Bombadil's Porch: Recent Episodes

Chris Martin

We are three Christian dads trying to recover the lost art of sitting on the front porch together to building community, comradery, and taking some time to enjoy the view of God’s Word, and God’s world.

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In today's show we discuss a recent trip by the Martin family to Japan and some thoughts in the aftermath of a recent politically charged court case.

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After a few months of sitting empty, the Porch resumes with discussions of what has changed in the world, and what remains the same.

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In this episode we reflect on Christmas past and present and how the season grows sweeter year after year.

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In this episode we consider the outcome of the recent election in Spokane County. What is the distinction between tribalism and liberalism, and how does that impact the Christian faith as well as local politics? How do we keep our eyes fixed on Christ and not end up in a ditch of over-correction while navigating the changing cultural landscape?

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In this episode we consider how the command to rule the earth in Genesis finds fulfillment in Christ and application in everyday life.

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In this episode we welcome guest Amanda Jarvis - mom, editor, communication coordinator, and youth leader. We discuss a recent Gallup pole indicating that the loneliest age group is 19-29. Why are the young so lonely, and what can we do to raise resilient and connecting families?

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In this episode we discuss how diversity and unity are both expressed in the Christian faith and how that helps us think through the current issues of multi-culturalism and tolerance. We also consider how our testimony as believers can be the unique, but shared expression of Jesus Christ to all we interact with.

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In this episode we discuss the tragic display of evil and death in the recent terror attacks against Israel. How should we as Christians respond compassionately, theologically, and biblically?

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In this episode we discuss the value of working in The Trades. Caleb discusses his recent VIP hangout with traveling musicians. We investigate a recent meme involving the Roman Empire, and we affirm the power of narratives and the importance of having only one Hero in the story.

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In this episode we discuss some of the proposed tourism taglines for Spokane Valley. Send us your favorite suggestions!

We also consider how recent news and a popular mini-series have put a spotlight on the pitfalls of Christianity focused on appearances more than loving worship from the heart.

And we give Caleb a hard time for missing today's recording.


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In this episode we catch up after several weeks of being apart. Fall rhythms of life are kicking off, and there is a big change in the future for one Porch host. We also look at the decline of justice in the West and how to parent grateful children with integrity.

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Today we discussed Douglas Murray's* interesting appeal to the moral vice of acedia in attempting to explain the ills of modern society. We also looked at the biblical command not to envy, and how profoundly important this command is for our country, and for our families.

*Audio clip of Douglas Murray at the 2023 National Review Institute Ideas Summit in Washington D.C.


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Today we discussed the unfortunate tale of a janitorial mishap gone very wrong. We also discuss whether proper parenting can guarantee the salvation of our children. Finally, we look at the 9th Commandment and discuss the importance of speaking the truth in an age of snap reactions.


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In this episode we rejoice at the kindness of God on display in a recent car and pedestrians accident. We also consider the nature of stealing and how it erodes society from the illegal activities of an individual to the sometimes legal activities of governments.


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We begin after a few weeks off by hearing from Caleb who is recently returned from a trip to Italy and the Balkans.

We also discuss a recent interview with a movie actor famous for saying, "I'll be back," who, ironically, is afraid that he won't.

Finally, we consider the prohibition against adultery and how that affects more of life than just marriage.


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In this episode we discuss the nature of man and how that relates to science fiction's common theme of reducing consciousness to mere information. We also consider the next commandment in our series: do not murder.

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In this episode we take instruction from the cautionary tale of two hapless drivers in Hawaii. Caleb fills us in on an upcoming adventure overseas. Finally, we discuss the 5th Commandment, its many applications, and the surprisingly central role it plays in the fabric of civilization.

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In this episode we discuss the view that conservatives view children as property and use the role to impose authoritarianism. We also look at what Sabbath rest means for Christians today.

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In this episode we discuss at length a lament over Generation Z and what are some of the unique challenges and unique strengths of this emerging population. We also discuss two letters, including one just recently published for the first time, in which JRR Tolkien discusses why Tom Bombadil doesn't quite seem to fit into the world of Middle Earth. Finally, we discuss, perhaps debate, how the impact of the work of Jesus is to impact our attitude and view of ourselves and the general cheeriness of our outlook.

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In this episode we discuss why UFO's (UAP's) are back in limelight recently, as well as the rise of pagan symbolism in pop culture. We then continue our study through What Matters Most by looking at the third commandment.

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In this episode we give you twice the Porch as usual!

In the first hour we discuss spiritual revival and what attends it. In our second hour, we look at the Second Commandment and get into a vigorous debate about popular depictions of Jesus in contemporary media.

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In this episode we jump from paganism to intellectualism to the worldviews that entrench tribalism and thwart unity before looking to Jesus for the answer. We also continue with part 2 of our series on What Matters Most and discuss why we love the first commandment.

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In this episode we get some feedback from the Scrub Club. We also discuss the role of emotions in political discourse and the likely return of Logos over Pathos. Finally, an outline is given for some ancient approaches to discipleship that never truly get old.

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In this episode we reconnect after several weeks away. Recapping a vacation to Asia Minor serves as a good place to meander into our beloved rabbit trails.

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In this episode we discuss our tendency to legalism, intellectualism, or a life ruled by the passions. We also consider how God calls us to live with head, heart, and hands all united in worship.

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Today we shared about some of our favorite Christmas traditions and experiences, and also discussed how to make the most of the Gospel opportunities in the Christmas season.

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In this episode we learn more about one Porch host's dedication to the smelly arts and discuss the nature of societal ingratitude.


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In this episode we discuss two voicemails related to the issue of public education and give our perspectives.


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In this episode, the Porch reprises its annual coming to fisticuffs over the best way for Christians to think about Halloween. It gets a little scary.


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In this episode we hear a report from a recent conference about black robe regiments. We also discuss a recent school board meeting about new curriculum and the chance for local parents to make their voices heard.


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In this episode we discuss concern over a recent almost-policy of a major financial institution. We then look at the advantages and disadvantages of establishing parallel institutions in a society. Finally, we consider how Christians can navigate the injunction to be in the world but not of it in a land of Gospel opportunities and crumbling culture.

P.S. We also forget to congratulate Nate on his recent birthday. Happy birthday, Nate.


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In this episode we reflect on the recent wedding and offer thoughts on helpful principles for early in marriage. We also consider how to intentionally love our neighbors with the right kind of agenda, and without the wrong kind of agenda.


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In this episode we glean some wisdom for husbands from 1913, discuss the stakes of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, and consider the lessons of Camp Hope in Spokane.


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In this episode we discuss an act of bravery in an unlikely place. We consider how to encourage similar courage in our own families.


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In this episode we discuss how the principles of wisdom are inescapable in the course of world events. We also discuss how we can encourage wisdom in the decisions made by those in our own homes.


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In today's episode we catch up after a couple weeks away on various family vacations. We discuss the fun of music concerts on a perfect So-Cal summer evening, parenting in the age of social media influencers, and observations made in the mountains of Switzerland.


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In this episode we discuss a biblical framework for evaluating civilization. How should Christians think of their place in a civilization, especially one like the present, in which old norms are giving way to new challenges and Gospel proclamation remains a paramount urgency?


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In this episode we talk through the three most prominent options for education today (public, private, home) and evaluate some relative strengths and weaknesses.


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In this episode we discuss a new study declaring the minimum income needed for happiness in the state of Washington. We also look at new policies from the mayor of Spokane attempting to curtail the homeless encampments in the city and how homelessness can be most effectively combatted before it starts.


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In this episode we consider the advice of a psychologist regarding the having of children. We also discuss thoughts on how to evaluate successful or unsuccessful adulting.


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In this episode we discuss the recent case of an A.I. that at least one expert believes has become sentient. What is a Christian view of A.I., how does that relate to authentic relationships, and how do we prepare for a future in which simulated souls compete with real people for the affection of our children.


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The Porch welcomes Nate back to the USA after a trip abroad to Israel. We discuss some of his many adventures abroad in the land o the Bible.


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In this episode we consider a question about the difference in purpose and meaning for infant baptisms vs. baby dedications. We also respond to another question about how our theology accounts for evil such as seen in Uvalde, TX.


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In this 100th episode we start by following up on our previous discussion about marriage and meander from there to a variety of related topics. Also, do you know what sound frogs make in Japan?


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In this episode we discuss the unexpected outcome of the recent Kentucky Derby, and the double standards regarding the alternative use of "horse" medicines. Finally, we consider the steady delay of marriage in our culture and what advice we would give to those who are marriage themselves.


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In this episode we discuss the recent leak of a preliminary Supreme Court decision that would overturn Roe v. Wade. What is the significance of this nearly half-century old legislation, and how should Christians be thinking about it today?


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In this episode we consider the curious case of accordion-wielding gangsters in Africa and the wide-ranging reaction to Elon Musk's acquisition of social media giant Twitter.


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In this episode we discuss a viral church message from a prominent Senator delivered on Easter. We also note a recent observation that Disney movies have slowly eclipsed the notion of a villain in their movies and consider the implications.


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In this episode we address a supposed Spokane-style pizza going viral online as well as consider Will Smith's slap heard round the world and how it has brought discussions of masculinity back to the forefront of the cultural conversation.


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In this episode Chris welcomes his wife Izumi to the podcast for a discussion on how we can glorify God in the parts of life that don't seem particularly glorious.


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In this episode we catch up with Nate's adventure in the city of New Orleans and discuss the under-appreciated virtue of magnanimity.


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In this special episode, the Porch welcomes Cara Foote, twin sister of Caleb Klontz, for an interview on their birthday and a reflection on what God has been doing in their lives.


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In this episode we explore a number of topics that have been on our mind recently. C.S. Lewis reminds us that in the Bible judges were not the sort to wear starched wigs. We also get an update on the path of the Doehle family towards adoption and how we can help support them. The war in Ukraine and questions about the end times is discussed and we are encouraged to check out the music of Ronnie Martin, formerly of Joy Electric.

Oh, and we tease a very special guest speaker who will join us next week on the birthday of a very special Porch host...


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In this episode we discuss the unfolding conflict in the Ukraine, including opportunities to help here and here. We also go on a rabbit-trail regarding custom computers and the joy of DIY.


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In this episode we discuss Christian etiquette when traveling abroad and our expectations and concerns about the upcoming Lord of the Rings series. Oh, we are also interrupted by a fire.


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In this episode, after a brief rabbit trail on beards, we look at the future of science in the age of super computers and the difference between incomprehensible AI and the Christian faith. We also pose the question, "If you were president, would you boycott this year's Olympic Games?"


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Join us today as we interview Dr. Dave Sutton and Dr. Blake McKinley whose book, The Grandpa's Manual, has just been published. Listen as we put the pig on the table, remember that the proof of the pudding is in the eating, and are reminded of the timeless value of grandpas. To order your own copy of The Grandpa's Manual, click here.


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In this episode we discuss the incredible feat that is the James Webb telescope and how such instruments enable our worship to deepen. We also look at the rapidly expanding development in Spokane Valley and consider what it takes to love a community successfully as it grows.


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Season three of the porch launches alongside 2022. We look briefly backwards at 2021, give Caleb a new nickname, and talk about the similarities between Covid and throwing a rock in the air.


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In this final episode of Season 2 here on the Porch, we look back at the Time Magazine's Person of the Year selections from 2006 to the present. We consider the lasting impact (or lack thereof) of each choice and how it has shaped the world we live in. A big thank you to all of our listeners who have joined us this season! From Chris, Caleb, and Nate, we wish you all a Merry Christmas and look forward to joining up again on the Porch in the new year.


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In this episode we consider how narrowly our country escaped including our daughters in the military draft, and how we would respond if our daughters were drafted in the future. We also discuss how the pursuit of gender equity is affecting local athletics and where such trends are likely to end. Finally, we broaden our view to ask what the bigger scheme is that our culture keeps falling for in many areas of civilization.


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In this episode we discuss the current direct challenge to the infamous Roe v. Wade decision playing out in the Supreme Court.


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In this episode we discuss Thanksgiving turkeys and traditions as well as how to deal with conversational landmines that can interrupt a day of feasting.


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In this episode we discuss the ongoing challenge of society's lack of confidence in its institutions and the particular questions this poses to Christians trying to be biblically faithful.


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In this episode we welcome Ben Doehle back into the studio and center our discussion around three questions. First, we discuss our favorite family Christmas movies. Second, we ask if the concept of self-forgiveness is biblical. Third, we look at a baseball player retiring at the top of his career to spend more time with family.


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In this episode we discuss a pair of recent commercials that illustrate the incredible lengths corporations will go to in the pursuit of overturning cultural norms and selling snack foods.


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In this episode we consider another excellent question from a listener about the potential dangers and risk to a family of opening our homes to care for those who need Gospel love, but bring unique brokenness with them.


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In this episode we consider at length a question about the biblical grounds for intentionally exposing children to a degree of risk in parenting. We also take a minute to see how many trendy words Nate is familiar with, and close with a few interesting observations on a recent look at preaching in America put out by The New Yorker.


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Join us for this special interview with Toby Erickson, author of the book Raise Your Own Dang Kids! It's a fascinating conversation covering a lifetime's perspective on education, child-rearing, cake, and culture. A big thanks to Toby for giving his time to share this conversation with us.


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Back together again after a week of travel, we discuss the idea that a one trillion dollar coin could solve our economic woes. We also share theological and culinary lessons learned from attending the G3 Conference in Atlanta, GA.


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Why do nations need borders, and how does this impact how we lead our families? Is Llama spit the answer to the pandemic? Where does Caleb buy his scented candles, and how do massive corporations manipulate human behavior to get just a little more of your time? These questions, and their accompanying rabbit trails, make for an interesting conversation, here on the Porch.


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In this episode we consider the likelihood that computer algorithms may "know" us better than our best and closest friends. We also discuss why real relationships are so vital and must be preserved in a future of digital dominance and close-to-real-looking VR.


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In this episode we began by discussing the historic but gaffe-overshadowed US-UK-AU agreements and how to think through when it's time to give up on recalls and move.


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In this episode we listened live to President Biden present his new 6-pronged Covid response plan, and then hit record and started talking. It turns out we all had some thoughts.


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In this episode we welcome back Caleb and discuss the beautiful new High School in the Spokane County school district. We also discuss the incredible engineering feat of tunneling ants. Finally, we consider the national uproar surrounding the Supreme Court's decision not to make a decision about an abortion law.


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In this episode we discuss the issue that seems to be on everyone's mind right now - the unfolding tragedy in Afghanistan. We try to understand how this came about, what lessons we can learn, how we can pray, and a few ways to get involved in helping.


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In this episode we look at a lawsuit highlighting the emergence of new business models in the entertainment industry and also discuss why the Olympics don't seem to have the magic they once did.


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Join us as we end up in an extended discussion of how intentional relationships can help us grow in becoming like Christ outside of a narrow model of books studies and formal meetings.


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After a few weeks off of The Porch, we reunite to share lessons learned while traveling the country, the mindset that makes you middle class, a clone army of bees, and a timely book review. Additionally, since we couldn't help but chat far too long after being away, we've indicated where you can break this single omnibus podcast into three more bite-size listening adventures.

Alternatively, you can turn it off when you get bored.


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In this episode we experiment with a new format. We begin looking at an unanimous but narrow ruling by the Supreme Court in favor of Catholic adoption agencies. Then we move to the past to discuss the lasting impact of Jean Jacques Rousseau and his twisted Peter-Pan existence. Finally, we consider a popular A. W. Tozer meme about the church and the importance of internal and external expressions of our faith.


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In this episode we respond to a question from listener John Dejong asking how we approach preserving the innocence of our children in an internet connected home. We also consider the responsibility to not only speak doctrinally accurate truths, but also live them out.


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In this episode we look back at the true story of six boys marooned on a deserted island for over a year. We also chuckle at a new program in Washington State offering "joints for jabs" while Caleb tries to get us back on topic. Finally, we consider the coming automation revolution in response to rising minimum wages.


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In this episode we see what happens when Nate is around to keep us on track. We look at the rise of self-defense training in Bolivia for women who suffer domestic violence. We also look at a neat trick Zebra Fish have for avoiding radiation damage, and how that might help us travel in space. Turning to Spain, we discuss the wisdom of a new series of stamps designed for raise awareness for systemic racism. China unveils a new multi-modal AI chip, and we have some concerns. Speaking of concerns, the LGBTQ+ agenda is front and center in our culture this month and also in popular children's shows. Finally, we consider advice for Millennials facing middle age and feeling some regrets.


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In this episode we discuss the place of Israel in our theology and how that relates to current events. We also look at a fascinating documentary about a brave family bringing hope to war-torn parts of the world, and the movement they have given rise to.


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In this episode we try our best to get by without Caleb for a week. We discussed the mask as a moral symbol. We also looked at the charge of tree inequality in America. Finally, we considered several other stories of note, including the sad connection between leaders of Hamas in Israel and professors of history in America.


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In this episode we look to Isaiah for a lesson in resting during scary times. We also discuss the value of formal church membership. Finally, we consider a book by Tim Chester encouraging us to use meals as a key part of ministering to others.


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In this episode we discuss the renewed violence in the land of Israel and the distorted coverage seen in the West. We also discuss the ordination of women pastors by one of the largest churches in the SBC. Finally we briefly look at some practical first aid supplies for the summer and discuss how prepared is too prepared.


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In this episode we discuss the seasons of darkness that often accompany seasons of light. We also have an extended discussion of That Hideous Strength and The Abolition of Man by C. S. Lewis.


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In this episode we try to guess where a giant Chinese rocket may crash down to earth. We also look at a CNN list of recommended Mother's Day presents and not the distinct lack of wokeness. Finally, we consider a study on the key features of parenting that help pass down the religious convictions of parents to their children.


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In this episode Caleb and Chris make do in the absence of Nate. First we discuss the noticeable trend in young workers simply not showing up for their jobs. We also look at the rise and fall of ingenuity and the place for thought, mastery, risk taking, and creative problem solving in life. Finally, we try and fail to recall our previously identified third topic and mercifully end the episode (a little) early.


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In this episode we try to understand where curiosity fits into the life of a Christian. We also consider what it actually means to be holy as God is holy. Finally, in a Porch exclusive, we learn the unexpected connection between a heavy metal band and a popular kids book about the Bible.


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In this episode we look at a pair of innovations charting a course into a future of neural interfaces and chimeras. We also wonder why so many feel compelled to weigh in on recent criminal cases. Finally, we turn to the strange tale of a local physician who used the dark web to spin a bizarre kidnapping plan.


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In this episode we discuss the concept of Christian brotherhood and its several flavors. We also look at the doctrine of wrath and why it is vital to understanding God and the Gospel. Finally, we turn to the 1700s for some pastoral encouragement about brotherly kindness written to children, but helpful for all.


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In this episode Caleb guides us on a freestyle exploration of whatever is on our mind. We also look at what is being called the Evangelical shyness towards Covid-19 vaccines. Finally, we ask what the foundational values of our nation are, were, and must be to maintain a unified nation.


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In this episode we hear from Spurgeon a challenge to seek Christ in all seasons of life. We also consider the importance of the physical, bodily resurrection of Jesus. Finally, we are challenged to listen intentionally to those around us.


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In this episode we are happy to welcome John DeJong to the Porch as we discuss the controversy over a statue of a young international social movement icon and the Christian approach to gun control.


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In this episode we discuss how to keep Easter fresh and an annual highlight in our homes. We also wade into the church music debates and discuss the role and style of music that God desires. Finally, we head off to slay dragons with Tim Chester as our guide.


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In this episode we look briefly at several international stories, including the unintentional blockade of the Suez Canal, the advent of the mechanical womb, and the freedom of James Coates. We also discuss yet another lawsuit against favorite cultural war target Jack Philips, cake baker from Colorado. Finally, we reflect on the slow but steady lifting of Covid restrictions in Washington and Idaho.


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In this episode we consider a challenge for daily living from Oswald Chambers. Ben Doehle joins us again as a guest co-host to discuss his role as a music director for Valley Bible Church. Finally, J. Gresham Machen warns us from the past about the most dangerous tool in the hands of any tyrant.


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In this episode we make an inquisition into the new euthanasia law in Spain and consider how it reflects on the direction of a godless culture. We also debate whether paying someone in oil-soaked pennies is an appropriate form of humor. Finally, we consider the proper relationship between a parent and a teenager in light of current secular advice.


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In this episode we discuss the public concern being expressed in France over the "woke" culture of America. We also look at the unexpected decline in birth rates during Covid lockdowns, and enjoy a scientific marvel bringing extinct ferrets back from extinction.


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In this episode we look at the grace/guilt chasm between Joseph and his family. We also discuss integrity and accountability in light of recent events. Finally, we look at a helpful children's Bible and learn a secret to spotting one.


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In this episode we discuss a pastor in Canada who has been arrested for not conforming to local Covid regulations. We also discuss the challenges Texas is facing after recent weather conditions and the various ways to interpret it. Finally, we ask about the recent confirmation of reports that Amazon is building another warehouse in the Valley.


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In this episode we suggest adding the "Platinum Rule" to the Golden Rule. We also look at the doctrine of the involvement of all members of the Trinity in the work of each individual Person. Finally, we look at art from a Christian perspective with Leland Ryken's book, The Liberated Imagination.


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In this episode we welcome a guest co-host for the week, Ben Doehle. We discuss UAE's Mars Probe, the firing of Gina Carano, and discuss the state of our local youth.


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In this episode we look at Galatians 6 and encouragement to not grow weary in our investment into what is good. We also remind ourselves of the importance of noticing what God is doing directly and indirectly in the world around us. Finally, we hear a challenge from Mike Rowe and raise a tribute to a local folk hero.


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In this episode we discuss the ongoing oppression of the Uighur people in China in light of recent reports, the ethics of recent stock market stunts, and how to think through the buffet of Covid-19 vaccinations rolling out.


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2021 has already been a year full of significant experiences and lessons we are learning. In this episode, we discuss what we have been learning at the end of January.


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In this first episode of season 2, we discuss what motivated the podcast in the first place and why it is called Bombadil's Porch.


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In which we:

  • Welcome our wives into the studio with us!
  • Talk about odd and memorable Christmas carols
  • Take an international tour of Christmas traditions
  • Reflect on lessons learned in 2020
  • Miss Nate Larmore and his wife who could not join us...

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In which we:

  • Take encouragement from the Valley of Vision about the greatest gift
  • Look at two doctrines of the Incarnation - the Kenosis and the Hypostatic Union
  • Discuss Dr. Dobson's book, Bringing Up Boys

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In which we:

  • Discuss the conversation around the conversation Tom Cruise had with a film crew about Covid
  • Consider why one group in the country has had improved mental health over the last year
  • Admire a local Deer Park family who create a unique Christmas tree with books

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In which we:

  • Look at the link between sighing over a fallen world and eagerly waiting for the next in Romans 8
  • Consider the peace of God and how to experience it
  • Study how to grow in godliness from You Can Change by Tim Chester

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In which we:

  • Discuss how balloons with Bibles have found their way to the center of North and South Korean politics
  • Geek out over Space X's most recent rocket ship adventure
  • Take note the toll the pandemic is taking on mental health in Spokane

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In which we:

  • Discuss the confusion that characterizes our world
  • Consider a biblical understanding of fear
  • Review Cynical Theories, by Helen Pluckrose and James Lindsay

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In which we:

  • Discuss the successful Chinese Chang’e-5 lunar mission
  • Talk about why hypocritical leaders evoke such frustration
  • Debate the merits and problems of the coming automated age

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A special edition podcast in which we:

  • Take a journey from the Reformation to Thanksgiving
  • Express gratitude for our country
  • Consider the link between gratitude and good deeds
  • Express personal thankfulness for God's blessings in our lives
  • Amaze our listeners with incredible acapella singing

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In which we:

  • Take encouragement on prayer from John Bunyan
  • Consider the wisdom of God embedded for all time in Scripture
  • Review the Netflix phenomenon The Social Dilemma

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In which we:

  • Marvel at the scientific achievement of Arecibo telescope and mark its demise
  • Consider the march of the state's intrusion into the rights of parents
  • Look at the challenges facing Spokane Valley this Thanksgiving season

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In which we:

  • Share the privilege of calling God our Abba Father
  • Relate the sufficiency of Scripture to our firm hope in life
  • Gain help from Jesus the Evangelist

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In which we:

  • Reflect on the sins of the past and their echoes in the present for Armenia
  • Consider the rise of censorship-free social media platforms
  • Discuss an appropriate perspective on the recent rise in Covid-19 cases in Spokane

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In which we:

  • Consider the many faces of evil as seen in the book of Ezra
  • Looks at the biblical concept of repentance and it's place in the believer's life
  • Learn from the life and poetry of George Herbert

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In which we:

  • Survey five international stories we might miss in the election bonanza
  • Review a study showing our brains keep us from our full potential
  • Discuss, in the aftermath of Referendum 90, when a Christian can no longer support public education

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In which we:

  • Consider the purposes of God in human disability and infirmity
  • Remind ourselves of God's authority in the patterns of Creation
  • Learn from a risk-taker how to sharpen our sense of adventure

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In which we:

  • Consider some shocking numbers related to our physical bodies
  • Learn from disagreements between evangelical titans on politics
  • Discuss our Halloween plans in a year that's more trick than treat

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In which we:

  • Take encouragement from the joy of obedience
  • Consider Christ as Prophet, Priest, and King
  • Enjoy the adventures of Growing Up Yanomamö

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In which we:

  • Discuss Pope Francis' recent comments on Civil Unions
  • Look at the backlash against Chris Pratt, and against those who defend him
  • Evaluate the wisdom of renaming local schools in light of past sins

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In which we:

  • Consider Psalm 62 and how to rest in a restless world
  • Hear from special guest Dr. Ben Orchard about an upcoming class on worldviews
  • Learn the true purpose of faery-story from J.R.R. Tolkien

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In which we:

  • Take note of Paul's glory in ministry
  • Discuss the top 8 essential theological concepts
  • Are reminded how to engage in biblical spiritual warfare

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In which we:

  • Learn of the challenges posed by unexploded ordinance from the past
  • Consider the power of a simple walk on the clarity of our mind
  • Take heed at the speed with which dictionaries adapt to cultural fads

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Our first special edition podcast. We discuss a Christian's relationship to politics and civic sphere and how we are thinking about the upcoming 2020 election season.


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In which we:

  • Consider the curious case of profane parrots
  • Marvel at the revelations of gene editing technology
  • Discuss new efforts to educate our children about the birds and the bees (not explicit)

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In which we:

  • Look at the enduring heart behind Peter's erratic actions
  • Consider the challenge of evil and suffering to the Christian worldview
  • Discuss Evangelism in the Early Church, by Michael Green

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In which we:

  • Discuss the U.N.'s concern that the U.S. is no longer championing women's rights
  • Look at the narrative-defying nominee to the U.S. Supreme Court
  • Encourage listeners to help a local family in need

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In which we:

  • Consider the goodness of authority and how to model it
  • Try to pronounce and explain the immutability of God
  • Look closer at the cross in Stephen Charnock's book, Christ Crucified

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In which we:

  • Consider some of the history and implications of peace deals in the Middle East
  • Look at the legacy and lessons of the life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg
  • Mark the fiery devastation in Malden, WA and learn lessons for fathering and community

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In which we:

  • Reflect on our duty to submit as Christians
  • Discuss the important but prickly doctrine of Providence
  • Review C. R. Wiley's book, The Household and the War for the Cosmos

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In which we launch a new podcast and discuss:

  • Paying citizens to spy in churches in China
  • A Netflix movie that isn't cute
  • Schooling from home in the age of Covid

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