Michael Easley inContext

Proverbs 11:14 tells us there is victory in an abundance of counselors, so I called a few of my wiser friends and asked if they'd share their counsel with us as we navigate a rather contentious presidential election. First up, Dr. Wayne Grudem offers his wise insights. For Show Notes and to learn more about Dr. Grudem visit: https://michaelincontext.com/we-vote-god-establishes/

In this Benchmarks series, I want to look at passages that have provided me with a framework that has helped me navigate life, suffering, ministry, and purpose. This week we look at what I might consider my life's verse: Colossians 1:28-29. For Show Notes visit: https://michaelincontext.com/pauls-great-commission/

This is the first episode of a series called Benchmarks. By definition, a benchmark is standard point of reference to which other things are measured. This series features benchmarks in my life looking back over 50 years of following Christ. We begin by looking at Psalm 101. For show notes visit: https://michaelincontext.com/maturing-in-christ/

In this episode, Pastor Mike Glenn offers wisdom and encouragement to us in his answers to our 10 Questions. In our conversation, Mike and I discuss: Longstanding steadfastness in ministry Believing God loves and likes us Mike's book Coffee with Mom https://michaelincontext.com/10-questions-mike-glenn/

In this episode I host my favorite guest, my bride, Cindy Easley. In Cindy's answers to our 10 Questions are valuable reminders and instructions straight from God's Word. "My goal is to be more like Christ every day, to live a life of grace, and to demonstrate the love of Christ––which is not the love of the world." For notes and resources visit: https://michaelincontext.com/10-questions-cindy-easley

We welcome Ron Rhodes to inContext today to answer our 10 Questions. In this conversation, Michael and Ron talk about: Having an eternity-focused perspective Apologetics, the defense of our faith The importance of daily time in the Bible For notes and resources, visit: https://michaelincontext.com/10-questions-ron-rhodes

Today we hear answers to our 10 Questions from Robert J Morgan. "Happiness is an emotion, but joy is an attitude. Our attitudes we can choose, and our emotions come out of our attitudes." For notes and resources visit:https://michaelincontext.com/10-questions-robert-j-morgan/

Today we hear answers to our 10 Questions from Dr. John Ankerberg. "Learn to trust God. Because everything works with Him, and nothing works without Him." For notes and resources visit: https://michaelincontext.com/10-questions-john-ankerberg/

Today we hear answers to Michael's 10 Questions from his longtime friend, Rob Schwarzwalder. In this conversation, Rob shares about his struggles with doubt and anxiety, and how he escaped from under the weight of that struggle and embraced a life of surrender to Christ as his Lord. "It was as though years of anxiety, questioning, unbelief, and doubt fell off my back." For notes and resources visit https://michaelincontext.com/10-questions-schwarzwalder/

Today's guest is Ralph Weitz, a longtime friend of Michael's, veteran in ministry, and expert in faithful financial stewardship. "I need to rest from the notion of earning my salvation, but work at the issue of my sanctification––my spiritual growth in Him." For Notes and Resources: https://michaelincontext.com/10-questions-ralph-weitz/

Michael speaks with Dr. Philip Cary about his book: Good News for Anxious Christians: 10 Practical Things you Don't Have to Do. "We don't have faith in faith, we have faith in the Gospel." How does our experience of God inform our faith? How does one know, truly know, that they're saved? How do we let God take control of our lives? For Show Notes and Resources visit: https://michaelincontext.com/good-news-cary/

This third and last episode from Dr. Carl Trueman was originally taught at the 2017 Blue Ridge Bible Conference. It is not simply believing the Bible is authoritative that makes you a Christian. It is what you believe the Bible teaches that constitutes you as a Christian. For Notes and Resources visit: https://michaelincontext.com/carl-trueman-authority-of-scripture/

In our last episode we heard Dr. Trueman address the psychological nature of the way in which we typically think of ourselves and our identity. In this episode he adds another strand to that: the context in which we think of ourselves as human beings having an identity. https://michaelincontext.com/carl-trueman-2019-2/

We're thrilled to welcome Dr. Carl Trueman back to inContext. Today we're sharing part one of a lecture series originally given at the 2019 Blue Ridge Bible Conference: Gender, Sexuality, and What it Means to be Human. Listen to how the Bible shapes our understanding of human identity, gender, and sexual ethics, and consider how the Church can offer the Gospel to those who are struggling. For Show Notes visit: https://michaelincontext.com/carl-trueman-2019-1/

In this episode Michael talks with two of his and Cindy's closest friends, Robert and Liz White. The Whites live with great intentionality that makes itself evident in their marriage, their family and their ministry. In this conversation, Michael and the Whites discuss: Friendship Local Ministry Marriage Community Discipleship Parenting For notes and resources visit https://michaelincontext.com/living-intentionally-the-whites/

This episode first released on Hanna Seymour's podcast No Matter What. The premise is simple. Will you be the man or woman that God created you to be, no matter what? Hanna, having heard this admonishment from Michael throughout her life, invited him on to explain this concept as the first episode of her podcast: No Matter What. For resources visit http://michaelincontext.com/no-matter-what

Dr. Mark David Hall, author of Did America have a Christian Founding? Separating Modern Myth from Historical Truth joins Michael to discuss the history of our nation, our faith, and how the intersection of the two guide our future. Our thanks to Dr. Hall for sharing his time and wisdom! For notes and resources visit: https://michaelincontext.com/christian-founding-mark-david-hall/

Michael teaches a few observations from the Old Testament and reminds us where The Big Book––Cover to Cover series came from. As we wrap up the Old Testament it's important that we revisit why we began this series in the first place: Why is it important to understand the big picture of Scripture as a whole? https://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-old-testament

Michael teaches an overview of the book of Malachi. The last of the prophets serves as a perfect photo-finish to the Old Testament. Covenant people, will you live faithfully no matter what your experience tells you? For Show Notes visit: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-malachi

Michael teaches an overview on the book of Zechariah. We rarely have answers to our "why" or "how long" questions, but we have clear instructions from the Lord: Trust Him. Join us for another remarkably timely reminder from an ancient prophet, whose words to his original audience point them–and us–to timeless truth about the God we serve. For Show Notes: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-zechariah

Dr. Wayne Grudem joins Michael to talk through difficult questions we may have or face in our Christian lives pertaining to knowing God's will, end of life decisions, and the leadership and future of the church. For Show Notes including timestamps for each question asked, or to learn more about Dr. Grudem visit: http://michaelincontext.com/dr-e-asks-dr-g-1

Michael teaches an overview on the book of Haggai. Haggai is the second-shortest book in the Bible, but don't discredit it. There's a lot here in 38 short verses. For Show Notes visit: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-haggai

What does the Bible say about spanking your children? Is polyamory the next pastoral sexual frontier, and if so, how should we respond? (Also, what is polyamory?) Did God really turn His face away from Christ on the cross What are Dr. E's top book recommendations? You asked, Dr. E Answered! For Show Notes containing timestamps for each question and resources listed, visit: https://michaelincontext.com/ask-dr-e-episode-10/

Michael teaches an overview of the book of Zephaniah. An interesting book at many levels, Zephaniah prophesied during the time of the young King Josiah as he tried to lead his people to turn back to God. This is a book of warning and encouragement, and one with practical application fitting for our time. Show Notes: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-zephaniah

Dr. Jack Collins joins Michael to talk about this book: what understanding should we bring to our study of Habakkuk, and what should we take away? This is a unique book. Where most prophetic books address a people group, Habakkuk is an account of dialogue between a prophet and God. For Show Notes visit http://michaelincontext.com/bonus-episode-Habakkuk

People have always had the same responses to crisis: How long? How can this go on? Why do the righteous suffer? Why do the wicked prosper? God, why aren't You doing something? Unlike most prophets who spoke to Judah, Israel, Assyria, the Babylonians–some people group–this is a conversation between a prophet and God. Join us as we study this unique prophetic text. Show Notes: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-habakkuk

Dr. Ken Boa is back on inContext to help us understand Nahum and to offer guidance in studying the books of the minor prophets. Dr. Boa is engaged in a ministry of relational evangelism and discipleship, teaching, writing, and speaking. To learn more about Dr. Boa and his ministry, books, and resources mentioned in the episode visit: http://michaelincontext.com/bonus-episode-nahum

Michael teaches an overview of the book of Nahum. Nahum delivered a potent decree of God's judgment in three short chapters. His message is clear: God is indeed a God of wrath. Is it possible, however, that God's wrath demonstrates His love? For Show Notes visit: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-Nahm

Michael speaks with Dr. Mark Chavalas about the book of Micah. What does God require of His people? Micah offers a stark warning of God's impending judgment, and future hope for the remnant God will preserve according to His promises. For Show Notes visit http://michaelincontext.com/bonus-episode-micah

Michael teaches an overview of the book of Micah. One of the features of the book of Micah that sets this prophet apart is his audience. Isaiah prophesied to kings and princes, but Micah prophesied in the country - a more rural prophet. But his message aligns with the over-arching message of most of the prophets: a reminder of God's Word, His coming judgment, and His gracious goodness. For Show Notes and resources visit: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-micah

Dr. David T. Lamb returns to inContext to talk about a book many of us have been familiar with since childhood. In Dr. Lamb's word: It's easy to make fun of Jonah, but I'd encourage us to be able to somehow see ourselves in Jonah and the ways that we resist God's lead. How am I like Jonah? How can I be open to God's leading? How can I love my enemies? Our thanks to Dr. Lamb for his time and expertise! For shown notes: http://michaelincontext.com/bonus-episode-jonah

Michael teaches an overview of the book of Jonah. Well known and widely regarded as a children's story or a "whale's tale," this is a text many of us ought to look at with fresh eyes. It's the living word of God. https://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-jonah/ Have a biblical or theological question? Ask Dr. E! Call 615-281-9694 and leave a voicemail with your question or email [email protected]. Michael will answer on an upcoming episode!

Dr. Mark Chavalas joins us at inContext again, this time to discuss the Minor Prophet Obadiah. As always, the historical context Dr. Chavalas brings helps us to wrap our minds around the bigger picture. In this case, he reminds us that we can expect God to be the same today that He was when this book was written: He is faithful and He is just. For Show Notes visit: https://michaelincontext.com/bonus-episode-obadiah/

Michael teaches an overview of the book of Obadiah. Hard to believe we're 31 books into our series The Big Book–Cover to Cover. This week we look at the book of Obadiah. We don't know a lot about the prophet Obadiah or the exact timeframe in which this was written, but we know a lot about his message. It's very clear. For Show Notes visit: https://michaelincontext.com/?p=156164&preview=true

Michael speaks with Carl Trueman about what the Bible tells us about identity, sexuality, and the role of the church in our current cultural moment. Dr. Trueman is an esteemed church historian and previously served as the William E. Simon Fellow in Religion and Public Life at Princeton University. Trueman has authored or edited more than a dozen books. For Show Notes visit: https://michaelincontext.com/special-edition-carl-trueman/

Michael teaches an overview of the book of Amos, perhaps the oldest book of the Minor Prophets. The prophet Amos strives to remind God's people who He is, what He has promised, and to contend that He will indeed do as He said. He is unchanging and His Word is sure. For Show Notes visit: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-amos

Michael speaks with Dr. David W. Baker about studying the books of the Minor Prophets. Dr. Baker is the author of a long list of works and is recognized as an international Old Testament scholar. One of his most fulfilling academic achievements is as an editor, helping others achieve publishing success. For Show Notes and Resources visit: https://michaelincontext.com/?p=156054&preview=true

Michael teaches an overview of the book of Joel. Joel is a very brief book and we know very little about Joel the prophet, or the timeframe in which this book was written. Yet the book of Joel is so comprehensive in its references to other Old Testament writings, as well as how the New Testament employs the book, that it garners a lot of attention. For Show Notes, visit: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-joel

Michael speaks with Dr. Eric Tully about the book of Hosea. Dr. Eric Tully is an assistant professor of Old Testament and Semitic languages at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. He’s passionate about preaching the Old Testament and helping those in the church interpret and proclaim it with competence and confidence. Our thanks to Dr. Tully for joining us for this encouraging and insightful conversation! For Show Notes visit http://michaelincontext.com/bonus-episode-hosea

Michael teaches an overview on the book of Hosea. In this short book, God warns and convicts His people of their idolatry through the story of a man instructed to retrieve his unfaithful wife again and again. Though judgment and destruction are sure, salvation will come. Join us as we examine God's faithfulness to His faithless people in order to bring them to restoration. For Show Notes visit: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-hosea

Michael interviews Dr. Wendy Widder about the book of Daniel. Dr. Widder has studied and taught the book of Daniel extensively for more than a decade, and joins us in this episode to do the same. Dr. Widder's insights are fascinating, challenging, and encouraging. For Show Notes visit http://michaelincontext.com/bonus-episode-daniel

Sometimes referred to as the Revelation of the Old Testament, the book of Daniel remains an intriguing and controversial book. It is a favorite book for the young and those who have interest in prophecy. Daniel’s pious life among a pagan culture drew attention from his enemies and favor from his God. The book records accounts of visions rich with imagery and most significantly, references to the future King and Messiah. For Show Notes visit: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-daniel

How are we both saved by grace, and awaiting judgment? Does Dispensationalism have a place for study and application here in 2020? Will the Church be going through the tribulation? Should Christians practice yoga? You asked, Michael Answered. Click Here for notes and timestamps for each question: https://michaelincontext.com/ask-dr-e-episode-9/

Michael teaches an overview on the book of Ezekiel. Join us as we look at what Ezekiel's visions reveal to us about God's judgment, righteousness, and mercy. Go here for show notes: https://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-ezekiel/

Michael discusses Lamentations with Rev. Dr. Christopher J H Wright. To view notes and resources mentioned in the interview, visit: http://michaelincontext.com/bonus-episode-lamentations

Michael teaches an overview of the book of Lamentations. Lamentations serves a sure and certain warning. As God's people grieve the loss of the Tabernacle, heaven remains silent. What does this tell us about who God is? How should we read and respond to this difficult text? To view Show Notes for this episode, visit: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-lamentations

Michael teaches an overview of the book of Jeremiah. The book of Jeremiah is the second-longest in the Bible. We know more about Jeremiah's life, experiences, and the pain he endured than we know of any other prophet - and we're prompted to ask ourselves: Am I 'called' the way Jeremiah was called? Join us as we rediscover how relevant this text is to our present day. View Show Notes for this episode here: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-jeremiah

Christians can feel caught in the middle on issues like Climate Change. Is the scientific data real? If you don't buy it, are you a truth denier? How should we respond as Christians? In this episode, we're bringing you expert reports from Dr. James Tour, Dr. Ron Rhodes, and Dr. E. Calvin Beisner. This is a good opportunity to think critically about what we are doing to our environment and what we can do to steward God's creation well.

Portions of the book of Isaiah are well known to many of us, but how was it heard by its first recipients? Dr. Gordon Johnston joins Michael to discuss the book of Isaiah. Do you have a biblical or theological question? Ask Dr. E! Call and leave a message with your question: 615-281-9694. Michael will answer your question on an upcoming episode!

Michael introduces the Major Prophets and teaches an overview on the book of Isaiah. Today in our series The Big Book –Cover to Cover, we transition into the Prophetic books, with Isaiah the 1st of 5 major prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel followed by the 12 minor prophets. Isaiah is perhaps one of the most loved and, in a way, important prophets of the Old Testament. To view Show Notes, visit: http://michaelincontext.com/cover-to-cover-isaiah Have a biblical or theological