Summary:

In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley welcomes back Dr. S. Jonathan Murphy, senior pastor of Stonebriar Community Church and author of The Story of God and Us. Dr. Murphy shares how his book was written to give believers a clear framework for understanding the Bible from beginning to end, while also highlighting the relevance of each book for everyday life. He and Dr. Easley discuss how faith produces obedience—not through guilt or “shoulds” but through the Spirit’s work within us. 

Dr. Murphy explains how God births new desires in His people as they spend time in His Word and with Him, shifting appetites from empty pursuits to joyful obedience. Together, they explore God’s providence in everyday details, the warnings and encouragements of Malachi, and how God prepared His people for Christ even during the 400 years of silence. Dr. Murphy emphasizes that Scripture, even the often-overlooked minor prophets, speaks with direct relevance to our lives today. He closes by pointing to the believer’s eternal hope and the joy of what is to come. This episode invites listeners to delight in God’s Word, trust His providence, and live out their faith with Spirit-driven joy and anticipation.

Takeaways

• Obedience flows from Spirit-led faith, not guilt or self-effort.


• God births new desires in us as we spend time with Him.


• Daily providence shows God’s hand in ordinary life.


• The prophets remain deeply relevant for modern believers.


• Even in silence, God was preparing His people for Christ.


• Our hope grows as we glimpse the joy of eternity with Him.

Links Mentioned

The Story of God and Us by Dr. S. Jonathan Murphy

Authentic Influencer by Dr. S Jonathan Murphy 

Dr. Murphy's website

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