Elisha's Bears: Exploring Faith, Baptists, and the Bible

Danny Chisholm

Join Baptist Pastor Danny Chisholm as he has engaging conversations about the Bible, Baptists, faith, and issues that impact leadership and life in the church. He also talks about topics and ideas on his mind relating to his preaching and teaching ministry. Danny holds a Ph.D. in Systematic Theology from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (1996). He is a free and faithful Baptist, currently serving as Pastor of First Baptist Church in historic Clinton, TN. He's also a coffee drinker and has been known to play pickleball on occasion.

  1. 4D AGO

    A Journey of Faith, Grief, and Growth with Kris Hicks

    In this heartfelt interview, Pastor Danny talks with Rev. Kris Hicks, who talks about the unexpected death of his father at a young age. Their conversation highlights the importance of faith, community support, and remembrance. Kris shares how his faith in Christ and the legacy of service his father left continue to inspire and guide him through life's challenges. Kris currently serves as Minister of Youth and Young Adults at First Baptist Church in historic Clinton, TN.

    27 min

  2. APR 14

    Moral Injury in the UMC and What Not to Say to Women Clergy with Laura Stephens- Reed

    In this episode, Pastor Danny talks with Rev. Laura Stephens-Reed, professional certified coach to clergy and congregations. Laura talks about her doctoral research on moral injury and soul repair in the United Methodist Church, and the challenges relating to finishing her degree. She also references the unique challenges faced by women clergy, citing examples of demeaning and dismissive remarks often cited to them. Danny and Laura also refer to practical advice for women clergy and ways to support women in ministry. Laura is a graduate of the University of TN (go Vols) and the Candler School of Theology. She will be receiving the Doctor of Ministry degree in June 2026 from Lexington Theological Seminary. For more information about Laura and her ministry, go to laurastephensreed.com. Her writings are also available on Substack.

    30 min
  3. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ

    APR 7

    The Resurrection of Jesus Christ

    Pastor Danny begins a second year of Elisha's Bears with reflections on the significance of Easter. He talks about the resurrection of Jesus and its implications for faith, joy, and personal life. Danny also highlights the role of women as the first witnesses of the resurrection and how this detail points to its validity. He also references how churches tend to be more fearful than joyful, despite the admonition of Jesus to do the latter. Danny shares insights from Scripture, personal stories, and the importance of personal invitation and belief.

    21 min

  4. MAR 31

    A Chaplain’s Perspective on Suffering, Hope, and Holy Week with Ben Neal

    In this episode, Pastor Danny talks with Ben Neal about the spiritual journey of Holy Week, the significance of lament and the importance of presence and authenticity in ministry. Their conversation explores themes of suffering, hope, and the meaning found in pain for faith practitioners and seekers. They also talk the importance of Jesus' arrival into Jerusalem during Passover and the meaning of Psalm 22 in connection to Jesus' crucifixion. Ben is an ordained Baptist minister who serves as a chaplain in the Knoxville area. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Carson-Newman University and a Master's degree from Mercer University's McAfee School of Theology.

    19 min

  5. MAR 24

    Be Strong and Courageous: The Call of Joshua

    In this episode, Pastor Danny unpacks a recent sermon about God's call of Joshua after the death of Moses. Danny talks about the challenges of following an iconic leader like Moses, and how Joshua's faithfulness proved sufficient in facing his first great test as leader of God's people. Our tendency to see the size of the challenge pales in comparison to the size of the victory as we follow God in faith.

    22 min

  6. MAR 17

    Theological Education, the Pastorate, and the Church with Greg DeLoach

    In this insightful interview, Pastor Danny talks with Dr. Greg DeLoach about some of the challenges and changes in theological education. They acknowledge the difficulties of the pastorate, changing church expectations and dynamics, and the future of ministry amidst cultural shifts. Greg discusses practical advice for students, the impact of diversity, and the role of technology in shaping tomorrow's church. Greg has three decades of pastoral experience and is now serving as Dean of the Mercer University McAfee School of Theology (www.theology.mercer.edu). He is also the author of "Catching Up with God: Freeing Ourselves for Divine Engagement."

    38 min

  7. MAR 10

    Inside the Funeral Home Industry with Holly Gamble Meier and Lindsey Copeland

    This podcast features Holly Gamble Meyer and Lindsay Copeland discussing the funeral industry. In this conversation with Pastor Danny, they talk about the differences between family-owned and corporate funeral homes, the funeral planning process, and the emotional and practical aspects of their work. They share insights into the challenges, rewards, and evolving traditions in funeral services, offering a behind-the-scenes look at this vital community service. Holly is the President and Pre-Need Planning Advisor of Holley Gamble Funeral Home; Lindsey is also on staff there as a Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer. You can learn more about them and their business at www. holleygamble.com.

    44 min

  8. MAR 3

    Why Lent, Holy Week, and Peer Support in Ministry is Important with Lee Fox

    In this episode, Pastor Danny talks with Rev. Lee Fox about the spiritual significance of Lent and Holy Week in the life of the church. They also discuss the importance for Baptists to engage the larger body of Christ during this season as well as support the role of women in ministry. Lee gives additional details as it relates to his preparation for Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and Easter Sunday. The conversation touches on the importance of lament as well as the challenges faced by clergy today. Lee also emphasizes the place of encouragement in ministry and the necessity of surrounding yourself with supportive peers. Lee is Senior Pastor of Ball Camp Baptist Church in Knoxville, TN and is on the Board of Directors of Baptist Women in Ministry.

    38 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Join Baptist Pastor Danny Chisholm as he has engaging conversations about the Bible, Baptists, faith, and issues that impact leadership and life in the church. He also talks about topics and ideas on his mind relating to his preaching and teaching ministry. Danny holds a Ph.D. in Systematic Theology from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (1996). He is a free and faithful Baptist, currently serving as Pastor of First Baptist Church in historic Clinton, TN. He's also a coffee drinker and has been known to play pickleball on occasion.

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