The Riddle of Faith: Recent Episodes
Tamson Jensen
Dale Riddle and his daughter, Tamson, invite you to listen in on their conversations about life and faith. Dale is a character like none other and has a lifetime of incredible stories to share. Tamson grew up as an “EK” (Evangelist’s Kid), immersed in the unusual world of her parent’s ministry. Join Tamson and Dale as they reminisce, as they discuss new ideas, as they challenge each other, and as they grapple with the wondrous, infuriating, enthralling mystery of God’s love.
Tamson and Dale discuss a sermon about marriage and family based on the Love chapter of Corinthians.
Gilda had to preach for Dale one morning when he was sick, and we have it on audio! This only happened two times over four decades of evangelism. Tamson talks to Dale and Gilda about those instances and then plays Gilda's sermon.
The title of the sermon came from a Bob Dylan song, and Dad uses scripture to help us understand that we have to serve somebody - there is no middle ground. With his typical candor and humor, Dale delivers a message that is more timely today than ever.
Tamson interviews Dale on his 81st birthday. His reminders serve as the intro for a sermon about important reminders with lots of humor and stories which was a hallmark of his preaching.
Tamson and Dale talk about his sermon "How to Know For Sure You're Saved." As always, Dale takes familiar teachings and passages of scriptures and brings them to life in a new way through illustrations and stories.
Despite the title, this sermon is very hopeful. It's challenging, but hopeful. You might think you know where sin and evil come from, but Dale uses Biblical passages to help us understand the true origin. As always, he uses humor and stories to bring the Bible to life.
Tamson and Dale discuss his sermon "The Loving Father" which is Dale's take on the parable of the prodigal son. This recording includes the music from the service - Dale sings "Jesus Loves Me," Dale and Gilda sing "God's Forever Family" and "Sheltered in the Arms of God," and Gilda sings "Sweet Beulah Land."
Dale and Tamson discuss his sermon about Jonah. As always, Dale brings a unique perspective that will make you laugh and challenge you at the same time.
Dale tackles the controversial verses in the Bible about forgiveness using the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant and a number of other supporting texts.
In this sermon series, Tamson and Dale discuss the inspiration behind his sermons and then play the sermon in it's entirety. Dale is known for his no-nonsense, casual preaching style and his masterful and entertaining story-telling and illustrations. It is a joy to revisit some of the classics!
This sermon is from the book of Micah and was a sermon that Dale often preached on Sunday mornings. It's called "What Pleases God." It was recorded on 9/28/14 at Walkertown Baptist.
This is the 4th and final segment of Dale's testimony. He shared stories each night during a revival at Memorial Baptist Church in Bluefield, VA, in October of 2006.
On occasion, Dale would share his testimony during Revival, but he loved to tell stories, so he would break it up into segments and tell a little bit each night. This series was recorded at Memorial Baptist Church in Bluefield, VA, in October 2006. I'm so grateful to have this on audio!
This is part 3 of Dale's testimony that he shared at Memorial Baptist Church in Bluefield, VA, in October of 2006.
Tamson discusses with Dale and Gilda what it means to have a legacy of faith (and if that is even possible).
Dale and Tamson kick off season 4 by discussing how Christians can be hopeful in the midst of circumstances that might seem hopeless and discouraging. Dale remembers a sermon he used to preach called "Characteristics of the Church" taken from a story in Luke chapter 5, where four friends take a paralyzed man to Jesus. The friends exhibited characteristics that Dale believes should be evident in all Christians. Here's a summary of characteristics (the 5 "c's"):
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Compassion - the friends noticed a suffering person and were moved
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Concern - the friends cared enough to take action
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Conviced - they were convinced Jesus could help
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Combined - they combined efforts to get the man to Jesus
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Continued - they did not let obstacles stop. them - they continued until they got the man to Jesus.
Jesus blessed their faith, healed the man and forgave his sins, and even the skeptics in the room were in awe and praised God.
May we all be reminded of the hope we have in Christ.
Tamson and Dale discuss his song "I'm Going Home" - the last original song that Dale recorded.
Link to YouTube video lyrics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjQvPMQKyrQ
I’m Going Home
Written by Dale Riddle
Performed by Dale and Gilda Riddle
Verse 1:
Life on this earth is very special.
Enjoyment comes in many ways.
I love my wife, adore my children
But it won’t stay like this always.
Chorus:
I’m going home to live in heaven.
I’m going home to a better way.
I’m going home to live with Jesus.
I’m going home; I’m going home.
Verse 2:
Friends here on earth are always leaving.
Mom and Dad and loved ones gone.
But up in heaven, they’ll all be waiting.
Say, “Welcome home, yes welcome home.”
Chorus:
I’m going home to live in heaven.
I’m going home to a better way.
I’m going home to live with Jesus.
I’m going home; I’m going home.
Verse 3:
If you are troubled and feeling lonesome,
Life in despair, hope almost gone.
Just give your life to our sweet Jesus.
You’ll have a friend; you’ll have a home.
Chorus:
I’m going home to live in heaven.
I’m going home to a better way.
I’m going home to live with Jesus.
I’m going home; I’m going home.
Dale and Tamson discuss another song that Dale wrote called "The End Time."
YouTube Lyrics Video: https://youtu.be/54gQ0-MnPnk
The End Time
Intro:
Christ is coming to claim His children
Angels singing, crying, laughing . . .
Verse 1:
The time has come;
The Lord is here.
No need to pack you bags,
Just lift your ear.
The trumpets are sounding
So loud and clear.
You’re His child;
There’s no need to fear.
Verse 2:
Christ has come
To receive His own.
I’m gonna take me a look
At that great white throne.
I’m having cold chills
Right down to the bone,
Just to think Christ
Is taking me home!
Verse 3:
The earth is tembling
And the stars all fall
But all God’s children
Still a having a ball
How great the excitement
Of His final call
Where all have been
Born again.
Verse 4:
All lost sinners
Have run away
But there’s no way to hide
From the judgement day.
Rewards for the saved
But all lost sinners must pay,
For Jesus has
Come again.
Reprise:
The Lord is coming
Saving his children
Harps are ringing
Some shouting, some praying
Jesus has come!
Tamson and Dale discuss another favorite song that Dale wrote, "When Life Comes To An End."
Link to Lyrics Video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eb845itLyvU
Lyrics:
When Life Comes To An End
Verse 1:
When life comes to an end,
It’s too late then, my friend
To wish you had lived some other way.
For all who’re lost in sin
When the judgement day begins
Will hear the words Christ has to say.
Chorus:
“Depart from me, for I don’t know you.
Heaven is for those who trusted me.
I’m sorry, but I don’t know you
I guess you never came to Calvary.”
Verse 2:
But many on that day
Will stand to Christ and say
“Why you know me, I’m your right hand man.
I taught, I preached, I prayed,
I tithed and I obeyed,
Please let me in the promised land.
Chorus:
“Depart from me, for I don’t know you.
Heaven is for those who trusted me.
I’m sorry but I don’t know you.
I guess you never came to Calvary.”
Verse 3:
But those who have been saved
Will kneel to Christ and say,
“Oh Lord I thank you for your love and grace.
I’m not worthy to come in, but you saved me from my sin
I gave my to you that day.”
Chorus:
"Enter in, ye chosen seed of man.
Heaven is for you, yes you’re my friend.
Enter in, I recognize you.
Welcome to the promised land.
Welcome to the promised land.”
Dale, Gilda and Tamson discuss Tamson's early songwriting (ages 5 and 6) and life on the road with young children. I included a clip of Morgan singing as well (age 4).
YouTube video - no lyrics, just photos this time: https://youtu.be/lUN0Dbv50yc
Dale and Tamson discuss Dale's original song "Don't Mourn For Me."
YouTube lyrics video: https://youtu.be/xs4i41-fweg
Don’t Mourn For Me
Written by Dale Riddle
Verse 1:
When I die, don’t worry ‘bout me
For I’ll be gone to my destiny
Just celebrate all night and day
For I’ll be with Jesus up in heaven to stay
Chorus:
Don’t mourn for me, just laugh and sing
Don’t do any crying, let God’s praises ring
Simply tell everybody “Jesus is the King
And I’m alive and well and enjoying all my heavenly things
Verse 2:
Don’t wanna hear any preaching that praises me
For I am nothing and never claimed to be
Just tell them how Jesus can take their sins away
Tell them all to be ready for the judgement day.
Chorus:
Don’t mourn for me, just laugh and sing
Don’t do any crying, let God’s praises ring
Simply tell everybody “Jesus is the King
And I’m alive and well and enjoying all my heavenly things
Vers 3:
Don’t you mourn my body when it’s in the ground
For one of these days, you’ll hear a mighty sound
The graves will all open when the Lord descends
And I’ll be coming with him so don’t you worry my friend.
Chorus:
Don’t mourn for me, just laugh and sing
Don’t do any crying, let God’s praises ring
Simply tell everybody “Jesus is the King
And I’m alive and well and enjoying all my heavenly things
And I’m alive and well and enjoying all my heavenly things
And I’m alive and well and enjoying all my heavenly things
Tamson and Dale talk with Gilda about her original song, "What Christ Can Do For You."
You tube video lyrics link: https://youtu.be/-_GFdKgN2cw
What Christ Can Do For You
Written and Performed by Gilda Riddle
Chorus:
Christ can take the vilest sinner
And make his life completely new
He can make a life worth living
He did it for me and He’ll do it for you
Verse 1:
Life was so uncertain
I seemed so unfulfilled
And then I met the Savior
And I found what it means to live
Chorus:
So I know Christ can take the vilest sinner
And make his life completely new
He can make a life worth living
He did it for me and He’ll do it for you
Verse 2:
Is your life unhappy?
Is there peace within?
Christ is still your answer
You’ll find life when you trust in Him
Chorus:
For I know Christ can take the vilest sinner
And make his life completely new
He can make a life worth living
He did it for me and He’ll do it for you
What He did for me, Christ will for you.
Dale and Tamson discuss his original song "Help Us Jesus."
Link to lyrics video on YouTube:
"Help Us Jesus"
Verse 1:
Lonely faces searching
Most of them are hurting
Wondering if there’s meaning to this life
Husband, wife are crying
Inside both are dying
Shattered dreams lie broken by their strife
Chorus:
Help us Jesus, help us Jesus
Lead us by your ever guiding light
Help us Jesus, help us Jesus
Help us troubled ones know everything will be all right
Verse 2:
Mankind hating mankind
Causing them to be blind
Wondering if there’s meaning to this life
Hungry people crying
Yes they’re really dying
Shattered dreams lie broken by their strife
Chorus:
Help us Jesus, help us Jesus
Lead us by your ever guiding light
Help us Jesus, help us Jesus
Help us troubled ones know everything will be all right
Verse 3:
Happy faces smiling
Yes they’re realizing
That there is some meaning to this life
Loving, helping neighbors
United by their labors
To mend the shattered dreams once caused by strife
Chorus:
Thank you Jesus; thank you Jesus
Thank you for your ever guiding light
Praise you Jesus; praise you Jesus
Your presence gives us faith that everything’s indeed all right
Your presence gives us faith that everything’s indeed all right.
Dale and Tamson talk about his most popular song, "I'm Ready Lord."
Lyrics video on YouTube:
Song Lyrics:
I’m Ready Lord (By Dale Riddle)
Verse 1:
Lord I wonder if I just might have a minute of your time?
For I have some things I feel like I’ve just got to say.
For you see, it’s been ten years since you received that wife of mine
And I’m wanting to see her . . . oh, see her really bad today.
I’m getting tired Lord and my life, why, it’s old and grey.
And my health broke, back, you remember, ‘bout a year ago.
And the kids, well they all seem to think that I’m in the way.
So Lord, if it’s all right, I just think I’d like to go.
Chorus:
Lord, you think I might come home today?
For I’m tired and weary and I’m feeling kind of low.
Lord I think I’m ready to come and stay.
To my heavenly home I so much want to go.
Verse 2:
Now I don’t want you to think I’m ungrateful Lord
Ah, for you’ve given me so much, of that I’m proud to say.
I had a lovely wife, I’ve got kids and the best life can reward,
But I’m ready to say goodbye to it all and come on your way
So Lord, I’m gonna lie down here now and just kind of take myself a rest
And if it’s not asking too much, well, I’d just rather not awake.
For I know in heaven I’m gonna receive the best,
So here I go Lord, take my soul, for heaven sake.
Chorus:
Lord, you think I might come home today?
For I’m tired and weary and I’m feeling kind of low.
Lord I think I’m ready to come and stay.
To my heavenly home I so much want to go.
Verse 3:
Hello Lord! Ah, thank you, Sir. Sure good to see you.
Hi honey! Oh, it’s been so long; I sure have missed you.
No, I haven’t seen Mom and Dad; you see, I just got here.
Where do they live? Ah, better than that, you come on and show me.
My, it sure is pretty up here, isn’t it?
You know, I’d about give anything to see old Paul.
You know where he lives? And Abraham?
My goodness, it’s gonna take me a thousand years just to get started on seeing some of these folks.
Oh me, this is just more than I ever dreamed of baby! Thank goodness, I finally made it.
Praise the Lord! So good to be here.
Dale and Tamson discuss Dale's song "Resurrection Power."
Lyrics below and lyrics video can be found on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmI7JdoaLqs
Resurrection Power
Written and performed by Dale Riddle
Verse 1:
One time a troubled family called a friend.
“Come and help our sickly brother,” they cried,
“For death’s about to do him in.”
But before he could arrive, their sickly brother took the dive
And death had claimed its victim once again.
Well a few days later, their friend arrived on the scene.
“Where is your sickly brother?” he asked,
“I want to see him once again.”
“Why, he’s dead, they began to cry;
Ah, you’re too late; you’ve let him die.
Why, he’s rotting in the tomb; there is no life.”
Well, this friend named Jesus,
He looked them right straight in the eye
And he said, “I am the resurrection and the life!”
And Jesus cried, “Come forth, my friend!”
And from this tomb walked a living man.
For Jesus is the Son of God and death has no power over him!
Chorus:
This Jesus, is the resurrection power.
Yes, Jesus, He’s the very source of life.
And one day Christ will say to me,
“Come forth, my friend!” and I’ll be free.
Oh, praise God resurrection power is liberty.
Verse 2:
Now a little while later this same Jesus Christ was slain
Upon an old rugged cross He died;
His blood was shed for sinful man.
Everyone said, “Evil’s won again;
Now with Jesus dead, no hope remains.”
And they sealed Christ’s battered body in a grave.
Well, three days later, some women, they went to see
If they might show their last respects
For a man who used to be.
But inside an open tomb
They found an angel, not deathly doom.
“He is risen from the dead!” Resurrection power set him free!
Chorus:
This Jesus, He’s the resurrection power.
Yes, Jesus, He’s the very source of life.
And one day Christ will say to me,
“Come forth, my friend!” and I’ll be free.
Oh, praise God resurrection power is liberty.
Verse 3:
Now resurrection power is from God and it’s for you and me
Christ gives it to all who trust Him and it provides our liberty.
One day death will surely claim me, but Christ has won the victory
Oh, praise God resurrection power is for eternity!
Chorus:
This Jesus, He’s the resurrection power.
Yes, Jesus, He’s the very source of life.
And one day Christ will say to me,
“Come forth, my friend!” and I’ll be free.
Oh, praise God resurrection power is liberty.
Yes, praise God resurrection power is for eternity!
Praise God resurrection power is liberty . . .
Praise God resurrection power is liberty . . .
Dale and Tamson discuss Dale's song "Playing in the Sand" and the story behind the song.
YouTube Lyrics Video (with photos): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywVkYWazjoQ
Playing in the Sand
Verse 1:
I see children playing in the sand,
And it reminds me of before I was a man.
For my happiness was always right at hand
As I searched out life there among the sand.
Chorus:
Oh to find such carefree times again
As life’s dreams were created in the sand.
No problems then for dreams were in command.
Oh to once again find peace among the sand.
Verse 2:
Life is still a game as we walk through this land
And reality no one can comprehend.
I believe that in God’s master plan
We were to live our lives like children in the sand
Chorus:
Oh to find such carefree times again
As life’s dreams were created in the sand.
No problems then for dreams were in command.
Oh to once again find peace among the sand.
Verse 3:
Oh dear God, remind us once again
Of the childlike trust you said that you demand.
Then by faith may we walk hand in hand
Dreaming dreams of hope like children in the sand.
Chorus:
Oh to find such carefree times again
As life’s dreams were created in the sand.
No problems then for dreams were in command.
Oh to once again find peace among the sand.
Dale and Tamson discuss Dale's song "Heaven Bound." There's also a clip and some discussion about Tamson's first recording at age 5.
YouTube lyrics video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozcwIktOELY
Heaven Bound
Verse 1:
I’m heaven bound
I’m going to glory
Eternal life
Is mine today
I’ll see my Jesus
And I’ll sing his story
How Jesus saved my soul
And he took all my burdens away
Chorus:
I’m heaven bound
To sing with the angels
I’m heaven bound
To dwell in that city
I’m heaven bound
To walk beside Jesus
I’m heaven bound
No more sickness and sorrow
All my cares will pass away
No darkness there
Jesus lights the way
I’m heaven bound
Heaven bound
Verse 2:
I’m heaven bound
I’ll get to see my loved ones
Who dwell in a land
With the golden streets
I’ll visit with Abraham
Old Elijah and Sampson
But the first thing I’ll do is
I’ll kneel at my Savior’s feet
Chorus:
I’m heaven bound
To sing with the angels
I’m heaven bound
To dwell in that city
I’m heaven bound
To walk beside Jesus
I’m heaven bound
No more sickness and sorrow
All my cares will pass away
No darkness there
Jesus lights the way
I’m heaven bound
Heaven bound.
Verse:
I’m heaven bound
Do you want to go with me?
All you really have to do
Is place your life in Christ’s hands
He died for us all
His blood was shed at Calvary
Yes, Jesus fixed it so
We can all see the promised land
Chorus:
I’m heaven bound
To sing with the angels
I’m heaven bound
To dwell in that city
I’m heaven bound
To walk beside Jesus
I’m heaven bound
No more sickness and sorrow
All my cares will pass away
No darkness there
Jesus lights the way
I’m heaven bound
Heaven bound
I’m heaven bound
Heaven bound
Heaven bound!
Dale and Tamson discuss Dale's song "Heaven's Now" (lyrics below). This song was also briefly featured on the podcast about the end times (Season 2 - Episode 2).
Heaven’s Now
Verse 1:
Some people are waiting for that better day
When the Lord’s gonna come again.
They walk that straight and narrow way
They’re trying so hard not to sin.
“Why, look at all the signs” the people say,
“Oh, this world is going to end.
It’s tough and rough to be a Christian today.
I’m sad now, but I won’t be when . . .”
Chorus:
When?
When, when, it’s always when,
People looking for that better day.
If Jesus came to give us the abundant life,
Then He intended no delay.
When, when, it’s always when.
Why wait for that better day?
Jesus came to save us, bring us joy and peace;
Heaven’s right now for the saved.
Verse 2:
Now it’s true that the world will pass away
And that the Lord’s gonna come again,
But life is a gift from God each day
And happy souls are important to him.
So don’t waste your time waiting the rapture
To escape this old world of sin.
Heaven is now for believers to capture;
It’s now, praise God, not when.
Chorus:
When?
When, when, it’s now, not then,
Yes, there is that better day today!
Jesus came to give us the abundant life
And there’s no need for delay.
When, when, it’s now, not then,
Stop searching for that better day.
Jesus has saved us, brought us joy and peace.
Yeah, heaven’s right now for the saved.
Verse 3:
Now the moral of the story
Is to claim God’s gifts today.
There’s no need for you to worry
And there’s no need for delay.
Heaven came down and glory abounds
For all who will trust and obey.
I’m thankful for my home in glory
But even happier for my heaven each day.
Chorus:
When?
When, when, it’s now not then,
Yes, there is that better day today!
Jesus came to save us, bring us joy and peace,
And there’s no need for delay.
When, when, it’s now, not then,
Stop searching for that better day.
Jesus has saved us, brought us joy and peace.
Yeah, heaven’s right now for the saved.
If you’re saved, heaven’s now!
Season 3 is all about music! Dale and Tamson kick off the new season by talking about Dale's first original song that he recorded (lyrics below), the importance of music in the ministry of the Riddle Evangelistic Association, and how Dale began songwriting.
To The Glory Of God
Verse 1:
We have not come to entertain you
Or to show you how good we can sing.
We have not come to gain your praises
Or to hear our virtues ring.
We have come to share God’s blessings
Through Jesus our Lord and King.
Praise God, we’ll gladly tell you now
Just why we love to sing.
Chorus:
For whatever we do,
We’re gonna do to the glory of God.
And whatever we say,
We’re gonna say to the glory of God.
For the greatest thing that a man can do
Is to let his life express Jesus to you,
So glory, express glory,
And do it all for the glory of God.
Verse 2:
Now Jesus came down to save us
And release our souls from sin.
He left His home in glory
And came down to dwell with men.
He lived and he died and his perfect life
Was never ever marred by sin.
And Christ will save you now today
If you will trust in Him.
Chorus:
So whatever we do,
We’re gonna do to the glory of God.
And whatever we say,
We’re gonna say to the glory of God.
For the greatest thing that a man can do
Is to let his life express Jesus to you,
So glory, express glory,
And do it all for the glory of God.
Verse 3:
Now one day it will all be over
And we’re going to heaven’s land.
We’re going to tread upon the streets of gold
And we’ll see those nail-scarred hands.
And we’ll take our place in glory
Right beside the angel band.
How happy I’ll be forevermore
Living over in the glory land, praise God!
Chorus:
So whatever we do,
We’re gonna do to the glory of God.
And whatever we say,
We’re gonna say to the glory of God.
For the greatest thing that a man can do
Is to let his life express Jesus to you,
So glory, express glory,
And do it all for the glory of God.
For the greatest thing that a man can do
Is to let his life express Jesus to you,
So glory, express glory,
And do it all for the glory of God.
Tamson and Dale revisit an old sermon, "Why Sit Here Until We Die?" to talk about Dale's inspiration for the sermon and the relevance of the message today.
Dale and Tamson interview Tom Bos who was involved in the ministry from the very start. Dale and Tom reminisce about the early days and how God used Tom's expertise in music, electronics and technology.
Dale, Tamson and Morgan sit down with Mark Howell for a look back at the one year that Mark traveled with us as our sound man. Mark took a gap year after high school and opted for a very different type of education . . . life on the road with an evangelist. This was such a fun interview and I love hearing all the stories and laughter, especially now that we are older and can look back with a different perspective on those experiences.
Tamson discusses Dale's recent mission trip with he and guest, Matt Fallaw. Dale and Matt have traveled to Cuba together several times and the Cuban people hold a special place in their hearts. It's Dale's favorite place that he has ever traveled and he and Matt tell stories about some of their favorite memories and reflect on what they have learned through the years.
Dale and Tamson discuss evangelism (witnessing) and how it has changed for them through the years. Are we required to try to convert people? How can sharing our faith become a scorecard instead of a joyful overflow of faith?
I had another opportunity to be a party-crasher and interview Dad and his friends! Ronny Russell and Charles Howell join us again on the podcast to address the topic of mental health. We discuss why depression can carry a stigma in the Christian world and Charles and Ronny tell personal stories about their experiences. I think their transparency will be an inspiration, and maybe even a relief, to many people who struggle with depression or love someone who struggles with depression. (Warning: suicide and drug overdose are mentioned in this podcast)
Are we really free to be our authentic selves if we have to worry about other people? Dale and Tamson discuss an old sermon and some truths that can be confusing. Can another person inhibit your freedom in Christ? Can your freedom in Christ be used as an excuse to push your beliefs on someone else? Just a few of the questions that are addressed in this podcast.
Gilda joins Dale and Tamson on the podcast to revisit a painful experience that required forgiveness. This is a follow up to the previous podcast "Lord Have Mercy" where we explored our obligations as recipients of God's mercy and forgiveness. I ask Gilda how she was able to forgive when the church broke her heart, and heard insights and stories from she and Dale about anger, mercy, and forgiveness.
Tamson revisits an old sermon to discuss some lingering questions about whether we forfeit God's mercy when we refuse to be merciful. Dale tells a story about the most merciful person he has ever experienced. As always, lots of laughter (especially toward the end) as Dale and Tamson commiserate about mercy not being a "gift" and Dale tells stories of how that has played out in his life.
Are there certain stories in the Bible that have lost their mystery and meaning because they are viewed and defended as historical facts? Dale and Tamson discuss how something can be true without being factual. They start with the first five chapters of Genesis and then talk about the Bible in general - a mystical and holy book about God, but the Bible is not God.
Part 2 - Dale tells stories about the eight years he spent in the rock 'n' roll band, "Billy and the King Bees." He doesn't like to name-drop so he rarely talks about the famous people he met, but love hearing all these stories, so I had to "nudge" him a little. And I'm grateful for yet another example of how God can use every part of our lives for a greater purpose and nothing is wasted, if we allow Him.
Dale tells stories about the eight years he spent in the rock 'n' roll band, "Billy and the King Bees." He doesn't like to name-drop so he rarely talks about the famous people he met, but love hearing all these stories, so I had to "nudge" him a little. And I'm grateful for yet another example of how God can use every part of our lives for a greater purpose and nothing is wasted, if we allow Him.
It's a common and vexing question without an easy answer. Tamson talks to Dale and Gilda to get their perspectives and hear their stories about why they trust their lives to a God who allows injustice and suffering. Tamson talks about times she has struggled (and sometimes still struggles) with this question and also asks questions about the different theologies that have emerged from the Christian world to address this mystery. Dale and Gilda have a lifetime of experiencing God's faithfulness and goodness and provide a lot of hope and confidence in spite of the uncertainty.
For Dad's 78th birthday, we revisit some favorite memories (of birthdays, of Mom, of being a Dad) and favorite things (song, Bible verse, author, etc).
Dale and Tamson discuss the fascination with eschatology (the study of the end times or last things), the benefit and/or harm of our beliefs about the end times, and why Dale has always focused on the here and now instead of wishing and waiting for (or fearing and dreading) the rapture.
Dad and his buddies (Ronny Russell and Charles Howell) were having a "guys night" and I called to see if I could ask them some questions. They were happy to share stories and I was grateful for the opportunity to talk with them!
Dale and Tamson discuss crisis of faith (also referred to as "deconstruction") as part of the faith journey.
Tamson and Dale discuss how certainty is toxic to faith and how dualistic thinking can hinder our growth as Christians.
At this time of this recording, Mom and Dad have been married almost 57 years, so they have many memories and words of wisdom to share about their journey together.
Dale and Gilda discuss women in ministry and some of their experiences dealing with the attitudes surrounding this topic.
Dale has a gift for taking complex things and making them simple and presenting them with humor. Never one to follow the rules, he tells us stories about how his fun-loving nature got him in trouble, and why he believed in keeping things simple.
Dale knows what it is to have very little and what it is to have plenty. He grew up poor on a rural farm and then got a taste of money and fame in a rock n' roll band. The lessons he learned in the band helped shape his perspective about money and fame. His time in the ministry taught him to trust God, and the people he has met (from the rich and famous to the incredibly poor) have taught him valuable lessons about money and fame that he shares with us.
One of the most unique things about Dale is that he doesn't worry. He believes that Christians who worry practice a form of "practical atheism" because they claim to trust God but live life as if they don't. In this podcast we hear stories about the biggest worrier he has ever known, and how he became a person who is free from worry.
Dale is a seeker who loves to ask questions and embraces the mystery of faith. In this podcast we find out about this evolution and hear the story of the mysterious way God showed up and gave Dale the confidence he needed to follow God toward an illogical and uncertain future.
Dale has a lot of unique characteristics and in this podcast we will hear stories about his ease in dealing with conflict. We will discover why he finds conflict the "easier" way, his thoughts about how Jesus handled conflict, and much more.
Dale and Gilda Riddle are the embodiment of the name of this podcast because their faith is truly a Riddle and the success of their ministry was a mystery in so many ways. They lived a life that was unpredictable, unconventional, and based on deep faith and trust in God. I hope the stories of their faith will strengthen yours.
In Missions Part 1 we discussed how Dale and Gilda got involved in foreign missions and some memorable trips they took together to Peru, Haiti, etc.
In Missions Part 2, we talk about more transformational experiences at the Billy Graham worldwide evangelism conference in Amsterdam, and also in Korea and Cuba.
In this episode, Missions Part 3, my brother Morgan joins us and recounts some stories from his trips with Dad to Peru and Cuba. We also discuss the mission endeavors in Honduras and and then the mission trip that our entire family did together (including young children - ranging in age from 6-13) in Rotan. Dad also tells some of his favorite stories from his travels and we end with some practical advice for anyone who is considering going on a mission trip.
Dale and Gilda Riddle are the embodiment of the name of this podcast because their faith is truly a Riddle and the success of their ministry was a mystery in so many ways. They lived a life that was unpredictable, unconventional, and based on deep faith and trust in God. I hope the stories of their faith will strengthen yours.
In Missions Part 1 we discussed how Dale and Gilda got involved in foreign missions and some memorable trips they took together to Peru, Haiti, etc. In Part 2, we talk about more transformational experiences at the Billy Graham worldwide evangelism conference in Amsterdam, and also in Korea and Cuba.
Dale and Gilda Riddle are the embodiment of the name of this podcast because their faith is truly a Riddle and the success of their ministry was a mystery in so many ways. They lived a life that was unpredictable, unconventional, and based on deep faith and trust in God. I hope the stories of their faith will strengthen yours.
Dale and Gilda Riddle are the embodiment of the name of this podcast because their faith is truly a Riddle and the success of their ministry was a mystery in so many ways – they lived a life that was unpredictable, unconventional, and based on deep faith and trust in God. I hope the stories of their faith will strengthen yours.
We decided to jump right into a topic that many people avoid. Dale has always openly talked about death, but his early acceptance of this inevitable truth has given him the freedom to live a "big," full, joyful life. We'll hear stories about the experiences that influenced his attitude and theology about death.