How do we guide the next generation when their world is digital, fast-changing, and often confusing for adults?In this episode, Michael Easley sits down with sociologist Dr. Josh Packard to unpack the surprising truth: you don’t need to master every platform or trend to meaningfully influence teens. You need presence, curiosity, and listening.Together they explore why today’s teens feel digitally confident yet relationally insecure, how this tension shapes their everyday lives, and what caring adults can do to build trust in a world full of noise. If you’re a parent, pastor, mentor, or leader investing in Gen Z or Gen Alpha, this conversation will reshape the way you think about discipleship and connection.What You’ll Learn- Why adults don’t need to “keep up” with technology to guide teens- How the digital confidence vs. relational insecurity gap impacts students- Why listening is often more powerful than teaching- The shift from “truth → trust → time” to “time → trust → truth”- Practical ways to engage the next generation with presence and consistencyChapters00:00 Introduction and Context of the Conversation07:31 Understanding Generational Differences13:16 The Role of Trust in Ministry18:53 Sacred Listening and Relational Ministry23:32 Growing Up Online: The Impact of Social Media27:34 Navigating Teen Social Media Spaces31:18 Understanding the Digital Generation35:02 Curiosity Over Expertise in Youth Engagement38:48 Building Trust Through Presence43:00 Cognitive Dissonance in the Digital Age47:57 The Challenge of Information Overload52:15 The Power of Listening and Curiosity Links Mentioned Faithful Futures by Dr. Josh Packard Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Should Christians make New Year's resolutions? In this special (re-release) episode of inContext, Michael discusses New Year's resolutions for Christians. Links Mentioned: ⁠Download Michael's Personal Development goals template⁠ To read the show notes, ⁠click here⁠.

Summary: In this special Christmas episode, Michael sits down with the legendary Michael W. Smith for a rich, joyful, and deeply reflective conversation about worship, songwriting, and the heart behind Christmas music. Originally recorded in 2020, their dialogue remains just as relevant and refreshing today. Smith shares how his understanding of worship has matured from music-driven moments to an entire lifestyle shaped by loving God and loving others. The two discuss the origins of some of Smith’s most beloved Christmas songs—like “All Is Well” and “The Promise”—including powerful stories behind their melodies and lyrics. Smith describes the surprising ease of some compositions (“it just fell out of the sky”) and the disciplined humility required to step back when a song isn’t ready. He also recounts influences ranging from Bach and Handel to Andy Williams and classic orchestral Christmas recordings he devoured as a child. Smith opens up about the grind and the beauty of his December touring schedule, the spiritual responsibility of leading worship, and the weight of pride that often shadows artists early in their careers. With honesty and warmth, this episode explores worship as a lifestyle, the craft of songwriting, and the glory of Christ at Christmas. Takeaways: Worship is not music alone but a lifestyle of loving God and others. Growth in worship leadership means decreasing pride, disappearing on stage, and guiding people to meet with God. Smith emphasizes that worship requires purity of heart, not just musical excellence. Links Mentioned Prayer by Tim Keller Intimacy with the Almighty by Charles Swindoll For more inContext interviews, click here.

In this special Christmas episode of inContext, Michael Easley invites you into a thoughtful and engaging Christmas Quiz designed to test what we think we know about the Nativity story. Many of our assumptions come from tradition, art, and cultural imagery — but how much of it actually comes from Scripture? As Michael walks through each question, he highlights key biblical details, corrects common misconceptions, and helps us remember the stunning simplicity of the birth of Christ. This episode isn’t just trivia. It’s a reminder to slow down during a busy season, open the Bible, and return to the true story of the incarnation. Whether you’re listening alone, discussing with your family, or using this quiz in a small group, you’ll gain a clearer view of what the gospel writers recorded — and a renewed sense of wonder at God’s plan in sending His Son. Stay through the final score for a few reflections that will help you read the Christmas story with fresh eyes this year. Resources Mentioned: Download the free Christmas IQ quiz Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:02 – Why We Mix Up the Christmas Story 01:30 – Kids, Storybooks, and Misleading Illustrations 02:20 – Was the Forbidden Fruit an Apple? 03:00 – Christmas Quiz Question #1 03:31 – Christmas Quiz Question #2 03:55 – Christmas Quiz Question #3 04:40 – Christmas Quiz Question #4 05:28 – Christmas Quiz Question #5 06:17 – Christmas Quiz Question #6 07:37 – Christmas Quiz Question #7 08:16 – Christmas Quiz Question #8 08:48 – Christmas Quiz Question #9 09:48 – Christmas Quiz Question #10 10:51 – Christmas Quiz Question #11 11:33 – Christmas Quiz Question #12 13:22 – Christmas Quiz Question #13 13:40 – Christmas Quiz Question #14 15:09 – Christmas Quiz Question #15 16:32 – Christmas Quiz Question #16 17:43 – Glitter, Nativities, and the Herpes of Crafts 18:31 – Where the Christmas Story Appears in Scripture 19:20 – Joseph, Mary, and the Surprise Pregnancy 20:07 – Who Sent Them to Bethlehem? 21:08 – Did the Angels Sing? (The Debate Continues) 22:08 – A Christmas Book Recommendation 23:58 – What Are You Doing for Christmas? 24:40 – Teaching Kids Contentment at Christmas Follow on Instagram and Facebook For more information on Dr. Michael Easley and Ask Dr. E click here.

Grandparenting isn’t just a season of life — it’s a calling. In this powerful episode, Dr. Michael Easley sits down with Dr. Larry Fowler from the Legacy Coalition to explore how Scripture calls grandparents to disciple their grandchildren and leave a legacy of faith.Learn how to build spiritual connections with your grandkids, even when distance, age, or family tension makes it difficult. Discover how to balance truth and grace, respect your adult children’s boundaries, and model godly living that draws future generations toward Christ. Topics Covered:00:00 – Why Grandparents Matter Spiritually06:45 – The Biblical Command for Grandparenting (Deut. 4:9)12:00 – How Churches Can Equip Grandparents15:30 – Overbearing vs. Distant Grandparents19:00 – When Adult Children Aren’t Believers23:00 – Prayer and Influence When Words Aren’t Welcome27:30 – Building Lasting Faith Legacies Links Mentioned The Legacy Coalition Legacy Grandparenting Summit 2026 Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

What does it mean to be a godly man today? In this episode of Michael Easley inContext, Dr. Michael Easley sits down with Dr. Robert Brent, author of Recapturing Godly Masculinity, to discuss the crisis of manhood in our culture and how Scripture calls men to a better standard. Together, they explore: -Why culture confuses dominance with leadership -How humility and responsibility shape godly strength -The role of mentorship, purity, and accountability -What Christlike leadership looks like at home and in the church Join the conversation: What’s one way you’ve seen biblical manhood modeled well? Comment below — we’d love to hear your thoughts. Resources Mentioned: Recapturing Godly Masculinity by Dr. Robert Brent Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:12 – Why Masculinity Is in Crisis 05:43 – What Is Godly Manhood? 12:20 – Strength Under Control: The Example of Christ 18:56 – The Role of Mentorship and Accountability 25:15 – Raising Sons to Be Men of God 32:48 – Purity, Boundaries, and Integrity 38:20 – Final Encouragements from Dr. Brent Follow on Instagram and Facebook Click here for more information on Dr. Michael Easley and Ask Dr. E

Summary: In this episode, Dr. Easley sits down with Sean Dunn, founder of GroundWire, an innovative ministry reaching young people where they already are—online. With decades of experience in youth ministry, Sean shares how God shifted his focus from platform ministry to personal evangelism that points people to Jesus, not a personality. His mission stems from a prayer he first wrote in his Bible at 14: “Contend for a generation.”  Together, Michael and Sean discuss how today’s younger generations—particularly Gen Z—are both deeply anxious and spiritually open, though often disconnected from traditional church structures. Sean unpacks practical ways to engage them with empathy and authenticity, using the simple yet powerful acronym LETS: Listen, Empathize, Transition, Share. He also challenges believers to rethink evangelism through Jesus’ words in Matthew 9: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” The conversation calls every listener to see the current culture not as hopeless, but as ripe for harvest—and to pray earnestly for God to send workers into the field. Takeaways: Sean Dunn founded GroundWire to reach young people for Christ through digital evangelism. Today’s youth are spiritually open but disconnected from traditional church methods. The “apathiest” generation believes in God but ignores Him. Authentic care and kindness open doors for gospel conversations. Jesus’ command in Matthew 9 calls believers to pray for and become workers in the harvest. Effective evangelism begins with listening and empathy, not arguments or authority. Links Mentioned Contending For The Rising Generation by Sean Dunn Groundwire Ministries Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary In this episode, Dr. Easley reconnects with longtime friend and fellow Dallas Theological Seminary alumnus Greg Hatteberg to reflect on a lifetime of faithfulness—through ministry, marriage, and the mentorship of godly leaders. Hattenberg shares how his grandfather’s quiet devotion to Scripture laid the foundation for his own walk with Christ, eventually leading him to Moody and then to Dallas Seminary. There, he and Michael sat under professors like Howard Hendricks and J. Dwight Pentecost, whose lives modeled the truth they taught.  Their conversation weaves together memories of those formative years with reflections on enduring faith amid hardship—especially Greg’s story of loving and caring for his late wife Lisa through her decades-long battle with multiple sclerosis. Her faith and joy in suffering continue to shape his ministry and outlook today. Together, they explore how theological education has expanded from classroom walls to a global platform, yet the heartbeat remains unchanged: to know Christ and serve Him faithfully. Hatteberg’s message to leaders and believers alike is simple: don’t quit; stay the course; finish well. Takeaways Faith’s roots often begin in quiet family devotion and Scripture study. Lifelong ministry is sustained by endurance and faithfulness, not ease. True theological education shapes both heart and mind for a lifetime. Greg’s marriage to Lisa reflected Christlike perseverance through suffering. The methods of teaching evolve, but God’s Word remains unchanged. Every believer is called to finish their ministry with endurance and hope. This episode is for anyone who longs for a faith that lasts. Whether you’re a pastor, seminary student, or believer walking through hardship, endurance, integrity, and love for God’s Word are what sustain a lifetime of ministry. Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley welcomes best-selling author and leadership coach Patrick Lencioni for a candid conversation about the intersection of faith, humility, and leadership. Patrick shares how spiritual maturity and self-awareness shape the way leaders serve others, especially in ministry and organizational life. He and Michael discuss how pride and insecurity often hide behind titles or success—and how true leadership begins with embracing our dependence on Christ. Patrick reflects on his personal journey of learning to lead through weakness, not image, and explains why the healthiest teams are built on honesty and vulnerability, not performance. Together, they unpack the dangers of ego-driven ministry and the freedom that comes when leaders prioritize humility, obedience, and joy in the Lord over outcomes. This conversation challenges every listener—pastor, leader, or parent—to evaluate what drives their influence. Through laughter, honesty, and deep biblical truth, Patrick and Michael remind us that leadership in the kingdom of God is not about control or recognition—it’s about service and surrender. Takeaways True leadership begins with humility, not authority. Pride and insecurity often disguise themselves as confidence. The healthiest teams are marked by honesty and vulnerability. Spiritual maturity means serving from dependence on Christ, not self. Leaders must resist the temptation to measure worth by results. God calls us to lead through obedience and joy, not image or control. LINKS MENTIONED: The Table Group Pat’s books Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley sits down with Dr. Keith Bodner—Old Testament scholar, author, and professor—to explore the beauty, depth, and divine design of Scripture. Together, they examine how literary artistry and theological truth intertwine throughout the Old Testament, showing that these ancient texts are far more than historical accounts—they’re masterfully constructed narratives revealing God’s character and redemptive plan. Dr. Bodner unpacks the importance of reading Scripture as both literature and revelation, pointing out how patterns, irony, and structure illuminate meaning. He and Dr. Easley discuss what it means to approach the Bible with reverence, curiosity, and literary attentiveness, and why doing so deepens our understanding of God’s Word. Whether you’ve studied the Bible for years or are just beginning to appreciate its complexity, this conversation will renew your awe for the divine craftsmanship behind Scripture—and encourage you to see the Old Testament not as a collection of disconnected stories, but as a coherent narrative revealing the wisdom and sovereignty of God. Takeaways The Old Testament isn’t just a collection of ancient stories—it’s a divine masterpiece, crafted to reveal God’s character and His redemptive plan. Every narrative, from Genesis to the prophets, carries intentional design and theological weight, pointing us back to the faithfulness of God. When we recognize the literary patterns, irony, and structure within Scripture, we begin to see the brilliance of God’s authorship behind every word. Studying the Bible with both literary attentiveness and spiritual humility allows us to appreciate its artistry without losing sight of its authority. The coherence and consistency of the Old Testament remind us that Scripture is not man’s invention but God’s revelation—woven together by His sovereign hand. Reading Scripture this way renews our awe for God’s Word and deepens our confidence that every story serves His eternal purpose. LINKS MENTIONED: Exploring The Financial Parables of Jesus by Dr. Keith Bodner Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary: In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley and former NFL quarterback Jeff Kemp talk about what it means for men to follow Jesus with humility, dependence, and intentionality. Kemp draws from John’s Gospel, where Jesus repeatedly affirms that He only does what His Father tells Him to do. Michael reflects on how staggering it is that the God-man chose to say and do only what pleased His Father. Jeff unpacks this further: if Christ Himself modeled such dependence, then we too must stop striving to impress God and instead learn to receive from Him. The conversation then turns to one of the greatest needs among men today—true friendship. Many men isolate, even while surrounded by people, leaving them lonely, insecure, and vulnerable. Kemp encourages men to take simple but intentional steps: initiate, honor others, pray together, and practice accountability. He shares practical questions for building deeper friendships, emphasizes the power of confession, and reminds us that level-five friendships are rooted in Christ and His Word. At the heart of this conversation is a simple challenge: don’t try to live the Christian life alone. Depend on Christ. Invest in other men. Take the initiative to build friendships that are honest, prayerful, and life-giving. Takeaways Jesus modeled total dependence on the Father, and we are called to do the same. Men often isolate, leaving them vulnerable to loneliness and insecurity. True friendships require initiative—reaching out, honoring, and encouraging others. Confession and prayer with trusted friends bring healing and strength. Practical questions and accountability take friendships beyond the surface. Deep, Christ-centered friendships are essential for spiritual growth and resilience. LINKS MENTIONED: Receive by Jeff Kemp Men Huddle Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary: In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley welcomes back Dr. S. Jonathan Murphy, senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church and author of The Story of God and Us. Dr. Murphy shares how his book was written to give believers a clear framework for understanding the Bible from beginning to end, while also highlighting the relevance of each book for everyday life. He and Dr. Easley discuss how faith produces obedience—not through guilt or “shoulds” but through the Spirit’s work within us.  Dr. Murphy explains how God births new desires in His people as they spend time in His Word and with Him, shifting appetites from empty pursuits to joyful obedience. Together, they explore God’s providence in everyday details, the warnings and encouragements of Malachi, and how God prepared His people for Christ even during the 400 years of silence. Dr. Murphy emphasizes that Scripture, even the often-overlooked minor prophets, speaks with direct relevance to our lives today. He closes by pointing to the believer’s eternal hope and the joy of what is to come. This episode invites listeners to delight in God’s Word, trust His providence, and live out their faith with Spirit-driven joy and anticipation. Takeaways Obedience flows from Spirit-led faith, not guilt or self-effort. God births new desires in us as we spend time with Him. Daily providence shows God’s hand in ordinary life. The prophets remain deeply relevant for modern believers. Even in silence, God was preparing His people for Christ. Our hope grows as we glimpse the joy of eternity with Him. Links Mentioned The Story of God and Us by Dr. S. Jonathan Murphy Authentic Influencer by Dr. S Jonathan Murphy  Dr. Murphy's website Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary: In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley and Ken Ham have a candid conversation about faith, leadership, and navigating criticism. Together, they wrestle with the tension between personal responsibility, pure motives, and God’s sovereignty—asking whether decisions truly glorify God or sometimes serve our own ambitions. Looking at biblical examples like Nehemiah, they explore the difference between bold faith and foolish presumption, and how leaders can step forward with courage while staying grounded in humility. Ken Ham shares personal stories of how God shaped his calling, from his early burdens to the building of the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter. He reflects on how criticism—especially from within the church—has tested but refined him, and how he’s learned to measure faithfulness not by approval but by obedience to God’s Word. Dr. Easley and Ham also highlight the importance of wise mentors, compassionate leadership, and learning to speak truth with both authority and grace. This conversation is a reminder that while opposition is inevitable, God uses it to strengthen our faith. Whether in ministry, family, or personal decisions, we’re called to stand firm on God’s Word, lead with humility, and trust that He will use us for His glory. Takeaways Leadership requires balancing humility with tenacity. Nehemiah models boldness rooted in God’s glory, not self-promotion. True faith often looks like risk against conventional wisdom. Criticism—even from within the church—can refine character. Wise mentors help leaders grow in Christlikeness. God calls us to bold obedience, tempered with compassion. Links Mentioned Answers in Genesis The Creation Museum Miraculous by Ken Ham Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary: In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley welcomes Dr. E. Calvin Beisner, founder of the Cornwall Alliance, for a conversation on creation care, energy, and biblical stewardship. Together, they challenge the myths of “green energy,” pointing out the hidden costs and environmental damage often overlooked with wind and solar power. Dr. Beisner explains how chemicals and medications enter the water supply and highlights the inconsistency of environmental movements that ignore certain pollutants while amplifying others. He critiques the flawed “linear no threshold” principle in toxicology, showing how it fails both scientifically and logically. The discussion also focuses on practical stewardship—recycling, waste management, and the need for engineering innovation. Dr. Beisner urges young Christians to pursue STEM fields as a way to serve God and address real-world challenges. From energy grid reliability to the promise of small nuclear plants, and even the looming threat of EMP attacks, the conversation underscores the need for wise, forward-thinking solutions. Ultimately, Dr. Easley and Dr. Beisner remind listeners that stewardship is not driven by fear or ideology. Instead, it flows from Scripture: caring for creation with wisdom, truth, and hope in Christ. Takeaways Stewardship requires wisdom rooted in Scripture, not fear-driven environmental ideology. “Green energy” promises often mask hidden costs that harm both creation and human flourishing. Christians must think critically about environmental claims instead of adopting cultural talking points. Innovation and engineering offer God-honoring solutions to waste, energy, and sustainability challenges. Dependence on unreliable energy sources leaves society vulnerable to crises with serious national security risks. True hope for creation care is found not in policy or technology, but in Christ and faithful stewardship. LINKS MENTIONED: The Cornwall Alliance  Climate and Energy: The Case For Realism by Dr. E. Calvin Beisner and David Legates

Summary  In this special episode of InContext, Dr. Michael Easley sits down with the late Dr. Voddie Baucham, Jr.—pastor, professor, and cultural apologist—for a wide-ranging conversation about faith, family, and living with conviction in a confused culture. Voddie shares his remarkable journey to Christ, from growing up without the gospel to encountering Christ in college and pursuing a call to ministry. At the time of this conversation, he was serving as Dean of the School of Divinity at African Christian University in Lusaka, Zambia. With candor and humor, he reflects on raising nine children, the discipline of homeschooling, and the patience and selflessness required in marriage. He also describes how God’s providence led his family to Zambia, teaching them to live with “open hands.” The discussion moves into cultural apologetics, where Voddie explains his bold approach to addressing issues like BLM, social justice, marriage, and sexuality—not by chasing headlines but by exposing false foundations and pointing people back to God’s design. Though he has since gone home to be with the Lord, this conversation remains a testimony to Voddie’s unwavering courage, pastoral heart, and legacy of faithfulness that continues to inspire. Key Takeaways Voddie’s journey to Christ began in college, shaping his lifelong ministry calling. Raising nine children taught him discipline, faith, and the need for patience. God called the Bauchams to Zambia through providential open-handed obedience. Cultural apologetics requires exposing false foundations, not chasing headlines. Modern education and parenting philosophies leave generations unable to think critically. Believers are called to steward “what’s in their hand” for God’s purposes. Links Mentioned: Voddie’s WebsiteWatch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary: In this episode, Michael Easley and Mike Glenn reflect on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the impact of his life on young adults, especially men. They explore how Kirk’s message of self-responsibility, personal growth, and engagement with challenging ideas inspired a generation. From his commitment to education and reading to his approachable, thoughtful style, Kirk connected with young men seeking guidance and mentorship in a complex cultural moment. Easley and Glenn also examine the broader cultural and Christian implications of his death, highlighting the dangers of conflating nationalism with faith and the need to focus on Christ as King.  They discuss the tension between celebrating Kirk’s achievements and avoiding idolizing him, encouraging listeners to take the best from his example—study, grow, love others, and stand for truth. The conversation emphasizes discernment, courage, and grace, urging Christians to engage thoughtfully with culture while avoiding personal attacks or violence. Ultimately, the episode is a reflection on leadership, faith, and the responsibility of Christians to pursue truth, love, and discernment in both their private lives and public influence. Takeaways Charlie Kirk inspired young adults through mentorship, humor, and a commitment to truth. His assassination challenges people to carry forward his principles without resorting to violence. Christians must separate cultural or political agendas from the supremacy of Christ. True influence comes from consistent integrity, thoughtfulness, and engagement with difficult ideas. Discernment is crucial when celebrating leaders while avoiding idolization. Pursuing personal growth, education, and love for others reflects the best of Kirk’s example. Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley is joined by theologian Dr. Fred Sanders to explore the essential connection between the Trinity and the Christian life. Dr. Sanders explains how the work of salvation is one unified act of God—accomplished by the Son and applied by the Spirit. Together, they discuss how terms like “indwelling,” “filling,” and “illumination” describe the Spirit’s role in bringing believers into the fullness of Christ’s work. Dr. Sanders highlights that while different traditions use various words to capture the Spirit’s activity, the unifying theme is that the Spirit applies what belongs to Christ directly to believers. He emphasizes that this understanding keeps Christians from fragmenting salvation into pieces and instead shows how the Father, Son, and Spirit work inseparably for our redemption. The conversation also touches on practical challenges: why faithful Christians sometimes reach different conclusions in studying Scripture, how conscience and conviction intersect, and how works fit into salvation. Ultimately, Dr. Sanders reminds us that the Trinity is not “doctrine number 21” tacked onto our faith, but the very center that holds all Christian belief and experience together. Takeaways Salvation is accomplished by the Son and applied by the Spirit. Terms like indwelling, filling, and illumination describe aspects of the Spirit’s work. The Spirit takes what belongs to Christ and gives it to believers. Conscience is an unreliable master but a useful servant under the Spirit’s guidance. Good works flow naturally from salvation but never earn it. The Trinity is not an add-on doctrine but the framework that unites all Christian belief. Links Mentioned The Deep Things of God: How The Trinity Changes Everything by Dr. Fred Sanders Dr. Sanders’ website Union With Christ and The Life of Faith by Dr. Fred Sanders

In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley welcomes Holly Pivec and R. Douglas Geivett to discuss the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) and their book Counterfeit Kingdom. The conversation unpacks how NAR leaders redefine apostleship, distort biblical terminology, and promote teachings that undermine the gospel. Holly and Doug explain how NAR apostles claim authority and revelation outside of Scripture, creating fear of demonic attack for those who refuse to submit. They highlight how this movement distorts the gospel by shifting the focus from Christ’s finished work on the cross to dominion theology, signs, and wonders. The guests also address the dangers of Bethel music as a vehicle for spreading NAR doctrine, the redefinition of prayer into declarations and decrees, and the damage caused by false prophecies and failed miracles. They describe how NAR teaching fuels church splits, damages marriages, and divides families, all while advancing a Seven Mountain Mandate that seeks control over major areas of society. Dr. Easley, Holly, and Doug caution listeners to recognize these counterfeit teachings and cling to the authority of Scripture. This episode calls believers to remain vigilant, discerning, and grounded in the truth of the gospel. Takeaways: NAR leaders redefine apostleship and claim authority not found in Scripture. Fear of demonic attack is used to keep followers under apostolic “covering.” The movement distorts the gospel, emphasizing dominion and miracles over Christ’s cross. Bethel music spreads NAR doctrine globally under the guise of worship. NAR’s Seven Mountain Mandate seeks cultural and political dominance. LINKS MENTIONED: Counterfeit Kingdom by R. Douglas Geivett and Holly Pivec Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

In this episode, Marcia Montenegro shares her journey from the New Age and occult practices to a life transformed by Christ. Marcia describes her years immersed in astrology, New Age teachings, and even teaching these practices, and how she witnessed the growing influence of New Age ideas in mainstream culture—from mindfulness and Reiki in hospitals to elements creeping into therapy and mental health modalities. She highlights the subtle ways these practices appear helpful or harmless, while often being spiritually dangerous. Marcia also reflects on cultural phenomena like the Twilight series, explaining how dark themes are glamorized and attract young people through curiosity, rebellion, or the allure of secret knowledge and community. Her own conversion story is compelling: despite being skeptical of a personal God, Marcia felt a profound encounter with God’s love during a church service. This led her to give up astrology, explore the Bible, and ultimately recognize Jesus Christ as her Savior. She emphasizes God’s grace, the power of prayer (including others praying for her before she even knew), and the life-changing simplicity of faith in Jesus. Takeaways: New Age practices like astrology, Reiki, and mindfulness have infiltrated mainstream culture, often appearing harmless. Dark themes in popular media, such as Twilight, attract young people through rebellion, curiosity, and the lure of secret knowledge. New Age and occult communities often draw people by offering belonging and empowerment. Some therapeutic practices, even Christian inner healing, can unknowingly incorporate New Age techniques like visualization. LINKS MENTIONED: Marcia’s Website Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary: In this episode, Michael sits down with author and pastor Chip Ingram to explore what it means to choose joy—especially when life feels heavy. Chip shares how biblical joy is more than an emotion; it’s a deliberate choice rooted in Christ, not our circumstances. Drawing from Philippians, he describes Paul’s example of rejoicing in chains and challenges listeners to shift their perspective from personal comfort to God’s purposes. Chip also recounts his own battle with discouragement during COVID—how exercise, worship, and helping others lifted him from a dark place and unexpectedly sparked a global pastoral training initiative that reached hundreds of thousands. Together, Michael and Chip address the struggle many face in finding purpose later in life, especially after retirement. They outline practical ways to identify God-given passions and live on mission, no matter the season. Finally, Chip offers a compelling picture of biblical hope—not wishful thinking, but confident expectation in Christ’s return and Eden restored. This eternal perspective reframes suffering and anchors our joy in what’s ahead rather than what we see now. Takeaways: Biblical joy comes from Christ and must be intentionally chosen, not based on circumstances or emotions. Paul’s example in prison shows that joy grows when we focus on God’s purposes instead of our own comfort. Discouragement can be fought through practical steps like exercise, worship, and serving others. Our God-given purpose continues into every season of life, even after retirement. Honest community and accountability help clarify calling and sustain long-term joy. Links Mentioned: I Choose Joy by Chip Ingram Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.