Shows
Sidelines & HeadlinesTwo SEC Teams Ousted, Two Advance in CFPHosts Blake Giles and Jim Hardin offer congrats to the Georgia state champs. And can Central Macon rediscover glory under a new head coach. There is news in college football. What about the young viral sensation, Nolan McGill, who refused to sing “Rocky Top,” endearing himself to Georgia fans everywhere. Will Muschamp, once the “Coach in Waiting” at Texas, is heading back to Austin to join the staff as the defensive coordinator. Bill Belichek hires Bobby Petrino. Alabama and Ole Miss won in the first round. Texas A&M and Oklahoma lost. The quarters will feature Ohio State vs. Miami in...
2025-12-2452 min
In the Shadow of the CrossChristmas and the CrossWe love sweet baby Jesus! But do we like the man that baby becomes? Does the Gospel begin in the manager? Or are we perhaps starting the message at the wrong place? In this episode Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss where the Gospel begins and the importance of the incarnation in relation to that starting point.
2025-12-231h 00
Sidelines & HeadlinesThe Dogs Are SEC Champs Again!Hosts Jim Hardin and Blake Giles preview the Georgia High School Association state finals. Then they celebrate—at least Blake does—Georgia’s decisive victory over Alabama in the SEC Championship. Then they break down the CFP selections. The 12-team playoff is doomed to be controversial as long as it is attached to a traditional format that left no room for a playoff. Notre Dame belongs in, they say, but maybe not Alabama. The Heisman finalists have been announced. The guys like Diego Pavia, but they believe the Indiana QB will win it. And finally, they look back at the se...
2025-12-1059 min
In the Shadow of the CrossAI and the Wrath of GodDid you know we're living in a season where we're witnessing the wrath of God? But before you grab that megaphone and head to the nearest street corner to start screaming at people about God's burning anger you may want to first learn what that means. For the vast majority of Christians the wrath of God doesn't mean what they think it means. God is love and he is light, and in him there is no darkness at all. Jim, Michael, and Loren launch season 4 with a fascinating discussion on the wrath of God and how AI is humanity's...
2025-12-0555 min
Sidelines & HeadlinesThe Squirrel Stew Episode Hosts Blake Giles, retired sports journalist, and Jim Hardin, former Auburn walkon (who never played) review the results from rivalry weekend. Blake describes how Georgia broke Florida State’s football program, and it goes beyond the 63-3 beatdown in the Orange Bowl. And then they preview the conference championships, particularly Georgia and Alabama. Who is on the bubble of the CFP, and who is in? Blake introduces his stress-free seconds calculator as a gauge. Finally, Lane Kiffen did what everyone assumed he would do, take the LSU job, and then the floodgates opened, as colleges filled vacancies. They had to...
2025-12-031h 15Sidelines & HeadlinesGeorgia Peaking at Just the Right TimeHosts Blake Giles, a veteran of four decades of sports journalism, and Jim Hardin, a devoted fan, evaluate Georgia’s convincing win over Texas. The pre-game hype for Texas was greater than the on-field version. Then, how many SEC teams will get into the College Football Playoff? And just how good No. 3 Texas A&M. It may have the weakest schedule in the league. What is the future for conference championship games? Will the Atlanta Falcons ever have a functional from office? High school playoffs reach the second round.
2025-11-2058 min
In the Shadow of the CrossDiscipleshipJesus said to go into all the world and make disciples. But what does that mean? What does discipleship look like? Is discipleship a Bible study? A class one attends? An academic curriculum? It seems there are as many ideas about how to disciple believers as there are Christian denominations. Jim, Michael, and Loren take a look at this important topic.
2025-11-181h 02
Sidelines & HeadlinesTexas Comes to Athens for the First Time, but It’s not the First Trip for the ManningsGeorgia hosts Texas in a showdown that has been on everyone’s calendar for two years. Hosts Blake Giles and Jim Hardin review the history between the two schools. Even though that game may suck the air out of Athens, there is more going on in college football. The two review last week’s games. Georgia played a complete game at Mississippi State. Auburn discovered an offense, but its defense collapsed in an overtime loss at Vanderbilt. Indiana toe-tapped past Penn State. Meanwhile, high school football playoffs start this week in Georgia.
2025-11-1259 min
Sidelines & HeadlinesGeorgia Escapes Again, but not Auburn Coach Hugh FreezeHosts Jim Hardin and Blake Giles review the firing of Hugh Freeze at Auburn and wonder how long Georgia can keep escaping. And who is in the playoffs, and who is not. And an abbreviated look at the playoffs is interrupted by a technical difficulty that cuts off the podcast abruptly. No worry. Everybody is fine, and we will be back next week.
2025-11-0541 minSidelines & HeadlinesThe Coaching Carousel Is Just Starting To SpinHosts Blake Giles and Jim Hardin discuss the many vacancies in college coaching created by a flood of dismissals. The media focuses on other head coaches. But 14 of the current top 25 teams have head coaches who previously had been only assistant coaches. The high school season reaches its regular-season zenith as teams jockey for playoff position. And its Georgia-Florida week. Blake remembers the 1993 game, when weather socked in the rest of the newspaper staff.
2025-10-311h 04
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Bible Interprets Its Self?!?Isn't it interesting that Matthew, Mark, and Luke are strikingly similar? And that 2nd Peter and Jude are also so similar? What if the Bible interprets itself? What if certain writers actually pulled from other writes when they wrote their texts? Take a seat in the classroom and join Michael, Jim, and Loren in this fascinating conversation!
2025-10-3057 min
Enneagram and MarriageSpooky Season Special: Stranger Things w/Gen Alpha & Z Lucas Wilson & Jack Hardin (Melody Hardin and Abigail Perry)Get ready for a 1980s blast from the past twist on The Enneagram and Marriage Podcast this spooky season! In this family-friendly special episode, Christa welcomes two very special guests making their podcast debut: her nephew Lucas Wilson and son Jack Hardin, representing Gen Alpha, along with Gen Z E+M Certified Coaches Melody Hardin, 9 and Gen X Abigail Perry, 3. Together, they dive into typing beloved Stranger Things characters, predictors for the next season, and fave characters including Lucas Sinclair, Dustin Henderson, Joyce Byers, Jim Hopper, and more, just in time for the final season. This fun, intergenerational conversation...
2025-10-2935 min
Sidelines & HeadlinesFront-line Report from High School ReportersHosts Jim Hardin and Blake Giles catch up with two reporters who specialize in high school sports: Sara Tidwell of the Athens Banner-Herald and Stuart Steele of the Oconee Enterprise. As the regular season winds down, they peek ahead to the playoffs. Then they all chime in on Georgia’s win over Ole Miss. On the college scene, Jim and Blake review the latest firing, Billy Napier at Florida. Is Hugh Freeze next? How big could the Georgia-Georgia Tech game be? Stuart picks his player of the year, Keyon Standifer of Athens Academy. Sara likes the “dynamic duo” at Prince...
2025-10-241h 14Sidelines & HeadlinesTouchdown or Fumble? Depends on Who You AskHosts Blake Giles and Jim Hardin discuss the controversial call of a fumble by Auburn at the Georgia goal line. Did Kirby Smart call a timeout? Did it matter? What has happened to Auburn football, once a conference power? Is Hugh Freeze in trouble? What is the difference between first-half Georgia and second-half Georgia? Lane Kiffen likes to gig his opponents, but in a gentler fashion than Steve Spurrier. It’s a big weekend in the SEC with eight conference games, most of them close. On the high school front, Oglethorpe County beats Rabun County for the first time in...
2025-10-1745 min
In the Shadow of the CrossDoes the Church Need a Revival?Many have said the answer to all of our problems in the West is revival in the church. Some people will watch a big event filled with emotional fervor and exclaim that the church is in revival. Is revival what the church needs? Are we in a revival? What is the difference between a revival and a movement? Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss revival and movements, particularly the Jesus People Movement.
2025-10-161h 04
Sidelines & HeadlinesThe Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry RenewsHosts Jim Hardin, an Auburn man, and Blake Giles, a Georgia Bulldog, preview the annual rivalry game. Jim has missed only three Auburn games since 1984. They recollect the history of the series: Pat Dye, Vince Dooley, Herschel Walker, Bo Jackson, the prayer at O’Hare, Joel Eaves, Buck Belue, orange jerseys, black jerseys, Pat Sullivan, Terry Beasley, Andy Johnson, Erk Russell, Joel Eaves, Columbus, Ga., Fran Tarkenton, Bill Herron, Shug Jordan, water hoses, missing quarterback, Lewis Grizzard, the famous photo from the four-overtime game, Mike Bobo, Kim Braswell, Robert Edwards, Tre Battle, the lack of a pass rush at Ge...
2025-10-0857 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Lie of the Theology of GloryDo good deeds achieve God's favor, leading to a successful life? Are wealth, fame, and power evidence that one is following Jesus? Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss the theology of glory that has polluted much of Christianity. This leads to a discussion on twisted leadership in the church, what causes it, what makes us susceptible to it, and what's the fruit of it?
2025-10-021h 07Sidelines & HeadlinesRuss Tanner Loves Barbecue and College FootballHosts Jim Hardin and Blake Giles visit with former Georgia football player Russ Tanner. They are all amazed that Ty Cummings of West Laurens rushed for 615 yards, by himself. Johnson County, Russ’s alma mater, is undefeated. Georgia has an Alabama problem. How do you explain it? It used to be a Florida problem. NIL and transfer portal has evened the playing field in college football. Roster management is a critical mystery. Russ says you need eight or nine strong players to field a stable offensive line. Has the game been hurt by players getting paid? Russ said the “on-t...
2025-10-0150 min
Sidelines & HeadlinesDating News, Kirby's 10 Years and Alabama Comes to AthensHosts Blake Giles and Jim Hardin preview a big weekend in college football, including Alabama at Georgia, Oregon at Penn State, LSU at Ole Miss, Georgia Tech at Wake Forest, and Notre Dame at Arkansas. Blake quizzes Jim on the top 10 Heisman candidates, as listed on ESPN.com. How is it that David Weeks did not mention that his son Whit, an LSU linebacker, is dating Landry Kiffen, daughter of Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffen? And LSU plays at Ole Miss this week. Landry says she’s pulling for her dad’s team. How did Oklahoma get away with...
2025-09-241h 03
Sidelines & HeadlinesDavid Weeks Triply Blessed with LSU Connection Georgia outlasts Tennessee 44-41 in an instant classic, and hosts Jim Hardin and Blake Giles discuss that, plus Georgia Tech’s dramatic win over Clemson. Also food for thought: Auburn faces a stern test at Oklahoma, is Arch Manning just overrated, and Vanderbilt continues to impress. In the SEC, which fan bases are glad, which are sad, and which are mad? Blake caught up with David Weeks, a center for Georgia under Ray Goff, and now the father of not one, not two, but three sons playing linebacker at LSU. He loves Brian “BK” Kelly. But he is still waitin...
2025-09-1759 min
Sidelines & HeadlinesGeorgia Faces a Test; Florida Faces an UltimatumHosts Jim Hardin and Blake Giles review the previous week’s high school football games, and preview upcoming action. The Falcons broke their fans’ hearts in the season opener with a narrow loss to Tampa Bay. Athens Academy beats John Milledge Academy and looks set up for a strong finish. Former Georgia letterman J.T. Wall is coaching John Milledge and has a son garnering college offers. Big game this week: North Oconee vs. Jefferson. Prince Avenue Christian up against bad luck with the power-rating system in Georgia. As for the college scene, Georgia was lackluster in a win over...
2025-09-1051 minSidelines & HeadlinesWhat is happening at Alabama?Blake Giles and Jim Hardin talk about the first week of college football: Florida State upsets Alabama; Arch Manning plays poorly at Ohio State; Georgia’s offense finds a breakaway receiver in Zechariah Branch, but answers no more questions; Auburn finds an offense, but does it have a defense; LSU gets a big win; Bill Belichick has a long way to go at North Carolina; on the high school front, Prince Avenue Christian loses, Jefferson routs Clarke Central which loses a key player, Oglethorpe County beats Washington-Wilkes for the first time since 1983 and Grayson takes on out of state op...
2025-09-051h 05
Sidelines & HeadlinesClarke Central Coach David Perno plus a College Football PreviewHosts Blake Giles and Jim Hardin review high school football results, including a trick play called by a fifth-grader to start a game. Clarke Central Football Coach David Perno looks back at his time as the Georgia baseball coach, including a memorable regional against Clemson when he was ejected after throwing a bucket of baseballs on the field. The ploy worked, rallying his team to a comeback win. After a tongue-lashing from AD Vince Dooley, Perno led Georgia past Georgia Tech the Super Regional to advance to the College World Series. Perno recalls the influence that Billy Henderson had...
2025-09-0556 min
In the Shadow of the CrossCesspoolsAfter a river floods its banks and then recedes, have you noticed what becomes of the pools of water left behind? Would you want to drink from those pools? Of course not! Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss how easy it is to cut ourselves off from the river and choose instead to drink from cesspools of dead religion and movements long passed.
2025-09-041h 04
Sidelines & HeadlinesHigh School Football Season Has Started, and Already There Are SurprisesBlake Giles and Jim Hardin interview Athens Academy head coach Josh Alexander, and Cedar Shoals Athletic Director Dreco Thomas. They talk about Apalachee’s emotional win in the season opener, Cedar Shoals’ new coach (Coach Sharpie they call) him, GHSA transfer rules and game-winning kicks. Cam Newton’s number will be retired…at the Georgia game. Josh Alexander talks about cooking steaks. Blake reports on a wet night at the Prince Avenue Christian opener, a comeback win.
2025-08-2054 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Blood of Abel vs the Blood of JesusTwo innocent victims. Both were brutally murdered. Two voices cry out. But one voice cries for something so drastically different from the other that it will strip naked principalities and powers and transform humanity. In this day, where many cry for justice, it's so important that we know the difference between the voice of Abel and the voice of Jesus. Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss why it's so important that our cry is the same as Jesus's.
2025-08-1356 minSidelines & HeadlinesJon Richt starts his first season as the head football coach at Prince Avenue Christian School.Jim Hardin and Blake Giles interview Jon Richt about his new role as the head football coach at Prince Avenue Christian. Also, C.J. Dockery talks about leaping catches. And Jim and Blake talk about the beginning of the high school football season.
2025-08-1338 min
In the Shadow of the CrossTrinitarianThere is currently a surge of believers referring to themselves as Trinitarians. Being that the vast majority of Christians believe in the Trinity, Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss this growing emphasis on the Trinity.
2025-07-2456 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Church FathersIt has become increasingly popular to post quotes from the Church Fathers on social media. But are those quotes an accurate depiction of what the church fathers believed? This week Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss the church fathers and their beliefs.
2025-07-091h 00
In the Shadow of the CrossSin and the Finished Works MovementAre Christians without sin? There are popular teachings that hold to this belief. Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss sin, discipleship, and what it means to be saved.
2025-06-191h 05
Exposed: Scandalous Files of the EliteCrime Wire Weekly 6/13/25 | U.S. Marshal’s Enact “RAM” to Hunt Travis Decker, Man Arrested After Tossing Raccoon In Bar (Preview)In this episode of CrimeWire Weekly, hosts Jim Chapman and Kelly Jennings discuss a series of trending crime stories, including the U.S. Marshal’s Enact specialized unit to Hunt Travis Decker, A Kentucky Man Arrested After Tossing Raccoon In Bar, A 24 Yr Old is Caught Enrolling In High School and much more!*This is a preview, links to listen to the full podcast by following "Crime Wire Weekly" are below.Topics 01:08 Louisiana Man Charged with Murder After Leaving Daughter in Hot Car 04:26 Texas DOJ Worker Arrested for Slipping Girlfriend Pl...
2025-06-1420 min
In the Shadow of the CrossQuestioning the BibleJim asked a daring (heretical?) question, "If you could compile your own canon of scripture, what would you include? What would you remove?" This sparked a discussion about historical church leaders who engaged in canon criticism (one protestant may surprise you), wrestling with the scriptures, and interpretation. Join Jim, Michael, and Loren in this audacious conversation.
2025-06-011h 04Unspeakable: A True Crime Podcast By Kelly JenningsCrime Wire Weekly 5/30/25 | Murderer Grant Hardin Escapes Arkansas Prison, Louisiana Woman Set’s Ex’s Boat on Fire, Kevin Costner LawsuitLink is below to follow "Crime Wire Weekly: It's Moving to it's own channel next weekIn this episode of CrimeWire Weekly, hosts Jim Chapman and Kelly Jennings discuss a series of trending crime stories, including a dangerous manhunt for an escaped Arkansas police chief, a shooting incident during a party in South Carolina, a lawsuit against Kevin Costner, a bizarre police shooting in Florida, a complex murder case in Ohio, a shocking attack by hitmen in Tijuana, an arson case in Louisiana, and a prison murder involving a rapist.#ArkansasPrisonEscape #I...
2025-05-3148 minExposed: Scandalous Files of the EliteCrime Wire Weekly 5/30/25 | Murderer Grant Hardin Escapes Arkansas Prison, Louisiana Woman Set’s Ex’s Boat on Fire, Kevin Costner LawsuitLink is below to follow "Crime Wire Weekly: It's Moving to it's own channel next weekIn this episode of CrimeWire Weekly, hosts Jim Chapman and Kelly Jennings discuss a series of trending crime stories, including a dangerous manhunt for an escaped Arkansas police chief, a shooting incident during a party in South Carolina, a lawsuit against Kevin Costner, a bizarre police shooting in Florida, a complex murder case in Ohio, a shocking attack by hitmen in Tijuana, an arson case in Louisiana, and a prison murder involving a rapist.#ArkansasPrisonEscape #I...
2025-05-3148 min
In the Shadow of the Cross"They're Just Wounded"It is extremely common in Christian circles that when someone thinks differently and sees things differently, the person will be dismissed as being wounded. This is especially true if the person's thoughts challenge the status quo. Why do some Christians mark these people as wounded? And if they are indeed wounded, does that immediately mean their thoughts aren't worth considering? Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss this, which leads to a fascinating conversation about the future of the church in the West.
2025-05-0852 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Dark Night of the SoulMichael, Jim, and Loren discuss the most difficult season followers of Jesus experience. That season of suffering when misery is your constant companion, and Father isn't doing the things you think he should be doing. That season when your beliefs are being unraveled, everything seems hopeless, and there is no deliverance in sight. This is the dark night of the soul.
2025-04-161h 01
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Origins of Theological ThinkingHow did the early church begin to think theologically? Do you know that parts of the epistles are hymns? What purpose did hymns serve in the Early Church? Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss the origins of theological thinking, how singing supported theology in the early church, and the pluses and minuses of modern worship music. Also, did Paul's theology ever change? Join us!
2025-03-1958 minEnneagram and MarriageBeyond Self-Pres, Social & Sexual: A Fresh Take on Instincts That Drives You Forward w/Joel Hubbard & Jim Zartman w/Joel Hubbard & Jim Zartman, Art of GrowthIn this captivating episode, we're joined by Jim Zartman (Type 8) and Joel Hubbard (Type 7), creators of the groundbreaking Hunters, Farmers, and Teamers framework and book. This innovative lens reveals our survival instincts as well as helps us adapt in them, speaking of how our core drives shape everything from our leadership styles to our marriages. Discover whether you're primarily a Hunter (similar to Sexual/SX instinct, focused on intensity and risk-taking), a Farmer (aligned with Self-Preservation/SP, oriented toward resources and sustainability), or a Teamer (comparable to Social/SO, driven by connection and collaboration), and how to work with...
2025-03-171h 05
In the Shadow of the CrossA Look at the Bible"Just read your Bible!" The person exclaims during a discussion. But their assumption is the lens through which they've been taught to read the Bible is the way someone just picking up the Bible will read it. When someone picks up the Bible, they engage with ancient writings originally written in another language, in another culture, in another land long ago. This is not a book that someone can simply pick up and receive "Holy Ghost downloads" and understand what the writers are saying. Michael, Jim, and Loren take a look at this rich and challenging book.
2024-12-1657 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe TrinityThe doctrine of the Trinity is a beautiful way of describing the unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in one Godhead. Sadly, some sects of Christianity have divided God into three separate persons, each with a distinct personality, in order to justify and embrace Janus-faced violent God images and teachings that contradict the Father as revealed in the Son. Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss how our view of the Trinity impacts how we relate to others.
2024-11-0458 min
In the Shadow of the CrossAnti-IntellectualismThere are large portions of Christianity that cling to the importance of the Bible and elevate the teaching of scripture while at the same denouncing any in-depth study of it. They're locked into their hermeneutics and interpretation of the Bible regardless of what evidence points to the contrary. Intellectuals who learn the original languages and study the culture, history, and sciences to understand the scriptures better are viewed with contempt if their research leads them to conclusions that differ from what has always been taught in those circles. Michael, Loren, and Jim (who joined late due to connectivity issues...
2024-10-2859 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Journeys of Two CharismaticsAnti-intellectualism is dominating much of Christianity. Sadly, it is widespread in charismatic/Pentecostal circles. But that's not to say that these believers don't have something valuable to contribute to the body of Christ. As charismatics (but without the crazy, as Dr. Stephen Crosby puts it), Jim and Loren share their journeys from anti-intellectualism to embracing the scholarly work of teachers in the body of Christ.
2024-10-161h 07
In the Shadow of the CrossHistory & the BibleWhat were you taught about history as it relates to the Bible? Many believers have misconceptions about the history surrounding the Bible times and the church. Jim wasn't able to join in on this one so Michael and Loren dared to continue in his absence and discussed the Bible through a historical lens.
2024-09-2058 min
In the Shadow of the CrossLove Your EnemiesJesus taught us to love our enemies. This is not some side teaching, but the heartbeat of what it means to follow Jesus. Here in the US, we tend to think of loving our enemies as loving that person who rubs me the wrong way. But that's only scratching the surface. It also means loving my political opponents, the enemies of my country, and the people groups I despise. In this episode, Michael, Jim, and Loren get personal and share their challenges living this.
2024-08-241h 00
In the Shadow of the CrossChristian TerminologyIn this episode, which was recorded on 4/20 (an important piece of information), Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss commonly used Christian terms that are misdefined and misapplied.
2024-06-061h 00
In the Shadow of the CrossRomans 14In Romans 14 Paul discusses the weak eating vegetables while the strong eat meat. This passage is often interpreted as saying, "Don't do things in front of others that will cause them to stumble." Jim, Michael, and Loren take a look at this passage and as we'll see, we've been looking at this through a 21st-century lens.
2024-05-111h 13
In the Shadow of the Cross1 Corinthians 5: The Sinner in church1 Corinthians 5, the passage dealing with kicking a man out of church because of incest, is a difficult passage. Many churches use this passage as justification to kick people out involved in certain sins. Is that what Paul is instructing the Corinthians to do? On the surface, it appears that's the case. But as Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss, Paul may not be saying what we thought he was saying.
2024-04-261h 09
In the Shadow of the CrossThe SatanMichael, Jim, and Loren discuss who or what Satan is. Where did he come from and how does Satan fit into Christian beliefs?
2024-03-211h 07
In the Shadow of the CrossA Trip Through the Worm FactoryMichael, Jim, and Loren don't just open a can of worms, they take a tour through an entire worm factory as they wrestle with some of life's tough questions about our Heavenly Father, evil, and more.
2024-02-291h 06
In the Shadow of the CrossEVIL is LIVE Spelled BackwardsMichael, Jim, and Loren continue their discussion wrestling with the question, "If God is good then why do bad things happen?"
2024-02-161h 02
2024-01-191h 00
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Humanity & Divinity of Jesus Part 2Michael, Jim, and Loren continue their discussion on Jesus' humanity and divinity with a particular focus on what it means for the Word to become flesh.
2024-01-0458 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Humanity & Divinity of JesusChristians have a tendency to fall into one of two ditches. Some will place so much emphasis on his divinity they strip him of his humanity, Others will completely strip him of his divinity. Michael leads Jim and Loren in a discussion on the humanity and divinity of Jesus.
2023-12-1557 min
In the Shadow of the CrossDoes Theology Matter?Discussions on theology can often get heated and become divisive. Is theology bad? Should we stay away from discussing it? Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss whether theology matters.
2023-12-071h 11
In the Shadow of the CrossReturning to the Institutional ChurchMany followers of Jesus have left the institutional church because of vastly different views of the Father. Those that left find that their non-sacrificial view of the Father and a belief in a Heavenly Father in whom there is no dark side doesn’t mesh with the teachings and theologies in most institutional churches. Is it possible for those that have left to return as sources of healing? Jim is still on vacation, so Michael and Loren look at the issues surrounding returning to the institutional church.
2023-12-0700 min
In the Shadow of the CrossHellJim is on vacation, so Michael and Loren have a hell of a time discussing hell. This is a hot topic right now as many debate whether hell exists. Isn’t hell central to the Gospel? Is it possible to have a Gospel without hell? What about judgment? Join us for a conversation focused on these burning questions.
2023-11-0256 min
In the Shadow of the CrossJesus the JewAs we view Jesus through our Western lenses, we have a strong tendency to erase the fact that he was a Jew. But what does this mean? We have so Westernized, Americanized, and Christianized Jesus that many are unaware that he was none of these things. In this episode, Michael, Jim, and Loren examine what it means for Jesus to be a Jew living in the culture of second-temple Judaism.
2023-10-261h 03
In the Shadow of the CrossJesus the JewAs we view Jesus through our Western lenses, we have a strong tendency to erase the fact that he was a Jew. But what does this mean? We have so Westernized, Americanized, and Christianized Jesus that many are unaware that he was none of these things. In this episode, Michael, Jim, and Loren examine what it means for Jesus to be a Jew living in the culture of second-temple Judaism.
2023-10-261h 03
Woke & Pretty#Relationships #Movingintogether #PartnershipsMeera Hardin and Min Sukree discuss a friend's predicament. Her friend was grappling with the idea of moving in with her boyfriend, who is considering moving back into his martial home with her.
The conversation continues as Min shares with Meera always being the breadwinner of her family diving into a broader societal question: are women often compelled to compromise their desires and dreams when they earn more money than their partners? It was a thought-provoking discussion that raised important questions about gender roles and financial dynamics in relationships.
Episode Highlights:
2023-09-2839 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe False View of Church HistoryIt’s not uncommon today to hear Christians cry heresy over something that was considered orthodox by the early church fathers. Or Christians will think they’ve stumbled upon something new not knowing that it was embraced by followers of Jesus centuries ago. The sad fact of the matter is many Christians have an extremely limited and even twisted view of church history. Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss the false view of church history to which many cling and why it’s important for believers to know church history.
2023-09-2859 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Move to Liturgical ChristianityIn recent years many Evangelical Christians have been leaving their congregations and joining more liturgical communities. Why has this been happening? Jim, Michael, and Loren share their thoughts on what is sparking these changes.
2023-09-1451 min
In the Shadow of the CrossWhy are Christians Leaving Christianity?Statistics show that Christians are leaving Christianity in large numbers. Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss the reasons why they think this is happening.
2023-08-311h 01
In the Shadow of the CrossViolence and JesusThe Prince of Peace. Love your enemies. Bless those who curse you. Turn the other cheek. The vast majority of Christians are quite familiar with these statements. Yet, how is it that we’re confused about Jesus’ stance on violence? This week Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss Jesus’ teachings on violence.
2023-08-2454 min
In the Shadow of the CrossWar and the ChristianJust war! Holy war! War for Independence! War to end oppression! Christians have all kinds of reasons for going to war and engaging in violence. But what did Jesus teach about it? What did the early church believe about engaging in war? Buckle your seatbelts as Jim, Michael, and Loren engage in a controversial conversation for the purpose of finding the Jesus way.
2023-08-1756 min
In the Shadow of the CrossMyths & ParablesIs the creation narrative in Genesis literal or symbolic? Could it be that there are larger issues at play that we’re missing as we engage in these kinds of debates? What about the parables? Why did Jesus teach that way? What’s the point of a parable? This week Michael, Jim, and Loren dive into these waters as they look at Genesis and the parables of Jesus.
2023-08-1055 min
In the Shadow of the CrossCommunityThere is much discussion these days about church. How should the church meet? Where should the church meet? What should happen when the church meets? What are people looking for when they go to church? Jim, Michael, and Loren join the ongoing conversation sharing their thoughts on community.
2023-08-0254 min
In the Shadow of the CrossSpiritual Warfare and the MindJim, Michael, and Loren continue their discussion they began in the previous podcast on Spiritual Warfare. This time they look at the mind. The mind plays a significant role in the light or darkness present in individuals, communities, and even society. There is a reason Jesus came saying repent, which means “Change your thinking!”
2023-07-2654 min
Into the Magic ShopLara Love Hardin: The Many Lives of Mama LoveIn this podcast episode, Dr. Jim Doty interviews Lara Love Hardin, author of "The Many Lives of Mama Love," about her memoir and her journey from a troubled childhood to becoming the CEO of her own literary agency. They discuss topics such as addiction, identity theft, suicide, and redemption. Lara shares her experiences of self-compassion, public humiliation, and her time in jail. She also discusses the challenges faced by women in the criminal justice system and the nonprofit organization she co-founded to provide support for women in custody. The conversation also touches on Lara's journey into stand-up comedy and...
2023-07-2650 min
In the Shadow of the CrossSpiritual Warfare If you’ve been in Christian circles for a while you’ve probably heard the term “Spiritual Warfare.” What is it? Are there demons out to get us? Who or what is Satan? Some see a demon behind every bush while others completely deny the existence of evil. Jim, Michael, and Loren take a stab at this loaded topic.
2023-07-191h 02
In the Shadow of the CrossChurch UnityIn John 17 Jesus prayed that we would all be one just as He and His Father are One. But when we look at the church today, we see divisions all around us. Many look to getting back to the way things were in the early church. But was the early church truly the picture of unity that many have been led to believe? Is unity possible? What does it mean to be unified as followers of Christ? Jim, Michael, and Loren share their thoughts on church unity.
2023-07-1252 min
In the Shadow of the CrossChristian HopeAs followers of Christ, we speak about hope. But what is our hope? What produces hope? Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss hope and how it grows in us.
2023-06-281h 03
In the Shadow of the CrossRoadblocks to Spiritual GrowthAs followers of Christ, we know we’re supposed to grow. But sometimes growth stops, and we find ourselves no longer becoming more like Jesus. What causes our growth to stop? What are the things that halt maturity and keep us stuck in a rut? How can we overcome those obstacles, so we continue to grow? Join Jim, Michael, and Loren as they examine the hindrances to spiritual growth.
2023-06-211h 00
The Working Dog Depot PodcastEpisode #19 Jim O'Brien NCK9 LLCSend us a text Jim O’Brien, handled two police canines while he was a patrolman in the state of New Hampshire. Jim and his canine partners were a huge asset in central New Hampshire and were responsible for the capture and arrest of countless suspects and drug seizures. Jim developed both canines programs from the ground up and had much success with both programs.Jim was the lead instructor at two kennels in the state of NC where he was tasked with instructing Law Enforcement and Military personnel. Jim has instructed canine teams from arou...
2023-06-2051 min
In the Shadow of the CrossMinistry BurnoutBurnout! Sadly, it is something that is far too familiar to many Christians. Whether you’re a pastor, youth pastor, Sunday school teacher, worship leader, sound board operator, or volunteer, the feeling of being overwhelmed and exhausted is very real. This week Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss what causes burnout and what can we do to prevent it.
2023-06-1458 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Apostle PaulSo, you want to get back to the early church because they were one happy unified group of Christians. Think again! Romans clearly supports your stance against the LGBTQ+ community. Does it though? Paul and all the apostles stood in agreement and preached the same Gospel. Did they? This week Michael, Jim, and Loren take an in-depth look at the Apostle Paul and what you hear may surprise you.
2023-05-3157 min
In the Shadow of the CrossYour Kingdom ComeMichael, Jim, and Loren continue their discussion on the Lord's Prayer. What did Jesus mean by "Your Kingdom come..." What's this whole thing about forgiving us our trespasses AS WE forgive those who trespass against us? Of course we all know what Jesus meant by, "Lead us not into temptation" or do we?
2023-05-2455 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Lord's PrayerMost of us are quite familiar with the Lord's Prayer. We've recited it many times. But as Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss, there is so much more to this prayer that Jesus taught us to pray than what most of us have noticed on a surface-level reading. Through this prayer, Jesus once again points us to what separates our Father from all other gods.
2023-05-1755 min
In the Shadow of the CrossDefinitions to Christian TermsWhat does it mean to be saved? What is sin? How do we define God? What does it mean when we refer to Jesus as the Lamb of God? This one may have you changing your thinking about many commonly held beliefs as Michael, Jim, and Loren look at commonly used terms in Christianity and their actual definitions.
2023-05-101h 04
In the Shadow of the CrossPart 2 of Why the Gospel Doesn't Sound Like Good NewsJim, Michael, & Loren continue their conversation about why the gospel that is often presented doesn't sound like good news. What makes the Gospel good news?
2023-04-2652 min
In the Shadow of the CrossCommunion/The EucharistWhat is the point of Communion/The Eucharist? In many protestant, evangelical, Pentecostal, charismatic, and organic church circles it’s something only done on rare occasions, if at all. Some know Jesus said to do this but they struggle to find meaning in it. Others view it as a dead ritual, so it’s completely ignored. Others have shifted the emphasis away from communion/the Eucharist and placed the focus on worship music, spending the bulk of their time and energy on developing music that will "usher in the presence of God." But Jesus said to do this. Perhaps there’s far...
2023-04-1259 min
In the Shadow of the CrossEasterWhat is Easter all about? Michael, Jim, and Loren discuss how Easter is a pivotal moment that shatters our old paradigms and radically transforms our understanding of our Heavenly Father.
2023-04-0559 min
In the Shadow of the CrossLiberal Protestantism & the BibleMichael, Jim, and Loren discuss what liberal Protestantism could do better in their approach to the scriptures.
2023-03-2953 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Bible as Literature Michael, Jim, and Loren look at the way most Universities approach the Bible which is as literature through the historical-critical method. There are some good things about this approach as well as some pitfalls. The three of them also discuss the work of the Spirit in the younger generation.
2023-03-1557 min
In the Shadow of the CrossInspiration & the BibleIs every verse in the Bible inspired by God? If you've attended church at all, the answer to that question is a no-brainer. But it may not be as cut and dry as we always thought. Michael, Jim, and Loren continue their discussion about the Bible. This week they look at the Bible and inspiration.
2023-03-0853 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe BibleIt's been called the word of God, inerrant, infallible, inspired, and holy. But what exactly is the Bible? Is it all of these things? In this episode, Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss this wonderful and often greatly misunderstood book.
2023-03-0158 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe BibleIt's been called the word of God, inerrant, infallible, inspired, and holy. But what exactly is the Bible? Is it all of these things? In this episode, Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss this wonderful and often greatly misunderstood book.
2023-03-011h 02
In the Shadow of the CrossThe LawWhat's the deal with Christians' bent toward embracing the law? We know it's toxic and yet so many continue to implement it in their lives and communities. Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss this and also touch on the events transpiring at Asbury University.
2023-02-221h 03
In the Shadow of the CrossReading the BibleThe Bible is filled with ancient texts from a different culture and written in other languages. Many of us don't have years to invest in learning ancient Greek and Hebrew. Is there a way that "the average Jane/Joe" can approach the texts without advanced academic training? This is what Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss in this episode.
2023-02-0159 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Gospel Part IIJim, Michael, and Loren continue their look at the Gospel. How should the Gospel influence our approach to the scriptures? Did the writers have the exact same perspective on everything or were there different lenses through which the writers perceived things?
2023-01-251h 08
Biggus GeekusGrim Jim and the Weasels of the CoastMuch Ado about D&D w/special guest Grim Jim
Episode 122 Streamed Live Tuesday January 17, 2022
Shout out to Nerdcognito! Twitter: @Nerdcognito, https://www.nerdcognito.com/
Merch at Big Geek Emporium! https://biggeekemporium.com/big-geek-merch/
Main Topic: Much Ado About D&D w/Special Guest- Grim Jim
Grim details his background from picking up Fighting Fantasy adventure books at the tender age of 8 to running his own independent game company Postmortem Studios: https://post-mort.com/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/XnrTdF8scX0
Blog: https://talesofgrim.wordpress.com/
Grim’s latest is...
2023-01-182h 33
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Gospel Part IIs the Gospel good news? If so, what's the good news? Is the Gospel a message about escaping hell? Is it about saying a prayer and getting our ticket to heaven? What is the Gospel? This is what Jim, Michael, and Loren discuss this week.
2023-01-1859 min
In the Shadow of the CrossThe Gospel in MoviesJim, Michael, and Loren have a fun conversation about movies and TV shows that hit on strong Gospel themes.
2023-01-1356 min
In the Shadow of the CrossSinWhat is sin? For so many Christians sin boils down to behavior management. It's a list of dos and don'ts. That sure sounds an awful lot like the law, doesn't it? What did Jesus set us free from? Was the Father demanding payment for sin? Jim, Michael, and Loren examine these issues in this episode.
2023-01-0459 min
In the Shadow of the CrossDo We Need Clergy?Jim, Michael, and Loren examine leadership in the church. Do we need it? What does it look like? What is the difference between toxic leadership and healthy leadership?
2022-12-281h 02