Christian Book Blurb

By Matt McChleryReligion & Spirituality Christianity

Christian Book Blurb episodes

November 03ep117 - Treasures in Straw: Tanya Marlow on the Griefs and Gifts of Christmas and Advent
Host Matt McChlery speaks with Christian author Tanya Marlow about *Treasures in Straw: Exploring the Griefs and Gifts of the Christmas Story*, an Advent devotional that looks beyond a sentimental Nativity to grief, danger, and hope. Marlow connects the Christmas story to disability, trauma, refugee experience, communal discipleship, and the promise that suffering will not have the final word.
Links
Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery
Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info
Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com
Visit Tanya Marlow's website tanyamarlow.com
Key Topics
Marlow explains how Christmas celebrations can intensify grief and isolation when people feel expected to be happy.
Her devotional removes the sentimental sheen from the Nativity and considers its real themes of danger, loss, and uncertainty.
Marlow reflects on chronic illness and disability, and on finding spiritual treasure within ordinary and painful circumstances.
Joseph's quiet support for Mary becomes an example of masculinity rooted in service rather than taking center stage.
The family's flight from Herod reframes the Christmas story through the experience of refugees fleeing danger today.
Discipleship for people in suffering may mean receiving God's love and help, while those who are more comfortable are challenged by the social implications of Mary's Magnificat.
The incarnation offers a God who understands human pain through lived experience, not simply a distant God who observes it.
The devotional runs through Epiphany and invites readers to name both a grief and a gift, making room for lament as well as praise.
Marlow discusses spiritual direction, anti-racism, trauma, and how churches can support people whose sense of self has been shattered.
The Big Church Read offers small groups a video and discussion guide; Marlow encourages readers to support Christian bookshops.
Takeaways
“Christmas is a loud speaker where the joys are accentuated, but also your pain is accentuated.”
“What if we could actually just take off some of that sheen and saccharine sentimentality?”
“Where might we find spiritual treasure?”
“It was about supporting Mary.”
“Discipleship for people who are suffering through hard times often looks like receiving.”
“There is a social element to this good news.”
“I have a God who understands, I have a God who empathizes.”
“It means he's come down from the stands and become a player.”
“We can take lament to God, raw lament that has no silver lining, no happy ending.”
“In the meantime, we have God's presence and we have God's people and both are needed.”
Sound Bites
"Christmas is a loud speaker"
"a clarion call for our age"
"grief and gift together"
Chapters
00:00 Introducing Tanya Marlow and her Advent book
01:23 Why Christmas can magnify grief
05:40 Finding treasure in illness and ordinary life
07:02 Joseph's example of quiet, supportive masculinity
09:08 The Nativity, Herod, and the experience of refugees
10:32 Receiving help and embracing communal discipleship
14:11 How the incarnation meets people in pain
16:14 A devotional practice of naming grief and gift
17:43 Hope, waiting, and God's presence
19:24 Marlow's life, disability, and spiritual direction
23:36 Anti-racism, trauma, and the church
25:05 The Big Church Read and supporting bookshops
32 min
October 15ep116 - How to Find Hope After Divorce: Faith, Healing, and Starting Over with Vaneetha Rendell Risner
Vaneetha Rendell Reisner shares her journey through divorce, the spiritual lessons learned, and practical advice for those facing similar challenges. This episode explores authentic faith, healing, and trusting God's plan amid life's unexpected turns.
Links
Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery
Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info
Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com
Visit Vaneetha Rendell Rsiner's website vaneetha.com
Key Topics
Vanita's personal journey through divorce
The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in writing
Practical steps for supporting someone through divorce
The role of forgiveness in healing
Theological reflections on suffering and God's goodness
Sound Bites
"This is not the end of your story."
"God is writing a good story with your life."
"God uses suffering to refine us."
Chapters
00:00 Intro and guest introduction
00:43 Vaneetha Rendell Risner and This Was Never the Plan
01:14 “This is not the end of your story”
02:17 Why honest writing matters
04:26 Christian writing: transformation, not just information
05:10 Single parenting and managing finances
07:08 Church questions, rumours, and public scrutiny
08:47 How to support someone going through divorce
12:11 Moving from bitterness toward forgiveness
15:15 Wrestling with God over suffering and shame
18:24 Lament, trust, and God’s presence in crisis
19:43 Finding hope in the story God is writing
21:22 Getting to know Vaneetha: life in Raleigh
23:48 Mountains, painting, and coffee with friends
24:46 Favourite coffee orders
26:03 Thai food and Chilean sea bass
27:15 The delight of God in us
29:11 Where to find Vaneetha and her books
30:14 Closing thanks and podcast outro
31 min
October 01ep115 - The Pressure-Free Way to Share Jesus with Andrew Steier
In this episode, Christian author and evangelism expert Andrew Steier shares insights from his book 'Always Going: The Joyful Overflow of Everyday Evangelism.' Discover how to integrate evangelism into daily life as a joyful, natural overflow of your relationship with Christ, rather than a task or obligation.
Links
Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery
Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info
Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com
Visit Andrew Steer's Website alwaysgoing.org
Key Topics
Evangelism as a worldview, not just a task
The importance of identity and rhythms in evangelism
Using everyday opportunities for gospel conversations
The role of spiritual gifts in evangelism
Planting, watering, and harvesting in spiritual growth
The team effort in evangelism and prayer
Takeaways
Evangelism is a worldview, not just a task.
Everyday conversations can be eternity-changing.
Calibrating your heart daily keeps evangelism natural.
Success in evangelism is faithfulness, not immediate results.
Evangelism is a team sport, not a solo effort.
Sound Bites
"Call it overflow, not obligation."
"God gave us gifts to share Jesus, uniquely."
"Learn their story, love them where they are."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Andrew Steier and his book
02:26 The essence of evangelism as a lifestyle
04:28 Evangelism as an overflow, not obligation
06:41 Shifting mindset from obligation to overflow
09:02 Using spiritual gifts for evangelism
12:24 The importance of community and listening in evangelism
16:36 Planting seeds and trusting God's timing
18:02 Measuring success as faithfulness, not results
21:12 Joy in evangelism and living out faith
23:28 Resources and where to find Andrew's book
39 min
September 15ep114 - Everyday Spiritual Habits with Hanna Seymour
Hannah Seymour discusses her book 'Everyday Spiritual Habits,' emphasising the importance of small, consistent spiritual practices over perfection. She shares insights on habits, joy, prayer, and overcoming shame in spiritual growth.
Links
Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery
Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info
Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com
Visit Hanna Seymour's Website hannaseymour.com
Key Topics
The difference between habits and disciplines
The role of joy and celebration in faith
Overcoming shame and guilt in spiritual practice
The importance of consistency over intensity
Practical tips for forming small, manageable habits
The impact of environment on habit formation
The significance of joy as a fruit of righteousness
Sound Bites
"Spiritual growth is about connection, not perfection"
"The kingdom of God is joy and peace"
"Joy is knowing God is in control, even in trials"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Hannah Seymour and her book
01:31 Why habits instead of disciplines?
03:10 Spiritual growth is about connection, not perfection
04:44 Habits as automatic behaviours
05:41 Small habits shape our lives
06:11 The science of habit formation
07:07 Shame versus guilt in spiritual practice
08:35 The power of small, consistent habits
11:18 Making spiritual habits easy and accessible
12:31 The value of consistency over intensity
17:46 Barriers to consistency: shame and time poverty
20:41 Living intentionally in all circumstances
21:22 Celebration and joy as spiritual disciplines
23:54 Joy versus happiness in faith
26:02 God's desire for us to grow through discomfort
27:26 One seed habit to start today
35:05 Connecting with Hannah Seymour and resources
37 min
September 01ep113 - From Blackburn to the Amish: Sheila Aston Interview
In this episode, Sheela Aston discusses her novel In Between Girl, exploring themes of faith, identity, and community within the Amish tradition. She shares insights into her inspiration, research process, and the importance of community in Christian life.
Links
Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery
Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info
Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com
Visit Sheelagh Aston's website sheelaghaston.com
Key Topics
Inspiration behind In Between Girl
Research process for Amish community depiction
Themes of identity and faith in the novel
The role of community in Christian life
Sheila Aston’s faith journey and writing process
The significance of Rumspringer in the story
Cultural diversity and Christian unity
The importance of authentic research in fiction
Sheila Aston’s personal hobbies and interests
How community shapes faith and identity
Sound Bites
"Never apologize for your faith."
"Community is essential for Christian identity."
"Choices about identity are part of our spiritual journey."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sheila Aston and In Between Girl
01:54 Inspiration behind the series and faith journey
03:47 Research process and depiction of Amish community
07:59 Themes of identity, change, and faith in the story
11:56 Use of Rumspringer as a storytelling device
16:01 Authenticity and moral compass of the protagonist
19:07 Community’s role in faith and belonging
22:07 Author’s personal hobbies and travel experiences
27:11 How to connect with Sheila Aston online
31:00 Where to buy Sheila Aston’s books
33 min
August 01ep112 - How Faith Shaped the Guinness Legacy with Michele Guinness
In this episode, Michele Guinness shares the fascinating history of her family, the Guinness family, and how their faith shaped their lives and legacy. Discover inspiring stories of faith, social action, and the impact of Christian values across generations.

Links
Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery
Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info
Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com
Michele Guinness' website https://www.micheleguinness.co.uk/

Key Topics
The Christian faith of the Guinness family across generations
Stories of missionary work and social justice in the family
The influence of faith on family traditions and legacy
Historical anecdotes about Henry Grattan Guinness and others
The role of faith in shaping social and community work
Takeaways
Faith and social action are deeply intertwined in the Guinness family history.
Family traditions of prayer and community service have been passed down through generations.
Personal stories highlight the impact of faith on individual lives and family legacy.
The importance of modeling faith and service from a young age.
Historical figures like Henry Grattan Guinness exemplify courage and conviction in faith.
Sound Bites
"It's like being with the Kennedys in New York."
"A stranger from nowhere saved him from the mob."
"He fell backwards off the stage and was spared."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Michelle Guinness and her family history
02:03 The structure of the family saga and storytelling approach
03:52 The power of the Guinness name and personal stories in Dublin
05:46 Family history's influence on personal identity and faith
10:59 Henry Grattan Guinness and his bold preaching in Ireland
14:54 The Christian faith passing through generations in the Guinness family
17:02 The impact of social action and community service
20:03 The role of family traditions and modelling faith
22:52 The influence of Wesleyan and other Christian traditions
24:59 Michelle Guinness's personal life, hobbies, and current work
32:04 Michelle's writing projects and autobiographical journey
34:00 Where to find and buy the book Guinness: The Untold Adventures
35:10 Closing remarks and encouragement to explore faith stories
37 min
July 15ep111 - God is Stranger: Embracing Biblical Hospitality in a Modern World with Krish Kandiah
In this episode, Christian author and speaker Chris Kandiah discusses his book 'God is Stranger,' exploring the biblical call to hospitality, refugee support, and the countercultural nature of Christian faith. Discover practical ways to live out these principles today.
Links
Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery
Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info
Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com
Visit Krish Kandiah's website sanctuaryfoundation.org.uk
Key Topics
Biblical hospitality and its modern application
The biblical view of refugees, strangers, and vulnerable groups
The importance of wrestling with difficult biblical passages
How Christian faith challenges cultural norms on immigration
The role of the church in supporting refugees and fostering community
The significance of sacrificial love and boundaries in hospitality
The impact of family and community in character formation
Practical ways to live out biblical hospitality today
Sound Bites
"We are called to be light in the darkness."
"Biblical hospitality is sacrificial and costly."
"Supporting refugees and fostering children transforms discipleship."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Chris Kandiah and his book 'God is Stranger'
01:56 The biblical basis for welcoming the stranger and refugee support
03:49 The biblical language of strangers, widows, and orphans
06:03 Countercultural nature of biblical teachings on hospitality
07:46 Wrestling with difficult and unsettling biblical passages
10:00 True biblical hospitality as sacrificial and costly
11:51 Balancing boundaries and sacrificial love in hospitality
13:59 How supporting refugees and fostering children shapes discipleship
15:53 Practical steps for living out biblical hospitality today
18:08 The importance of community, family, and character in faith
19:51 Where to find Chris Kandiah and his book 'God is Stranger'
33 min
July 01ep110 - Bless The Work of our Hands: Faith and Creativity with Jane Walters
In this episode, Christian author Jane Walters shares insights from her book 'Bless the Work of Our Hands,' exploring the intersection of faith and creativity, overcoming creative blocks, and balancing artistic pursuits with daily life.
Links
Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery
Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info
Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com
Visit Andy Robinson's website thebigcinme.org
Key Topics
Faith and creativity integration
Handling creative blocks through prayer
Balancing professional and hobbyist creativity
The importance of rest and play in creative life
The role of the Holy Spirit in creative work
Takeaways
Creativity is rooted in being made in God's image.
Prayer and honesty are vital during creative struggles.
Balancing work and play enhances overall creativity.
The 'messy middle' is a natural part of the creative process.
Supporting fellow creatives fosters community and growth.
Sound Bites
"God is interested in every area of our life."
"Joy is in the doing, not just the result."
"The Holy Spirit is stirring new things in us."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Creativity and Faith
03:02 Bridging Faith and Creativity
05:55 The Messy Middle of Creative Projects
08:49 Creativity Under Pressure
11:56 Reframing Failure in Creativity
15:00 Finding Joy in the Creative Process
18:03 The Role of Prayer in Creativity
20:49 Community and Support for Creatives
23:58 Personal Insights and Reflections
26:52 Conclusion and Call to Action
42 min
June 15ep109 - The Big C in Me: Faith, Hope, and Living Fully with Andy Robinson
In this episode, Andy Robinson shares his powerful journey with stage four cancer, exploring how faith, hope, and living boldly can transform even the darkest moments. Discover practical insights on living with purpose, supporting loved ones, and finding hope amidst life's challenges.
Links
Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery
Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info
Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com
Visit Andy Robinson's website thebigcinme.org
Key Topics
The meaning behind 'The Big C in Me' and faith in adversity
Living boldly and intentionally when facing terminal illness
The role of peace and hope in cancer treatment
Supporting loved ones through cancer and chemo
The intersection of medicine, faith, and healing
Building community for those affected by cancer
The importance of honest conversations about faith and healing
Practical ways to support someone with cancer
The impact of living as if each day is precious
Andy Robinson's personal journey and faith story
Sound Bites
"Christ in me is the big C in me"
"Peace that passes understanding is a gift from Jesus"
"Why not me? is a powerful question"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Faith and Cancer
03:09 Understanding 'The Big C' and Living Boldly
05:56 The Role of Peace in Facing Terminal Illness
09:06 The Importance of Community and Support
11:54 Navigating Medical and Spiritual Healing
15:04 The Online Community: The Big C in Me
18:04 Practical Support for Loved Ones Facing Cancer
20:58 Personal Reflections and Life Beyond Cancer
23:55 Conclusion and Encouragement for the Journey
36 min
June 01ep108 - All About Grief with David Oliver
In this heartfelt interview, Christian author David Oliver shares insights from his book 'All About Grief,' exploring the biblical perspective on death, dying well, and how to support those who mourn. Discover practical advice, personal stories, and spiritual guidance to navigate grief with faith and hope.
Links
Help keep this podcast on the web by simply buying me a coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/mattmcchlery
Sponsor an episode of this podcast Click for Advertising info
Visit Matt McChlery's website mattmcchlery.com
Visit David Oliver's website davidoliverbooks.com
Key Topics
Biblical perspective on death and grief
How to die well as a Christian
Supporting those who mourn from a biblical view
Key Frameworks
Biblical Theology of Death
Dying Well Framework
Action Items
Validate the pain of those grieving
Pray for guidance when supporting mourners
Be present and listen without trying to fix
Sound Bites
"Where is my son now?"
"Death is the doorway to the greatest adventure"
"He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Grief and Faith
03:09 The Journey of Grief: Personal Experiences
06:05 The Importance of Discussing Grief
08:52 Dying Well: A New Perspective
12:14 God's Promises in Grief
14:54 Finding Comfort in Scripture
18:05 Practical Advice for Supporting the Grieving
27:03 The Author's Personal Journey and Hobbies
44 min

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Encouraging you in your discipleship one book at a time as we chat with some amazing Christian authors about their books, their lives, and their faith on this twice-monthly podcast.

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