Mama Bear Apologetics

In this episode, we tackle a hot-button question that’s tripping up Christians left and right: Can Christians judge? And if so, how do we do it well and teach our kids to do the same? We dive into this by unpacking the recent backlash against Chip and Joanna Gaines for featuring a homosexual couple on their new show and Chip's comments that Christians are part of a "judge first, understand never" culture. We explore what Scripture actually says about judgment—particularly looking at Matthew 7:1 and John 7:24—and clarify that while we aren't called to condemn (only God does that), we are absolutely called to correct and warn out of love and humility. Misinterpreting this can silence the gospel and cripple the Church.We lay out five practical steps we can use to judge rightly: being theologically sound, restoration-focused, seasoned with salt, consistent in word and deed, and confident in Christ. We also walk through how to equip our kids to do this in their own lives with discernment and boldness. Because let’s face it—our kids are swimming in a culture that’s trying to disciple them before we do. If we don’t teach them to judge rightly, the world will teach them not to judge at all. So buckle up, Mama Bears—we’re going deep on biblical discernment and how to raise kids who can stand firm in their faith without compromising truth.​Main Points CoveredMisuse of Scripture on Judgment (Matthew 7:1)Difference Between Judgment vs. CondemnationCultural Compromise and the Gaines' ControversyFive Steps for Judging Rightly:Teaching Children to Stand Firm in FaithCounterfeit Christianity and Progressive TheologyImportance of Context in Scripture InterpretationEmpowering Empathetic Children Against Cultural ManipulationResources & Organizations MentionedScriptures:Matthew 7:1, 3–6John 7:24Romans 14:4Colossians 2:8; 4:6Ephesians 6:11–182 Timothy 1:7; 3:16–17; 4:1–51 Peter 3:15John 15:18–19Other Resources:Fallacy Detective – a book to help children recognize faulty logicBiblical Hermeneutics: 5 Biblical Interpretation questions every mama needs to know.How to Read Your Bible Well - Episode of Mama Bear ApologeticsParenting Prodigals - Episode of Mama Bear ApologeticsOur SponsorsVoetberg Music Academy: When planning your school year this year, one thing you don’t have to worry about is taking your kids to music lessons. Voetberg Music Academy buys you 30 minutes of free time, instead of one more thing on your to-do list. Visit: voetbergmusicacademy.com and use code MAMABEAR20 to get 20% off an encounter with the Voetberg Method Experience.—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Welcome back, Mama Bears—and this week, we’re tagging in the Papa Bears! In part two of our conversation with Shane Winnings (Army vet, former cop, and now CEO of Promise Keepers), we go full throttle into what it means for men to lead their families biblically—as protector, provider, and priest. Spoiler alert: this isn’t just about paying the bills or owning a shotgun. We’re talking spiritual warfare, intentional discipleship, and standing between your kids and cultural chaos.Shane pulls zero punches as he calls men to reject passivity and step into their God-given role. We cover why Sunday school isn’t enough, why your kid’s screen time might be your biggest enemy, and why discipling the next generation can’t be outsourced. Whether you're a dad, hoping to be one, or you're a spiritual dad, this one is full of incredible practical and empowering advice.​Main Points CoveredThe Threefold Call for Men: Shane outlines how men must lead as providers (physically), protectors (spiritually and culturally), and priests (discipling their families in the Word).The Father’s Impact: A father’s spiritual presence directly influences a family’s spiritual direction and resilience.Discipling Beyond the Home: Men are called to disciple not only their own children but young men in their communities.The Cultural Battle for Identity: Shane emphasizes the spiritual war being waged on identity and the need for godly men to fight for truth.Intentional Parenting: Passive parenting leads to cultural discipleship. Dads must lead actively in conversation, protection, and spiritual teaching.The Church and Education: Shane challenges the assumption that Christian environments alone will shape kids and stresses the importance of discipling at home regardless of school choice.How to Engage Practically: From Bible reading to conversations around cultural issues, spiritual fatherhood is both spiritual and strategic.Resources & Organizations MentionedPromise KeepersBook by Shane Winnings: Your Next Leap of FaithFollow Shane WinningsYoutubeInstagramEpisode 114 - Raising Gender Healthy Boys with Ricky CheletteProverbs 22:6 (train up a child)Ephesians 5 (washing your wife in the Word)Romans 12:2, John 14:6 (the truth)Matthew 10:16 (wise as serpents, innocent as doves)Unfamiliar VocabularyIndoctrination: Teaching someone to accept a set of beliefs without question—can be used positively (discipling in truth) or negatively (brainwashing in lies).Priestly Role: Spiritually leading one’s family, similar to how a priest intercedes between people and God. In a family, it means guiding in prayer, Scripture, and spiritual growth.—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

This month, we're turning the spotlight on our Papa Bears—and what better way to kick it off than with Shane Winnings, the new CEO of Promise Keepers! In this episode, we dive into Shane’s powerful testimony—from military life and law enforcement to full-time ministry—and his heart for helping men stand firm in their God-given identity. We talk about the challenges facing men today, the spiritual attacks on biblical masculinity, and how the church (and us mamas!) can partner in equipping and encouraging the men in our lives. Shane shares real, practical insight on discipleship, marriage, and how community can restore purpose and fight back against isolation. So grab your mug and buckle in—this one’s a rally cry for strong, godly men and the families who stand behind them!Main Topics DiscussedShane Winnings’ testimony: Army, law enforcement, and the call to ministryThe decline of biblical masculinity and cultural confusion around manhoodThe role of men as priests, providers, and protectorsChallenges facing fathers and husbands in today's cultureThe importance of male discipleship and intentional mentorshipWhat wives can do to support their husbands spirituallyHow the local church can better equip menThe epidemic of loneliness among men—and how community changes everythingPractical solutions for connecting men through Promise KeepersBiblical partnership in marriage and mutual submissionResources & Organizations MentionedPromise KeepersWebsite: www.promisekeepers.orgOvercomers Zoom Bible Study: promisekeepers.org/overcomersBook by Shane Winnings: Your Next Leap of FaithFollow Shane WinningsYoutubeInstagramThanks To Our SponsorsAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Hey Mama Bears! In this special episode, we’re lightening things up with a hilarious and heartfelt collection of real-life “mom fails” and kid shenanigans straight from our own community. From toddlers cleaning toilets with sriracha to spontaneous airport throw-up disasters (yes, really), this episode is all about laughing through the chaos and remembering God’s grace in the middle of motherhood mayhem. We wrap it up with a powerful reminder from Proverbs 31 and a sweet prayer to send you into summer with joy, encouragement, and a whole lotta hope.Main Points CoveredHilarious “Cub Tales” from Real Moms: Listener-submitted stories about sriracha-cleaning toddlers, gambling third graders, airport barf, and more.Encouragement for the Everyday Mama: A reminder that perfection isn’t the goal—faithfulness is.Spiritual Reset: A fresh reading of Proverbs 31 that shifts the focus from Pinterest perfection to godly perseverance.Mama Bear Pep Talk: You’re doing ministry in your home—whether your kids are flourishing or wandering.Summer Preview: June is all about building up our Papa Bears—don’t miss the two-part series with Shane Winnings from Promise Keepers.People and Resources MentionedProverbs 31:27–31Thanks to our SponsorAqua TruAquaTru comes with a 30-day money back guarantee and can make a great Father's Day Gift! Head to aquatru.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to 20% off! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Hey Mama Bears! In this special episode, we’re turning the tables a bit. Instead of pouring out more theology and apologetics for parenting (don’t worry—it’s coming!), we’re pouring into you. We sat down with Kate Henderson and Rebecca Bradford from Gather Moms, a gospel-centered ministry equipping moms to be intentional, supported, and rooted in biblical truth. We talked about everything from the overwhelm of modern motherhood to practical ways the church and family can support mamas in the trenches. Whether you’re knee-deep in diapers or navigating teenage hormones, this episode will encourage your heart, remind you you’re not alone, and give you a vision for how mom-to-mom discipleship can shape families—and the church—for generations to come.Main Points CoveredThe Story Behind Gather MomsInformation Overload & Mom GuiltThe Power of CommunityTime-Starved and TiredHow churches can champion moms through multi-generational mentorship and childcare.Family Dynamics: How our marriages affect how we parent and live out our calling.Hope for Single Moms: Why spiritual family is essential when physical family is missing.How to Start Your Own Gather GroupPeople and Resources MentionedGatherMoms.com – Start or find a group, get free resourcesRightNow Media – Home to Gather Moms’ three video series:Family ValuesMom StrugglesMoms, Let’s Talk: Conversations You Must HaveGather Moms PodcastMaking the Most of Today Journal Parenting by Paul David TrippHabits of the Household by Justin Whitmel EarleyMom Set Free by Jeannie Cunnion—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Can modesty actually be an act of worship? And what does that even look like in a world where “less is more” seems to be the fashion motto? In this episode, we dive into the ever-relevant and controversial topic of modesty—but not in a finger-waggy, rulebook kind of way. We’re talking about modesty as a form of worship that honors both God and the bodies He gave us. From 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 to 1 Peter 3:3-4, we unpack what Scripture actually says about how we present ourselves—especially in an era where TikTok trends and Insta-influencers are shaping how our daughters think about beauty and worth.We also tackle those messy misconceptions about clothing and modesty, and how fashion can either reflect our faith or blur the lines. And for the moms raising girls in a culture that’s marketing crop tops and barely-there outfits to 8-year-olds? This conversation is for you. We'll look at how modesty has been both overemphasized in purity culture and undervalued in modern culture, and offer some real-life tips for teaching modesty without shame or legalism. Because guess what? You can raise daughters who are confident, stylish, and rooted in Christ.​Main Points Covered(00:05) - Role of modesty for Christian parents(09:21) - Cultural influence on modesty standards(18:46) - Cultural lies about modesty (or lack of modesty)(25:59) - How does modesty translate to clothing?People and Resources MentionedBody Shape Modesty QuizHelp with wardrobe resourcesSeasonal AnalysisSeasonal ColorsTalking Back to Purity Culture by Rachel Joy WelcherOur Bodies Tell God’s Story by Christopher WestMama Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality by Hillary Ferrer and Amy DavisonChristian Modesty and the Public Undressing of America by Jeff Pollard1 Corinthians 6:19-201 Peter 3:3-4Romans 6:131 Timothy 2:92 Timothy 3:16Romans 12:21 Timothy 2:9-10Proverbs 7Galatians 5:16-19Proverbs 31—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Hey Mama Bears! In this episode, Hilary and Amy tackle a growing trend we’ve seen online: calling out churches in a way that crosses from accountability into straight-up bashing. One post in particular claimed that churches without special needs ministries are leading people away from God—and whew, we’ve got thoughts. We unpack the difference between genuine concerns and unfair criticism, especially when it comes to things like flashy worship, big congregations, and limited resources. Are we pointing out sin, or just style differences?We want to explore this topic with grace, wisdom and discernment. So we invite you to ROAR through the claims made in the article we open with. With our usual dose of humor, biblical grounding, and mama bear honesty, we talk emotional maturity, grace-filled critique, and how to have real conversations that build up the Body of Christ instead of tearing it down.​Main Points CoveredWhy Everyone’s Suddenly Mad at the ChurchWhen Critique Turns into a TantrumCalling Out vs. Tearing DownMinistry Ain’t Easy—Show Some Grace!Accountability or Condemnation?How to Call Things Out Without Being a JerkBuilding a Culture of Healthy AccountabilityCheering for the Church While Still Being HonestThanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Hey Mama Bears! Today, we’re tackling some big misconceptions about the Holy Spirit. He’s not just a mystical force or a gut feeling—He’s a person, fully God, with wisdom, and power. And getting this right matters! A.W. Tozer and R.A. Torrey remind us that a faulty view of the Holy Spirit can lead to serious theological errors. So, let’s dive into Scripture—Acts, Romans, and Galatians—to see who He really is and what that means for us.Now, what’s the real evidence of the Spirit at work? It’s not just spiritual gifts or dramatic experiences—it’s the fruit of the Spirit (yep, even patience in the middle of toddler tantrums). He’s our Advocate, Comforter, and the One who intercedes when we don’t have the words. And when we look at Stephen in Acts, we see the kind of bold faith the Spirit empowers—exactly what we want for our kids.So, how do we teach our kids about the Holy Spirit? We’ll break it down into everyday conversations that make sense, tackling tough questions (like the “unforgivable sin”) with biblical clarity. Because theology isn’t just for scholars—it’s for mamas raising the next generation of disciples.Main Points CoveredUnderstanding the Holy Spirit Through ScriptureThe Role of the Holy SpiritPresence of the Holy SpiritHow to Teach Our Kids About the Holy SpiritUnfamiliar VocabularyOmnipotence: An attribute belonging solely to God. The property of being all-powerful.Omniscience: An attribute belonging solely to God. The property of being all-knowing.Omnipresence: An attribute belonging solely to God. The property of being ever-present.Blasphemy: to speak with contempt about God or to be defiantly irreverent.Unforgivable Sin: Complete hardening of one’s heart and rejection of God, belittling and mockery of the world of the HS unto deathPeople and Resources MentionedGrasping God’s Word by Duvall & HaysTheology for Today by Elmer TownsWomen of Faith DevotionalHappy Lies - Melissa Dougherty Josh Howerton SermonVisit our website for a list of Scriptures—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Hey Mama bears (and Papa Bears too!), let’s talk about something super important—how we read the Bible. It’s not just about opening the pages and hoping for a divine light bulb moment. Nope! If we’re not careful, we can end up twisting Scripture to say what we want it to say instead of what God actually meant.That’s why we’re diving into biblical interpretation—what it is, why it matters, and how it impacts both our faith and our kids’. We’re navigating the difference between Exegesis (drawing out what Scripture actually says) and Eisegesis (reading our own ideas into Scripture). The truth is, we all have biases, and if we don’t recognize them, we might end up just looking for verses to back up what we already believe instead of letting God shape our beliefs in the first place.And let’s be real—sometimes we get stuck in our own echo chambers. That’s why we need honest, truth-loving friends who challenge us to see Scripture clearly, even when it’s uncomfortable. (Yes, that means being open to correction.) We’ll also unpack how to find theological principles in Scripture and apply them to life today—because let’s face it, human nature hasn’t changed much since biblical times. The same struggles, the same need for God. Our goal? To teach our kids how to read the Bible wisely, grounding their faith in truth, not trends.So grab your coffee, cozy up, and join us as we chat about how biblical interpretation can shape not only our personal faith but also the next generation. Because if we don’t teach them how to handle Scripture rightly, the world will be more than happy to teach them how to do it wrong. Let’s get equipped, Mama Bears!​Main Points CoveredExegesis vs EisegesisHow does what’s being said relate to the original audience?What are the differences between the original audience and us?What is the theological principle within the text?How does this principle fit within the rest of the Bible?How should christians today live out this principle?What if we disagree?People and Resources MentionedGrasping God’s Word by Duvall & HaysBible HubLogos Bible Study Software2 Timothy 2:15John 16:13—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

In this episode, we’re exploring the intersection of Christian values and politics in a divided world. How do we apply our faith in the political realm? We’ll discuss the importance of humility in conversations, especially with teens who are forming their own views.We’ll also examine the roles of government and church in issues like border policies through the lens of Scripture, looking at Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Peter. And we discuss essential rules and tools for how to navigate these, very oftentimes, difficult conversations with those you disagree with — emphasizing the importance of clear definitions, humility, and empathy in discussions. Drawing on tactics from historical movements, we’ll discuss how specific, actionable goals are more effective than vague ones. We hope to remind you to stay grounded in faith, engage in face-to-face conversations, and approach these issues with wisdom and grace.​Main Points CoveredNavigating Christian Principles and PoliticsGovernment, Church, and Morality DebateSpecificity vs. Generalization in DiscourseNavigating Emotional Responses in DialogueSeeking Truth and Humility in DialogueBuilding Relationships Through Respectful DialoguePeople and Resources MentionedBorder StatsBasic Requirements for Unlawful Immigrants Rules for Radicals by Saul AlinskyActs 5:29Romans 13:1-51 Peter 2:13-17Romans 13:1-71 Timothy 2:1-3Ephesians 6:12Thanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Join us in this episode as we explore the insights from Wesley Huff's impactful interviews, notably his appearances on Joe Rogan's podcast as well as a pivotal discussion with Billy Carson, hosted by Mark Maynard. We highlight how Huff's composed and respectful defense of faith amidst hostility serves as a remarkable model for teaching children critical thinking and biblical love. On this episode, we will explore five things we can practice in becoming better apologists, emphasizing the importance of preparing for and engaging in challenging conversations.We will wrap up with how parents can effectively engage with their children on matters of faith and spiritual growth, encouraging a model of Christ-like interactions with those holding different views. We hope this episode equips you in training your children in apologetics and preparing them for having a defense for their faith.​Main Points CoveredOverview of the Joe Rogan and Billy Carson interviewsHermeneutics mattersHonor each person’s Imago Dei while addressing falsehoods and mistakesDon’t lose sight of the main thingHumility in correcting errorsPrepare for pushbackEncouragement and tips for parentsUnfamiliar VocabularyHermeneutics - The study and interpretation of biblical texts.Textual Criticism - The scholarly study and analysis of manuscripts to determine the original text.Apocryphal - Referring to writings or reports not considered genuine or canonical.Pseudepigraphal - Texts written by unknown authors who falsely attribute their work to someone more famous.Imago Dei - A theological term, Latin for "Image of God," used to describe the belief that humans are created in God's image.Ziggurats - Ancient Mesopotamian structures that resemble a terraced step pyramid with a flat top.Exegesis - Critical explanation or interpretation of a text, especially scripture.Scribal Culture - The practices and norms associated with the copying and transmission of texts by scribes.People and Resources MentionedWes Huff & Billy Carson InterviewJoe Rogan & Wesley Huff InterviewMark Minard response to Billy Carson attacksGrasping God’s Word by Scott Duvall and Daniel HaysSpiritual Warfare with Dr. Karl Payne Podcast1 Peter 3:15Colossians 4:6Ephesians 4:2Proverbs 19:11Ecclesiastes 7:9John 14:12-28 Thanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Join us as we kick off the new year with a conversation about prayer, featuring Julie Loos, co-author of "Honest Prayers for Mama Bears." We explore the challenges that mothers face, such as the guilt from busy schedules and the fear of missing opportunities to teach children about prayer. Julie's story is a testament to the power of prayer in personal faith and spiritual warfare, offering encouragement to mothers eager to strengthen their prayer lives and pass on a legacy of faith.Throughout the episode, we discuss the unique nature of each child's faith journey and the importance of tailoring spiritual guidance to individual personalities. Reflecting on Proverbs 22:6, we consider how to train children in ways that align with their strengths. By modeling prayer habits and encouraging creative expressions such as journaling and art, we can engage children in a meaningful connection with God. Whether you're a parent looking to enhance your family's prayer practices or seeking tools for teaching kids to pray, this episode offers invaluable tools and insights in how to incorporate prayer regularly in your family rhythms.​Main Points CoveredTeaching Kids Intentional PrayerNavigating Prayer and Daily ChallengesWalking Through The Lord's PrayerStructured Family Prayer IdeasFostering Personal Prayer in ChildrenAccountability and Community in PrayerUnfamiliar VocabularySupplication: This is a form of prayer where one makes a humble and earnest request or petition to God.Intercession: This type of prayer involves praying on behalf of others. It's a form of petition for someone else's needs or issues.People and Resources MentionedVideo by The Bible ProjectEvery Moment Holy BookHonest Prayers for Mama Bears BookPray by The Daily Grace Co.Moms in Prayer WebsiteEphesians 6:18Luke 18:1Mathew 26:41Philippians 4:6Matthew 6:9-13Luke 11:2-4Matthew 6:6Thanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Have you ever faced the heart-wrenching challenge of having your child walk away from their faith? On this episode, Mary Comm joins us to share her profound journey of learning to love and relate to her adult prodigal child. With authenticity and vulnerability, Mary opens up about her own past as a prodigal, shedding light on the nuanced differences between genuine estrangement and simple familial disagreements. This episode promises a wealth of guidance for parents navigating these emotionally charged waters, especially within the Christian community. We discuss the spiritual battles faced by families, drawing wisdom from biblical stories like the prodigal son and Job. We examine how these challenges can test not only the faith of children but also of parents, particularly those serving in ministry. Feelings of shame and guilt often accompany these experiences, isolating parents and making them question their roles. By fostering openness and honesty within church communities, we hope to dismantle these barriers, providing a safe space for mutual support and healing.Our conversation also touches on the importance of setting healthy boundaries and maintaining love and compassion amidst differences. Through Mary's wisdom, we emphasize the vital role of prayer and resilience in parenting. Whether it's through modeling authentic faith or utilizing support systems like Uncommon Love Ministries, we aim to reassure parents that their role and ministry are never truly over. Join us as we offer encouragement and practical advice, demonstrating that parents can navigate the complexities of their children's paths without losing hope.Main Points CoveredWhat tools does the enemy use against parents?Navigating relationships with Prodigal ChildrenNavigating boundaries with Prodigal ChildrenPractical tips for parents of young kids.Practical tips for parents of Prodigal Children.Unfamiliar VocabularyProdigal: A child who chooses to leave or reject their family.People and Resources MentionedChrist over Culture by Andrea CrumMama Bear Apologetics BookUncommon Love MinistriesThanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

This episode of Mama Bear Apologetics takes you on a journey through the creative landscape of the new Netflix movie "Mary," directed by D.J. Caruso. Drawing inspiration from the pseudo-evangelical book of James, we dissect how this film reimagines the Christmas story, providing parents with guidance on navigating its differences from biblical accounts. Our goal is to equip you with the insights needed to foster meaningful conversations with your kids about faith, scripture, and the importance of historical and theological contexts.We consider the creative liberties taken by the filmmakers and how these narrative choices can serve as conversation starters with our kids about faith and scripture. By comparing these portrayals to traditional biblical texts, we invite families to appreciate the strength and courage of Mary and Joseph's story, often overlooked in Protestant narratives, and reflect on the film's helpful and harmful perspectives. As the Christmas season unfolds, let's consider how to engage your children in Christ-centered conversations that rise above the holiday hustle and bustle. Main Points CoveredSummary of Netflix's MaryWhat is the message of the filmGood and problematic elements of the filmHow to help kids discern the messageHow to reinforce the true message found in scriptureUnfamiliar VocabularyPseudo-evangelical: The book claims to be written by the brother of Jesus, but in fact is not.Apocryphal: Not divinely inspired and filled with historical and theological inaccuracies.People and Resources MentionedMary on NetflixMatthew 1:21Proverbs 3:5Psalm 118:8-14John 15:5Book of LukeBook of MatthewIsaiah 7:14James 1:2-4Interview by Mama's Geeky with Noa Cohen and D.J. CarusoThe Very First Noel by Exclaim EntertainmentThe Birth of Jesus depicted in the mini-series “The Bible” by Lightworkers MediaReferenced quotes found—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

Join us in this thought-provoking episode of the Mama Bear Apologetics podcast as we tackle the challenging task of discussing racism and social justice with children from a biblical perspective. We're excited to welcome our friends and esteemed guests, Krista Bontrager and Monique Duson, authors of the insightful book "Walking in Unity." Together, we explore how to communicate love, justice, and racial unity amidst today's tense political climate. We emphasize the importance of defining terms clearly and understanding their roots in social sciences, ensuring that parents and educators can engage in meaningful conversations with the younger generation.We also examine the complexities of systemic racism and the role of power in societal structures, urging critical analysis before attributing disparities solely to racism. We critique contemporary models of racial reconciliation, highlighting the biblical concept of unity through faith in Jesus, and explore the themes of identity beyond race. This discussion is designed to equip parents with the tools needed to guide their children in understanding their identity in Christ while celebrating their cultural heritage.Main Points CoveredDefining Racism and Bias BiblicallyBiblical Unity vs. Racial ReconciliationUnderstanding Identity Beyond RaceNavigating Disparities and Racial InjusticeEquipping Kids on Biblical IdentityUnfamiliar VocabularySocial Justice: the idea that everyone should have equal rights, opportunities, and treatment, regardless of their race, class, gender, sexuality, or other identity. Often accompanied with programs/legislation for advancement.Institutional/Systemic Racism: a system of policies, practices, and beliefs that results in the unfair treatment of people based on their race.Racial Reconciliation: holds many of the same tenants as anti-racism. It is a works based system aimed and unity across races and socioeconomic classes.Creation Identity: Things that are true about us, from God’s perspective, for all humans, at all times, in all places.Salvation Identity: An identity gained through putting your faith, hope, and confidence in Jesus.People and Resources MentionedVisit: centerforbiblicalunity.comBuy: Walking in UnityDownload: Center For Biblical Unity appJohn 17John 1Genesis 1-3Thanks to our SponsorAirDoctorAmericans take about 20,000 breaths a day and spend an average of 90% of their time indoors. The indoor air that we breathe can be up to 100 times MORE polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. AirDoctor is the air purifier that filters out 99.99% of dangerous contaminants so your lungs don’t have to.AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money back guarantee so if you don’t love it, just send it back for a refund, minus shipping! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code MBA and you’ll receive up to $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! Lock this special offer by using our promo code MBA at checkout!—Editing and Support by The Good Podcast Co. If you are interested in being a supporting sponsor of the show, please email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co