The Harder Way Podcast

Scott and Mattie walk through Numbers 22–Deuteronomy 19, unpacking stories such as Balaam and his speaking donkey, Israel's fall into idolatry, the Shema, and the cities of refuge (a type of Christ!), while highlighting God's sovereignty and providential care. This episode urges listeners to choose faith over fear, embrace holiness the "God way," and learn from the persecuted church to live faithf...

Scott and Mattie guide listeners through Leviticus 19–27 and Numbers 1–21, unpacking holiness codes, laws, and the practical challenges of faith over fear. They highlight key stories, the manna and quail, the twelve spies, Korah's rebellion, Moses striking the rock, and the bronze serpent, and draw connections to Jesus, leadership, and the persecuted church. The episode encourages readers to trust...

Scott and Mattie walk through Exodus 27–Leviticus 18, exploring God’s specific design for worship, the tabernacle, and the call to holiness. They trace Israel’s pattern of rebellion, renewal, and idolatry, and explain how the priestly laws and Day of Atonement point to Jesus. The hosts connect these Old Testament themes to the persecuted church and modern Christian life, urging listeners to choose...

In this episode, Scott and Mattie recap Genesis 40–50 and Exodus 1–26, tracing Joseph’s rise from slavery to second‑in‑command, his forgiveness of his brothers, and the theme of God turning evil intent into a good outcome. They then cover Exodus: Moses’ calling, the ten plagues and Passover, the parting of the Red Sea, the giving of the Ten Commandments, and the tabernacle instructions. Throughout...

Season 2 of the Harder Way Podcast begins with a concise walkthrough of Genesis 1–39 — creation, the fall, Noah’s flood, Babel, and the stories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph — highlighting the recurring choice of faith over fear and the roots of God’s covenant people. Hosts Scott and Mattie invite listeners to join a nine-month Bible reading plan, reflect on persecution and living the God-w...

Join Scott and Mattie for Season Two of the Harder Way Podcast: a nine‑month read‑through of the entire Bible, exploring Scripture through the lens of the persecuted church and choosing faith over fear. Each week, the assigned reading (approximately 15–25 minutes a day) is tied to practical application and current events. Start with Genesis 1 and follow the show notes or sign up through the episod...

Join Scott and Mattie for an exclusive sneak peek of Season 2 of the Harder Way Podcast as they invite listeners on a nine-month journey to read the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation, viewing Scripture through the lens of faith over fear and the persecuted church. Each week, they'll summarize passages, offer simple reading tips, and encourage a 20-minute daily habit to experience spiritual t...

Welcome to The Harder Way Podcast! In this episode, Scott and Mattie explore the profound impact of living as if God is real. They share powerful stories of persecuted Christians around the world, highlighting how their unwavering faith challenges us to reflect on our own commitment to God. Join the conversation as Scott and Mattie reflect on the importance of believing in God's sovereignty and pr...

Welcome to The Harder Way Podcast, where Scott and Mattie discuss the importance of a dynamic spiritual life for enduring persecution and living a godly life. In this episode, they explore how a vibrant connection to spirituality not only holds everything together but also empowers us to redefine suffering and strengthens our faith in God's providence. Scott shares an inspiring testimony of someon...

Welcome to The Harder Way Podcast, where we explore what it means to live a godly life in a world that is becoming increasingly hostile. In this episode, hosts Scott and Mattie examine the "idol of being well-liked" and how it can divert us from our true calling as Christians. They discuss the transformative power of shifting our fear from man to God and how the Bible describes the fear of the Lor...

In this episode of The Harder Way Podcast, hosts Scott and Mattie explore the significance of living a Jesus-centered life and how persecuted believers embody unwavering resilience despite life-threatening challenges. Through compelling stories of faith, sacrifice, and perseverance, this episode offers valuable insights for American Christians navigating an increasingly hostile culture. Learn how...

Enjoy this episode as part of our "Best of" series, while we take the summer to recharge and prepare for an exciting Season 2 of the podcast. Welcome to this week's episode of The Harder Way Podcast, where hosts Scott and Mattie explore the deep connection between one's calling and the strength of faith, especially in the face of persecution. Drawing from Scott's doctoral research and personal enc...

In this episode of The Harder Way Podcast, Scott and Mattie explore the theme of independence, reflecting on its profound significance in both American history and the Christian faith. Drawing from their own family heritage and stories of persecuted believers, they challenge listeners to reconsider their national identity through the lens of their faith in Christ. Scott and Mattie discuss how livi...

Enjoy this episode as part of our "Best of" series, while we take the summer to recharge and prepare for an exciting Season 2 of the podcast. Welcome to The Harder Way Podcast, where Scott and Mattie address the harsh reality of religious restrictions affecting 360 million Christians worldwide. In this episode, they explore three common but misguided responses to such challenges: fighting, fleeing...

This episode addressed the Hamas and Israel tensions, but with tonight's combat between Israel and Iran, this podcast's principles are appropriate.  This episode explores how Christians can navigate these tumultuous times guided by faith and Scripture. This episode calls believers to focus on the foundational Christian tenets of prayer, forgiveness, and understanding in the face of persecution and...

After over 100 episodes, Mattie and I are taking the summer off to regroup and find fresh ways to present the critical truths we share on this podcast. Please enjoy our best of series, consisting of our most popular episodes with a few new ones mixed in. This episode of The Harder Way Podcast delves into the often-overlooked biblical command of hospitality, especially in the context of the persecu...

In this episode of The Harder Way Podcast, hosts Scott and Mattie share the remarkable story of Joan, a fearless Cuban missionary woman whose name is inspired by Joan of Arc. Discover how Joan embarked on a daring mission across Cuba, navigating control points with American missionaries under the constant threat of imprisonment. Through her bold faith and unwavering courage, Joan opened new doors...

In this compelling episode of the Harder Way Podcast, host Scott shares the gripping story of Pastor Li, a dedicated leader in China whose unwavering faith led him into the heart of persecution. Despite being arrested and imprisoned for preaching the gospel, Pastor Li's spirit remained unbroken. His time behind bars became a transformative ministry, bringing hope and light to the darkest corners o...

In this episode of The Harder Way Podcast, we discuss the importance of servant leadership, exemplified by a humble Cuban bishop. As we explore the challenges of living out one's faith in an increasingly hostile world, we reflect on the bishop's inspiring approach to leadership, characterized by humility, community, and a deep commitment to navigating legal and cultural challenges with integrity....

In this episode, Scott and Mattie discuss powerful testimonies of transformation and faith in adversity. Hear the incredible stories of individuals who defied the odds, like a former gang member whose life was turned around through his mother's unwavering prayers, and a Cuban pastor who found salvation while battling the harsh realities of prison life. As they navigate through tales of spiritual r...

Welcome to the Harder Way Podcast with Scott and Mattie. This enlightening episode explores the complex world of Bible translations, exploring why so many versions exist and how each can serve different purposes. Discover the reasons behind the various translations, from copyright issues to target reading levels, and learn how to choose the right Bible for your personal journey. We discuss the bal...

Welcome back to The Harder Way Podcast as we dive into our second official Easter episode. This episode revisits the profound events of Good Friday, offering insights into Jesus's seven last sayings from the Cross. We explore the depth of Christ's compassion, his fulfillment of messianic prophecies, and the significance of his final words. Send Bibles to the persecuted. Send Bibles Receive our mon...

This week, join hosts Scott and Mattie as they explore the challenges and triumphs of Believers living the Harder Way. In this episode, they take listeners on a journey to Cuba, introducing us to a remarkable pastor they call "El Indio." Despite limited resources and living conditions, El Indio and his family have dedicated their lives to spreading the Gospel and nurturing faith in their community...

In this The Harder Way Podcast episode, Scott shares firsthand stories from a recent mission to Cuba with Mattie. On this mission, unprecedented openness allowed for the delivery of hundreds of Bibles to pastors, many of whom had never received a visit from a foreign missionary. He highlights answered prayers, God’s provision at border crossings, and the joy and resilience of the Cuban church in t...

Welcome to The Harder Way Podcast. Join Scott as he shares his recent mission to Cuba, highlighting the incredible journey of delivering Bibles to local churches amidst challenging conditions. Your prayers have been a vital part of this mission's success, serving as a shield and a source of strength. As we continue to support the growth of faith in Cuba, stay tuned for more miracles and stories of...