Countertop Theology: Faith Conversations Between Father and Son

Joshua Ellis
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Christianity
  • Weekly

Countertop Theology is a podcast featuring honest, unscripted conversations about God between a father and son. With over 40 years of pastoral experience and a lifetime of real-world faith, these discussions bridge deep theology and everyday life. Conversations happen around the kitchen counter, in the car, and wherever real life happens. Each episode explores Scripture, spiritual growth, and practical application for men who want to follow Jesus with clarity and conviction. Whether you're new to faith or have walked with God for decades, these conversations are designed to challenge, encourage, and sharpen you.

  1. 5d ago

    Episode 16: Be, Do, Have: Becoming Who God Says You Are

    Are we so focused on what we want to have that we overlook who God is calling us to become? In Episode 16 of Countertop Theology, we unpack "be, do, have"—how our identity in Christ shapes what we do and the fruit that grows in our lives. Picking up our conversation about the gospel and salvation, we explore biblical hope, how it differs from New Age manifestation, and what it means to see ourselves through the mirror of God's Word. Through honest stories about parenting, marriage, work, and personal growth, we talk about: • Letting Scripture shape your identity instead of feelings and circumstances • Moving from hearing the Word to putting it into practice • Developing the skills and character needed for what you're praying for • Staying humble, teachable, and connected to community • Giving—and receiving—grace through the growing pains A good tree produces good fruit, but growth takes time. What would change if your prayer became, "Lord, help me become the person You're calling me to be"? Join the conversation: Where is God challenging you to grow right now? Subscribe to Countertop Theology for more honest conversations about faith, Scripture, and everyday life. #CountertopTheology #IdentityInChrist #ChristianGrowth

  2. Oct 23

    Episode 15: Gospel Pt. 2 Grace, Growth, and the Messy Middle

    If the gospel has the power to change us, why do we still struggle? In Episode 15 of Countertop Theology, Dad and I continue our conversation about the good news of Jesus—and what life looks like after we receive it. Starting in Romans 1:16–17, we explore salvation, surrender, and the lifelong process of becoming more like Christ. Dad shares how coming to faith changed some desires immediately, while other areas of growth have unfolded over decades. We also talk about the tension between expecting people to be perfect and telling them their choices don't matter. How do we love people where they are while encouraging them to keep growing? In this episode: • Why transformation looks different for different people • The difference between receiving salvation and walking it out • Grace, accountability, and loving people without shame • Practical tools for studying Scripture with Blue Letter Bible • Faith, unanswered questions, and living with mystery • Finding hope when you've felt stuck for a long time If you've ever thought, "I love Jesus, so why am I still dealing with this?"—this conversation is for you. What's something God has helped you grow through over time? Let us know in the comments. Subscribe for more honest conversations about faith, Scripture, and everyday life. Scriptures discussed include: Romans 1:16–17 Romans 12:2 Hebrews 11:1, 6 Philippians 2:12–13 #CountertopTheology #ChristianPodcast #Faith #SpiritualGrowth

  3. Oct 16

    Episode 14- The Gospel and Salvation: It Is More Than Going to Heaven

    What if the Gospel is even better news than we've been taught? In Episode 14 of Countertop Theology, Josh and David Ellis get back to the foundation of Christianity: What is the Gospel, and what does it actually mean for our lives? We often hear the words Gospel, salvation, and born again, but have we stopped to consider what they really mean? The Gospel isn't simply a list of rules to follow or a way to avoid hell. It's the announcement of a new King, a free gift we could never earn, and an invitation into a relationship with the God who created us. In this conversation, we explore: What the word "Gospel" meant in the first century Why Jesus' message was almost too good to be true The difference between religion and a genuine relationship with God David's personal story of giving his life to Jesus in 1977 and how everything changed Why salvation is about so much more than going to heaven What it means to genuinely seek God, even when you have doubts How real faith changes not just what we believe, but how we live Whether you've been a Christian your entire life, have questions about your faith, or aren't sure what you believe, we hope this conversation encourages you to take a fresh look at the good news of Jesus. The Gospel isn't something we earn. It's something we receive. And when we truly receive it, it changes everything. Join us for another honest, unscripted conversation about faith, Scripture, and life. If you enjoyed this episode, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. We'd also love to hear your questions and thoughts in the comments! #CountertopTheology #TheGospel #GoodNews #ChristianFaith #JesusChrist #Salvation #FaithConversations

  4. Oct 9

    Episode 13: The Unseen Realm: What Have We Been Missing in the Bible?

    What if there's a whole side of the Bible we've been overlooking? Welcome back to Countertop Theology! We're kicking off Season 2 with a conversation that has completely changed the way we've been reading and understanding certain parts of Scripture. In this episode, Josh Ellis sits down with his dad, Dr. David Ellis, to explore the unseen realm — the supernatural world described throughout the Bible that often gets overlooked, explained away, or misunderstood in our modern Western culture. Inspired by Dr. Michael Heiser's book The Unseen Realm, we explore some fascinating questions: Who are the "sons of God" mentioned in Genesis 6? What is the Divine Council, and why does Scripture describe God interacting with other heavenly beings? What really happened at the Tower of Babel? What does Deuteronomy 32 reveal about the division of the nations? How does understanding the ancient worldview change the way we read Scripture? And what does all of this have to do with Jesus, the Gospel, and our place in God's bigger story? We also catch up on an eventful summer, including David receiving his Doctor of Theology degree! Our goal isn't to claim we have all the answers. It's to ask better questions. We believe Scripture is far richer than we sometimes give it credit for, and that exploring these difficult passages should lead us toward a deeper understanding of God, not further away from Him. At the end of the day, Jesus is King, and that truth doesn't change. Grab a cup of coffee, pull up a seat, and join us for another conversation around the countertop. We'd love to hear from you: Have you read The Unseen Realm? What passages of Scripture have challenged the way you understand the Bible? Let us know in the comments! #CountertopTheology #TheUnseenRealm #MichaelHeiser #BibleStudy #ChristianPodcast #BiblicalTheology #SupernaturalBible #FaithAndQuestions

  5. Mar 27

    Episode 12: Giving Without Manipulation: What the Bible Says About It

    In Episode 12 of Countertop Theology, we continue the conversation around giving, tithing, and the tension many people feel when it comes to money and faith. There's been a lot of confusion—and in some cases, manipulation—around topics like the "prosperity gospel," seed planting, and financial giving in the church. So what does the Bible actually say? And more importantly… what does God care about most? We walk through: The difference between Old Testament and New Testament giving How verses like Malachi have been used (and misused) The book "The Midas Touch"  Why context and multiple scriptures matter How to avoid manipulation while still living generously The role of your heart posture in giving This isn't about guilt, pressure, or formulas—it's about building a genuine relationship with God and learning to trust Him in every area… including money. 👉 If you've ever felt skeptical, confused, or even hurt around this topic, this conversation is for you. 📌 Subscribe for more honest, real conversations about faith, scripture, and everyday life.

    Episode 12: Giving Without Manipulation: What the Bible Says About It

  6. Mar 20

    Episode 11: Eternal Judgment Explained: Why It's Actually Good News

    In this episode of Countertop Theology, Josh and his dad David wrap up the six foundational principles from Hebrews 6 by tackling one of the most misunderstood topics in the Christian faith—eternal judgment. For many, judgment brings fear, confusion, or even resistance. But what if we've been looking at it the wrong way? In this conversation, we explore: Why eternal judgment is actually rooted in the goodness of God The difference between judgment for believers vs. non-believers What Scripture really says about accountability, grace, and choice How culture is reshaping (and often distorting) this doctrine Why knowing the Word matters more than ever in today's world This episode brings clarity, tension, and hope—reminding us that while judgment is real, so is the invitation to life through Jesus. 👉 Whether you're new to faith, deconstructing, or looking to go deeper, this conversation will challenge and encourage you. Key Scriptures Referenced: Hebrews 6, Romans 9–11, John 16, Revelation 20, 2 Corinthians 5, Hebrews 9:27, and more. 💬 If this episode impacted you, share it with someone and join the conversation.

    Episode 11: Eternal Judgment Explained: Why It's Actually Good News

  7. Mar 20

    Episode 10: Why the Resurrection Changes Everything

    This week, we continue our Hebrews 6 series by talking about the resurrection of the dead—what it means, why it matters, and why it's one of the foundational truths of the Christian faith. If Jesus really rose from the dead, then Christianity is not just a philosophy or moral system. It is the announcement that death has been defeated and hope is alive. We also talk about: Old and New Testament examples of resurrection Why the resurrection of Jesus changes everything The believer's hope of a glorified body Freedom from the fear of death Why this doctrine is still essential today This was a rich conversation and one of the most foundational topics we've covered yet. #CountertopTheology #ChristianPodcast #Resurrection #Hebrews6 #JesusIsAlive #FaithConversations #BiblicalTruth #ChristianFaith #Theology

    Episode 10: Why the Resurrection Changes Everything

  8. Mar 6

    Episode 9: Is Tithing Still Required? A Biblical Conversation About Giving

    In this episode of Countertop Theology, Josh and his dad David tackle a topic that affects every believer but often comes with confusion, tension, and strong opinions: tithing and giving. Is the tithe a command Christians are required to follow today, or is it part of the Old Testament law? What does the Bible actually say about generosity, offerings, and trusting God with our finances? Drawing from David's 25+ years serving as a pastor responsible for teaching on giving, the conversation explores how his thinking has evolved over the years. Together they walk through key scriptures—from Cain and Abel to Abraham, Nehemiah, Malachi, and the teachings of Jesus—and discuss the deeper issue behind it all: the condition of the heart. Rather than offering simple formulas, this episode invites listeners to wrestle with Scripture for themselves and develop a personal relationship with God in every area of life—including finances. Topics discussed include: Where the idea of the 10% tithe comes from Old Testament giving vs New Testament generosity Misunderstood passages like Malachi 3 Giving out of faith vs giving out of compulsion How generosity shapes our relationship with God Why asking questions is an important part of faith Ultimately, the goal isn't legalism—it's discovering what it looks like to trust God and walk with Him in every area of life.

    Episode 9: Is Tithing Still Required? A Biblical Conversation About Giving
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About

Countertop Theology is a podcast featuring honest, unscripted conversations about God between a father and son. With over 40 years of pastoral experience and a lifetime of real-world faith, these discussions bridge deep theology and everyday life. Conversations happen around the kitchen counter, in the car, and wherever real life happens. Each episode explores Scripture, spiritual growth, and practical application for men who want to follow Jesus with clarity and conviction. Whether you're new to faith or have walked with God for decades, these conversations are designed to challenge, encourage, and sharpen you.

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