors.Recommended Resource:One Sentence That Pastors and Church Staff Hate to Hear by Thom S. Rainer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever said something and then immediately wish you could take it back? Well, I'm hoping this episode is filled with people who regret these things they actually said to their pastor! Pastor Ray Jewell is back as we continue to discuss a list of things real people really said to their pastors. Recommended Resource:One Sentence That Pastors and Church Staff Hate to Hear by Thom S. Rainer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After an unexpected hiatus, the Basic Bible Podcast comes thundering back! This week we discuss the recent report detailing a shocking scandal within Southern Baptist Convention and the coverup of hundreds of cases of abuse by church leaders. Joining us is author, blogger and victim advocate Jennifer Michelle Greenberg.Recommended Resources:SBC Guidepost Report: Analyzing Recommendations to Prevent Abuse & Help Victims by Jennifer Michelle Greenberg Not Forsaken: A Story of Life After Abuse: How Faith Brought One Woman From Victim to Survivor by Jennifer Michelle Greenberg  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Film Maker, and former podcaster, Les Lanphere (Calvinist, Spirit and Truth) is back on the podcast to chat about his latest project, Cessationist. Here is the description:"On any given week, countless Christians gather and participate in strange practices they believe are true expressions of the power of God. From speaking in tongues to attempting to raise the dead, Charismatic Christians believe they are participating in modern miracles. But are these miracles real? Are the Apostolic sign gifts in operation today? Cessationist will lovingly and carefully answer this important question by exposing the errors and building a positive case for the real work of the Holy Spirit today. The real gift of the Spirit is far more necessary and powerful than many imagine."Please consider stopping by the Kickstarter page to learn how you can help this project get started.Recommended Resource:Cessationist Kickstarter Page Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here is part 2 of our series about what NOT to say to your pastor. Ray Jewell and I continue our way through a list of things that have actually been said to real pastors. Some, may have meant well, but it certainly didn't come out that way. Recommended Resource:One Sentence That Pastors and Church Staff Hate to Hear by Thom S. Rainer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever wondered how tell your pastor how much you appreciate him? Well, here are a few things NOT to say! For the next few weeks Pastor Ray Jewell and I (congrats, Ray!) go through a list of things that have actually been said to real pastors. Some, may have meant well, but it certainly didn't come out that way. So tune and learn just a little bit about to treat the pastor in your life.Recommended Resource:One Sentence That Pastors and Church Staff Hate to Hear by Thom S. Rainer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For many Christians, the King James Version of the Bible is only acceptable translation for English speaking people. But, is that what the translators themselves thought or even wanted others to think? Taken out of many modern KJV Bibles is the original preface written by those very translators. Thankfully Joshua Barzon has taken the time to share this preface with us and explore the thoughts and the intents of what was then a new controversial translation. In his just-released book, the Forgotten Preface, Joshua shares with us a forgotten piece of the puzzle many did not know even existed. He joins us this week on a podcast you won't want to miss!Recommended Resources:The Forgotten Preface: Surprising Insights on the Translation Philosophy of the King James Translators by Joshua BarzonThe Forgotten Preface Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pastor and author Kevin Horath is back! Last week we briefly touched on what is was like to be an assistant pastor. This week we've dedicated an entire episode to it! Both Kevin's on this podcast have experience in this role so you know this will be an interesting conversation you won't want to miss out on!Recommended Resources:The Elisha Factor: Living the Double-Portion Life by Kevin P. Horath Riding in the Second Chariot : A Guide for Associate Ministers by Rev. K. Edward Copeland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week I get to introduce to a great new author, Kevin P. Horath. Kevin has written a series of devotional books starting with the Elisha Factor and most recently, The Donkey Factor: Living a Life Used by God. He has even dabbled into children's books as well (which my own kids have read). So, this week, we'll focus more about the Donkey Factor, which explores an often underestimated animal and how it leads us to Scriptural encouragement to serve Christ.Recommended Resources:The Elisha Factor: Living the Double-Portion Life by Kevin HorathThe Pharaoh Factor: Living with a Hardened Heart by Kevin HorathThe Donkey Factor: Living a Life Used by God by Kevin HorathDaniel and the Donkey Factor by Kevin HorathThe Factor Books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since last week's conversation went so well that we didn't actually cover anything we actually planned to discuss, this week we present to you Christian Entrepreneurship part 2. We welcome back Dayton Bennett of Dabadooya and Company to the podcast. So, what are you waiting for? Download this ep right away!Recommended Resources:The Motivation Manifesto: 9 Declarations to Claim Your Personal Power by Brendon Burchard You Are a Badass at Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth by Jen Sincero Business Model Generation: A Handbook for Visionaries, Game Changers, and Challengers by Alexander Osterwalder The Richest Man In Babylon by George S. Clason  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are back! This week we welcome back my friend, Dayton Bennett. Dayton is here to kick around a topic we've been talking about doing for some time, what does it look like to be a Christian entrepreneur? If there is anyone who can intelligently talk about this, it is Dayton. Our conversation is lively, interesting and borders on sarcastic - yet we bring up some serious issues such as discerning God's Will. Recommended Resources:Dabadooya and CompanyJust Do Something: A Liberating Approach to Finding God's Will by Kevin DeYoung  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are back on location at the Overflowing Cup, a Christian coffee house in Beloit, WI. Dave and Diana Fogderud return to pick up the conversation right where we left off last week.Recommended Resources:The Overflowing Cup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are on location! I recorded this interview at the Overflowing Cup, a Christian coffee house (and more) in Beloit, WI. it is an incredible ministry that reaches out to those many churches have left behind. Join us as we welcome Dave and Diana Fogderud to talk about their testimonies and how God has used them. It was so good, we had to make it into a two part episode. Recommended Resources:The Overflowing Cup Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've made it to episode 200!!!! What better way to celebrate than to talk about the importance of the local church with the one and only Josh Lofthus! Josh is a fellow podcast host with a great passion and heart for the church. Also tune in for added bonuses like a fish taco recipe, complaints about the Green Bay Packers and a few thoughts about Netflix...Recommended Resources:Nine Marks of a Healthy Church (3rd Edition) (9Marks) by Mark Dever The Reformatory PodcastKluck Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome Paul Cox of Reftoons back to the podcast. Paul is here to talk about one of his latest projects, the Illustrated Baptist Catechism. This is a great resource that takes Benjamin Keach's classic work and adds Paul's touch of cartoonish brilliance. I love this book and use it with my own family. So listen in as we discuss all the work that went into this and about the use of catechisms in general.Recommended Resources:The Illustrated Baptist Catechism by Paul CoxReftoons Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome Jeff Wagner to the podcast. Jeff is here to tell us about an exciting new resources he's created to help people get into the Word of God. It's not a crossword puzzle and its not a word search puzzle, but a CrossSearch puzzle - you'll have to listen in to find out more. Its fun activity for the entire family!Recommended Resources:CrossSearch Puzzles: A Trip Through the Bible - Book by Book by Jeff WagnerThey Played Baseball for the Red Sox?: A History of Forgotten BoSoxers by Jeff Wagner They Played Baseball for the Yankees?: A History of Forgotten Bronx Bombers by Jeff WagnerPug Shots Kindle by Jeff Wagner  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are discussing a topic I'd rather not discuss, but certainly is an important one that needs more exposure and light. While the church ought to be a place of healing, edification and encouragement not all churches provide an environment where that can happen. More and more we see victims coming forward exposing a dark underbelly of the church that we would like to believe doesn't exist. The truth is there are toxic church environments where abuse and cover-ups abound. As Christians, we believe judgment starts with God's people in God's house. Our guest is victim advocate Michie DeBerry who tells us about his experience and what warn signs you should be looking for.Recommended Resources:GRACE: Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Environment Behind-the-Scenes at Reformers Unanimous & North Love Baptist Church Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome back Pastor Aaron White to the podcast. Aaron has dropped by once again to talk about his latest book, Seeing the Savior: A Devotional Introduction to Biblical Theology. Maybe you've heard that Jesus is on every page of Scripture, but have you ever wondered about seeing him in some of the difficult or strange passages in the Old Testament? Is He really in all of Scripture? The answer is yes and Pastor White does a great job in making that clear in this easy-to-read devotional. Listen in for this and much more...Recommended Resources:Seeing the Savior: A Devotional Introduction to Biblical Theology by J. Aaron WhitePaul's Helpful Letter: A Kid-Friendly Journey Through First Corinthians by J. Aaron WhiteJesus on Every Page: 10 Simple Ways to Seek and Find Christ in the Old Testament by David Murray  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the first episode of 2022! To usher in the new year I've invited back my friend and former student Daniel Leach. Daniel is a sophomore at Heartland Baptist Bible College. In this episode Daniel shares what the Lord is doing in his life and then gives us a challenge from Luke 5.Recommended Resources:America In Crimson Red: The Baptist History Of America by James R. Beller  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here it is, the last episode of 2021! But, before we move on 2022, I want to share one final thought from the Christmas season. Maybe, its a thought you've never considered before. So, listen in and here about what I consider to be the missing part of the Christmas season,Resources:The Gospel Is for the Broken by Rod RosenbladtThe Holiness of God by R. C. Sproul  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Merry Christmas! We actually recorded this holiday episode in a hospital room as I was recovering from surgery. So, you'll hear a few special guests as nurses come in and out of the room. But, listen in as Ray and I chat about all things Christmas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome back to the podcast Pastor Don Woodard, author of the new book "Life's About Relationships." I doubt there are few people who have a genuine love for people that Don Woodard. So, if there is anyone qualified to write a book about relationship, it is my friend. It was also my honor to write the forward to this book. So, you won't want to miss this great conversation! Recommended Resources:Life's About Relationships: A Foundation for Good Relationships by Dr. Don Woodard Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week I learned of the passing of one of God's servants, Pastor Ken Hereford. He attended Bible college at Maranatha Baptist Bible University where he received a degree in Theological Studies after which he launched into church planting here in the stateline area of Illinois and Wisconsin. One of these churches, Grace & Truth Church, actually met in my classroom in its early days. It was my pleasure to teach four of his children and invite him to speak in my chapel service several times. Ken had not only a love for Christ but a passion for the gospel and desire to see the Scripture properly taught. So, I can think of no better way to honor him that to air one of his messages this week. This message was preached at one of our National Day of Prayer services. You won't want to miss this episode! If you have ever been concerned that people hear and spread the true gospel and not one of its many counterfeits, this message is for you.Recommended Resources:The Gospel According to Jesus: What Is Authentic Faith? by John F. MacArthur Kenneth Cornell Hereford's Obituary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ok, so this episode is a little late due to an unexpected stay in the hospital But, here we are at last celebrating pastor appreciation month. So, basically, I shoved a microphone in front of several confused pastors and asked them each, "When, as a pastor, do you feel most appreciated?" My prayer is that through this episode you will not only gain a better appreciation for your pastor, but learn how to express that appreciation in a meaningful way.Recommended Resources:For God's Sake, Rest! by James L. AndersonDidn't See It Coming: Overcoming the Seven Greatest Challenges That No One Expects and Everyone Experiences by Carey Nieuwhof The Care of Souls: Cultivating a Pastor's Heart by Harold L. Senkbeil Church Elders: How to Shepherd God's People Like Jesus by Jeramie Rinne  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's podcast features one of my favorite authors and podcasters, Ted Kluck. You can hear Ted on the Happy Rant and Gut Check podcasts or drop by his classroom at Union University in Tennessee. Last year he was gracious enough to zoom into my classroom for a virtual chapel interview. We are talking about one of Ted's favorite topics - sports. Here not only his sage advice, but you can hear about my run-in with NFL superstar Tom Brady and my short career as an assistant soccer coach.Recommended Resources:The Extraordinary Life of a Mediocre Jock: God, I’ll Do Anything – Just Make Me Awesome by Ted Kluck The Reason For Sports: A Christian Fanifesto by Ted Kluck The Bride(zilla) of Christ: What to Do When God's People Hurt God's People by Ted Kluck and Ronnie MartinA Hard Thing on a Beautiful Day: and Other Essays by Ted KluckHello, I Love You: Adventures in Adoptive Fatherhood by Ted KluckFacing Tyson: Fifteen Fighters, Fifteen Stories by Ted Kluck  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Legalism is something every Christian must fight against. We all have the urge a time to measure our faith (or the faith of others) but some outside, extra-Biblical standard. In hopes of solidifying our faith, legalism only drives us away from Christ leads to depend on our own strength and virtue. This week's podcast features a clip from a sermon preached by one of my favorite preachers, Bob Bixby of Redeemer Church in Freemont, CA. Pastor Bob was once my pastor and still continues to be a mentor and friend. I think you will find this extremely helpful in your fight against the spiritually deadly inclination.Recommended Resources:The Grace Awakening: Believing in Grace Is One Thing. Living it Is Another by Charles R. Swindoll The Whole Christ: Legalism, Antinomianism, and Gospel Assurance―Why the Marrow Controversy Still Matters by Sinclair B. Ferguson Jesus + Nothing = Everything by Tullian Tchividjian  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You hear that knock on the door and you know its not a salesman. Two well dressed men with pamphlets and Bibles are trying to talk to you about your soul. Yet, far from preaching the truth, these men are spreading the deceitful lies of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. Are you ready for this encounter with Jehovah's Witnesses? Joining us once again on the podcast is fellow podcaster and author Daniel Mynyk. In his latest book, Daniel and his brother John detail their doorway encounter and give you some tips about how to not only defend the truth, but to spread it.Recommended Resources:When the Watchtower Knocks: Discussing an Encounter with Jehovah's Witnesses by Daniel and John MynykThe Truth Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week our guest is fellow PCC grad and podcaster Daniel Mynyk. He will be discussing his extensive book on tithing, Freedom To Give (The Biblical Truth About Tithing). You might be surprised at what the Bible actually says about. Whenever Christians start talking about money, you know its going to stir the pot. You won't want to miss this episode!Recommended Resources:Freedom To Give (The Biblical Truth About Tithing) by Daniel MynykThe Truth Hub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the Reining in Ray show where we answer your questions! This time around we are tackling such issues as orphan care, government relief, starting new ministries and how to minister to people in a pandemic. Oh ya, and we also get into debate about Aaron Rogers and Tom Brady (the GOAT). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy Labor Day! This is a special episode as we welcome Daniel Leach, one of my former students., to the podcast. Daniel is a student studying at Heartland Baptist Bible College. Daniel has a heart for the Lord and a mind to serve others. This week I'll ask him to tell us a little bit about himself and then stick around to give a short devotional the Lord laid upon his heart.Recommended Resources:Knowing God by J. I. PackerThe Discipline of Prayer by Dr. Dennis Corle  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it mean to abide in Christ? As Christians we certainly acknowledge the existence of God, but it is another thing entire to live in the presence of that God we know exists. Join us this week as we open up John 15 with Christian counselor Scott Lownsdale and discuss this very topic.Recommended Resources:Desiring God, Revised Edition: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist by John PiperThe Pleasures of God: Meditations on God's Delight in Being God by John PiperThe Practice of the Presence of God and The Spiritual Maxims by by Brother Lawrence Dr. Scott's Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome back Evangelist Scott Pauley as we chat about his book, The Need of Our Nation. Don't worry, we're not talking about a political agenda or any sort of Christian nationalism. Instead, Brother Pauley focuses on the spiritual revival we in God's house need so much.Recommended Resources:The Need of Our Nation by Scott PauleyEnjoying the JourneyDeep Dive with Evangelist Scott Pauley Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Everyone needs hope. We all cling to some sort of hope. But, as believers, what is our ultimate hope? Where can we turn for hope? The Scripture offers us not merely an optimistic feeling based on good intentions, but a solid confidence found in the gospel. In his book, A Hope Filled Life, Pastor James R. Wilkes seeks to give a theology of hope grounded in the Word of God. You won't want to miss this episode. Not only is this author a great pastor, but he was my pastor for many years growing up. Very few people have invested their life into mine like he has. Recommended Resources:A Hope-Filled Life: The Significance of Hope in the Life of the Believer by James R. WilkesThe Glory Walk: Living on Purpose for the Glory of God by James R. Wilkes The Grace Today Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week Evangelist Tom Farrell went to be with the Lord at the age of 69 after suffering from a brain tumor. I have found memories of hearing Dr. Farrell preach at the Wilds Christian camp several times when I was a teenager. He preached with passion and loved the Word. This week I'll share my greatest memory of him, this interview I conducted with him at the Wilds about 25 years ago. This also has the distinction of being the very first interview I ever recorded with anyone! I was only a teen but he gave me some time to sit down with him. So, this week's podcast features an interview with Tom Farrell that gives us a little insight on his personal background and gives a glimpse inside the mind of me as a teenager!Recommended Resources:Preaching That Pleases God: The Keys To Life-Changing Bible Exposition by Tom FarrellTom Farrell Evangelistic Ministries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Once again we're tackling your questions on another episode of Reining in Ray. This week we are tackling such issues as Bible interpretation, the current trend of Evangelicals deconstructing their faith, denominational differences and the all important question of appropriate pizza toppings. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We have finally come to the end of our series on the five points of Calvinism. Last week, Ray Jewell gave his rebuttal to Calvinism while I TRIED to hold my tongue. This week there is no chance of that happening. This week, Ray and I rumble. We are having it out. The last time this happened, Ray outsmarted me for sure. This time, the gloves are off and I am ready to go. Who will win? Listen and decide for yourself.Recommended Resources:For Calvinism by Michael HortonAgainst Calvinism: Rescuing God's Reputation from Radical Reformed Theology by Roger E. OlsonSurprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church by N. T. Wright  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are nearing the end of our series on the Five Points of Calvinism. But, we couldn't end this series without hearing from our favorite Arminian, Ray Jewell. Ray has been waiting patiently but has been waiting for this very moment. So, listen in to Ray's rebuttal for the past several episodes.Recommended Resources:The Works of John Cassian by John CassianWhy I Am Not a Calvinist by Jerry L. Walls, Joseph R. Dongell Why I Am Not an Arminian by Robert A. Peterson, Michael D. Williams  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back as we continue to weave our way through the Five Points of Calvinism. This week will be part two of the panel discussion we started on the last episode. We have each of the panelists back and one additional late comer, Pastor Aaron White. So, don't miss the exciting conclusion!Recommended Resources:For Calvinism by Michael HortonChosen by God by R. C. SproulBondage of the Will by Martin Luther Why I Am Not a Calvinist by Jerry L. Walls, Joseph R. Dongell Why I Am Not an Arminian by Robert A. Peterson, Michael D. Williams Can You Lose Your Salvation?Why are some saved, and not others?Predestined to Make a Decision not for the RaptureFive Views of Predestination/Election | The Lutheran ViewThe Doctrine of Election Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back in our series on Calvinism, but this week the gloves come off. For the next two weeks we'll be airing a panel discussion that took place in my systematic theology class (via zoom). This panel features four different perspectives. Here for the discussion are our own Ray Jewell, Gary Zimmerman of Rockford Lutheran School and Scott Whiting, pastor of the Compass Church in Janesville, WI. Recommended Resources:Five Points: Towards a Deeper Experience of God’s Grace by John Piper Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the interview I've been looking forward to post. Jesus and John Wayne by Kristin Kobes Du Mez is convicting and fascinating history of the modern evangelical movement. While I don't agree with every conclusion she draws, the book is well worth your time. There are lessons on patriarchy, abuse and the mishandling of Scripture that should give us much to think about and even act upon. Kristen was very kind to give us a few minutes of her time on what was an incredibly busy day for her as the paperback of this book launched on the very day of our interview.Recommended Resources:Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation by Kristin Kobes Du Mez Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's another Reining in Ray - where the listeners take control of the podcast a we field your questions. This time we're talking about Ray's new position with the Beloit Janesville Symphony Orchestra, missing books of the Bible, the mistreatment of women, disagreements and our friends at the Reformatory Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Its that time of year again, graduation! Across the country students are recovering from a tough year of covid restrictions and now find themselves staring into an uncertain future. This week we are airing a message from Pastor Michael T. Powers (Youth Pastor at Faith Community Church in Janesville, WI) delivered at the 2021 Rock County Christian School graduation service, Michael's messages are always Biblical, powerful and challenging. Recommended Resources:Heart Touchers: Life-Changing Stories of Faith, Love, and Laughter by Michael T. Powers HeartTouchers.com Author Michael T. Powers YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our first ever cross-over episode. As we continue along in our series on the Five Points of Calvinism, I thought I would air an episode of another podcast - featuring an interview with me. Two of my more industrious and theology-minded students asked me to appear on their podcast to talk about my views on this topic. So, be sure to check out their podcast by following the link in the recommended resources.Recommended Resources:The ChamCastFive Points: Towards a Deeper Experience of God’s Grace by John PiperChosen by God by R. C. Sproul  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back in our series on the Five Points of Calvinism. This week we're in point five - Perseverance of the Saints. Is it "once saved, always saved" or is there more to this idea? In light of all these deconversion stories, is it possible for a true follower of the Lord to walk away from their faith? Joining me to discuss this issue are some of my brothers from Faith Community Church, Jesse Knopp and Daytoven Raleigh. Its a great conversation you won't want to miss. Recommended Resources:Five Points: Towards a Deeper Experience of God’s Grace by John PiperThe Doctrines of Grace: Rediscovering the Evangelical Gospel by James Montgomery Boice  and Philip Graham RykenThe Unsaved Christian: Reaching Cultural Christianity with the Gospel by Dean InserraRun to Win the Prize: Perseverance in the New Testament by Thomas R. Schreiner The Five Points of Calvinism: A Study Guide by Edwin H. Palmer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's Reining in Ray where you, the listener, determine what we chat about. This episode features your questions about baptism, Biblical interpretation, Satan and, like always, food. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we continue on our merry way through the doctrines of TULIP, we welcome back to the podcast, Pastor Aaron White (Redeemer Bible Church). Aaron joins us to talk about Irresistible Grace. Can man ever reject the plan of God? Is this a violation of man's free will? Listen in and find out!Recommended Resources:Five Points: Towards a Deeper Experience of God’s Grace by John PiperChosen by God by R. C. Sproul The Potter's Freedom: A Defense of the Reformation and the Rebuttal of Norman Geisler's Chosen But Free by James R. WhiteThe Five Points of Calvinism: A Study Guide by Edwin H. PalmerLiving for God's Glory: An Introduction to Calvinism by Joel R. Beeke Man Up, Kneel Down: Shepherding Your Wife Toward Greater Joy In Jesus by J. Aaron White Paul's Big Letter: A Kid-Friendly Journey through the Book of Romans by J. Aaron WhiteThe Gospel of Our Grandfathers: Preserving the Good News for Future Generations by J. A. White Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we continue our series on the five points of Calvinism. In this episode, we jump right into the most controversial point - Limited Atonement. Did Christ die for all people? Answering this question is Josh Niemi of Expository Parenting and author of the book - Greater Than Aaron: The Supremacy of Christ's Limited Atonement.Recommended Resources:Greater Than Aaron: The Supremacy of Christ's Limited Atonement by Josh NiemiExpository Parenting Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He is Risen! Welcome to our Easter edition of the podcast. In light of Easter, Ray and I are sharing this message from famed apologist Lee Strobel in which he lays out four evidences of the resurrection of Christ and how that changed everything for him (and us). Recommended Resources:The Case for Christ: A Journalist's Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus by Lee Strobel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are back to our series on the five points of Calvinsim. This week we welcome back to the podcast Les Lanphere the founder of the Reformed Pub and director of the documentary Calvinist. Les and I are discussing the U of Tulip, Unconditional Election. While this past election may have some bad memories, the doctrine of election should give us confidence in Christ. Just a quick note, this interview was recorded a little while ago, before Les's latest documentary was available. It now is and you should follow the link below to purchase it!Recommended Resources:Calvinist by Les LanphereSpirit and Truth by Les LanphereChosen by God by R. C. Sproul The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination by Loraine Boettner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One more quick interruption to our series on Calvinism... This week we're welcoming Josh Teis back to podcast as we chat his book, The Quest for Friendship. The book debuts tomorrow, so you will want to listen to this sneak preview. As an adult, how many friends do you actually have? Outside of your spouse, how many people do you have a genuine, meaningful relationship with? Join us as Josh tells us about the need for friendship and even how to begin to cultivate these relationships in our lives. Recommended Resources:The Quest for Friendship by Josh TeisThe Idea NetworkJosh on Twitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're taking a break from our series on Calvinism to talk about a great new book that is coming out today - The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy & What to Do about It. Dave Jenkins, of Servants of Grace, is our guest as we chat about the problem of Biblical illiteracy and what we can do about it. So, go ahead and download the podcast then buy the book!Recommended Resources:The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy & What to Do about It by Dave Jenkins Servants of Grace Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are in week two discussing the five point of Calvinism. This episode features an interview with Tom Buck, the pastor of the First Baptist Church of Lindale, Texas. What does it mean to be total depraved and how does square with the idea that we all have a little bit of goodness within us? You won't want to miss this episode!Recommended Resources:The Bondage of the Will by Martin LutherFreedom of the Will: Human Free Will Examined Through Bible Theology, the Life of Jesus, and the Divine Nature of God by Jonathan EdwardsFive Points: Towards a Deeper Experience of God’s Grace by John PiperPastor Tom Buck on Twitter Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we begin our long awaited-for series on the five points of Calvinism. Before we explore each of the points themselves, Dr. Brian L Hanson joins the podcast once again to give us a historical perspective on this controversial topic. Brian is the assistant professor of history and theology at Bethlehem College & Seminary in Minneapolis and an elder at Bethlehem Baptist Church. It's an interesting discussion so put on your thinking caps and get to take notes!Recommended Resources:The Institutes of the Christian Religion by John CalvinThe Confessions of Saint Augustine by Saint Augustine Four Views on Divine Providence (Counterpoints: Bible and Theology) edited by Dennis Jowers Calvin by F. Bruce GordonWaiting on the Spirit of Promise: The Life and Theology of Suffering of Abraham Cheare by Brian L. Hanson Reformation of the Commonwealth: Thomas Becon and the Politics of Evangelical Change in Tudor England by Brian L Hanson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are welcoming Pastor Logan Schwandt on to the podcast. Logan is the Associate Pastor at Faith Community Church (Stateline campus) in South Beloit, IL. Listen in as we chat about his testimony, ministry and his new podcast - The Brok3n Podcast.Recommended Resources:The Brok3n PodcastThe Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? by Rick Warren Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What better way to discuss love on this day after Valentines that to discuss the account of a "great lover"? Of course that's not how we typically think of Charles Haddon Spurgeon. In Yours Till Heaven, Ray Rhodes details the love affair of Charles and Susie Spurgeon. This is a side of the Prince of Preachers you have not seen before. In an age where popular preachers make headlines for failing in their marriage, you won't want to miss the account of a couple in ministry that got it right. So, this week we welcome Ray Rhodes back to the podcast to chat about his latest book.Recommended Resource:Yours, Till Heaven: The Untold Love Story of Charles and Susie Spurgeon by Ray Rhodes JrSusie: The Life and Legacy of Susannah Spurgeon, wife of Charles H. Spurgeon by Ray Rhodes Jr.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode we're discussing the Judges of Israel by Pastor Curtis King. The book of Judges is filled with great stories but Pastor King us able to apply these stories in a meaningful to show us that God can use anyone. These accounts were not given to us for mere entertainment but display the mighty power of God. So open up your Bible, listen to our discussion and then go get this book!Recommended Resources:The Judges of Israel: God Can Use Anyone by Curtis KingThe Curtis King Author Facebook PageThe Bible Burrito Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast we're talking about children's ministries. Our guest is my friend and co-worker Dayton Bennett. As my kids have sat under his ministry, I can personally testify of Dayton's heart and competency in this field. This turned out to be both a fun and substantive conversation. If you've got kids in church or volunteer with youth - you won't want to miss this episode!Recommended Resources:Children's Ministry in the Way of Jesus by David M. Csinos and Ivy BeckwithThe Fabulous Reinvention of Sunday School: Transformational Techniques for Reaching and Teaching Kids by Aaron Reynolds Group's Emergency Response Handbook for Children's Ministry by Group PublishingGroup's Emergency Response Handbook for Parents by Group PublishingThriving Youth Groups: Secrets for Growing Your by Jeanne MayoThe Volunteer Code: How to Recruit and Care for Volunteers by Ryan Frank Pulse Volume 2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week many of us watched the inauguration of our new President, Joe Biden. For some reason, President Biden did not invite me to speak at this event. I'm assuming it was an oversight of some kind... If I had been invited to speak, this is what I would have said.Recommended Resources:A Prayer for the Presidential Inauguration by David PlattA Prayer for This Day of Transition and Inauguration by Scotty Smith Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's episode was really special to me as it allowed me to connect with an old college friend, Evangelist Jody Jenkins. Jody has been in ministry for decades now and has collected a wealth of experience having served as both an evangelist and a pastor. He is a skilled preacher with a passion for helping others. Listen in this week as Jody talks to us about his latest venture, HOPE Ministries. You won't want to miss this one, I promise!Recommended Resources:HOPE Ministries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What better way to ring in the new year with a Reining in Ray edition of the podcast! These episodes feature questions from our listeners. This time we're tackling questions about how to interpret certain parts of Scripture, who wrote the book of Hebrews, unintentionally harming others and how the church can grow in unity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've come to the end of quite the interesting year. In this last episode of 2020, Ray and I look back at lessons the Lord has taught us. It wasn't all bad and we praise the Lord for his continuing faithfulness. Recommended Resources::Systematic Theology, Second Edition: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine by Wayne A. Grudem The Faithfulness of Jesus the Messiah: A Gospel Emphasis by Walter D. Zorn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special episode Santa Clause (aka Ray Jewell) and I make some exegetical observations from Luke 2, a classic Christmas passage. So listen in and hear about how a few shepherds stumble upon an epic clash of kingdoms all centering on a little baby.Recommended Resources:Lectures on Calvinism: Six Lectures from the Stone Foundation Lectures Delivered at Princeton University by Abraham Kuyper The Explicit Gospel by Matt Chandler Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're talking about another new book release for children, Paul's Big Letter. This book, written by our old friend Pastor Aaron White, takes the book of Romans and cuts it down into bit-sized, but still meaty portions for all to enjoy. Aaron doesn't shy away from weighty subjects like justification and election, but tackles these subjects in such a way that introduces these subjects for all ages. As a special bonus, Paul Cox from RefToons is here as well talking about the illustrations he contributed to the book. You won't want to miss this episode!Recommended Resources:Paul's Big Letter: A Kid-Friendly Journey through the Book of Romans by J. Aaron WhiteRefToons Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we celebrate the Advent season by discussing the Best Gift Ever Given with its author, Ronnie Martin. This is a great book for the whole family that walks through the Scripture beginning in Genesis and ending with God's greatest gift to mankind. We also ambush our guest with a few questions from our friends at the Gut Check Podcast.Recommended Resources:The Best Gift Ever Given: A 25-Day Journey Through Advent from God's Good Gifts to God's Great Son by Ronnie Martin Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us this week for a Thanksgiving family special. In this super short edition, I am joined by three of my four children as I give a few short reminders from Scripture to ponder this Thanksgiving holiday. The kids add a few "extra" comments of their own... In terms of recommended resources, I threw in one children's book we have used in our family.Recommended Resources:Pete the Cat: The First Thanksgiving by James Dean  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here's another Reining in Ray where we answer your questions. This week we're covering such topics as what makes humans different from animals, single issue voting and a question about the human anatomy. Share this with your friends! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is happiness? Is it obtainable in this day and age? As Christians, should we even seek for happiness? This week Ray and I ask the questions to the one and only Barnabas Piper, the author of the new book, Hoping for Happiness. We've been hyping up this book for the past few weeks so you won't want to miss this one!Recommended Resources:Hoping for Happiness by Barnabas Piper Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us for this special edition - recorded just about one week away from the 2020 election. My friend Evangelist Dan Knickerbocker and I sat down for a fun conversation about getting out the vote within our churches. We talk about the importance of voting even if it seems like it won't do much good in your area, how this impacts our witness for Christ and even how guys like us can get along when we disagree about who to vote for in what could prove to be the most important election in our lifetime. Recommended Resources:Faith Wins – Engaging Christians in the Public ArenaRevival Ministries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're once again celebrating pastor appreciation month. We are welcoming back Pastor Allen Nelson to the podcast. Pastor Nelson and I chat about the role of a pastor and take a look behind the scenes to gain a better appreciation for what the book of Ephesians calls a gift to the church.Recommended Resources:From Death to Life: How Salvation Works by Allen S. Nelson IVBefore the Throne: Reflections on God's Holiness by Allen S. Nelson IV  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we find ourselves in the midst of pastoral appreciation month. So, with that in mind, in this episode Ray and I discuss an article by Paul David Tripp, 5 Stumbling Blocks to Pastoral Honesty. We made this discussion for both pastor and church member alike. Recommended Resources:5 Stumbling Blocks to Pastoral Honesty by Paul David TrippLead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church by Paul David Tripp Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's Reining in Ray so that means we're answering your questions! This time we're recording in auditorium of Faith Community Church in Janesville, WI. This was more of a spur of the moment type of thing but our listeners did not disappoint! Several people got back to us immediately as we were recording. In the middle of our recording, our mutual friend and podcast listener Jesse Knopp dropped by so we grilled him for a little while. So, we're talking testimonies, plans for the future, Tom Brady, and Subway sandwiches. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ray and I took a quick trip up to Madison, WI to hear Jo Jorgensen, the 2020 Libertarian Party Presidential candidate. We did get a little mixed up on the time of the event, but the trip did inspire us to record this episode on this topic of faith in politics on the ride home. In light of this election, you might be interested to hear our thoughts on the topic. At the end of the program you'll hear an exclusive - Dr. Jorgensen answers one of my questions! You won't want to miss that!Recommended Resources:How Do Christians Fit Into the Two-Party System? They Don’t by Timothy KellerGod in Public: How the Bible speaks truth to power today by Tom Wright  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen in this week as welcome Rick Amburgey to the podcast to talk about his book, Searching For Calmer Waters: My Battle With Anxiety. Hear the tale of how through a series of cruises though the Caribbean Richard began to address and manage his struggle with anxiety. He hopes that this book will not only be a blessing to those who have similar struggles but will also help others understand that the battle is real. Recommended Resources:Searching For Calmer Waters: My Battle With Anxiety by Rick Amburgey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week features an interesting conversation with my friend and fellow church-goer - Rob Rozsa. Rob shares his testimony and then we get into topics such as what ministry looks like after vocational ministry, discipleship, family and reaching the next generation. Recommended Resources:Letters to the Church by Francis Chan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I have known Joe Marshall since I was a child as we grew up together, attending the same high school and college. Since those days, the Lord has led Joe to the missions field in Australia. He currently pastors the New Beginnings Baptist Church in North Brisbane. Listen in as we talk about his existing ministry there. You will be thrilled to see hear about the Lord at work.Recommended Resources:Leading on Empty: Refilling Your Tank and Renewing Your Passion by by Wayne CordeiroSeven Practices of Effective Ministry by Andy StanleyThe New Beginnings Baptist Church Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of Reining in Ray we continue answering your questions! This month features questions concerning racism, food and mental health. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we are featuring another just-released book, Man Up, Kneel Down: Shepherding Your Wife Toward Greater Joy In Jesus. Our guest is the author, Pastor Aaron White. Pastor White is a frequent guest on our podcast and we are excited to have him back once again. The book "is a street-level, biblically saturated, gospel-centered guide for guys who want to lead their families well by serving their wives. With accessible chapters, humor, application questions, and more, Man Up Kneel Down offers the Christian husband a guide to shepherd his wife with intentionality amidst the demands of life."Recommended Resources:Man Up, Kneel Down: Shepherding Your Wife Toward Greater Joy In Jesus by J. Aaron White Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we take a little departure from our normal type of program. I recently had the opportunity to interview Don Reid of the Statler Brothers music group. I must admit, I went all-out fanboy on this one. I've been listening to the Statlers ever since I can remember. We're specifically talking about Don's new book - The Music of The Statler Brothers: An Anthology. Yet, we also talk about their faith and even get into the connection between Southern Gospel music and Country Western. And, we do chat a little bit about total depravity... You WONT want to miss this podcast!Recommended Resources:The Music of The Statler Brothers: An Anthology by Don ReidThe Statler Brothers WebsiteDon Reid's Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week's episode is ripped straight from the latest headlines. The question about whether or not to require face masks is dividing many churches. One side says that if you are not wearing one you are not loving your neighbor and putting the most vulnerable at risk. The other side contends that wearing a mask is evidence that you are living in fear and not trusting in Christ. Who is right? Or, is there another option? Listen in as Ray Jewell and I tackle this controversial topic.Recommended Resources:Republocrat: Confessions of a Liberal Conservative by Carl R. TruemanHow the Nations Rage: Rethinking Faith and Politics in a Divided Age by Jonathan Leeman  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Who doesn't want to see revival? I think all Christians long to see the day when the Spirit of God moves greatly through our country once again. But, is that really what revival is? While we often pray for revival, are praying for the right thing? Listen in this week as Evangelist Scott Pauley talks about his new book, Revival Praying.Recommended Resources:Revival Praying by Scott PauleyThe Enjoying the Journey PodcastEvangelist Scott Pauley Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back answering your questions. This month we're covering everything from the Trinity to our particular food likes and dislikes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is our final week going through the book, Unquestioned Answers by Jeff Myers. Ray and I give a few concluding thoughts about the book, simplicity within Christianity, a few cliches of our own and some other recommendations.Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Dr. Jeff MyersLove Your God with All Your Mind: The Role of Reason in the Life of the Soul by J.P. MorelandThe Secret Battle of Ideas about God: Overcoming the Outbreak of Five Fatal Worldviews by Dr. Jeff Myers Understanding the Times: A Survey of Competing Worldviews by Jeff Myers A Call for Theological Triage and Christian Maturity by Dr. R. Albert Mohler Jr. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ray and I continue our walk through the book Unquestioned Answers by Jeff Myers. This week we're close to the end in chapter 10, "God is Good all the time; all the time God is good." It seems like many Christians use this phrase to minimize, or even worse - ignore, the pain we all face from time to time. Listen in as we chat about the reality of suffering in the Christian life.Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Dr. Jeff Myers Where Is God When It Hurts? by Philip YanceySurprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life by C. S. Lewis  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ray and I continue our walk through the new book by Dr. Jeff Myers - Unquestioned Answers. This week we discuss chapter 9, "This World has Nothing for me." Are we just passing through this world, are we just waiting for the rapture? Or, is there something more? Does God have us on this earth merely to wait for his return or do we have a job to do now? Listen in as we tackle these questions and more.Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Dr. Jeff MyersIt’s Time for a New Culture War Strategy by Kevin DeYoungLast Days Madness: Obsession of the Modern Church by Gary Demar Amazing Grace: William Wilberforce and the Heroic Campaign to End Slavery by Eric MetaxasAmazing Grace (movie)Amazing Grace in the Life of William Wilberforce by John Piper Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're rolling right along with our series on Unquestioned Answers by Dr. Jeff Myers. This week we cover chapter 8, "It's Not My Place to Judge." Is it ever ok to judge someone? Is there a difference between judging and being judgmental. Is God judgmental? Ray Jewell and I will answer these questions and more in this week's episode.Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Dr. Jeff Myers Them by Ben Sasse Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ray and I are back at working our way through the book, Unquestioned Answers by Jeff Myers. This week we are in chapter 7 asking the question, was Jesus as a social justice warrior? As you can imagine, this will involve a little bit of controversy. Actually, listen in and you'll hear Ray and I differ a bit from Dr. Myers on this topic. Just a side note, this episode was recorded before we aired our recent episodes on racial reconciliation. Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Dr. Jeff Myers Generous Justice: How God's Grace Makes Us Just by Timothy Keller Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We once again return to our scheduled series on the book Unquestioned Answers by Jeff Myers. This week Ray and I discuss chapter 6, "Christianity is A Relationship; Not A Religion." Listen in as we discuss why we disagree so much with this statement, It's a personal pet peeve...Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Dr. Jeff Myers The Secret Battle of Ideas about God: Answers to Life's Biggest Questions by Dr. Jeff MyersThe Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name by Sally Lloyd-JonesJesus > Religion: Why He Is So Much Better Than Trying Harder, Doing More, and Being Good Enough by Jefferson Bethke  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As our nation searches for answers as we continue to struggle through the ramifications of what has been called our nation's original sin, is there any hope? Can we find away to bridge the great divide when it comes to race? Our guest today has a message of hope to share with us. Michael Bell is one of the pastors at New Zion Baptist Church in Beloit, WI and is on the front lines when it comes to this debate. Warning, you may not like everything Pastor Bell has to say - but we must be willing to at least listen to each other and learn from others with a different perspective and life experience.Recommended Resources:The Willie Lynch Letter and the Making of a Slave by Willie LynchBetween Barack and a Hard Place: Racism and White Denial in the Age of Obama by Tim Wise Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Right now our country is in flames as we wrestle with the murder of George Floyd by a local police officer. Wounds of racism have been ripped open and we are left grappling with the age-old question of how to heal. In the midst of all this, I was privileged to attend a special Sunday evening service at the Family Worship Center in Beloit, WI. Pastor Adam Meyer asked Bishop Michael Cole (Pastor of the Family Worship Center in Dixon, IL) to speak on the issue of racial reconciliation. The message so convicting and thought-provoking I asked if I could share it on this podcast. So here it is...Recommended Resources:Bloodlines: Race, Cross, and the Christian by John PiperUnited: Captured by God's Vision for Diversity by Trillia J. Newbell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ray and I are continue our travels through the book, Unquestioned Answers by Jeff Myers. This week we cover chapter 5 about loving the sinner while hating the sin. Is this even possible? We'll chat about how we often like to focus on the sins of others while ignoring our own problems. Listen in to hear this great conversation.Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Jeff MyersThe Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert by Rosaria Butterfield  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a couple of weeks off, we return to our series on the new book Unquestioned Answers by Jeff Myers. However, instead of Ray and I covering another chapter, this week we have invited none other than the author himself, Jeff Myers, to join us. Listen in as Jeff gives us further insight into the concept simplicism and laugh along as I try to pronounce it...Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Jeff Myers Understanding the Times: A Survey of Competing Worldviews by Jeff MyersSummit Ministries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week our guest is the one and only Ray Comfort of Living Waters Ministries! Ray is on the podcast to talk about his latest book, Anyone But Me. We chat about why its important to share the gospel and how to overcome the fear we may experience in doing so. You won't want to miss this interview!You can even watch the video here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sf-R-nrRrIQ&t=155sRecommended Resources:Anyone but Me: 10 Ways to Overcome Your Fear and Be Prepared to Share the Gospel by Ray Comfort Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Across the world churches find themselves in the cumbersome position of not being able to gather together as we are called to do. In the midst of a global pandemic, how does the church be the church? How can we stay connected to the body, and yet keep safe? These are a few of the questions I discuss with Pastor Joshua Dostal of the Mercy Hill Church in Janesville, WI. Gain a pastor's perspective about church life in the age of Covid-19.Recommended Resources:Coronavirus and Christ by John PiperCrazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God by Francis Chan Celebration of Discipline by Richard J. FosterHinds' Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we take a short break from our series on Unquestioned Answers to talk about a book coming out this week - Demons: What the Bible Really Says about the Powers of Darkness. So join us as we welcome back Dr. Michael Heiser to the podcast. Trust me, you only think you know what the Bible says about demons. This is a fascinating book and an equally fascinating conversation. You won't want to miss out on this one!Recommended Resources:Demons: What the Bible Really Says about the Powers of Darkness by Dr. Michael Heiser  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ray and I are back at it again, working our way through the new book, Unquestioned Answers by Jeff Myers. This week we discuss the importance of church and community. It's not just "Jesus and me." This is the first time Ray and I have ever recorded from two separate locations via Zoom.Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Jeff MyersMere Christianity by C.S. LewisNine Marks of a Healthy Church by Mark DeverThe Radical Disciple: Some Neglected Aspects of Our Calling by John Stott  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Ray and I are back discussing the book Unquestioned Answers by Jeff Myers. In chapter 3 we cover the often misunderstood II Chronicles 7:14 which leads us into a conversation both about prayer and hermeneutics which is the study of the Bible.Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Jeff MyersE.M. Bounds on Prayer by E.M. BoundsThe Prayer of Our Lord by Philip Graham RykenPraying the Bible by Donald S. WhitneyJourney into God's Word: Your Guide to Understanding and Applying the Bible by J. Scott Duvall Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes: Removing Cultural Blinders to Better Understand the Bible by E. Randolph Richards and Brandon J. O'Brien Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Ray and I are back chatting about the recently released book, Unquestioned Answers by Jeff Myers. In chapter 2 we're discussing the issue of faith. Is faith the opposite of facts and rational thought? Join us as we tackle some difficult topics you'll want to hear.Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers by Jeff MyersThe Unshakable Truth: Experience the 12 Essentials of a Relevant Faith by Josh and Sean McDowell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back on our series exploring the new book by Jeff Myers entitled, Unquestioned Answers. This week Ray and I discuss chapter one, "God Said it; I Believe it, and that Settles It for Me."Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers by Jeff MyersThe Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism by Timothy KellerThe Case for Christ by Lee Strobel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Its been awhile since we've done in Reigning in Ray! We're back. So listen in as Ray and chat about life under quarantine including Ray's new Broadway play and Kevin's blurb for a yet-to-be-published book. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode we're tackling the coronavirus. Our guest is Dr. Gordon Lin, an ER doctor in Rockford, IL. We want to take this seriously as we love our neighbor and not hysterically as we have not been given a spirit of fear. Listen in for a serious theological and medical discussion with just a touch of humor.For the first time ever - watch the video of this podcast here - https://youtu.be/GP6JmQkWkqoRecommended Resources:What To Do if You Are Sick by the CDCCoronavirus disease (COVID-19) Pandemic by the WHOEM:RAP Live: COVID-19 Update Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we begin a series based on the new book, Unquestioned Answers by Jeff Meyers. The book explores many of those questions Christians often ponder but never feel comfortable asking. In the next few weeks we will tackle ten different cliches that serve to suppress any thought or discussion and only provides surface level simplicity that helps no one. Recommended Resources:Unquestioned Answers: Rethinking Ten Christian Clichés to Rediscover Biblical Truths by Dr. Jeff Myers Understanding the Times: A Survey of Competing Worldviews by Dr. Jeff Myers and Dr. David A. Noebel  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For this week's podcast I blow off the dust of an interview I conducted years ago with Thabiti Anyabwile about his book What is A Healthy Church Member? While the audio quality isn't the greatest, the content is well worth your time (and maybe your strain). We first talk about Thabiti's salvation testimony and then get into topics such as a Biblical case for membership, church discipline, how to listen to a sermon, what part theology should play in the lives of the average person in the pew, and what the gospel really is all about. Thabiti Anyabwile is a church planter in Washington DC (has been Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Grand Cayman in the Grand Cayman Islands) and a Council member with The Gospel Coalition.Recommended Resources:What is A Healthy Church Member? by Thabiti AnyabwileFinding Faithful Elders and Deacons by Thabiti AnyabwileThe Pure Church BlogThabiti on TwitterCommunity Strong Family Conference Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode we welcome back Evangelist Sean Teis of Life Factors Ministries. Recorded live in front of a group of teenagers at Lake Waubesa Bible Camp, Sean and I talk about the Gospel as we walk through Ephesians chapter two. Recommended Resources:Life Factors MinistriesGod is My Dad!Lake Waubesa Bible Camp Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to part two of our conversation with Dr. Richard Knopp and Dr. Zach Breitenbach on the campus of Lincoln Christian University. We're chatting about their new apologetic program, Room for Doubt. The conversation was going so great we just let the recording run as we kept on going well beyond our normal episode time frame. So, sit back and enjoy this fun but meaningful conversation.Recommended Resources:Room For Doubt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Basic Bible Podcast is back after a long hiatus! This is a two-part episode as Ray Jewell and I are back on the campus of Lincoln Christian University. This time we are there to explore the Room For Doubt apologetic program. Joining us are the creators of the program, Dr. Richard Knopp and Dr. Zach Breitenbach. In this first installment we talk about doubt in general and explain how this program addresses just that.Recommended Resources:Room For Doubt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to the podcast! Due to some serious health issues and lots of other things, I have been unable to post a new episode in quite some time. But, here's a quick bonus episode to let you know we're still alive and hopefully this will help get you through while we're on a temporary hiatus till things calm down. This is a quick interview I conducted with H.B. Charles, pastor of the Shiloh Metropolitan Baptist Church, fellow podcaster, and host of the annual Cutting it Straight Conference.Recommended Resources:On Preaching: Personal & Pastoral Insights for the Preparation & Practice of Preaching by H.B. Charles JrOn Preaching PodcastCutting it Straight Conference Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Ray Jewell takes over as I continue to recover from surgery. Ray gives us an overview of the Book of Revelation as he prepares to go through each chapter in his upcoming blog series.Recommended Resources:Revelation's Rhapsody: Listening to the Lyrics of the Lamb: How to Read the Book of Revelation by Robert Lowery Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special Christmas edition, Ray and I chat about some popular myths about Christmas such as when Christ was actually born, where He was actually born, when the wise came and even the story of the candy cane.Recommended Resources:Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes: Cultural Studies in the Gospels by by Kenneth E. BaileyWe Don’t Know the Origins of the Candy Cane, But They Almost Certainly Were Not Christian by Rose Eveleth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're talking about the advantages of participating in small groups within the church. So, joining us this week is none other than my small group! So listen in as Ray and I chat with our fellow group members Jon Grice (pastor of Roxbury Church) and Craig Bergum (Elder at Roxbury Church).Recommended Resources:Church is a Team Sport: A Championship Strategy for Doing Ministry Together by Jim PutmanReal-Life Discipleship: Building Churches That Make Disciples by Jim PutmanWhy Small Groups? by C. J. Mahaney Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joining Ray and I is Pastor Doug Stewart, the Assistant Pastor at Lifeway Baptist Church and the author of the new book, Amos: Perfect Justice, Shocking Mercy. You are going to want to tune in to hear about this great resource. The book is a Bible study through one of the rarely looked at Minor Prophets. You will find this to edifying and helpful in not just your youth group but you adult small group as well. I highly recommend it so listen to learn more!Recommended Resources:Amos: Perfect Justice, Shocking Mercy by Doug StewartGlow Publications Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this last episode in our series on misused Bible verses, Ray Jewell and I cover subjects such as guarding your heart, lifting up the name of Jesus and what it means to have a vision.Recommended Resources:The Most Misused Verses in the Bible: Surprising Ways God’s Word Is Misunderstood by Eric J. BargerhuffExalting Jesus in Proverbs (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) by Jonathan Akin Proverbs (Holman Old Testament Commentary) by Max Anders  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I apologize in advance for what Ray assumed would be a "boring" episode... But I think we covered some important topics concerning not just thankfulness but health and the need for fellowship. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Ray Jewell and I continue our series on misused Bible verses. Listen in and hear us chat about what means when the Old Testament tells us to take an eye for an eye. We follow that with a conversation from the book of James about prayers offered in faith followed by the command found in Acts to repent and be baptized. Recommended Resources:The Most Misused Verses in the Bible: Surprising Ways God’s Word Is Misunderstood by Eric J. Bargerhuff Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a few week hiatus, the Basic Bible Podcast is back! We are continuing on with our series on commonly misused Bible verses. This week Ray and I tackle answer the question will God ever give us more than we can handle? We also discuss what it means to be able to do all things and the promise God gives about raising your child in the way he should go.Recommended Resources:The Most Misused Verses in the Bible: Surprising Ways God’s Word Is Misunderstood by Eric J. Bargerhuff Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this month's Reining in Ray we are once again hanging out in Mocha Moment sitting by the fireside in some pretty comfy chairs. This time we're chatting about preaching. I ask Ray to talk about his first sermon and we end things off talking about what drives us nuts about some modern preaching. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here we are in part 4 of our series on commonly misused Bible verses. In this episode Ray Jewell and I answer how Jesus is the first born of all creation and then leap into just what is the root of all evil. You know, light subjects...Recommended Resources:The Most Misused Verses in the Bible: Surprising Ways God’s Word Is Misunderstood by Eric J. Bargerhuff Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this third episode in our series on misused Bible verses, Ray Jewell and I look at what Romans really is means when we are promised that all things will work together for good and we will discuss whether Americans Christians can claim to be the "my people" whose land God will heal when He hears from heaven. Recommended Resources:The Most Misused Verses in the Bible: Surprising Ways God’s Word Is Misunderstood by Eric J. Bargerhuff Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ray Jewell and I continue our look at Eric J. Bargerhuff's list of 17 commonly misused Bible verses. This week we look at three verses dealing with Jeremiah's promise that God's plans for you are to prosper and not harm you, what it means when two or three are gathered in His name, and finally we talk about it means to pray in the name of Jesus.Recommended Resources:REFLECT: Becoming Yourself by Mirroring the Greatest Person in History by Thaddeus J. WilliamsThe Most Misused Verses in the Bible: Surprising Ways God’s Word Is Misunderstood by Eric J. Bargerhuff Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Ray Jewell and I begin a series on some of the most misused and misapplied verses in all the Bible. We are basing our list off the book, The Most Misused Verses in the Bible: Surprising Ways God's Word Is Misunderstood by Eric J. Bargerhuff. This week we kick things off with a discussion on what the Bible says about judging.Recommended Resources:The Most Misused Verses in the Bible: Surprising Ways God's Word Is Misunderstood by Eric J. Bargerhuff Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever noticed that Catholic or Orthodox Bibles have more books in them than your's may have? Why is that? Where did these other books come from and why do Evangelicals leave them out? Joining us on the podcast this week is Steve Christie, author of the book Why Protestant Bibles are Smaller: A Defense of the Protestant Old Testament Canon.Recommended Resources:Why Protestant Bibles are Smaller: A Defense of the Protestant Old Testament Canon by Steve ChristieNot Really “Of” Us: Why Do Children of Christian Parents Abandon the Faith? by Steve ChristieSteve's Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are on location for this episode, recording in a real podcast studio hosted at Lincoln Christian University in Lincoln, IL. Joining us is the President of Lincoln Christian University, Dr. Don Green. Also joining us, a proud alumnus of LCU, our own co-host Ray Jewell. You'll want to listen to this fascinating conversation about Christian education and future of higher education itself.Recommended Resources:Excellent Sheep: The Miseducation of the American Elite and the Way to a Meaningful Life by William Deresiewicz  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a rare live episode recorded in front of an actual audience! Recorded at the Community Strong Family Conference, Phil Allen, Ray Jewell and myself field questions concerning parenting and child-raising.Recommended Resources:When Sinners Say "I Do" by Dave HarveyWhat Did You Expect? by Paul David TrippFor Women Only: What You Need to Know About the Inner Lives of Men by Shaunti FeldhahnFor Men Only: A Straightforward Guide to the Inner Lives of Women by Shaunti Feldhahn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recently Ray and I were sent copies of the soon-to-be-released book, Who's Got Your Back? by David W. Smith. Here's a quick preview:Who’s Got Your Back? provides a clarion call for men to be the kind of men modeled for us by Jesus. This is a playbook on how to be strong, task oriented and achieving, but also warm-hearted and unmistakably relationship driven during the rough and tumble of everyday life. This good book brings into sharp focus a genuine and functional and real-life definition of manliness. David Smith has skillfully woven stories with practical application strategies for building more satisfying friendships. Those who have your back will usually be the same individuals who know they can count on you in the good times and in times of trouble.So tune in as Ray chat about this book and need for genuine, Biblical friendship.Recommended Resources:Who's Got Your Back? by David W. Smith Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're talking to a special guest musical artist Josh Calhoun. Josh was once a member of the popular Christian band Citizen's Way but now sticks a little closer to home focusing on his roles as husband, father and local church leader. In this his first solo album, he publishes a number of his own songs exploring his heart and walk with the Lord. As we chat, we talk about his music, his faith and his family. I had a lot of fun with this interview and I think you'll enjoy it.Recommended Resources:Josh Calhoun Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Ray and I are back on the road with all the background noise to prove it... Ray and I traveled back to Lincoln Christian University where we were able to record a few interviews and tour a really cool Abraham Lincoln museum. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sometimes we forget that God is working outside the four walls of our particular churches. God is even at work within cultures much different than our, cultures we may not even realize exist. Doug Shaw of Forthright Ministries has a new project he is working on to expose how Christ is moving among tribal peoples. You will want to hear some of the exciting stories Doug has been able to collect from around the world and even right next door.Resources:Forthright MinistriesKickStarter for Alpha ProjectColorado Peaches Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keeping his word, author Ted Kluck is our special guest this week. Ted is an assistant professor of Communication Arts at Union University as well as the author of over 15 books. You may know him from two highly popular podcasts, the Happy Rant and the Gut Check podcast. On this podcast Ted his helping us launch what I hope will become a reoccurring segment, adoption stories. Adoption is a wonderful picture of redemption and our own relationship with Christ. Ted tells us about his two adoptions as detailed in his book, Hello, I Love You: Adventures in Adoptive Fatherhood. It's a heart-warming but realistic tale. So, listen in and share this with a friend!Recommended Resources Hello, I Love You: Adventures in Adoptive Fatherhood by Ted KluckWhy We're Not Emergent: By Two Guys Who Should Be by Kevin DeYoung and Ted KluckHousehold Gods by Ted Kluck and Kristin KluckThe Extraordinary Life of a Mediocre Jock: God, I’ll Do Anything – Just Make Me Awesome by Ted Kluck re:raptured by CommitteeTed's Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've made it episode 100!! To celebrate this milestone we have a super special guest, journalist and apologist Lee Strobel - yes, that Lee Strobel. Lee is the author of the Case for Christ and many other books. He was the subject of the major motion picture, the Case for Christ. In this special episode, we chat about one of his latest books, The Case for Miracles. What is a miracle? AIs there any proof of genuine miracles? Lee will answer these questions and more. We are also going to be giving away a SIGNED copy of the book as well. Be checking our blog and social media for more details on that. Recommended Resources:The Case for Christ: A Journalist's Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus by Lee Strobel The Case for Miracles: A Journalist Investigates Evidence for the Supernatural by Lee Strobel The Case for Grace: A Journalist Explores the Evidence of Transformed Lives by Lee StrobelThe Case for the Real Jesus: A Journalist Investigates Scientific Evidence That Points Toward God by Lee Strobel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week joining us on the podcast is author Jennifer Greenberg. Jennifer's book, Not Forsaken, is her story of how her faith in Christ helped her become a survivor of terrible childhood abuse. She gives readers an inside look into the mind of an abuse victim and It is, by far, the most powerful book I've read all year. But, I warn you, it is a difficult read - yet an important one. If you have been the victim of abuse or if you wish to minister to those who have been, you need to read this book!Recommended Resources:Not Forsaken: A Story of Life After Abuse: How Faith Brought One Woman from Victim to Survivor by Jennifer Michelle GreenbergJennifer's Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We have finally arrived at commandment number ten in our series on the Ten Commandments. Join us as Ray Jewell and I wrap things us with a discussion on coveting.Recommended ResourcesThe Ten Commandments: What They Mean, Why They Matter, and Why We Should Obey Them by Kevin DeYoungKeeping the Ten Commandments by J. I. PackerWords from the Fire by Albert Mohler Jr.How Jesus Transforms The Ten Commandments by Edmund P. ClowneyThe Ten Commandments by A.W. Pink Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm not lying to you, we've reached the Ninth Commandment in our series on the Ten Commandments. Ray Jewell is back to talk about bearing false witness, and that's the truth!Recommended Resources:The Ten Commandments: What They Mean, Why They Matter, and Why We Should Obey Them by Kevin DeYoung Keeping the Ten Commandments by J. I. Packer   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this July episode, Ray and I travel down to Eureka College and Dixon, IL to visit some of former stomping grounds of our 40th President, Ronald Reagan. Ray and I are chatting in the car about Reagan and few other of our favorite presidents of the past. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Continuing right along through the Ten Commandments, we come to commandment number 8 - do not steal. Like the rest of the commandments, this may seem like an easy one but as we'll see, there's more to it than we often are willing to recognize. This week we welcome back Caleb Powers from the Christian Artist podcast to join in the discussion.Recommended Resources:The Ten Commandments: What They Mean, Why They Matter, and Why We Should Obey Them by Kevin DeYoung Thou Shalt Not Kill by Phil JohnsonSocialism is Theft by Jeff Durbin Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I was saddened to hear of the death of apologist and theologian Norman Geisler. Though I would disagree with some of his material, he was a defender of the faith and greatly used of God. About ten years ago I had the chance to sit down with Dr. Geisler and recorded a very quick interview. So, in his honor, I thought I would air that interview this week.Recommended Resources:I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist by Norman L. Geisler Christian Apologetics by Norman L. GeislerExplaining Biblical Inerrancy: Official Commentary on the ICBI Statements by Norman L. Geisler and R. C. Sproul Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

And we're back to the Ten Commandments! In this episode Pastor Michael Carl of the Christ the King Charismatic Episcopal Church in Wakefield, MA joins us to chat about adultery. Listen in as chat about the difficulty of marriage, how the words of Jesus shed light on this commandment and how we may find ourselves dangerously close to cheating on our spouse without necessarily knowing it.Recommended Resources:Letters to a Would-be Adulterer by Desiring GodWhen Sinners Say I Do by Dave HarveyWhat Did You Expect?: Redeeming the Realities of Marriage by Paul David TrippWords from the Fire by Albert Mohler Jr.Power for Living Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From bakers in Colorado to to clerks in Kentucky to new legislation passed in Georgia and Alabama, everyone is talking about the issues of life, marriage, and religious liberty. In this week's episode, we're talking about the newly released book, Life, Marriage, and Religious Liberty: What Belongs to God, What Belongs to Caesar. Joining us is one of the contributors to that book, Bruce Ashford. Bruce is the Provost and Professor of Theology & Culture at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary as well as a Fellow in Public Theology at the Kirby Laing Institute for Christian Ethics (Cambridge, UK), a Research Fellow at the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, and a participant in the Dulles Colloquium of the Institute on Religion & Public Life.Recommended Resources:Life, Marriage, and Religious Liberty: What Belongs to God, What Belongs to Caesar by David S. Dockery and John Stonestreet Letters to an American Christian by by Bruce Ashford Every Square Inch: An Introduction to Cultural Engagement for Christians by Bruce Riley Ashford One Nation Under God: A Christian Hope for American Politics by Bruce Riley Ashford  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy Father's Day! In this special edition of the podcast, Sean Teis joins us to talk about his ministry to fatherless children and single moms. Sean travels across the country fulfilling James 1:17 by pointing people to Jesus through visiting the widow and the orphan. This is a great ministry that you need to know about. We also chat about the importance of fathers and encourage those Dads who may be a bit discouraged themselves today.Recommended Resources:Life Factors Ministry: Leading Fatherless Families to the Heavenly FatherGod is My Dad: Finding Security and Worth in Him Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"Thou shalt not kill." Seems pretty simple, right? Before you pass over this episode as something that doesn't apply to you, think again. What did Jesus say about this topic? In this episode, fellow Christian School teacher, and former co-worker, Gary Zimmerman (Rockford Lutheran School) joins me to talk about the Sixth Commandment (though Gary believes it to be the fifth commandment). Recommended Resources:The Ten Commandments: What They Mean, Why They Matter, and Why We Should Obey Them by Kevin DeYoungAbortion: A Rational Look at An Emotional Issue by R.C. SproulWhy Pro-Life? Caring for the Unborn and Their Mothers  by Randy AlcornGood and Angry by David PowlisonHow to reject physician-assisted suicide by Matthew HawkinsEnd-of-Life:  The Dying Process by Joe CarterThe Large Catechism - The Book of ConcordAn Explanation of The Small Catechism (page 21ff)Grappling: Luther, Life and Anger (The Ten Commandments)HT Video Catechism - Ep. 8 - The Fifth Commandment Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ray and I chat about the recent kerfuffle about David Platt and Donald Trump, then talk about the idea of "thoughts and prayers" concerning the latest mass shooting and then we end the program talking about a truly bizarre dessert enjoyed by the Jewell family. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we talking about honoring your father and mother. Is there a difference between honoring and obeying? What if your parents aren't very honorable people? How does this commandment apply to adults? These are the questions we ask Dr. Dan Burrell, the Executive Pastor at LIFE Fellowship Church in Cornelius, NC and the author behind the Whirled Views blog.Recommended Resources:Shepherding a Child's Heart by Tedd TrippInstructing a Child's Heart by Tedd and Margy TrippApParent Privilege by Steve WrightThe Ten Commandments: What They Mean, Why They Matter, and Why We Should Obey Them by Kevin DeYoung The Ten Commandments: Bible Study Devotional and Commentary for Practical Use by Thomas Watson Whirled Views with Dan BurrellThe LIFETalks Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Earlier this month I was privileged enough to attend the Doctrine and Devotion Conference once again. This time I had a chance to record a few quick interview. I ask Joe Thorn to advise the "Lonely Calvinist." I talk to Barnabas Piper about reading habits. Dr. Jim Hamilton was kind enough to tell me about the dangers of not having a coherent Biblical theology. I was also able to chat with representatives from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and International Reformed Baptist Seminary.Recommended ResourcesWhat Is Biblical Theology? by James M. Hamilton Jr. Doctrine and Devotion PodcastInternational Reformed Baptist SeminaryMidwestern Baptist Seminary Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pastor Phil Allen (Daystar Christian Fellowship) join us again as we continue our series on the Ten Commandments. This week we remembering the Sabbath. There's a lot of discussion and debate about when the Sabbath is and just what we are allowed to do during it. Yet, on this podcast, we dig a little deeper than legalistic regulations and ask what the Sabbath really means and how God intended it to be used by His people.Recommended Resources:And so to Bed...: A Biblical View of Sleep by Adrian ReynoldsThe Ten Commandments: What They Mean, Why They Matter, and Why We Should Obey Them by Kevin DeYoung Remember the Sabbath Day to Keep It Holy by John Piper Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our series on the Ten Commandments is finally back!!! Join Ray Jewell and I as we dive right back by chatting about what it means to take the Lord's name in vain.Recommended Resources:The Ten Commandments: What They Mean, Why They Matter, and Why We Should Obey Them by Kevin DeYoung  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is it like to grow up with a world-famous theologian as your father? In his new book, Growing Up (with) R.C., R.C. Sproul Jr. shares several endearing memories of his father and the lessons that will always stick with him. R.C. also talks candidly about his own struggles and how the grace of God reaches even the most depraved among us. You won't want to miss this episode!Recommended Resources:Growing Up (with) R.C. by R.C. Sproul Jr.R.C.'s Blog Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Ray and I met at Mocha Moment in Janesville to review the new book, Competing Spectacles: Treasuring Christ in the Media Age by Tony Reinke. The book seeks to explore what it means to live in an image-filled world where are bombarded with spectacle after spectacle all competing for our nine second attention spans. Listen and as Ray and I give our thoughts on this book and the issues raised by it. Disclaimer - Ray and I received free, advanced copies of the book for purpose of promoting it. But, we wouldn't promote it if we didn't like it.Recommended Resources:Competing Spectacles: Treasuring Christ in the Media Age by Tony Reinke12 Ways Your Phone Is Changing You by Tony Reinke  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we take a break from our series on the Ten Commandments to tell you about a great new book to be released this week. J. Warner Wallace is known as a cold-case detective who turned to an apologist when he decided to look into the claims of Christianity. You can read about his story in Cold Case Christianity. Detective Wallace's latest book is entitled, So the Next Generation Will Know: Preparing Young Christians for a Challenging World. This is practical book about how pass along the faith to the next generation of Christians that seem to be walking from the church. You won't want to miss this episode as Ray Jewell and I chat with J. Warner Wallace himself about the book.Recommended Resources:So the Next Generation Will Know: Preparing Young Christians for a Challenging World by Sean McDowell and J. Warner Wallace Cold-Case Christianity: A Homicide Detective Investigates the Claims of the Gospels by J. Warner Wallace God's Crime Scene: A Cold-Case Detective Examines the Evidence for a Divinely Created Universe by J. Warner WallaceForensic Faith: A Homicide Detective Makes the Case for a More Reasonable, Evidential Christian Faith by J. Warner Wallace  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of Reining in Ray, Ray and I talk about our recent road trips. Actually, this podcast was recorded in the car, so you'll hear my muffler and a few road noises. (Shout out to Fearnside's Fix All) First, we drove down to Lincoln Christian University for a seminary lectureship on Technology, Transhumanism and Morality. This is also the college Ray spent quite some time at. In that same week, Ray and I headed north to Memorial Baptist Church in Verona, WI for a conference on forgiveness with Pastor Chris Brauns. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When was the last time you bowed down to an Idol you carved out yourself? In this episode we're discussing the Second Commandment and how it relates to our worship of the Lord. Joining us is missionary to Haiti, Sean Christensen who also serves as a seminary professor. He and I chat about worship and even get into issues such as are artist renditions of Jesus a violation of the commandment.Recommended ResourcesThe 10 Greatest Struggles of Your Life: Finding Freedom in God’s Commands by Colin S. SmithThe Ten Commandments: What They Mean, Why They Matter, and Why We Should Obey Them by Kevin DeYoungWords From the Fire: Hearing the Voice of God in the 10 Commandments by R. Albert Mohler Jr. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This we jump into the First Commandment. What does it mean to have no other gods? How do we define idolatry? Since few in our churches are guilty of bowing down worshiping statues, does this commandment even apply to us today? Joining me to discus these questions and more is Pastor Allen Nelson of the Perryville Second Baptist Church in Arkansas and author of the book From Death to Life. Pastor Nelson also blogs at Things Above.Recommended Resources:Words From the Fire: Hearing the Voice of God in the 10 Commandments by R. Albert Mohler Jr. The Holiness of God by R. C. SproulThe Baptist Catechism Journal by Benjamin Keach The Ten Commandments: What They Mean, Why They Matter, and Why We Should Obey Them by Kevin DeYoung The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism by Timothy Keller Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we begin our 11 week series on the Ten Commandments. In this first episode, Pastor Phil Allen and I discuss the role of the law and it's implications for us today. How are the Ten Commandments relevant for New Testament Christians living by grace?Recommend ResourcesThe Ten Commandments by J. DoumaThe Ten Commandments: What They Mean, Why They Matter, and Why We Should Obey Them by Kevin DeYoung Keeping the Ten Commandments by J. I. PackerHow Jesus Transforms The Ten Commandments by Edmund P. Clowney Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week features a guest I've been looking forward to meeting - Paul Cox of RefToons. For the last year RefToons has been my favorite online comic strip. RefToons features great quotes from well-known Reformed theologians accompanied by an awesome, original illustration. Paul is now working an exciting new project, a children's version of Pilgrim's Progress. He "and his wife, Stephanie, guide young readers through an incredible, poetic journey, filled with inspiring illustrations of the trials and triumphs of one man's pilgrimage." You will want to jump on board and support this project, but his Kickstarter campaign ends this week, so act now! Listen in to learn more about this book and how you can help.Recommended ResourcesThe Pilgrim's Progress: A Poetic Journey Kickstarter PageRefToons Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most Christians, if asked, would say they want revival. They might even regularly pray for revival. But, do we really want a genuine revival and all that goes along with a true Bible revival? In his book Nobody Wants Revival, Evangelist Ben Everson confronts us with some false ideas people mistake for Biblical revival and challenges us to individually search our hearts and seek genuine repentance through humility, prayer and holiness. Listen in as Ray Jewell and I chat about this book with Ben himself. It's a great conversation you won't want to miss.Recommended Resources:Nobody Wants Revival by Ben EversonBen Everson Ministries Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If there is anything we know about the life of Jesus is that He never judged anyone and as His followers we too are never to judge anyone. At least this is what so many seem to believe. However, when we look at what Scripture actually says and what Jesus in particular commanded us to do, you might be a bit surprised. So, you will want to listen to this episode! Joining me this week is Doug Shaw of Forthright Ministries International. Doug will also share about an exciting new project his ministry is beginning to tackle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Reining in Ray, I throw out some random questions like name three people you want on your zombie apocalypse team and name an item on your bucket list. Joining us for the first time ever is my oldest son, Tony. You'll hear a little bit of background noise as we recorded at the Mocha Moment coffee shop in Janesville, WI. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What makes a Christian marriage distinctly Christian? In his latest book Christian Marriage: An Introduction, Dr. David Ayers of Grove City College, takes us through what the Bible has to say about this subject starting where God starts - the Garden of Eden. This is a fascinating book and we has quite a fascinating conversation about it on this week's podcast. We chat about pre-marriage counseling, how churches can promote health marriages and, yes, we talk about sex among other things. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week I'm joined by my boss, Tim Befus, who serves as the administrator of Rock County Christian School in Beloit, WI. Tim talks a little bit about his background and the years he served at RCCS but we spend most of our time chatting about the upcoming Community Strong Family Conference. This year Lee Strobel (A Case for Christ) joins us live and in person as our keynote speaker. The conference is free and open to all who will come. Listen in to hear more! To sign up for your FREE tickets, log on to www.rccsfamilyconference.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here on our 75th episode we are joined by Biblical scholar Dr. Michael Heiser as we chat about his latest book, Angels: What the Bible Really Says About God’s Heavenly Host. It is a fascinating book and a fascinating conversation you won't want to miss! You can also listen to Dr. Heiser on his podcast, the Naked Bible Podcast and at his website. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In response to legislation in the states of New York and Virginia that would seek to radically expand abortion rights, Ray Jewell and I discuss the sanctity of every human life both in and out of the womb. Rather than a technical lecture, we speak from the heart and turn to the Word of God as we consider this very complex issue. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is our final episode of our journey through the attributes of God. Join us as Pastor Phil Allen (Daystar Christian Fellowship in South Beloit, WI) helps us wrap things up with a discussion about how to even think about God. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all like to bask in the love of God, but Scripture also speaks of God's wrath. When we think of anger from a human perspective, we think of someone consumed with vengeance and ready to seek revenge. Is this the God of the Bible? Is the wrath of God ever justified? Joining us this week is Pastor Tim Johnson of the Rock Valley Chapel in Beloit, WI. You won't want to miss this look into a very unpopular subject. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're in our 15th installment of our series on the attributes of God and we finally come to the one attribute most people associate with God - love. So, listen in as Ray Jewell joins us for an encouraging look at how not only God loves us but that how we should be a reflection of that to those around us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Now that the holiday season has ended we delve right back in to our exploration of the attributes of God. In this fourteenth segment, Ray Jewell and I discuss God's mercy - something we all need! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What better way to ring in the new Year than with Ray Jewell and I? In this episode we discuss books that we read this past year. But wait, there's more! In this special extended hour-long edition I ask several others what books impacted them this year. So you will also hear from other great guests such as: Ray Rhodes, Jesse Beernink, Jordan Cernek, Aaron White, Mark Ward, Bob Bixby and Phil Allen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Yesterday marked the fourth Sunday of Advent season leading up to Christmas day tomorrow. Many churches recognize the tradition of Advent, but what does it really mean? Is it ever mentioned in the Bible? How ought we to recognize Christ in all of this? Pastor Aaron White of the River Hills Community Church in Janesville, WI joins us to discuss this topic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's Christmas time and who better to have on the podcast than Santa himself! In this edition of Reining in Ray, Ray and chat about Christmas traditions and how Christian families should address Santa Claus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grace is absolutely amazing, but just what is it and why is it amazing? In this twelfth installment of our look at the attributes of God we talk about one of the most encouraging aspect's of who God is, His grace. Joining us is Scotty Smith, author of several books, the Pastor Emeritus at Christ Community, Teacher in Residence at West End Community Church and the man behind the Heavenward Blog. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus episode we invite Pastor Ray Rhodes Jr. who is the author of the great new book, Susie: The Life and Legacy of Susannah Spurgeon, wife of Charles H. Spurgeon. Many of are already familiar with the Prince of Preachers himself, Charles Spurgeon, but what do we know about his wife? "Susannah Spurgeon was a remarkable woman in her own right. She rode nobody’s coattails and was as instrumental in the gospel ministry of the Spurgeon family as her husband, if less well-known. In this well-crafted and thoroughly researched biography, Ray Rhodes Jr. paints a portrait of Susie’s own life – her growth in faith, her joyful marriage, her strength in suffering, her devoted ministry, and her lasting legacy." Listen in as we chat about Susie Spurgeon, her life, legacy and what it all means for us today. I guarantee you'll learn something you didn't know before and you might even be surprised about a few things. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

They say that patience is a virtue - but more importantly it is an attribute of God. This week Ray Jewell joins us once again as we talk about an attribute we both need to display more in our own lives as we seek to be a reflection of Christ in this world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we continue our look at the attributes of God, this week we chat about the goodness of God. God is good and He is good all the time - but really? Is God good when things are going bad? What is goodness anyway? We welcome back Pastor Phil Allen of the Daystar Christian Fellowship to address these topics and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is our second installment of Reining in Ray - the spin-off podcast where Ray Jewell and I discuss questions submitted by you the listener. This month we chat about Thanksgiving and how to get along with those who disagree with you politically. We also get into topics like social justice and angels dancing on pins. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is our tenth episode exploring the attributes of God. This week Ray Jewell and I chat about something we are not only incredibly thankful for, but daily dependent on - the faithfulness of God. God is always faithful to his children, even when they are not faithful to Him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy Thanksgiving! In this special bonus episode I chat with Evangelist Byron Foxx of Bible Truth Music. Brother Byron and I chat about the special place that music plays in helping foster an attitude of gratitude. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is week nine in our series on the Attributes of God. Our old friend Ray Jewell stops by as we chat about the power of God. Is god really all-powerful? How far does that extend? Are there any limits to what God can do and how does that effect me personally? We'll talk about these topics and more on this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus episode, Ray Jewell and I chat about a newly released book we had the pleasure of reading. A War of Loves by David Bennett is the story of a young man who came out as a homosexual but years later would come to embrace the gospel of Christ. The book is a brutally honest look at his life and attempts to reconcile his sexuality and his faith as he seeks to find his ultimate identity in Christ. Ray and I discuss what we liked about the book and few issues of disagreement we found. Please note the publisher did send us free copies of the book for the purpose of an honest review. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are commanded to be holy as God is holy, but what does it mean to be holy? Some get nervous about any talk of holiness as sometimes it leads to legalism or unattainable standards of perfection. So how is God holy and in what way ought to reflect that holiness ourselves? That's out topic this week on the podcast as we continue our series on the attributes of God. Joining us this week is Dr. J.V. Fesko who presently serves at Westminster Seminary California as Academic Dean and Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we continue our series on the Attributes of God, this week we tackle the issue of immutability - or does God ever change? How about during prayer, can I ever change the mind of God. Does God ever change His mind? Joining us is Phil Johnson, the executive director of Grace to You, editor of John MacArthur's books and one of the authors of the Pyromaniac Blog. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we move in week 6 of our attributes of God series, Dr. Phil Allen joins us to chat about God's sovereignty. For many, this can be quite the controversial topic. But as delve into the subject from a Biblical perspective we will see much more comfort in this doctrine than controversy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This month is pastor appreciation month so we interrupt our series on the attributes of God for a chat between Ray Jewell and I about just how important the pastor is to the life of the church. We also interviewed several pastors to ask them when they feel most appreciated by their church. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode brings us into week five of our study of the attributes of God. Dr. Tim Johnson, the pastor of Rock Valley Chapel in Beloit, WI, joins us to discuss the supremacy of God. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is our first attempt at a new monthly feature we're calling Reining in Ray. This podcast will feature Ray Jewell and I commenting on the questions and topics you the listeners have submitted. No subjects are off limits! In this trial run, we discuss the Kavanaugh confirmation hearings, my idea of a theologically-themed restaurant and a question about Bible commentaries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is part four of our look at the attributes of God. This week Pastor Aaron White of the River Hill Community Church in Janesville, WI is here to chat with us about foreknowledge. Did God merely look ahead through the corridors of time and simply know who would accept His offer of salvation is there something more to this biblical doctrine? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We interrupt our regular scheduled series on the attributes of God to give you this special bonus episode! Dr. Michael L. Brown, host of the Line of Fire radio program and president of the FIRE School of Ministry, was kind of to give me a few minutes of his time to chat about his soon-to-be-released book, Donald Trump is Not My Savior: An Evangelical Leader Speaks His Mind About the Man He Supports as President. So, listen in as Trump supporter Dr. Brown takes questions from me, someone squarely in the #NeverTrump camp. We'll discuss areas of agreement and areas where we need to stand up and oppose the President. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we jump right in to our third episode on the attributes of God. Pastor James White of the Lighthouse Community Church in Vernon, AL and co-host of the Everyday Ministry Podcast joins us to discuss the knowledge of God. Does God actually know everything? (yes) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we cover chapter two of A.W. Pink's the Attributes of God, the Decrees of God. What are God's eternal decrees and how do they apply to us? Joining us to explain this is Dr. Brian Hanson, Assistant Professor of Humanities and Theology at Bethlehem College and Seminary. Brian is also author of the book Waiting on the Spirit of Promise: The Life and Theology of Suffering Of Abraham Cheare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I am very excited to begin this new, 17-part series on the attributes of God. The purpose of our study is explore how God has revealed Himself to us through the pages of Scripture so that we might grow in our knowledge of Him and thus deepen our relationship with Him. We will be using A.W. Pink's classic book on the topic as our guide. Kicking things off, Dr. Phil Allen joins us to talk about chapter one - the solitariness of God. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready to geek out on some sound theology! In the fight against sin, too many Christians take a passive role not realizing the all-war such a fight requires. Are you the wimpy Daniel Larusso or the strike hard, strike first, no mercy Johnny Lawrence in your approach to sin? Joining us this week is one of my favorite podcast hosts, author/pastor Zachary Bartels. You can hear him on such podcasts as Clinch, These Go to Eleven and Gut Check. He's visiting our podcast to chat about his new e-book, Cobra Kai and Sanctification. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is our third and final segment in our series concerning gender roles in the church. In this wrap-up, Ray Jewell and I discuss our sharp differences concerning Complementarianism (the right view) and Egalitarianism (Ray's view) but end by seeing areas upon which can both agree. The most important part is Ray and I walk away from this debate still friends and co-laborers in gospel ministry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is our second segment in our three part series concerning gender roles in the church. This week we cover the complementarian view which states that while God created both genders to be equal in value and worth, He also created them with distinct roles that were intended to complement each other. Joining us to discuss this is one of my favorite modern, theologians - Dr. Bruce Ware of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Ray Jewell and I begin a three week series concerning gender roles within the church. This first week we discuss the Egalitarian view that say suggests that both men and women can preach and hold positions of leadership as gender distinctions no longer exist because Christ's victory at the Cross has erased the differences that once separated us. Joining us is Dr. Paul Axton, the director of Ploughshares Bible Institute. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us this week for a spur of the moment interview with Les Lanphere of the Reformed Pubcast and the wildly popular documentary Calvinist. Les is now working on a new movie on the subject of worship entitled Spirit & Truth. So, to help him kick things off and get this off the ground we've welcomed Les on the program to chat about this new endeavor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week I'm excited to have Dr. Michael Horton on the podcast. Dr. Horton is the host of the White Horse Inn, the editor of Modern Reformation Magazine as well as the J. Gresham Machen Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics at Westminster Seminary California. He has written many books including his latest, Rediscovering the Holy Spirit: God’s Perfecting Presence in Creation, Redemption, and Everyday Life. So join us this week as we talk about Pneumatology - the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast we chat about the difficult concept of forgiveness. By definition forgiveness must include some degree of hurt and pain which often makes this topic difficult to grapple with. Joining us is Pastor Chris Brauns, pastor of the Red Brick Church in Stillman Valley, IL and the author of the book Unpacking Forgiveness. Listen in as we discuss just forgiveness is and issues such as should we forgive those who are unrepentant? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The King James Version is a beloved translation of the Bible still used by many Christians despite the fact that it was originally updated over 400 years ago. Among these Christians are those who would label themselves King James Only meaning they believe the King James Version is the only valid translation of the Bible and that all major translations are at best inferior and at worst corrupt. It was with this in mind that Dr. Mark Ward wrote his latest book, Authorized: The Use and Misuse of the King James Version. In this final segment with Dr. Ward, we talk specifically about his book and how to show respect to a translation clearly blessed by God and yet still be able to appreciation modern, more understandable translations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

*NOTE* - This episode has been updated as the previous file failed to save correctly producing an episode that only contained under 3 minutes of actual audio. The file has been fixed and now the entire interview may be heard. Sorry for the mix-up. Why do we have so many English Bible translations? How do you know which one is right for you? These are just some of the questions I posed to Mark Ward on this week's podcast. Mark received his PhD in New Testament Interpretation from Bob Jones University. He now serves the church as a Logos Pro, writing weekly on Bible study for the Logos Talk Blog and training users in the use of Logos Bible Software. He is the author of multiple high school Bible textbooks, including Biblical Worldview: Creation, Fall, Redemption. He blogs at byfaithweunderstand.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we tackle a subject few in the church seem to want to talk about - abuse. Many people suffer silently and are afraid to speak up about either ongoing or past abuse. Joining us is my friend Dr. Don Woodard who is the pastor Beacon Baptist Church in Salem, VA and the author of Restored: Living and Loving after Abuse. Our conversation is not so much an expose on abuse in the church but rather focuses on ministering to victims. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode Caleb Powers of the Christian Artist Podcast joins me to chat about the popular worship song, Reckless Love. Is the love of God really reckless? Should we really be arguing about one, little word? Join us this week and find out... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week listen in as Ray Jewell joins us once again. This time we are discussing the importance of knowing and studying church history. Believe it or not, we were able to fit it all in to one episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Graduation season has come upon us once again. In this episode of the podcast I am airing a graduation address I gave to the Rock County Christian School Class of 2018. In the address I speak of the relationship between knowledge and wisdom from a Scriptural perspective and how that ties into our relationship with God. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 This week we finish our conversation with Pastor Josh Teis (Southern Hills Baptist Church) concerning Fundamentalism. In this final segment we chat about hero worship and the future of the Independent Baptist movement. Listen closely and we'll throw around names like Jack Hyles, David Platt and Tim Keller and recommend some really good books for you to dive in a little deeper into these matters.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week our topic is Fundamentalism. Our guest is Pastor Josh Teis of the Southern Hills Baptist Church in Las Vegas. Josh and I graduated from the same fundamentalist Christian college and have similar backgrounds within this movement. This will be a two-part episode as the conversation kept flowing and the comments kept on coming. In this first segment we chat about just what fundamentalism is and then look at some key Scriptures concerning the topics of separation and unity within the Body of Christ. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This part two of an interview with Pastor Allen Nelson about his book, From Death to Life: How Salvation Works. In this segment we discuss dangers to avoid and hit on such topics as easy-believism, the practice of altar calls and the so-call prosperity "gospel." We wrap things up with a few other books recommended by our guest as well. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Bible declares that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Your sins have been forgiven and from time to time we need to be reminded of that. The guarantee of forgiveness ought to forever erase the record of debt that once stood against us. That has all been nailed to the Cross. On this episode I invited my friend, and fellow podcast host, Scott Oakland to chat about the idea the concept of absolution. Though Scott comes at this from a Lutheran perspective, we can all agree that the assurance of forgiveness is just a plain, Biblical concept. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is nothing new under the sun. Even many of the problems and false teachings plaguing the church today are nothing more than a few ancient heresies redressed and updated for modern times. One of the earliest false teachings the early church dealt with was called Gnosticism. While our early church fathers rejected this teaching, it hasn't completely gone away. Join us this week as Ray Jewell comes back on the podcast to warn us of how this heresy is once again creeping into the church. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Basic Bible Podcast finally does one of those cool, in-the-car, not edited episodes that's all the rage these days... This is the third and final installment of our special Together for the Gospel series. Driving back from the conference, I am trapped in a car with three preachers excited about the great preaching we all just heard. Joining us are Pastor Jeremy Scott (Memorial Baptist Church - Verona, WI), Pastor Dan Loggans (Christ Fellowship Church - Sun Prairie, WI), and Pastor Micah Tanis (First Baptist Church - Morris, MN). So, we recorded this conversation in the car discussing what we all learned and even continuing the conversation we started in episode one about the celebrity preacher culture.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is our second podcast in our special series covering the Together for the Gospel conference. This edition features several short interviews I conducted while walking around the bookstore with my cell phone. These interviews include:Barnabas Piper (Happy Rant Podcast) - Do you feel threatened by the Basic Bible competition?Jess Miller (Pastor of Calvary Bible Church) - How has appearing on this podcast changed your life?Greg Linscott (Pastor of Brown Street Baptist Church) - How should churches think through the arrival of a new pastor?Aaron Coffey (Evangelist, Coffey Ministries) - What are you gleaning from the conference?Jonathan Leeman (9 Marks) - Tell us about your new book.Dave Jaspers (Pastor of Ridgewood Baptist Church) - What are some common mistakes people make when interpreting Scripture?Don Whitney (Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) - What should you look for in a good fountain pen?These are just some of the interviews that await you in this episode. So, what are you waiting for? Listen now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Together for the Gospel began as the brainchild of preachers Mark Dever, C.J. Mahaney, Albert Mohler and Ligon Duncan. Since 2006 T4G has been a cross-denominational conference featuring expository preaching, phenomenal singing and tons of free books, all from a Reformed perspective, attracting over 10,000 people. This year was the first year I was able to attend thanks to a free ticket that came my way. In appreciation of this, I recorded three different episodes focused on the conference. In this first episode I chatted with my travel buddy, Pastor Jeremy Scott of the Memorial Baptist Church in Verona, WI. We chatted about conferences in the past (Jeremy has been to all of them since 2008), what we were expected and then wrapped things up talking about the celebrity preacher culture and the importance of the local church. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this post-Easter episode Pastor Phil Allen (Daystar Christian Fellowship) and I chat about the price Christ paid for our sins. We even get into controversial issues such as the Reformed doctrine of limited atonement. But most importantly we emphasize this doctrine not merely as theological trivia but as a precious truth that ought to lead our hearts toward greater worship of Christ. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode features a sneak peak into a new book that has yet to officially come out - From Death to Life: How Salvation Works by Pastor Allen Nelson. Joining us to talk about the book and about salvation in general is the author. Allen Nelson is the pastor of the Second Baptist Church in Perryville, AR and host of the Rural Church Podcast. He also blogs at Things Above. As our conversation went a bit long, this will be part 1 of this interview. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Pastor Adam Meyer (pastor of the Beloit Family Worship Center) and I chat about the family as he and I both gear up for the third annual Real Life, Real Hope Community Strong Family Conference this upcoming weekend (23rd and 24th) at Rock County Christian School. Adam and I discuss Ephesians 5-6, the need for balance and even get into some touchy subjects some would rather us simply leave alone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast we welcome back Ray Jewell to continue our talk about the spiritual realm. Who or what are demons? This is a topic few want to discuss but we are going to go where angels fear to tread... Listen in as we slay some common myths and delve into the depths of Scripture to see just what the really truth is. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do angels really exist? Who are they and just what do they actually do? Do I have a guardian angel or will I one day become one? This week we welcome back Ray Jewell to chat about angels, an often misunderstood and sensationalized topic. So listen in as we jump head-first into the spiritual realm in the light of the Word of God. Maybe if you ring a bell while you listen I will finally get my wings! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The gospel of grace is a scandalous concept as it takes a child of hell and transforms him into a child of the King. It is in no way deserved and is not fair at all. It sets us free from the yoke of legalism but brings us there through the pathway of deep humility. This week on the podcast we will hear from someone who once rose up to a place of prominence among the Evangelical community but then sank into the depths of its judgment because of his own horrible sin. Yet, in the midst of this he came face-to-face with the grace of God he had taught for so long. It is my on honor to welcome a man whose writings have had a profound influence on me, Tullian Tchividjian. You can find out more about Tullian by checking out his blog at www.tullian.net. This is a program you will want to share with your friends! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Death is not an easy subject to address. The loss of loved one brings sorrow, confusion and a deep feeling of loss. As Christians, sometimes we struggle with the concept of feeling sad because we think that we must somehow always be happy in Jesus knowing everything is ultimately a part of God’s plan. This only serves to add guilt to grief. In this week’s episode Pastor Phil Allen of the Daystar Christian Fellowship and I chat about grief and sorrow from a Biblical perspective. I pray this will be comfort to you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Now that we are already in February, how is that Bible reading plan you started at the beginning of the year going? Many Christians find the disciplines of Bible reading and prayer to be tedious at times and find themselves discouraged. This week on the podcast we've invited Dr. Don Whitney, Professor of Biblical Spirituality at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is also the founder and president of the Center for Biblical Spirituality and author of the book, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life. Unfortunately due to a recording error on my part, Dr. Whitney has a terrible echo whenever he speaks. I would like to send a special thanks to the fine folks at Resonate Recordings who tried their best to reduce that echo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Church may seem like a natural part of the life of the believer, but as our culture becomes more and more individualized so have began to question the need for the weekly assembly. We can read Scripture on our own and certainly you can find good preaching all over the internet and even on podcasts such as this. So, why do we need the church and what part should it play in the our spiritual lives? To answer these questions and more we are joined by Jess Miller, pastor of the Calvary Bible Church of Grand Junction, CO. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perhaps this podcast could be better labeled, the "Lost Episode." Last year Ray Jewell and I sat down to record an episode about discipleship. That one episode quickly turned into three before we knew as the conversation just kept going and we were having a blast doing it. However, that third episode never aired. The reason is because for somehow part of the recording was actually lost. I'm still now sure what happened. But, some of you have been asking about it so I decided to take what I did have and add a few comments, and thus we have episode 19. So, in this final segment about discipleship, Ray share a few thoughts on how to apply this practically and then I wrap things up with a few book recommendations.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For some the idea of worship conjures up images of raised hands, a great guitar riff or maybe an old, out-of-tune organ cranking out some of the great hymns of the faith. But, as we will see in this week’s episode, worship is not limited to a style of music but also describes a life lived in response to the greatness of God. This week’s guest is Josh Calhoun, the Student Ministry Director at Central Christian Church in Beloit, WI. Yet, if you are familiar with Josh, it is probably because he is a member of the Christian band Citizen Way. I know I say this every week, but you won’t want to miss this episode. I had a ton of fun chatting with Josh and I know it will be worth your time to listen.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

II Corinthians 10:5 explains that “We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.” On this episode we will be talking about presuppositional apologetics, a defense of the Christian faith that seeks to tear down objections and uphold the Word of God.  We are honored to have Dr. John Frame on the program this week to discuss this topic with us. Dr. Frame serves as J.D. Trimble Chair of Systematic Theology and Philosophy at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Happy New Year from the Basic Bible Podcast! As many people reflect on their New Year’s resolutions today, we’re going to be focusing on the resolutions of perhaps the greatest theologian born in America, Jonathan Edwards. When Edwards was just 19 years old, he sat out to write a list of guiding principles that would give direction to his life. If you know anything about Edwards, you know he was passionate for God and resolutions show us just that. To discuss this with us is Pastor Steven Dresen of Cedar Hill Baptist Church in East Brewton, AL. A special thanks is due to Pastor Dresen as he was a last minute fill-in for a guest that had to cancel and then patiently put up with a few recording/internet troubles I was having. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is our special Christmas edition released on Christmas Eve! In this podcast, Dr. Philip Allen and I chat about the Incarnation. We'll take a look at John 1, Philippians 2 and even the Garden-Temple in Genesis 1-3 comparing that with the great truths of Hebrews 4 and Revelation 21 in a very practical way. Our conversation turns towards Christ's great humility and see the drama of redemption unfolding before us. There really is a reason to celebrate this season!   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a rough week of illness and trips to urgent care, the podcast is back! This we week take a look at the Jewish festival of Hanukkah through a Christian perspective. Joining me is Evangelist Mark Sohmer, himself a Jew who has embraced Christianity (You'll hear that testimony). We chat about what the celebration is all about along with a discussion of John 10 and Isaiah 53.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Theology and Thanksgiving – they don’t seem to go together. In fact, it seems like a combination that might ruin a perfectly good family dinner. Yet, when we contemplate what thanksgiving really is, we cannot help but dip into some theology. Or perhaps the difficulties of your life are keeping from giving thanks. In that case a turn back to theology could be just thing to get our eyes back on the goodness of God. Joining us to talk about all of that is Cory Williams, campus pastor of Central Christian Church in Machesney Park, IL. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How is it that false teaching creeps into the church? Why is that seemingly solid Christians fall prey to doctrine that contradicts the Word they claim to love? This week on the podcast we’ll be talking about the importance of and development of Biblical discernment. Joining us is the host of the popular radio program Iron Sharpens Iron, Chris Arnzen.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Great Commission forces us out the door to spread the gospel throughout the entire world. Yet, sometimes we forget that evangelism alone is only doing half the task. In reality, conversion is just the beginning. We must be about the business of making disciples. What does this mean and what does this look like? Joining us for this three part conversation is Ray Jewell who you may remember from our introduction episode. Ray has experience as a pastor, teacher and author. You won’t want to miss this lively, passionate and sometimes humorous conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last week we discussed the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. But the story doesn’t end with Luther and Germany. The Reformation would spread throughout Europe and into England with men like Thomas Cramner and William Tyndale. As more men began to read the Scriptures for themselves the truth began to shine clearly once again. We are once again joined by Dr. Brain Hanson of Bethlehem College and Seminary to delve in a little deeper into his research on the topic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Perhaps you've noticed all the talk about the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation this year. It was on October 31, 1517 that Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the church in Wittenberg, Germany thus sparking a great movement away from the the Catholic Church and back to a Biblical understanding of grace and the gospel. But why are we still talking about it now? What was so special about it? On the program this week is Dr. Brian Hansen, an incredible scholar who is the Assistant Professor of Humanities and Theology at Bethlehem College and Seminary. He has done a great amount of study specifically in regards to the Reformation while working on his doctorate at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here we are right in the middle of Pastor Appreciation Month, so what better subject to tackle than the pastorate? What is the Biblical role of the pastor? Some people have the mistaken idea that the pastor only works one day a week while others on the opposite end of the spectrum think he is the only one in the church qualified to do the work of the ministry. Joining us to dispel these myths and open the Scriptures with us is Pastor James White of the Lighthouse Community Church in Vernon, Alabama. He is also the host of the Everyday Ministry Podcast. So, if you really want to appreciate your pastor, listen in and find out just a little bit of the weight he carries.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You're saved, but now what? How does one grow in the faith? We know that Christ changes us from the inside out, but what does that actually mean? What if I'm not growing enough or not as much as other believers I know? We will talk about these questions and more as we discuss the doctrine of sanctification. We're joined this week by Dr. Philip Allen the pastor Daystar Christian Fellowship of South Beloit, IL.   Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the episode we've all been waiting for - or at least we're addressing the concept all Christians are longing for - glorification. We, along with all of creation, long to see the day when sin is no more and redemption is complete. This is not only our end goal, but also the end of our series on Romans 8:30. Pastor Aaron White of the River Hills Community Church in Janesville, WI joins one last time to wrap things up. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If there ever was an episode of the Basic Bible Podcast to listen to, this is it. This week we talk about the doctrine of justification. How does a wicked sinner stand before a holy God? According to Martin Luther, this doctrine is the article by which the church stands and falls. Just how important is it to confess justification by faith alone? Once again, Pastor Pastor Aaron White of the River Hills Community Church in Janesville, WI joins us as we continue to look at Romans 8:30. Make sure to share this conversation with your friends!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we welcome back Pastor Aaron White of the River Hills Community Church in Janesville, WI. He’s joining us as we explore the depths of Romans 8:30. Last week we chatted about predestination; this week we’ll be talking about the concept of calling. How does God call people to Himself? We also explore the question of why should we engage in personal evangelism if it is truly God who draws men in salvation. You won’t want to miss out on this episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the very first episode of the Basic Bible Podcast. We are kicking things off with a four-week look at Romans 8:30. If you are familiar with this verse you'll realize our first podcast will be on the controversial subject of predestination. But, before you tune us out, give us a chance. We'll explore what the Bible really has to say about a subject many people misunderstand. Joining us is Pastor Aaron White of the River Hills Community Church in Janesville, WI. Currently Pastor Aaron is preaching through the book of Romans and recent finished covering chapter 8. So instead of being controversial, our goal is simply to take this verse in its context and let you know what the Word of God actually says. I hope you'll listen and share this with your friends! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello and welcome to the Basic Bible Podcast where we seek to move theology from the classroom to the living room. That’s the right, the goal of this podcast is to bring the complex down to the manageable. Some fear terms like theology and doctrine because they conjure up images of division, debate or even over-your-head scholarship that his little to do with the everyday life of the Christian. I hope as you tune in each week you’ll discover that theology is intensely practical and actually lies at the heart of a healthy relationship with Christ. It’s not merely academic nonsense but, if done right, should bolster our love for Jesus. In this short introduction episode, my friend Ray Jewel happened to drop by so we chatted a few minutes about this idea. I'll have full episodes posted in a few short weeks. I hope this will have you wanting to hear more... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.