Hey Mama Bears! In this episode, Hilary and Amy tackle a growing trend we’ve seen online: calling out churches in a way that crosses from accountability into straight-up bashing. One post in particular claimed that churches without special needs ministries are leading people away from God—and whew, we’ve got thoughts. We unpack the difference between genuine concerns and unfair criticism, especially when it comes to things like flashy worship, big congregations, and limited resources. Are we pointing out sin, or just style differences?We want to explore this topic with grace, wisdom and discernment. So we invite you to ROAR through the claims made in the article we open with. With our usual dose of humor, biblical grounding, and mama bear honesty, we talk emotional maturity, grace-filled critique, and how to have real conversations that build up the Body of Christ instead of tearing it down.​Main Points CoveredWhy Everyone’s Suddenly Mad at the ChurchWhen Critique Turns into a TantrumCalling Out vs. Tearing DownMinistry Ain’t Easy—Show Some Grace!Accountability or Condemnation?How to Call Things Out Without Being a JerkBuilding a Culture of Healthy AccountabilityCheering for the Church While Still Being HonestThanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Hey Mama Bears! Today, we’re tackling some big misconceptions about the Holy Spirit. He’s not just a mystical force or a gut feeling—He’s a person, fully God, with wisdom, and power. And getting this right matters! A.W. Tozer and R.A. Torrey remind us that a faulty view of the Holy Spirit can lead to serious theological errors. So, let’s dive into Scripture—Acts, Romans, and Galatians—to see who He really is and what that means for us.Now, what’s the real evidence of the Spirit at work? It’s not just spiritual gifts or dramatic experiences—it’s the fruit of the Spirit (yep, even patience in the middle of toddler tantrums). He’s our Advocate, Comforter, and the One who intercedes when we don’t have the words. And when we look at Stephen in Acts, we see the kind of bold faith the Spirit empowers—exactly what we want for our kids.So, how do we teach our kids about the Holy Spirit? We’ll break it down into everyday conversations that make sense, tackling tough questions (like the “unforgivable sin”) with biblical clarity. Because theology isn’t just for scholars—it’s for mamas raising the next generation of disciples.Main Points CoveredUnderstanding the Holy Spirit Through ScriptureThe Role of the Holy SpiritPresence of the Holy SpiritHow to Teach Our Kids About the Holy SpiritUnfamiliar VocabularyOmnipotence: An attribute belonging solely to God. The property of being all-powerful.Omniscience: An attribute belonging solely to God. The property of being all-knowing.Omnipresence: An attribute belonging solely to God. The property of being ever-present.Blasphemy: to speak with contempt about God or to be defiantly irreverent.Unforgivable Sin: Complete hardening of one’s heart and rejection of God, belittling and mockery of the world of the HS unto deathPeople and Resources MentionedGrasping God’s Word by Duvall & HaysTheology for Today by Elmer TownsWomen of Faith DevotionalHappy Lies - Melissa Dougherty Josh Howerton SermonVisit our website for a list of Scriptures—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Dive into the art of biblical interpretation and discover why it's crucial for nurturing faith in kids. Explore the difference between exegesis and eisegesis to avoid twisting scripture to fit personal beliefs. Embrace humility and context, recognizing how our backgrounds can influence our understanding. Learn how to uncover theological principles and apply them to modern life. Lastly, gain practical tips for discussing faith with your children and navigating scriptural disagreements. Equip the next generation with a solid foundation in truth!

In this episode, we’re exploring the intersection of Christian values and politics in a divided world. How do we apply our faith in the political realm? We’ll discuss the importance of humility in conversations, especially with teens who are forming their own views.We’ll also examine the roles of government and church in issues like border policies through the lens of Scripture, looking at Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Peter. And we discuss essential rules and tools for how to navigate these, very oftentimes, difficult conversations with those you disagree with — emphasizing the importance of clear definitions, humility, and empathy in discussions. Drawing on tactics from historical movements, we’ll discuss how specific, actionable goals are more effective than vague ones. We hope to remind you to stay grounded in faith, engage in face-to-face conversations, and approach these issues with wisdom and grace.​Main Points CoveredNavigating Christian Principles and PoliticsGovernment, Church, and Morality DebateSpecificity vs. Generalization in DiscourseNavigating Emotional Responses in DialogueSeeking Truth and Humility in DialogueBuilding Relationships Through Respectful DialoguePeople and Resources MentionedBorder StatsBasic Requirements for Unlawful Immigrants Rules for Radicals by Saul AlinskyActs 5:29Romans 13:1-51 Peter 2:13-17Romans 13:1-71 Timothy 2:1-3Ephesians 6:12Thanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Wesley Huff, Director of Apologetics Canada and a PhD candidate in theology, shares invaluable insights from his engaging interviews. He emphasizes the importance of graceful apologetics and respecting every person's dignity while addressing misconceptions. Huff discusses effective scriptural interpretation and the role of humility in correcting errors. Parents can learn how to foster critical thinking and spiritual growth in their children, all while preparing them for respectful dialogues about faith.

Join us as we kick off the new year with a conversation about prayer, featuring Julie Loos, co-author of "Honest Prayers for Mama Bears." We explore the challenges that mothers face, such as the guilt from busy schedules and the fear of missing opportunities to teach children about prayer. Julie's story is a testament to the power of prayer in personal faith and spiritual warfare, offering encouragement to mothers eager to strengthen their prayer lives and pass on a legacy of faith.Throughout the episode, we discuss the unique nature of each child's faith journey and the importance of tailoring spiritual guidance to individual personalities. Reflecting on Proverbs 22:6, we consider how to train children in ways that align with their strengths. By modeling prayer habits and encouraging creative expressions such as journaling and art, we can engage children in a meaningful connection with God. Whether you're a parent looking to enhance your family's prayer practices or seeking tools for teaching kids to pray, this episode offers invaluable tools and insights in how to incorporate prayer regularly in your family rhythms.​Main Points CoveredTeaching Kids Intentional PrayerNavigating Prayer and Daily ChallengesWalking Through The Lord's PrayerStructured Family Prayer IdeasFostering Personal Prayer in ChildrenAccountability and Community in PrayerUnfamiliar VocabularySupplication: This is a form of prayer where one makes a humble and earnest request or petition to God.Intercession: This type of prayer involves praying on behalf of others. It's a form of petition for someone else's needs or issues.People and Resources MentionedVideo by The Bible ProjectEvery Moment Holy BookHonest Prayers for Mama Bears BookPray by The Daily Grace Co.Moms in Prayer WebsiteEphesians 6:18Luke 18:1Mathew 26:41Philippians 4:6Matthew 6:9-13Luke 11:2-4Matthew 6:6Thanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Have you ever faced the heart-wrenching challenge of having your child walk away from their faith? On this episode, Mary Comm joins us to share her profound journey of learning to love and relate to her adult prodigal child. With authenticity and vulnerability, Mary opens up about her own past as a prodigal, shedding light on the nuanced differences between genuine estrangement and simple familial disagreements. This episode promises a wealth of guidance for parents navigating these emotionally charged waters, especially within the Christian community. We discuss the spiritual battles faced by families, drawing wisdom from biblical stories like the prodigal son and Job. We examine how these challenges can test not only the faith of children but also of parents, particularly those serving in ministry. Feelings of shame and guilt often accompany these experiences, isolating parents and making them question their roles. By fostering openness and honesty within church communities, we hope to dismantle these barriers, providing a safe space for mutual support and healing.Our conversation also touches on the importance of setting healthy boundaries and maintaining love and compassion amidst differences. Through Mary's wisdom, we emphasize the vital role of prayer and resilience in parenting. Whether it's through modeling authentic faith or utilizing support systems like Uncommon Love Ministries, we aim to reassure parents that their role and ministry are never truly over. Join us as we offer encouragement and practical advice, demonstrating that parents can navigate the complexities of their children's paths without losing hope.Main Points CoveredWhat tools does the enemy use against parents?Navigating relationships with Prodigal ChildrenNavigating boundaries with Prodigal ChildrenPractical tips for parents of young kids.Practical tips for parents of Prodigal Children.Unfamiliar VocabularyProdigal: A child who chooses to leave or reject their family.People and Resources MentionedChrist over Culture by Andrea CrumMama Bear Apologetics BookUncommon Love MinistriesThanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

This episode of Mama Bear Apologetics takes you on a journey through the creative landscape of the new Netflix movie "Mary," directed by D.J. Caruso. Drawing inspiration from the pseudo-evangelical book of James, we dissect how this film reimagines the Christmas story, providing parents with guidance on navigating its differences from biblical accounts. Our goal is to equip you with the insights needed to foster meaningful conversations with your kids about faith, scripture, and the importance of historical and theological contexts.We consider the creative liberties taken by the filmmakers and how these narrative choices can serve as conversation starters with our kids about faith and scripture. By comparing these portrayals to traditional biblical texts, we invite families to appreciate the strength and courage of Mary and Joseph's story, often overlooked in Protestant narratives, and reflect on the film's helpful and harmful perspectives. As the Christmas season unfolds, let's consider how to engage your children in Christ-centered conversations that rise above the holiday hustle and bustle. Main Points CoveredSummary of Netflix's MaryWhat is the message of the filmGood and problematic elements of the filmHow to help kids discern the messageHow to reinforce the true message found in scriptureUnfamiliar VocabularyPseudo-evangelical: The book claims to be written by the brother of Jesus, but in fact is not.Apocryphal: Not divinely inspired and filled with historical and theological inaccuracies.People and Resources MentionedMary on NetflixMatthew 1:21Proverbs 3:5Psalm 118:8-14John 15:5Book of LukeBook of MatthewIsaiah 7:14James 1:2-4Interview by Mama's Geeky with Noa Cohen and D.J. CarusoThe Very First Noel by Exclaim EntertainmentThe Birth of Jesus depicted in the mini-series “The Bible” by Lightworkers MediaReferenced quotes found—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Join us in this thought-provoking episode of the Mama Bear Apologetics podcast as we tackle the challenging task of discussing racism and social justice with children from a biblical perspective. We're excited to welcome our friends and esteemed guests, Krista Bontrager and Monique Duson, authors of the insightful book "Walking in Unity." Together, we explore how to communicate love, justice, and racial unity amidst today's tense political climate. We emphasize the importance of defining terms clearly and understanding their roots in social sciences, ensuring that parents and educators can engage in meaningful conversations with the younger generation.We also examine the complexities of systemic racism and the role of power in societal structures, urging critical analysis before attributing disparities solely to racism. We critique contemporary models of racial reconciliation, highlighting the biblical concept of unity through faith in Jesus, and explore the themes of identity beyond race. This discussion is designed to equip parents with the tools needed to guide their children in understanding their identity in Christ while celebrating their cultural heritage.Main Points CoveredDefining Racism and Bias BiblicallyBiblical Unity vs. Racial ReconciliationUnderstanding Identity Beyond RaceNavigating Disparities and Racial InjusticeEquipping Kids on Biblical IdentityUnfamiliar VocabularySocial Justice: the idea that everyone should have equal rights, opportunities, and treatment, regardless of their race, class, gender, sexuality, or other identity. Often accompanied with programs/legislation for advancement.Institutional/Systemic Racism: a system of policies, practices, and beliefs that results in the unfair treatment of people based on their race.Racial Reconciliation: holds many of the same tenants as anti-racism. It is a works based system aimed and unity across races and socioeconomic classes.Creation Identity: Things that are true about us, from God’s perspective, for all humans, at all times, in all places.Salvation Identity: An identity gained through putting your faith, hope, and confidence in Jesus.People and Resources MentionedVisit: centerforbiblicalunity.comBuy: Walking in UnityDownload: Center For Biblical Unity appJohn 17John 1Genesis 1-3Thanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Our culture is heavily evangelistic in shaping our child’s worldview identity, which is why we Christian parents are called to speak up! In this first episode of a two-part series, Amy interviews Ricky Chelette of Living Hope Ministries on how to raise gender healthy boys.In Raising Gender Healthy Girls, Ricky graciously addressed the girly-girls and the tomboys of the group. He debunks the cultural stereotype that parents are helpless on-lookers when girls get emotional, but instead offers tangible ways both mom and dad are to nurture their growing daughter to help her be secure in her womanly identity. Funny, accessible, and filled with practical steps, listeners will be empowered to know their daughter better and raise her up to the glory of God.Main Points CoveredThe importance of nurturing gender healthy kids todayUnderstanding your Girl(s)What individual girls need from Mom and DadSuggestions for when you're struggling to connect with your girlWhat can dads and families do when they don’t have a present/stable mother figure within the home?Unfamiliar VocabularyGirly Girl: Love all the things classically associated with femininity.Tomboy Girl: More sporty and outdoorsy and “girly things” are less appealing to her.People and Resources Mentionedwww.livehope.orgwww.biblicalsexuality.netwww.mamabearapologetics.com—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co