On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa is joined by theologian and author Dr. Preston Sprinkle for a deep dive into Romans 16 and the remarkable stories of three women who played significant roles in the early church: Phoebe, Priscilla, and Junia. Together, they unpack the leadership, influence, and ministry of these women and explore what their stories reveal about women’s roles in the early church and the spread of the Gospel. So grab a cup of coffee, pull up a chair, and join us on the back porch!

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES 

Romans 16:1-7 Romans 8 Acts 2 Romans 15 Romans 9-11 Romans 14-15 Romans 1 Romans 2 John 13 Matthew 22 Mark 10 Philippians 2 Romans 16:23 Acts 18:25-26 Romans 16:7 1 Chronicles 22:8 Romans 8:1

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison are joined by New Testament scholar and Anglican priest Dr. Michael Bird for a lively dive into the book of Acts. Together, they explore the inseparable connection between Luke and Acts, the significance of Jesus’ ascension, and the Holy Spirit’s powerful work through ordinary believers as the early church quite literally turned the world upside down. So pull up a chair and join us on the porch! 

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES: 

Acts 20:7-12  Acts 1:8-10  Genesis 1  Psalm 8  Daniel 7  Acts 2:41-45 Acts 17 Acts 13 Acts 2:17-21 Acts 5:40-41 Acts 8:26-40 

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa & Allison welcome Raechel Myers and Amanda Bible Williams from She Reads Truth for a rich conversation through the Gospel of John. Together, they explore what it means to move beyond treating the Bible as a rule book and instead encounter it as an invitation to know the Living Word—Jesus Himself. From abiding in Christ to the power of God's living and active Word, this episode is a reminder that Scripture is meant to transform us, not just inform us. Grab your Bible and pull up a chair - we're so glad you're here.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:

Hebrews 4:12 John 15:4 John 13-17 Hebrews 5:7

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison explore the Gospel of Luke, focusing on Jesus' heart for the misfits, the marginalized, and those often overlooked. Luke reveals a Savior who consistently moves toward the overlooked, the broken, and the unlikely with compassion, mercy, and grace. If you've ever felt unseen, like you don't quite fit in, or questioned whether God could really delight in you, this conversation will remind you that Jesus has always made room for people just like us. So come hang out with us on the porch—we've saved you a seat.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES: 

Luke 8:1-3  Luke 16:19-24  Luke 18:9-14   Luke 7:11-17  Luke 13:10-17  Psalm 139:1-18  Luke 15:11-32  

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison welcome Dr. Scot McKnight, Dr. Lynn Cohick, and Dr. Michael Bird for a rich conversation on the Gospel of Mark. Together they show why the cross doesn't contradict Jesus' identity as the Messiah—it confirms it. If you've ever wondered how God brings hope through suffering, this episode will encourage you to see the cross as the ultimate expression of His love and victory. So grab a cuppa, your Bible, and come hang out on the porch with us.

 

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES: 

1 Corinthians 15  Mark 9:1 Mark 8:27-9:1-12 Mark 14:66-69 Psalm 110:1 Daniel 7:13  Mark 10:45 Mark 7:24-30 Mark 9  Mark 10:13–16

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison sit down with Kyle Hebert to discuss his remarkable journey from incarceration at Angola State Penitentiary to a life transformed by Jesus. Together, they explore key themes in the Gospel of Matthew, including forgiveness, mercy, the Beatitudes, and the redemptive power of God's grace. Grab your Bible and come hang out on the porch.

 

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES: 

Matthew 5:1-10  Matthew 6:14-15  Matthew 18:21 Matthew 18:15-17 Matthew 18:27

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison head into Ezra and Nehemiah and discover that sometimes God's greatest miracles aren't dramatic moments of rescue—they're the long, faithful work of rebuilding. As God's people return from exile and begin clearing away decades of rubble, we're reminded that restoration often happens one brick, one prayer, and one act of obedience at a time. It's a timely reminder that God still brings beauty from rubble. Pull up a chair and come join us on the porch. We're so glad you're here.

Scripture References: 

Isaiah 44:26-28 Psalm 51  Ezra 10:2-3  Nehemiah 3:12 Nehemiah 4:10 Galatians 6:15 Nehemiah 2:16 Ecclesiastes 7:2 Ezekiel 37  Nehemiah 6:9

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology takes us into the often-overlooked books of First and Second Chronicles, where Lisa and Allison uncover a beautiful reminder that God is always telling a redemptive story. If you're facing circumstances that feel impossible, this conversation will encourage you to lift your eyes above your current situation and remember that God is still at work, weaving redemption into every chapter of your life. So grab your Bible, a cup of coffee, and pull up a chair on the porch. We're so glad you're here.

 

Scripture References: 

1 Chronicles 11:11-14 2 Samuel 23:9-10 2 Chronicles 20:12

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison dive into the final three Minor Prophets—Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi—and explore what it means to trust God in the gap between expectation and reality. Through disappointment, waiting, and redemptive discontent, we’re reminded that God is still at work and His promises are still true. So please grab a cup of coffee and your Bible, and come hang out on the porch with us.

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES

Haggai 1:1–5 Zechariah 4:6 Zechariah 7:1–3 Zechariah 9:9 Zechariah 14:9; 20 Matthew 21:4-5 Malachi 2:17 Malachi 3:1; 7 Malachi 4:2-3

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison are joined by Kristi McLelland for a rich conversation about the Minor Prophets, with a special focus on the book of Hosea. Together, they trace the threads of Hosea’s powerful love story—a living illustration of God's relentless pursuit of His people. While the Minor Prophets contain sobering warnings and calls to repentance, they ultimately point to a God who never gives up on His people and whose story culminates in redemption through Jesus. Pull up a chair and join us—we're so glad you're here.

Scripture References: 

Joel 2:28   Amos 5:24   Obadiah 1:21   Jonah 2:2   Micah 4:4   Nahum 1:7–8   Habakkuk 3:17   Zephaniah 3:17   Hosea 1:2–8   Hosea 2:1; 5–8; 14–20   Hosea 3:2   Hosea 6:1–3

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison journey through the book of Daniel, one of Scripture’s most compelling stories of faith under pressure. As they walk through Daniel, they explore God's sovereignty, the refining nature of trials, and the confidence that comes from knowing He is faithful to the very end. Whether you're navigating uncertainty, opposition, or a season of waiting, this conversation offers fresh hope and encouragement to keep trusting the God who never leaves our side. Grab your Bible, sweet tea, and settle in—we're so glad you're here.

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison sit down with Alex Seeley for a powerful conversation about the person and presence of the Holy Spirit through the lens of the book of Ezekiel. Together, they explore God's promise to breathe life into dry bones and what that means for believers who feel weary, discouraged, or spiritually dry. This encouraging conversation is a reminder that God still breathes life into what feels lifeless and that true revival begins with an invitation to the Holy Spirit. Pull up a chair and come hang out with us on the porch—we're so glad you're here.

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa, Allison, and Dr. Howard journey through Jeremiah and Lamentations, exploring the prophetic power of humility, obedience, and unwavering faithfulness in difficult seasons. This rich conversation reminds us that even in our deepest lamentations, God remains faithful, forgiving, and near to the brokenhearted. Pull up a chair - we're so glad you are here.

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Brooke Ligertwood dive into the beauty, depth, and prophetic hope woven throughout Isaiah. This conversation is a reminder that God is not after performance, He is after our hearts. Pull up a chair, we're so glad you are here. Book Reference: The Prophecy of Isaiah - J. Alec Motyer

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison dive into the beauty, mystery, and intimacy of Song of Solomon. Together, they explore the poetic imagery, allegorical themes, and surprising significance of female voices throughout the book, while unpacking how Song of Solomon ultimately points to the deep affection God has for His people. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, lean into the heart of God, and rest in the reality that you are fully known and deeply loved. So pull up a chair and stay awhile.

On today’s Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison dive into the wisdom literature of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, exploring the contrast between Lady Wisdom and Lady Folly and what it means to live with discernment in a complicated world. From stories about parenting and boundaries to the reminder that life is fleeting and God is faithful, this conversation is both practical and hopeful. Pull up a chair and come hang out on the porch with us!

On today’s Back Porch Theology, Lisa, Allison, and Amy Orr-Ewing explore forgiveness, repentance, and healing through Psalm 51 and the story of King David and Bathsheba. Together, they unpack why forgiveness isn’t weakness, how Scripture calls us to honestly acknowledge harm, and what it looks like to pursue healing—even in the hardest places. Pull up a chair—we’re really glad you’re here.

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison walk through the Psalms as a sacred space where every emotion is welcome. From the unresolved grief of Psalm 88 to the messianic hope of Psalm 22, they remind us that God meets us in both sorrow and praise. This episode becomes an invitation to worship with joy, freedom, and abandon. So grab your Bible, pull up a chair on the porch with us—we’re really glad you’re here.

On today’s Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison unpack the story of Job—his suffering, his questions, and his unshakable faith. Through loss, difficult conversations, and God’s final word, we’re reminded that hope and redemption are never out of reach. Settle in—we’re really glad you’re here.

A note before you start - this episode does contain some mature content, so please be aware before listening with little ears around! On today’s Back Porch Theology, Lisa, Allison, and Dr. Lynn Cohick explore the story of Esther, highlighting themes of courage, voice, and obedience. From Vashti’s bold stand to Esther’s pivotal role in saving her people, this episode reminds us how God works through both quiet faithfulness and courageous action. So pull up a chair and join us on the porch—we’re really glad you’re here.

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison explore the stories of Elijah and Elisha, along with Huldah the prophetess. Along the way, they reflect on the difference between transparency and vulnerability, the grace God shows in moments of burnout and spiritual drift, and the beautiful reminder that God can use anyone—regardless of visibility or platform—to accomplish His purposes.

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa & Allison discuss Solomon, the reflections of Ecclesiastes, and the opening chapters of 1 Kings. Though given extraordinary wisdom, Solomon’s life reveals the danger of pursuing success apart from God. The conversation also reflects on David’s costly act of worship and the deeper truth that true wisdom grows in humble hearts that remain dependent on God’s grace. Come join us on the porch—we’re so glad you’re here.

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa Harper, Allison Allen, and Dr. Joel Muddamalle unpack the major themes of 1 & 2 Samuel, including kingship, the word of God, and spiritual warfare. They discuss the rise and fall of Saul, the ascent of David, and the biblical warnings against mediums and spiritists. The conversation highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers and points to Jesus as the ultimate King and Redeemer. Grab a cup and pull up a chair—we’re so glad you’re here on the porch.

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa, Allison, and Dr. Joel Muddamalle step into the dramatic world of the books of Samuel—where tearful prayers, wise courage, and supernatural moments collide. From Hannah’s heartbreak and Abigail’s bold wisdom to Saul and David’s contrasting paths of descent and ascent, they explore how God’s Word moves through messy families and broken stories to bring restoration. Pull up a chair and join us on the porch—we’re so glad you’re here.

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa, Allison, and Kristi McLelland step into the book of Ruth—a small but radiant story shining in Israel’s dark days. They unpack misquoted Scriptures, Ruth’s surprising Moabite backstory, and Boaz’s costly kindness, revealing a powerful portrait of covenant friendship and God’s faithful provision. This episode is a reminder that God works through everyday loyalty, kindness, and community. Grab a cup and pull up a chair—we’re so glad you’re here on the porch.

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa sits down with Dr. Preston Sprinkle to dive into the book of Judges through the lives of Deborah, Jael, and Huldah—three remarkable women whose stories reveal a God who is both utterly sovereign and intimately kind. They reflect on what Scripture truly reveals about women, leadership, spiritual motherhood, and everyday influence—and how a right view of God’s smiling countenance transforms the way we live, love, and lead. Take a seat and stay awhile; we’re so glad you’re here.

On today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison unpack the book of Joshua—from Jordan River miracles and Caleb’s “give me my mountain” faith to the courage of the daughters of Zelophehad—to explore how God leads us into His promises even when we feel tired, overlooked, or passed over. This episode is a hope-filled invitation to trust that no season of waiting is wasted and that there is still an inheritance in Jesus with your name on it. Pull up a chair and join us on the porch!

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison are joined by Kristi McLelland as they explore the beauty and emotional depth of Deuteronomy, reflecting on God’s faithfulness and the loving purpose behind His instructions. With warmth and hope, they invite us to remember what God has done, trust His presence in seasons of scarcity or loneliness, and rest in the truth that we are His treasured possession. So grab a cup, pull up a chair, and settle in - we’re so glad you’re here.

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison dive into the book of Numbers, exploring its surprising themes of communication, intimacy, and God’s deeply personal care for His people, reflecting along the way on God’s mercy through the story of Moses and the bold, faithful courage of Zelophehad’s daughters. It’s a hope-filled truth that even in the wilderness, God knows His people by name and never stops drawing them close. Grab a chair and join us on the porch, we saved you a seat.

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa, Allison, and Dr. Howard invite us to see Leviticus through a surprising and grace-filled lens, not as a punitive list of rules, but as a profound love story. Together, they explore how Leviticus was designed to draw God’s people into relationship, highlighting the Day of Atonement, the heart of the Mosaic Law, and how these themes echo forward into the New Testament. It’s a thoughtful, hope-filled reminder that God’s heart has always been about dwelling with His people. So pull up a chair and join us on the porch!

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison continue their journey through Exodus in part two, diving into themes of leadership, Scripture, and the steady kindness of God’s guidance, reminding us that God’s faithfulness doesn’t depend on our perfection but on His character. So pull up a chair, grab your coffee, and join us on the porch!

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison take us back into the book of Exodus, one of the most pivotal stories in the Old Testament. Together, they unpack themes of deliverance and bondage, spotlighting the courageous midwives Shiphrah and Puah, the dramatic plagues, and the awe-filled moment at Mount Sinai when God’s glory descended in a cloud. Their conversation reminds us that the God who brought His people out of slavery is still bringing freedom and deliverance to His children today. So pull up a chair and join us on the porch! 

In today's episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa & Allison explore the story of Abraham ~ an unlikely hero chosen by God in sheer grace. Together, they unpack God’s sovereignty and grace in choosing, calling, and blessing people not because of their merit, but because of His faithfulness. So pull up a chair and join us on the porch!

On today’s episode of Back Porch Theology, Lisa and Allison walk through portions of Genesis and reflect on how Scripture consistently restores dignity where it’s been lost. Whether you’re brand new to the Bible or ready to dive deeper, this conversation sets the tone for a year of discovering that there are truly no wasted words in God’s story, so pull up a chair and join us on the porch!

In this episode of Back Porch Theology, Allison Allen and Lisa Harper kick off the first episode of 2026 and an exciting new series, No Wasted Words, as we begin walking through the whole Bible together this year. Along the way, we address common misconceptions about Scripture and share our passion for exploring its overarching themes with curiosity, joy, and reverence. Pull up a chair and join us as we step into a new year and a yearlong journey through God’s Word, opening Scripture together with honesty, curiosity, and hopeful expectation.

On today’s episode of the Back Porch, Lisa and Allison share New Year’s Eve memories, talk about gratitude, and reflect on the hope that comes from remembering God’s faithfulness. They explore the crossing of the Jordan in Joshua and the practice of creating “Ebenezer” stones to mark God’s work. Join us on the porch as we look back with gratitude and forward with hope, we’re so glad you’re here!

In this special episode from the Back Porch Theology Christmas Tour, Lisa, Allison, and Dr. Howard come together for a warm, hope-filled conversation about faith, waiting, and the meaning of Christmas. Through laughter, Scripture, and personal stories, they explore biblical waiting, from Zechariah and Elizabeth to Simeon and Anna, reminding us that waiting is never wasted and is always part of God’s story. Wrap up in a blanket, grab a warm drink, and pull up a chair ~ it’s Christmas on the porch.

In this merry-and-brightly honest episode of Back Porch Theology, Allison Allen, Lisa Harper, and Doc H swap stories from their Christmas tour aka their very first bus tour, complete with equal parts joy, Jesus, and questionable sleep schedules.  They unpack a few favorite Christmas myths ~ including the real story behind Santa ~ and trace them back to the faith-filled roots of Saint Nicholas, the wise men, and other traditions woven through the season. Grab something warm to sip, ignore the Christmas to-do list for a minute, and pull up a chair, there’s room for you on the porch.

Today on the Back Porch, Rabbi Jason sits with Lisa and Allison to journey through identity, covenant, and the God who brings life from barren ground ~ through the pages of Scripture and the pages of their lives. Grab a blanket, pour a warm cup, and come sit with us.

Today on the Back Porch, we welcome Rabbi Jason Sobel for a porch-side chat about how the threads of Scripture ~ Old and New ~ braid into one story pointing to Jesus’s divine identity and mission. We sit with His self-emptying love (kenosis), where humility becomes strength, and find ourselves drawn into shalom - the wholeness, peace, and restoration secured by the cross and resurrection. Pull up a chair and join us on the porch!

Today on the Back Porch, we’re trading ham for turkey, dressing for stuffing debates, and canned jelly for fresh cranberries as we talk all things Thanksgiving ~ and the deeper gratitude that outlasts the leftovers. We’ll name some hard seasons and the surprising ways God’s goodness has met us there, reminding us that gratitude isn’t denial ~ it’s defiant hope. Take a breather from the Thanksgiving prep, pull up a chair, and join us as we count kernels of kindness from a faithful God.

Today on the Back Porch, as we wrap Mountains & Valleys, Lisa, Allison & Dr. Howard linger on one last ridgeline: Solomon’s story. We watch the golden king step off the path, small compromises becoming idols, until a fractured heart splinters a nation. We consider why sound theology must interpret culture and how Ecclesiastes summons us to fear God and keep His commands. Press pause on the Thanksgiving hustle, pour a warm coffee, and join us on the porch.

Today on the Back Porch, buckle up for a soulful road trip. Lisa and Allison explore Psalm 84 with the sons of Korah, tracing the Valley of Baca—the valley of tears—as a map for our own hard stretches where God meets us in grief, teaches us contentment, and invites us to be fully present right where our feet are. Fill your cup with coffee or cider, wrap up in a blanket, and wander out to the leaf-strewn porch.

Today on the Back Porch, we’re visiting the Jezreel Valley, the Plain of Armageddon, where battles were fought, prophets spoke, and God proved faithful. At this fertile, strategic crossroads of history, Scripture’s conflicts ultimately point us to hope in Jesus. Pour yourself a hot cup of coffee or cider, settle into a blanket, and meet us on the fall-kissed porch.

Today on the Back Porch (Part 3 of our Mountain & Valley series), Lisa, Allison, and Dr. Jim Howard walk through the theology of peaks and valleys, from Elijah’s bold stand on Mount Carmel to his post-victory crash in 1 Kings 19.  Along the way, we explore how God meets our fatigue and grief with rest, renewal, and the gift of community. Pour yourself a cup of coffee, pull up a chair, and join us on the porch!

Today on Back Porch, Lisa and Allison continue part two of their six-part series, Mountains & Valleys, exploring how God meets us in both the highs and lows of life ~ reminding us that challenges aren’t detours but part of the journey, and that God’s promises are never dead, only fulfilled in His perfect timing. So pour yourself a cup of coffee or spiced tea, settle in, and join us on the porch!

Today on Back Porch, Lisa & Allison kick off a new six-part series Mountains & Valleys, exploring how God meets us in both the highs and lows of life. From Lisa’s 50-mile Appalachian Trail hike to Moses’ burning bush encounter, they remind us that God’s presence is steady, His covenant sure, and our journeys best walked with persistence and community. So grab a pumpkin flavored latte, pull up a chair, we’re so glad you joined us!

Today on the Back Porch, we have a special treat for you as we’re sharing a session from Kerygma this past year. Rev. Dr. Nicole Massie Martin, Chief Operating Officer at Christianity Today and founder of Soulfire International Ministries, unpacks “God’s inconvenient promises.” Through the Shunammite woman’s story, she shows how God’s unexpected healing brings shalom and how trusting His presence leads to lasting peace and restoration. You won’t want to miss this message, so grab your favorite beverage and your Bible, and join us on the porch!

During today’s conversation on the porch, Lisa, Allison, and Dr. Brian Litfin unpack the Nicene Creed, emphasizing the Trinity’s unity, the power of the resurrection, and the role of the Holy Spirit. Dr. Litfin contrasts the gospel’s hope with pagan despair, giving historical and cultural insight into Christ’s victory over sin, death, and Satan. You might be asking - How does this all apply to us today? Listen in as we discuss – right here on the porch!

Today’s conversation on Back Porch Theology is one of the best we’ve had in a while because it’s basically a dissertation on why play and celebration should be a part of every Christ-follower’s spiritual formation plan! 

While there’s no single verse proving that our Savior laughed and played during His earthly life and ministry, there are a plethora of passages that imply it like the literary. The Bible proves over and over again that Christoformity – being shaped like Jesus – isn’t always supposed to be serious and somber. Being playful can be every bit as spiritual as being prayerful. 

Today’s going to be a fun day on the porch y’all, so you might want to bring a caffeinated drink, a yummy snack, and your Bible. And try to talk one of your small group friends who thinks spiritual maturity and grumpiness are congruent into hanging out with us too, because we’re going to expose that myth as being biblically indefensible! Thanks for carving the time out of your day to be with us – we love getting to spend these moments on the porch with you.