Everyday Theology

In this episode of Everyday Theology, we’re diving deep into the tricky relationship between faith and personal experience. Our personal stories often shape how we understand God. But are those feelings always trustworthy? And should they influence our theology? Tune in as we explore how our personal experiences connect with God's Word.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do diverse experiences shape our understanding of God? In this episode of Everyday Theology, we unpack how culture influences our theology and interpretation of Scripture. Tune in as we explore what happens when we see God not just through our own lens, but also through the lens of others. Resources: Reading While Black by Esau McCaulley: https://esaumccaulley.com/books/readi... Urban Apologetics by Eric Mason: https://www.amazon.com/Urban-Apologet... The Cross and the Lynching Tree by James Cone: https://www.amazon.com/Cross-Lynching... Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes by E. Randolph Richards and Brandon J. O'Brien: https://www.amazon.com/Misreading-Scr... See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Everyday Theology, we’re breaking down the three major views on faith and reason. We’ll explore how using our minds is a significant part of loving God with all our hearts. Tune in as we look at how reasoning with discernment can actually deepen your faith. Resources: Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes by E. Randolph Richards & Brandon J. O’Brien: https://www.amazon.com/Misreading-Scr...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What should we do with traditions: keep them, toss them, or test them? In this episode of Everyday Theology, we’re discussing the role of tradition in our faith. When does it help us understand God better, and when does it get in the way? Drawing from Scripture and church history, we explore the difference between traditions that strengthen faith and those that try to control it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the Bible just an old book, or is it something more? In this episode of Everyday Theology, we unpack why Scripture is the foundation of our faith and how it shapes our everyday lives. Brandon explains how God communicates through the Bible and why it still matters today. We explore how the Bible reveals truth in a noisy world, from nature’s design and the voice in our conscience to the story of Jesus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do we believe what we believe about God? In this episode of Everyday Theology, we’re taking a step back and asking how we form our beliefs about God in the first place. Jacob shares a practical framework for building a faith rooted in Scripture and lived out in real life. Resources: Theological Method: An Introduction by Graham A. Cole: https://www.crossway.org/books/theolo...See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What even is theology, and why does it matter in real life? On this episode of Everyday Theology, we’re talking about what theology really is, why it’s for everyone (not just the academics), and how what you believe about God shapes everything: your relationships, your choices, even your identity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When did “just entertainment” get so complicated? In this episode of Everyday Theology, we dive into the gray zone of what Christians watch and stream. What we watch shapes our hearts, whether it's sex scenes in superhero movies or content from binge-worthy shows. So, what does it look like to stream with wisdom? With Scripture as our guide, we explore how to guard our hearts and let the Holy Spirit shape our watchlist.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Everyday Theology, we’re talking about the rise of “Pharisee culture” on social media—when Christians spend more time critiquing each other than sharing Christ. Whether it be petty unfollows or entire platforms built on outrage, the drama seems to be trending. It begs the question: are we using our time and influence to glorify God, or just to win arguments online? Listen in as Ravae talks about how to engage online in ways that actually reflect our hope in Christ.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Everyday Theology, we’re talking about convictions—the silly ones, the serious ones, and the sometimes sticky situations they create in our relationships. What do you do when your friend’s choices conflict with your beliefs? How do you approach someone who says they follow Jesus but lives like they don’t? What does the Bible have to say about calling people out? Listen in as Ravae tackles these questions through the lens of Matthew 18 while highlighting grace and patience as a response to tough conversations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you hear the word “exorcism,” what pops into your head? A scary movie? A priest with holy water? In this episode of Everyday Theology, we’re asking big questions about what Bible says about exorcisms. Can a Christian be possessed? Why does this stuff feel so creepy, even if we know we’re protected in Christ? Listen is as we get into the weird and wacky while pointing to the armor of God—our daily defense against influence and deception.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever felt your passion for God start to fade? In this episode of Everyday Theology, Ravae discusses seasons of life when following Jesus doesn’t feel like everything we'd hoped for. Tune in as we confront the lies of the prosperity Gospel and acknowledge the beauty of God's grace when we're in the valleys. From burnout to doubt and everything in between, we pray this conversation would remind you that messy faith is still real faith.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it possible that comfort is keeping you from spiritual growth? In this episode of Everyday Theology, Ravae dives into the story of Jonah—outlining the ways that God disrupts Jonah’s comfort to teach him something deeper. Tune in as we explore how holding on to comfort can keep us from relying on God.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God is holy, perfect, blameless, and righteous. His holiness is revealed throughout Scripture, setting the standard for His people. As children of God, we are called to be holy and set apart just as He is. But in the reality of our human nature, how can we possibly live out such a calling? In this episode of Everyday Theology, Pastor Jacob Ley continues the conversation on our “significant insignificance” by exploring the holiness of God—and what it means for us to pursue holiness in our everyday lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What makes a life truly meaningful? In this two-part series, we wrestle with the tension between the human desire for significance and the reality of our smallness. From the tiniest atom to the largest galaxy, creation points us to something greater—God Himself. Scripture tells us that everything is from Him, through Him, and for Him. Our purpose isn’t found in ourselves, but in connection with the One who holds it all together. Listen in as Pastor Jacob Ley discusses this topic and explores how our significance is found in Him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if grief doesn’t just wound, but also points us home? In the final episode of our Lewis & Loss series, Brandon reflects on how C.S. Lewis emerged from his sorrow with a deeper trust in God’s unchanging presence. Like a lighthouse in the storm, hope begins to break through the fog. Even when answers feel distant, the resurrection of Jesus gives us reason to believe that all shall be well. Listen in and be reminded that even in the fog of loss, our hope in Christ still shines.Episode Resources:A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When loss leaves us feeling like nothing matters, where do we turn? In part three of our Lewis & Loss series, we dive into C.S. Lewis’ honest questions about whether anything matters in the face of grief. Guided by Lewis' book, A Grief Observed, Brandon explores how sorrow can feel empty—but also how love and suffering are deeply connected. Listen in as we discuss how God has greatly suffered with us, ultimately defining the purpose of our grief.Episode Resources:A Grief Observed by C.S. LewisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grief has a way of shaking what we believe about God—but what if it also reveals His true nature? In part two of our series on C.S. Lewis and loss, Brandon explores how Lewis wrestled with the character of God after the death of his wife. Is God distant in our pain, or does suffering draw us deeper into His love? Can we trust a God who allows us to experience pain? Is it possible that grief might shape our relationship with Him? Join us as we continue our journey through Lewis’ reflections and uncover the ways loss can lead us to a clearer, truer view of God. Episode Resources:A Grief Observed by C.S. LewisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this first episode of our latest four-part series, Brandon will walk us through A Grief Observed, written by C.S. Lewis after the death of his wife. Lewis' book on faith and loss pulls back the curtain on doubt and the struggle to trust God in suffering.If you've ever asked where God is in the midst of pain, this series is for you. Listen in as we wrestle with Lewis’ reflections and explore what it means to grieve with hope.Resources:A Grief Observed by C.S. LewisSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered what Catholics believe? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Brandon, Jacob, and Ravae discuss all things Catholicism, including its many facets and beliefs. Tune in as we chat about what it means to be Catholic, and how Catholicism both aligns with and differs from Protestant Christianity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever wondered what the Gospel truly is? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Pastor Jacob Ley explores the core of the Gospel and what it means for us as believers. As followers of Christ, we're called to share the Good News with a broken world, but how can we do this effectively? Tune in to discover the heart of the Gospel and practical ways to live it out in everyday life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever felt insignificant? Maybe you resonate with feeling small, less than, or unsure of your purpose. On this episode of Everyday Theology, Pastor Jacob Ley unpacks God's design for us—and for the whole world. Listen in as we seek to align our actions with God's will and His purpose for our lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Everyday Theology, Ravae sits down to talk about loneliness and the fear of being alone. How do we overcome these tough moments? Loneliness can be uncomfortable, but when we're in Christ, we can rest in the truth that we're never truly alone. Check out this episode to hear more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deciphering God's will seems to be a big topic of conversation in the Christian faith. We can often dwell on it and spend too much of our energy thinking about it. Maybe you question what His will is for your life or you worry you will fall out of His will. We can get lost in the little decisions and miss the bigger picture. Do we over-complicate it? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Brandon, Jacob, and Ravae sit down to discuss how we can discern God's will and what that truly looks like for us as Christians.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is beauty objective or subjective? We all may interpret beauty in different ways or apply it in different areas, so maybe you're wondering how it proves God's existence. On today's episode of Everyday Theology, Brandon talks about beauty and value and how they point to the existence of God. Check out this episode to learn more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sex is a taboo topic—especially in the church. In part two of this two-part series, Ravae welcomes special guest, Makayla Czeder, to continue the conversation about God’s design for intimacy and how to navigate the cultural messages that surround it. They also talk about the importance of grace and forgiveness. We hope you check it out! ResourcesLet's Talk About Sex Part One | https://youtu.be/pjJUdpxhlIUWhat God Says About Sex Blog | https://woodsidebible.org/read/what-god-says-about-sex/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's be honest: sex is a taboo topic—especially in the church. In part one of this two-part series, Ravae talks about God’s design for intimacy and how to navigate the cultural messages that surround it. Whether you're single, married, or simply curious, this conversation offers biblical insights and encouragement on this topic. We hope you check it out!ResourcesWhat God Says About Sex Blog | https://woodsidebible.org/read/what-god-says-about-sex/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We live in a world where we hang on the words of our favorite celebrity or influencer. If they say we should get this product, we buy it. If they say we should do XYZ, we do it. But is this really who we should be listening to? Should we take every word they say as truth--even Christian influencers and Pastors? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Ravae shares with us some of the dangers that can come from who we follow and sometimes ultimately idolizing over God.Resources:Celebrities for Jesus | https://bit.ly/3W7CRhRSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bible is full of small passages that, if we aren't paying attention, we can easily miss. One of those is a small passage in Genesis 6 about the Nephilim. Who are these mysterious beings, and why did God choose to mention them in Scripture? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Brandon, Ravae, and Jacob have a fun conversation about the Nephilim, giants, angels, and some other fun conspiracies. When we say this is an episode you don't want to miss, we mean it! And let us know your thoughts. Who do you think the Nephilim are?ResourcesThe Bible Said What? The Nephilim | https://bit.ly/4jcxnwfThe Unseen Realm | https://bit.ly/4fPTHZWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you are familiar with Christianity or the Church, you've probably heard the phrase, "You have freedom in Christ!" But what does that really mean? On today’s episode of Everyday Theology, Brandon dives deep into the topic of our freedom in Christ. Don’t miss this encouraging and empowering conversation—check it out!ResourcesCheck out more from our Everyday Theology Crew | https://bit.ly/4j7yDkfSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Throughout their years of ministry, Pastors are asked many different questions about things in the Bible that may not make sense. On this episode of Everyday Theology, Jacob answers one of those. You may be familiar with the Holy Spirit or even baptism. But what does it mean when you hear the phrase "the baptism of the Holy Spirit?" Check out today's episode to learn more!ResourcesWhat is the Holy Spirit | https://bit.ly/3YEK6Q5See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Occasionally, you'll hear someone say, "Well, at least it's not murder." Or, "it was only a little white lie." So often, we find ourselves ranking sins. This begs the question, "Is there a Hierarchy of Sin?" On today's episode of Everyday Theology, Ravae spends time answering this question and more! Be sure to check it out!ResourcesWhat is Sin | https://bit.ly/4fqtb90See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christmas season ushers in a sense of wonder and nostalgia for many individuals. When the snow begins to fall and reflect off the Christmas lights, it feels like magic. It's almost as if we've stepped into Narnia. With that feeling in mind, we've decided to take the month of December and share with you some life lessons from C.S. Lewis. Join Brandon as he shares with us how these life lessons from Lewis impact our faith. As we wrap up, we're looking at what it means to count the cost. ResourcesThe complete works of C.S. Lewis | https://bit.ly/3OCCGamLife Lessons from Lewis Part One | https://bit.ly/3OLN6VhLife Lessons from Lewis Part Two | https://bit.ly/3ZGURAXSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christmas season ushers in a sense of wonder and nostalgia for many individuals. When the snow begins to fall and reflect off the Christmas lights, it feels like magic. It's almost as if we've stepped into Narnia. With that feeling in mind, we've decided to take the month of December and share with you some life lessons from C.S. Lewis. Join Brandon as he shares with us how these life lessons from Lewis impact our faith. Next, we're looking at the lessons we can learn from Lewis about faith.ResourcesThe complete works of C.S. Lewis | https://bit.ly/3OCCGamLife Lessons from Lewis Part One | https://bit.ly/3OLN6VhSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christmas season ushers in a sense of wonder and nostalgia for many individuals. When the snow begins to fall and reflect off the Christmas lights, it feels like magic. It's almost as if we've stepped into Narnia. With that feeling in mind, we've decided to take the month of December and share with you some life lessons from C.S. Lewis. Join Brandon as he shares with us how these life lessons from Lewis impact our faith. Next, we're looking at the lessons we can learn from Lewis about morality.ResourcesThe complete works of C.S. Lewis | https://bit.ly/3OCCGamSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Christmas season ushers in a sense of wonder and nostalgia for many individuals. When the snow begins to fall and reflect off the Christmas lights, it feels like magic. It's almost as if we've stepped into Narnia. With that feeling in mind, we've decided to take the month of December and share with you some life lessons from C.S. Lewis. Join Brandon as he shares with us how these life lessons from Lewis impact our faith. While you're at it, share your favorite work from C.S. Lewis in the comments below!ResourcesThe complete works of C.S. Lewis | https://bit.ly/3OCCGamSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mental Health is a huge topic that can barely be touched on in a 20-minute podcast. But on this episode of Everyday Theology, Jacob, Ravae, and Brandon start the conversation—especially regarding therapy and counseling. We'll talk about the importance of taking care of your mental health, finding the right therapist, and how Christians can begin to approach conversations regarding mental health. This conversation is ongoing, and we look forward to touching on it in future episodes. ResourcesCheck out all our resources on mental health here: https://bit.ly/3ZathN7See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do Christians just follow Jesus to make themselves feel better? Or a way for weak people to get through life? Maybe you have thought this before, that Christians just place their faith in Christ to help them get through the difficult moments of life. Is this the truth? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Brandon breaks it down for us. Maybe following Christ truly is about finding healing for the deep hurt in your heart and being transformed by the Gospel. Listen to how Brandon answers these questions and more!  Resources:  Check out our blog! It's filled with incredible resources and encouragement for whatever season you are in. You can view it here: https://woodsidebible.org/read/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Remember the old saying, "Modest is hottest?" If you don't, it's okay. But sayings like that surrounded any individual who grew up in the church. However, times have changed. It's increasingly acceptable, even normal, to see things that would be considered "immodest" as everyday attire. But is modesty just about your appearance and what you wear? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Ravae explores the phenomenon known as modesty culture and dives deeper into all that modesty entails. Check it out!ResourcesWhat God Says About Modesty | https://bit.ly/3Anlx0YSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God the Father, God the Son, and God the Spirit make up the Holy Trinity. But how can God be three persons? Does each play a specific role? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Jacob breaks down the Trinity, its parts, and its meaning for us as believers!ResourcesWhat is the Role of the Holy Spirit | https://bit.ly/3YEK6Q5Is the Holy Spirit Real | https://bit.ly/3YqiixKSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Halloween here at Everyday Theology! And what better way to ring in a night full of tricks and treats than talking about horror movies?  Whether you celebrate Halloween or not is up to you; however, some elements of this season could cross into dangerous territory. With this in mind, Jacob shares with us the answer to the question, "Should Christians watch horror movies?" Be sure to watch all the way to the end of the episode for a special spooky treat!To check out all of our content, visit woodsidebible.org/listen or woodsidebible.org/read!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How often have you heard people randomly throw out Bible verses in any given situation? For example, athletes quote Philippians 4:13 after playing a good game, or we quote Psalm 37:4 when we want to receive something we think we deserve or need. All the time, people are misquoting the Bible. So, how can we make sure we aren't doing the same? On today's episode of Everyday Theology, the crew talks about the dangers of misquoting the Bible and how we can equip ourselves to make sure we have a proper understanding and context to some of the verses we "quote" every day!ResourcesHow to Read the Bible for All It's Worth | https://bit.ly/4fcFNRo*Please note: just because Woodside recommends a book does not mean we agree with every piece of work or statement by the authors. This is a standalone recommendation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Christians, election seasons can be difficult to navigate. We want to vote according to God and His Word, but it can be difficult. This is especially true when one politician may hold strong to one value and their opposition to another. So, how should Christians approach voting? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Jacob shares with us some practical takeaways and encouragement as we prepare to cast our votes this election season.ResourceNavigating Politics Resource Guide | https://bit.ly/3N9Zpd1See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Conversations surrounding difficult or controversial topics are always hard. There are a few topics that, no matter how you approach them, never get easier. On tonight's episode of Everyday Theology, Brandon talks about one of those topics: abortion. While discussing how to have conversations surrounding this topic, Brandon encourages us through the lens of love and grace.*If you or someone you know is facing an unplanned pregnancy, we're here for you. We have people and resources available to you as you walk through this. One of those is CareNet. You can contact them here: https://www.carenetberkleydetroit.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Each election year brings about more stress, tension, and animosity. Years ago, it felt as if politics were something discussed but not something you live and die by. The government existed, but it didn't feel like our entire culture and lives revolved around it. So, how should we view the government? As believers, this question can often be hard to answer. We know we belong to a greater kingdom, but we're living in an earthly one right now. On this episode of Everyday Theology, Jacob discusses some answers to that question and more!*If you have questions about navigating this political season, we encourage you to connect with one of our 14 locations locally. Many of our campuses are providing in-person conferences or classes to help you during this season. To find a campus near you, visit woodsidebible.org/locationsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Politics—a word that can make a room feel tense in an instant. Questions like, "Who are you voting for?" or "What is your stance on X policy?" can immediately create division and judgment. But what if we told you that the world we live in is confusing political identity with religious identity? Or that who you vote for doesn't determine who you are as an individual? On this episode of Everday Theology, Brandon, Jacob, and Ravae have an honest conversation about politics in the hope of helping address the discomfort this season brings and ultimately point you to a kingdom and a ruler far greater than one here on earth.*If you have questions about navigating this political season, we encourage you to connect with one of our 14 locations locally. Many of our campuses are providing in-person conferences or classes to help you during this season. To find a campus near you, visit woodsidebible.org/locations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We may or may not have heard the word "lament" before. But what does it really mean? Even more, what does it mean for us when it comes to suffering or struggle? Are we allowed to be angry, even angry at God, when things don't go as we expected? Today on Everyday Theology, Brandon shares with us how lament can be a good thing and how it can help us in times of discouragement. Be sure to check it out!ResourcesLament for a Son | https://bit.ly/47oVbYsLearning the Song of Lament | https://bit.ly/4graNhYSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are you afraid of? We're all afraid of something. Sometimes it's completely irrational, or very rational and real. Either way, our fear can control us. So how do we combat fear? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Ravae talks about what God says about fear and how we can rely on Him to overcome it. Be sure to check it out and drop your irrational fear in the comment section below!ResourcesCheck out our blogs on fear | https://bit.ly/4get9TBWhat God Says About Fear | https://bit.ly/4dZOiySSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People talk about "god" all the time. Now, is it the God of the Bible? Not always, but there is this general thought that some higher power might exist that many have just labeled "god." But how do we know that the God of the Bible, the one true God, really exists? And how can we share that with others who may be asking the same question? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Jacob shares the answer to this question and more! Check it out!ResourcesThe Case for Christ | https://bit.ly/475eiXfSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The use of pronouns is becoming more frequent in our culture today. We see it on email signatures. We are asked about our preferred pronouns on doctor's forms. Our servers at restaurants will wear them on their name tags. We know that as believers, we are called to share and show the love of Christ to ALL PEOPLE because we are all created by God. But how do we do that while we navigate convictions we have surrounding questions such as this? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Jacob, Ravae, and Brandon continue their conversation about pronouns and provide some practical steps as you discern this topic in your own life. Check it out!If you haven't checked out part one of this conversation, click the link below in our "resources" section!ResourcesShould Christians Use Pronouns, Part One | https://bit.ly/4cGTmaqLoving Your LGBTQ+ Neighbor: Resources | https://bit.ly/3XHOC0pSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let's be real; it's hard to pray for any length of time without a random thought creeping in. Did I take the clothes out of the dryer? Did I finish that email I needed to send? I need to make sure I add this to the grocery list. All these things and more can easily distract us when we are trying to spend time talking to God. So, how can we combat distractions? On this episode of Everyday Theology, Ravae shares three tips to help combat distraction during prayer.ResourcesCheck out all our blogs and reading lists on prayer | https://bit.ly/3WCpllWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.