Michael Easley inContext

Latest Episodes:

Why You Can Trust the Bible with Daniel Buttafuoco May 26, 2026

Show notes

What 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

The Progressive Miseducation of America with Dr. Corey Miller May 19, 2026

Show notes

What 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.
Chapters
05:35 – Why education in America has radically changed
07:13 – Corey Miller’s background and journey out of Mormonism
10:00 – The rise of progressive ideology in universities
13:35 – Understanding DEI, critical theory, and “wokeness”
19:08 – How ideology reshaped institutions and culture
25:05 – Why universities influence everything downstream
31:29 – The cultural consequences seen across America
35:04 – Is America headed toward anarchy?
36:27 – How Christians should respond to the crisis
42:17 – Preparing students for college worldview battles
43:20 – Are there any trustworthy universities left?
50:57 – Why Christians must reclaim the life of the mind
Key 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 conviction
Links Mentioned
The Progressive Miseducation of America by Dr. Corey Miller
Ratio Christi website

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Faith, Fear & Being Stuck in Space with Barry ‘Butch’ Wilmore May 12, 2026

Show notes

What 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

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Going Beyond Reading Your Bible with Dr. Benjamin Gladd May 05, 2026

Show notes

Most 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.

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Helping Kids Love the Bible Through Story & Art with Liz and Jack Hagler Apr 28, 2026

Show notes

In 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/

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For more information on Dr. Michael Easley and Ask Dr. E

Visit: https://www.michaelincontext.com

Why So Many Men Feel Alone (And How to Fix It) with Mark Warren Apr 21, 2026

Show notes

Why 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.

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Why the Old Testament Prophets Still Matter Today with Dr. Wendy Widder Apr 14, 2026

Show notes

In 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.

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The Cultural Lies Trapping the Next Generation with Mark Hopson Apr 07, 2026

Show notes

In 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.

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The Story of The Trinity with Dr. Bryan Litfin Mar 31, 2026

Show notes

Was 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

The Miracle of The Kurds with Dr. Stephen Mansfield Mar 24, 2026

Show notes

What’s really happening with the Kurds—and why does it matter right now?

In this episode of inContext, Michael Easley sits down with author and geopolitical expert Dr. Stephen Mansfield to unpack one of the most overlooked stories in the Middle East.

The Kurdish people are one of the largest ethnic groups in the world without their own nation. They’ve fought alongside Western powers, helped defeat ISIS, and built a rare model of stability in northern Iraq—yet they’ve repeatedly been abandoned in global politics.

This conversation explores the Kurds’ history, their role in current conflicts involving Iran, Iraq, and Syria, and why their future remains uncertain. If you’ve ever felt confused by Middle East headlines, this episode brings clarity to the people, the politics, and the deeper human story behind it all.

Chapters

00:00 Intro

02:00 Who Are the Kurds?

06:00 Why Most People Don’t Know Their Story

10:30 Kurdish Military Strength & Loyalty

14:45 A History of Betrayal

20:15 Why the Kurds Don’t Have a Nation

25:30 Iraq, Iran, and Regional Tensions

31:00 The Syrian Conflict & Aleppo

36:45 U.S. Involvement and Withdrawal

42:30 Ethnicity, Identity, and Division

47:30 Younger Generations & Cultural Shifts