The Independence Podcast

In this episode, Bryan Dunham explores the biblical perspective on divorce, emphasizing God's original design for marriage as a covenant and the human tendency towards hardness of heart that leads to divorce. He delves into the historical context of Jewish law, Jesus' reinterpretation of scripture, and the heart behind God's intentions for marriage.  keywords divorce, marriage, covenant, Jesus, bi...

Summary In this episode, Bryan Dunham explores the complex topic of divorce through the lens of biblical covenants, Jesus' teachings, and cultural context. He emphasizes God's faithfulness and the significance of marriage as a reflection of divine commitment.  keywords divorce, marriage, covenant, Jesus, biblical interpretation, God's faithfulness, Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5, Christian teachin...

 content  type Solo  primary  goal Educational  summary This episode explores the concept of liturgy beyond traditional religious settings, emphasizing how our daily habits and routines shape our spiritual and mental lives. Bryan Dunham discusses neuroscience, the power of repetition, and practical ways to incorporate meaningful rituals into everyday moments to foster a more grounded and intention...

This episode is the audio version of Chapter 3 of Bryan's book, Questions God Asks, titled "Laughing Out Loud."

Bryan Dunham explores how modern media manipulates emotions through fear and outrage, and how Christians can respond with a theology of God's sovereignty. He emphasizes the importance of faithfulness, biblical trust, and limiting media consumption to maintain spiritual health.

This episode is the audio version of Chapter 2 of the book Questions God Asks.

This is Chapter One of my first book, Questions God Asks.  I am periodically releasing a chapter at a time leading up to the release of the full Audible Audio version.  I hope you enjoy!  

 content  type Solo  primary  goal Educational  summary Bryan Dunham explores the spiritual and physical importance of Sabbath rest, contrasting modern productivity culture with biblical principles of rest as resistance. He shares personal experiences of burnout and health crises, emphasizing rest as a declaration of identity in Christ.  keywords Sabbath rest, productivity, spiritual resistance, b...

 content  type Solo  primary  goal Discussion  summary Exploring the profound question in Jeremiah 2:4 about why God's people strayed from Him, this episode delves into the nature of idolatry, relational distance from God, and the human tendency to pursue hollow substitutes for divine fulfillment. Through biblical insights and personal reflections, Bryan Dunham encourages listeners to examine what...

Sin doesn’t start when you act. It starts much earlier. In this powerful episode of the Independence Podcast (Episode 26), Bryan Dunham walks through Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:27–30 from the Sermon on the Mount and exposes a truth most people miss: sin is not merely behavioral—it is deeply rooted in desire. Jesus says, “You have heard it said… but I say to you,” shifting the focus from external...

Bryan Dunham explores Jesus' teachings on anger, reconciliation, and true freedom in this episode of the Independence Podcast. He emphasizes the deeper roots of murder, the importance of addressing internal anger, and the urgency of reconciliation to live in God's freedom.

Biblical illiteracy is one of the most overlooked crises in the church today—and it’s quietly weakening Christian discipleship, spiritual growth, and the power of everyday faith. In this episode of the Independence Podcast, Brian Dunham confronts a hard truth: many Christians claim to follow Jesus, yet do not consistently engage with the Word of God. We’ve normalized a version of Christianity wher...

Exploring the profound question in scripture: 'Is the Lord's hand too short to save?' through the lens of Israel's wilderness journey, Moses' struggles, and God's unwavering power. This episode encourages believers to trust God's limitless ability amid life's challenges.

 Summary This episode explores the profound teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing the importance of understanding and obeying God's law, the authority of Scripture, and the true meaning of righteousness. It challenges believers to deepen their submission to God's Word and live with integrity and influence in the kingdom of heaven.  keywords Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teachings...

What did Jesus mean when He said, “You are the light of the world”? In this episode of the Independence Podcast , Bryan Dunham continues the Bound for Freedom series through the Sermon on the Mount by exploring Matthew 5:14–16 . Jesus calls His followers the light of the world —but what does that actually mean for everyday life? In this teaching, you’ll discover why Jesus says our faith isn’t mean...

Summary In this episode, Bryan Dunham explores the meaning of being the 'Salt of the Earth' as taught by Jesus in Matthew 5. He emphasizes the importance of daily dependence on God, authentic obedience, and living out the Kingdom of Heaven here and now.

 Summary In this episode, Bryan Dunham explores the theme of dependence on God through the lens of the questions God asks in scripture, particularly focusing on the story of Moses at the burning bush. He discusses the objections Moses raises when called by God, the identity crisis he faces, and the importance of God's presence in overcoming reluctance and fear. The conversation emphasizes that tru...

 summary In this episode of the Independence Podcast, Bryan Dunham explores the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on Matthew 5:11-12. He discusses the concept of Jesus's yoke, the meaning of persecution, and the importance of understanding one's identity in Christ. Drawing parallels with modern psychology and historical examples, Dunham emphasizes that true freedom and joy co...

Summary In this episode, Bryan Dunham explores the final Beatitude from the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on the theme of persecution for righteousness. He discusses the literary device of inclusio, which frames the Beatitudes and emphasizes the significance of the kingdom of heaven. The conversation delves into the meaning of righteousness, the implications of living a life aligned with God's wil...

Summary In this episode, Bryan Dunham explores the challenges faced by Christians in engaging with a chaotic world, particularly in the context of American politics. He emphasizes the importance of peacemaking as taught in the Sermon on the Mount, specifically focusing on the Beatitude 'Blessed are the peacemakers.' The discussion delves into the concept of shalom, highlighting its significance in...

Summary In this episode, Bryan Dunham discusses the nature of God's guidance, particularly in difficult situations, using the Exodus story as a framework. The conversation explores the idea that God may lead us into challenging circumstances to foster dependence on Him, rather than always protecting us from danger. Bryan emphasizes the importance of trusting God's plan and recognizing that trials...

Summary In this episode of the Independence Podcast, Bryan Dunham explores the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on the verse 'Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God.' He delves into the meaning of purity of heart, the importance of perception versus mere sight, and the biblical tradition surrounding these concepts. The discussion emphasizes the need for a singular de...

Summary In this episode of the Independence podcast, host Bryan Dunham delves into the concept of mercy as presented in the Sermon on the Mount, specifically focusing on Matthew 5:7, which states, "Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy." Dunham emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural and historical context of biblical texts, arguing that many interpretations of merc...

In this episode, Bryan discussed the idea of seeking, and that life is truly found in the process and not in achieving the goal.

Summary In this episode, Bryan Dunham explores the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on Matthew 5:6, 'Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.' He delves into the meaning of spiritual hunger and thirst, emphasizing the deep longing for righteousness and the importance of recognizing our lack. The conversation highlights the role of grace...