This week I’m joined again by Dr.Hopkins, professor at Truett Seminary, as we open up 1 John 2 and talk aboutwhat it really means to “not love theworld.”

So often this passage is misused ormisapplied—but when we step into the text faithfully, we discover something farricher and deeper for our lives today.

We’ll also continue along theInterpretive Journey, moving into the 5th and final step: grasping the text inour town.This is where Scripture comes off the page and into our daily lives,shaping how we live as God’s people here and now.

Biblical Rooting:

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. Ifanyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” —1 John 2:15

Show Resources:

(Please note: We may share links toexternal resources for your convenience. However, this does not imply fullendorsement of the entire site, author, or organization. The views expressedmay differ from our own.)

Your Support Matters:

Thispodcast is a branch of Stepping Forward Ministries, a Houston-based 501(c)(3)nonprofit dedicated to using the unwavering truths of God’s Word to teach,equip, and empower people to step forward in their relationship with Christ.One of the ways we fulfill this mission is through this podcast! To learn moreabout us, visit www.steppingfwd.org.

Wantto connect, support, or take a step of faith? Whether you have a story toshare, want to sponsor our podcast, support the mission, or learn how to followJesus—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s put faith into action together!

👉Click here to connect with us. Don’t forget to add us on your socialmedia accounts! You can find us at @steppingfwdministries across all platforms!

Disclaimer:

SouthernSoul Chats and Stepping Forward Ministries are not a church, pastoralauthority, or licensed counseling service. While we aim to equip and encourageyou through biblical truth and personal testimonies, all content shared is forspiritual encouragement and educational purposes only. By listening, youacknowledge that you engage with this content voluntarily and accept fullresponsibility for how you apply it in your life.

What a blast to sit down with another Alabama native! Dr. Gardner, Professor at Truett Seminary, joins me to explore Philemon and dive into all things Scripture and God. In this episode, we take a fresh look at applying Scripture thoughtfully to real-life situations, ethics, and relationships—showing that the Bible is far from outdated.

Dr. Gardner provides a thorough overview of Philemon, helping listeners understand its message, context, and how to live it out today. This conversation is packed with insight, encouragement, and a reminder of the enduring relevance of God’s Word.

Biblical Rooting: 

"And I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ." - Philemon 1:6 (ESV)

Show Resources:

(Please note: We may share links to external resources for your convenience. However, this does not imply full endorsement of the entire site, author, or organization. The views expressed may differ from our own.)

Your Support Matters:

This podcast is a branch of Stepping Forward Ministries, a Houston-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to using the unwavering truths of God’s Word to teach, equip, and empower people to step forward in their relationship with Christ. One of the ways we fulfill this mission is through this podcast! To learn more about us, visit www.steppingfwd.org.

Want to connect, support, or take a step of faith? Whether you have a story to share, want to sponsor our podcast, support the mission, or learn how to follow Jesus—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s put faith into action together!

👉 Click here to connect with us. Don’t forget to add us on your social media accounts! You can find us at @steppingfwdministries across all platforms!

Disclaimer:

Southern Soul Chats and Stepping Forward Ministries are not a church, pastoral authority, or licensed counseling service. While we aim to equip and encourage you through biblical truth and personal testimonies, all content shared is for spiritual encouragement and educational purposes only. By listening, you acknowledge that you engage with this content voluntarily and accept full responsibility for how you apply it in your life.

This week on Out of Context, I’m joined by Dr. Tucker, Professor at Truett Seminary, as we take a close look at the book of Malachi. We explore how this often-misinterpreted text speaks to God’s people about tithing, community, and living out the Kingdom of God.

Dr. Tucker helps us unpack the historical and cultural context of Malachi, showing how its message goes far beyond a simple checklist of giving. Together, we discuss how God calls His people into a life that reflects His Kingdom here on earth—through generosity, relational community, and faithful obedience.

We’ll also be moving into Step 3 of the Interpretive Journey, continuing to learn how to faithfully bridge God’s Word from its original context into our lives today.

This episode will equip you to read Malachi with fresh insight and see how God’s principles can shape how we live, give, and love in our communities.

Biblical Rooting: 

"Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need." Malachi 3:10 (ESV)

Show Resources:

(Please note: We may share links to external resources for your convenience. However, this does not imply full endorsement of the entire site, author, or organization. The views expressed may differ from our own.)

Your Support Matters:

This podcast is a branch of Stepping Forward Ministries, a Houston-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to using the unwavering truths of God’s Word to teach, equip, and empower people to step forward in their relationship with Christ. One of the ways we fulfill this mission is through this podcast! To learn more about us, visit www.steppingfwd.org.

Want to connect, support, or take a step of faith? Whether you have a story to share, want to sponsor our podcast, support the mission, or learn how to follow Jesus—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s put faith into action together!

👉 Click here to connect with us. Don’t forget to add us on your social media accounts! You can find us at @steppingfwdministries across all platforms!

Disclaimer:

Southern Soul Chats and Stepping Forward Ministries are not a church, pastoral authority, or licensed counseling service. While we aim to equip and encourage you through biblical truth and personal testimonies, all content shared is for spiritual encouragement and educational purposes only. By listening, you acknowledge that you engage with this content voluntarily and accept full responsibility for how you apply it in your life.

This week on Out of Context, I’m joined by Dr. Todd Still, Dean of TruettSeminary, as we dive into Paul’s words in Philippians. Together, we explorewhat these passages meant for their original audience and begin tackling Step 2of the Interpretive Journey.

If you’ve ever wondered why a passagemeant something specific then but applies differently now, this conversationwill help you see Scripture with deeper clarity and wisdom. Today let’s uncoverthe depth of Paul’s message and start learning how to bridge it faithfully intoour lives today.

Biblical Rooting:

"Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I havelearned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low,and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned thesecret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need."

-Philippians 4:11–12, ESV

Show Resources:

Smith& Helwys Bible Commentary: Philippians & Philemon

enduringword.com

https://planobiblechapel.org/constable-notes/

(Please note: We may share links toexternal resources for your convenience. However, this does not imply fullendorsement of the entire site, author, or organization. The views expressedmay differ from our own.)

Your Support Matters:

Thispodcast is a branch of Stepping Forward Ministries, a Houston-based 501(c)(3)nonprofit dedicated to using the unwavering truths of God’s Word to teach,equip, and empower people to step forward in their relationship with Christ.One of the ways we fulfill this mission is through this podcast! To learn moreabout us, visit www.steppingfwd.org.

Wantto connect, support, or take a step of faith? Whether you have a story toshare, want to sponsor our podcast, support the mission, or learn how to followJesus—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s put faith into action together!

👉Click here to connect with us. Don’t forget to add us on your socialmedia accounts! You can find us at @steppingfwdministries across all platforms!

Disclaimer:

SouthernSoul Chats and Stepping Forward Ministries are not a church, pastoralauthority, or licensed counseling service. While we aim to equip and encourageyou through biblical truth and personal testimonies, all content shared is forspiritual encouragement and educational purposes only. By listening, youacknowledge that you engage with this content voluntarily and accept fullresponsibility for how you apply it in your life.

In this week’s episode of Out of Context, I’m joined by Pastor KyFaciane from The Met Church in Houston, TX, as we take a closer look at Job20:6–11. Ky walks us through his process of breaking down scripture and shareswhy it’s so important to read passages within their full context.

Together, we begin teaching Step 1 of theInterpretive Journey: Grasping the Text in Their Town—learning how tounderstand what the passage meant to the original audience before applying ittoday.

This episode will help you slow down,listen well, and discover the richness of God’s Word beyond surface-levelreadings.

Biblical Rooting:

"Though his pride reaches to the heavens and his headtouches the clouds, he will perish forever, like his own dung; those who haveseen him will say, ‘Where is he?’"

— Job 20:6–7 (ESV)

Show Resources:

HowardHendricks:

Living by the Book

Teaching to Change Lives

http://www.relevantmagazine.com/god/five-verses-dont-mean-what-you-think

Links to an external site.

https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2021/january-february/bible-translation-devil-in-details.html

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/why-use-bible-commentaries/

https://readthehardparts.com/bible-atlas/

(Please note: We may share links toexternal resources for your convenience. However, this does not imply fullendorsement of the entire site, author, or organization. The views expressedmay differ from our own.)

Your Support Matters:

Thispodcast is a branch of Stepping Forward Ministries, a Houston-based 501(c)(3)nonprofit dedicated to using the unwavering truths of God’s Word to teach,equip, and empower people to step forward in their relationship with Christ.One of the ways we fulfill this mission is through this podcast! To learn moreabout us, visit www.steppingfwd.org.

Wantto connect, support, or take a step of faith? Whether you have a story toshare, want to sponsor our podcast, support the mission, or learn how to followJesus—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s put faith into action together!

👉Click here to connect with us. Don’t forget to add us on your socialmedia accounts! You can find us at @steppingfwdministries across all platforms!

Disclaimer:

SouthernSoul Chats and Stepping Forward Ministries are not a church, pastoralauthority, or licensed counseling service. While we aim to equip and encourageyou through biblical truth and personal testimonies, all content shared is forspiritual encouragement and educational purposes only. By listening, youacknowledge that you engage with this content voluntarily and accept fullresponsibility for how you apply it in your life.

In this week's episode, Rediscovering True Encounters, from our series Out of Context, Dr. David Tate walks us through two beloved stories—the Woman at the Well and Nicodemus’ encounter with Jesus. Often misunderstood, these narratives hold profound truths about identity, worship, and faith. Discover how context changes everything, and learn how to approach Scripture with clarity and purpose. Packed with insights and practical tips, this episode will leave you ready to dive deeper into the Bible. This week, we’re also equipping you with practical application by introducing basic tools for studying the Bible. Whether you’re a seasoned student of Scripture or just beginning your journey, these foundational skills will help you read and understand God’s Word with greater depth and insight. Make sure you refer to the resource page for all those details. Biblical Rooting: 2 Timothy 3:16 (NIV)“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”(Please note: We may share links to external resources for your convenience. However, this does not imply full endorsement of the entire site, author, or organization. The views expressed may differ from our own.)Show Resources:Grasping God’s Word Bible App Biblewebapp.com: (NET) version with y’all (used as multiple tense for you) under settings: Southern US When A Word Is Worth A Thousand Complaints (and When It Isn’t) Bible translation is about more than just technical accuracy. Jordan K. Monson December 21, 2020 https://youtu.be/1VX_TuDHv_8 _ THis is one of my favorite videos from the program! Dr. Tate does an excellent job at breaking down the Interpretive Journey. Want to know more on Samaritans go here: https://www.amazon.com/Baker-Illustrated-Bible-Handbook/dp/0801012961http://biologos.org/common-questions/biblical-interpretation/scripture-interpretation https://www.christianitytoday.com/2008/04/hermeneutics-quiz-2/https://craigkeener.com/why-it-is-important-to-study-the-bible-in-context/ https://truettseminary.baylor.edu/programs-centers/online-certificate-programYour Support Matters:This podcast is a branch of Stepping Forward Ministries, a Houston-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to using the unwavering truths of God’s Word to teach, equip, and empower people to step forward in their relationship with Christ. One of the ways we fulfill this mission is through this podcast! To learn more about us, visit www.steppingfwd.org.Want to connect, support, or take a step of faith? Whether you have a story to share, want to sponsor our podcast, support the mission, or learn how to follow Jesus—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s put faith into action together!👉 Click here to connect with us. Don’t forget to add us on your social media accounts! You can find us at @steppingfwdministries across all platforms!Disclaimer:Southern Soul Chats and Stepping Forward Ministries are not a church, pastoral authority, or licensed counseling service. While we aim to equip and encourage you through biblical truth and personal testimonies, all content shared is for spiritual encouragement and educational purposes only. By listening, you acknowledge that you engage with this content voluntarily and accept full responsibility for how you apply it in your life.

In this kickoff episode of Out of Context,titled Understanding the Journey Ahead,we’re setting the stage for a transformative journey into understandingScripture as it was originally intended. Joined by the insightful Dr. DavidTate from Truett Seminary, we delve into the importance of context in unlockingthe true meaning of God’s Word. Together, we explore common pitfalls ofmisinterpretation, the historical and cultural lenses necessary for accuratestudy, and practical tools to help you approach the Bible with greater depthand clarity. Whether you’re just beginning your Bible study journey or seekingto deepen your understanding, this foundational episode provides the insightand guidance needed to uncover the richness, relevance, and transformativetruth of Scripture.

Biblical Rooting:

Joshua 1:8 (NIV)

Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate onit day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it.Then you will be prosperous and successful.

Show Resources:

●      Four guidelines for choosing a translation:

1.   Choose a translation that usesmodern English.

2.   Choose a translation that isbased on the standard Hebrew and Greek text.

3.   Give preference to a translationby a committee over against a translation by an individual.

4.   Choose a translation that isappropriate for your situation.

Title: GraspingGod's Word: A Hands-On Approach to Reading, Interpreting, and Applying theBible, 4th edition
Authors: J. Scott Duvall and J. Daniel Hays
ISBN-13: 978-0310109174

Orderfrom Amazon

Links to an external site.

Bible Web App

https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2021/january-february/bible-translation-devil-in-details.html

https://truettseminary.baylor.edu/programs-centers/online-certificate-program

(Please note: We may share links toexternal resources for your convenience. However, this does not imply fullendorsement of the entire site, author, or organization. The views expressedmay differ from our own.)

Your Support Matters:

Thispodcast is a branch of Stepping Forward Ministries, a Houston-based 501(c)(3)nonprofit dedicated to using the unwavering truths of God’s Word to teach,equip, and empower people to step forward in their relationship with Christ.One of the ways we fulfill this mission is through this podcast! To learn moreabout us, visit www.steppingfwd.org.

Wantto connect, support, or take a step of faith? Whether you have a story toshare, want to sponsor our podcast, support the mission, or learn how to followJesus—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s put faith into action together!

👉Click here to connect with us. Don’t forget to add us on your socialmedia accounts! You can find us at @steppingfwdministries across all platforms!

Disclaimer:

SouthernSoul Chats and Stepping Forward Ministries are not a church, pastoralauthority, or licensed counseling service. While we aim to equip and encourageyou through biblical truth and personal testimonies, all content shared is forspiritual encouragement and educational purposes only. By listening, youacknowledge that you engage with this content voluntarily and accept fullresponsibility for how you apply it in your life.

This week, the tables are turned! For our summer series finale of Stories of Faith, Leah Dyer steps in ashost and interviews me for a special three-year catch-up on Stepping ForwardMinistries. Together, we look back at how God has grown this ministry, theincredible ways He’s shown up over the past three years, and what’s ahead as westep forward in faith. Join us for a heartfelt reflection on God’sfaithfulness, the lessons learned, and the vision He’s placed before us.

Please note: We may share links toexternal resources for your convenience. However, this does not imply fullendorsement of the entire site, author, or organization. The views expressedmay differ from our own.

Show Resources:

https://www.steppingfwd.org

Your Support Matters:

Thispodcast is a branch of Stepping Forward Ministries, a Houston based 501 c3nonprofit. Our mission is to use the unwavering truths in the Word of God toteach, equip, and empower people to StepFWD in their relationship with Christ.One of the ways we do that is through this podcast! If you'd like to know moreabout us please visit www.steppingfwd.org

We'dlove for you to provide feedback on how we can continue to bring you compellingcontent that matters to you. Your stories and thoughts are important to us. Webelieve that faith in action extends beyond our podcast, and together, we canmake a difference. Reach out via Social Media (Steppingfwdministries) orat www.steppingfwd.org today! 

Wantto connect, support, or take a step of faith? Whether you have a story toshare, want to sponsor our podcast, support the mission, or learn how to followJesus—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s put faith into action together!

👉Click here to connect with us. Don’t forget to add us on your socialmedia accounts! You can find us at @steppingfwdministries across all platforms!

Disclaimer:

SouthernSoul Chats and Stepping Forward Ministries are not a church, pastoralauthority, or licensed counseling service. While we aim to equip and encourageyou through biblical truth and personal testimonies, all content shared is forspiritual encouragement and educational purposes only. By listening, youacknowledge that you engage with this content voluntarily and accept fullresponsibility for how you apply it in your life.

In this week's episode of Southern Soul Chats as part of our summer series Stories of Faith, we sit down with Arnold Gacita, the founder of Petra Automotive and Petra Cares, to hear his inspiring journey from Cuba to the United States. Arnold shares how his faith has been the cornerstone of his success, guiding him through the struggles of his early life and shaping his vision for both his business and nonprofit.

Arnold also opens up about the mission of Petra Cares—empowering vulnerable youth, especially those transitioning out of foster care—and how God has directed his steps in building this impactful organization. From overcoming challenges to expanding the nonprofit's reach, Arnold’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith in action.

We also explore how Arnold’s faith influences his work in the automotive industry and his podcast, Wheels, Deals, and Meals. You won't want to miss this heartening conversation filled with real-life stories, faith-driven decisions, and a reminder that with God, all things are possible.

Please note: We may share links to external resources for your convenience. However, this does not imply full endorsement of the entire site, author, or organization. The views expressed may differ from our own.

Show Resources:

https://youtube.com/@wheelsdealsandmeals?si=GLNlI5mtZDS6A9yj

https://petra-cares.org/

Your Support Matters:

This podcast is a branch of Stepping Forward Ministries, a Houston based 501 c3 nonprofit. Our mission is to use the unwavering truths in the Word of God to teach, equip, and empower people to StepFWD in their relationship with Christ. One of the ways we do that is through this podcast! If you'd like to know more about us please visit www.steppingfwd.org

We'd love for you to provide feedback on how we can continue to bring you compelling content that matters to you. Your stories and thoughts are important to us. We believe that faith in action extends beyond our podcast, and together, we can make a difference. Reach out via Social Media (Steppingfwdministries) or at www.steppingfwd.org today! 

Want to connect, support, or take a step of faith? Whether you have a story to share, want to sponsor our podcast, support the mission, or learn how to follow Jesus—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s put faith into action together!

👉 Click here to connect with us. Don’t forget to add us on your social media accounts! You can find us at @steppingfwdministries across all platforms!

Disclaimer:

Southern Soul Chats and Stepping Forward Ministries are not a church, pastoral authority, or licensed counseling service. While we aim to equip and encourage you through biblical truth and personal testimonies, all content shared is for spiritual encouragement and educational purposes only. By listening, you acknowledge that you engage with this content voluntarily and accept full responsibility for how you apply it in your life.

Today’s guest is Allison Nance, a woman whose life and words speak deeply of surrender and steadfast faith. From a vibrant career in fine dining and special events across two continents to preparing for the mission field in Japan—plans that were suddenly altered by illness—Allison and her husband, Zach, have walked through seasons of uncertainty with hearts fixed on God.

Through every high and low, Allison proclaims the goodness of God.

She’s also a gifted writer and worshiper—author of her debut novel Deep Cries Out released July 16, 2025—and someone who knows what it means to hold tightly to hope when the path forward feels unclear. In this episode, we talk about what happens when deep calls to deep—how faith is shaped in the fire, how God often leads us down roads we wouldn’t have chosen, and how His faithfulness shows up in the waiting.

Whether you’re in a season of surrender or searching for encouragement, this one will stir your heart.

Please note: We may share links to external resources for your convenience. However, this does not imply full endorsement of the entire site, author, or organization. The views expressed may differ from our own.

Show Resources:

https://www.allisonrnance.com/books

https://www.instagram.com/allisonrnance/

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/231717447

Audio Clip from “Deep Cries Out”

Your Support Matters:

This podcast is a branch of Stepping Forward Ministries, a Houston-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to using the unwavering truths of God’s Word to teach, equip, and empower people to step forward in their relationship with Christ. One of the ways we fulfill this mission is through this podcast! To learn more about us, visit www.steppingfwd.org.

Want to connect, support, or take a step of faith? Whether you have a story to share, want to sponsor our podcast, support the mission, or learn how to follow Jesus—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s put faith into action together!

👉 Click here to connect with us. Don’t forget to add us on your social media accounts! You can find us at @steppingfwdministries across all platforms!

Disclaimer:

Southern Soul Chats and Stepping Forward Ministries are not a church, pastoral authority, or licensed counseling service. While we aim to equip and encourage you through biblical truth and personal testimonies, all content shared is for spiritual encouragement and educational purposes only. By listening, you acknowledge that you engage with this content voluntarily and accept full responsibility for how you apply it in your life.