The Sublime Soiree Podcast from You're Invited Ministries

Linda Maynard & Sue Lindsey
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Religion & Spirituality
  • Updated Weekly

What if your biggest questions about God aren't doubts to silence—but invitations to take your seat at His table? The Sublime Soiree is a conversation space for women exploring who God really is, what it means to belong to Him, and how to live with deeper security and hope. Through interviews with authors, experts, and people holding a variety of life experiences, these conversations invite you, wherever you are, hopeful, weary, or somewhere in between, to sit securely. So join us at the Soiree table where we all can celebrate life with our extravagant God.

Episodes

  1. 3d ago ·  Video

    Who Really Needs Mercy? with Shannon Popkin: Part 5 of The Mercy Over Judgment Series

    Mercy Over Judgment: Conversations with Shannon Popkin Episode 5 – Simon: Who Really Needs Mercy?  We all know the story of the woman who anointed Jesus's feet. But what if the story isn't just about her?   In this episode of The Sublime Soiree Podcast, Sue Lindsey and Linda Maynard continue their conversation with author Shannon Popkin about her book Kinda Judgy—and discover that one of the most uncomfortable people at the dinner table may actually be Simon the Pharisee.    A woman known as a sinner enters Simon's home, weeps at Jesus' feet, and receives something Simon doesn't realize he needs: mercy. Simon looks at the woman and sees her sin. Jesus looks at the woman and sees her repentance. Then, Jesus encourages Simon to really get the picture.   Shannon helps us see that Simon and the woman are both debtors. Their debts may look different, but neither one of them can pay. The woman recognizes her need for mercy. Simon doesn't. And here's where the story gets uncomfortable for us: How often do we recognize someone else's sin while remaining blind to our own? In This Episode: Why the dinner at Simon the Pharisee's house is one of the most uncomfortable dinner parties in Scripture. What Jesus's response to the sinful woman reveals about mercy and repentance. Why Simon and the woman are both debtors who need God's forgiveness. How our judgment of others can reveal a Pharisee heart within us. Why judgment can make us spiritually blind to our own sin. What happens when we assume we know someone's heart by their appearance or reputation. How we can hold firmly to biblical truth while extending genuine mercy. Why repentance changes how we should respond to someone who has sinned. The danger of continuing to label people by their past even after they have repented. What Jesus might lovingly challenge in our churches today. How our homes, churches, and communities can become places where people experience the welcome and mercy of Jesus. Reflection Questions As you finish this episode, consider these questions: Who do I most easily identify with in this story—the woman or Simon? Who have I placed into a category because of their past, choices, appearance, or reputation? Am I more aware of other people's sin than I am of my own? Where might judgment be making me spiritually blind? Do I sometimes believe that someone else is a different "sort" of sinner than I am? Do people experience my church, home, or small group as a place of judgment—or a place where they can encounter the mercy of Jesus? What might Jesus lovingly challenge in my own heart? If this episode encouraged you: Follow The Sublime Soiree Podcast so you don't miss the rest of this eight-part series. Share this episode with a friend who desires to grow in both truth and grace. Leave a rating and review to help more women discover biblical encouragement and authentic conversations. Visit You're Invited Ministries here for information on Shannon Popkin. You also can download some of her free tools here. And visit our full website to learn about our book, speaking events, blog articles, and additional resources to help you grow in your walk with Christ. No matter where you've been or what your story holds... there's a place for you at God's table. You are invited.

    Who Really Needs Mercy? with Shannon Popkin: Part 5 of The Mercy Over Judgment Series

  2. Aug 30 ·  Video

    God's Extravagant Mercy, with Shannon Popkin: Part 4 of The Mercy Over Judgment Series

    Mercy Over Judgment: Conversations with Shannon Popkin Episode 4 – Jonah: God's Extravagant Mercy  We all know the story of Jonah and the big fish. But what if the fish isn't actually the point? In this episode of The Sublime Soiree Podcast, Sue Lindsey and Linda Maynard continue their conversation with author Shannon Popkin about her book Kinda Judgy—and discover that Jonah's greatest struggle wasn't disobedience. It was contempt. Jonah wanted God's judgment for the people of Nineveh. God wanted to show them mercy. And here's where the story gets uncomfortable: How often do we want mercy for ourselves but judgment for someone else? Shannon helps us see that Jonah wasn't simply a reluctant prophet. He was a man whose contempt for the Ninevites revealed something troubling in his own heart. And God didn't just pursue Nineveh—He pursued Jonah, too. That's the surprising beauty of this story. God's mercy isn't only for the people we think need it. It's also for those of us who need Him to change our hearts. You may even find yourself asking: Who is my Ninevite? In This Episode: Why Jonah is much more than a story about a big fish. How contempt can quietly damage our closest relationships. Why we can expect mercy for ourselves while believing others deserve judgment. What Jonah's anger reveals about our tendency to see ourselves as "different" from other people. Why God's pursuit of Jonah is just as significant as His pursuit of Nineveh. How contempt puts distance between us and the people around us. Why difficult people may be an invitation to examine our own hearts. What it means to look in the mirror before pointing a finger. Reflection Questions As you finish this episode, consider these questions: Who is your Ninevite? Who is the person you find yourself thinking: "I would never do what they do." "They don't deserve grace." "If they would just change..." Is it right for me to have this contempt?" If this episode encouraged you: Follow The Sublime Soiree Podcast so you don't miss the rest of this eight-part series. Share this episode with a friend who desires to grow in both truth and grace. Leave a rating and review to help more women discover biblical encouragement and authentic conversations. Visit You're Invited Ministries here for information on Shannon Popkin. You also can download some of her free tools here. And visit our full website to learn about our book, speaking events, blog articles, and additional resources to help you grow in your walk with Christ. No matter where you've been or what your story holds... there's a place for you at God's table. You are invited.

    God's Extravagant Mercy, with Shannon Popkin: Part 4 of The Mercy Over Judgment Series

  3. Aug 25 ·  Video

    A Plea for Mercy, with Shannon Popkin: Part 3 of The Mercy Over Judgment Series

    The Mercy Over Judgment Series: Eight Conversations with Author Shannon Popkin Part 3: Rahab: A Plea for Mercy What does God see when He looks at someone whose past seems to disqualify her? In this episode of The Sublime Soiree Podcast from You're Invited Ministries, Sue Lindsey and Linda Maynard continue their special series with author Shannon Popkin, exploring lessons from her book Kinda Judgy. This week, they turn to the surprising story of Rahab—a woman living in enemy territory who asked the God of Israel for mercy. Rahab doesn't look like the obvious candidate for God's grace. Yet Shannon points out that Rahab's story answers an important question: What does God think about the person who wants His mercy? As you listen, you'll discover how Rahab acted in faith with very little knowledge of God, why the spies were actually on a rescue mission, and how her story points us toward Jesus, who went "behind enemy lines" to rescue His enemies—including us. You'll also be challenged to consider how easily we label people by their past instead of seeing their potential in God's hands. Rahab reminds us that no one is beyond God's reach and that the person we consider "too risky" may be exactly the person God is pursuing. So, pull up a chair, open your Bible, and join us as we discover what happens when we allow God's extravagant mercy to reshape the way we see ourselves—and others. In This Episode Why Rahab's story is intentionally included in the biblical narrative. What Rahab teaches us about how God sees those who ask for mercy. The difference between human judgment and divine judgment. Why Rahab's past didn't prevent God from giving her a future. How Rahab recognized God's goodness and power with very little knowledge of Him. Why the spies were unknowingly sent on a rescue mission. How Jesus went "behind enemy lines" to rescue His enemies. Why we tend to focus on someone's history rather than their potential. How to balance wise discernment with extending God's mercy. Why no one is beyond God's reach. How Rahab became part of the family line leading to Jesus. The danger of allowing pride and labels to keep people on the outside. How we can recognize the "Rahabs" in our own lives. Why encountering the mercy we've received from God changes the way we treat others. How our homes, churches, and relationships can become places of refuge where people encounter God's mercy. Reflection Questions As you finish this episode, consider these questions: Who have I labeled because of their past rather than seeing their potential in God's hands? Have I ever decided that someone is "too risky" for God to use or redeem? Am I more focused on someone's history than on what God may be doing in their life? Where might God be inviting me to take a wise but courageous risk to extend mercy? Do I truly believe that no one is beyond God's reach? How has experiencing God's mercy toward me changed the way I see other people? Am I creating spaces where people with difficult pasts can experience the welcome and mercy of God? If this episode encouraged you: Follow The Sublime Soiree Podcast so you don't miss the rest of this eight-part series. Share this episode with someone who needs to be reminded that their past does not place them beyond God's reach. Leave a rating and review to help more women discover biblical encouragement and authentic conversations. Visit You're Invited Ministries here for information on Shannon Popkin. You also can download some of her free tools here. And visit our full website to learn about our book, speaking events, blog articles, and additional resources to help you grow in your walk with Christ. No matter where you've been or what your story holds... there's a place for you at God's table. You are invited.

    A Plea for Mercy, with Shannon Popkin: Part 3 of The Mercy Over Judgment Series

  4. Aug 17 ·  Video

    Mercy Wins, with Shannon Popkin: Part 2 of the Mercy Over Judgment Series

    The Mercy Over Judgment Series: Eight Conversations with Author Shannon Popkin Part 2: Mercy Wins Can a God who judges also be perfectly merciful? It's one of the hardest questions many people wrestle with—and one of the most important. In this episode of The Sublime Soiree Podcast from You're Invited Ministries, Sue Lindsey and Linda Maynard continue their special series with author Shannon Popkin, exploring lessons from her book Kinda Judgy. This week, they revisit the familiar story of Noah, not simply as a story about a flood, but as a powerful picture of God's justice, His extraordinary mercy, and His invitation to walk closely with Him. Rather than asking, "Why would God judge?" Shannon invites us to ask a different question: How did God show such incredible restraint and mercy for so long? As you listen in, you'll discover why Noah's greatest distinction wasn't his perfection—it was that he walked with God. You'll also see how the ark foreshadows Christ, who bears God's judgment so that we might receive His mercy. If you've ever struggled to reconcile God's justice with His love, or wondered how to move beyond a checklist faith into a genuine relationship with Him, this conversation will encourage, challenge, and deepen your understanding of God's heart. So, pull up a chair, open your Bible, and join us as we discover that God's mercy truly rises above His judgment.   In This Episode Why Noah is the perfect place to begin a conversation about judgment and mercy. Why God's justice is actually good news. How God's patience reveals His compassionate heart. What it truly means that Noah "walked with God." The difference between following a list of rules and cultivating a relationship with God. How Western and Middle Eastern perspectives can shape the way we read Scripture. Why the ark is one of the Bible's clearest pictures of Christ. The beautiful symbolism of the rainbow as a reminder of God's covenant and mercy. How God's mercy—not His judgment—is the driving force of the biblical story.   Reflection Questions As you finish this episode, consider these questions: Am I relying more on rules than on walking daily with God? Do I see God primarily as waiting to judge me, or as a merciful Father who invites me into relationship? Where have I been tempted to compare myself to others instead of recognizing God's grace in my own life? How does Noah's story deepen my appreciation for Christ as my ultimate refuge?   If this episode encouraged you: Follow The Sublime Soiree Podcast so you don't miss the rest of this eight-part series. Share this episode with a friend who desires to grow in both truth and grace. Leave a rating and review to help more women discover biblical encouragement and authentic conversations. Visit You're Invited Ministries here for information on Shannon Popkin. You also can download some of her free tools here. And visit our full website to learn about our book, speaking events, blog articles, and additional resources to help you grow in your walk with Christ. No matter where you've been or what your story holds... there's a place for you at God's table. You are invited.

    Mercy Wins, with Shannon Popkin: Part 2 of the Mercy Over Judgment Series

  5. Aug 10 ·  Video

    Why We Judge, with Shannon Popkin: Part 1 of the Mercy Over Judgment Series

    The Mercy Over Judgment Series: Eight Conversations with Author Shannon Popkin Part 1: Why We Judge Why do we find it so easy to judge others—and so difficult to receive God's mercy for ourselves? In this opening episode of our special Mercy Over Judgment series, Sue Lindsey and Linda Maynard welcome author and Bible teacher Shannon Popkin for an honest conversation about one of the most universal struggles in the Christian life: judgmentalism. Together, they explore why our culture feels more divided than ever, the difference between biblical discernment and a critical spirit, and how pride quietly fuels our tendency to compare ourselves with others. Shannon shares the personal experiences that inspired her to write Kinda Judgy and explains why the answer to our judgmental hearts isn't lowering God's standards—it's encountering His extravagant mercy. You'll also discover why the Bible's greatest invitation isn't simply to know right from wrong, but to walk closely with God and allow Him to reshape the way you see both yourself and others. Whether you've struggled with judging others, judging yourself, or understanding how to hold firmly to biblical truth while loving people well, this conversation offers biblical wisdom, practical encouragement, and a fresh glimpse of God's compassionate heart. Pull up a chair and join us as we begin a journey from judgment to mercy—one story at a time. If this episode encouraged you: Follow The Sublime Soiree Podcast so you don't miss the rest of this eight-part series. Share this episode with a friend who desires to grow in both truth and grace. Leave a rating and review to help more women discover biblical encouragement and authentic conversations. Visit You're Invited Ministries here for information on Shannon Popkin. You also can download some of her free tools here. And visit our full website to learn about our book, speaking events, blog articles, and additional resources to help you grow in your walk with Christ. No matter where you've been or what your story holds... there's a place for you at God's table. You are invited.

    Why We Judge, with Shannon Popkin: Part 1 of the Mercy Over Judgment Series

  6. Season 1 Trailer ·  Video

    Welcome to The Sublime Soiree Podcast!

    Welcome! We're so glad you're here. The Sublime Soiree Podcast from You're Invited Ministries is more than a podcast—it's an invitation. In this trailer, hosts Sue Lindsey and Linda Maynard introduce the heart behind You're Invited Ministries and share the vision for creating a place where women can slow down, ask honest questions, and deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ. Every episode is designed to encourage you through biblical teaching, authentic conversations, inspiring guests, and practical application that helps you live out your faith every day. Whether you're new to Scripture or have walked with Christ for years, you'll find encouragement, hope, and a reminder that there is always room for you at God's table. In This Trailer Learn the heart behind You're Invited Ministries Discover why "The Sublime Soiree" continues as the podcast's gathering place Hear what you can expect from future episodes Be reminded that Jesus lovingly prepares a place for every person who opens His invitations. He's continually inviting you; can you hear Him? What You'll Hear on Future Episodes Bible studies and biblical encouragement Conversations with Christian authors and ministry leaders Practical discipleship for everyday life Stories of God's faithfulness Encouragement for women seeking a deeper walk with Christ Faith, hospitality, grace, and spiritual growth   💖 Join the Conversation If this episode encouraged you: ✔️ Follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. ✔️ Leave a rating and review to help more women discover The Sublime Soiree Podcast. ✔️ Share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement.   💖 Connect with You're Invited Ministries Visit our website for Bible studies, speaking events, resources, blog articles, and more: https://youreinvitedministries.org/   💖 Follow Along Subscribe to The Sublime Soiree Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and join us as we gather around God's table, because: No matter where you've been or what your story holds... you are invited.💖

    Welcome to The Sublime Soiree Podcast!

Trailer

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About

What if your biggest questions about God aren't doubts to silence—but invitations to take your seat at His table? The Sublime Soiree is a conversation space for women exploring who God really is, what it means to belong to Him, and how to live with deeper security and hope. Through interviews with authors, experts, and people holding a variety of life experiences, these conversations invite you, wherever you are, hopeful, weary, or somewhere in between, to sit securely. So join us at the Soiree table where we all can celebrate life with our extravagant God.

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