In this moving episode of The Timeless Gospel, Faithann and Joy welcome Bishop Justin Holcomb—an author, professor, and advocate—whose gospel-centered work has deeply impacted their family, particularly their beloved Aunt Shirley.
Justin shares how he came to know Shirley and walked alongside her in her healing from past sexual abuse. This conversation follows up on Episode 31, which tells Shirley’s side of the story. Now, we hear from the pastoral and theological side and learn how gospel truth and gentle counseling can meet people in deep places of pain.
Justin reflects on the power of grace, the role of lament and grief in the Christian life, and the redemptive hope we have even amid sorrow. A key quote from his book Rid of My Disgrace, co-authored with his wife Lindsey, resonates throughout the conversation:
“This side of glory, we will not be fully redeemed and satisfied. Sorrow opens the heart to the desire for the hope of redemption to be fully realized.”
The episode also touches on:
-
How the Holcomb family’s book became a tool of healing for Shirley
-
Why grief is not something to be rushed or dismissed
-
The tenderness of Jesus toward those who doubt, like Thomas
-
How grace—not performance—defines the Christian life
🎙️ Special Guest: Bishop Justin Holcomb — Episcopal Bishop of Central Florida, professor at Reformed Theological Seminary, board member of GRACE, co-host of White Horse Inn, and author of over 20 books, including Rid of My Disgrace.
📚 Recommended Episodes & Resources:
-
Episode 31 – It's Me -Shirley’s Story” (listen first if you haven’t yet!)
-
Rid of My Disgrace by Justin & Lindsey Holcomb
-
Learn more about GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in the Christian Enviroment)
This episode is a testimony to the healing power of gospel truth applied gently and faithfully. Whether you’ve walked through the pain of sexual abuse or love someone who has, we pray this conversation offers you hope and a reminder that healing is possible.
Popular Podcasts
Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club
Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com