Michael Easley inContext

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.

Summary: In this episode, Mike Glenn and Dr. Michael Easley explore the challenges and opportunities facing pastors and believers today. They begin by addressing the deep regrets many carry—especially the regret of not living the life they truly desire—and how salvation is not just about eternity but aligning with Christ’s will to live fully now. Mike shares a powerful distinction between wishing and wanting, urging intentional action in marriage, ministry, and personal growth.  They discuss the pressure on young pastors to chase bigger platforms instead of faithfully serving their current communities, encouraging contentment and focus on growth where God places you. The conversation highlights the importance of accountability, not as judgment but as loving reminders of who God created us to be. They also emphasize the need for clear, accessible communication in preaching, bridging deep theology with everyday language. Finally, Dr. Easley challenges the misconception that following Jesus means weakness, pointing to Christ’s fierce strength in protecting His people and confronting evil. This engaging dialogue offers wisdom and encouragement for pastors and Christians seeking to grow in faith, courage, and purpose in a complex world. Takeaways: Wanting means taking intentional steps; wishing alone won’t bring change. Contentment grows by serving faithfully where God places you, not chasing bigger stages. Accountability is an act of love, calling us back to our true identity in Christ. Preaching must balance theological depth with clear, relatable communication. Jesus is strength, confronting evil and defending His people with power Links Mentioned: Preaching in a Post Truth World by Mike Glenn Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Summary: In this episode, Michael Easley sits down with Dan Bolin to share a deeply personal story of loss, faith, and enduring hope. Dan recounts the journey of his daughter’s leukemia diagnosis, years of treatments, and the heartbreaking day she passed away. Through his family’s story, we see the raw reality of grief—anniversaries that reopen wounds, moments when well-meaning friends don’t know what to say, and the quiet ways God’s grace holds us together. Dan reflects on how seasons of calm prepare us for storms, how couples grieve differently, and how the support of a close-knit community makes survival possible. He draws comfort from Scripture—passages like 1 Peter 1 and Habakkuk—that remind believers suffering is temporary and refining, and that ultimate joy awaits in Christ. For anyone walking through loss or coming alongside someone who is, Dan’s story offers perspective: grief is real, storms are fierce, but God’s promises remain steady. Takeaways: Anniversaries of loss often resurface deep grief. Prepare for storms in calm seasons by leaning into God and community. Trusted friends who simply show up can be life-giving in crisis. Couples grieve differently and need grace for each other’s process. Scripture reframes suffering as refining, not meaningless. True hope looks beyond this life to eternity with Christ. Links Mentioned: October Storm by Dr. Dan Bolin Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.