Ask Dr. E

Q: What are your thoughts on Michael Tait, DC talk, how the industry should respond, and what CCM listeners should do as far as keeping music in rotation?

Summary

In this episode, Dr. E addresses a thoughtful question about contemporary Christian music (CCM) artists who fall into moral failure. Should believers continue listening to their music? Should the Christian music industry respond differently when artists face scandals?

Dr. E and Hanna discuss how these questions are not new. From Amy Grant to Sandy Patty, the industry has long wrestled with balancing ministry and business. While some organizations once pulled music from the shelves, today financial interests often outweigh ethical concerns.

At the heart of the issue is Paul’s instruction in 1 Thessalonians 5:21–22: “Examine everything carefully; hold fast to what is good; abstain from every form of evil.” Dr. E encourages believers to take this personally and seriously. If supporting a particular artist or listening to their music troubles your conscience, don’t do it. But at the same time, he reminds listeners that we live in a fallen world where every industry—including Christian music—will reflect sin.

Takeaways

Believers must examine carefully and hold fast to what is good (1 Thess. 5:21–22).

If listening to certain music troubles your conscience, it’s wise to avoid it.

The CCM industry is often driven by profit more than ethics.

Moral failure among Christian leaders and artists is nothing new.

God can still use flawed ministries to spread the gospel.

Our trust must rest in Christ, not in celebrities or cultural figures.

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If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].

Q: I am sure you have asked and answered this before and here I am asking again. This may be several questions because I can't parse it to something simple due to its complexity and the rigidness that's felt within the church in regards to this (on either side). Can women be pastors? Can women be given the title of pastor? I did search and the title pastor is defined as a person leading a congregation or church so my thinking is no. However, what if the title is that of pastor of children's ministries etc? However that brought another question to mind - which is why give a woman the title of pastor and not as director? There are two groups of people - some say yes and use scripture and some say no and use Scripture. 

Paul in Corinth with Pricilla, Phoebe and a few others are all part of the thinking that women can be in authority and leadership. The argument from the yes side is that scripture is being taken out of context and that 1 Timothy 1 is a prime example of how women can be in authority (there is also question of who actually wrote Timothy 1) Acts 18 is also used as a stance that women can teach/be in authority over men. Maybe part of the issue here is the definitions of what Pricilla was doing in Acts 18 vs what a pastor really does. But Phoebe was considered a deacon so that would assume she had some leadership capabilities. 

The flip side to the stance that women can't be is how are we to mother/teach our sons? Are women allowed to be teachers? You can see the slippery slope down I am sure. So, could you please do a deep dive into this? I am struggling as I am running into this more and more within churches. One church we were attending came out and said women could be deacons and then another called a woman a pastor but they also had director roles - which made it more confusing as a person attending an event.

Summary

In this episode, Dr. E draws from both Old and New Testament passages to help listeners navigate the often-confused conversation about women in ministry by distinguishing between the office of elder and the gift of pastor-teacher.

He explains that the New Testament uses terms like presbuteros (elder) and episkopos (overseer) interchangeably to describe a church office reserved for men, while the role of pastor-teacher is given as a spiritual gift, not an office. Women are clearly permitted to pray and prophesy in the church (1 Corinthians 11), yet Paul prohibits them from teaching or exercising authority over men (1 Timothy 2).

Dr. E also explores how churches use titles like “director,” “minister,” or “pastor,” and why clarity in terminology is essential. He highlights examples like Phoebe in Romans 16 and Timothy’s upbringing under his mother and grandmother to show the important role women play in ministry, even if not as elders. Men and women share equal value before God, yet Scripture outlines distinct roles within the church for the sake of order and faithfulness.

Takeaways:

Links Mentioned

Can Women Baptize People in The Church?

Can Women Be Deacons?

What Does The Bible Say About Women Leading in The Church?

Council of Biblical Manhood and Womanhood

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If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].

Q: I recently finished a Bible study on Revelation and have a lingering question. Revelation states that after Satan is permanently cast into the lake of fire and after the final judgement, God will create a new heavens and a new earth. In the new heavens and new earth there will be no more tears, mourning, etc because sin is no longer present and the heirs of Christ are transformed to be like Him. Because God remains in control, Satan must ask permission or be allowed to wreak havoc, evil, and pain on earth. Since (If) Satan still has access to God and the souls of the heirs of Christ that have died physically are in God's presence, is there mourning in heaven for the souls, angels, and God until the new heavens and new earth?

Summary

In this episode, Dr. E addresses a listener’s question about whether there is mourning in heaven before the creation of the new heavens and new earth. Drawing from Revelation 20, Dr. E explains the premillennial view: Christ will reign for a literal thousand years before Satan is released to deceive the nations. Even in a perfect environment, humanity’s sinful nature will persist, revealing mankind’s deep depravity and God’s sovereign plan. While Satan is the tempter and deceiver, he does not force people to sin, and not every hardship should be attributed to him. In heaven, believers will have shed their sin nature and be fully transformed in Christ’s presence. The overwhelming glory and holiness of Jesus will eclipse earthly concerns, leaving no room for fear, worry, or grief. Dr. E emphasizes that while we may speculate about prophetic details, Scripture assures us that God’s justice will be complete and His people fully redeemed. In light of eternity’s reality, our greatest focus should be on faithful living now, knowing that the presence of Christ will surpass every sorrow we have ever known.

Takeaways:

In the premillennial view, Christ will reign on earth for a literal thousand years before Satan’s final rebellion.

Even in perfect conditions, humanity’s sin nature leads to rebellion against God.

Satan tempts and deceives but cannot force people to sin.

Not every hardship is directly caused by Satan—life happens in a fallen world.

In heaven, believers will be fully transformed, free from sin and grief.

The presence of Christ will overshadow all earthly concerns and sorrows.

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If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].

Q: Do you have a book, sermon, or other resource to help Christians to maintain their faith as they go through chronic suffering? My daughter has a debilitating disease that she got in her early 20’s and it has progressively got worse in 3+ years. She says she can’t forgive God for not healing her and even if he healed her now she asks why he didn’t heal her before. She’s so angry with God she’s giving up on a relationship with Him and ready to completely walk away from any faith. Please help. 

Summary

In this episode, Dr. E offers wisdom to a father whose daughter is wrestling with debilitating illness, anger at God, and a fading faith. Dr. E shares that while he’s never asked God “why,” he’s often asked Him “how” — how to live well through pain, how to endure with grace, and how to resist bitterness. Drawing from his own chronic suffering journey, Dr. E unpacks the difference between entitlement and surrender, encouraging listeners to reframe suffering in light of God's sovereignty.

He offers gentle but clear guidance: some “why” questions may never be answered this side of heaven, and continuing to ask them may only deepen bitterness. Instead, he urges us to ask “how” — how can I respond faithfully today? Recommended resources like A Place of Healing by Joni Eareckson Tada and How Long, O Lord? by D.A. Carson offer paths to healing and spiritual perspective. Ultimately, Dr. E reminds us that we can't carry others’ faith, but we can lead, love, and trust that God is still writing the story — even in the pain.

Takeaways

Asking “how do I live?” leads to faithfulness; asking “why did this happen?” can lead to bitterness.

Chronic suffering may never come with clear answers — but God offers sustaining grace.

We cannot force someone else’s faith, but we can lead them gently through love.

Surrendering our sense of entitlement is key to enduring trials with spiritual maturity.

There are some “why” questions in life that will never be answered — and that’s okay.

Links Mentioned

A Place of Healing by Joni Eareckson Tada

Pain And Providence by Joni Eareckson Tada

Beyond Suffering Bible by Joni Eareckson Tada

How Long, O Lord by D.A. Carson

Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here.

If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].

Q: "Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so."

Can you help me see where in the Bible it teaches that Jesus specifically loves us? I see good verses on the love of God the father and a lot on the obedience of Jesus' sacrifice. But where does the Bible say or support the notion that Jesus has specific love for us as opposed to a general obedience out of love for the Father? 

Summary:

In this episode, Dr. E tackles a heartfelt question: Does Jesus specifically love us, or is His love simply obedience to the Father? Through careful Scripture study—from Deuteronomy and John to Romans—Dr. E explains that Jesus’ love is deeply personal and rooted in God’s faithful promises, not our worthiness or numbers. He emphasizes that Jesus and the Father share one love, and Jesus calls us to abide in that love by keeping His commandments, which leads to true joy and fullness in our lives. To illustrate the depth of God’s love, Dr. E reflects on the unique and powerful love parents feel for their firstborn children as a glimpse of God’s love for us as His image bearers. This conversation encourages believers to rest confidently in Jesus’ specific and abiding love, and to let that love shape how we love others daily.

Takeaways:

Jesus loves us personally, not just generally out of obedience to the Father.

God’s love for His people is based on His faithful promises, not their merit.

Jesus commands us to abide in His love by keeping His commandments.

The joy of Jesus’ love is made full in those who remain connected to Him.

Parental love gives us a small glimpse of how deeply God loves His image bearers.

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If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].

Q: In lots of your sermons and interviews I hear you say that it is God’s will for us (as Christians) to go to Israel. Why is that? Also, could you explain replacement theology and what you believe instead? Does God still have a plan for His people through end times?

Might be too many questions but with how much the world has been against Israel and Jews in general. I have struggled through these things lately in God’s word to try and push back the world's beliefs. Thank you for all you do!

Summary

In this episode, Dr. E addresses a listener’s questions about Israel, replacement theology, and God’s ongoing plan for His chosen people. Many Christians wonder: Why should believers visit Israel? Does the modern church replace Israel in God’s redemptive story? And does God still have a unique plan for the Jewish people today?

Dr. E explains how walking the land of Israel transforms a believer’s understanding of Scripture—turning the “black-and-white text” into “holographic color.” He also contrasts biblical teaching with replacement theology, which claims the church has superseded Israel. Drawing from passages like Romans 9–11 and Deuteronomy 30, Dr. E highlights God’s steadfast love and His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—promises that cannot simply be erased.

Ultimately, this conversation invites Christians to approach Scripture with humility, honoring God’s faithfulness to Israel while anticipating the future fulfillment of His plan in the new heavens, new earth, and new Jerusalem.

Takeaways

Visiting Israel transforms how believers read and understand the Bible.

Replacement theology claims the church has superseded Israel in God’s plan.

Scripture consistently affirms God’s covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants.

Romans 9–11 and Deuteronomy 30 are essential to understanding God’s plan for Israel.

God’s steadfast love reflects His loyalty to His chosen people.

Christians should let Scripture, not trends in theology, guide their understanding of Israel.

Links Mentioned:

The Moody Handbook of Theology by Paul Enns

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If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].

Q:I watched your YT session on "If Christians should use AI".   I have a dilemma currently with music.

I only listen to Faith/Christian music and recently have found some new music that I am very much enjoying.  I always do research on the band/music/song to ensure it is morally within the context of Scripture and the message is directed about Jesus.

However, I found out that this new Christian/Faith music that I was listening to was AI created.  The publisher of the music on social media has openly admitted that the songs are AI created.  The messages in the songs are (in my belief) to be strong Christian messages. 

I do have some reservations with AI creating songs like this.  I am not sure if I am over-reacting to this, but it scares me somewhat. One day we may not know what AI created and passed as someone's work.  Would it be wrong to let AI help us create something that we feel are unable to express?  It seems that we are cheating in some way by using AI.

Summary:

In this episode, Dr. E tackles a question about whether or not it's wrong to let AI help us creatively. AI isn’t inherently evil. It’s a tool—like electricity or a microwave. It can help us find information, speed up tasks, and even assist in medicine. But when it starts replacing our thinking, our creativity, or our worship, we need to pause. MIT research shows that relying on AI can actually reduce how our brains function. That’s not just a tech issue. That’s a spiritual issue.

We’re image-bearers of a creative God. We’re meant to struggle, to think, to wrestle with truth and beauty. Taking shortcuts with something as sacred as worship or prayer robs us of the growth God intended. AI might be efficient, but it’s not inspired. 

Takeaways:

AI is a tool, not a substitute for the God-given work of creativity and discipleship.

Outsourcing creative labor to AI can undermine spiritual formation.

AI-generated messages, even with good theology, lack the soul of human wrestling.

MIT studies show AI use diminishes brain activity and engagement over time.

Christians should be cautious about “cheating” their way through expressions of faith.

We are image-bearers of a Creator—designed to think, feel, and create, not copy.

Links Mentioned:

Should Christians Use AI? 

The Kerby Anderson interview Michael mentions will come out on 8/5. We'll update this with the link once it's live but you can subscribe here to keep an eye out. 

Kerby Anderson on AI use

John Piper ChatGPT Prayer 

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If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].

Q: Hi Dr. E, Based on Revelation 12:9, when was Satan cast out of heaven? Could you give me Scriptures for your reasoning? Thanks so much!

Summary

In this episode, Dr. E unpacks Revelation 12:9 and explores what Scripture reveals about Satan’s fall, his defeat, and final judgment. From his rebellion and role in Eden to his defeat at the cross and expulsion during the tribulation, Dr. E outlines the key stages of Satan’s downfall. He addresses the complex theological implications of evil still being active even as believers are with God in heaven.

Dr. E also explains the shifting scholarly interpretations of Isaiah and Ezekiel, passages long associated with Satan but increasingly seen as addressing earthly kings. He affirms that while some details remain mysterious, the overarching truth is clear: Satan is a defeated enemy, and God is sovereign over all.

The question of whether there is mourning in heaven today is ultimately tied to the hope of final restoration. While sorrow may exist in a limited or temporary sense, heaven is defined by God’s presence—and His plan leads to a future where mourning is forever removed.

Takeaways

Satan's defeat was pronounced in Eden and finalized at the cross.

Revelation 12 places Satan’s final expulsion during the tribulation.

Solid theological resources help us navigate complex doctrines.

God's sovereignty and ultimate victory are never in doubt.

Theology should lead to faithful living, not just curiosity.

Links Mentioned:

The Moody Handbook of Theology by Paul Enns

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If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].

Q: Over the past few episodes or so, I believe I heard that “the Trinity” is not found in the Bible.  This inspired some study, and now I’m wondering why we call God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit the Trinity at all?  It seems that, before the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, early Christians had differing ways of describing them, usually referring to them as separate, but not necessarily as a 3-in-1. 

As a child, I tried to think of the Trinity like an apple with the outer part, inner part, and the seeds being separate but one, and that being like God.  But that was still incredibly confusing.  Is that confusion necessary, if it’s not actually described that way in the Bible?  What if we went back to the early Christian way of understanding, that the relationship between them is not fully defined?  More mysterious, but maybe more precise that way?  Thanks for your thoughts!

Summary:

Dr. E addresses a listener’s question regarding the Trinity. Dr. E affirms that while the term “Trinity” doesn’t appear in Scripture, the truth of the Trinity is clearly taught throughout. He explains that God exists as three united persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—without separate existence, forming one divine essence. Using passages like Matthew 3:16–17, 1 Corinthians 12:4–7, and others, Dr. Easley shows how Scripture reveals each person of the Godhead functioning distinctly yet in perfect unity.

He cautions against modalism and stresses the importance of clarity over mystery. The early church wrestled with how to define the Trinity, but Scripture drives us toward this essential doctrine for understanding salvation: the Father sends the Son, the Son accomplishes redemption, and the Spirit indwells believers. While mysterious, the Trinity is vital—foundational to Christianity and unmistakably present in the biblical narrative. In short, we don’t believe in three gods—we believe in one God, three persons, co-equal and co-eternal.

Takeaways:

The word “Trinity” isn’t in Scripture, but the doctrine is clearly taught.

God exists as three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—in one divine essence.

Analogies like water or apples oversimplify and often misrepresent the Trinity.

Scripture presents the Father sending the Son, the Son sending the Spirit, and the Spirit indwelling believers.

The Trinity is essential for understanding salvation and God’s relational nature.

We worship one God in three persons—not three gods, and not one God acting in different modes.

Links Mentioned:

The Moody Handbook of Theology by Paul Enns

Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here.

If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].

Q: I go to a Christian college and many students, including some of my friends, are converting to Catholicism. Here are my questions: What are your insights on how to engage with them when they are talking about it? I am concerned they are leaning more towards works rather than trusting in the finished work of Jesus. What are things that I can do as a friend veer towards judgement? I am trying to show love to them but also pointing out their bad theology. They are also very focused on Mary being the Saint. How would you respond to that? Are there books you recommend to help me understand the differences between Catholics and Evangelicals?

Summary:

In this episode, Dr. E and Hanna explore how to engage Catholics with grace by discussing the theological differences between Catholicism and Evangelicalism, especially regarding faith, works, and the role of tradition. They stress the importance of understanding both faiths’ core beliefs and encourage believers to approach conversations with kindness and patience. The conversation also underscores the significance of prayer and the desire for greater depth in spiritual practices.

Takeaways:

Salvation by grace alone, through faith, is non-negotiable in evangelical theology.

Catholicism often elevates tradition and ritual above Scripture.

Worship of Mary and the saints lacks biblical support.

Protestantism emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ’s finished work on the cross.

Many Catholics don’t fully understand their own church's doctrine.

Engage friends with love, prayer, and Scripture—not argument.

Links Mentioned:

Chris Castaldo on inContext

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If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at [email protected].