Episodios

  • Does Jesus Love Us or Is He Just Obeying The Father?

    Does Jesus Love Us or Is He Just Obeying The Father?
    Aug 14 2025
    Q: "Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so." Can you help me see where in the Bible it teaches that Jesus specifically loves us? I see good verses on the love of God the father and a lot on the obedience of Jesus' sacrifice. But where does the Bible say or support the notion that Jesus has specific love for us as opposed to a general obedience out of love for the Father? Summary: In this episode, Dr. E tackles a heartfelt question: Does Jesus specifically love us, or is His love simply obedience to the Father? Through careful Scripture study—from Deuteronomy and John to Romans—Dr. E explains that Jesus’ love is deeply personal and rooted in God’s faithful promises, not our worthiness or numbers. He emphasizes that Jesus and the Father share one love, and Jesus calls us to abide in that love by keeping His commandments, which leads to true joy and fullness in our lives. To illustrate the depth of God’s love, Dr. E reflects on the unique and powerful love parents feel for their firstborn children as a glimpse of God’s love for us as His image bearers. This conversation encourages believers to rest confidently in Jesus’ specific and abiding love, and to let that love shape how we love others daily. Takeaways: Jesus loves us personally, not just generally out of obedience to the Father. God’s love for His people is based on His faithful promises, not their merit. Jesus commands us to abide in His love by keeping His commandments. The joy of Jesus’ love is made full in those who remain connected to Him. Parental love gives us a small glimpse of how deeply God loves His image bearers. 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.
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    13 m
  • Does Israel Still Matter to God Today?

    Does Israel Still Matter to God Today?
    Aug 7 2025
    Q: In lots of your sermons and interviews I hear you say that it is God’s will for us (as Christians) to go to Israel. Why is that? Also, could you explain replacement theology and what you believe instead? Does God still have a plan for His people through end times? Might be too many questions but with how much the world has been against Israel and Jews in general. I have struggled through these things lately in God’s word to try and push back the world's beliefs. Thank you for all you do! Summary In this episode, Dr. E addresses a listener’s questions about Israel, replacement theology, and God’s ongoing plan for His chosen people. Many Christians wonder: Why should believers visit Israel? Does the modern church replace Israel in God’s redemptive story? And does God still have a unique plan for the Jewish people today? Dr. E explains how walking the land of Israel transforms a believer’s understanding of Scripture—turning the “black-and-white text” into “holographic color.” He also contrasts biblical teaching with replacement theology, which claims the church has superseded Israel. Drawing from passages like Romans 9–11 and Deuteronomy 30, Dr. E highlights God’s steadfast love and His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—promises that cannot simply be erased. Ultimately, this conversation invites Christians to approach Scripture with humility, honoring God’s faithfulness to Israel while anticipating the future fulfillment of His plan in the new heavens, new earth, and new Jerusalem. Takeaways Visiting Israel transforms how believers read and understand the Bible. Replacement theology claims the church has superseded Israel in God’s plan. Scripture consistently affirms God’s covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants. Romans 9–11 and Deuteronomy 30 are essential to understanding God’s plan for Israel. God’s steadfast love reflects His loyalty to His chosen people. Christians should let Scripture, not trends in theology, guide their understanding of Israel. Links Mentioned: The Moody Handbook of Theology by Paul Enns 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.
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    9 m
  • Is It Wrong to Let AI Help Us Create Something We Feel Unable to Express?

    Is It Wrong to Let AI Help Us Create Something We Feel Unable to Express?
    Jul 31 2025
    Q:I watched your YT session on "If Christians should use AI". I have a dilemma currently with music. I only listen to Faith/Christian music and recently have found some new music that I am very much enjoying. I always do research on the band/music/song to ensure it is morally within the context of Scripture and the message is directed about Jesus. However, I found out that this new Christian/Faith music that I was listening to was AI created. The publisher of the music on social media has openly admitted that the songs are AI created. The messages in the songs are (in my belief) to be strong Christian messages. I do have some reservations with AI creating songs like this. I am not sure if I am over-reacting to this, but it scares me somewhat. One day we may not know what AI created and passed as someone's work. Would it be wrong to let AI help us create something that we feel are unable to express? It seems that we are cheating in some way by using AI. Summary: In this episode, Dr. E tackles a question about whether or not it's wrong to let AI help us creatively. AI isn’t inherently evil. It’s a tool—like electricity or a microwave. It can help us find information, speed up tasks, and even assist in medicine. But when it starts replacing our thinking, our creativity, or our worship, we need to pause. MIT research shows that relying on AI can actually reduce how our brains function. That’s not just a tech issue. That’s a spiritual issue. We’re image-bearers of a creative God. We’re meant to struggle, to think, to wrestle with truth and beauty. Taking shortcuts with something as sacred as worship or prayer robs us of the growth God intended. AI might be efficient, but it’s not inspired. Takeaways: AI is a tool, not a substitute for the God-given work of creativity and discipleship. Outsourcing creative labor to AI can undermine spiritual formation. AI-generated messages, even with good theology, lack the soul of human wrestling. MIT studies show AI use diminishes brain activity and engagement over time. Christians should be cautious about “cheating” their way through expressions of faith. We are image-bearers of a Creator—designed to think, feel, and create, not copy. Links Mentioned: Should Christians Use AI? The Kerby Anderson interview Michael mentions will come out on 8/5. We'll update this with the link once it's live but you can subscribe here to keep an eye out. Kerby Anderson on AI use John Piper ChatGPT Prayer 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.
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    11 m
  • When Was Satan Cast Out of Heaven?

    When Was Satan Cast Out of Heaven?
    Jul 24 2025
    Q: Hi Dr. E, Based on Revelation 12:9, when was Satan cast out of heaven? Could you give me Scriptures for your reasoning? Thanks so much! Summary In this episode, Dr. E unpacks Revelation 12:9 and explores what Scripture reveals about Satan’s fall, his defeat, and final judgment. From his rebellion and role in Eden to his defeat at the cross and expulsion during the tribulation, Dr. E outlines the key stages of Satan’s downfall. He addresses the complex theological implications of evil still being active even as believers are with God in heaven. Dr. E also explains the shifting scholarly interpretations of Isaiah and Ezekiel, passages long associated with Satan but increasingly seen as addressing earthly kings. He affirms that while some details remain mysterious, the overarching truth is clear: Satan is a defeated enemy, and God is sovereign over all. The question of whether there is mourning in heaven today is ultimately tied to the hope of final restoration. While sorrow may exist in a limited or temporary sense, heaven is defined by God’s presence—and His plan leads to a future where mourning is forever removed. Takeaways Satan's defeat was pronounced in Eden and finalized at the cross. Revelation 12 places Satan’s final expulsion during the tribulation. Solid theological resources help us navigate complex doctrines. God's sovereignty and ultimate victory are never in doubt. Theology should lead to faithful living, not just curiosity. Links Mentioned: The Moody Handbook of Theology by Paul Enns 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.
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    11 m
  • Why Do We Call God, Jesus, and The Holy Spirit The Trinity?

    Why Do We Call God, Jesus, and The Holy Spirit The Trinity?
    Jul 17 2025
    Q: Over the past few episodes or so, I believe I heard that “the Trinity” is not found in the Bible. This inspired some study, and now I’m wondering why we call God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit the Trinity at all? It seems that, before the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, early Christians had differing ways of describing them, usually referring to them as separate, but not necessarily as a 3-in-1. As a child, I tried to think of the Trinity like an apple with the outer part, inner part, and the seeds being separate but one, and that being like God. But that was still incredibly confusing. Is that confusion necessary, if it’s not actually described that way in the Bible? What if we went back to the early Christian way of understanding, that the relationship between them is not fully defined? More mysterious, but maybe more precise that way? Thanks for your thoughts! Summary: Dr. E addresses a listener’s question regarding the Trinity. Dr. E affirms that while the term “Trinity” doesn’t appear in Scripture, the truth of the Trinity is clearly taught throughout. He explains that God exists as three united persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—without separate existence, forming one divine essence. Using passages like Matthew 3:16–17, 1 Corinthians 12:4–7, and others, Dr. Easley shows how Scripture reveals each person of the Godhead functioning distinctly yet in perfect unity. He cautions against modalism and stresses the importance of clarity over mystery. The early church wrestled with how to define the Trinity, but Scripture drives us toward this essential doctrine for understanding salvation: the Father sends the Son, the Son accomplishes redemption, and the Spirit indwells believers. While mysterious, the Trinity is vital—foundational to Christianity and unmistakably present in the biblical narrative. In short, we don’t believe in three gods—we believe in one God, three persons, co-equal and co-eternal. Takeaways: The word “Trinity” isn’t in Scripture, but the doctrine is clearly taught. God exists as three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—in one divine essence. Analogies like water or apples oversimplify and often misrepresent the Trinity. Scripture presents the Father sending the Son, the Son sending the Spirit, and the Spirit indwelling believers. The Trinity is essential for understanding salvation and God’s relational nature. We worship one God in three persons—not three gods, and not one God acting in different modes. Links Mentioned: The Moody Handbook of Theology by Paul Enns 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.
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    10 m
  • How Do Evangelicals Engage Catholics with Grace and Conviction?

    How Do Evangelicals Engage Catholics with Grace and Conviction?
    Jul 10 2025
    Q: I go to a Christian college and many students, including some of my friends, are converting to Catholicism. Here are my questions: What are your insights on how to engage with them when they are talking about it? I am concerned they are leaning more towards works rather than trusting in the finished work of Jesus. What are things that I can do as a friend veer towards judgement? I am trying to show love to them but also pointing out their bad theology. They are also very focused on Mary being the Saint. How would you respond to that? Are there books you recommend to help me understand the differences between Catholics and Evangelicals? Summary: In this episode, Dr. E and Hanna explore how to engage Catholics with grace by discussing the theological differences between Catholicism and Evangelicalism, especially regarding faith, works, and the role of tradition. They stress the importance of understanding both faiths’ core beliefs and encourage believers to approach conversations with kindness and patience. The conversation also underscores the significance of prayer and the desire for greater depth in spiritual practices. Takeaways: Salvation by grace alone, through faith, is non-negotiable in evangelical theology. Catholicism often elevates tradition and ritual above Scripture. Worship of Mary and the saints lacks biblical support. Protestantism emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ’s finished work on the cross. Many Catholics don’t fully understand their own church's doctrine. Engage friends with love, prayer, and Scripture—not argument. Links Mentioned: Chris Castaldo on inContext 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.
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    19 m
  • How Do Rewards at The Final Judgment Fit With Our Freedom in Christ?

    How Do Rewards at The Final Judgment Fit With Our Freedom in Christ?
    Jul 3 2025
    Q: I’m studying Revelation chapter 20 with BSF right now. I’ve never understood something about the final judgement. How do we reconcile verses such as Matthew 16:27 referencing the rewards individual believers will receive during the final judgment with teachings found in Galatians about freedom from the law (behavior and sins condemnation) and concepts such as every good and perfect gift comes from the father of lights. I think I’ve heard in church, about rewards and extra jewels in your crown, but I’m not certain where that is in the Bible. It is a little confusing to consider freedom through Christ and also a reward system that doesn’t equally reward if we can’t add or take away anything from the work of Christ on the cross. Summary In this episode , Dr. E and Hanna tackle a nuanced question about Revelation 20 and the concept of eternal rewards. Drawing from multiple New Testament passages, Dr. E outlines seven distinct judgments found in Scripture, explaining the Judgment Seat of Christ as a moment for believers' works—not their salvation—to be evaluated. He unpacks how rewards in heaven are not based on merit, but are gracious gifts from God, rooted in faithfulness and obedience. The conversation explores the meaning of crowns, such as the crown of righteousness and the unfading crown of glory, and how believers will ultimately cast these rewards before Christ’s throne. They also reflect on the earthly mindset that struggles with the idea of disparity in heaven and offer reassurance that envy and pride will be absent in eternity. This episode encourages believers to live faithfully now, knowing that our lives carry eternal significance beyond what we can see. Takeaways Eternal rewards are not about merit but about faithfulness and obedience to God. Scripture describes multiple types of judgment, including the judgment seat for believers. Crowns of righteousness and glory are symbols of God’s gracious recognition. Rewards will be cast at Christ’s feet—there’s no room for pride or envy in eternity. Modern culture often downplays eternal life, but Jesus emphasized it repeatedly. Living with an eternal perspective reshapes how we view our work, suffering, and purpose. Links Mentioned: Why Should We Care About Eternal Rewards? 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.
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    20 m
  • Does Division in The Church Displease The Lord?

    Does Division in The Church Displease The Lord?
    Jun 26 2025
    Q: Knowing division in the church displeases the Lord, what are your thoughts about the “sharp disagreement” between Paul and Barnabas. How should it have been handled? Summary: In this episode Dr. E and Hanna address a question about the sharp disagreement between Paul and Barnabas recorded in Acts 15. They discuss how they should have handled their conflict, assuming that division in the church displeases the Lord. Dr. Easley begins by reminding believers that the Bible is not always prescriptive; sometimes it simply describes what happened. The disagreement centered on John Mark, who had deserted their mission earlier, causing tension. Paul was firm and cautious, while Barnabas, the “son of encouragement,” took a more compassionate approach. This resulted in them parting ways, but God used that division for good, expanding the missionary work as they went different directions. Dr. E emphasizes that believers are sinful, prone to conflict, and that sometimes peace isn’t fully possible. He encourages humility and prayer, trusting God to work through even broken situations. Finally, he urges believers to keep the church’s mission—evangelism and discipleship—at the forefront, rather than getting caught up in internal disputes. Ultimately, God can bring good even from sharp disagreements. Takeaways: The Bible sometimes describes conflicts without giving a “how-to” fix. Paul and Barnabas parted ways over John Mark’s earlier desertion. Barnabas showed compassion; Paul took a firmer stance. God used their disagreement to expand the missionary effort. Peace isn’t always possible, but believers should pursue it so far as it depends on you. The church’s mission of evangelism and discipleship should always be the priority over internal disputes. 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.
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    13 m