Podcast appearances and mentions of lisa harper

Join the mission! Visit donate.accessmore.com to help fund more episodes and shows like this. During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology after the initial belly laughs we dive pretty deep – as is often the case with BPT - into a theme that's been my heartbeat for the last several years, which is what it really means to live a Jesus-shaped life. To imitate Jesus authentically, not just with religious language and ethical ideology. Theology is anything but sterile subject matter, y'all – it was meant to be lived, not simply learned - because God isn't a proposition to be examined, He's a triune personhood with whom we get to engage! So please get yourself a yummy iced latte, and come hang out on the porch with us…we're really glad you're here!

In celebration of Mother's Day this month, Ruth's sitting down to talk about the wild and wonderful journey of motherhood with a handful of friends in various stages of life. Listen in as Lisa shares her journey into motherhood, how she learned to trust God in the dark and therole gratitude plays in her life. Grab a cup of coffee (or some chips and queso!) and prepare to be encouraged! Resources mentioned:A Jesus-Shaped Life by Lisa HarperBack Porch Theology Podcastlisaharper.org | @lisadharper

Lisa Harper joins Kirk Cameron for a discussion surrounding the biggest misconceptions about theology and how it truly reveals God's desire for community with us. She shares the purpose behind her newest book, "A Jesus Shaped Life," and discusses how to approach theology from a relational perspective. Don't miss these informative interviews on Takeaways with Kirk Cameron on TBN! Missed the last episode? Listen in as Shane Pruitt exposes the cultural lies that many Christians have adopted as Gospel. ⁠⁠⁠⁠WATCH Takeaways with Kirk Cameron episodes for free on TBN+⁠⁠⁠⁠! Each episode of Takeaways with Kirk Cameron features knowledgeable guests having a respectful and thoughtful conversation surrounding topics that are impacting our society every day. Kirk's hope is that you will walk away from this show with practical steps on how to better your family, your community, and your nation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vote Back Porch Theology for Podcast Impact Award at the K-LOVE Fan Awards! Vote here: KLOVEFanAwards.com! Today's conversation on Back Porch Theology is an encore with Natalie Grant and Bernie Herms because we simply could fit all the wisdom bombs they dropped regarding hanging onto hope when the miracle you prayed for seems delayed into one episode! Plus, since we've had lots of DM's and e-mails from y'all requesting content on how to have more Jesus-shaped relationships, we thought it'd be a good idea to ask Nat and Bernie a few questions about what they've learned from 20+ years of marriage, especially given the added stress of extensive travel, public scrutiny, and infertility. We're so glad you're here on the porch with us! Save 25% off an annual subscription to Dwell here.

This Mother's Day, Lisa Harper brings an inspiring message for anyone who has ever felt overlooked, disqualified, or broken. Through the story of two courageous midwives in Exodus, we are reminded that God delights in using unlikely people to accomplish extraordinary things. No matter your story, it's not too late—your “yes” to God could be the beginning of something beautiful.

This Mother's Day, Lisa Harper brings an inspiring message for anyone who has ever felt overlooked, disqualified, or broken. Through the story of two courageous midwives in Exodus, we are reminded that God delights in using unlikely people to accomplish extraordinary things. No matter your story, it's not too late—your “yes” to God could be the beginning of something beautiful.

This Mother's Day, Lisa Harper brings an inspiring message for anyone who has ever felt overlooked, disqualified, or broken. Through the story of two courageous midwives in Exodus, we are reminded that God delights in using unlikely people to accomplish extraordinary things. No matter your story, it's not too late—your “yes” to God could be the beginning of something beautiful.

This Mother's Day, Lisa Harper brings an inspiring message for anyone who has ever felt overlooked, disqualified, or broken. Through the story of two courageous midwives in Exodus, we are reminded that God delights in using unlikely people to accomplish extraordinary things. No matter your story, it's not too late—your “yes” to God could be the beginning of something beautiful.

Vote Back Porch Theology for Podcast Impact Award at the K-LOVE Fan Awards! Vote here: KLOVEFanAwards.com! During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology, I have the absolute delight of diving deep into some real-life stuff with two dear friends, Natalie Grant, and her husband, Bernie Herms. Unless you're living off the grid and are listening to BPT through a coconut and dental floss, you've no doubt heard Natalie's stellar voice because she's been a recording artist for over twenty years and has more awards – including multiple female artist of the year awards – than you could fit in the back of a truck. And Bernie's success as a music producer is every bit as extraordinary as Nat's; he's also been honored with a plethora of accolades, including several Grammys. If you feel like you're running low on hope this season because the miracle you've been trusting God for hasn't happened yet, Nat and Bernie's story is going to provide both empathy and encouragement and will help reframe our perspectives regarding God's sovereignty and our expectancy. Lisa Harper's Luke Study is available here. Save 25% off an annual subscription to Dwell here.

In this vulnerable and hope-filled episode, bestselling author and theologian Lisa Harper joins Ginny Yurich to explore one of the most pressing questions of our time: does past pain disqualify us from future purpose? With her signature blend of humor, warmth, and depth, Lisa shares her powerful adoption story, how trauma shaped her early years, and the way God met her in the darkest places to bring about redemption. From being told she shouldn't become a mother because of her history of abuse to becoming a single parent through adoption in her 50s, Lisa offers hard-won wisdom and a message of restoration for anyone who's ever felt disqualified by their past. Together, Lisa and Ginny unpack deep theological truths in a way that's accessible, practical, and deeply personal. They discuss the theology of tears, the beauty of community, and how diving into Scripture with curiosity (and even a little queso) can radically transform your life. This conversation is for the one who's weary, the one who's healing, and the one who's wondering if there's still a beautiful future ahead. Spoiler: there is. ** Get your copy of A Jesus Shaped Life here Learn more about Lisa and all she has to offer (including her podcast!) here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Y'all get ready because my friend Lisa Harper is here! She's one of my favorite teachers and today we're talking about being lifelong learners, the kindness of God, and what we love about Jesus. Her brand new book, A Jesus Shaped Life, comes out tomorrow and I kept wanting to slow down and re-read and underline because it's just so deep and special.   We're also going to dive into our question in our TSF Seasons Guidebook today: How do I rest in this season? If you're following along we're on page 51.  . . . . . You're invited to read through the Gospels with us during the month of May. We've got a whole reading group of friends joining us and can listen along with us over on the Let's Read the Gospels podcast, so make sure you're subscribed. We're also going to be reading in the order that's in the Let's Read the Gospels Guided Journal, so you choose to just listen, or just read and journal along with us OR DO BOTH. It's totally up to you! We also have a facebook group for all of us who are reading together!  . . . . . Want to watch this episode? Watch on your Spotify app, or head on over to our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe! . . . . . Thank you to our sponsors! BetterHelp: Visit BetterHelp.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to get 10% off your first month. WayFair: Shop a huge selection of outdoor furniture online and this summer, get outside with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com now. Our Place: My friends save up to 30% off sitewide now through May 12th at fromourplace.com/TSF.  Jolie: Head to jolieskinco.com/THATSOUNDSFUN to try it out for yourself with FREE shipping. Hiya Health: Receive 50% off your first order at hiyahealth.com/THATSOUNDSFUN.  Geviti: Use code TSF for 20% off your first three months of membership at GoGeviti.com to learn more about how you can start optimizing your health without leaving home today. Location based restrictions apply. If you'd like to partner with Annie as a sponsor for the That Sounds Fun podcast, fill out our Advertise With Us form! . . . . . Sign up to receive the AFD Week In Review email and ask questions to future guests! #thatsoundsfunpodcast . . . . . NYTimes bestselling Christian author, speaker, and host of popular Christian podcast, That Sounds Fun Podcast, Annie F. Downs shares with you some of her favorite things: new books, faith conversations, entertainers not to miss, and interviews with friends. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology we're wrapping up a 3-part series on Zephaniah in a series we called “The Theology of Compassionate Consequences”. It may initially sound like an oxymoron – a contradiction in terms - to pair the words “compassionate” and “consequences” together, kind of like “jumbo shrimp” or “act naturally” or “climb down”. It begs the question, “If God really is unconditionally loving, then why do we have to suffer consequences at all?” Here's the deal y'all, God's parameters aren't punitive or pejorative…they are always promissory and protective. Psalm 16:5 says it best, “His boundary lines for me have fallen in pleasant places.” Alli, Dr. Howard & I are so happy you've chosen to carve out this time to hang out on the porch with us, please grab a cup of coffee and your Bible, then feel free to lean back and put your feet up. This is a safe place to lean further into the unconditional love of our Creator Redeemer. Lisa Harper's Luke Study is available here.

Theology is not just for academics.    Bible teacher, podcaster, and author of A Jesus-Shaped Life: How Diving Deeper into Theology Can Transform Us and Our World with the Radical Kindness of God, Lisa Harper, delves into theology, which she says can strengthen a relationship with Jesus.    Her new book connects the world of theology and the miracle of Jesus to help us understand His radical kindness and accessibility. She shares personal stories about her connection with faith and the importance of bringing your whole self to God.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Writing doesn't need to be fancy, it just needs to be honest. In this episode, we talk about what happens when you pour out your story - not to impress, but to connect. Bob, Kim, and Lisa remind us that God isn't looking for polished voices, just willing ones. Whether you're in the middle of motherhood or the middle of a manuscript, there's something here for you. Connect with Lisa: instagram.com/lisadharper/A Jesus Shaped Life: https://www.lisaharper.org/a-jesus-shaped-life Connect with Bob: instagram.com/bobgoff Connect with Kim: instagram.com/kimberly.stuart.writes --- Learn more about Writing Coaching with Bob and Kim: bobgoff.com/writing-coaching Come join Bob and Kim at the Oaks for a Writer's Workshop. Wherever you are in the writing process they are ready to help you figure out your next steps! Visit bobgoff.com/events to learn more.

Writing doesn't need to be fancy, it just needs to be honest. In this episode, we talk about what happens when you pour out your story - not to impress, but to connect. Bob, Kim, and Lisa remind us that God isn't looking for polished voices, just willing ones. Whether you're in the middle of motherhood or the middle of a manuscript, there's something here for you. Connect with Lisa: instagram.com/lisadharper/A Jesus Shaped Life: https://www.lisaharper.org/a-jesus-shaped-life Connect with Bob: instagram.com/bobgoff Connect with Kim: instagram.com/kimberly.stuart.writes --- Learn more about Writing Coaching with Bob and Kim: bobgoff.com/writing-coaching Come join Bob and Kim at the Oaks for a Writer's Workshop. Wherever you are in the writing process they are ready to help you figure out your next steps! Visit bobgoff.com/events to learn more.

[Dr. Lisa Harper is speaking at the Chosen Women's Conference at Seacoast Church in September 2025. Click this link to purchase an online pass, which includes livestream access to all sessions and exclusive content for online pass holders]On this episode, speaker, author, and theologian scholar, Dr. Lisa Harper, joins hosts Lynne Stroy and Joey Svendsen to talk about her new book, A Jesus-Shaped Life: How Diving Deeper into Theology Can Transform Us and Our World with the Radical Kindness of God. In her book, Lisa shares personal stories, with a fair share of humor, to reveal how the Holy Spirit has shown her that following Jesus should cause her to become more like him. Its pages theologically support this revelation and explain why studying the Scriptures should make us all more like Jesus. Along the way, Lisa shares fascinating, and perhaps surprising context behind the terminology "Word of God," why it's important to remember that the Bible isn't part of the Trinity, and what believers miss out on by not maintaining a truly restful posture with their maker.  On this Episode: Dr. Lisa Harper /  Instagram / Book / Podcast / WebsiteLynne Stroy, host / Instagram Joey Svendsen, host / Instagram Luke Gaikwad, host / Instagram Bri McCleod, host / Instagram Producer/Editor: Joey SvendsenSound Engineer/Editor: Katelyn VandiverWe have a YouTube Channel for videos of all episodes since Jan. 2024. Also we have a Facebook Page for listeners to keep up with the latest news on "Things You Won't Hear on Sunday" Podcast. Be a Patron of the podcast

During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology, the second in a series on God's severe mercy – which is kind of like saying His divine discipline ALWAYS takes place under a canopy of grace - we're swimming in the deep end of a colorful, albeit very concise book in the Old Testament called Zephaniah. His overarching theme regarding how our crooked hearts will consistently lead us off cliffs without God's compassionate intervention reminds me of something one of my favorite authors, Brennan Manning, wrote: “If we gloss over our selfishness and rationalize the evil within us, we can only pretend we are sinners and therefore only pretend we have been forgiven.” Come hang out on the porch with Alli, Dr. Howard, and me. Kerygma Sale! Invite a friend or two and take advantage of a $75 discount on two tickets or $150 off three tickets by entering the codes BIGBIBLES2 or BIGBIBLES3. Visit https://www.kerygmasummit.com/ Lisa Harper's Luke Study is available here.

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes Bible teacher, author, and podcaster Lisa Harper for a rich, heartfelt conversation about her new book A Jesus-Shaped Life. Together, they explore how diving into theology isn’t about elitism or intellect—it’s about intimacy. Lisa shares stories that are as moving as they are humorous (yes, snot and sanctification are both on the table), revealing how theological reflection is meant to be lived out in community, kindness, and Christlikeness. From Leviticus to the Trinity, from doctrinal missteps to the presence of God, this episode reminds us that theology done well brings us closer to Jesus and shapes us to reflect His radical love in the world. Whether you're a seminary student or someone whose eyes glaze over at the word "pericope," this episode will meet you where you are—and invite you deeper.

Lisa is a world renown speaker and writer with over 30 years of church and para-church ministry leadership experience. She holds a Masters in Theology from Covenant Theological Seminary and is pursuing a Doctorate in Ministry from Denver Seminary. She's the co-host of the popular “Back Porch Theology” podcast and the author of several books including her most recent book: A Jesus Shaped Life: How Diving Deeper into Theology Can Transform Us and Our World with the Radical Kindness of God.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology – the first in a series of three – we're going to delve into some pretty spicy subject matter in the colorful Old Testament book of Zephaniah regarding the overt rebellion of God's people. We're going to examine how our spiritual ancestors effectively thumbed their noses at God's holiness, turned their backs on His kindness, and went out and did whatever nasty, selfish stuff their crooked little hearts desired. Plus, they did so despite His gracious warning that there would be serious consequences for their wicked behavior. My guess is things are about to get a little hot up in here so you might want to bring an iced latte to the porch today! Kerygma Sale! Invite a friend or two and take advantage of a $75 discount on two tickets or $150 off three tickets by entering the codes BIGBIBLES2 or BIGBIBLES3. Visit https://www.kerygmasummit.com/ Lisa Harper's Luke Study is available here.

Save 25% off an annual subscription to Dwell here. During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology we're going to bring this 4- part series on prayer to a close, which is kind of like taking the very last bite of the very last brownie in a pan. It's left me wanting more. A few nights ago, I found myself rereading some of the material I'd studied on prayer in preparation for this series and got lost in an old book my dad gave me many years ago by a saint named, E.M. Bounds. He was an attorney and Civil War soldier, who then became a pastor after being seriously wounded in the war, and ultimately a devoted practitioner and prolific author on prayer. I'd almost forgotten that great man of prayer was the pastor of a church right here in Franklin, TN in the late 1800's, just a few miles from our house. So I drove past his old church, the First United Methodist Church on Fifth Avenue yesterday, and pondered a few of his observations on prayer: • Prayer is not learned in a classroom but in the closet.• Prayer breaks all bars, dissolves all chains, opens all prisons, and widens all straits by which God's saints have been held.• I would rather have prayer without words than words without prayer. And finally it was E.M. Bounds who described Christoformity as the consummate shape of prayer, “When we see how the life of Jesus was but one of prayer, then we must conclude that to be like Jesus is to pray like Jesus.” We're calling today's episode - our swan song on The Theology of Prayer - “How God Himself Said Grace.” So please grab a cup of coffee, your Bible, and a prayer journal – or my favorite thing to write notes on, which is a neon sticky pad – and come hang out on the porch with us. We're really glad you're here. Watch the Ark in the Darkness HERE. Learn more about The Chosen HERE. Kerygma Sale! Invite a friend or two and take advantage of a $75 discount on two tickets or $150 off three tickets by entering the codes BIGBIBLES2 or BIGBIBLES3. Visit https://www.kerygmasummit.com/

Save 25% off an annual subscription to Dwell here. Today's episode on Back Porch Theology is really special. I mean, all of them are really special. It's kind of like choosing your favorite ice cream flavor, but this feels more like a real family episode, because I get to bring in some friends from the Found Collective. Found Collective is a new event for women to lean more fully into Jesus with Bible teachers and worship leaders. I've got three of my dear friends from the Found Collective, Hosanna Wong, amazing Bible teacher, spoken word artist, Kari Jobe, who's like a little sister, and one of my favorite modern-day psalmists, and Taya Gaukrodger. Taya is also just an amazing artist and worship leader, and we are just kind of hanging out on the porch talking about Jesus, talking about salvation and all that He's done for us. So, this is a little more testimonial than some of our other episodes, which means I hope you are wearing stretchy pants or something comfortable. I hope you've got some sweet tea or your favorite coffee. We want you to lean back, put your feet up, and just enjoy this time of leaning into the embrace of Jesus more fully on the porch. We are so glad you're here! For tickets to Found: Please visit https://foundcollective.com/ Watch the Ark in the Darkness HERE. Learn more about The Chosen HERE. Kerygma Sale! Invite a friend or two and take advantage of a $75 discount on two tickets or $150 off three tickets by entering the codes BIGBIBLES2 or BIGBIBLES3. Visit https://www.kerygmasummit.com/

In this episode, we're joined by the incomparable Lisa Harper – a renowned Bible teacher, theologian, and storyteller. With decades of ministry experience, a master's in theological studies, and a doctoral dissertation underway, Lisa brings an unmatched blend of academic depth and heartfelt authenticity.  Together, we explore how theology, far from being dry or academic, transforms lives as a vibrant, joy-filled conversation about God. Lisa also opens up about the personal decisions and challenges that have shaped her understanding of faith, intimacy with Jesus, and the beauty of living a "Jesus-shaped life."  Whether you're well-versed in theology or new to the conversation, this episode is for you. Join us as we learn from Lisa's story, humor, and unmatched ability to make biblical truths accessible for everyone!

Save 25% off an annual subscription to Dwell here. What happens with the supernatural starts to become more natural? During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology we're peeling off whatever emotional Spanx are left and getting totally vulnerable in the praxis of prayer. This is our third conversation in a 4-part series we've titled The Theology of Prayer. Our fervent hope and prayer is that the time we get to spend on the porch today will help demystify the glorious sacrament of prayer and serve as an encouraging catalyst for all of us to become more confident and consistent in our conversations with God. So please grab a cup of coffee – although decaf might be the best option since we're going to learn a few anxiety-pulverizing prayers – your Bible, and a prayer journal if you have one and come exhale into the kindness of King Jesus with us. We're glad you're here. Watch the Ark in the Darkness HERE. Learn more about The Chosen HERE. Kerygma Sale! Invite a friend or two and take advantage of a $75 discount on two tickets or $150 off three tickets by entering the codes BIGBIBLES2 or BIGBIBLES3. Visit https://www.kerygmasummit.com/

How can we maintain our hope in Jesus while waiting on Him? In the first message of our new series, From Death to Life, Lisa Harper explores the gap between God's timing and our own. As we place our trust in Jesus, we can experience His peace, confident that our hope is secure in Him—even when it feels like miracles are taking longer than expected.

It's my birthday!

How can we maintain our hope in Jesus while waiting on Him? In the first message of our new series, From Death to Life, Lisa Harper explores the gap between God's timing and our own. As we place our trust in Jesus, we can experience His peace, confident that our hope is secure in Him—even when it feels like miracles are taking longer than expected.

How can we maintain our hope in Jesus while waiting on Him? In the first message of our new series, From Death to Life, Lisa Harper explores the gap between God's timing and our own. As we place our trust in Jesus, we can experience His peace, confident that our hope is secure in Him—even when it feels like miracles are taking longer than expected.

How can we maintain our hope in Jesus while waiting on Him? In the first message of our new series, From Death to Life, Lisa Harper explores the gap between God's timing and our own. As we place our trust in Jesus, we can experience His peace, confident that our hope is secure in Him—even when it feels like miracles are taking longer than expected.

How do you pray? During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology, we're rolling up our sleeves in this second of a 4-part series on prayer and getting practical because we're going to talk about the awesomely vast and varied praxis of prayer. In my experience, far too many of us have been taught - overtly or tacitly - that there's one “right” way to pray and unfortunately the implication we perceived is that we're a square peg in the round hole of prayer and don't know how to “correctly” commune with God. The prayers recorded in the redemptive history of God's people are wonderfully diverse. There are short prayers and long prayers and quiet petitions and shouted pleas, they reflect both the rapture and the rupture of real people experiencing real life! What IS a common denominator in the conversations people had with our Creator in Scripture is the awareness that we humans can't make it by ourselves - we NEED His divine help! So please grab a cup of coffee or glass of sweet tea or thimble full of wheat grass juice, a couple of snacks, your Bible and a prayer journal if you have one - otherwise a couple of sticky notes will do - and come hang out on the porch with us. We're really glad you're here. Watch the Ark in the Darkness HERE. Find out more from Hope For The Heart Here. Learn more about The Chosen HERE. Kerygma Sale! Invite a friend or two and take advantage of a $75 discount on two tickets or $150 off three tickets by entering the codes BIGBIBLES2 or BIGBIBLES3. Visit https://www.kerygmasummit.com/

Ever wonder why do we pray? Today's conversation on Back Porch Theology is the first of a four-part series we're really excited and passionate about called The Theology of Prayer. Alli, Dr. Howard and I have talked and dreamed and pondered and of course prayed about doing a series on prayer for years, and I think the main reason it's taken us so long to finally record this series is because the glorious rich, nuanced, profound, practical and transformative experience of communing with our Creator Redeemer is kind of like the mouth-watering brisket they serve at Buccees. Karl Barth – one of my favorite theologians wrote this, “To clasp the hands in prayer is the beginning of an uprising against the disorder of the world.” Isn't that good? I'm not nearly as wise as those saints but in my experience of being a Christ-follower for more than half a century now, I've found prayer to be the very scaffolding of my security and contentment. At this point in my life, prayer is as necessary and life-giving as breathing. We're really looking forward to the next couple of episodes and we're so grateful to get to share them with y'all. Watch the Ark in the Darkness HERE. Find out more from Hope For The Heart Here. Learn more about The Chosen HERE.

Sooner or later, life gets difficult. Then what do you do? Lisa Harper shares how the Lord brought her through a devastating set of circumstances, and how she discovered His blessings on the “other side of tragedy.”

During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology, the very last stop in our topsy-turvy tour through Judges, we're going to hang out with a hot mess of a man who was my favorite character in biblical narrative – apart from Jesus, of course – when I was a little girl. His name was Samson and I'm not sure why I was so captivated by him when I was a kid because for most of his life, he was a rebel without a clue. Although Sam's birth announcement was engraved by an angel, and he was doted on by good and godly parents who suffered through decades of infertility before they got pregnant with him, he rejected their morality and devotion to God and went careening in the opposite direction. I'm not going to spoil the audacious end of his story in this preview, but if you've been on the porch for the last few episodes, you know that divine redemption is always lurking in the darkest alleys of humanity. Dr. Tim Keller explained it beautifully, “The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope.” We're serving up extra portions of hope on the porch today, so we're delighted you've chosen to pull up a chair to chow down with us. Please grab your favorite beverage, and a Bible and let's dive into this divine love story and remind our prone-to-wander selves of the miraculous redemption available to us because God's faithfulness has always been weightier than our flaws! Watch the Ark in the Darkness HERE. Find out more from Hope For The Heart Here. Learn more about The Chosen HERE.

Ever feel like you're working really hard and somehow everyone else is walking in the blessing you're praying for?Or maybe you just feel unseen or anonymous and you feel your flesh crying out for significance?Or maybe you're tired of waiting and waiting and waiting to hold a promise that has yet to come to fruition?We dive into this very thing — Allison talks about what it means to choose a life hidden in Christ In a world that equates significance with being seen and excellence with exposure..How do we stop conforming and start embracing the FULLNESS of life exactly where we are? Allison Allen is a speaker, author, creator, podcast host, and a brilliant communicator of the Gospel.Her greatest desire is to include the themes of purpose, value, and identity as she helps people encounter the wild compassion of God. She has written several books and her most recent study, “Hidden”, dives deep into the truths discussed in this podcast.She serves as the wing woman on Lisa Harper's “Backporch theology” podcast, where their greatest hope is to help people understand the Bible in a substantive but not stuffy way.Learn more about Allison and all her life-giving products here: https://www.allisonallen.netFollow along with Allison on instagram here: www.instagram.com/allisonallen

Save 25% off an annual subscription to Dwell here. During today's podcast on Back Porch Theology we're exploring one of the greatest leaders in the history of God's people who just so happens to be a chick named Deb! She was both a judge and a prophetess. Which means she was kind of like a president and pastor rolled into one - the entire prone-to-wander nation of Israel turned to her for leadership, wisdom, and spiritual guidance. And another unlikely heroine makes her debut during Deborah's timeline, too. Her name was Jael and let me tell you, that woman was LEGIT - she could have held her own against a burly, tatted MMA fighter twice her size! Even though these women's stories take place long before David's in redemptive history, they illustrate what God said to Samuel about Davey when he was anointed to be the future king of Israel before he even started shaving, “People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” In other words, God delights in using misfits in miraculous ways. Don't forget, the book of Judges was a bleak chapter in the history of God's people – there was no king on the throne, the Word of God was not being taught in the land, and most people were doing whatever crooked little hearts desired. It looked as if their toes were hanging over the edge of obscurity. And based on their rebellion and idolatry, they deserved to be fried into greased spots of oblivion by some divine lightning bolt. Instead, our Heavenly Father inserts a couple of unlikely heroes into their drama, which results in an epic military victory as well as a national revival. The brightest mornings often follow the darkest nights when we give God the sole authorship of our story. It a great day to hang out on the porch, so please grab your favorite beverage, your Bible, and a snack and come prop your feet up with us. We love getting to spend this time with you. Watch the Ark in the Darkness HERE. Learn more about The Chosen HERE.

Author and Podcaster Lisa Harper joins Susie to talk about her podcast "Back Porch Theology". She talks about the inspiration for the podcast and a couple theological terms (hermeneutics and eschatology) that help us understand our view of God and how we approach Him and His Word. Originally aired February 8, 2022 Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: click here

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Join the mission! Visit donate.accessmore.com to help fund more episodes and shows like this. During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology we're diving into our second in a series called The Theology of ROAR that explores the cyclical, increasingly damaging nature of unconfessed sin. Unbridled rebellion is like a hoard of hungry termites on a piece of damp wood, it eats away at our emotional and relational integrity until there's nothing left but dust and regret. But here's the great news, throughout human history God has consistently interrupted the chaos of our rebellion with His compassionate spirit. And when Holy Spirit permeates our conscious, we become not simply cognizant that we're unwell, we become aware that our Creator is also our Healer. Contrary to the flawed reasoning of many in modern culture, a heightened awareness of our own sin nature doesn't lead to depression, instead it shifts our fallenness into the realm of real hope! It's what Jesus was talking about in Mark chapter two when He said, “Healthy people don't need a doctor – sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” Today we're going to get up close and personal with a dude who did just that. He started out as a weenie but ended up an epic warrior in God's kingdom, once again proving that you can start bad and end up awesome when grace invades your story. We're so grateful you've carved out this time to hang out on the porch with us; getting to lean into the unconditional love of God with y'all has become a habit we hope we don't ever have to break! Which reminds me, if you haven't already, will you please subscribe to BPT on whatever app you use to listen to podcasts? Your subscriptions ensure that Alli, Dr. Howard and I get to keep doing this podcast, so thank you very, very much.

Join the mission! Visit donate.accessmore.com to help fund more episodes and shows like this. During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology we're diving into a new series called The Theology of ROAR – that's an acronym for Rebellion, Oppression, Asking for God's Forgiveness, and Restoration. And you're going to need to buckle your seat belts for this one because we're taking an exegetical tour through a really tumultuous time in redemptive history when there was no king on the throne, the Word of God was not being taught in the land, and people were doing whatever their crooked little hearts desired. It was essentially the Wild West of idolatry and rebellion, which quickly led to bondage and oppression, and finally – when God's image bearers were sick of being flat on their face in the stinky muck of their consequences – they looked up and asked Him to forgive them. And He did…over and over again. Fortunately for humanity, the Bible is riddled with true stories that illustrate how a thimbleful of sincere repentance has the power to unleash an avalanche of divine restoration. Sin is anything but innocuous, y'all – it robs us of peace, shoplifts our joy, fertilizes addictive and narcissistic behavioral patterns, which erode trust and intimacy with our friends and families, and worst still sin creates heartbreaking distance between us and the God who loves us more than we can ask or imagine. And yet His grace is greater still. There is no confessed sin so grievous that it has the power to permanently catapult outside of our Savior's ability to redeem the ruins of our lives into something truly beautiful. Where there's real repentance, there is always restoration. Remember how Holy Spirit often manifests as wind in both the Old and New Testament canons? Well, I think some saints are going to get a fresh gust of it in their sagging sails today; no matter what lies the enemy has been whispering to you in the dark when you feel completely alone and like the last drop of hope is draining out of the colander of your heart, I promise, this doesn't have to be the end of your story. Today's going to be a good day on the porch and we're very grateful we get to spend it with you. So please grab a cup of coffee and your Bible and come lean into some fresh grace with us.

Learn more about The Promise and Power of Easter here. During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology we're going to dive deep into a miraculous, modern story that highlights how God can take what seem to be the absolute ruins of a life and restore them into a spiritual leader. Sometimes we forget that Abraham was a lunar worshipper before God tapped him to be the father of a theocracy; that Moses was guilty of homicide before God tapped him to lead His people out of captivity; that Elijah had a massive meltdown under a broom tree after witnessing God's powerful presence on Mt. Carmel; or that John the Baptist – the forerunner of our Messiah – literally doubted the divinity of Jesus when he was languishing in prison. Biblical narrative is riddled with stories about saints who lost their way, only to run headlong into divine mercy in the middle of literal and proverbial deserts. Playwright Oscar Wilde – whose reputation was much more playboy than choirboy – sure spoke the truth when he wrote,“Every Saint Has a Past and Every Sinner Has a Future.” The testimony you're about to hear is a poignant antidote for shame and loneliness…it will expose ugly, insidious lies like, “I'm too dirty or too damaged to deserve true love” to the light of the Gospel where they'll shrivel up and die. Frankly, some of the most radiant believers I've ever met – certainly the most authentic and grateful Christ-followers – are the ones with the most brokenness in their backstory. In light of John's proclamation in Revelation 12 – that the enemy is defeated by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony – I believe the next forty minutes has enough tangible hope to help more than a few begin to break free from heavy emotional bondage. However, some of the subject matter we're going to cover isn't suited for little ears so if you normally listen in the car with your kiddos in the backseat, please wait until those precious punkins' aren't within earshot to pull your chair up to the porch. And when you do so, please bring a large cup of coffee, a few of your favorite snacks, and your Bible - then feel free to exhale and prop your feet up because this is a safe place to relax and lean further into the unconditional love of Jesus, no matter what your backstory is.

Christine Caine is a speaker, activist, and best-selling author. She and her husband, Nick, founded the anti-human trafficking organization The A21 Campaign. They also founded Propel Women, an initiative that is dedicated to coming alongside women all over the globe to activate their God-given purpose. Her most recent book is: The Promise and Power of Easter (Bible Study Guide): Captivated by the Cross and Resurrection of Jesus, w/ Lisa Harper. Check out the A21 Campaign: https://www.a21.org Register for the Exiles conference (April 3-5, 2025): https://theologyintheraw.com/exiles25/ -- If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel! Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw Or you can support me directly through Venmo: @Preston-Sprinkle-1 Visit my personal website: https://www.prestonsprinkle.com For questions about faith, sexuality & gender: https://www.centerforfaith.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about The Promise and Power of Easter here. We can hardly believe we've come to the end of this series called the Theology of Worship! I hope it's encouraged you as much as it's encouraged us. Sometimes I found myself white-knuckling it in order to hang onto love, joy, peace and hope during all the public discord and rancor of 2024, so it's been really lovely to start out 2025 with this deep dive into worship. It's been like an oasis, where much like the woman at the well I've encountered Living Water and have experienced renewal that I wasn't even aware my heart was yearning for until it found me. Modern theologian John Ortberg wisely said, “I need to worship because without it I lose a sense of wonder and gratitude and plod through life with blinders on.” We're wrapping up this series with a super special bow because Jeremy and Adie Camp let Alli and me twist their arms and they've come back to help us seal that sense of wonder and gratitude that comes with being a fully devoted worshipper of Jesus Christ. So please grab a cup of coffee, your Bible, a journal and make sure you're wearing your comfy pants because today's going to be like a spiritual spa day for your heart. Thanks so much for pulling a chair up to the porch with us, we're glad you're here.

Learn more about The Promise and Power of Easter here. Find out more about CH Ministries here Today's conversation on Back Porch Theology is the second to last in our series The Theology of Worship, and it's a really special moment for Alli and me because we get to share two dear friends with y'all for the first time here on BPT, Jeremy and Adie Camp. Of course, many of you are probably already familiar with Jeremy because while he's only 46, he's already a legend in Christian music with over 6 million albums sold, 44 #1 singles, and more than 2 billion streams. And many of you probably watched the 2020 movie, I Still Believe, which tells the unforgettable story of how Jeremy's first wife, Melissa, died of cancer when she was very young, and how that tragic loss tested his faith, taught him how to hang onto the goodness of God when life is anything but good, and ultimately led him to Adie. The most believable believers I've ever met are those who've waded honestly through woundedness without letting go of God's hand. Those who've trudged through dark nights of the soul only to come out on the other side trusting Him more fully, despite still having questions that will never be answered this side of Glory. Jeremy and Adie are those kind of people. Alli and I love them and can unequivocally say that we see Jesus more clearly as a result of their friendship. I can almost guarantee that you will too after hanging out with them today so please grab your favorite beverage, a couple snacks, and your Bible and come camp out on the porch with the Camps and us!

How can we bear God's image in community? This weekend, author and speaker Lisa Harper begins our Made For Each Other series by reminding us that Jesus did not intend for us to be alone—He created us to love one another in togetherness to display His affections for us!

How can we bear God's image in community? This weekend, author and speaker Lisa Harper begins our Made For Each Other series by reminding us that Jesus did not intend for us to be alone—He created us to love one another in togetherness to display His affections for us!

Learn more about The Promise and Power of Easter here. Find out more about CH Ministries here Today's conversation on Back Porch Theology is the fourth in our series on worship and is part two of last week's episode with Darlene Zschech, who many consider to be the mother of modern day worship music. Brooke Ligertwood ~ who's one of the most anointed people I've ever had the pure joy of being led to the throne room of Jesus by and whose songs are also beloved by millions of Christ followers around the world ~ was mentored by Darlene in Australia and Brooke not only refers to her as a mother of worship music, she explains that her longevity of service to the church and devotion to God and His people make her accolades pale in comparison. Because while Darlene paved the way for how so many of us now praise our Creator Redeemer in public sanctuaries, as well as the privacy of our cars and kitchens, she carries her calling with tangible humility. But don't mistake her humility for weakness because she continues to tutor the body of Christ in how worship is a weapon through which we can push back the darkness and hang on to the goodness of God when our circumstances are anything but. Y'all better strap yourself into your rockers on the porch today, because our Aussie "Aunty" is about to take us to church! So please grab an extra large cup of coffee, as well as your Bible and get ready to have your spiritual sword sharpened because you're going to be inspired to plunge it into the scaly heart of that evil dragon, satan, in short order. I truly believe today's going to be a turning point for some of you who've almost given up hope that you'll survive ~ much less win ~ the battle that's currently raging in your heart and mind. We're so glad and so grateful you're here on the porch with us today ~ hang on, I promise fresh hope is right around the corner. He's got you...He has NOT abandoned you and He never will.

Find out more about CH Ministries here Click here to get a 25% discount on the Dwell Bible App. Okay I really need your help during today's conversation on BPT ~ which is part of a new series we started this year called "The Theology of Worship." And I'm playing my phone-a-friend card with all of you amazing backporchers because I have the wildly undeserved privilege of hanging out with one of my heroines of the faith and while I'm going to do my very best not to fan-girl since that's tacky and biblically indefensible, I can assure you I'm about to be discombobulated. Plus, when I'm around a saint with as much integrity and wisdom as Darlene Zschech, I tend to babble even more than usual so please pray for me and you might want to hover your finger above the fast forward icon so you can leapfrog over my wind-baggyness! Darlene Zschech is an Australian singer-songwriter, worship leader, author, and speaker. She and her husband Mark are the Senior Pastors of Hope Unlimited Church (HopeUC) on the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia, which now has churches in the US and India. She's won more awards than you could fit in the back of a Ford F150 ~ including the Gospel Music Association's International Award for influence in praise and worship ~ and has recorded a slew of gold and platinum projects over the past three decades. She's probably the most well-known for writing and singing “Shout to the Lord,” a worship anthem that's been sung by millions and translated into multiple languages. However, when you meet Darlene it becomes immediately apparent that her kindness and humility actually dwarf her extraordinary musical gifts. Today is a really special, red-letter sort of day on the porch so please grab your favorite drink, some yummy snacks, your Bible, and a journal and come prop your feet up with me and "Darls." And don't forget to pray y'all, because I'm already feeling light headed!

Find out more about CH Ministries here Click here to get a 25% discount on the Dwell Bible App. Today's conversation on Back Porch Theology in our on-going series on the theology of worship is a continuation of last week because we had such an awesome time leaning into all that Scripture reveals Jesus to be, learning from each other's stories – especially the difficult chapters - and laughing that we simply had to have a part two of this conversation! Aren't you grateful that being serious about our faith and being serious about ourselves aren't synonymous? I thoroughly enjoy getting to spend time with people who are fully devoted to Jesus Christ but aren't full of themselves! And saints who feel free enough to laugh at themselves are my absolute favorite kind of people. Which aptly describes the girl gang we're hanging out with again today. Hope Darst, Tasha Layton, Hillary Scott and Rita Springer are too young to be called legends, but they have written and sung a multitude of songs that have shaped the musical landscape of worship. Between them they've won multiple Grammys and CMA's and Doves and KLove Fan Awards, and yet this foursome reeks humility. They are much like the Skinhorse in the story of the Velveteen Rabbit…life has worn them thin enough to recognize that whether they have a number one song or fall completely off the charts, Jesus is the only Hero of humanity's story and commercial success apart from intimacy with our Creator Redeemer is devoid of any real meaning. Mind you, as we continue to emphasize in this series, music is only one facet of how we worship as Christ followers – in fact, the Bible describes worship more as the posture of our hearts than the melody that falls out of our mouths. Which is why the theme of today's conversation is less about melodic tunes than it is about biblical truths. What does worship look like when we aren't singing or listening to Christian music? How do we maintain the posture of worshipping God when we're dealing with deep disappointment, disillusionment, or debilitating depression. Is it possible to have a broken heart and hands raised in praise at the same time? It's going to get raw and real today y'all, so please grab your Bible, a notebook, and some yummy snacks – I always find chocolate to be an excellent companion when taking raw and real adventures – and come give that great big, beautiful heart God placed in your chest some time and space to exhale on the porch with us. We're really, really glad you're here. Save on Dwell here Learn More about Upward Sports here

Find out more about CH Ministries here Click here to get a 25% discount on the Dwell Bible App. During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology, Alli and I are both bouncing with enthusiastic expectancy because we've gathered a phenomenal foursome of wise women whose hearts, minds, and ministries have been shaped by worship. Hope Darst has been leading worship – both in her home church and on stages around the world for decades, although unlike most artists she signed her first record deal at the age of 39 in 2019. Since then, she's penned several singles that have blessed millions of believers including Peace Be Still, Come Alive, and If the Lord Builds the House. Tasha Layton's vocational and life experience is crazy colorful – before coming to faith in Jesus Christ, she studied Buddhism and spent four years touring all over the world as a back-up vocalist for pop superstar Katy Perry. She's now a Christian music favorite and her latest single – Worship Through It – which is especially pertinent for today's conversation – was number one on the charts recently. Our third worship tutor today is Hillary Scott. If you're a country music fan, you're familiar with my dear friend Hillary because she's part of the platinum selling, multiple Grammy and CMA award-winning band, Lady A. What you might not know is that Hillary began her storied musical career as a worship leader and has never stopped using her pipes to point people to Jesus. Rounding out this fabulous foursome of guests on the porch today is Rita Springer. If you mention the name Rita Springer in the company of young worship leaders, it's likely one or two will involuntarily gasp because she's sort of like the Michael Jordan of worship leading. In addition to writing and recording songs for the church at large for the past 30+ years, Rita has also mentored hundreds of Christian artists and worship leaders around the world. Having Hope, Tasha, Hillary and Rita here together to dive into the theology of worship is the equivalent of having Muttiah Muralitharan and Richard Hadlee here to dive into the subject of bowling because they are two of the greatest professional bowlers the world has ever seen. Okay, maybe that wasn't the best analogy since bowling does seem to be more of a niche sport, but the bottom line is we've got a few of the most experienced and humble worship leaders of this generation gathered on the porch today to help us lean more fully into the embrace of Jesus, which is what shapes how we live and lead as Christ followers. I'm so excited about how God is going to reveal Himself to us today so please grab your Bible and your favorite beverage and your most comfortable chair and pull it up close to ours on the porch because believe me, you're going to want to hear every single word these saints share today. Save on Dwell here Learn More about Upward Sports here

Find out more about CH Ministries here Click here to get a 25% discount on the Dwell Bible App. Today's conversation on Back Porch Theology is all about the contextual biblical scaffolding for a series we're calling the Theology of Worship. But lest you think we're going to be talking about the three or four songs before a sermon or our preferred style of music, let me assure you this conversation isn't just for people who can carry a tune or for those who know how to navigate their Apple music ap! Frankly, our tendency to associate worship solely with music is like limiting ourselves to one food group for every single meal for the rest of our lives – I love Tex Mex y'all, but if I had to eat chips and queso three times a day, every day, for the rest of my life it would be sadly and unnecessarily reductive! In the Christian context, worship is so much wider and deeper and more comprehensive than a song list or a musical genre. Case in point, listen to what one of our favorite theologians here at BPT – Dr. N.T. Wright – says about the centrality of worship: All kingdom work is rooted in worship. Or, to put it the other way around, worshipping the God we see at work in Jesus is the most politically charged act we can ever perform. Christian worship decares that Jesus is Lord and that therefore, by strong implication, nobody else is. What's more, it doesn't just declare it as something to be believed, like the fact that the sun is hot or the sea wet. It commits the worshipper to allegiance, to following this Jesus, to being shaped and directed by him. Worshipping the God we see in Jesus orients our whole being, our imagination, our will, our hopes, and our fears away from the world where Mars, Mammon, and Aphrodite (violence, money, and sex) make absolute demands and punish anyone who resists. It orients us instead to a world in which love is stronger than death, the poor are promised the kingdom, and chastity (whether married or single) reflects the holiness and faithfulness of God himself. Acclaiming Jesus as Lord plants a flag that supersedes the flags of our nations, however “free” or “democratic” they may be. In other words, WORSHIP is the fruit and fuel of our faith, the flagpole we rally around as those who've been redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Worship is the very essence of our spiritual DNA. Just as a half dozen and six communicate the same number of eggs, to have faith in Jesus Christ and to be a worshipper should be synonymous. Worship isn't simply a verb for the musically inclined among us, it should be the passionate preoccupation of God's people. Okay, as you can tell we're pretty fired up today so you'd better grab a cup of something caffeinated and your Bible – unless you're listening to this while simultaneously trying to figure out how to increase the incline on the treadmill at the gym you just joined because you're determined to ditch the Spanx in 2025 – and come hang out on the porch with us for some genuine, digital community and hopefully some real encouragement. We're really grateful to get to spend this time hanging out with y'all. Save on Dwell hereLearn More about Upward Sports here