The Boundless Show

Responding appropriately to requests for prayer, plus how our culture’s sex narrative came to be, and does location hurt her dating chances?Featured musical artist: Tauren Wells Roundtable: Responding to a Prayer RequestSome are serious, some are “unspoken,” and others are just plain awkward. Yes, we’re talking about prayer requests. As Christians, we’re called to pray for people, but how should we respond when asked to pray for that deeply personal request in our small group? What about random requests on social media? What about something we’re not sure we even agree with? Our guests share their experiences around the pain and privilege of praying for others.         Culture: Who Defines Sex, Anyway?As the world keeps “progressing” in its definition of sexuality and sexual expression, the lines between black and white are turning gray. Jeff Grenell is a passionate youth leader who reminds us that regardless of what the culture does, God’s standard for sexuality remains consistent. With clear explanations, he discusses how several sexual revolutions (some historic, some current) have affected young adults today, and how we can discern truth from lies.Inbox: Keeping Hope for MarriageShe lives in a small town and feels like there aren’t many Christian guys to choose from. She feels called to stay put, so what should she do when her options are so limited? Lisa Anderson offers a dose of encouragement.

Finding family as a single, plus pastors discuss how to respond when a Christian leader falls, and overcoming different backgrounds in dating. Featured musical artist: Zach Williams Roundtable: Finding Family as a SingleSingleness can feel lonely, but it also has unique opportunities for wonderful friendships. While you might not have found that special someone yet, you still have amazing chances to make last memories and connect with friends who feel like family. Our guests share how they’ve learned to find family as a single Christian after moving to a new town. They’ll also discuss how they’re learning to combat feelings of loneliness.       Culture: When a Pastor or Christian Leader Falls (Part 2)It’s become an all-too-common headline: another pastor caught in a scandal — whether sexual, financial, an abuse of power, or some other egregious failure. For certain followers, the news is so devastating, they walk away from the church. The rest of us are left to ask: What do I do? Are there any faithful leaders left? Can I trust my own pastor, or will he be next? We brought in a panel of pastors to answer the hard questions. In part two this week, they’ll address whether someone can be a Christian after a big moral slide, and how to respond when a leader fails us.        Inbox: Different Backgrounds in DatingShe’s dating a solid Christian guy, but wonders if their pasts disqualify them from dating? For one, he struggled with a porn addiction, which he has dealt with. Plus, her dad is skeptical that their background differences could eventually cause problems in the relationship. Counselor Patrick Hill offers hope and gives some practical thoughts.

The importance of attraction in dating, plus pastors discuss how to respond when a Christian leader falls, and navigating post-college regrets. Featured musical artist: Ecclesia Roundtable: The Importance of AttractionHow attracted should you be to the person you’re dating? Does chemistry have to be there right away, or can you wait for it to grow? If so, how long do you wait before throwing in the towel? Attraction is a multi-layered thing that goes beyond liking the way someone looks. Our panel of married folks talks about how important physical attraction and chemistry was in the stages of their relationships, and gives advice for daters on what you need to know about gauging attraction in your own romantic journey. Culture: When a Pastor or Christian Leader Falls (Part 1)It’s become an all-too-common headline: another pastor caught in a scandal — whether sexual, financial, an abuse of power, or some other egregious failure. For certain followers, the news is so devastating, they walk away from the church. The rest of us are left to ask: What do I do? Are there any faithful leaders left? Can I trust my own pastor, or will he be next? We brought in a panel of pastors to answer the hard questions. In part one this week, they’ll talk about their own experiences with the effects of church scandals, and they’ll address the all-important question: Why does this stuff happen in the first place? Inbox: Did I Waste My College Years?She recently talked with her girlfriends about their time in college. As the conversation rolled on, they all felt like they had missed some great opportunities back then with dating, ministry outreach and developing deep friendships. How can she let go of these feelings of regret and move on? Lisa Anderson offers hope and advice.

Landing a great job, plus more from Greg and Michael Smalley on guys and relationships, and should your parents be involved in your love life?   Featured musical artist: Covenant Worship Roundtable: Finding Your Dream JobOne of the most intimidating journeys is the job search. You want that dream career, but questions churn in your head: How do I get hired? Will I nail or fail the interview? Will I be told I need more experience? To help settle the questions and bring practical advice, we brought in a team of hiring experts. As professionals on the lookout for great recruits, they’ll discuss how to job-hunt, network, interview, and stay positive when you feel discouraged in the process.      Culture: How Guys Do Relationships (Part 2)It’s a common perception that guys are less competent at relationships than girls. But what if that’s not the case? Marriage experts Greg Smalley and Michael Smalley compare the ways men communicate to a set of tools, and give some insights on how to use those tools efficiently. They also get real about the trials and errors of learning to communicate with the women in their lives. And ladies, if you’ve ever wondered how to talk to guys, you’ll want to tune in.      Inbox: Parents’ Involvement in DatingShe’s in her second dating relationship, but Mom and Dad always want to offer advice. It’s to a point where it feels like they’re “helicopter parents.” How can she get some peace and privacy? Counselor Jenny Coffey offers ways to respect yet set healthy boundaries with parents when you’re in a dating relationship.

Getting real about the dangers of pornography, plus Greg and Michael Smalley on guys and relationships, and advice for relating to your parents.Featured musical artist: Hollyn Roundtable: When Pornography Controls You (Part 2)According to Barna, over 60% of Christian men say they’ve viewed pornography within the last month. But before you ladies start pointing fingers, statistics also show that an increasing number of Christian women are falling prey to sexualized content and entertainment, whether online pornography or more subtle and insidious offerings like the Fifty Shades franchise. With such a pervasive problem, how can people find true freedom? In part two of a two-week discussion, our panel discusses how porn affects men and women differently, and what it means to truly defeat porn versus simply “managing” it.      For a free counseling consultation, check out Boundless.org/counselingCulture: How Guys Do Relationships (Part 1)It’s a common perception that guys are less competent at relationships than girls. But what if that’s not the case? Marriage experts Greg Smalley and Michael Smalley compare the ways men communicate to a set of tools, and give some insights on how to use those tools efficiently. They also get real about the trials and errors of learning to communicate with the women in their lives. And ladies, if you’ve ever wondered how to talk to guys, you’ll want to tune in.      Inbox: Having a Healthy Relationship With Your ParentsWhen you become an adult, maintaining a mature, respectful relationship with your parents can be a struggle. So how do you do it? Lisa Anderson weighs in with some practical tips.

Getting real about the dangers of pornography, plus Joe Rigney on winning the war against lust, and spouse-hunting in a different culture.   Featured musical artist: Lara Landon Roundtable: When Pornography Controls You (Part 1)According to Barna, over 60% of Christian men say they’ve viewed pornography within the last month. But before you ladies start pointing fingers, statistics also show that an increasing number of Christian women are falling prey to sexualized content and entertainment, whether online pornography or more subtle and insidious offerings like the Fifty Shades franchise. With such a pervasive problem, how can people find true freedom? In part one of a two-week discussion, our panel shares their stories of pornography addiction and the sad and sneaky ways the culture enables sexual bondage.Culture: It All Begins With LustWhen Joe Rigney was first exposed to pornography, he never imagined it would lead to a decade-long addiction. But once he gave sexual sin a chance, it settled in his heart for the long haul. When Joe got engaged and was on the verge of jumping into full-time ministry work, he experienced a big wake-up call. In this insightful conversation, he explains how choosing obedience started him on the long road to freedom.Inbox: Cross-Cultural Spouse SearchShe’s just moved to a new continent and is looking for a church to meet guys. However, she feels like her chances of finding a mate in her new home are slim. In such a scenario, what can she do? Lisa Anderson weighs in.

Wanting marriage vs. obsessing about it, plus Tim Ross on sharing the gospel with difficult people, and trusting God with unanswered questions.  Featured musical artist: Phil WickhamRoundtable: Do You Want Marriage Too Much?We dream of the beautiful wedding and of doing life with an amazing spouse. After all, that’s what God wants for us, right? While desiring marriage is a gift from God, it’s dangerous when it consumes our thoughts and becomes the thing. Our guests explain ways they and others they know have struggled with marriage obsession. They’ll also share thoughts on how to rightly prioritize marriage while being content in singleness.    Culture: How to “Upset” People by Pointing to JesusMany say we’re living in the “age of outrage.” One post or comment on social media, and before you know it, people who were friends are severing ties. How can we share Christ’s love in such a hostile environment? How do we break the ice when many in the world want nothing to do with Christians? Pastor Tim Ross reminds us that as we learn to love God, we can love difficult people through our words and actions, and, with God’s help, see transformation in their lives and ours.       Inbox: God’s Voice or Mine?How do you discern God’s will when your heart is weighed down by unanswered questions? Is there a way to be certain God himself is speaking to you rather than just another voice in your head? Counselor John Thorington offers some insights.

Guys tell all about asking girls out, plus J.D. Greear on making your life count, and should she settle for a social media pursuer?  Featured musical artist: Je’kobRoundtable: How Guys Feel About Asking Girls OutAsking a girl out is one of the hardest things for guys; it’s nerve-wracking and takes a lot of courage. Our guests relive what it was and is like for them to invite a girl on a date, and give guys tips for minimizing weirdness in the process. They also give the ladies advice for responding when a guy makes a move.   Culture: Living With Eternity in MindWe’re told the American Dream will make us happy, and many of us chase it relentlessly. But at the end of your life, will you care about your net worth or what car you drove? Pastor J.D. Greear reminds us that what we do for Jesus Christ will be what truly lasts. In the process, he downplays bucket lists and elusive “callings.” Oh, and as president of the Southern Baptist Convention, he briefly addresses the recent controversy surrounding Beth Moore’s denominational exit.     Inbox: Social Media PursuitThey’re in different states, and he stays in touch by frequently messaging her on Facebook. He seems to really like her, but she’s not interested. Time is ticking and no one else is asking; are chances running out for her to get married? Should she encourage this guy to make a move? Lisa Anderson weighs in.

Helping a friend through a hard time, plus part two with Dallas and Jerry Jenkins on dramatizing the life of Christ, and rebuilding friendships after sexual sin. Featured musical artist: Darlene ZschechRoundtable: How to Help a Friend in NeedHaving a true friend to help you through life’s tough seasons makes such a difference. Whether it’s the death of a loved one, a break-up, a bleak medical diagnosis or some other discouraging situation, God loves to use other Christians to help carry our burdens when we’re low. Our guests share how they’ve both helped others and been helped by others in practical and encouraging ways when life got especially tough.   Culture: Behind the Scenes of “The Chosen” — Part 2Many filmmakers have tried to tell the story of Jesus Christ and His disciples. Some have done a good job; others, not so much. The series making headlines today is called “The Chosen,” with season one surpassing 57 million views as of last fall, and season two just released this week. Lisa went to the show’s set in Texas and visited with series creator Dallas Jenkins to get the stories behind the production as well as a sneak peek of what’s to come. She also talked to Dallas’ dad, Jerry (mega-author of the Left Behind books), about the brand-new novel based on season one. Don’t miss this exclusive interview! (part two of two)      Inbox: Friendship After Sexual SinHealthy friendships with the opposite gender can be great, but are they possible after a history of sexual sin? How do you start the process appropriately? And is there a point where it’s OK to date again? Counselor John Thorington weighs in.

Reasons to end a dating relationship, plus Dallas and Jerry Jenkins on dramatizing the life of Christ, and how to recognize a manipulator. Featured musical artist: Jeremy RosadoRoundtable: Dating Deal-BreakersLet’s be honest: None of us have it all together. Especially when dating, it’s easy for quirks and flaws to create tension between us and our significant other. But what about when an issue or sin is serious or persistent? Could it become a relationship deal-breaker? The fact is, some things are a big red flag that scream caution or even stop. Our guests share how to spot a deal-breaker in a dating relationship, and offer wisdom for how to address a serious situation when it crops up.   Culture: Behind the Scenes of “The Chosen” — Part 1Many filmmakers have tried to tell the story of Jesus Christ and His disciples. Some have done a good job; others, not so much. The series making headlines today is called “The Chosen,” with season one surpassing 57 million views as of last fall, and season two set to release any day now. Lisa went to the show’s set in Texas and visited with series creator Dallas Jenkins to get the stories behind the production as well as a sneak peek of what’s to come. She also talked to Dallas’ dad, Jerry (mega-author of the Left Behind books), about the brand-new novel based on season one. Don’t miss this exclusive interview! (part one of two)      Inbox: Spotting a ManipulatorYou meet someone who seems nice, but as you get to know them, something doesn’t feel right. They always seem to have a hidden agenda and often succeed in making you feel bad or “not enough.” Surprise! You may have found a classic manipulator. So what do you do? Counselor Patrick Hill weighs in.

Keeping friendships strong during the pandemic, plus more lies young adults believe, and what are essential habits to establish before marriage?    Featured musical artist: Daniel BashtaRoundtable: Preserving Friendships During a PandemicAs the world still reels from the effects of COVID-19, isolation is a common challenge nearly everyone is facing. Not being able to gather in public places, see family or visit friends has now become the norm. Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, no one likes to feel completely cut off from everyone else. Is it possible to keep friendships alive during seasons of isolation? Our guests describe what the friendship journey has been like for them over the past year, and they give helpful tips for staying in touch, prioritizing in-person connections, and making good use of technology when necessary. Guests: Peter Gooch, Laura Williams, Bill ArbuckleCulture: Lies Young Adults Believe (Part 2)Many millennials and Gen Z adults are discouraged. The seemingly impressive accomplishments of our peers are only a click away. By fixating on others, it’s easy to feel like our lives aren’t special. Or that we’re not far enough along in our life plans. Paul Angone has a passion for helping young adults discover their true identity in Christ. In part two of our discussion, he’ll address why technology doesn’t necessarily make us better connected, the dangers of being too nostalgic, the difference between knowing information and being informed, and he finishes with positive declarations to debunk the lies of the world.      Inbox: Getting Myself Ready for MarriageGood habits and character qualities are important no matter what season of life you’re in. But what’s especially important to cultivate before tying the knot? What are those essential skills, habits and maturity markers to master in order to best ensure relational harmony with your future spouse? Counselor Jenny Coffey weighs in.

The struggle with impatience, plus lies young adults believe, and how does God speak into our dating experiences?   Featured musical artist: Kerrie RobertsRoundtable: The Sin of ImpatienceIt’s easy to judge someone who sins big. After all, we would never do that, right? But what about those sneaky, subtle sins that we excuse, ignore or explain away? The late Jerry Bridges called them “respectable” sins. But sin is sin. So what do we do? In part three of our roundtable series, our guests tackle the topic of impatience and irritability. Whether it’s losing your temper with a family member, obsessing about getting married, getting mad at your friends’ social media posts, or just not getting your way, impatience and frustration can creep in through many doors. Our guests discuss the subtle ways they’ve struggled with (and tried to excuse) these sins, and how God has shown them a way out. Guests: Steve Kammer, Charles Berry, Diana BlaschkeCulture: Lies Young Adults Believe (Part 1)Many millennials and Gen Z adults are discouraged. The seemingly impressive accomplishments of our peers are only a click away. By fixating on others, it’s easy to get discouraged and feel like our lives aren’t special. Or that we’re not far enough along in our life plans. Paul Angone has a passion for helping young adults discover their true identity in Christ. In part one of our discussion, he’ll debunk the myth of “I’m the only one struggling” and talk through missing chances on opportunities, the dangers of comparison, and what it’s really like to pursue our dreams.      Inbox: Did I Really Hear From God?She dated her boyfriend for over three years before they broke up, then prayed about whether or not they should get back together. After feeling like God told her yes, they dated for another six months, only to break up again. Did she hear God correctly? Or at all? Counselor Yale Kushner weighs in.

The struggle with discontentment, plus making Bible reading a daily habit, and what’s your role in finding a spouse?  Featured musical artist: David DunnRoundtable: The Sin of DiscontentmentIt’s easy to judge someone who sins big. After all, we would never do that, right? But what about those sneaky, subtle sins that we excuse, ignore or explain away? The late Jerry Bridges called them “respectable” sins. But sin is sin. So what do we do? In part two of our roundtable series, our guests tackle the topic of discontentment. It may look like obsessing over getting married, comparing yourself to your friends’ adventures on social media, or hating your job and wishing you had a better one. Our guests discuss the subtle ways they’ve struggled with discontentment, and how being grateful for God’s blessings makes the ultimate difference.Culture: Make Bible Reading a Daily HabitIn college, Stacey Thureen was a competitive swimmer who was poised for athletic greatness. But something was missing. After a friend introduced her to Jesus, she found the peace she was longing for. Yet even after becoming a Christian, reading her Bible consistently was a daily struggle, and her spiritual growth stalled. Maybe you can relate? Stacey shares her story of coming to Christ and how she’s learned to read her Bible consistently amid a busy life.      Inbox: Finding a Mate: God’s Job or Mine?  He’s single and wants to date, but feels like his options are limited right now. The big question running through his head is: Does God lead you to your spouse, or do you have to find one yourself? Lisa Anderson weighs in.

The struggle with self-control, plus more real-life dating advice from Jonathan Pokluda, and a listener’s boyfriend is estranged from his family. Featured musical artist: Nathan TaskerRoundtable: The Sin of Self-IndulgenceIt’s easy to judge someone who sins big. After all, we would never do that, right? But what about those sneaky, subtle sins that we excuse, ignore or explain away? The late Jerry Bridges called them “respectable” sins. But sin is sin. So what do we do? In part one of our roundtable series, our guests tackle the topic of self-indulgence. It may be with food or another addictive behavior; or maybe it’s spending money, or outbursts of anger. Our guests discuss their self-control struggles, how they’ve tried to minimize them, and how in God’s grace they’ve now committed to a daily fight against this stronghold of sin.   Guests: Kat Bittner, Diane Ingolia, Austin LightCulture: Dating in a 2021 World (Part 2)With the tech revolution, social media, smartphones and dating apps — not to mention a nasty pandemic all but squelching our opportunities for true connection — finding a mate is not for the faint of heart. But the question we’re all asking is: “What actually works?” Pastor Jonathan “JP” Pokluda offers excellent advice for how Christians should approach dating in an “anything goes” world. In part two of our conversation, he discusses how to stop playing games in dating, and debunks the myth of “you know when you know.”    Inbox: Family FeudHe seems like a godly young man, and she wants to keep dating him. But he’s estranged from his family, and her mom is especially concerned about it. Is this scenario a deal-breaker for their dating relationship? Counselor Tim Sanford weighs in with wisdom for navigating this situation.

A compassionate conversation on same-sex attraction, plus Jonathan Pokluda’s real-life dating advice, and distinguishing sexual desire from lust. Featured musical artist: Aaron ShustRoundtable: God’s Grace Amid Sexual Identity StrugglesMany of us have struggled with same-sex attraction or gender identity confusion — or know someone who has. In a culture that consistently tries to cancel biblical truth, what’s the current conversation around homosexuality, transsexuality, and an application of God’s grace for it all? Our guests tell their stories of walking this journey personally and with friends and family members, offering hope and clarity on this ever-important issue.   Links to Resources:Speak to a CounselorBook: Is God Anti-Gay? by Sam AllberryBook: Loving My (LGBT) Neighbor by Glenn T. StantonHomosexuality ResourcesCulture: Dating in a 2021 World (Part 1)With the tech revolution, social media, smartphones and dating apps — not to mention a nasty pandemic all but squelching our opportunities for true connection — finding a mate is not for the faint of heart. But the question we’re all asking is: “What actually works?” Pastor Jonathan “JP” Pokluda offers excellent advice for how Christians should approach dating in an “anything goes” world. In part one of our discussion, he’ll address some myths about singleness and finding the “perfect” match. Inbox: Sexual Desire or Lust?Sexual desire is God-given. But Jesus clearly taught that lust is a sin. So what’s the difference? Is there a way to distinguish between normal sexual desires and lust? Counselor Glenn Lutjens weighs in with helpful thoughts on this difficult topic.