With no public buildings, 1st-century Catholics met in “house churches”. What were they like?

We’re all in “the relationship business.” So was St Paul. His friendship and confidence helped others find the ultimate friend in Jesus.  

Were there women deacons in the early Church? Some say Paul mentions this in Romans. Listen in to find out!

Did St Paul consider himself a priest? And: why the last impression is the lasting impression. 

Discover how Jesus is the “Root of Jesse”. Plus: why you can’t have God as your Father without the Church as your Mother.

In humility, Jesus freely gave up his “rights” to serve others. So should we. Plus: the mystery Psalm that prophesied about the Christ. 

Don’t be a “blockhead” — a stumbling block for others, that is, by what you say and do.

How God sculpts us into the image of Jesus interiorly (in our character) and, one day, exteriorly (when we receive our resurrected bodies). 

Are we ever permitted to judge our fellow believers? If so, about what?

Orthodoxy (right belief) is not enough. We also need orthopraxis (right conduct) and orthokardia (a right heart). 

Living the Great Commandment and practicing the Great Commission make a great Church!

Can Catholics take vengeance on their enemies? Should they obey government authorities?

In the ‘70s, Boston sang “More Than a Feeling.” They’re right! St Paul talks about exactly how to love God and people. 

Most communication takes place through body language. That’s no less true for the Mystical Body of Christ, the Church, as we communicate Christ via our spiritual gifts. 

Theology of the Body in Romans: All religion involves sacrifice, and true spirituality is offering our bodies as a “living sacrifice.”

God’s plan is beyond us, best for us, and beautiful. Plus: was St Paul a Stoic, like Marcus Aurelius?

Today’s Q&A is on the Bible’s “Night of the Living Dead”: the Old Testament saints who came back to life when Jesus died!

Cale looks at how the Gospel of Luke has a unique focus on the marginalized in society. 

St Paul sets up a “love triangle” of sorts, and a Q&A on whether or not it’s biblical to pray to the saints. 

God always preserves a “faithful remnant” of his people. Discover Pope Benedict’s prophecy: the Church might have to get smaller to grow stronger. 

St Paul hopes a “holy jealousy” brings his compatriots to Christ. And: Who was Jezebel, the baddest “bad girl of the Bible”?  

Are you “saved”? Is just “believing” in Jesus enough? Plus: What did Jesus eat in a day? Lots of food for thought!

Religious zeal is good — as long as you’re zealous about the right thing. Plus: The mysterious “Todah” sacrifice and the Mass.

Discover how Jesus is the end (the goal) of the entire Old Testament law.

What, exactly, is the Bible? How should we understand it? Answering these fundamental questions will allow us to better read and understand the Scriptures. 

God is the potter, we are the clay. No matter what mistakes we’ve made, the Lord can refashion our lives. 

Does God harden people’s hearts, or do they harden their own hearts against him? And: what does Eminem have in common with St Paul? Let’s rap! 

Just as walking into McDonald’s doesn’t make you a hamburger, simply belonging to Israel — or the Catholic Church — is not enough. And: a Q&A about Jesus and the Talmud. 

Is praying to Mary biblical? Is the rosary just vain repetition, the kind of prayer that Jesus criticizes in Matthew chapter 6:7-8? In this episode, Cale offers an in-depth look at Catholic devotion to Mary, rooted in the Bible and in history. 

What happened to the “lost tribes of Israel”? And why the New Testament is NOT ant-Semitic.

What’s God’s plan for Israel in the Church age? For St Paul, it’s personal. Plus: a Q&A about Good Friday do’s, don’ts, and maybes. 

In this conclusion of his series on the Lord's Prayer, the Our Father, Cale talks about how evil and sin, should we be so unfortunate to fall into it, can never overcome us in the spiritual life. 

In this continuation of his discussion on the Our Father, Cale looks at the question of why God allows trials and temptations into our lives. If He knows how weak we are, what's the point? Cale discusses this and more on this episode of the Faith Explained.

In this continuation of Cale's discussion on the Our Father, he talks about the final temptation of Christ in the wilderness, and it's the most insidious of all of them. The devil takes Jesus to a very high mountain, and shows him all of the kingdoms of the world. He says, all of these I will give you. But there's a catch. Cale talks about this and more on this episode of the Faith Explained.

In Cale's continued discussion on the Our Father, he talks about how "Deliver us from evil" is actually better translated to "deliver us from the evil one." When Satan tried to tempt Jesus in the wilderness, he tried to quote scripture, but he was misquoting it.

Cale continues to discuss the Our Father. "Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." Is it evil in general or is it the evil one in particular, the devil? Cale uses the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness to show this, because the wilderness was the playground  of demons and evil spirits

Cale continues to discuss the Our Father. Does the prayer really say "Lead us not into temptation"? Cale talks about this and more on today's edition of the Faith Explained on Relevant Radio and the Relevant Radio App.

Cale continues his discussion on the Our Father. He takes a look at the fifth petition - "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." Jesus says that if you don't forgive those who sin against you, God will not forgive your sins. Cale discusses this and much more on this episode of The Faith Explained.

Cale continues his discussion on the Lord's prayer, The Our Father. There are a lot of non-Catholic groups who look at a particular verse in the Acts of the Apostles: "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship to the breaking of the bread, and the prayers." But what does that really mean? How do we know that the Catholic Church did that right. Cale discusses this and more on today's episode of The Faith Explained.

In this continuing discussion on the Our Father, Cale explains that there are two bad responses we need to be aware of when we pray "Thy will be done." These two are fatalism and scrupulosity.

Cale continues his series on the Lord's Prayer, The Our Father. In this episode, Cale takes a look at the seven petitions of the prayer. "Thy will be done," is very interesting. Is God's will ever not done? Only when we sin. Why has God allowed us to turn away from him?

Cale continues his look into the Lord's prayer. Did you know that the Our Father is based off an ancient Jewish prayer, The Kaddish?  Jesus expands the prayer and makes it much different. Cale also answers the question of why we pray to when God already knows our needs in the first place.

Cale continues his series on the Lord's Prayer, the Our Father. One of the things about our Father, is that He is in heaven. But where is heaven and what does it look like? Cale explains how heaven isn't just some faraway place. It's actually all around us.

Cale continues to take a look at Jesus' teaching on the fatherhood of God as expressed in the Lord's Prayer. He looks at the four elements of being a good father which are true of Divine Fatherhood, and human fatherhood as well.

Cale looks at the 'Our Father' prayer, breaking down word by word the meaning of this ancient prayer. What are the origins of this prayer? 

During the Octave before Christmas, the Church deepens her faith in the coming Messiah by praying the famous “O Antiphons”. But, what are they? “O”, not to worry — Cale will explain! 

During the Octave before Christmas, the Church deepens her faith in the coming Messiah by praying the famous “O Antiphons”. But, what are they? “O”, not to worry — Cale will explain! Plus: in our Q&A segment: have you ever wondered how the State of Maryland got its name? Does it have something to do with the Blessed Virgin Mary? Well…kinda! It’s an incredible true story. Tune in to find out! 

If we’re going to have a Happy (Church) New Year this Advent, we need to know the reason for THIS season. Plus: What happened to the dead before the “advent” of Christ?

Have you ever wondered why Jesus did not begin His public ministry until He was 30 years old? In this episode of The Faith Explained, Cale unpacks this question from a listener, Joe. If you have a question you would like to send Cale, you can do so at this email address: faith@relevantradio.com

Did Jesus claim to be the Messiah during his public ministry? Did he ever intimate that he was more than a prophet?

Cale looks at the military campaigns of Judas Maccabeus and the rededication of the temple. When was Jesus born – was it really toward the end of December?

How God sculpts us into the image of Jesus interiorly (in our character) and, one day, exteriorly (when we receive our resurrected bodies). 

How St Paul’s letter to the Romans helped a believer escape a Communist dungeon. Plus: the most misunderstood verse in Romans — and in the entire Bible itself. 

Saved in hope (“Spe Salvi”): if we know our “why”, we can endure any “how”…no matter how much suffering we face.

You’ve heard of the “Four Last Things”: Death, Judgment, Heaven, and Hell. But, did you know there’s a 5th? And, no, it’s not Purgatory. Tune in to find out!

In just one verse, St Paul demolishes the “Health and Wealth Gospel”. And in our Q&A: should Catholics embrace the concept of retirement?

Paul mentions the Holy Spirit 18x in Romans 8! Maybe, just maybe, we need His help. Plus: a Q&A on reincarnation. 

“The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” If even Saint Paul struggled to do the right thing, you’d better believe you and I have to fight, too. Plus: a Q and A on déjà vu (and, no, this show hasn’t happened before). 

Ever heard someone say the body (or the material world) is evil, and only the “spiritual” is good? Not true! It’s all a misunderstanding of St. Paul. 

In the New Exodus, we’re not escaping slavery to Pharaoh and his army, but Satan, his demons, and slavery to sin.  

Did you know that every time you witness a baptism, you’re witnessing a death? And: why our bodies need to be “weapons of righteousness”.

We know we’ve been made “in the image and likeness” of God. But what does this mean? And which one of these two was lost due to Original Sin?

G.K. Chesterton said Original Sin was the only Church teaching you can prove by walking down the street. St. Paul shows how Jesus is the new Adam, reversing the curse passed on by our first parents. 

Has a sincere non-Catholic ever asked you, “Have you been saved?” Unsure how to respond? St. Paul shows you how. 

Ever had a backstage pass? That’s nothing compared to the divine access we’ve been granted. Enter the throne room of the King of the Universe.

Without God, humanity inevitably turns first to idolatry, and then, to immorality. It’s the “bad news” of sin that makes the Good News of the Gospel so absolutely astonishing.

Paul shares his LinkedIn profile, and shares Jesus’ credentials, too, as he introduces his letter to Rome. Plus: a Q and A on those who are not yet Catholic and what they can — and can’t — say and do at Mass. 

Paul shows how the former pagan Abraham becomes the father of faith for all Jews and Gentiles in the Church. Plus: Who replaced Lucifer as the “music director” in Heaven?

Saint Paul brings out the “big guns”, the Old Covenant heroes Abraham and David, to back up his arguments.

After laying out the “bad news” of life without God, we get the “Good News”: the Gospel, according to Paul. Plus: a Q&A on mortal sin. 

Why Good Friday is the new “Day of Atonement”. And: how misreading of Romans led to the tragic division between Catholics and Protestants. 

The Anti-Theology of the Body: our bodies should praise God, but Paul shows that our bodies can, tragically, be “weapons of wickedness”. 

Ignorance is not bliss! Without God’s “owner’s manual” for life, the Commandments, you can’t discover truth, goodness, beauty, or love. 

St. Paul warns against religious hypocrisy, something that incensed Jesus during his earthly ministry.

G.I. Joe said, “Knowing is half the battle.” It’s not enough to know God’s will. It must be done. 

Membership (in the Church) has its privileges…and also its responsibilities. As Jesus said, “to whoever much has been given, much will be demanded.”

On the highway to Heaven, there are two dangerous ditches on either side: presumption (“God MUST forgive me”) and despair (“God CAN’T forgive me”).

Why do people hate God? It’s simple: if you’re busy worshiping an idol, the true and living God has to go.

St. Paul shows how rejecting God inexorably leads to immorality, especially in the realm of human sexuality.

Without God, humanity inevitably turns first to idolatry, and then, to immorality. It’s the “bad news” of sin that makes the Good News of the Gospel so absolutely astonishing. 

Without a map app, it’s easy to get lost. St. Paul gives us the “GPS coordinates” for his letter to the Romans, guiding our journey home to God.

Sometimes great sinners can become great saints. Shepherd, warrior, king, and ultimately a “man after God’s own heart”: it’s the life of King David.

Before Paul could write to the Romans, “In everything God works for good with those who love him”, he had to experience it himself, through many painful trials. 

St Paul’s prayers weren’t always answered right away, or how he wanted. This should comfort us, too. And: a Q&A on how Rome fulfilled Daniel’s prophecy about the “fourth beast”.

If we don’t practice obedience in our relations to others, how likely is it that we will obey God when he asks for it?

Want to draw down more graces from the Spirit? St. Thérèse says God gives 10 graces in exchange for just one of these…but, what is it?

God’s “general” will for all people should be obvious: the Ten Commandments, Scripture, and Church teaching come to mind. But what about God’s “particular” will for particular questions in your life? That’s where the inspirations of the Holy Spirit are key!

Pentecost marks the gift of God, the Holy Spirit. But in so many ways, he is “The Great Unknown”. Cale Clarke shares what Saint Faustina called a shortcut to holiness: being docile to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit.

Paul speaks of “the obedience of faith.” Many pit faith versus works, but Paul sides with Jesus, who said “the one who loves me will obey my commandments.”  

Paul shares his LinkedIn profile, and shares Jesus’ credentials, too, as he introduces his letter to Rome. Plus: a Q and A on those who are not yet Catholic and what they can — and can’t — say and do at Mass. 

The Faith Explained with Cale Clarke is a 30-minute show delving into the teachings of the Catholic faith. Cale looks at the Scriptures, the Catechism, and Sacred Tradition to present you with an in-depth look at what the Catholic Church believes. In listening to this show, you will not only gain a deeper understanding of the faith, but you will be inspired and equipped to share it with others – family, friends, and those you encounter in your everyday life. Catch up any time at relevantradio.com, the Relevant Radio app, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Why did Paul want to write to – and go to – Rome so badly? And: there never was a “golden age”, problem-free era in the Church, even in the beginning. What were the main problems Paul dealt with in the Roman Church? Plus: a Q&A about a “missing” verse about Mary in the Bible!

In this new series, Cale Clarke introduces you to St Paul’s Letter to the Romans, the most important letter of all time.

What was the original experience of man and woman that St John Paul II said was the “key” to understanding God’s plan? Why does the enemy want to “counterfeit” the sacraments, and marriage in particular? Cale deals with these questions and more in this final episode of the miniseries.

Today’s culture rails at the Bible’s view of sex and marriage. Is the Old Covenant hopelessly out of date? Is morality malleable? Let’s look back to the beginning — through Jesus’ eyes — to see God’s blueprint for relationships.

Given Old Testament violence, many wrongly believe the God of the Old Covenant is different from the God of Jesus Christ. 

Is God a “moral monster”, as one writer alleges when looking at the violence in the Old Testament? If God commands, “Thou shalt not kill”, then why all the killing in God’s name?

What’s the evidence OUTSIDE the Bible for the Exodus and Conquest of the Holy Land? You’ll just have to “stele” yourself for the results! Biblical minimalists, beware!

In this episode, Cale explains the rise of the “Minimalists” who question the historicity of Old Covenant events like the Exodus and the conquest of the promised land. Do their ideas hold any water? What’s at stake if they’re right?

Cale looks at which elements of modern evolutionary theory are compatible with Scripture and Catholic doctrine, and which are not — which is a separate question from whether or not evolution is the best scientific explanation for human origins.

Cale looks at the most famous objections to Jesus’ Resurrection, including the “stolen body theory”, the “swoon theory”, and the “hallucinations” theory. 

How did the Apostles turn from scaredy-cats to roaring lions? Why did the anti-Jesus Saul become the Apostle Paul? Only the Resurrection makes it all make sense.  Plus: Was Adam really buried under Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified?

Discover the powerful evidence for the resurrection appearances of Jesus. Plus: a Q and A on “soul sleep”.

Why is it important that Jesus’ death and resurrection occurred in Jerusalem? Why is it crucial that women were the first to encounter the risen Jesus? Plus: a Q and A on unicorns in the Bible! 

Cale authenticates the death of Jesus and the reality of the empty tomb on Easter Sunday. Learn about the “5 Minimal Facts” scholars agree on regarding Easter — whether they are believers or not!  

Did Jesus really rise from the dead? If it didn’t happen, St Paul says “our preaching is useless, and so is your faith.” So, what’s the evidence? Let’s investigate the greatest comeback of all time! 

You may have been taught, “Don’t believe what people say they believe. Watch what they actually do.” Behavior reveals what people truly believe. And what the early Church actually did was worship Jesus as God — an earth-shattering development in a monotheistic environment. 

The divinity of Christ wasn’t “invented” by the Church at Nicea, nor was it a product of the Resurrection at Easter. Jesus revealed it during his earthly ministry! Plus: a Q and A about the mysterious Liturgy of the Hours! 

What do the miracles of Jesus actually prove about him? Plus: a listener question on why Jesus and Lucifer are both called the “Morning Star” in the Bible. What gives?

Did Jesus really do miracles, or were ancient peoples just really gullible? Is there any evidence for miracles today? 

Skeptics zero in on why Jesus' family history is different in Matthew's Gospel than in Luke's. But this isn't sloppy research; it's all by design. 

Did Herod really kill the “Holy Innocents”? No history book mentions it. Same with Luke’s Census that forces the Holy Family to Bethlehem. Are these real events? Plus: was Jesus really born in a cave?

Born of a Virgin. Attended by angels. A fantastic, movable star. How can we believe this stuff? Plus: Why taking God’s name is such a common, but deadly serious sin.

What do the mysterious Dead Sea Scrolls have to do with Jesus? Did the town of Nazareth really exist? And, a curious listener question…could Jesus and his disciples read and write? You’ll be surprised why this matters!

Cale relates what he saw with his own eyes: the 2,000-year-old bones of a man crucified under Pontius Pilate…and, no, they don’t belong to Jesus! Plus: the bone-box of James, the relative of Jesus.

What are the “Great 8” archaeological discoveries that shed light on Jesus and his world? Grab your shovel, and let’s dig in!

A famous, decorated scholar claims there are up to 400,000 differences between the New Testament manuscripts that have been discovered. Has the Bible been forged? Has Jesus been misquoted?

A recent novel claimed there were as many as 80 “Gospels” written about Jesus! Is this true? Why, then, are there only four Gospels in your Bible? Is there something about Jesus the Church doesn’t want you to know?

Just how many eyewitnesses to Jesus’ life and ministry were still around when the Gospels were written? And, could they still be trusted to remember what really happened? And, who really wrote the Gospels, anyway?

Did the Gospel writers accurately record what Jesus really said? Without smartphones or cameras in Jesus’ time, how can we be sure that we’ve captured Jesus’ true teaching? It’s a “red-letter edition” of The Faith Explained!

Did Jesus break clean with the Old Covenant religion of his day, railing against its “legalism” and focusing instead entirely on God’s mercy and love? Learn how the Bible shows that Jesus was in no way opposed to the law given to Moses.

The Roman Emperor was the most powerful figure on earth. Called the “divine” Son of God, his victories were “Good News”. So, why should you entrust your life to the most powerLESS man on earth (or so it seemed), crucified as a common criminal? 

Cale takes you to Magdala, the most beautiful town in the Galilee. You’ll meet Mary Magdalene, out of whom Jesus cast seven demons, and you’ll discover the two grave mistakes we can make when it comes to fighting evil supernatural forces that threaten our lives.

Why was Jesus baptized into the waters of death? Why are we baptized? Because the letters before our name (not after) are what count: “St”. Plus: a tour of Jesus’ “home base” in Capernaum, and a peek into Peter's house.

Cale’s tour of “Jesus’ Places” continues, with a dramatic visit to the theater in Sepphoris. Jesus witnessed “play-actors” (hypocrites) there, and warns us about the tragedy of an insincere faith.

As we explore “Jesus’ Places”, Cale pays a visit to Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth and the big city next door, where we meet “God’s Grandparents”.

The best evidence is from a hostile witness. Cale shows how ancient, anti-Christian writers confirm the existence of Jesus, and much of what we know about him. Plus: evidence for the Mass of the early Church.

In this new series, Cale explains why it matters so much to know not only what we believe about Jesus, but why we believe it. Plus: how do we know Jesus really existed?

Jesus’ claim that “no one comes to the Father except through me” grates on some modern ears. Is it true? Plus: a Q and A about Catholic teaching on IVF.

1 Corinthians 16:21-24. Did St. Paul have eye issues?  Cale looks at three things necessary to receive the Eucharist. Why does St. Paul use Aramaic at one point?

1 Corinthians 16:13-20. What is authority in the Church all about? Who are the people St. Paul mentions at the end of the letter? What is the significance of ‘greeting one another with a holy kiss’?

1 Corinthians 16:5-12. St. Paul makes travel plans based on evangelization. What was Pentecost before the Holy Spirit was given? Why did some people look down on Timothy?

1 Corinthians 16:1-4. How are we to live generously? Why is St. Paul taking a collection to Jerusalem? What does it look like to let Jesus be in control of our finances?

1 Corinthians 15:55-58. Why did God ask the prophet Hosea to marry a prostitute? How did death enter the world? What hope do we have when we die?

<iframe src="https://omny.fm/shows/the-faith-explained-with-cale-clarke-learning-the/where-is-purgatory-in-the-bible-special-podcast-hi/embed?style=artwork" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write" width="100%" height="180" frameborder="0" title="Where is Purgatory in the Bible? (Special Podcast Highlight)"></iframe> Have you ever been asked by a non-Catholic as to where Purgatory is mentioned in the Bible? Maybe you felt flustered and didn't know how to respond. In this episode of The Faith Explained, Cale Clarke discusses the relationship between a passage from 1 Corinthians Chapter 3 and the concept of Purgatory. Cale explores how the verse, which talks about testing one's work through fire and being saved as through fire, suggests purification after death. Cale addresses counterarguments from Protestants and explains that while the term "Purgatory" may not be explicitly mentioned, the concept of purification is still present in the text.  Purgatory is a state where individuals are cleansed and made holier before entering heaven, and it's not a second chance after death but a process of final purification. This episode is a great reminder that we are all called to be saints and that we should strive for holiness while on earth so that we don't need Purgatory after death. 

1 Corinthians 15:50-57. What will happen to people who are still alive when Jesus returns? How are they resurrected?

1 Corinthians 15:42-57. In 1 Corinthians 15:50 St. Paul writes that, “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God”. Doesn’t this verse contradict a physical resurrection of the body?  How can you be more conformed to Christ?

1 Corinthians 15:35-49. What will our resurrected bodies be like? What does it mean to have a “spiritual body”? Cale shares an important word that is often mistranslated and has caused confusion over the meaning of this text.

1 Corinthians 15:30-34. The Corinthians have been partying hard and St. Paul has to exhort them on not giving in to the temptations around them. What does this mean for you today?

Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 3:10-15. Is this text a reference to Purgatory? What is the Church built upon? Where does God want to be worshiped? Cale looks at these questions and more in this new episode in the series “Saints in Sin City”, a deep dive into 1 Corinthians.

Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 3:1 – 3:17. What does it really mean to have the mind of Christ? Did you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit? What is your foundation?

Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 2:10 – 3:3. What does it mean to have the mind of Christ? What is true spirituality?

Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 2:6 – 3:4. What is Gnosticism? What is true wisdom? Is St. Paul referencing heaven when he cites an Old Testament text; “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him,” ( 1 Cor. 2:9)? Or is he referring to something else? 

Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 1:26-2:5. All is grace. St. Paul references the prophet Jeremiah in this section of the letter. Why? How important is reading the Old Testament for understanding the New Testament? Cale gives three applications of this text for your life today.

Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 1:18-31. St. Paul cites Old Testament texts and shows how the wisdom of God is unlike human wisdom. What kind of signs were the Jews looking for in Jesus’ day to see who was the Messiah?

Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 1:10-17.  St. Paul hears that there are factions and personality cults growing in the Christian community in Corinth. What was his response? Is the Church a barrier to a personal relationship with Jesus? Cale looks at this and more on this episode in the series “Saints in Sin City” a Bible study on 1 Corinthians.

Cale looks at 1 Corinthians 1:1-9. The opening lines contain some deep insights that set the tone for the rest of the letter. Cale looks at the themes of grace,  apocalypse, fellowship that emerge in the “thanksgiving” section of the letter.

Who made up the Christian community in Corinth? Cale looks at the major themes that appear in the letter, including marriage, the human body, social behavior, love, and leadership. Cale also looks at 1 Corinthians 1:1-3.

Cale looks at the history of the city of Corinth. What are the Isthmian games? What was the social scene? Why did St. Paul write this letter? What was the Christian community like in Corinth?

The famous “Lukewarm Laodiceans” of the Book of Revelation. It’s the last of the 7 letters of Jesus to the 7 churches — and the most powerful message for Catholics in the West.

What is the “key of David” and what does it reveal about Jesus, as well as the papacy? And what does it mean to be a pillar in the temple of God? Plus, Jesus commended the Philadelphians and did not rebuke them for anything. Tune in to hear Cale explain on TFE.

The message that Jesus had for Sardis applies to us today – to you. Temptations abound in this life, but we must remain vigilant. Cale unpacks this letter on this episode of TFE.

Who is “Jezebel”? What, or rather, who, is the “Morning Star”? What Jesus had to say to the Christian communities in the first century He has to say to you, too. Cale explains on this episode of TFE.

What is the “hidden manna” referred to in Revelation 2:17? And what is the “white stone”? Plus, the importance of remaining faithful to God even when faced with temptations and trials.

Continuing the series, “Letters From Heaven”, Cale addresses the ten days of persecution mentioned to Smyrna, as well as what is meant by “the crown of life”. He also discusses the letter to the Church in Pergamum and the importance of staying faithful to the teaching of Christ.

In this letter, Jesus encourages the persecuted Church. Did you know that some of the early Christians were called “Atheists” by the Romans? Why? Plus, Cale shares the remarkable story of the martyrdom of St. Polycarp of Smyrna. And, what is the “synagogue of Satan” referred to in the text?

Who are the Nicolaitans? And why does the Lord commend the church in Ephesus for hating their practices? Plus, Cale gives an in-depth look at the city of Ephesus during the time this letter was written.

In the Book of Revelation, we see today Jesus Himself address seven churches. In this episode we look at what Jesus says to the Church in Ephesus — and what the Lord has to say to you, too.

Did you know that the “first gospel” is in Genesis 3? What do the consequences of the original sin mean for men and women? Adam and Eve robed in garments of light? Cale breaks this down and shows how from the beginning God has had a plan to redeem His people.

What is lust? How does Jesus help us overcome this temptation? Cale unpacks the difference between lust and love by looking at Genesis 3. Cale also looks at how God sending Jesus to redeem us was not His backup plan but was the plan from the very beginning.

What is lust? How does Jesus help us overcome this temptation? Cale unpacks the difference between lust and love by looking at Genesis 3. Cale also looks at how God sending Jesus to redeem us was not His backup plan but was the plan from the very beginning.

Were things perfect in creation before the Fall? Why didn’t God allow Adam and Eve to eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil? Drawing on the work of St. Irenaeus, Cale presents how the early Church viewed Genesis 3 and how what happens is really our story.

Cale looks at Genesis 3:1-12 and discusses the concept of sin, the deception of the serpent, and the salvation God provides.   Book: “In the Beginning… A Catholic Understanding of the Story of Creation and the Fall” by Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI): https://www.amazon.com/Beginning-Catholic-Understanding-Ressourcement-Retrieval/dp/0802841066

Is work a punishment for sin? Cale explains why this is not the case, and the sanctity that can come from work – any type of work. What does a priest do? And what is the significance of the priestly garments in the Old Testament? There are some amazing connections between the structure of the Temple in Jerusalem and Jesus’s death on the cross.

What was it like to be human before sin entered the world? Drawing on St. John Paul II’s insights in the “Theology of the Body”, Cale discusses the relationship between Adam and Eve ‘in the beginning’. Topics include: original solitude original unity original nakedness the meaning of life love

What is the tree of life referred to in Genesis 2? What’s the connection to wisdom? Cale addresses these questions, as well as the importance of Adam having a wife.

The 5th part in a series titled, "The Genesis of Creation" Is evolution compatible with the Catholic faith? If it is, what does it mean theologically? Cale looks at the creation of human beings in Genesis 2 and addresses these questions. Other topics: The difference between macroevolution and microevolution The Hebrew word for ‘dust’ Why did Jesus keep His wounds after the resurrection? The geographical location of Eden

The 4th part in a series titled, "The Genesis of Creation" How can you enter into God’s rest? What does resting in God really mean? Cale looks at Genesis 2:1-25 and answers these questions plus more!

Cale explains why we could trust the Bible and debunks myths against the Old Testament.  King David is also discussed as Cale talks about how he’s much more than just a local chief, using archaeology as evidence

The 3rd part in a series titled, "The Genesis of Creation" God had a plan when he created the world – and He has a plan for you, too. Cale explains how creation is a cosmic temple and what this reveals about God. Other topics: Hebrew names for God The nature of God as a Trinity All of creation is good If you have a question for Cale, you can email faith@relevantradio.com.

The 2nd part in a series titled, "The Genesis of Creation" What does it mean that the earth was formless and void? What does Genesis 1 tell us about God? Are you living a life of order? Cale looks at Genesis 1:1 – 2:3 and addresses these questions, plus: God being separate from creation Parallels between Genesis 1 and John 1 Two important things to know about human beings made in the image and likeness of God The Sabbath If you have a question for Cale, you can send him an email at faith@relevantradio.com

This is the first episode of a miniseries about Creation in the Book of Genesis What type of literature is the Book of Genesis? How should we read this ancient text? What is its relationship with modern science? Cale addresses these questions and more in this inaugural episode of the new series on the Book of Genesis.

Matchmaker: Pascal in the end reveals himself as a lover of God, who wants others to meet--and fall in love with--Love, personified.

How to respond when someone says, "this isn't REAL trust or love of God.  It's just a way to avoid Hell."

In his classic argument for betting your life (and afterlife!) on God or against God, Blaise Pascal shows that you can't "cop out" by trying to stay agnostic as a third option. 

Pope Francis wrote a letter to the Church about Blaise Pascal. How can we understand his most famous argument for staking your life on God? “You bet your life”, indeed!   Night of Fire https://omny.fm/shows/the-cale-clarke-show-todays-issues-from-a-catholic/night-of-fire Burning Bridges https://omny.fm/shows/the-cale-clarke-show-todays-issues-from-a-catholic/burning-bridges          

Is praying to Mary biblical? Is the rosary just vain repetition, the kind of prayer that Jesus criticizes in Matthew 6:7-8? In this episode, Cale offers an in-depth look at Catholic devotion to Mary, rooted in the Bible and in history.

Part 2/2 in which Cale continues to unpack the top 10 places in Sacred Scripture that point to the divinity of Christ.

Have you ever heard someone say that Jesus never claimed to be God? Cale looks at passages in Sacred Scripture that make clear that Jesus is, in fact, God.

Why are we responsible for Adam and Eve’s sin? What is original sin? Why can’t angels repent? Is evolution compatible with Catholicism? Why do Catholics baptize infants?

When we are at our most alone, hurting, and vulnerable, Christ is there. Plus: a Q and A on the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

How can the Spirit help those called to marriage achieve “a more perfect union” amidst all threats from without and within? Plus: a Q&A about the Mass wine controversy.

Confession has been called “a second baptism.” But there’s no Confession without a priest, and no priesthood without the Holy Spirit.

We believe in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. But don’t forget about the Holy Spirit’s true presence in the Mass, making it happen!

Ever wish you could be forever young? Or fast-forward to eternal life? With baptism, you can! Find out how the waters of baptism lead you back to the source of life in the Spirit, and the life of the future Kingdom, now.

Cale Clarke receives a question from a listener named Alan about whether the devil knew that Jesus was God during the temptation in the Gospel. Cale explains that it is not as clear-cut as people assume. He references an article by John Cavallini from Notre Dame, who discusses the idea that the devil may not have known about Jesus' divinity. Cale quotes Origen, an early church writer, who said that Mary's virginity went unnoticed by the ruler of this age (referring to the devil) because of her marriage to Joseph. This implies that the devil may have thought Jesus was simply their natural child. Cale connects this idea with a passage from St. Paul's writings, suggesting that the wisdom of God's plan, including the marriage of Mary and Joseph, was hidden from the rulers and evil spirits of the age. Origen suggests that the devil did not know Jesus' true identity during the temptation, and Jesus did not explicitly reveal it. Cale concludes that Jesus chose to wrestle with and conquer temptation rather than relying on his divine rank and identity. The flight to Egypt, which was part of Jesus' life, further supports the mystery of the incarnation and shows that God does not always exert His power directly. 

If we receive the Holy Spirit in Baptism, why do we need Confirmation?  The answer might surprise you! 

What’s the difference between the “fruits” and the “gifts” of the Holy Spirit? How does God make use of (sometimes adverse) circumstances to make us more supernaturally fruitful?

Cale will answer this question and offer more ways we can tell an inspiration is from God the Holy Spirit.

This is THE question: how can you know if an inspiration comes from the Holy Spirit, from yourself, or from the Devil?

Cale Clarke shares 10 ways to get into “God’s orbit” and receive the Spirit’s inspirations for you!

If we don’t practice obedience in our relations to others, how likely is it that we will obey God when he asks for it?

Want to draw down more graces from the Spirit? St. Thérèse says God gives 10 graces in exchange for just one of these…but, what is it?

God’s “general” will for all people should be obvious: the Ten Commandments, Scripture, and Church teaching come to mind. But what about God’s “particular” will for particular questions in your life? That’s where the inspirations of the Holy Spirit are key!

Pentecost marks the gift of God, the Holy Spirit. But in so many ways, he is “The Great Unknown”. Cale Clarke shares what Saint Faustina called a shortcut to holiness: being docile to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit.

The sacrament of marriage is powerful. The Enemy is bent on destroying it. Cale shares more Theology of the Body and why marriage is the “prototype’ of all the sacraments.

Reading the creation narratives in Genesis with St. John Paul II: What is the Theology of the Body? Cale explains the importance of the physical human body and what this means as a follower of Jesus Christ.

Our series concludes with a look at the First Letter of Peter. Did Peter himself even write this? If so, does Peter really say that he’s “no big deal”, and that he has no more authority than any other apostle or bishop?

St Paul rebukes St Peter. In public! Was Peter wrong? Yes. Does this mean the papacy, or papal infallibility, for that matter, isn’t true? Not a chance. Listen in to find out why!

St Paul visits St Peter for 15 days soon after his conversion. Why? Not only for Paul to get caught up on what Jesus’ earthly life was like, but to show deference and to submit to Pope Peter’s leadership of the Church.

The Acts of the Apostles, the Bible’s early Church history book, shows how St Peter was the undisputed leader of the early Church, and presided over the “Council of Jerusalem”.

Jesus, Peter, and a net full of 153 fish. What does it mean? Plus: the poignant threefold restoration of Peter as chief shepherd over a charcoal fire. It’s John 21.

Jesus the Good Shepherd wants his Church as one flock, with one shepherd. The visible unity of the Catholic Church is a sign to the world of the truth of the Gospel. Truly, sometimes people “have to see it to believe it”.

Explore Matthew 16 with @CaleClarke as he shows why Jesus picked Caesarea Philippi as the place to rename Simon as Peter (“The Rock”) and give him the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Did you know that Jesus’ teaching on the Papacy is prefigured in the Old Testament? Cale looks at the origins of the symbol of the keys, and how they unlock our understanding of the papal office.

In Part I of this miniseries, Cale looks at the role of Peter himself in the New Testament as leader among the Twelve. 

Cale looks at His Eminence Cardinal Thomas Collins's pastoral letter on stewardship and how you can be a good steward of the faith.

Cale looks at St. Paul's final words to the Philippians: 4:15-23.

What is the secret of Paul's contentment? What must you do to be saved? Cale looks at Philippians 4:10-14.

How do you give your worries to God? How can you stay focused on thinking good thoughts during the day? Cale looks at Philippians 4:6-9.

Cale explores Philippians 2:12-18. How can we live the virtues of purity and obedience as children of God, in the midst of a corrupt and wicked culture?

Cale looks at the ultimate example of the “kenosis” (self-emptying) of Jesus in Philippians 2:5-11. 

Paul writes about rejoicing in Jesus from a dank prison cell. We can’t always control our circumstances, but we CAN control our response, choosing the attitude of Christ.

In this opening session on St. Paul’s Letter to the Philippians, Cale offers an overview of the historical context, geography, and social scene of his readers, and how it relates to our own.

Is it ever morally licit to use nuclear weapons? Was dropping the atomic bomb wrong? Cale finishes the series on what the Catholic Church teaches on war and peace by looking at nuclear warfare. Other topics: the difference between patriotism and nationalism; consequentialism; the four elements of a just war.

What makes for lawful self defense in war between nations? Where does conscience come into play? Cale continues to unpack what the Catholic Church teaches about war and peace.

What is peace? What does 'shalom' really mean? Cale looks at how Jesus is our true peace. 

Cale continues to look at the fifth commandment 'do not kill'' by looking at capital punishment, unintentional killing of someone, desiring another's harm, and ways one can sin against God's love.

Could nations defend themselves and what about capital punishment?

Cale looks at the command to love your enemies in the Sermon on the Mount.

Cale looks at the Sermon on the Mount, the commandment not to kill and the sacredness of human life.

In Part I of this miniseries, Cale looks at the role of Peter himself in the New Testament as leader among the Twelve.