Ask Dr. E

Q: My question is from Romans 4:10-12. If Abraham's righteousness was based on faith and not circumcision, how might women in Abraham's time have expressed their covenant relationship with God, given they did not receive circumcision? Summary: In this episode Dr. E and Hanna respond to a listener's insightful question from Romans 4:10–12: If Abraham was credited as righteous by faith before he was circumcised, how did women—who were never circumcised—participate in the Abrahamic covenant? Dr. E explains that Abraham's righteousness came through faith in Genesis 15:6, and circumcision came later as a sign and seal of that faith. Though only males received the physical mark of circumcision, Dr. E emphasizes that women absolutely participated in the covenant. Like uncircumcised Gentiles who believed, women were counted righteous by faith in Yahweh. The sign of circumcision was given to men as a symbol of being set apart and because the covenant seed passed through the male line. But the covenant itself—and its blessings—extended to all who believed, regardless of gender. Women participated fully in the Abrahamic covenant by their belief in the promises of God. Their faith, not ritual, was what God honored. This reinforces a key biblical truth: righteousness and covenant inclusion have always been by faith. Abraham's story serves as a timeless reminder that it is belief in God—not outward signs—that defines belonging in His family. Takeaways: Abraham was declared righteous by faith before he was ever circumcised. Circumcision was a sign of the covenant, not the source of righteousness. Women participated in the covenant by faith, just like uncircumcised Gentiles. The physical sign was given to men because the seed of the covenant passed through them. Inclusion in God's promises has always been by belief, not by physical rituals. Romans 4 affirms that faith is the defining mark of God's people—then and now. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: I was reading Daniel 10 recently, and there's some wild stuff in there I'd love to get your thoughts on. Daniel's fasting and mourning for three weeks, and then he's finally met by an angel. The angel says he was sent in response to Daniel's prayer but was delayed for 21 days by the 'spirit prince of Persia.' He goes on to say he left Michael the archangel there to continue fighting the prince of Persia while he came to deliver the message. Then he also mentions needing to go back to fight the 'prince of Greece.' So, I'm just really curious—what does this say about spiritual warfare? More specifically, what do we make of the fact that God sent an angel, but the answer to prayer was apparently delayed by a demonic power? What can we take away from this? How can we apply it to our lives today? Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna discuss Daniel 10 and what it reveals about spiritual warfare. Prompted by a listener's question about the delayed response to Daniel's prayer, they unpack the unseen realities at play when Daniel is told that his answer was hindered by the “prince of Persia” and aided by the archangel Michael. Dr. E emphasizes that while the Bible gives us glimpses into spiritual battles, it does not provide exhaustive detail. What we do know, from passages like Ephesians 6, is that spiritual warfare is real, it's unseen, and it involves powers beyond human comprehension. Rather than focusing on deliverance language or engaging demons directly, Dr. E stresses the biblical instruction to stand firm, remain alert, and stay rooted in Christ and His Word. The passage reminds us that God's answers to prayer may be delayed—not because He is absent—but because of realities we cannot see. While the idea of angels battling behind the scenes may be mysterious or unsettling, it ultimately points us back to trusting in God's sovereign control. The call for believers is not to fight these battles ourselves but to remain faithful, prayerful, and grounded in biblical truth. Takeaways: Daniel 10 offers a rare glimpse into spiritual warfare, showing unseen conflict among angelic beings. The delay in Daniel's answered prayer reflects a spiritual battle, not God's negligence. Believers should not attempt to “pray out” demons, but instead stand firm in Christ. Scripture teaches us to be alert, resist, and lean on God's word—not to engage directly in cosmic battles. Evil and spiritual principalities often explain what human reasoning cannot, especially societal violence. We trust in God's sovereignty even when we don't fully understand how or why delays occur in the spiritual realm. Links Mentioned: Constable's Notes Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: A few years ago, a dear friend and his wife (mid 70's), lost an adult son to a drug overdose. Upon that death, another son (early 50's) confessed to his parents that he, too, was an addict. Since then, the older son has been in and out of drug rehab and has also been incarcerated several times for drug offenses. At the end of their rope, both financially and emotionally, they have given the older son a deadline to be out of the house. While in agreement and at peace (somewhat) with this decision, he and his wife are struggling with the “what if's”. Any wisdom and/or resources that you can share on how these parents can navigate this journey would be greatly appreciated. They are believers. Summary In this conversation, Dr. E reflects on the painful tension between loving and enabling, offering hard-earned wisdom. Addiction wreaks havoc on families. The deception, manipulation, and endless cycle of rehab and relapse can leave even the most committed parents worn thin. The key question becomes: are we actually helping this child take responsibility, or are we preventing that growth by cushioning the consequences? Dr. E urges parents to lock arms in unity, prepare for difficult emotions, and remember that unconditional love doesn't mean underwriting sin. Sometimes love means saying, “I'll help you when you're ready—but I will no longer enable you.” While there may not be easy answers, there is a path to navigating addiction with Biblical wisdom—even when it looks like letting go. Takeaways: Addiction affects not just the individual but the entire family. It's crucial to differentiate between helping and enabling an addict. Setting boundaries is essential for the well-being of the family. Tough love may be necessary to encourage recovery. Support from others who understand the situation is invaluable. Parents should prepare for emotional fallout when making tough decisions. Resources for addiction recovery are available and should be utilized. Recovery often involves multiple attempts and setbacks. Unconditional love does not mean supporting destructive behaviors. Links Mentioned: Focus on the Family's Drug & Addiction Resources Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Not sure if this is the right place to ask this question, but I'm curious what your take is on spiritual attacks in dreams? Do you think it's possible that one growing in their faith could be being attacked by the other realm during sleep or is just simply bad dreams? Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna discuss the complexities of dreams, particularly in relation to spiritual attacks and the influence of faith. They emphasize the reality of spiritual warfare, the importance of prayer, and how a strong foundation in Christ can mitigate fears associated with nightmares. The discussion also touches on parenting, encouraging children to focus on positive thoughts and dreams, and the significance of being aware of the content they consume. Bottom line? Dreams aren't where the real battle lies. It's about who and what you trust. Stand firm in your identity in Christ, resist the devil, and let God's Word shape your peace. The believer's strength is not in dream interpretation—but in the indwelling power of the Spirit. Takeaways: -Demons are real, but the Holy Spirit who indwells believers is far more powerful. -Satan can tempt but cannot control a Christian's dreams or thoughts. -Obsessing over dreams or mysticism can lead to spiritual vulnerability. -Scripture and prayer are the best defenses against spiritual anxiety—even during sleep. -Teach children to end their day focused on God to guard their imagination and rest. -Stand firm in faith, not fear—Christ has already won the battle. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: My husband and I are looking at the option of IVF in our fertility journey. Do you think that there is a biblical way to go about this process?  Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna discuss the emotional and ethical complexities of infertility, focusing on whether there is a biblical way to go about IVF. They explore key questions couples must ask—most importantly, why they want to have children—and emphasize the need for unity between spouses before pursuing any path. Drawing from personal experience and trusted Christian ethics resources, Dr. E highlights issues surrounding embryo creation, selection, and storage, as well as the emotional weight of long-term outcomes. They stress that neither IVF nor adoption is for everyone and that wisdom, prayer, and sound counsel are essential. Takeaways Adoption and IVF are not for everyone. Understanding the 'why' behind wanting a child is crucial. The ethical implications of embryo handling are significant. Couples should set a time frame for IVF procedures. Seek good counsel from trusted sources. Be cautious of advice from those with different experiences. God may provide children in unexpected ways. Links Mentioned Dr. Joy Riley interview Outside The Womb by Dr. Joy Riley and Scott Rae Focus on the family IVF article Wayne Grudem IVF article Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: In regards to the Lord's Supper, can you explain 1 Corinthians 10:14-17? That text has always been a conundrum for me. Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna address a question regarding the Lord's Supper, specifically focusing on 1 Corinthians 10:14-17. They explore the complexities of the passage, emphasizing the importance of understanding the elements of communion and their significance in Christian fellowship. The discussion also touches on various theological perspectives, including the concept of transubstantiation and the implications of idolatry in relation to the Lord's Supper. Takeaways The Lord's Supper is a significant aspect of Christian worship. Idolatry is a key theme in understanding the Lord's Supper. The elements of communion symbolize unity in the body of Christ. Proclaiming the Lord's death is central to the practice of communion. The act of communion should be both a moment of reflection and celebration. Understanding the context of the Lord's Supper can enhance its meaning. The Lord's Supper anticipates Christ's return and the hope of renewal. Links Mentioned ADE 228: During Communion, Does The Bread and Wine Change Into Christ's Body and Blood? Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: How did Pharaoh know to use his magicians and dark arts when Moses was coming to meet with him? Moses was basically dealing with “hostage“ negotiations to let the Israelites go free— seems like it would be a matter of negotiating terms rather than conjuring up the dark arts? Since the Old Testament is a foreshadow of things now, do you think that wicked power in high places is being used today? In a massive, behind the scenes way?  Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna address questions about the use of dark arts in biblical times, particularly in relation to Pharaoh and Moses. They explore the nature of evil in today's world, emphasizing the importance of standing firm in faith and focusing on the personal work of Christ rather than being distracted by demonic influences. The discussion also highlights the role of prayer in spiritual warfare and critiques literary works that delve into the nature of evil, advocating for a focus on biblical truths instead. Takeaways Pharaoh's magicians show that spiritual deception has always been a tool of the enemy. The true battle was about who is God, not about political negotiations. Evil influence still exists behind power structures today. Christians are called to stand firm, not obsess over spiritual warfare. Scripture gives us enough — we don't need to over-study the demonic realm. Prayer is our main response to unseen battles, not fascination or fear. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Growing up in the 80s and 90s, having Christian ideals was about as common as speaking English.  Sunday lessons were “winsome”, and friends I invited usually came back. I never felt at odds with society, ever.  It was much easier to be a Christian, even when a few disagreed.  Those Sundays, Wednesday night bible studies, and church camps had a lasting positive effect on me. Fast forward 30- 40 years, and it seems much more difficult to speak openly about what we believe.  Our values are openly being targeted, and a Christian is wondering if the 90s playbook still works?  Should we respond to these attacks “winsomely”, with grace/peace?  Or should Christians go on the attack to get our values back?  How best to do this in 2024?  Appreciate your thoughts! P.s. We've been to several local churches over the last ten years.  In our experience, about 80% still use the winsome technique, while about 15-20% seem to be taking the Don't Tread On Me approach.  What is “The Way”? Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna discuss the evolving nature of Christianity, the importance of effective communication within the church, and the resilience of the church despite cultural challenges. Dr. E emphasizes the need for clarity in messaging and the significance of being involved in the church community. Takeaways: Churches change, but Christ's mission doesn't. Biblical truth should be taught plainly, not watered down. The Church has always been messy, but God calls us to love. Less theological depth = weaker pulpits. Show up. Serve. Be part of the Church you want to see. God preserves His Church, no matter the attacks. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Dear Dr. E, I have often wondered about the meaning of Jesus' parable in Luke 16:1-8, the shrewd manager. Can you explain? Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna discuss the parable of the shrewd manager from Luke 16, exploring its context, the actions of the characters, and the lessons it imparts about shrewdness and stewardship. Dr. E emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural background of the parable and how it relates to other biblical stories, particularly in the context of Jesus' teachings on wealth and morality. Takeaways: Context is crucial for understanding biblical parables. Jesus used parables to challenge societal norms and expectations. The master in the parable represents a figure of mercy and generosity. The parable encourages believers to leverage worldly resources for good. Understanding the cultural context enhances interpretation of scripture. Jesus' teachings often subvert traditional views of righteousness. The parable of the shrewd manager ties into broader themes of grace and redemption. Links Mentioned: Kenneth Bailey on parables Poet & Peasant and Through Peasant Eyes by Kenneth Bailey Jacob and the Prodigal by Kenneth Bailey The Good Shepherd by Kenneth Bailey "Reading Luke," Charles Talbert Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Are gifts of the Spirit as detailed in 1st Corinthians, chapters 11-13 still applicable or are they no longer relevant/needed in this day and age?  Summary In this conversation, Dr. Michael Easley and Hanna Seymour discuss the relevance of spiritual gifts as outlined in 1 Corinthians, emphasizing their purpose and application in today's church. He explores the distinction between miraculous gifts and the innate abilities individuals possess. He encourages listeners to understand and utilize their unique gifts in service to others. The discussion also touches on the importance of love as the foundation for all spiritual gifts. Takeaways: Spiritual gifts are grace gifts given for the common good. The purpose of sign gifts was authentication of the apostles. Miracles are different from the gifts of the Spirit. Spiritual gifts can align with one's natural abilities. Love is the greatest of all gifts and should underpin all actions. The lists of spiritual gifts in the Bible are not exhaustive. Each person is uniquely created and gifted by God. Understanding your gifts can enhance your service in the church. Gifts may evolve as a person grows in faith. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: I am a minister of music, and I've been reading through the Pentateuch to study the foundations of the Israelites' worship... and I've hit a theme I'm curious about, application-wise, for the church today. In Deut. 7:25–26, God orders the pre-conquest Israelites to completely destroy the idols of the pagans when they overtake their cities, saying, "Don't covet the silver or gold on the images and take it for yourself, or else it will ensnare you." I grew up during the "height" of the traditional/contemporary "worship wars" controversy, and while I never really took a side, I find church members on both sides can idolize styles of music (or even music itself). However, I found that those against contemporary styles usually went the farthest in their rejection, saying it's "too worldly." My question: is there anything Scripture has to say as a litmus between "redeeming" secular (or maybe even godless) things for Christ's Church, and being "ensnared by the gold and silver" of worldly standards, trends, and styles? Summary In this conversation, Dr. Michael Easley and Hanna Seymour explores the complexities of worship music, particularly the divide between contemporary and traditional styles. He highlights the importance of education in helping congregations understand and appreciate diverse musical expressions. The discussion also covers the role of songwriters, the distinction between secular and sacred music, and the impact of personal preferences on worship experiences. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com. Takeaways: You cannot please everybody in worship. Education is essential for understanding worship music. All truth is God's truth, regardless of the source. Music is a creation of God, meant for His glory. Every songwriter has flaws, but their work can still be valuable. Congregations can sing secular songs with a different perspective. Understanding your congregation's preferences is crucial for worship leaders. Education can enhance appreciation for diverse music styles. Worship leaders have the power to shape congregational experiences. Personal preferences should not hinder worship. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Hello Dr. E. I've always been taught that if you have professed your faith in Christ you could participate in the communion. But recently our pastor is preaching that we have to be baptized in order to participate in the communion! Summary In this episode, Dr. Michael explores the significance of understanding the gospel, the implications of age restrictions on baptism and communion, and the nature of faith and discipleship. The conversation highlights the importance of childlike faith while cautioning against the dangers of legalism in church practices. Michael and Hanna challenge the idea of arbitrary age limits for baptism and communion, advocating instead for a grace-filled approach to faith and spiritual growth. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Hello Dr. E. I've always been taught that if you have professed your faith in Christ you could participate in the communion. But recently our pastor is preaching that we have to be baptized in order to participate in the communion! Summary Dr. Michael Easley explores the complexities of baptism and communion in the church, focusing on the debate between believers' baptism and infant baptism. He examines historical perspectives, theological implications, and the emerging trend of requiring individuals to be 18 before baptism. The discussion underscores the importance of understanding the gospel and recognizing baptism as a public declaration of faith in Christ. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com. Takeaways: Baptism is a debated topic within the church. Communion participation is often tied to baptism. Historical tensions exist over baptism practices. The age requirement for baptism is a recent trend. Baptism serves as a public identification with Christ. The concept of sacrament versus ordinance is significant. Church history shows the dangers of legalism in baptism. Articulating faith is crucial for baptism eligibility. The New Testament does not specify an age for baptism. Discipleship and grounding in faith are essential for youth. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: I am studying to teach Matthew 14 and wanted to see if you could help me with this question: Was Herod Antipas (who had John the Baptist beheaded) Jewish? One of my commentaries said he was, but I'm not convinced. Please help! Summary Dr. Michael Easley delves into the complex legacy of Herod the Great and his son, Herod Antipas, particularly in relation to their actions and identities within the context of Jewish history. The discussion explores the nuances of their Jewish heritage, the political dynamics of their reign, and the implications of their actions, such as the beheading of John the Baptist. The conversation highlights the intricate relationship between personal identity, political power, and religious affiliation in the historical narrative of the Herods. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.   Takeaways: Herod the Great was a paranoid murderer. Herod Antipas is considered half Jewish. The actions of Herod Antipas raise questions about Jewish identity. Herod's legacy is marked by political manipulation and violence. The historical context of the Herods is complex and multifaceted. Herod the Great's building projects included synagogues and mikvahs. The relationship between Herod and Judaism is complicated. Herod Antipas's actions were influenced by his family legacy. The Herods can be compared to modern political dynasties. Understanding the Herods requires a nuanced approach to history. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Who is the gatekeeper in John 10:3 who opens the gate for the Shepherd and sheep? Takeaways The identity of the gatekeeper in John 10:3 is uncertain. Parables serve as memorable teaching tools. Cultural context is crucial for understanding parables. Many modern interpretations miss key cultural insights. The good shepherd is a protective and guiding figure. Understanding sheepfolds enhances comprehension of the parable. Jesus often used familiar imagery in his teachings. The relationship between the shepherd and sheep is intimate. Questions about biblical texts can lead to deeper understanding.   Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: My Bible says that John 7:53 - 8:11 isn't found in the earliest manuscripts, so why are we including this in the Bible that we say is the inerrant word of God? Takeaways Inerrancy is a complex issue, focusing on original autographs. Manuscript evidence is abundant but requires careful analysis. Textual criticism helps us understand variations in biblical texts. The ending of Mark and the story of the adulterous woman are key examples. Historical accuracy of certain passages can still hold value. Translation and tradition play crucial roles in understanding scripture. The Bible's reliability is not diminished by textual criticism. Faith and critical thinking are essential in biblical study. Understanding the context of scripture enhances its interpretation. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Hi Dr. Easley! I just don't know which Bible translations to trust. I know reading your Bible is a vital part of having a relationship with God, but I don't know if the version I have been reading is the most accurate, and I worry that I've been taking verses out of context my whole life. Takeaways Translations vary, but the core message remains intact. Understanding vocabulary is crucial for accurate interpretation. Bible study methodology is essential for deeper understanding. Language issues arise from the complexity of translations. Different translations serve different audiences and purposes. Context is key to understanding the meaning of scripture. Engaging with scripture is a lifelong journey of learning. Theological understanding requires more than just vocabulary definitions. To hear Dr. E's full answer, listen to the podcast or watch on Youtube! Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Was the garden of Eden really “perfect”? I read this in some bible study notes recently: When the first man and woman disobeyed God, sin disrupted God's perfect creation. But was it perfect? Satan was in the garden. How can that be perfect? Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: When God so loved the world, why would He take the offering of His Son on earth with such a horrific suffering and death? I understand it is the ultimate to sacrifice the offering of something so valuable to show that love, but still it is conflicting. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: A friend of mine and I were talking about discipleship. She said that the scripture never uses the word. The only mention is as a noun: disciples. She said that churches don't really need to disciple Christians because we can read the Bible and God will guide us on our own. Can you talk about this? My opinion is that new Christians SHOULD be discipled. Would love your thoughts & if there is any scriptural basis. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Hi Dr. Easley! I listen to your show each week with my mom. I am a 19 year old freshman in college. My question is does the bride have to take the husband's last name according to the Bible? What is the significance of the husband's last name and not the bride's last name? I look forward to hearing your response! Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: Hi Dr. E! During communion, does the bread and wine change into Christ's body and blood? If not, why do Catholics believe that? Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Q: My 7 year old son wants to be baptized. How do I know he's ready?  Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Dr. E responds to a recent comment made by Pope Francis. On Sept 13 Pope Francis to students in Singapore at an interreligious meeting at Singapore's Catholic Junior College said, "God is God for all, and if God is God for all," he said, "then we are all sons and daughters of God. All religions are paths to reach God," said Pope Francis. "They are—to make a comparison—like different languages, different dialects, to get there. But God is God for everyone." Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: Hey Hanna and Dr. E. I love your podcast. I have a quick question. Do we pray to God, do we pray to Jesus, or do we pray to both? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: My name is Samuel and I'm taking an evangelism class. One of our assignments was to role-play a believer and unbeliever with someone. I was playing the believer, and the lady playing the unbeliever asked me, ‘What does it mean that Jesus is the Lord of your life?' I didn't know how to explain that without using ‘Christianese' like ‘get saved' How should I answer that, and what are some other questions from unbelievers that Christians might struggle with? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: Acts 15:5 says: “But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, ‘It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses.” Since these ‘believers' thought that salvation came by faith in Christ plus being circumcised and following the Law, were they really saved? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: How is it possible to lie to the Holy Spirit? Are true believers even capable of this? What does scripture say about it? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: What do you think about Christian families raising their kids to believe in Santa? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: I've started studying the temptation of Christ, focusing on the Scripture Jesus uses to rebuke Satan. The first verse, from Deuteronomy 8:3, was longer than I expected and includes more than just the reference to bread. However, I'm really stuck on the second verse Jesus quotes: ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve'; (Luke 4:8). All my Bibles reference Deuteronomy 6:13, but that verse says, ‘You shall fear the Lord your God and serve Him,' not ‘worship'. Why would Jesus change the wording? Is it the same Hebrew word, and if so, why isn't it translated the same way? I'm curious because I think understanding the correct terminology is important, especially since I'm studying Jesus' response to apply it to my own struggles. I'd love to hear your thoughts—you know way more about this than I do! To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: Deuteronomy 17 mentions not taking many wives so we are not led astray.  Where does it direct to have just one wife?  It seems in the Old Testament that men are allowed to have more than one wife but women must be monogamous. To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: I have chronic pain from chemotherapy damage to my nerves. Is there one thing that you learned in your three-year study of Job that helped you with chronic pain? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: Was Mordecai “out of the will of God?” In a current study of Esther, one commentary described Mordecai as ‘out of the will of God' because he stayed behind in Babylon. I have never heard this take on the uncle/cousin of Esther. Your thoughts, Dr. E? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: Who are you voting for and how should Christians vote? What does the Bible tell us about making wise political decisions? Links Mentioned: Dr. Jeff Myers on inContext Jason Yates on inContext Dr. Cal Beisner on inContext David Closson on inContext Dr. Brian Baugus on inContext To read the show notes, click here.

Full Question: Should Christians participate in Halloween? Are we making a big deal out of nothing or are we engaging something that is evil? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: Messianic Judaism puzzles me. You have Jewish religion, you have Christianity, then you have something created in between the two in the 1960's with that said is messianic Judaism a valid thing--this is all weird to me. Didn't all the apostles that were Jews convert to Christianity (believers in Christ)? Am I right in saying that they never went back to their Jewish traditions and Jewish worship? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: A work colleague of mine, and Church of Christ preacher on the side, often debate theology.  The biggest debate topic is the idea of that musical instruments do not belong in the church; a well known tenant of the Church of Christ.  I ask him what about David and his harp? And he quotes Amos 6:4-7. He says there is no mention of instruments AFTER Amos, so they shouldn't be used in worship, and has alluded to me that I may not be saved if I do go to a church that has instruments. Other members of the Church of Christ have essentially told me the same thing, or at least try to cast doubt on my salvation because of the instruments. Would love for this all to be put in-context! To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: I am currently reading through Judges and came across the passage in 9:23 “Then God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the men of Shechem; and the men of Shechem, dealt treacherously with Abimelech,” Since we have all sinned in the sight of God and are deserving of punishment, does this verse give credence to people who believe their struggles and trials are all some sort of punishment sent from God for their bad deeds? Obviously, our God is a God of justice, but also a God of grace who is in control of everything. Even the evil spirits of this world. Where do you feel the Bible lands on this issue? Are our tribulations a result of God sending punishment or just the aftermath of a fallen world? If the answer is both, how do we discern between the two and encourage others toward the truth? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: Was Simon the magician in Acts 8 saved or was his faith fake? Can we know for sure? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: When reading about “the new heavens and a new earth,” in Isaiah 65:17-25, I read, in verse 20, about the youth will die at the age of one hundred and the one who does not reach the age of one hundred will be thought accursed.” I wonder if this is support for the idea of a millennial kingdom, or does this refer to some other time? Because it speaks of death, I imagine it is not speaking of the heaven we experience after our resurrection, but I am not sure what was meant by this passage. (Other pastors have been happy to skirt this question, but I know you better than that.) Links Mentioned: Bible.org To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full question: I send out a weekly email with 1 Bible verse, 1 quote, 1 question each week…. Recently I sent out an email that included Mark 1:35 and I wrote a little commentary that said: If the God-man (remember He was FULLY God and also fully man) needed to get up early in the morning, get away from all the people, and spend time in the presence of His Father-- HOW MUCH MORE DO WE?! I got an email back that said this: Almighty GOD is not a man nor has he ever been. Read a little deeper in your Bible. Learn his name and differentiate between the father and his son who also is a god but the one and only ALMIGHTY GOD. So, I thought it'd be fun to bring this to you, mi padre, and see how you would respond to this person. Links Mentioned: Sign up for The Weekly One To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: How do I know that I love God? I read the Bible daily, I pray, practice spiritual disciplines, do all the things a Christian “should do” but how do I know that I really love God and am not just doing all those things because I know I'm supposed to or because I'm trying to earn His favor? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: What form is God the Father? If Jesus is the bodily man form, the Spirit is the spirit form, what is God the Father's? Does He also have a body? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: A friend of mine went out with a guy who believes that books like the book of Enoch and the suffering of Moses should be read along with the scripture and thus be treated as inerrant. Is this a new thing or have people always tried to include these books in scripture? Obviously in Catholicism they add books to the bible, so I'm guessing this is a similar situation. I've heard the teaching that Jude quotes the book of Enoch in his letter. So, should Christians study extra Biblical books? Links Mentioned: The Chicago Council on Biblical Inerrancy Defending Inerrancy by Norman Geisler and William Roach To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: Michael, thanks for doing everything you do. Was curious to get your thoughts on AI. I've used Chat GPT and it's almost like having a smart personal assistant. It's also terrifying. I also see trailers for movies about robots taking over the world and it's like... the warning signs are there - what are we thinking by moving forward even more so with this?! To give an inanimate object sentient. Is it un-similar to the Tower of Babel? We're playing God, right? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full question: Can Satan and the demonic forces read our minds/hear our thoughts or are they limited to what we speak and do? I cannot find definitive evidence one way or the other in the Bible... So naturally I've heard teaching in churches leaning on both sides. To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: I have always understood that, since God loves us, He gives us free will to choose Him or not choose Him. For those of us that go to heaven, will we still have free will there? If yes, what happens if, over trillions of years, someone decides to reject Him? If not, what is the nature of God in heaven? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: I have several friends who are gay and profess to be Christians. How does that work? How do I ask them, or do I ask them, how they reconcile being gay and Christian with the Bible? Can someone be gay and be a Christian? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: Can you discuss the revival issue? I've just seen it happening even in the small town I live in, to kids I know and love, and I have no clue how to approach it (and them) with love. Ultimately, Biblical revival is shown over time by the fruit it bears (if any), yet this generation seems obsessed with pop culture/IG/Tik Tok ‘theology' and it worries me as I approach my own context of ministry. To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.

Full Question: Do you believe you go to heaven after you die? I'm just curious. I noticed you have been using “new heaven and new Earth” and such and I was just curious if you believe you go to heaven right after you die. To read the show notes, click here.

Full Question: My question is about ghosts. In Luke 24, Jesus says he is not a ghost because ghosts (or spirits) do not have flesh and bones. I wondered what or who the ghosts are that Jesus is referencing? I have respected Christian friends who believe that they've seen ghosts of their loved ones. I've heard others who say these encounters are all demonic or imaginary. It seems Jesus acknowledges that there are ghosts/spirits in this passage. What are your thoughts on this topic? To read the show notes, click here. Call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.