Podcast
Michael Easley inContext
Hosted by Michael Easley · EN
Michael Easley inContext is designed to help you form a Biblical worldview through sound Biblical exposition and real-life insights.
16episodes
Episodes
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The Biblical Path to Your Desired Future with Dr. Henry Cloud
3d ago00:47:50Tap to summarizeWhat keeps people stuck between where they are and where they want to be? In this episode, Michael Easley sits down with Dr. Henry Cloud to discuss leadership, vision, psychology, faith, and the practical path toward a desired future. Drawing from Dr. Cloud’s book Your Desired Future, this conversation explores why talent alone is never enough, how relationships shape growth, and why many people struggle with fear, discouragement, and learned helplessness. Dr. Cloud explains how God designed people to grow through connection, community, humility, and purposeful action. From neuroscience and attachment theory to biblical leadership and emotional health, this episode offers practical insight for pastors, leaders, entrepreneurs, parents, creatives, and anyone trying to move forward in life and faith. Whether you feel stuck personally, spiritually, or professionally, this conversation will help you think differently about growth, leadership, and the future God may be calling you toward. Key Topics Covered -Why vision matters in leadership and life -The definition of a “desired future” -Why talent alone is not enough -Leadership, teams, and engaging the right people -Psychology and theology working together -Learned helplessness and loss of hope -Attachment theory and emotional health -Why God designed people for connection -Necessary endings and healthy leadership decisions -Spiritual maturity and becoming whole Chapters 00:00 – God Made Love the Foundation 00:39 – Introducing Dr. Henry Cloud 01:14 – Why Henry Cloud Wrote Your Desired Future 03:01 – Defining Leadership and Vision 05:05 – Psychology, Theology, and the Gospel 07:40 – God’s Design for Leadership 11:17 – The “Finley Factor” Explained 13:49 – Why Talent Alone Is Not Enough 17:15 – The Importance of Asking for Help 19:26 – Building Vision Step by Step 20:44 – Henry Cloud’s Daughter and Pursuing a Dream 24:18 – Leadership, Teams, and Necessary Talent 27:10 – Why Some People Never Reach Their Potential 30:49 – Learned Helplessness and Losing Hope 33:28 – Emotions, the Psalms, and Human Struggle 35:35 – Why Love and Attachment Matter 40:49 – Necessary Endings and Leadership Decisions 45:35 – Can People Really Change? 46:23 – Final Thoughts and Encouragement Links Mentioned Your Desired Future by Dr. Henry Cloud Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.
Transcribe →Why You Can Trust the Bible with Daniel Buttafuoco
1w ago00:36:18Tap to summarizeWhat if Christianity isn’t built on blind faith—but on real historical evidence? In this episode of inContext, Michael Easley sits down with attorney, apologist, and author Daniel Buttafuoco to discuss why Christians can confidently trust the Bible and defend their faith in today’s culture. Drawing from years as a trial lawyer, Daniel explains how the New Testament reads like eyewitness testimony in a courtroom and why the evidence for Jesus, the resurrection, and the reliability of Scripture is stronger than many believers realize. Together, they unpack common objections to Christianity, the rise of skepticism online, manuscript evidence, apologetics for everyday believers, and why so many young Christians walk away from their faith in college. If you’ve ever struggled to answer tough questions about Christianity—or wanted more confidence talking about your faith—this episode will equip and encourage you. Chapters 00:00 Why Christians Need Apologetics Today 01:43 Daniel Buttafuoco’s Journey & Historical Bible Society 04:13 Why Daniel Wrote Unapologetic 07:48 Why Many Christians Feel Afraid to Speak Up 08:13 The Evidence for Christianity Explained 10:39 Why Young Christians Are Leaving the Faith 13:04 Eyewitness Testimony & the New Testament 15:15 Was the Bible Written Too Late? 17:10 Why Christians Need Both Truth and Compassion 19:39 Do Multiple Gospel Accounts Strengthen the Case? 21:29 Can We Trust Bible Manuscripts? 24:30 Answering Claims That the Bible Was Corrupted 25:39 The Resurrection and the Missing Body of Jesus 27:18 Suffering, Faith, and Spiritual Growth 33:07 Seeing God Through Trials 34:30 Final Thoughts on Defending the Faith Key Topics Covered -Christian apologetics -Evidence for Christianity -Can the Bible be trusted? -Historical evidence for Jesus -Eyewitness testimony in the Gospels -Manuscript evidence for the Bible -Defending your faith in college and culture -The resurrection of Jesus -Faith and reason -Why young Christians deconstruct -Responding to skepticism and atheism -How Christians can answer tough questions Links Mentioned Unapologetic: Clear Answers to Tough Bible Questions by Daniel Buttafuoco
Transcribe →The Progressive Miseducation of America with Dr. Corey Miller
2w ago00:46:13Tap to summarizeWhat happened to higher education in America—and why does it matter for Christians today?In this episode of inContext, Michael Easley sits down with Dr. Corey Miller to discuss the cultural and ideological shifts transforming universities, churches, and society. Drawing from his book The Progressive Miseducation of America, Dr. Miller explains how worldview battles that began in academia are now shaping politics, media, families, and faith communities.The conversation explores the rise of critical theory, DEI ideology, the influence of the Frankfurt School, and the growing challenge Christians face in preparing the next generation for college and culture. Michael and Corey also discuss why Christians must reengage the life of the mind instead of retreating from difficult conversations.Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, pastor, educator, or student, this episode offers a sobering but hopeful challenge to think biblically, disciple intentionally, and stand firm in truth.Chapters05:35 – Why education in America has radically changed07:13 – Corey Miller’s background and journey out of Mormonism10:00 – The rise of progressive ideology in universities13:35 – Understanding DEI, critical theory, and “wokeness”19:08 – How ideology reshaped institutions and culture25:05 – Why universities influence everything downstream31:29 – The cultural consequences seen across America35:04 – Is America headed toward anarchy?36:27 – How Christians should respond to the crisis42:17 – Preparing students for college worldview battles43:20 – Are there any trustworthy universities left?50:57 – Why Christians must reclaim the life of the mindKey Topics Covered-The progressive transformation of higher education-Critical theory, DEI, and modern ideology explained-How universities shape culture and politics-The historical roots of secularism in academia-Christianity and the life of the mind-Why Christian students struggle in college environments-Preparing young adults for worldview challenges-The role of parents, pastors, and grandparents in discipleship-The influence of philosophy and education on society-Hope for Christians engaging culture with truth and convictionLinks MentionedThe Progressive Miseducation of America by Dr. Corey MillerRatio Christi website Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.
Transcribe →Faith, Fear & Being Stuck in Space with Barry ‘Butch’ Wilmore
3w ago00:51:06Tap to summarizeWhat happens when years of military training, astronaut preparation, and deep Christian conviction collide in a life-or-death moment in space? In this episode of inContext, Michael Easley sits down with astronaut Barry "Butch" Wilmore to talk about faith, perseverance, suffering, and the sovereignty of God. From flying combat missions during Desert Storm to commanding spacecraft and spending 464 days in space, Butch reflects on how Scripture shaped the way he handled pressure, disappointment, fear, and responsibility. Michael and Butch discuss what it was like to be “stuck in space,” manually flying a failing spacecraft toward the International Space Station, and why preparation, humility, accountability, and trust in God matter in every area of life. This conversation is filled with practical wisdom about leadership, spiritual growth, purpose, and living boldly for Christ in a culture that often pressures believers to stay quiet. Whether you’re facing uncertainty, discouragement, or simply trying to stay faithful where God has placed you, this episode will encourage and challenge you. Chapters 00:00 – Returning from space and adjusting to gravity 02:00 – Butch Wilmore’s journey to NASA and military service 04:26 – “Life is tough” and perseverance through trials 08:18 – Faith, hope, and trusting God’s sovereignty 14:48 – Combat missions, space travel, and astronaut training 25:31 – The terrifying Starliner docking crisis 34:01 – Why the Christian life is lived in community 35:06 – Boldly living out faith in public life 46:31 – Purpose, contentment, and serving God faithfully 49:48 – Final encouragement and closing thoughts Key Topics Covered Barry “Butch” Wilmore’s NASA and Navy career Faith during high-pressure and life-threatening situations The Boeing Starliner docking failure Perseverance, discipline, and preparation God’s sovereignty in suffering and success Biblical leadership and humility Christian community and accountability Spiritual growth and sanctification Living boldly for Christ in public life Purpose and faithfulness in every season of life Links Mentioned: Stuck in Space by Barry ‘Butch’ Wilmore Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.
Transcribe →Going Beyond Reading Your Bible with Dr. Benjamin Gladd
May 500:41:12Tap to summarizeMost Christians read the Bible—but miss what connects it. In this episode of inContext, Michael Easley sits down with Dr. Benjamin Glad to uncover what many believers overlook: the deep, intentional connections between the Old and New Testaments. They discuss Connecting Scripture in the New Testament, a unique study Bible that highlights over 3,000 Old Testament allusions embedded in the New Testament—connections that can completely reshape how you read, understand, and apply God’s Word. If you’ve ever felt like you know the Bible but struggle to live it out, this conversation will challenge and equip you. Because the goal isn’t just more knowledge—it’s transformation. Chapters 00:00 “Vitamin A Deficiency” – Why Christians Don’t Apply the Bible 02:00 Why Another Study Bible? What Makes This One Different 05:00 The Problem with Cross References (And Why We Ignore Them) 08:00 3 Types of Biblical Connections: Quotes, Allusions, Parallels 12:00 Why Allusions Matter More Than You Think 16:00 How the New Testament Uses the Old Testament 20:00 Fulfillment, Typology, and Understanding Prophecy 24:00 Reading the Bible as One Unified Story 28:00 A Powerful Example from Mark 1 32:00 From Knowledge to Application: Living the Bible 35:00 Why Most Christians Stay Stuck 38:00 Final Challenge: Stop Observing, Start Participating Key Topics Covered Why Christians struggle to apply Scripture The connection between the Old and New Testaments Biblical allusions, quotations, and typology explained How Jesus fulfills Old Testament themes Why cross-references are underused Reading the Bible as a unified story Moving from Bible knowledge to real-life transformation Links Mentioned: CSB Connecting Scripture New Testament by Dr Gregory Beale and Dr. Benjamin Gladd Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.
Transcribe →Helping Kids Love the Bible Through Story & Art with Liz and Jack Hagler
Apr 2800:33:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Michael Easley talks with Liz and Jack Hagler, the creative team behind the Patrick Wigglesworth Bible Adventure Series. Together, they share how decades of ministry, homeschooling, and creative work led to a bold vision: helping kids experience the Bible through graphic-novel storytelling that is both theologically grounded and highly engaging. Liz brings her background in illustration and design, while Jack draws from his pastoral and seminary training to shape the biblical framework behind each story. They explain the challenge of balancing biblical accuracy with creativity, and how feedback from their own children, grandchildren, and classrooms helped refine the tone, humor, and effectiveness of the series. Throughout the conversation, they emphasize the power of story, laughter, and visual learning in helping children retain Scripture. They also discuss the importance of family discipleship, memory, and creating space for kids to ask questions as they engage God’s Word. This episode is a compelling look at how faith, creativity, and storytelling can work together to shape the next generation’s understanding of Scripture. Key Topics Covered Creating engaging Bible resources for children The vision behind the Patrick Wigglesworth series Balancing biblical accuracy with creative storytelling Why laughter and imagination matter in spiritual formation How kids best engage and retain Scripture Family discipleship and reading the Bible together The role of graphic novels in modern Bible teaching Lessons learned from publishing and classroom feedback Helping kids see the “big story” of the Bible Building faith through memory, repetition, and story Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Liz & Jack Hagler 02:00 Their background in ministry, design, and engineering 05:00 The origin of the Patrick Wigglesworth idea 08:00 Developing Bible stories kids will actually read 11:00 Why humor and engagement matter for children 14:00 Designing for a 7–12 year old mindset 18:00 Field testing stories with kids and families 21:00 What makes kids respond to biblical storytelling 24:00 Challenges of adapting Scripture into story form 27:00 Creative examples from the Bible adventure series 30:00 Family discipleship and reading Scripture together 33:00 Final thoughts on faith, storytelling, and impact Links Mentioned: Patrick Wigglesworth’s Bizarre Bible Adventure Set by Liz and Jack Hagler: https://a.co/d/0aS6keEA Patrick Wigglesworth website: https://www.patrickwigglesworth.com/ Follow on Instagram and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaelinContext https://www.instagram.com/dreasley/ For more information on Dr. Michael Easley and Ask Dr. E Visit: https://www.michaelincontext.com
Transcribe →Why So Many Men Feel Alone (And How to Fix It) with Mark Warren
Apr 2100:41:07Tap to summarizeWhy are so many men feeling isolated, disconnected, and stuck? In this episode of inContext, Michael Easley sits down with Mark Warren to talk about the growing crisis facing men today—and the biblical solution most are missing. Drawing from Power of Four, Mark explains why Jesus didn’t build large groups—He built deep relationships. And in a world dominated by social media, independence, and surface-level connection, that model matters more than ever. This conversation tackles the hard truths: Why male loneliness is rising How culture has reshaped masculinity The danger of isolation and hidden struggles Why accountability is essential for spiritual growth How a small circle of trusted men can change everything If you’ve ever felt alone in your faith, struggled silently, or wondered what real brotherhood looks like—this episode will challenge and encourage you. Chapters: 00:00 Dopamine, Social Media & Addiction 00:36 Why Men Need Brotherhood 02:40 Why “Power of Four” Works 05:05 Isolation, Technology & Disconnection 08:30 The Decline of Male Friendships 11:50 How Culture Reshaped Masculinity 15:20 Why Men Don’t Ask for Help 18:10 Unaware, Unprepared, Untrained 19:30 Lifeguard Story: A Wake-Up Call 25:30 The Mentorship Gap 31:50 Confession, Accountability & Healing 38:40 Final Challenge: Don’t Do Life Alone Key Topics Covered Male loneliness and mental health Biblical model of friendship Accountability and confession Masculinity in modern culture The impact of social media on men Spiritual growth through community Links Mentioned: Power of 4 by Mark Warren, Dr. Steven Bagley, and Michael Ashley Power of 4 Ministries Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.
Transcribe →Why the Old Testament Prophets Still Matter Today with Dr. Wendy Widder
Apr 1400:37:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode of inContext, Michael Easley sits down with Dr. Wendy Widder, Old Testament scholar and author, to explore the timeless relevance of the biblical prophets. They discuss how the prophets called God’s people to covenant faithfulness, warned against idolatry, and pointed toward repentance and restoration. From interpreting prophetic poetry to understanding God’s grace in the midst of human frailty, this conversation offers insights for anyone who wants to dig deeper into Scripture and apply these truths in modern life. Whether you’re a Bible study leader, student, or simply curious about the prophetic books, this episode provides accessible guidance to help you navigate the complexity and beauty of God’s Word. Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction & Guest Background 1:47 – Dr. Witter’s New Book & Purpose of the Series 3:54 – Understanding the Role of the Prophets 8:11 – Human Nature Then and Now 10:44 – Covenant Faithfulness and God’s Conscience 15:00 – Idolatry, Repentance, and Judgment 20:19 – Figures of Speech in Prophetic Poetry 26:59 – Applying the Prophets in Modern Life 30:55 – God’s Grace in Human Frailty 34:12 – Who Should Read & Use These Books Key Topics Covered: The covenant role of Old Testament prophets Repentance and returning to God Idolatry in ancient and modern contexts God’s grace and love despite human failure Prophetic poetry and figurative language Practical application for today’s believer Links Mentioned: Old Testament Prophets by Dr. Wendy Widder Dr. Widder's Website Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.
Transcribe →The Cultural Lies Trapping the Next Generation with Mark Hopson
Apr 700:46:52Tap to summarizeIn this episode of InContext with Michael Easley, Michael Easley talks with Mark Hopson about the growing cultural confusion facing the next generation—and why the gospel is the only message powerful enough to bring true freedom. Hopson leads Decision Point, a ministry that equips students to share the gospel boldly in their public schools. Drawing from his book Set Free, he explains how many young people today are being shaped by powerful cultural lies about identity, sexuality, truth, and purpose. But the gospel offers something culture never can: real freedom. Through powerful testimonies—including stories of people coming out of atheism, pornography, and sexual identity struggles—this conversation shows how Jesus not only forgives sin’s penalty but also breaks sin’s power. Key Topics Covered Cultural lies shaping the next generation -Why teenagers are facing unprecedented worldview confusion -The mission of Decision Point to equip students for evangelism -The story and purpose behind the book Set Free -How testimonies help people see the truth of the gospel -Freedom from sin’s penalty and sin’s power through Christ -The spiritual battle teenagers face in public schools -Cultural pressure around sexuality and identity -The importance of courage, truth, and compassion in evangelism -How churches and parents can equip students to stand firm in their faith -The hope of real transformation through the gospel Chapters 0:00 Introduction 2:30 Why Set Free Was Written 5:05 The Cultural Lies Shaping Teens Today 8:15 Is Atheism Losing Ground? 10:45 The Power of Testimony in Evangelism 13:10 The Destructive Reality of Pornography 18:20 Can Christians Be Enslaved to Sin? 22:30 Freedom From Sin’s Power 26:45 The Cultural Explosion of Gender Ideology 31:40 What Christian Students Face in Public Schools 36:20 The Courage of Young Believers 40:05 What It Means to Be Truly Set Free 44:30 How to Fight Sin and Walk in Victory 47:15 The Hope of the Gospel 48:40 Final Encouragement for Parents and Churches Links Mentioned: Set Free by Mark Hopson Decision Point Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.
Transcribe →The Story of The Trinity with Dr. Bryan Litfin
Mar 3100:38:49Tap to summarizeWas the Trinity invented in the fourth century? Or was it always there in Scripture? On this episode of inContext, Michael Easley sits down with church historian Bryan Litfin to discuss his book, The Story of the Trinity: Controversy, Crisis, and the Creation of the Nicene Creed. Together they explore why the Trinity was not created at First Council of Nicaea, but clarified there. From the Shema in Deuteronomy to the Son of Man in Daniel, and from the Gospels to Pentecost, Scripture consistently reveals one God in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Chapters 00:00 Why the Trinity Matters for Salvation 03:00 Why Evangelicals Are Rediscovering the Nicene Creed 08:00 What Is a Creed? (And Why It’s Not Above Scripture) 14:00 Monotheism in a Polytheistic World 22:00 Theophanies and Christ in the Old Testament 30:00 Jesus as the Son of God and Son of Man 36:00 The Holy Spirit and the Fulfillment of the New Covenant 42:00 Was the Trinity Invented at Nicaea? Key Topics Discussed: -Why creeds matter for modern evangelicals -How Jesus understood Himself as the Son sent by the Father -The Holy Spirit’s role in fulfilling the New Covenant -Why theology is essential—not optional—for salvation -If God is not truly Trinitarian, there is no incarnation, no atonement, and no indwelling Spirit. Links Mentioned: The Story of The Trinity by Dr. Bryan Litfin More About Dr. Litfin Follow on Instagram and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichaelinContext https://www.instagram.com/dreasley/ For more information on Dr. Michael Easley and Ask Dr. E Visit: https://www.michaelincontext.com
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