The Steve Marston Show

Can Christians disagree without dividing? And are we making time for the things that matter most?

On today's episode of The Steve Marston Show, we're tackling two important challenges in the Christian life: learning to extend grace when believers disagree and becoming more intentional about growing in our relationship with Jesus.

Should Christians celebrate Halloween? Some believers see it as harmless family fun, while others believe it's something their families should avoid. Steve explores the biblical principle of Christian liberty, why personal convictions matter, and how we can respect one another without allowing secondary issues to divide the body of Christ.

Then, in our Christian Explain Yourself feature, we explore an interesting question: If Christians believe heaven awaits us, why are so many of us afraid of dying? Steve discusses the uncertainty of death, the reality of suffering, and the hope we have in Christ even when life's final chapter is difficult.

Special Guest: Jason Curry — Author of Finish Empty

Are you controlling your calendar, or is your calendar controlling you?

Author, pastor, and speaker Jason Curry joins Steve for an encouraging conversation about living with purpose instead of simply reacting to life's demands.

Jason shares why spiritual growth doesn't happen by accident and why the things that matter most—time with God, marriage, family, rest, and discipleship—must become intentional priorities.

Together, they discuss:

• Why the battle for excellence is fought in your calendar

• The difference between urgent responsibilities and meaningful priorities

• How busyness can quietly interfere with spiritual growth

• Why obedience flows from God's love rather than earning it

• How to live a life with fewer regrets and finish empty

Also in today's episode:

Steve examines the debate over the age of the earth involving Christian apologists Frank Turek and Ken Ham, shares thoughts about the upcoming Chronicles of Narnia adaptation and its surprising Led Zeppelin connection, and delivers another Dad Joke of the Day!

Plus, in Faith Between Our Ears, we're memorizing Psalm 9:10:

"And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you."

Your Next Step: Hold firmly to the essential truths of the Christian faith, but extend grace and liberty to fellow believers on matters of personal conviction. And make time for the things that help you become more like Jesus.

Resources:

📖 Get Steve's FREE Five Tips for Bible Study PDF at https://stevemarstonshow.com

📚 Learn more about Jason Curry and Finish Empty at https://finishempty.com

🎥 Find inspiring testimonies, biblical teaching, and more on YouTube by searching The Steve Marston Show.

The Steve Marston Show — A Daily Journey in Learning How to Live More Like Jesus.

Faith, encouragement, real conversations, and a little fun along the way!

What happens when life hurts so badly that you begin to question whether you can trust God?

Actor and comedian Billy Crystal reportedly shared that personal tragedy and loss have changed his relationship with God. His story raises a question that believers and nonbelievers alike wrestle with: If God loves us, why does He allow so much suffering?

On today's episode of The Steve Marston Show, Steve explores how we can hold on to our faith when circumstances don't make sense, prayers seem unanswered, and life feels anything but fair.

Also on today's show:

• Seek and Find — 2 Kings 6: The prophet Elisha found himself surrounded by enemies, but God revealed something extraordinary. Discover the powerful reminder that there's more happening than what our eyes can see.

• Faith and the Midterm Elections: Tom Olahan of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America joins Steve to discuss abortion policy, the upcoming elections, and why his organization believes pro-life voters should remain engaged in the political process.

• 80,000 Gather for Prayer: A massive gathering at AT&T Stadium in Arlington brings believers together for worship and prayer, reminding us of the power of seeking God.

• Another Failed Rapture Prediction: A pastor's latest prediction comes and goes. Steve looks at what Jesus actually said about knowing the day and hour of His return.

• Christian Music and the Dove Awards: Worship artist Cory Asbury reflects on celebrating what God is doing through Christian music.

• Faith Between Our Ears: Psalm 9:10 reminds us that those who know God's name can put their trust in Him.

Plus, there's always room for a Dad Joke of the Day!

Today's Next Step: Life will change. Circumstances will disappoint us. People may let us down. But God's character, His promises, and His love never change. Make the decision to trust Him, even when you can't understand what He's doing.

FREE RESOURCE: Want to grow in your understanding of Scripture? Get Steve's free PDF, Five Tips for Bible Study, at https://SteveMarstonShow.com.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily journey in learning how to live more like Jesus. Join Steve for biblical encouragement, meaningful conversations, practical discipleship, and a little fun along the way.

Helping You Live More Like Jesus.

What does it really look like to live more like Jesus—especially when you've made a mistake and hurt someone along the way?

On this Fun Friday edition of The Steve Marston Show, Steve shares a powerful example of Christian humility involving Pastor Nathan Mudd, former Newsboys singer Michael Tait, and Randall Crawford. When a social media post intended to demonstrate grace and forgiveness caused unexpected pain, Pastor Mudd did something remarkable: he listened, apologized, and personally reached out to someone who had been hurt.

It's a reminder that following Jesus isn't just about what we believe or say. It's about how we respond when we're wrong, how we treat others, and whether we're willing to put humility into action.

But it's Friday, so there's plenty of fun along the way!

In This Episode:

• Grace, Forgiveness & Accountability: What Pastor Nathan Mudd's response to criticism teaches us about humility, compassion, and living out our Christian faith.

• The Unwritten Rules of Church Potlucks: Steve delivers 12 hilarious observations about church fellowship meals, including sacred potato salad, mysterious casseroles, the last deviled egg, and the people who mysteriously disappear when it's time to clean up.

• Christian Persecution in China: Pastor Ezra Jin receives recognition for his courageous stand for religious freedom and his advocacy for imprisoned believers.

• Artificial Intelligence & the Human Heart: Christian author Abdu Murray raises important questions about AI, human identity, spiritual discernment, and our desire to replace God's authority with our own.

• A Wrestling Star Talks About Tithing: AEW wrestler Samoa Joe shares how biblical stewardship transformed his understanding of money, generosity, and his relationship with God.

• Faith Between Our Ears: We wrap up our week memorizing Lamentations 3:22–23, a beautiful reminder that God's steadfast love never ceases and His mercies are new every morning.

• Dad Joke of the Day: Because a little laughter belongs in every Friday!

Your Next Step: Think about someone you may have hurt, intentionally or unintentionally. Instead of defending yourself or ignoring the situation, consider what it would look like to demonstrate the humility of Jesus by listening, apologizing, and making things right.

FREE BIBLE STUDY RESOURCE

Want to grow more confident in God's Word? Download Steve's free guide, Five Tips for Bible Study, at https://www.stevemarstonshow.com.

Join the Conversation!

Have an idea for a future edition of The Unwritten Rules? Send Steve your suggestions at [email protected].

Subscribe to The Steve Marston Show on YouTube and help us reach our next milestone of 250 subscribers!

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, discipleship, encouragement, faith and culture conversations, and a little fun along the way.

Listen on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock, AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you get your favorite podcasts.

God loves you just the way you are—but He loves you too much to leave you that way.

Are we truly following Jesus, or are we content with adding a little Jesus to an otherwise unchanged life?

On today's episode of The Steve Marston Show, Steve challenges believers to move beyond a shallow faith and embrace the spiritual growth, discipline, and transformation that come from fully surrendering our lives to Christ.

Plus, we hear the powerful conclusion of Steve's conversation with Mariah Stephens, a domestic abuse survivor whose story of brokenness, courage, healing, and restoration is a remarkable testimony of God's faithfulness. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Mariah shares how she found the strength to escape an abusive marriage, discovered God's presence in her darkest moments, and eventually experienced a beautiful new beginning.

In today's episode:

• Growing Beyond a Shallow Faith: Why following Jesus requires more than simply adding Him to our lives—and how intentional Bible study, prayer, and spiritual discipline help us become more like Christ.

• That's Not in the Bible: "Come as you are and stay as you are." God welcomes us exactly where we are, but His desire is to transform us into the image of Jesus.

• Broken but Not Abandoned: Mariah Stephens shares how God carried her through domestic abuse, divorce, healing, and ultimately into a new season of life filled with hope.

• Stories You May Have Missed: Country singer Ella Langley speaks about her faith following a concert bomb threat, Christian college students develop an AI tool to help young adults aging out of foster care, and new research reveals changing American beliefs about the virgin birth of Jesus.

• Faith Between Your Ears: Psalm 9:10 reminds us that God has not forsaken those who seek Him.

Your Next Step: Be intentional about your relationship with Jesus. Set aside time to study God's Word, pray, and simply spend time in His presence. Don't settle for a little Jesus when He's calling you to surrender your entire life.

Watch Mariah's Complete Interview:
Find Broken but Not Abandoned on The Steve Marston Show YouTube channel. Please consider sharing her story with someone who needs encouragement and hope.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, visit https://calledtopeace.org for resources and support.

About The Steve Marston Show

A daily Christian radio show and podcast helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement, and a little fun along the way.

Listen on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock, AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Visit https://stevemarstonshow.com for more episodes, interviews, and free Bible study resources.

Helping You Live More Like Jesus.

What happens when life takes you somewhere you never imagined you'd go? And how do you recognize God's presence when everything around you seems to be falling apart?

On today's episode of The Steve Marston Show, Steve welcomes Mariah Stephens for the first part of an emotional and deeply personal conversation about surviving domestic violence, recognizing the warning signs of abuse, and discovering that even in life's darkest moments, God has not abandoned us.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Mariah shares how a relationship that began with hope and the promise of love gradually became a marriage marked by manipulation, emotional abuse, fear, and eventually physical violence. Her story reminds us that abuse doesn't always leave visible bruises—and that recognizing the truth can be the first step toward finding freedom.

But that's only part of today's conversation!

Also on today's show:

• You're a Minister, Whether You Realize It or Not! Steve explores how everyday acts of kindness, genuine attention, and intentional listening can open doors for sharing the love of Jesus. Ministry isn't reserved for pastors and missionaries. It's something every follower of Christ is called to do.

• Sunday Morning Takeaways: When the Holy Becomes Common. Has church become just another part of your weekly routine? Steve shares a powerful reminder that familiarity with worship should never cause us to lose our reverence and awe for God. Plus, listeners share what stood out from their Sunday sermons.

• Mariah Stephens: Recognizing the Invisible Bruises. In part one of her testimony, Mariah describes the emotional, psychological, and physical toll of an abusive relationship—and why leaving isn't always as simple as outsiders might think.

• Artificial Intelligence and the Christian Faith. Should pastors turn sermons into AI-generated cinematic videos? And could AI help Audio Adrenaline's Mark Stuart sing again? Steve weighs in on two very different uses of emerging technology.

• The Dove Awards. A look at Christian music's biggest night, including Phil Wickham's Artist of the Year honor and memorable performances.

• Faith Between Our Ears: Psalm 9:10. This week's memory verse offers a powerful reminder that those who know God's name can trust Him because He never forsakes those who seek Him.

• Dad Joke of the Day! Because a little laughter is always good for the soul!

Today's Big Takeaway:

You don't need a pulpit, a title, or a paycheck from a church to be a minister of Jesus Christ. Sometimes the most powerful ministry happens when you simply make another person feel seen, heard, and loved.

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Bible Study Guide: Five Tips for Bible Study — https://stevemarstonshow.com

• Domestic Abuse Support and Resources: https://calledtopeace.org

• Watch Mariah Stephens' complete, uninterrupted interview on The Steve Marston Show YouTube channel.

About The Steve Marston Show

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement, and a little fun along the way.

Listen on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock, AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Subscribe, share, and join us for another daily journey in learning how to live more like Jesus.

Content note: This episode includes discussion of domestic abuse, emotional manipulation, physical violence, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.

ABOUT THE STEVE MARSTON SHOW

The Steve Marston Show is a Christian radio show and podcast dedicated to helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, real-life conversations, encouragement, and a little fun along the way.

Subscribe for more conversations about faith, discipleship, and what it means to follow Jesus in everyday life.

🌐 Website: https://stevemarstonshow.com

🎙️ Listen to The Steve Marston Show wherever you get your podcasts.

NEED HELP?

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

Call: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Website: https://www.thehotline.org

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Content advisory: This conversation includes descriptions of domestic violence, emotional abuse, and suicidal thoughts.

#DomesticViolenceSurvivor #ChristianTestimony #GodsFaithfulness #HealingFromAbuse #MariahStephens #SteveMarstonShow

Does God still speak to us today? How can we tell the difference between God's leading and our own desires? And when someone claims to have repented, how do we know whether they've truly changed?

On today's episode of The Steve Marston Show, we're tackling these questions and more as we continue our daily journey in learning how to live more like Jesus.

Here's what we're talking about:

Forgiveness, Repentance, and the Legacy of Jim Bakker

Steve reflects on the controversial legacy of televangelist Jim Bakker and the lessons Christians can learn about failure, forgiveness, repentance, and restoring trust. When someone who has hurt us says they're sorry, how should we respond? Jesus taught that we can recognize people by their fruit, but only God truly knows the heart.

Christian, Explain Yourself: "God Told Me"

Christians frequently say things like "God told me to do this" or "I feel God leading me." But what does that actually mean? Does God still speak to His people today?

Steve shares a personal story about a time he believed God was prompting him to do something uncomfortable—and the unexpected lesson he learned about obedience. Plus, three practical ways to evaluate what you believe God is telling you:

• The Scripture Test: Does it agree with God's Word?

• The Counsel Test: What do spiritually mature Christians think?

• The Motive Test: Are you seeking God's will or your own desires?

Understanding the Bible with Tyler Marston of 1189

Steve welcomes his son Tyler, creator of the YouTube channel 1189, a free Bible study resource designed to help people understand every chapter of Scripture.

They discuss why the book of Acts ends so abruptly, why Jesus remains the central figure throughout Acts, and how the book of Joshua demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises. Tyler also explains why you don't need a seminary degree to study and understand God's Word.

Discover Tyler's free Bible study videos by searching 1189 on YouTube.

Plus, stories you may have missed:

• The controversy surrounding Greta Gerwig's upcoming Chronicles of Narnia adaptation

• Skillet frontman John Cooper on finding hope through life's struggles

• Zachary Levi and Neal McDonough bring a classic redemption story back to the big screen

• The Dad Joke of the Day

• Faith Between Our Ears: Lamentations 3:22–23 and God's mercies that are new every morning

Your Next Step:

When someone comes to you seeking forgiveness, remember that you can extend grace without pretending you know their heart. Trust God to judge what only He can see, and seek His wisdom as you move forward.

FREE RESOURCE: Want to get more out of your time in God's Word? Download Steve's free guide, Five Tips for Bible Study, at https://stevemarstonshow.com.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement, and a little fun along the way.

Listen on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock, AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Helping You Live More Like Jesus.

What happens when God opens a door in a place where many Christians assume the door is firmly closed?

On today's Steve Marston Show, Steve revisits one of the most encouraging conversations we've aired: youth pastor Casey Longing shares how opportunities to teach biblical principles and character developed inside the public schools of Beebe, Arkansas. What began with character classes eventually grew to include a student club that attracted 104 signups on its first day—and a junior-high program Casey says has averaged around 250 students each week. Pasted text

But that's only part of today's show.

Steve begins with a conversation about Christian persecution, the Tribulation and God's wrath. Are persecution and God's judgment the same thing? Steve explains why he believes Scripture draws an important distinction between the two, how that relates to his belief in a pre-tribulation rapture, and why Christians should be able to find common ground on the most important issue: Be ready for the return of Jesus. Pasted text

Then, in That's Not in the Bible, Steve tackles another common assumption: If I'm suffering, God must be punishing me. Looking at Job and the man born blind in John 9, Steve discusses why suffering isn't necessarily evidence that you've done something wrong—and why trusting what God has revealed about Himself matters when your circumstances and feelings tell you otherwise. Pasted text

Plus, Christian news, an incredible story about forgiveness, the Dad Joke of the Day, and this week's Faith Between Your Ears passage from Lamentations 3:22–23.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily journey in learning how to live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement and a little fun along the way.

What do you do when anxiety wakes you up in the middle of the night and your mind immediately starts racing?

After several unexpected financial hits in just a few weeks, Steve found himself wide awake at 2:40 a.m.—worried about money, car repairs, and how everything was going to work out. Then one simple thought cut through the anxiety: Open your Bible.

The circumstances didn’t suddenly change. The bills didn’t disappear. But something else did change: the anxiety gave way to peace.

Steve shares this personal story and why turning to God’s Word in the middle of our worry can be more than a Christian cliché—it can become a spiritual discipline that changes how we face the pressures of everyday life.

Plus, it’s Sunday Morning Takeaways, as listeners share what stood out to them from church this weekend. Steve also looks at the familiar story of the paralyzed man who was lowered through the roof to Jesus—and an easily overlooked detail about the faith of the people who brought him to Christ.

And we revisit an encouraging conversation with Christian music artist Nicole Lauren about her music, faith, and what God is doing in her life.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily journey in learning how to live more like Jesus—with biblical encouragement, conversations with people God is working through, listener interaction, and a little fun along the way.

Visit SteveMarstonShow.com for more from the show.

It’s Fun Friday on The Steve Marston Show, where faith is serious—but that doesn’t mean Christians have to be serious all the time.

Steve kicks things off with a question you probably never considered: Which Bible character would you trust to negotiate the price of a car? Abraham? Jacob? Joseph? Zacchaeus? Even Goliath gets a vote. The answers are surprisingly biblical—and hilarious.

Then it’s time for Unwritten Rules, and this week Steve tackles the Unwritten Rules of Church Business Meetings. From the danger of saying, “This should go quick,” to debates over the thermostat, mysterious parliamentary procedure, and the unmistakable power of a wife standing in the back holding her purse, church people will recognize these immediately.

Later, Brett Eckelberry from Plugged In joins Steve to talk movies, entertainment and technology, including the continuing popularity of Marvel, upcoming releases, classic movies like Frankenstein, finding deeper themes in some frightening films, and how parents can navigate the enormous amount of content their kids encounter on YouTube.

Plus, Steve shares some stories you may have missed, the Dad Joke of the Day, and this week’s Faith Between Your Ears verse, Jeremiah 9:24.

And today’s Your Next Step is simple: have a little fun with your Christian life. Following Jesus matters more than anything—but joy should be part of the journey too.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily journey in learning how to live more like Jesus—with biblical teaching, conversations, encouragement, faith, culture and a little fun along the way.

Are you a good enough person to get into heaven?

It’s one of the most common beliefs about salvation—and when Logan Paul was asked about his confidence that he would go to heaven, his answer sounded a lot like what millions of people would probably say: I’ve made mistakes, but I’m trying to be a good person.

On today’s Steve Marston Show, Steve breaks down Logan Paul’s conversation with 22-year-old evangelist Bryce Crawford and examines the fundamental difference between trusting in our own goodness and trusting in what Jesus has done for us. Bryce offers a simple courtside-ticket analogy that provides a great example of how Christians can explain the Gospel naturally and conversationally.

Then, in Christian Explain Yourself, Steve tackles something Christians say constantly: “In Jesus’ name, amen.” Why do we end our prayers that way? Is it a biblical command? Does saying those words somehow make a prayer more powerful? Steve explains why praying in Jesus’ name is about far more than simply adding a phrase to the end of a prayer.

Plus, Tyler Marston from 1189 joins the show to explore one of the Bible’s most action-packed chapters—Acts 27. Paul is a prisoner aboard a ship headed toward Rome when a violent storm changes everything. Through shipwreck, fear and uncertainty, Paul demonstrates what faithful obedience looks like when circumstances are completely beyond our control.

Also on the show:

• What Paul’s shipwreck teaches us about trusting God when our plans fall apart
• How living faithfully can give Christians influence with people around them
• Why Christians should be prepared to explain the Gospel clearly
• Stories from the Christian world you may have missed
• The Dad Joke of the Day
• Faith Between Our Ears: Jeremiah 9:24
• Your Next Step: Be ready when someone asks you questions about Jesus

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement and a little fun along the way.

What happens when God gives you a calling that seems far bigger than anything you could accomplish on your own?

Rabbi Kirt Schneider of Discovering the Jewish Jesus joins Steve to share the remarkable story behind Jews.com—a massive outreach designed to introduce Jewish people to Jesus as Messiah.

Rabbi Kirt shares the extraordinary story of how he believes God called him to take the Gospel more directly into the Jewish community. That calling eventually led to an unexpected opportunity: acquiring the domain Jews.com and using it as the centerpiece of an evangelistic campaign now reaching into New York City.

With Jews.com appearing on billboards and advertising throughout the city, the goal is simple: spark enough curiosity for Jewish people to visit the website and consider Jesus and the Messianic prophecies for themselves. Kirt also explains how Christians can use Jews.com as a simple tool for beginning conversations with Jewish friends about Jesus.

Also on today’s Steve Marston Show, Steve remembers evangelist David Ring, whose powerful testimony of living with cerebral palsy while faithfully pointing people to Jesus impacted countless lives. Steve reflects on David’s unforgettable message and the Christian hope of resurrection.

Then, in Seek & Find, we head to 1 Kings 12 and the division of Israel’s kingdom. Who was the man of God who delivered the message that helped prevent a war between Judah and Israel? Your assignment is to seek and find the answer in 1 Kings 12:22–24.

Plus, stories you may have missed, including Conceivable, Tauren Wells on ministry pressure and spiritual restoration, Lady A and Boyz II Men collaborating on music inspired by The Chosen, and a church celebrating hundreds of baptisms.

And we continue putting Jeremiah 9:24 between our ears as this week’s memory verse.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily journey in learning how to live more like Jesus—with biblical teaching, conversations with people God is working through, encouragement, faith, culture…and the occasional dad joke.

What does it look like to actually live out your faith—not just talk about it?

On today’s Steve Marston Show, Steve challenges the idea that God’s primary goal is simply for us to be happy. True joy runs deeper than circumstances. It comes through trusting God, obeying His Word, and leaving the consequences to Him.

Then, in “That’s Not in the Bible,” Steve tackles another common misconception: Is money really the root of all evil? What does Scripture actually say about wealth, possessions, greed, and our dependence on God?

Plus, Emerson Collins from Focus on the Family joins Steve to talk about Bring Your Bible to School Day on October 1. What began in 2014 with thousands of students has grown into a nationwide event involving more than a million participants. Emerson shares encouraging stories of students boldly living out their faith and explains what students and educators can do in public schools.

Also in this episode:

• Why obedience matters more than chasing happiness
• What the Bible really teaches about money and possessions
• How students can live out their faith at school
• The importance of being “doers of the Word”
• News from for KING & COUNTRY
• J.R.R. Tolkien’s upcoming honor at Westminster Abbey
• Faith Between Our Ears: Jeremiah 9:24
• And, of course, the Dad Joke of the Day

The Steve Marston Show is a daily journey in learning how to live more like Jesus—with biblical teaching, conversations with people God is working through, encouragement, and a little fun along the way.

Why does Bible teaching recorded decades ago continue reaching—and changing—people all over the world?

Steve Marston sits down with Steve Shwetz of Through the Bible with Dr. J. Vernon McGee for a fascinating conversation about the remarkable reach of a ministry that continues to thrive nearly 40 years after Dr. McGee’s death.

Steve Shwetz shares how Through the Bible continues introducing new generations to Scripture, reaching listeners on more than 1,600 radio stations in the U.S. and Canada while also taking biblical teaching around the globe. They discuss the ministry’s app, listener testimonies, the World Prayer Team, translating Dr. McGee’s teaching into smaller languages, and the surprising ways God is opening doors again in Western Europe.

Steve also tackles an important question sparked by a listener comment: What’s the difference between sharing your faith and forcing your faith on someone? Looking at Jesus and the rich young ruler, Steve explains why genuine faith cannot be coerced—and why giving someone an opportunity to hear about Jesus is different from forcing belief.

Plus, it’s Monday, which means Sunday Morning Takeaways, including lessons about loving our enemies, bearing spiritual fruit, avoiding complacency after a victory, and remembering that God delights in His people.

Also in this episode:

• Billy Corgan of Smashing Pumpkins talks about his Christian faith and belief in Jesus
• Natalie Grant discusses the opportunities and dangers of artificial intelligence for the Church and Christian music
• A controversy involving C.S. Lewis’s family and the upcoming Chronicles of Narnia adaptation
• The Dad Joke of the Day
• A new Faith Between Your Ears memory verse: Jeremiah 9:24
• An invitation to expand your prayer life by praying for believers and ministries around the world

Your Next Step: Pray for someone outside your normal circle today. Ask God to broaden your vision beyond your own needs and show you how He is working around the world.

What are the rules of Sunday School that everybody knows—but nobody actually wrote down?

On this episode of The Steve Marston Show, Steve debuts a brand-new Friday feature: The Unwritten Rules. First up: the 7 Unwritten Rules of Sunday School—from the person who says, “I know we’re out of time, but…” to the unexpected calling of the church’s newest Donut Ministry Director. And, of course, there’s the most sacred rule of all: that’s MY seat.

But there’s plenty of substance along with the fun.

Steve reflects on an observation from Brant Hansen about discipleship and why the good news of Jesus isn’t only about what happens after we die. Following Christ changes the way we live right here and right now—how we forgive, love our enemies, find peace and purpose, and participate in God’s Kingdom today.

Then Adam Holz from Plugged In joins Steve for the weekly look at entertainment and pop culture, including new movies, Marvel, Wolverine, family entertainment, and the questions surrounding the upcoming Chronicles of Narnia adaptation.

Plus, Steve shares updates from the Christian world, including Anne Wilson’s “My Jesus” story heading to the big screen, the latest from Ben Sasse, and a look at Awake Houston and its call for Christians to take the Great Commission seriously.

And because it’s Friday, there’s a dad joke too.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily journey in learning how to live more like Jesus—with biblical truth, conversations, encouragement, culture, and a little fun along the way.

What happens when a pastor becomes more of a celebrity than a shepherd?

On today’s Steve Marston Show, Steve takes a closer look at celebrity pastor culture and the dangers that can emerge when ministry success, influence, speaking opportunities, and public recognition begin separating pastors from the local churches they were called to serve. Using the recent discussion surrounding Steve Lawson as a starting point, Steve considers why isolation can create serious spiritual vulnerabilities—and why accountability matters for every Christian leader.

Then, on Seek & Find, we head into the book of Joel. It may be only three chapters long, but its message is enormous: repentance, judgment, restoration, and the coming Day of the Lord. What can this often-overlooked Minor Prophet teach Christians about being ready for Christ?

Steve also revisits a conversation with Jim Scudder Jr., pastor of Quentin Road Baptist Church and Bible teacher on InGrace, about his book The Spiritual War Against Israel: Defending Biblical Zionism and Understanding Israel’s Place in God’s Prophetic Plan. Scudder explains his biblical case for Zionism, God's covenant promises to Israel, his dispensational understanding of prophecy, and why he believes Christians should love and support Jewish people.

Plus, Steve catches you up on encouraging stories from the Christian world, including hundreds of baptisms at a North Carolina church, a historic Samaritan’s Purse DC-8 finding a new home at Liberty University, and an innovative project bringing the Gospel of Luke to deaf audiences through American Sign Language.

And, of course, there’s a Dad Joke of the Day and another opportunity to put God’s Word between your ears with Isaiah 53:5.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement—and a little fun along the way.

Hear the show on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock, AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you listen to podcasts.

Visit SteveMarstonShow.com for more episodes, conversations, and resources.

Is that voice in your head God’s conviction—or simply guilt and condemnation?

On this episode of The Steve Marston Show, Steve breaks down an important part of Christian discernment: learning to recognize the difference between the voice that drives you toward shame and the conviction that calls you back into a right relationship with God.

Steve shares a personal example from his years as a young husband and father, when he felt enormous pressure to conduct the “perfect” family devotional. Over time, he discovered that biblical discipleship in the home is bigger than checking off a devotional box—it’s about making conversations about God part of everyday life.

Plus, in That’s Not in the Bible, Steve tackles the claim that “Jesus never said He was God.” What did Jesus mean when He declared, “Before Abraham was, I am”? And what do His own words reveal about His identity and eternal nature?

You’ll also hear part of Steve’s conversation with author Sabrina McDonald, author of The Bible, Politics and Culture: A Biblical Worldview Guide for Christian Women. They discuss why Christians need to know not only what they believe, but why they believe it, the reliability of Scripture, biblical worldview, family, culture, and the importance of allowing Scripture—not culture—to shape our thinking.

Also in this episode:

• Jessica Simpson talks about faith and being “born again”
• Nick Vujicic’s story comes to theaters in No Limbs, No Limits
• New research examines Christians, forgiveness, and self-forgiveness
• The Dad Joke of the Day
• Faith Between Our Ears: Isaiah 53:5
• Your Next Step: practice discernment and learn to separate God’s voice from the noise

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement—and a little fun along the way.

Hear the show on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock, AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you listen to podcasts.

Helping You Live More Like Jesus.

What happens when a Christian blows it—publicly or privately?

On this episode of The Steve Marston Show, Steve looks at a very public mistake by Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss and uses it to tackle a question every follower of Jesus eventually faces: What do you do when your actions don’t match the faith you profess? You can’t undo what happened, but repentance, humility, forgiveness, and making things right can determine what happens next.

Steve also shares his Sunday Morning Takeaway from the book of James: Is what you say you believe actually changing your life? Genuine faith isn’t merely something we profess—it should increasingly become visible in the way we live, respond to trials, and follow Jesus.

Then Steve sits down with Galan Hughes, a Missions and Growth Team pastor in Benton, Arkansas. Galan shares his testimony, how he discovered the difference between simply inheriting a family religion and developing a personal faith in Jesus, and how God ultimately called him into vocational ministry. He also explains how churches can move beyond simply trying to get people into the building and instead partner with local ministries to meet people where they already are.

Plus, Steve weighs in on the controversy surrounding the new adaptation of The Chronicles of Narnia and the reported casting of Meryl Streep as the voice of Aslan—and asks whether Christians might want to wait and see before assuming the worst.

Also in this episode: news about House of David, a listener from Bangladesh, the Dad Joke of the Day, Isaiah 53:5, and details about the upcoming 250-subscriber YouTube giveaway.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast Helping You Live More Like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement—and a little fun along the way.

Hear the show on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock, AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you listen to podcasts.

What has control of your thoughts?

On this episode of The Steve Marston Show, Steve starts with country music star Lainey Wilson and a message she recently shared about faith, our thought lives, gratitude, and the biblical call to renew our minds. It opens up a bigger conversation about what it means to intentionally follow Jesus—not simply on Sunday, but in the everyday battles that happen between our ears.

Plus, it’s Friday, which means there’s plenty of faith and fun.

Steve dives into a hilarious Babylon Bee list of “trap questions” husbands should supposedly know how to answer, and Adam Holtz from Plugged In joins the show to talk about what families need to know about the latest movies and entertainment.

Adam and Steve discuss Daniel and the Fiery Furnace, Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom, the increasing use of witchcraft and occult themes in family entertainment, and several movies headed to theaters this fall. They also talk about why Christian parents can use biblical movies as an opportunity to open the Bible with their kids and compare what appears on screen with what Scripture actually says.

Then Steve shares several faith stories you may have missed, including an American Idol finalist who says an encounter after a concert gave her an opportunity to share the Gospel with an 80-year-old lifelong atheist.

And don’t forget: when The Steve Marston Show reaches 250 YouTube subscribers, Steve is giving away a premium John MacArthur Study Bible!

Also in this episode: the Dad Joke of the Day, a Pastor Appreciation Lunch story involving an unfortunate Emmitt Smith mix-up, and Faith Between Our Ears with Isaiah 53:5.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast focused on Helping You Live More Like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement—and a little fun along the way.

Listen on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock, AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you listen to podcasts.

Visit SteveMarstonShow.com for more episodes, conversations and the FREE Five Tips for Bible Study PDF.

What if you knew Jesus was coming back by the end of this week? Would He find you living for His purposes—or mostly pursuing your own?

On this episode of The Steve Marston Show, Steve asks a challenging discipleship question: Are you becoming the follower of Jesus that He has called you to be? Steve shares part of his own story of pursuing a career dream, watching it fall apart, and eventually realizing that surrendering his plans to God opened the door to what God actually wanted him to do.

We also hear your Sunday Morning Takeaways, including lessons about standing firm in faith, making your life count, walking in God’s will, the parable of the sower, and Paul’s emotional farewell to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20.

Then Steve talks with Emmanuel Osire, a national speaker for Operation Christmas Child, who received an Operation Christmas Child shoebox as a boy growing up in Uganda. During a season of poverty, scarcity, and family hardship, that simple gift became a powerful reminder to Emmanuel that God knew him, loved him, and had not abandoned him. Today, he travels the United States sharing how something as simple as a shoebox can make an eternal difference in a child's life.

Plus, Steve shares the remarkable story of a Bible page recovered from the wreckage of Ground Zero, looks at Kirk Cameron's biblical five-part test for evaluating claims of modern-day apostles and spiritual leaders, delivers the Dad Joke of the Day, and introduces this week's Faith Between Our Ears verse: Isaiah 53:5.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast helping you live more like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement, and a little fun along the way.

Hear the show on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock, AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you listen to podcasts.

On this episode of The Steve Marston Show, Steve reflects on September 11, 2001—where he was when the attacks happened, the fear and uncertainty Americans experienced that day, and the remarkable unity that followed on September 12. For a generation that didn't live through 9/11, Steve explains why remembering the events—and the people who responded with courage and sacrifice—still matters.

Adam Holtz from Plugged In joins Steve to share his own memories of 9/11 and discuss how parents can help younger generations understand a day they know only as history. They also look at how movies have helped preserve the story of September 11 and discuss the theatrical return of The Passion of the Christ, its powerful depiction of Jesus' sacrifice, and whether its graphic realism is appropriate for younger viewers.

Steve also revisits Billy Graham's powerful message to the nation following the attacks, including Graham's words about evil, suffering, our need for one another, the uncertainty of life, and the hope of eternity through faith in Christ. It's a reminder that even in some of life's darkest moments, our ultimate hope is found in Jesus.

Plus, it's Friday—which means a little fun with a Babylon Bee Review, the Dad Joke of the Day, and Faith Between Our Ears, featuring 1 Peter 5:5 and the call to humble ourselves before God and trust His timing.

The Steve Marston Show is a daily Christian radio show and podcast Helping You Live More Like Jesus through biblical teaching, Christian discipleship, faith and culture conversations, interviews, encouragement—and a little fun along the way.

Hear the show weekdays on 99.5 The Word in Little Rock and AM 630 The Word in San Antonio, and wherever you listen to podcasts.