In this deep dive of an episode of Outside the Sanctuary, hosts Steve Entwistle, Marc McCleary, and Bill Merkh sit down for a thoughtful, wide ranging conversation about the many English versions of the Bible and what sets them apart. What begins as a simple question Which translation should someone use unfolds into a rich discussion on accuracy, readability, theology, and personal growth.

Together, the hosts explore which versions stay closest to the original Greek and Hebrew, which ones are best for new Christians, and how to decide between translations that prioritize word for word precision versus those that aim for thought for thought clarity. They talk through the strengths and weaknesses of popular versions, the role of study Bibles, and why the easiest to understand is not always the same as the most faithful.

The conversation also takes a fascinating turn into textual criticism, including a look at the debated ending of the book of Mark and why some Bibles include it with notes while others bracket or omit it. Bill, Steve, and Marc bring a mix of scholarship, curiosity, and practical insight as they unpack how translation choices shape the way people read Scripture.

Whether you are a longtime believer, a brand new Christian, or someone simply curious about how the Bible came to be the Bible, this episode offers clarity, insight, and plenty of good natured back and forth from a trio that loves both Scripture and honest conversation.

In this warm and often hilarious episode of Outside the Sanctuary, hosts Katrina McDonald, Vince McDonald Jr., and Bill Merkh welcome a very special guest: Holly McCleary, wife of fellow host Marc McCleary and a beloved part of the extended OTS family. What starts as a light, good natured conversation quickly unfolds into one of the most warm, candid, and story rich episodes of the season.

Holly opens up about growing up in the church, painting a vivid picture of Sunday mornings, youth group culture, and the kind of faith environment that shaped her early years. Her reflections balance sincerity with the kind of humor only someone who has lived through decades of church life can deliver.

As a mother of four, Holly brings a grounded, relatable perspective on parenting, sharing the joys, the chaos, the unexpected lessons, and the moments that make her laugh long after the fact. Katrina jumps in with her own mom life reactions, Vince adds his signature dry commentary, and Bill keeps the conversation moving with the perfect mix of curiosity and mischief.

But the episode's biggest surprises come when Holly talks about her experiences as a home nurse. From tender moments with patients to the unpredictable, sometimes absurd situations that only happen in people's homes, she brings a treasure trove of stories. Some are touching, some are downright wild, and all of them reveal the compassion, resilience, and humor required to do the work she does.

The result is an episode that feels like sitting around a living room with friends, laughing, learning, and appreciating the people who quietly hold communities together. Holly shines, the hosts are in peak form, and listeners walk away with a deeper appreciation for faith and family.

This week on Outside the Sanctuary, hosts Marc McCleary, Katrina McDonald, and Bill Merkh sit down with a beloved member of the Immanuel Baptist Church family, Theresa Suplee. Theresa brings a lifetime of faithfulness, resilience, and joy to the conversation. A mother of three with children and grandchildren in New Jersey and Ohio, she reflects on how family, distance, and changing seasons have shaped her walk with God. As a dedicated preschool teacher, she shares her deep love for her students, the calling she feels in her work, and the small everyday moments that remind her why she loves what she does. Through the ups and downs of life, Theresa and her husband, Marshall, have leaned on God’s steady presence. She opens up about what trust looks like in difficult times, how faith has carried them through challenging chapters, and why gratitude remains at the center of her story. It’s a warm and encouraging episode that feels like sitting with a friend who speaks with honesty, hope, and a heart anchored in faith.

This week on Outside the Sanctuary, Steve Entwistle and Bill Merkh welcome Vince McDonald Jr. for a conversation that feels less like an interview and more like pulling up a chair to listen to three friends talk honestly about their walk with God.

Accountability isn't theoretical for them. It's lived. It's shared. It's something Steve and Vince Jr. have practiced together for years, showing up for one another in the moments when faith feels strong and in the moments when it doesn't. They talk about what it's like to let someone see the real you, the doubts, the habits you're trying to break, the places where you need grace and truth at the same time.

Bill brings his own reflections on what it means to be accountable to God, not out of fear but out of relationship. The three of them explore how God uses people in our lives to steady us, challenge us, and remind us who we're becoming. There's laughter, there's honesty, and there's the unmistakable sense that this is what Christian community is supposed to feel like.

This episode is an invitation to step a little closer to God and a little closer to each other. It's a reminder that accountability isn't about being watched, it's about being known, supported, and loved enough to grow.

Pastor Vince McDonald, Katrina McDonald, and Bill Merkh welcome back a good friend of the show, Pastor Shane Colwell from Grace Bible Church of Barrington, who returns with his brand‑new book, A Life Worth Following: Godly Leadership Lessons from the Life of Boaz.

Together, the panel dives into the often‑overlooked leadership brilliance of Boaz, exploring how the book of Ruth offers a surprisingly rich blueprint for integrity, compassion, and strength in everyday life. Shane unpacks why Boaz's character still resonates today and how his steady, sacrificial leadership points us toward something even greater.

The conversation ultimately turns to Christ as the “better Boaz,” the true Redeemer who fulfills the story's deepest themes and shows us what perfect leadership looks like.

It's thoughtful, warm, and full of the kind of insight that makes Scripture feel alive and relevant. A great listen for anyone who wants to grow as a leader, deepen their faith, or simply enjoy a rich conversation among friends.

In this episode of Outside the Sanctuary, hosts Marc McCleary, Katrina McDonald, and Bill Merkh open up about what it really means to live a Christian life beyond the church walls. Their conversation is candid and deeply personal as they explore how faith shows up in everyday moments when people are watching, whether it's children learning from what they see at home, coworkers observing how you handle pressure, or clients noticing how you treat them. Katrina shares the joys and challenges of raising young kids while trying to model a life of faith. Marc reflects on navigating the responsibilities of being a doctor, caring for patients, and working alongside colleagues who see his character up close. Bill talks about life as an in‑home salesperson and how his interactions with coworkers and clients become opportunities to live out what he believes. Together, they offer an honest look at the vulnerability, the responsibility, and the beauty of following Christ in the ordinary spaces where life actually happens.

This week on Outside the Sanctuary, hosts Katrina McDonald, Steve Entwistle, and Bill Merkh welcome Dr. Matt Miller for an in‑depth and surprisingly personal conversation about his life, his convictions, and his work with CCCRD.

Dr. Miller shares the story behind his path into counseling and the experiences that shaped his approach to care. The hosts explore how his background, faith, and academic training converge in his work at CCCRD, an organization dedicated to integrating clinical insight with spiritual formation. Together, they unpack the center's mission to support individuals, families, and communities through evidence‑based counseling, research initiatives, and the development of resources that strengthen emotional and spiritual health.

The discussion goes beyond professional biography. Dr. Miller reflects on the challenges facing mental and relational health today, the importance of compassionate presence, and the role CCCRD plays in equipping churches and leaders to respond wisely and well. His perspective is both grounded and hopeful, offering listeners a deeper understanding of what it means to care for people in a complex world.

Whether you're familiar with CCCRD or simply curious about the intersection of counseling, faith, and human flourishing, this episode offers a thoughtful and engaging look into the work of someone committed to helping others grow.

In this episode of Outside the Sanctuary, host Bill Merkh sits down with Scott Warren, owner of Bricks and Mini Figs Cherry Hill in Maple Shade, New Jersey. Scott is a former pastor and currently serves as the preaching elder at Columbus Baptist Church. His journey weaves together ministry, entrepreneurship, and family life, and this conversation explores how those worlds intersect. As the owner of a store beloved by LEGO enthusiasts of all ages, Scott also shares how the creativity, community, and nostalgia of the LEGO world shape the atmosphere he cultivates at Bricks and Mini Figs and how it connects people in surprising ways.

Bill and Scott dive into the heart of teaching and preaching, discussing how Scott's approach has evolved and what continues to shape his style today. They talk through the rhythms of Scott's daily routine, how he balances running a business with serving his church, and the intentional choices that keep him grounded.

The episode also opens a window into Scott's family life, the relationships that support him, and the importance of staying connected in every season. It offers a thoughtful and engaging look at how calling and community come together.

Whether you are a fan of meaningful conversations, a LEGO lover looking for your next favorite spot, or someone curious about the blend of faith and everyday life, this episode is a great place to jump in. Be sure to listen, share, and check out Bricks and Mini Figs Cherry Hill to experience the creativity and community Scott brings to everything he does.