The Best of Exploring the Word: It's Fire Away Friday!
May 22, 2026
00:50:19
On Exploring The Word, we provide a vast understanding of the principles of Christianity as we discuss the core questions of Christian Faith. We answer questions such as: Is Jesus, God? Why do I need to be saved? What does that even mean? Is Heaven a real place? Hell? What do you mean by Grace? Etc. Join us each weekday at 3:05 pm CT as we discuss these topics and more.
On Exploring The Word, we provide a vast understanding of the principles of Christianity as we discuss the core questions of Christian Faith. We answer questions such as: Is Jesus, God? Why do I need to be saved? What does that even mean? Is Heaven a real place? Hell? What do you mean by Grace? Etc. Join us each weekday at 3:05 pm CT as we discuss these topics and more.
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💬 Show Notes
In this episode of Exploring the Word, join hosts Bert Harper and Alex McFarland for another enlightening Fire Away Freddie. They tackle listener-submitted Bible questions, offering biblical insights and godly wisdom. From discussing the significance of knowing loved ones in heaven to the importance of being a godly parent, this episode is packed with encouraging truths and practical advice. Tune in to deepen your understanding of scripture and grow in your faith!
Chapters:
(00:00) Fire Away Friday is your chance to ask us your bible question
(04:26) Bert Harper: God gave us life, then salvation and then service
(08:36) Will I know my loved ones in heaven
(14:01) Preborn Network aims to have 11,000 gospel conversations in preborn clinics
(15:54) Bert and Alex answer questions from books they have written
(17:53) What does it mean for a Christian to backslide
(23:18) Alex: Jesus still loves you, but he wants you to turn back
(25:09) Well, Bert, may I transition to book number two? Go right ahead. That's the, uh, blue book, right
(25:29) Bert Harper: Being a godly parent is example
(30:17) What should our top priorities be in family life? Time management, Alex
(33:04) Is Jesus really going to return? Alex McFarland
(37:59) : There are many questions about Israel and end times prophecy
(46:19) Has the church replaced Israel? Has God cast away his people
(49:39) Have you accepted Christ? Have you been born again
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
Exploring the Word
https://afr.net/exploring-the-word
100 Bible Questions and Answers
https://resources.afa.net
100 Bible Questions and Answers for Families
https://resources.afa.net
100 Bible Questions and Answers on Prophecy
https://resources.afa.net
💬 Show Notes
In this episode of Exploring the Word, we celebrate Thunder Thursday by tackling a variety of listener questions about faith, scripture, and the Christian life. From the meaning of love in the context of obedience to God, to understanding the role of the Antichrist, our hosts provide insightful answers grounded in biblical teachings. Join us for a deep dive into the scriptures as we explore the importance of prayer, the chosen people of Israel, and the nature of gender in heaven. Don't miss this engaging discussion filled with wisdom and encouragement!
Chapters:
(00:00) The number to call with your Bible question is 888-589-8840
(03:31) Barry from Texas asks question about love and obedience to God
(08:48) If the Antichrist is alive or when he gets here, is he gonna know
(15:04) Larry from Kansas calls with a prayer request for knee healing
(17:07) Alex: Why doesn't everybody talk about John 3:16
(19:46) Laura in Oklahoma has a question about the Jewish people in the Bible
(21:56) Laura: When you're chosen, there's a purpose behind the choosing
(25:21) Willie in North Carolina. How are you doing, sir
(25:56) Willie: God is eternal, and Satan is not eternal
(27:12) First Corinthians chapter 15 deals with the baptism for the dead
(31:30) Preborn Network aims to have 11,000 gospel conversations in preborn clinics
(33:20) Alex: Kirk, how do you explain unequally yoked marriage
(38:08) John: I'm of oneness doctrine and the Trinitarians I talked to
(40:48) Let's go to Mississippi Cherry in Mississippi. Are you there? I am. Welcome. Thanks for calling. I usually reach out by email
(41:12) Someone made the comment that there are no genders in heaven
(44:55) Raoul: Some brothers don't believe in the praying in tongues
(48:14) Alex: Let's try to get one more question for Sean
(48:28) Someone attempted to boil John in oil, and it didn't kill him
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
C.S. Wlsie
https://www.cslewis.com
Romans
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans
Ephesians
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians
Jon 3:16
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203%3A16
Psalm 56:3
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2056%3A3
1 Jon
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20John
Galatians
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians
💬 Show Notes
Exploring the Word: Ephesians Unpacked In this enlightening episode of Exploring the Word, hosts Alex McFarland and Bert Harper dive deep into the rich teachings of Ephesians chapter 2. They explore the transformative power of God's grace, emphasizing the profound truth that believers have been made alive in Christ, moving from death to life through faith.
Join Alex and Bert as they discuss the contrast between our past lives and our new identity in Christ. They highlight the importance of understanding our new nature and the call to walk in the fullness of God's mercy and love. With engaging insights and scriptural references, the hosts encourage listeners to embrace their identity as children of God, created for good works and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
This episode also features listener calls, where questions about faith, scripture, and personal experiences are addressed, providing a rich tapestry of community engagement and spiritual growth. Tune in to discover how the truths of Ephesians can impact your life today!
00:00 Exploring the Word takes your Bible questions live on American Family Radio
00:16 </Alex McFarland and Bert Harper discuss Ephesians chapter two
03:08 </Bert North: Without Jesus Christ, you are dead spiritually
09:16 </No longer. Live in the presence. The redemption that came through Jesus Christ
09:39 </Alex McFarland explores the Word in Ephesians chapter two
13:56 </The AFR app is a powerful tool, but it does have limitations
14:50 </Bird and Alex will take questions Thursday on Exploring the Word
21:53 </Let's talk about grace. Our salvation has been offered to us through God
26:29 </Alex: Verse 10 says we are his workmanship created in Christ Jesus
32:32 </Alex McFarland coming out to promote revival on June 20th
39:40 </Ephesians 2:1 through 10 is the model for sharing Christ
41:26 </Steve: I think the prince in Ezekiel offers sacrifices in the millennial temple
44:00 </We're going to go to Megan in Iowa to pray for her
47:49 </Can you talk about the hornet and what that means in Scripture
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
Ephesians (Book)
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+1&version=NIV
Alex McFarland
https://alexmcfarland.com
Bert Harper
https://www.afa.net/the-afa-foundation/bert-harper/
💬 Show Notes
In this episode, we explore the profound teachings found in the book of Ephesians, focusing on the glory of God and the eternal purpose He has for each believer. Join hosts Bert Harper and Dr. Alex McFarland as they delve into themes of redemption, purpose, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Discover how God's eternal plans shape our daily lives and how His promises provide assurance and hope in challenging times.
Chapters:
(00:00) American Family Radio takes your Bible questions live on American Family Radio
(00:16) Three times Paul praises God in the book of Ephesians
(01:03) Burt Harper believes God has an eternal purpose for every Christian
(04:14) Burt Harper: Ephesians chapter 1 talks about purpose and will
(11:32) Paul was traveling through Asia Minor before the Macedonian call
(12:44) Keep your walk with God consistent with daily, weekly devotions
(14:51) Alex McFarland and Bert Harper discuss salvation in Ephesians
(17:23) Alex Ward: The Bible is the sure word of God, of avest
(22:26) Bert: Oswald Chambers says vigilantly believe what is true
(26:01) Alec: One of the great blessings of being a Christian is knowing scripture
(31:11) Today's the day of prayer. Preborn needs you to help speak the truth
(33:34) Jennifer from Arkansas calls with a prayer request for her daughter Danielle
(35:04) Question today is about the role of the Father in our salvation
(40:07) Susan asks for prayer for her husband with rare and unusual cancer
(43:41) Burt: Thank you so much for your prayers for caregivers
(46:04) Alex: I do not think a born again believer could accidentally unknowingly take mark
(48:10) Ethan says mom's body has responded well to chemotherapy treatments
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
InterVarsity Press
https://ivpress.com
Gary Friessen
https://ivpress.com/decision-making-and-the-will-of-god
Oswald Chambers
https://utmost.org
Peter Rosenberger
https://hopeforthecaregiver.com
Introduction to Ephesians: Ephesians 1:1-9
💬 Show Notes
In this episode, we embark on a journey through the Book of Ephesians with hosts Alex McFarland and Bert Harper. They delve into the rich theological themes of this NewSong Testament book, exploring the wealth we have in Christ and how it informs our daily walk as believers. Join them as they discuss key verses, the significance of grace, and the importance of understanding our identity in Christ. This enlightening conversation is filled with insights that will deepen your understanding of Scripture and strengthen your faith.
Chapters:
(00:00) American Family Radio takes your Bible questions live on American Family Radio
(00:17) Alex McFarland and Bert Harper discuss Ephesians on American Family Radio
(04:55) Alex: No matter who you are, salvation is possible through grace
(11:13) Bertrand Russell: Ephesians is three times that long
(15:05) Bird and Alex discuss the 250th year anniversary prayer meeting in Washington
(20:23) All of the core foundations of Christianity have been under attack recently
(25:07) Alex: Redemption through Jesus' blood, forgiveness through his grace
(31:37) Bert Harper: American Family Radio Network continues to grow
(33:22) Kenneth from Texas believes the War of Gog and Magog is different
(37:52) John seemed to have a special relationship with Jesus, Alex says
(40:03) Alex has a question about whether anger and fear are a sin
(44:12) Gary from North Carolina has a question about the Geneva Bible
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
Ephesians
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians&version=NIV
Alex McFarland
https://www.alexmcfarland.com
Bert Harper
https://www.afa.net/the-afa-foundation/bert-harper
Jonathan Edwards
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonathan_Edwards
Jon MacArthur
https://www.gty.org
Fire Away Friday May 15, 2026
Instructions and Greetings: Titus 3: 9-15
💬 Show Notes
Exploring the Word: The Book of TitusIn this episode of Exploring the Word, join Bert Harper and Dr. Alex McFarland as they delve into the profound teachings found in the Book of Titus. They explore the importance of godliness, the roles of church leaders, and the call for believers to live out their faith in practical ways. As they wrap up this brief but impactful letter, they emphasize the need for unity, the rejection of divisive behavior, and the significance of good works in the life of a Christian.
Through engaging discussions, they highlight the three R's of holiness: remind, renew, and reject, drawing from the scripture to challenge listeners to reflect on their own lives as witnesses of Christ. With insightful commentary and thoughtful analysis, this episode serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with faith and the importance of encouraging one another in the journey of discipleship.
Listeners are invited to call in with their Bible questions, making this an interactive and enriching experience for all. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of God's Word and its application in your daily life!
Introduction to the Book of Titus
Living Out Our Faith
The Three R's of Holiness
Unity and the Rejection of Division
Encouragement for Good Works
Listener Call-In Segment
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
Preborn Network Clinic
https://preborn.com
G. Campbell Morgan
https://www.ccel.org/ccel/morgan/gcampbell/gcampbell.html
Billy Graham
https://billygraham.org
Campus Crusade for Christ (now Cru)
https://www.cru.org
Grateful Godly Living: Titus 2:11 - 3:8
💬 Show Notes
In this episode, we delve into the powerful message of grace and godliness as outlined in the Book of Titus. Join hosts Alex McFarland and Dylan Burroughs as they explore the implications of living a life transformed by faith, the importance of good works, and the hope of Christ's return. This enlightening discussion will inspire listeners to reflect on their spiritual journey and the impact of God's word in their lives.
Chapters:
(00:00) American Family Radio takes your Bible questions live on American Family Radio
(00:17) Alex McFarland: Exploring the word in Titus 2:11
(01:42) We're going to start off in Titus 2 where we left off yesterday
(07:43) Alex Titus: Verse 13 says looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing
(14:54) The Ten Commandments Speech Challenge is for children and youth ages 7 to 17
(20:00) Titus chapter three reminds us to be subject to rulers and authorities
(23:28) Paul says when you follow Christ, those foolish, disobedient deeds are past
(29:07) Paul reminds Titus that without Jesus, we're lost
(31:17) Preborn Network of clinics offers free ultrasounds to women in crisis
(32:47) Tomorrow is the birthday of the reborn State of Israel
(34:06) Marcina from Tennessee shares her thoughts on John 10:16
(38:28) Lisa is asking for prayer for her niece that she would receive salvation
(39:44) Dylan: How extensive is the gospel and the impact of Christ
(42:33) Brent: Let me encourage people everywhere to pray for this young generation
(45:45) Steve in Missouri comes up with new lie about hyper grace
(46:42) Brent Austin: Dylan raises the issue of hyper grace on American Family Radio
✍️ Episode References
The Bible
https://www.biblegateway.com/
American Family Radio
https://afr.net/
Alex McFarland
https://www.alexmcfarland.com/
Dylan Burroughs
https://www.dylanburroughs.com/
Thomas Aquinas
https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/aquinas/
💬 Show Notes
In this episode of Exploring the Word, hosts Alex McFarland and Dylan Burroughs dive into the rich teachings of the Book of Titus. They discuss the importance of sound doctrine, the qualifications of church leaders, and the responsibilities of different groups within the church. As they explore key verses, they encourage listeners to reflect on their own faith and how to effectively pass it on to future generations. Additionally, the hosts take prayer requests, sharing heartfelt stories of faith and community support.
Chapters:
(00:00) American Family Radio takes your Bible questions live on American Family Radio
(00:17) On Tuesdays, we take prayer requests; always welcome Bible questions
(01:41) Alex welcomes back contributor Dylan Burroughs to talk about Titus
(02:27) 21 of the 27 New Testament books are epistles in some form
(06:46) There are those in the church that sometimes defile the teachings of God
(15:08) American Family Radio is offering the Ten Commandments Speech Challenge
(16:13) Alex: Dylan, we start with chapter two of Titus 2:2
(25:44) Dylan : Titus 2 calls us to model Christ likeness to others
(31:30) Preborn network clinics offer free ultrasounds to women facing unplanned pregnancies
(34:20) Let's take some more prayer requests before we first pray
(35:23) Susan in Indiana has nephew having brain surgery for cancer
(36:24) Michael's son is undergoing a major surgery right now
(37:54) Maryann in Kentucky asks for prayers for her parents after an affair
(40:47) Michael in Louisiana needs prayer for care of his sick mother
(44:39) Nathan in Arkansas has a prayer request for us
(46:20) Angie is retiring to care for her husband who has dementia and Alzheimer's
(47:03) Let's pray for caregivers,and there are many
(48:55) Dylan asks for prayers for his son who has been in a serious accident
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
The Bible
https://www.biblegateway.com/
Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
https://www.5lovelanguages.com/
James 3:1
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%203%3A1&version=NIV
Galatians 5:22
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians%205%3A22&version=NIV
Opening Words: Titus 1-13
💬 Show Notes
In this episode of Exploring the Word, join Alex McFarland and Dylan Burroughs as they delve into the rich content of the Book of Titus, one of the Apostle Paul's last letters. With just three chapters, this epistle is packed with profound truths that resonate deeply in today's culture.
As they explore the opening verses, they discuss the significance of Paul's greeting to Titus and the foundational truths of the Christian faith. The conversation shifts to the qualifications for church leaders, emphasizing the importance of character over external appearances. Listeners are reminded that the heart of a leader is paramount in fulfilling their role within the church.
Throughout the episode, they address the contemporary challenges facing the church, including the shortage of pastors and the importance of strong, godly leadership. With engaging dialogue and biblical insights, Alex and Dylan encourage believers to consider their own roles in ministry and the impact they can have on the next generation.
To wrap up, they take listener calls, answering questions about prayer, church leadership, and the interpretation of biblical prophecy. This episode is a powerful reminder of the timeless relevance of Scripture and the call to live out our faith actively.
Introduction to the Book of Titus
Paul's Greeting and Gospel Truths
Qualifications for Church Leaders
Contemporary Church Challenges
Listener Calls and Questions
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
The Book of Titus
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Titus&version=ESV
Alex McFarland
https://alexmcfarland.com
Dylan Burroughs
https://dylanburroughs.com
The Ten Commandments Project
https://afr.net/ten-commandments-project
James Dobson
https://drjamesdobson.org
First Timothy
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Timothy&version=ESV
Second Timothy
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Timothy&version=ESV
First Peter
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Peter&version=ESV
Proverbs
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs&version=ESV
It's Fire Away Friday! May 8, 2026
✍️ Episode References
Isaiah 57:15
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+57%3A15&version=ESV
James 4:8
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James+4%3A8&version=ESV
Charles Spurgeon
https://www.spurgeon.org/
Jesus Revolution (movie)
https://www.jesusrevolution.movie/
Leadership And Worship: Numbers 27:12 - 29:40
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
Bert Harper
https://www.afa.net/the-afa-store/bert-harper
Dr. Alex McFarland
https://alexmcfarland.com
The Bible
https://www.biblegateway.com
Preparation For The Promise: Numbers 24 - 27:11
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
Preborn
https://preborn.com
Philippians
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians+2&version=NIV
Numbers
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Numbers&version=NIV
Genesis
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+12&version=NIV
A Day of Prayer & When A Donkey Is Wiser Than A Man: Numbers 21:21 - 23:25
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
National Day of Prayer
https://nationaldayofprayer.org
Erick Stackelbeck
https://stackelbeckondefense.com
The Bible
https://www.biblegateway.com
Activate Summit
https://activate.afa.net/summit
Dr. Jessica Peck and Our Continuing Study of the Book of Numbers
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
Activate Summit
https://activate.aca.net
Dr. Nurse Mama
https://drnursemama.com
Proverbs
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs&version=NIV
Acts
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts&version=NIV
Job
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job&version=NIV
Billy Graham
https://billygraham.org
Dr. James Dobson
https://www.drjamesdobson.org
It's Fire Away Friday!
The Best of Exploring The Word: Romans 8
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://www.afa.net/american-family-radio/
PreBorn
https://preborn.com/
Romans 8
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8&version=NIV
Joni Eareckson Tada
https://www.joniandfriends.org/
A Day of Prayer & Sin And It's Consequences In The Wilderness: Numbers 19 - 20:21
✍️ Episode References
American Family Radio
https://afr.net
The Bible
https://www.biblegateway.com
Preborn
https://preborn.com
The Best of Exploring the Word: Things That Make a Good Church
Authority and Responsibilities: Numbers 17 & 18
