Unpacked with Skyler

American Christian Origins and Problematic Theology with Dr. Ben Witherington III

In this episode Skyler interview with New Testament scholar Ben Witherington about the origins of the Reformation, Christian origins in America, and theological problem from a rerelease of his book "The Problem with Evangelical Theology." Ben is Amos Professor of New Testament for Doctoral Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. He has althored over 60 books including a commentary on every book in the New Testament.  He brings a wealth of knowledge and wisdom for biblical scholarship and down to earth Christian living. LinksBen Witherington IIIThe Problem with Evangelical Theology: Testing the Exegetical Foundations of Calvinism, Dispensationalism, Wesleyanism, and Pentecostalism, Revised and Expanded Edition 

The Art of Disagreement with Ruth Jackson from Unbelievable Show

In this episode Skyler talks with Ruth Jackson about how to disagree without being disagreeable, and why we should welcome conversations with those we disagree with.  Ruth is a co-host with Premier Christian Radio and the Unbelievable Podcast where they specialize in bringing together Christians and non-Christians to discussion various topics.  She has also launched a Podcast with Alister McGrath called The C.S. Lewis Podcast. LinksRuth Jackson (Twitter) Justin Brierley (Twitter)Premier Christian RadioUnbelievable PodcastAsk N.T. Wright AnythingThe C.S. Lewis PodcastThe Daisy Chain Will Our Children Have Faith? by John Westerhoff III Tactics, by Gregory KouklePodcasts, Books, and Resources Where is God in all the suffering? Amy Orr-Ewing and Jon SteingardUnbelievable? God, Gay Christians and the Church - Brandan Robertson and David BennettThe Big ConversationUnbelievable the ConferenceAlpha

God’s open door with Duck Dynasty’s Al Robertson

In this episode Skyler interviews Alan Robertson from Duck Dynasty.  Alan helped his family with the family business (Duck Commander) making duck calls until he left to serve as a pastor at White's Ferry Road Church in West Monroe, LA. In 2012 he entered the rest of the Robertson family on the A&E Duck Dynasty show. Since the show last aired Alan has co-authored two books and travels frequently to speak on various topics. In this episode Skyler and Alan talk about his story, marriage, ministry, and the open doors God's brought their way  as a result of the show. LinksAlan Robertson (Website)Unashamed with Phil & Jase Robertson (Podcast)White's Ferry Road ChurchA New Season (Book)The Duck Commander Devotional for Couples  (Book)

Rural Church Turnaround with Danny Davis

In this episode Skyler interviews Danny Davis a rural pastor, Bible college professor, and rural church revitalization coach. Danny  has planted and revitalized churches in South Africa and the USA. He holds a Doctor of Education in Transformational Leadership and is the author of "Rural Church Turnaround: Real Life Experiences of Rural Pastors and Lay-Leaders." In this episode Skyler and Danny talk about his story, God's work of revitalization, and our role in the process.Rural Church Turnaround (website)Rural Church Turnaround: Real Life Experiences of Rural Pastors and Lay-Leaders.

Do Christians and Muslims worship the same God with Andy Bannister

In this episode Skyler talks with Dr. Andy Bannister about Islam and Christianity. Andy is a respect and sought after Christian scholar and speaking on Islam, Atheism, and apologetics. He serves as the director of Solas and is an adjunct speaker with the Ravi Zacharias International Ministry. On this episode Andy helps us to understand the complexities if Christians and Muslims worship the same God. LinksAndy BannisterSt. Patricks Bad AnalogiesSolas Center For Public ChristianityRavi Zacharias International MinistryThe Atheist Who Didn't Exist (Book)Do Christians and Muslims Worship the Same God?

Saving slaves, beating bad guys, and changing governments with Jon Good

In this episode Skyler talks with Jon Good from International Justice Mission (IJM) about the issue of modern day slavery and worldwide injustice. Jon serves as one of IJM’s church mobilization directors and helps equip churches by sharing the biblical call to justice, introducing churches to IJM’s ministry and mobilizing churches to engage in local and global justice ministries. LinksJon GoodInternational Justice MissionGlobal Slavery IndexCentral Illinois Prevention of Abuse Become a Freedom PartnerFor ChurchesThe Good News about Injustice (Book)NotesIJM's mission is to protect the poor from violence by partnering with local authorities to rescue victims, restore them back to health, retrain perpetrators, and restore the public justice system.Over 40 million people are enslaved today.Two main forms of slavery today: Forced Labor and Sex Trafficking.The 10-80-10 rule: in a corrupt system about 10% are corrupt and in it for the wrong reason, 10% are good and in it for the right reason, and 80% in the middle will go in the direction of whomever is getting the affirmation and the benefits.  

Why distance learning might be a parents greatest ministry opportunity with Shelia Maia

As many families are now experiencing the new advent of education at home is not simple and easy as it sounds. There are many factors and challenges that go into it, but at the same time there is also one of the greatest opportunities for parents, caregivers, and educators for discipleship. In this interview Skyler talks with Shelia Maia about a recent workshop that Rise City Church of Gresham, Oregon did to help resource parents with practical and biblical insights to navigate and redeem this new normal of distance learning. LinksRise City ChurchTiny TheologiansThe Daily Grace CoFour Common Challenges Families Are Facing with Distance LearningTrying to recreate a 6 hour school day at home.An overabundance of screen time.Figuring out what to do with your kid if the parent(s) have to work.Figuring out how to balance working from home and doing home education. Three Opportunities Presented to Families with Distance LearningA ministry opportunity for homeschool families and/or families with stay at home parent(s): offer support to working parent(s) by offering to open up your home for their kids to have a safe and supervised place for study or learning along with your kids. Distance learning allows families greater flexibility for education. Pick the time that works best for you.The Discipleship opportunity is GREAT! Use this time to shepherd your kids heart toward Christ.Tips for educating and learning successfully Create a vision statement for this school year.Be on the lookout for and acknowledge the Christlike character in everyday moments.Have them teach it back to you.Be your children biggest cheerleaders. Be mindful of the struggle for the stress and struggle this season has on everyone.Set an example for how you expect your kids to act and respond (more will be caught than taught)Assume the best about your parents.Do the hard things first.Eat good snack and get adequate movement.

Does God Care for Rural America with Jon Sanders

In this episode Skyler interviews Jon Sanders on life and ministry in rural America. Jon served as the Lead Pastor of The RESCUE Church in South Dakota. And had been considered a leading voice in the rural church arena. Jon hosts the Small Town Big Church Podcast that seeks to encourage rural pastors with the message that God delights in doing BIG things in small places. In addition to his passion for the rural church, Jon also serves as firefighter/EMT, and the regional director of the Rural Matter Institute. LinksRural Matters InstituteSmall Town Big Church (Podcast)Small Town Big Church (Website)