Today's conversation on Back Porch Theology is the part-two sequel of An Antidote to Self-Centeredness Disguised as Spirituality. The bottom line is, it's more important than ever to embrace the gospel story as the ultimate lens through which we understand life or pretty soon everything's going to become blurry. Which underscores the new for a new kind of catechism - a fresh way to understand and communicate the concrete, biblical scaffolding of our belief system as Christ-followers. Dr. Trevin Wax calls what we're talking about today a disruptive discipleship tool...Alli and I can guarantee it'll put fresh wind in your sails. So please grab your favorite beverage and your Bible and pull your chair right next to ours on this proverbial porch - we're really glad you're here!
Hello, my friend. Thanks for joining me today.
This summer on the podcast we've been studying the life of Joseph to learn how God helps us get through painful and difficult parts of life. This week we're deviating a bit from Joseph to take a look at the role his brothers play in the story. Maybe as you're listening you relate more to Jacob's other sons. If that's you, be encouraged, friend - God is still working.
Have you ever struggled to connect with others? In this episode, Christine Caine continues unpacks the powerful encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman in John 4. She reveals how Jesus built bridges instead of walls-choosing compassion over condemnation, relationship over religious activity. With practical wisdom, Christine challenges us to stop trying to play the Holy Spirit in others' lives and start showing up with love, empathy, and truth. Whether you're longing to grow in relational impact, spiritual wisdom, or gospel effectiveness, this message will help you live in a way that reflects the heart of Jesus.
What you'll learn:
- How to discover common ground.
- Why revival often begins with connection, not correction.
- Practical ways to share the hope of Jesus with those around you.
This is part of our Resilient Hope Summer series - real talk and encouragement to keep your faith strong in every season.
Don't forget to grab your free Episode Reflection Guide here!
P.S. We made a bonus resource for you this summer. Download your free 'Hope Kit' now!
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Christine Caine is a speaker, activist, and best-selling author. She and her husband, Nick, founded the anti-human trafficking organization The A21 Campaign. They also founded Propel Women, an initiative that is dedicated to coming alongside women all over the globe to activate their God-given purpose. Each week she brings you a Gospel-centered message filled with Biblical truths that will equip and empower you to step into the life God has for you.
During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology Alli and I are diving into the swampy waters of ideology with Dr. Trevin Wax. Trevin will help us understand and learn how to better practice what some have called counter-catechesis - that is sorting out our Christian belief system in a thoughtful way that effectively says, "You've heard it communicated like this on a popular podcast or Instagram reel, but now let's look at what the Bible actually says about that issue." Grab a caffeinated beverage and a hearty snack, plus your Bible and a notebook if you've got one handy, and then come pull up a chair on the porch with us. We're really glad you're here!
Hi, friend. I hope you're doing well today.
For anyone who's ever been treated badly-in other words, everyone-Colossians 3:13 offers one of the New Testament's most challenging admonitions: "even as Christ forgave you, so you must also do." Really, God? you might think. I'm supposed to just forgive them? I know it's not easy, and it won't be a straight line. But, with God's help, you will find the space of grace.
Are recent setbacks or struggles leaving you feeling defeated and discouraged? Now is the time to rise up and discover the hope that awaits, even in the most unexpected places!
In this episode of the Resilient Hope Summer Series, Christine Caine digs into divine promises and practical strategies that can empower you to get back up, run your race, and fulfill your God-given purpose.
What you'll learn:
- How to find hope amidst disappointment and challenges
- Practical steps to overcome feelings of defeat
- The transformative power of faith in reshaping our circumstances
This is part of our Resilient Hope Summer series - real talk and encouragement to keep your faith strong in every season.
Don't forget to grab your free Episode Reflection Guide here!
P.S. We made a bonus resource for you this summer. Download your free 'Hope Kit' now!
+ + + + +
Christine Caine is a speaker, activist, and best-selling author. She and her husband, Nick, founded the anti-human trafficking organization The A21 Campaign. They also founded Propel Women, an initiative that is dedicated to coming alongside women all over the globe to activate their God-given purpose. Each week she brings you a Gospel-centered message filled with Biblical truths that will equip and empower you to step into the life God has for you.
The fruit of the Spirit is... KINDNESS. Join Ruth for this episode about what kindness means (it's not just being nice!) and how we can reflect the kindness of God to others.
All summer long, join us in meditating on what it means to abide and consider the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. These short episodes, full of Scripture, are designed to be an opportunity to pause and realign your heart with truth.
Scripture referenced:
Proverbs 31:10, 26,
Proverbs 21:21
Ephesians 4:31-32
Luke 6:35-36
Matthew 7:12
Resources mentioned:
GraceLaced Fruit of the Spirit Collection (gracelaced.com/FOTS) - use code POD15 to take 15% off items in the collection
In this episode, host Christine Caine brings together compelling insights on relationships from pastor and author Jada Edwards, clinical psychologist Dr. Rhiannon DuBois, and a listener-driven Q&A on community, marriage, and friendship. From heartbreak and healing to boundaries and biblical love, this episode dives into what it means to build meaningful connections that reflect God's heart. Whether you're navigating fractured friendships, marriage, divorce, the ache of loneliness, or the tension in friendships, this episode will give you wisdom and hope to move forward in love.
SHOW NOTES:
What Love Really Means
Jada Edwards shares how her own marriage tension led her to a revelation-every sin is a love issue, and healing starts when we let God define love.
Divine Love vs. Damaged Definitions
Jada unpacks how childhood wounds and unhealthy models of affection distort our view of love-and how rebuilding starts with receiving love from God first.
Healing After Heartbreak
Dr. Rhiannon DuBois shares her story of being blindsided by divorce and how God carried her through deep grief while still leading others.
Emotionally and Spiritually Coping with Loss
Rhiannon outlines healthy ways to grieve, process pain, and practically move forward using both emotional and problem-focused coping.
The Truth About Friendships and Boundaries
Christine reflects on cultivating long-term friendships, healthy expectations, and the courage it takes to love without guarantees.
Follow Jada Edwards @Jada_Edwards and find her book at JadaEdwards.org/Shop
Follow Dr. Rhiannon DuBois @rhi_bella and find her practice @heartbreaksandretakes
Check out the Resilient Hope Summer Series on the Equip & Empower Podcast
Follow Christine, @ChristineCaine
Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode, and don't forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.
You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can't wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
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Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.
We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities.
No matter where a woman has influence - in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry - Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.
Hello, my friend. I hope you're having a good day.
Family pain has been around since, quite literally, the first family. The earliest chapters of Genesis introduce us to a crooked family tree. If you know family wounds, I think you'll find some hope in Joseph's story.
You know that old, familiar ice-breaker question, "If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?" Well, during today's episode of Back Porch Theology - which was taped live at our 2025 Kerygma Summit a few weeks ago. And yes, we happen to be hugely biased, but y'all this bevy of Bible scholars could aptly be described as Wonder Women. Dr. Lynn Cohick is the Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Director of Houston Theological Seminary. Dr. Eva Bleeker is assistant professor of Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care at Denver Seminary. Dr. Irini Fambro, she and her family reside in Dallas where she serves as president of The King's University. Dr. Dorian Coover-Cox is a beloved Old Testament professor at Dallas Theological Seminary and has tutored hundreds of students in Hebrew over the years. And rounding out this dream team is Dr. Nicole Massey Martin. She's currently the COO for Christianity Today, and served as a senior VP at The American Bible Society. Today's episode is going to be FIRE, y'all ~ so please grab a great big iced mocha. Welcome to the porch - we're so glad you've chosen to hang out with us today!
What do you do when God's plans look different than what you had hoped for?
In this week's episode Tauren is talking to Elevation Worship's Chris Brown. They discuss their love for Jesus and why it's important to be involved in His Church. Get ready to receive wisdom from the experiences that Chris has walked through as a local church builder and be reminded of the importance of sowing seeds in your own life.
Navigating being a part of the Church in a commercialized world (9:58)
What it means to be planted (10:38)
The importance of the local Church (15:20)
How to surrender what you thought you wanted for what God wants for you (21:56)
The importance of consistency (29:52)
What it means to be a steward of seeds, not trees (30:58)
Follow Tauren Wells on Instagram @TaurenWells
What do you do when God's plans look different than what you had hoped for?
In this week's episode Tauren is talking to Elevation Worship's Chris Brown. They discuss their love for Jesus and why it's important to be involved in His Church. Get ready to receive wisdom from the experiences that Chris has walked through as a local church builder and be reminded of the importance of sowing seeds in your own life.
Navigating being a part of the Church in a commercialized world (9:58)
What it means to be planted (10:38)
The importance of the local Church (15:20)
How to surrender what you thought you wanted for what God wants for you (21:56)
The importance of consistency (29:52)
What it means to be a steward of seeds, not trees (30:58)
Follow Tauren Wells on Instagram @TaurenWells
Do It Anyway is available wherever you buy books.
In this episode, host Christine Caine brings together compelling insights on relationships from pastor and author Jada Edwards, clinical psychologist Dr. Rhiannon DuBois, and a listener-driven Q&A on community, marriage, and friendship. From heartbreak and healing to boundaries and biblical love, this episode dives into what it means to build meaningful connections that reflect God's heart. Whether you're navigating fractured friendships, marriage, divorce, the ache of loneliness, or the tension in friendships, this episode will give you wisdom and hope to move forward in love.
SHOW NOTES:
What Love Really Means
Jada Edwards shares how her own marriage tension led her to a revelation-every sin is a love issue, and healing starts when we let God define love.
Divine Love vs. Damaged Definitions
Jada unpacks how childhood wounds and unhealthy models of affection distort our view of love-and how rebuilding starts with receiving love from God first.
Healing After Heartbreak
Dr. Rhiannon DuBois shares her story of being blindsided by divorce and how God carried her through deep grief while still leading others.
Emotionally and Spiritually Coping with Loss
Rhiannon outlines healthy ways to grieve, process pain, and practically move forward using both emotional and problem-focused coping.
The Truth About Friendships and Boundaries
Christine reflects on cultivating long-term friendships, healthy expectations, and the courage it takes to love without guarantees.
Follow Jada Edwards @Jada_Edwards and find her book at JadaEdwards.org/Shop
Follow Dr. Rhiannon DuBois @rhi_bella and find her practice @heartbreaksandretakes
Check out the Resilient Hope Summer Series on the Equip & Empower Podcast
Follow Christine, @ChristineCaine
Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode, and don't forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.
You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can't wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
-
Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.
We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities.
No matter where a woman has influence - in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry - Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.
You know that old, familiar ice-breaker question, "If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?" Well, during today's episode of Back Porch Theology - which was taped live at our 2025 Kerygma Summit a few weeks ago. And yes, we happen to be hugely biased, but y'all this bevy of Bible scholars could aptly be described as Wonder Women. Dr. Lynn Cohick is the Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Director of Houston Theological Seminary. Dr. Eva Bleeker is assistant professor of Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care at Denver Seminary. Dr. Irini Fambro, she and her family reside in Dallas where she serves as president of The King's University. Dr. Dorian Coover-Cox is a beloved Old Testament professor at Dallas Theological Seminary and has tutored hundreds of students in Hebrew over the years. And rounding out this dream team is Dr. Nicole Massey Martin. She's currently the COO for Christianity Today, and served as a senior VP at The American Bible Society. Today's episode is going to be FIRE, y'all ~ so please grab a great big iced mocha. Welcome to the porch - we're so glad you've chosen to hang out with us today!
Is your faith strong enough to stand in a spiritual battle?
Candace, JP, and Lev explore what it truly means to put on the armor of God. From Roman shields to real-life spiritual warfare at 3 a.m., this episode is packed with wisdom, vulnerability, and encouragement.
JP walks through the characteristics of a Spirit-filled life and reveals why Satan's primary goal is to weaken your faith. Candace opens up about a season of exhaustion and spiritual retreat-and how God lovingly drew her back.
Lev shares what adult children really want from their parents, especially in response to a listener question from Melissa about parenting her 18-year-old son.
Today's episode is another example of the ancient and ever Story of the Bible meeting us in our current, modern, right now stories and lives. Our central pearl today is found in James 1:1-2. Some scholars believe that the book of the James was the FIRST book of the New Testament ever penned under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. If this is the case, the first author of the New Testament writings was none other than Jesus' half-brother James.
If the first two verses of the New Testament are indeed James 1:1-2, it is interesting that both "joy" and "trial" are located in these verses. We have known both in this life. The Jewish people have a long history and rich culture of embracing celebration and lament together. The two do not need to be separated because life does not separate them. We can know moments of great celebration and joy and still feel the sting of lament and trial during it.
While I was studying in Israel I heard the phrase, "Laughter is our protest". We protest hopelessness and gloom with laughter anchored in hopefulness. In other words, we learn to not only experience joy, but a deeper defiant joy.
I end today's episode with a recent and very personal story in my own life about practicing defiant joy with my community. We had the chance for lament and celebration to live side by side with us and we shared one special night where laughter was our protest.
In this episode of The High Note, Tauren Wells sits down with Natalie Grant for a heartfelt conversation about parenting through life's transitions, rediscovering purpose, and the power of obedience. They explore the role of the local church in shaping families, the importance of reverence in worship, and the unique challenges and contributions of women in ministry. Natalie opens up about her journey of founding Hope for Justice, embracing her identity in Christ, and how saying 'yes' to God's call can lead to unexpected and transformative impact. This episode is a powerful reminder of the strength found in community, the beauty of partnership, and the blessings that follow faithful obedience.
In today's episode, we are going to find gospel gorgeous encouragement in a strange biblical place. A passage of Scripture that can feel rather benign will light up powerfully when we see it anchored in its historical, cultural context. Matthew 10:1-4 is our biblical pearl and it is GOOD news for you and me. This passage courages me forward. This passage causes me to take heart.
Today we will look at a brief historical and cultural sketch of some of the 12 disciples listed in Matthew 10. Practicing the way of Jesus is partnering with Jesus. These are the 12 principle men Jesus chose to follow Him, practice His way and partner with Him. Partner with Him in what? The tikkun olam - the repair of the world.
When Jesus chose the 12, surely He chose the strongest, fastest, smartest, etc. Today we will see that the Kingdom of God operates on a different system of "choosing" compared to the way of the world and empire. Jesus chose sons of thunder, tax collectors and zealots to walk with Him, learn His way and partner with Him in repairing the world.
If He chose them, He'll choose you and me. I'm praying for us all as we seek to practice the way of Jesus in the earth so that we too can partner with Him in repairing the world.
What do you do when your faith falls apart?
In this episode of The Candace Cameron Bure Podcast, Candace, Lev, and guest co-host Jonathan Pokluda have one of the most raw and redemptive conversations of the season. From parenting regrets and personal doubt to powerful testimonies of transformation, this episode centers around a single spiritual question: What happens when faith gets deconstructed?
Jonathan shares how he rebuilt his entire belief system from scratch after years of addiction, confusion, and spiritual wandering. Lev opens up about his own battles with intellectual doubt in college-and how even Bible study can become a battleground for belief. Together, the trio explores why deconstruction isn't the end of the story-it's the beginning of rebuilding on truth.
They also respond to a deeply emotional listener question from Judith, whose friend stopped praying after losing her daughter. Jonathan offers powerful encouragement for anyone wrestling with grief and disappointment with God.
If you've ever struggled with faith, this conversation will give you both hope and practical steps to move forward.
Is it possible that prayer could literally heal your mind and body?
In this moving episode of The Candace Cameron Bure Podcast, Candace, Jonathan Pokluda, and Lev Bure explore the transformative power of prayer-sharing deeply personal stories, surprising science, and practical tips for building a richer spiritual life. From JP's call into ministry to Lev's powerful role in his parents' reconciliation, this conversation is full of emotional depth and faith-building encouragement.
Plus, they dive into the most overlooked part of prayer: listening. Discover how 15 quiet minutes in a chair could completely reshape your relationship with God. The team also answers a listener question from Amy-"What is the best way to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus when temptations are all around?"
Whether you've felt distant from God or just want to deepen your spiritual walk, this episode will remind you: we were made to pray.
Today is our 12th and final biblical pearl for Season 1 of our Pearls Podcast. How in the world do we finish this season? What is the biblical pearl to leave you with for now? How do we end such a rich and generous season in the Word of God together? How do we get up from the biblical table and live forward into our lives today?
I spent quite a bit of time in prayer thinking through what the 12th pearl would be. What is ONE more thing in the "better than" Story of the Bible that I would want impart to you, bless you and wash you with today?
In today's final episode, our biblical pearl is located in John 14: 1-6. These are words in red - the words of Jesus given to his disciples at the Last Supper right before crucifixion and resurrection. It's about to go down and he knows it. What will some of his final words be at this final meal before the Garden of Gethsemane, arrest, trial, crucifixion and resurrection?
Today we are going to learn about the beit av - the house of the father. THIS is some of the encouragement Jesus chose to give his disciples in this final meal and final hours. The imagery and metaphor, the deep meaning that these words would have held for Jesus and his disciples 2,000 years ago speaks a WORD to us in our own lives today. The promise that Jesus speaks of in these verses are a right now promise for you and me today.
No matter what's going on in your life, now matter how high or low, how deep into sadness, ruin and loss - we are headed to the Father's House.
As we end Season 1 of Pearls, I pray these words get worked into your soul like yeast into dough. Shalom to you and your families.