You Tube Theology

On this episode of Honestly, Though, Dr. Carmen Imes joins Rebecca Carrell and guest co-host Dr. Kelley Mathews for a timely conversation about loving our Iranian neighbors in the midst of national conflict. Together, they reframe the tension by reminding us that every nation is filled with image-bearers of God—and that our true struggle is not against people but against the spiritual forces at work behind the scenes. With pastoral wisdom and biblical insight, Carmen invites us to stay attentive to the Spirit’s leading, looking for everyday opportunities to extend the love of Christ across cultural and political divides.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Welcome and Introduction to Video Component of the Show
00:28 - Headphone Halo and the Humor of Podcasting Gear
01:20 - Active Listening in Podcasts and Video
02:30 - Honoring Christ in Creative Content and Scholarship
03:04 - Kelly Matthews’ Ministry Journey and Writing
04:11 - Carmen Imes’ Expertise in Old Testament and Recent Discoveries in Exodus
09:12 - Surprising Archaeological Connections in Exodus
15:00 - Handling Hot Topics: Honoring Christ During Political Turmoil
16:28 - Personal Story of Engaging with an Iranian Stranger During Conflict
19:07 - The Power of Personal Encounters in Global Contexts
22:56 - Reflection on American Perspectives and RealPeople Impacted by World Politics
25:42 - Sharing Stories and the Role of Prayer and Connection
28:14 - Opportunities in Airplane Conversations and Spontaneous Gospel Moments
30:37 - Being Prepared with Scripture for Unplanned Encounters
36:00 - Consistency in Scripture Study and Facing Common Questions
41:48 - The Importance of Community and Human Connection in a Divided WorldResources & Links:
Carmen Imes’ Books: Bearing God's Name, Being God's Image, Becoming God's Family
Kelly Matthews’ Books and Articles
Exodus: An Archaeological Perspective
Logos Bible Software
The Well (Online Theology & Resources)
Connect with our guests:
Kelly Matthews - Twitter, LinkedIn
Carmen Imes - Website, Twitter
Last Words:
Friends, as we close, let’s remember that our sharing, listening, and small acts of kindness can be powerful tools to cultivate God’s kingdom here on earth. Commitment to scripture fuels us to answer every question and navigate every challenge with hope rooted in Christ. Always seek to act with compassion, humility, and grace—because in doing so, we reflect Jesus to a hurting world.