エピソード

  • How Should Parents Navigate Addiction With Biblical Wisdom?

    How Should Parents Navigate Addiction With Biblical Wisdom?
    2025/06/05
    Q: A few years ago, a dear friend and his wife (mid 70’s), lost an adult son to a drug overdose. Upon that death, another son (early 50’s) confessed to his parents that he, too, was an addict. Since then, the older son has been in and out of drug rehab and has also been incarcerated several times for drug offenses. At the end of their rope, both financially and emotionally, they have given the older son a deadline to be out of the house. While in agreement and at peace (somewhat) with this decision, he and his wife are struggling with the “what if’s”. Any wisdom and/or resources that you can share on how these parents can navigate this journey would be greatly appreciated. They are believers. Summary In this conversation, Dr. E reflects on the painful tension between loving and enabling, offering hard-earned wisdom. Addiction wreaks havoc on families. The deception, manipulation, and endless cycle of rehab and relapse can leave even the most committed parents worn thin. The key question becomes: are we actually helping this child take responsibility, or are we preventing that growth by cushioning the consequences? Dr. E urges parents to lock arms in unity, prepare for difficult emotions, and remember that unconditional love doesn’t mean underwriting sin. Sometimes love means saying, “I’ll help you when you’re ready—but I will no longer enable you.” While there may not be easy answers, there is a path to navigating addiction with Biblical wisdom—even when it looks like letting go. Takeaways: Addiction affects not just the individual but the entire family. It's crucial to differentiate between helping and enabling an addict. Setting boundaries is essential for the well-being of the family. Tough love may be necessary to encourage recovery. Support from others who understand the situation is invaluable. Parents should prepare for emotional fallout when making tough decisions. Resources for addiction recovery are available and should be utilized. Recovery often involves multiple attempts and setbacks. Unconditional love does not mean supporting destructive behaviors. Links Mentioned: Focus on the Family’s Drug & Addiction Resources Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    13 分
  • Can Satan Influence Your Dreams?

    Can Satan Influence Your Dreams?
    2025/05/29
    Q: Not sure if this is the right place to ask this question, but I’m curious what your take is on spiritual attacks in dreams? Do you think it’s possible that one growing in their faith could be being attacked by the other realm during sleep or is just simply bad dreams? Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna discuss the complexities of dreams, particularly in relation to spiritual attacks and the influence of faith. They emphasize the reality of spiritual warfare, the importance of prayer, and how a strong foundation in Christ can mitigate fears associated with nightmares. The discussion also touches on parenting, encouraging children to focus on positive thoughts and dreams, and the significance of being aware of the content they consume. Bottom line? Dreams aren’t where the real battle lies. It’s about who and what you trust. Stand firm in your identity in Christ, resist the devil, and let God’s Word shape your peace. The believer's strength is not in dream interpretation—but in the indwelling power of the Spirit. Takeaways: -Demons are real, but the Holy Spirit who indwells believers is far more powerful. -Satan can tempt but cannot control a Christian’s dreams or thoughts. -Obsessing over dreams or mysticism can lead to spiritual vulnerability. -Scripture and prayer are the best defenses against spiritual anxiety—even during sleep. -Teach children to end their day focused on God to guard their imagination and rest. -Stand firm in faith, not fear—Christ has already won the battle. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    13 分
  • Is There a Biblical Way To Go About IVF?

    Is There a Biblical Way To Go About IVF?
    2025/05/22
    Q: My husband and I are looking at the option of IVF in our fertility journey. Do you think that there is a biblical way to go about this process? Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna discuss the emotional and ethical complexities of infertility, focusing on whether there is a biblical way to go about IVF. They explore key questions couples must ask—most importantly, why they want to have children—and emphasize the need for unity between spouses before pursuing any path. Drawing from personal experience and trusted Christian ethics resources, Dr. E highlights issues surrounding embryo creation, selection, and storage, as well as the emotional weight of long-term outcomes. They stress that neither IVF nor adoption is for everyone and that wisdom, prayer, and sound counsel are essential. Takeaways Adoption and IVF are not for everyone. Understanding the 'why' behind wanting a child is crucial. The ethical implications of embryo handling are significant. Couples should set a time frame for IVF procedures. Seek good counsel from trusted sources. Be cautious of advice from those with different experiences. God may provide children in unexpected ways. Links Mentioned Dr. Joy Riley interview Outside The Womb by Dr. Joy Riley and Scott Rae Focus on the family IVF article Wayne Grudem IVF article Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    11 分
  • What Does 1 Corinthians 10:14-17 Tell Us About The Lord’s Supper?

    What Does 1 Corinthians 10:14-17 Tell Us About The Lord’s Supper?
    2025/05/15
    Q: In regards to the Lord’s Supper, can you explain 1 Corinthians 10:14-17? That text has always been a conundrum for me. Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna address a question regarding the Lord's Supper, specifically focusing on 1 Corinthians 10:14-17. They explore the complexities of the passage, emphasizing the importance of understanding the elements of communion and their significance in Christian fellowship. The discussion also touches on various theological perspectives, including the concept of transubstantiation and the implications of idolatry in relation to the Lord's Supper. Takeaways The Lord's Supper is a significant aspect of Christian worship. Idolatry is a key theme in understanding the Lord's Supper. The elements of communion symbolize unity in the body of Christ. Proclaiming the Lord's death is central to the practice of communion. The act of communion should be both a moment of reflection and celebration. Understanding the context of the Lord's Supper can enhance its meaning. The Lord's Supper anticipates Christ's return and the hope of renewal. Links Mentioned ADE 228: During Communion, Does The Bread and Wine Change Into Christ’s Body and Blood? Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    13 分
  • Based on The Old Testament, is Wicked Power in High Places Being Used Today?

    Based on The Old Testament, is Wicked Power in High Places Being Used Today?
    2025/05/08
    Q: How did Pharaoh know to use his magicians and dark arts when Moses was coming to meet with him? Moses was basically dealing with “hostage“ negotiations to let the Israelites go free— seems like it would be a matter of negotiating terms rather than conjuring up the dark arts? Since the Old Testament is a foreshadow of things now, do you think that wicked power in high places is being used today? In a massive, behind the scenes way? Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna address questions about the use of dark arts in biblical times, particularly in relation to Pharaoh and Moses. They explore the nature of evil in today's world, emphasizing the importance of standing firm in faith and focusing on the personal work of Christ rather than being distracted by demonic influences. The discussion also highlights the role of prayer in spiritual warfare and critiques literary works that delve into the nature of evil, advocating for a focus on biblical truths instead. Takeaways Pharaoh’s magicians show that spiritual deception has always been a tool of the enemy. The true battle was about who is God, not about political negotiations. Evil influence still exists behind power structures today. Christians are called to stand firm, not obsess over spiritual warfare. Scripture gives us enough — we don’t need to over-study the demonic realm. Prayer is our main response to unseen battles, not fascination or fear. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    18 分
  • How Should Christians Approach Cultural Opposition in Today’s World?

    How Should Christians Approach Cultural Opposition in Today’s World?
    2025/05/01
    Q: Growing up in the 80s and 90s, having Christian ideals was about as common as speaking English. Sunday lessons were “winsome”, and friends I invited usually came back. I never felt at odds with society, ever. It was much easier to be a Christian, even when a few disagreed. Those Sundays, Wednesday night bible studies, and church camps had a lasting positive effect on me. Fast forward 30- 40 years, and it seems much more difficult to speak openly about what we believe. Our values are openly being targeted, and a Christian is wondering if the 90s playbook still works? Should we respond to these attacks “winsomely”, with grace/peace? Or should Christians go on the attack to get our values back? How best to do this in 2024? Appreciate your thoughts! P.s. We’ve been to several local churches over the last ten years. In our experience, about 80% still use the winsome technique, while about 15-20% seem to be taking the Don’t Tread On Me approach. What is “The Way”? Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna discuss the evolving nature of Christianity, the importance of effective communication within the church, and the resilience of the church despite cultural challenges. Dr. E emphasizes the need for clarity in messaging and the significance of being involved in the church community. Takeaways: Churches change, but Christ’s mission doesn’t. Biblical truth should be taught plainly, not watered down. The Church has always been messy, but God calls us to love. Less theological depth = weaker pulpits. Show up. Serve. Be part of the Church you want to see. God preserves His Church, no matter the attacks. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    11 分
  • Can You Explain The Parable of The Shrewd Manager in Luke 16?

    Can You Explain The Parable of The Shrewd Manager in Luke 16?
    2025/04/24
    Q: Dear Dr. E, I have often wondered about the meaning of Jesus’ parable in Luke 16:1-8, the shrewd manager. Can you explain? Summary In this conversation, Dr. E and Hanna discuss the parable of the shrewd manager from Luke 16, exploring its context, the actions of the characters, and the lessons it imparts about shrewdness and stewardship. Dr. E emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural background of the parable and how it relates to other biblical stories, particularly in the context of Jesus' teachings on wealth and morality. Takeaways: Context is crucial for understanding biblical parables. Jesus used parables to challenge societal norms and expectations. The master in the parable represents a figure of mercy and generosity. The parable encourages believers to leverage worldly resources for good. Understanding the cultural context enhances interpretation of scripture. Jesus' teachings often subvert traditional views of righteousness. The parable of the shrewd manager ties into broader themes of grace and redemption. Links Mentioned: Kenneth Bailey on parables Poet & Peasant and Through Peasant Eyes by Kenneth Bailey Jacob and the Prodigal by Kenneth Bailey The Good Shepherd by Kenneth Bailey "Reading Luke," Charles Talbert Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    14 分
  • Are The Gifts of The Spirit Still Active?

    Are The Gifts of The Spirit Still Active?
    2025/04/17
    Q: Are gifts of the Spirit as detailed in 1st Corinthians, chapters 11-13 still applicable or are they no longer relevant/needed in this day and age? Summary In this conversation, Dr. Michael Easley and Hanna Seymour discuss the relevance of spiritual gifts as outlined in 1 Corinthians, emphasizing their purpose and application in today's church. He explores the distinction between miraculous gifts and the innate abilities individuals possess. He encourages listeners to understand and utilize their unique gifts in service to others. The discussion also touches on the importance of love as the foundation for all spiritual gifts. Takeaways: Spiritual gifts are grace gifts given for the common good. The purpose of sign gifts was authentication of the apostles. Miracles are different from the gifts of the Spirit. Spiritual gifts can align with one's natural abilities. Love is the greatest of all gifts and should underpin all actions. The lists of spiritual gifts in the Bible are not exhaustive. Each person is uniquely created and gifted by God. Understanding your gifts can enhance your service in the church. Gifts may evolve as a person grows in faith. Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here. If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    12 分