Speak The Truth

Latest Episodes:

EP. 182 Counseling through God's Attributes–Immutable: Our Unchanging God W/Pastor Jesse Pirkle –Soul Care Pastor at Southern Hills Church– Sep 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike sits down with Jesse Pirkle from Southern Hills Church in Carrollton, Georgia, to discuss the concept of God's immutability. They explore how understanding God's unchanging nature can be a powerful tool in counseling, especially for individuals struggling with assurance, doubt, and trust issues. Jesse shares insights from his own ministry and counseling experiences, emphasizing the importance of scripture, singing, and practical assignments in helping counselees grasp this theological attribute. This episode offers a valuable resource for counselors looking to integrate biblical truths into their sessions.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement
00:49 Introducing the Miniseries on Counseling Through God's Attributes
01:58 Focusing on God's Immutability in Counseling
03:17 Scriptural Foundations of God's Immutability
04:11 Practical Applications in Counseling Sessions
10:35 Homework and Continued Learning
17:59 Engaging the Mind and Heart in Counseling
22:31 Addressing Assurance and Doubt in Counseling
25:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
Counseling through God's Attributes - ABC RES
Dark Clouds Deep Mercy - Mark Vroegop
Southern Hills Church - Jesse Pirkle

EP. 181 Speak the Truth's Most Downloaded Episode Ever: Broken Cisterns: Exposing Functional Idolatry Jer. 2:11-13 - Counseling through Bible Narratives W/Pastor Jesse Pirkle Sep 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode hosts, Mike and Shauna are joined by our special guest, Jesse Pirkle, Soul Care Pastor at SouthernHills Church to continue our mini-series, Counseling Through Bible Narratives Old Testament. Jesse Discusses how he uses his growth assignment of Jeremiah 2:11-13 to expose functional idolatry with counselees, both in-session, and out-of-session.

Episode Resource:
Counseling Through Bible Narratives - ABC RES

EP. 180 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024 - Unpacking Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) with a Biblical Lens W/Counseling Director Beth Claes Aug 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Mike dives into the topic of narcissistic personality disorder within their ongoing mini-series on diagnostic and statistical diagnoses. Joined by Beth Claes, they explore the distinction between DSM-defined narcissistic personality disorder and general cultural narcissism. The discussion emphasizes the importance of viewing such psychological labels through a biblical lens, considering self-absorption and selfishness as challenges addressed by the gospel. The episode encourages believers to carefully navigate relationships with those displaying narcissistic behaviors, seeking wise counsel and fostering health and reconciliation in a Christ-centered manner.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:20 Narcissistic Personality Disorder Overview

01:10 Cultural vs. Clinical Narcissism

03:43 Biblical Perspective on Narcissism

05:37 Relational Dynamics and Narcissism

12:01 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
Beth's Blog

EP. 179 Most Downloaded Episode of 2023 – Reclaim Your Marriage: Grace for Wives Who Have Been Hurt by Pornography W/Author's Jenny and Curtis Solomon Aug 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Shauna and Mike welcome Curtis and Jenny Solomon to discuss their new books, 'Redeem Your Marriage' and 'Reclaim Your Marriage.' The Solomons explore how their books address the impact of pornography on marriages, offering support for both the offending and hurt parties. They delve into the process of writing their books, sharing personal insights and struggles, and emphasize the importance of lament and genuine repentance. The discussion also covers practical advice for biblical counselors and pastors on how to use the books as resources for couples and even touches on parenting strategies to protect children from the influences of pornography.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:25 Book Review Series Launch

00:48 Meet the Guests: Curtis and Jenny Solomon

01:09 Curtis Solomon's Background and Roles

02:11 Introducing Jenny Solomon

03:13 Discussing the Books: Redeem Your Marriage and Reclaim Your Marriage

04:17 Challenges and Joys of Writing

09:01 The Importance of Lament in Healing

11:06 Addressing Misconceptions: Don't Blame Yourself for His Sin

15:58 The Role of the Spouse as an Ally

19:34 Creating a Safe Home Environment

20:15 Parenting Tips for Navigating Digital Dangers

22:55 Engaging in Open Conversations with Children

24:16 The Importance of Both Parents in Sex Education

25:48 Teaching Modesty and Privacy to Children

27:24 Healthy Cross-Gender Relationships

31:08 Using the Book in Counseling and Church Settings

38:12 Writing the Book: Inspirations and Challenges

40:16 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Episode Mentions
Curtis's Book for Husbands
Jenny's Book for Wives

Lament References:
Dark Clouds Deep Mercy
God's Healing for Life's Lessons

Counseling & Consulting
Solomon Soul Care

Training & Equipping
Southern Seminary - Biblical Counseling Concentration Degree

EP. 178 Most Downloaded Episode of 2022: Freedom in Forgiveness From Gen. 50:15-21 Counseling Through Bible Narratives Mini-Series W/Andrew Dealy From Austin Stone Counseling Aug 11, 2025

Show notes

In this engaging episode of 'Speak the Truth,' Michael and Shauna introduce and discuss the importance of biblical truths in counseling and discipleship. They welcome Andrew Dealy from Austin Stone Community Church, who elaborates on using scripture, specifically the story of Joseph from Genesis, to guide counseling practices. The conversation delves into themes of forgiveness, patience, and God's sovereignty in suffering, highlighting practical steps for counselors to apply in various scenarios. Andrew also shares insights about his roles in his church, training programs for counselors, and an upcoming podcast series focused on handling emotions biblically.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:32 Counseling Through Psalms and Collaboration
02:44 Introducing Andrew and His Roles
06:53 The Importance of Forgiveness in Counseling
07:14 Exploring Joseph's Story of Forgiveness
14:41 Practical Questions on Forgiveness
23:57 Joseph's Remarkable Response
24:47 Understanding Forgiveness
26:16 Counseling Through Suffering
28:06 The Role of Patience in Counseling
34:27 Defining People Beyond Their Wrongs
39:43 Practical Steps for Counselors

Episode Mentions
Counseling Through Bible Narratives

EP. 177 Most Downloaded Episode of 2021: The Gospel in Counseling Part 2 - Applying The Gospel In Counseling Situations Aug 04, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of 'Speak the Truth', Michael is joined with Peter Escue to discuss the pivotal role of the gospel in counseling, emphasizing its application in various life struggles. Covering part two of their 'Gospel in Counseling' series, they explore how biblical truths provide hope and guidance for individuals feeling the weight of the Christian life, uncertainty about salvation, bitterness, and more. They delve into issues like suffering, sin, lack of spiritual maturity, and the ever-present need for hope, guiding listeners on how to apply gospel principles skillfully and compassionately in counseling scenarios.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast

00:40 Recap of Gospel in Counseling Part One

02:09 Addressing the Challenges of Christian Life

04:19 Assurance of Salvation and Freedom in Christ

05:01 The Importance of Forgiveness

09:16 Spiritual Maturity and Sanctification

11:36 Understanding Suffering in the Christian Life

14:33 Understanding the Broken World and Personal Sin

15:11 The Importance of Applying Theology in Counseling

15:42 The Reality of Suffering and the Gospel

17:50 Hope in Christ Amidst Suffering

21:55 The Value of Individuals in God's Eyes

23:10 The Gospel's Call to Higher Goals and Changed Behavior

26:01 Summary and Encouragement for Counselors

Episode Mentions
The Gospel in Counseling Part 1

EP. 176 Most Downloaded Podcast of 2020: Heart of the Matter - A Counseling Tool That Helps Expose Deceptive Thoughts, Desires, and Habits Jul 28, 2025

Show notes

This episode of 'Speak the Truth' originally aired back in 2020 during the beginning of COVID and features an in-depth discussion on the methodology of biblical counseling. Hosts discuss the importance of examining desires, thoughts, emotions, and actions using a tool called 'The Heart of the Matter' series. Jeremy, joining via Bluetooth, explains this resource provided by the Association of Biblical Counselors, which helps counselees analyze their hearts through a biblical lens. Practical examples and guidelines are shared to aid counselors and discipleship leaders in guiding individuals toward a scriptural understanding of their responses and behaviors.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:53 Introducing the Topic: The Heart of the Matter Series

01:32 Nature vs. Nurture: A Biblical Perspective

02:36 The Heart's Role in Counseling

04:06 Using the Heart of the Matter Log

05:37 Counselor and Counselee Insights

07:25 Practical Applications and Examples

17:38 Understanding Desires and Idolatry

22:38 Habits and Their Impact on the Heart

25:04 Conclusion and Resources

Episode Mentions

Equip U Series - Heart of the Matter Resource (This resource is available to ABC Members - if you're not a member, become one)
A Theology of Christian Counseling - Jay Adams
You Are What You Love - James K. A. Smith

EP. 175 One Hundred Episodes Later: The Power of the Psalms in Counseling W/Pastor John Henderson from the 2020 Called to Counsel Conference Jul 21, 2025

Show notes

This episode of 'Speak the Truth' is recorded live from the 2020 Call to Counsel Conference. Hosts engage in an insightful discussion with John Henderson, focusing on the significance of the Psalms in biblical counseling. They explore how the Psalms provide language and comfort for various human struggles such as anxiety, depression, and anger. John highlights the importance of the personal ministry of the Word and its application in one-on-one counseling. The conversation also delves into practical tips for pastors and counselors on integrating scriptural truths into counseling sessions effectively, emphasizing the value of patience, transparency, and God-centered guidance. The episode underscores the richness of the Old Testament and encourages listeners to see the Bible as a practical tool for addressing life's deep-rooted issues.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:21 Conference Setting and Livestream

00:36 Panel Discussion Highlights

01:42 Introducing John Henderson

02:47 Pre-Conference and Counseling Through Psalms

03:56 Creating a Psalms Counseling Resource

05:20 The Power of Psalms in Counseling

07:02 Practical Applications of Psalms

09:00 Encouragement and Comfort in Psalms

14:18 Using Psalms as Prayers

16:24 Struggling and Isolating from the Lord

16:52 Engaging with Scripture Practically

17:07 Running to the Lord in Sinfulness

17:14 Psalm 130: Crying Out from the Depths

17:51 Forgiveness and Redemption in the Psalms

20:00 Old Testament Anticipation of the Messiah

23:13 Encouragement for Pastors in Soul Care

27:54 Jesus' Ministry of Personal Interaction

30:21 Paul's Ministry and Addressing Church Issues

31:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Episode Mentions
Counseling through the Psalms

EP. 174 Learning to Listen: Essential Skills for Every Counselor W/Author Joseph Hussung Jul 14, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Mike sits down with Joseph Hussung, the Director of Ministry Partnerships and Recruitment at Fieldstone Counseling, to discuss his new book, 'Learning to Listen.' Released in late March, the book is a significant contribution to the biblical counseling community. Hussung explains his journey, professional background, and motivations for writing the book. The conversation delves into the book's structure, emphasizing the importance of listening, empathy, and connecting with others in a counseling setting. Key themes include the purpose, posture, and practicalities of listening, along with overcoming sin-induced barriers. Hussung also introduces his GRACE acronym—Gaze, Relax, Align, Connect, Engage—as a guideline for effective listening. He highlights practical ways to close the gaps in context, values, and perspectives between counselors and counselees. The episode concludes with tips for purchasing the book and a call for listeners to send in future topics for discussion.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:27 Special Guest Introduction: Joseph Hussung
01:05 Joseph's Background and Experience
02:17 The Inspiration Behind 'Learning to Listen'
03:59 Book Structure: Purpose, Posture, and Practice of Listening
05:50 Connecting Love, Empathy, and Listening
08:09 The Impact of Sin on Listening
11:18 Jesus' Heart and Our Heart in Listening
11:53 Practical Listening Skills: The GRACE Acronym
14:39 Addressing Gaps in Listening
18:54 Active Listening and Responding
25:51 Conclusion and Book Promotion

Episode Mentions
Learning to Listen Book
Fieldstone Counseling

EP. 173 Finding Light in the Darkness: Matt King's Story and the Mission of Broom Tree Care Jul 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Speak the Truth, Mike interviews Matt King, the executive director of Broom Tree Care, at the Biblical Counseling Coalition Canada Conference. The conversation centers on Broom Tree Care's mission to provide biblical counseling and resources to those in need. Matt shares his personal testimony of experiencing a life-altering medical crisis in 2019, which led him to a profound understanding of God's presence even in the darkest moments. The discussion explores the paradoxical nature of light and darkness in the biblical context, emphasizing that God uses both to shape and sanctify His followers. Matt also discusses the practical resources Broom Tree Care offers and extends an invitation for collaboration to expand their outreach.

00:00 Introduction to Speak the Truth Podcast
00:34 Special Guest: Matt King from Broom Tree Care
01:23 The Mission and Vision of Broom Tree Care
05:25 Matt King's Personal Testimony
09:38 The Darkest Moments and Finding Light
19:24 Hope and Healing: Resources and Contact Information
22:18 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Episode Mentions:
Broom Tree

Email Matt: info@broomtreecare.com

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected