

Snake on the Table
Jerry Dorris & Tanner Cartwright
Reformation Church pastors, Jerry Dorris and Tanner Cartwright, hash out tough and often taboo topics.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 6, 2026 • 28min
SNAKE 85: How to Motivate Your Husband to Lead Family Worship
This conversation tackles one of the most practical yet spiritually significant aspects of Christian family life: establishing consistent rhythms of worship and Scripture reading in our homes. We're reminded that family worship doesn't need to be complicated or intimidating—it's not about creating elaborate liturgies or delivering seminary-level exposition to our children. Rather, it's about opening God's Word together, reading a psalm or a chapter, perhaps singing a hymn or the doxology, and praying as a family. The beauty lies in its simplicity and consistency, not its perfection. We learn that husbands may struggle with leading family worship due to fear of inadequacy or simply the exhaustion of modern life, but the encouragement here is clear: start small, use helpful resources like family worship guides, and remember that even five to ten minutes of Scripture and prayer can profoundly shape our children's spiritual formation. The discussion also beautifully addresses how wives can encourage their husbands in this area—not through criticism or nagging, but through genuine respect, affirmation of what they're doing right, and humble requests for partnership. When we prioritize gathering our families around God's Word, we're not just checking off a spiritual duty; we're creating a legacy of faith, building memories of warmth and joy around Scripture, and establishing that serving Christ together is the heartbeat of our homes.

Dec 30, 2025 • 16min
SNAKE 84: Should Men Be Willing to Relocate for Women?
In this episode of Snake on the Table, we respond briefly to criticism that surfaced after a public conversation about relocation, marriage, and responsibility.Rather than litigating the controversy itself, we zoom out to address a deeper problem facing many men today: deracination. Disconnection from place, from people, and from meaningful institutional life has left many men untethered, drifting, and isolated. We argue that this reality fundamentally shapes how men should think about marriage, leadership, and responsibility.The conversation presses on the importance of rootedness, the necessity of a healthy local church, and the wisdom required before asking a woman to follow a man into instability, dysfunction, or spiritual barrenness. Not every situation is worth preserving, and not every path forward is faithful.As elders, we’re concerned less with optics and more with substance—helping men recover a sense of place, duty, and groundedness in a world that constantly encourages movement without meaning.Listen in, and let us know your thoughts.

Dec 23, 2025 • 22min
SNAKE 83: How Do You Navigate Family Commitment When Your Faith Will Be Compromised?
In this episode of Snake on the Table, we address a tension many Christians face but few are willing to speak about honestly: How do you navigate family commitments when participation would compromise your faith?We discuss real-world scenarios such as being invited to a Catholic baptism, a same-sex wedding, or other religious or moral ceremonies that place believers in an awkward and spiritually compromising position. Drawing from Scripture, we examine the limits of family loyalty, the nature of Christian witness, and the difference between loving people and endorsing false worship or sin.As elders of Reformation Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky, we offer pastoral clarity and practical wisdom for navigating these situations with conviction, humility, and courage. This episode explores obedience to Christ, the cost of discipleship, and how to remain faithful when cultural expectations and family pressure collide with biblical truth.How should Christians respond in these moments? Where is the line between honoring family and honoring Christ? Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and send us questions or topics for future episodes. Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more conversations like this.

Dec 16, 2025 • 31min
SNAKE 82: Is It Sin to Send Your Kids to Public School?
In this episode, we tackle the question: "Is public schooling a sin for Christian parents?" Join us as we dive into the challenges and responsibilities of Christian parenting, biblical stewardship, and the influence of public education on young minds. We discuss whether sending children to public schools contradicts the biblical command to raise them in the fear and admonition of the Lord and explore nuanced circumstances like financial constraints, divorce, and cultural pressures. As Elders of Reformation Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky, we share personal experiences and practical insights on homeschooling, Christian education, and creating a family culture that prioritizes faith. This conversation is packed with thought-provoking perspectives on spirituality, parenting, and biblical masculinity. What do you think? Is public schooling the right choice for Christian families today? Let us know in the comments, and send us your questions or topics to discuss in future episodes. Don’t forget to listen to our podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more conversations like this.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:09 - Is it Sin to Send Your Kids to Public School06:11 - Competing with the World09:51 - Concrete Not Set11:05 - Nuance in Education15:15 - Financial Reasons Against Homeschooling19:30 - Minimalist Approach to Education20:54 - Making Money at Home22:12 - Starting a Candle Making Business25:50 - Challenges of Homeschooling29:33 - Responsibility of Christian Parents29:55 - School Choice Options30:24 - Closing Thoughts

Dec 9, 2025 • 11min
SNAKE 81: What Can I Do When My Parent Claims to Be a Christian but Is Addicted to Alcohol?
In this episode, we discuss the challenges Christian parents face when dealing with family members struggling with alcohol. How can you set righteous boundaries while maintaining love and connection? We tackle tough questions like whether to allow unsupervised access to children and how to address the spiritual and physical dangers involved. As hosts affiliated with Reformation Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky, we bring a biblical perspective to help families protect their loved ones and navigate these sensitive situations with wisdom and grace.We react to scenarios involving professing Christian parents and tackle practical steps, like involving church leadership and maintaining healthy communication. Parenting in faith, addressing biblical masculinity, and upholding spiritual values are key themes we explore. Have thoughts, questions, or stories to share? Drop them in the comments and join the conversation! Don’t forget to check us out on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more episodes.CHAPTERS:00:00 - How to Handle Alcoholic Parents10:08 - Importance of Setting Boundaries10:29 - Overcoming Guilt in Family Protection10:37 - Benefits of Early Boundary Setting10:48 - Conclusion and Support

Dec 2, 2025 • 20min
SNAKE 80: How Do I Lead My Family After Years of Failure?
Failed as a father? Struggling to lead your family back to faith? In this episode, we tackle the challenges of reclaiming leadership in your home, reconciling with loved ones, and rebuilding trust after years of spiritual neglect. We discuss repentance, patience, and practical tools for fostering biblical masculinity, strong parenting, and renewed spirituality. Whether you're facing resistance from your wife, grown children, or even yourself, you're not alone. As pastors at Reformation Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky, we share wisdom from Scripture and personal experiences to help you move forward with courage and faith. Join us as we explore what it means to lead your family in a Christ-centered way, no matter the mistakes of the past. Have a question or topic you'd like us to discuss? Drop it in the comments below—we're here to help! Don’t forget to subscribe and check out our podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more discussions on Christianity, spiritual growth, and practical theology. Let’s start the journey together!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Dealing with Regret00:55 - Reconciliation with Family after Faith02:47 - You're Not Done Yet: Encouragement07:32 - Apologizing to Your Wife: Steps to Take10:48 - The Importance of Patience11:35 - Repentance: A Path to Healing15:10 - Catching a Vision: Finding Purpose16:35 - Final Thoughts: Moving Forward

Nov 25, 2025 • 16min
SNAKE 79: You're Not Saved If You Eat Pork?
Does eating pork really affect your eternal destiny? In this episode, we tackle a controversial claim: some Christians believe eating pork bars entry to heaven! Join us as we react to this idea, unpack scripture like Mark 7:18-19 and Colossians, and discuss how dietary laws fit into the gospel. We dive into the importance of understanding biblical theology and address the misconceptions surrounding Old Testament ceremonial laws.At Reformation Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky, we’re passionate about equipping men with solid theology, fostering biblical masculinity, and modeling family worship. We also share insights from our sermon sessions and discuss pressing issues within the church community. Whether it's testing teaching gifts or exploring the deeper truths of scripture, we aim to build strong spiritual foundations.What are your thoughts on this topic? Leave a comment or send us your questions and ideas for future discussions. Don’t forget to subscribe and tune in to the podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts for more engaging conversations on Christianity, spirituality, and parenting. Let’s grow in our faith together!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:44 - The Great Hall05:26 - Q1 - Eating Pork and Hell10:55 - Spiritual Defilement Explained13:42 - Adding to the Gospel Dangers14:46 - Resources for Further Study

Nov 18, 2025 • 14min
SNAKE 78: Casting Pearls Before Swine?
Are we misusing the phrase 'Pearls Before Swine'? In this episode, we tackle Matthew 7:6 and explore how Christians can apply biblical wisdom in sharing the gospel. From understanding Jesus’ teachings to navigating challenging conversations with discernment, we unpack what it means to share truth with others while staying faithful to the mission of evangelism. How do we determine when to persist in sharing or when to step away? How do we avoid letting fear or misunderstanding shape our approach? Join us as we reflect on Christ's example, discuss real-life moments from ministry, and share insights from our work at Reformation Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky. This is a thought-provoking conversation for anyone passionate about evangelism, spirituality, and living out their faith boldly. We’d love to hear your thoughts—when do you think this verse applies? Drop your questions or comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe and check out our podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more. Thank you for watching, and God bless!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:58 - Matthew 7:6 Interpretation01:18 - Boundaries in Conversations02:41 - Rationalizing Behavior04:05 - Audience Awareness07:37 - Justifying Fear09:43 - Evangelism in Comments10:55 - Importance of Context11:10 - Supporting Weak Believers13:16 - Engaging with Adversaries

Nov 12, 2025 • 19min
SNAKE 77: What Jobs Do Not Contradict Biblical Gender Roles
In this episode we tackle the challenges of modern feminism and explore how women and men can honor their biblical roles vocationally. We discuss how rejecting cultural pressures to conform and embracing your God-given purpose brings fulfillment, whether through nurturing, leading, or supporting others. What does it truly mean to live out your calling as a man or woman within the church, family, and community? How can single women and men pursue their roles in faith while waiting for marriage or building their future?Join us as we share personal stories, biblical insights, and practical advice to encourage everyone to pursue their God-given design boldly. From the nurturing heart of women to the leadership calling of men, we react to common misconceptions and provide clarity through Scripture. Hosted by Pastors of Reformation Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky, we aim to equip you to thrive in your Christian walk and embrace your identity in Christ.Want to join the conversation? Share your thoughts or send us your questions—we love hearing from you! Don’t forget to check out the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more discussions on Christianity, biblical masculinity, gender roles, spirituality, and parenting. Let’s strengthen the body of Christ together!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Single Women Desiring Marriage02:13 - Career Options for Single Women10:27 - Women and Their Love for Children12:27 - Promoting Hardworking Women17:20 - Expanding the Proverbs 31 Woman Concept

Nov 4, 2025 • 38min
SNAKE 76: Are Images of Christ Jesus a Second Commandment Violation?
In this sometimes heated, thought-provoking episode, we tackle the controversial and deeply theological question of whether depicting Christ through images or media crosses the line into violating the Second Commandment. We discuss how visuals, including movies like The Chosen or nativity scenes, can shape our spiritual understanding and whether they help or hinder our faith. From historical church practices to personal convictions, we explore every angle of this complex debate.We also react to cultural influences that have shaped modern interpretations of Christ, from artistic renderings to children’s Bibles. How do these depictions impact biblical faith? Can they distort the truth of who Jesus is? And where should Christians draw the line? Tune in as we wrestle with these questions and challenge each other on what it means to honor God in how we view Christ.As pastors at Reformation Church in Shelbyville, Kentucky, we’re passionate about diving deep into these important topics to help Christians think critically and biblically. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you believe images of Christ are a 2CV? Let us know in the comments or send us your questions and ideas for future episodes. Don’t forget to follow our podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more discussions on Christianity, biblical masculinity, parenting, and more!#faithviolations #depictingjesus #christianfaith #christianfaith #faithviolationsCHAPTERS:00:00 - What’s on your wall00:48 - Importance of Wall Art05:09 - 2nd Commandment and Images of Christ10:20 - Visualizing Jesus: Right or Wrong?15:06 - Depicting Christ’s Divinity18:19 - Faith: Hearing vs. Seeing20:25 - Issues with Images of Christ28:10 - Understanding Nativity Scenes29:23 - No One Has Seen God29:41 - Exploring the Shroud of Turin31:34 - Is it Formative?34:50 - Birth of Christ35:17 - Images of Christ in Your Home37:00 - Closing Thoughts


