Plain Speech Podcast

In this conversation, Michael Clary and C. R. Wiley delve into the complexities of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for society, particularly from a Christian perspective. They explore the definition of AI, its rapid advancements, and the potential threats it poses to human vocation, dominion, and the risk of idolatry. Wiley emphasizes the need for establishing boundaries around AI and discusses the concept of transhumanism, where technology intersects with human existence. The conversation concludes with reflections on how Christians can prepare for the future in a world increasingly influenced by AI. In this conversation, C. R. Wiley and Michael Clary explore the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on spirituality, ethics, and pastoral ministry. They discuss the challenges posed by AI in prayer, the moral imperatives of technological progress, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding human enhancement technologies. The conversation also delves into the acceptable and unacceptable uses of AI in pastoral work, the integration of technology in the household, and the potential for AI to influence consciousness and spirituality, including concerns about demonic influence.Chapters00:00 Understanding AI: A New Era of Technology07:34 Theological Concerns: Vocation, Dominion, and Idolatry14:33 Navigating the AI Landscape: Living with Technology20:23 Transhumanism: The Intersection of AI and Humanity26:42 Preparing for the Future: Anticipating Change in Ministry29:08 The Role of AI in Prayer and Spirituality30:47 Technological Progress and Moral Imperatives32:44 Human Enhancement Technologies and Ethical Dilemmas36:53 AI in Pastoral Ministry: Acceptable vs. Unacceptable Uses45:03 Integrating Technology in the Household50:13 AI, Consciousness, and Potential Demonic Influence

In this conversation, Jeff shares his testimony of transformation from a life of addiction to a life dedicated to Christ. He recounts his early experiences with martial arts, his struggles with substance abuse, and the pivotal moments that led to his conversion. Jeff emphasizes the importance of discipleship and accountability in his journey, ultimately leading to the founding of Apologia Church, which serves those recovering from addiction. The discussion also touches on the challenges of integrating faith with recovery and the role of apologetics in his ministry. In this conversation, Jeff Durbin shares his journey of faith, mentorship, and the challenges of ministry. He reflects on his early encounters with evangelism, the influence of key figures in his life, and the role of the Holy Spirit in his work. Durbin discusses the balance between personal life and ministry, the joys and difficulties of serving in the church, and the importance of community support in his calling.00:00 God's Calling to Plant a Church00:32 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest01:00 King's Domain Conference Announcement03:08 Jeff Durbin's Personal Testimony07:51 Struggles with Addiction and Turning Point17:17 Transformation and Ministry Beginnings23:25 Challenges and Growth of Apologia Church26:31 Cultural Changes and Christian Leadership28:45 Reflections on Grace and Ministry37:54 Facing Challenges in Ministry39:14 Journey to Street Evangelism39:55 Early Influences and Inspirations42:36 Meeting James White and Growing in Apologetics56:53 Reflections on God's Work and Personal Growth01:04:16 Balancing Ministry and Personal Life01:07:54 The Role of Martial Arts in Shaping Ministry01:14:21 Concluding Thoughts and Future Events

In this conversation, Joe Rigney discusses his book 'The Sin of Empathy,' exploring the complexities and dangers of empathy in modern society. He contrasts empathy with sympathy, examines the biblical perspective on these emotions, and critiques the emotional manipulation that can arise from excessive empathy. Rigney argues that compassion has been elevated to a control virtue, often leading to selective empathy that neglects justice. He emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to compassion and emotional engagement, warning against the potential for empathy to lead to cruelty when disconnected from moral truth. In this conversation, Joe Rigney explores the complexities of compassion and empathy, particularly in the context of Christian leadership and pastoral care. He discusses the dangers of untethered empathy, the importance of maintaining boundaries, and the role of flattery in compromising truth. Rigney offers practical advice for pastors on how to navigate difficult situations with compassion while remaining anchored in truth. He concludes with insights on preparing for future challenges in Christian living, drawing lessons from the Book of Judges.Chapters00:00 Introduction: The Devil's Tactics00:21 Guest Introduction: Dr. Joe Rigney00:31 Upcoming Event: King's Domain Conference02:13 Interview Begins: The Sin of Empathy02:48 Understanding Empathy and Sympathy04:12 Book Comparisons: Leadership and Emotional Sabotage vs. The Sin of Empathy07:44 Biblical Context: Empathy vs. Sympathy15:36 Empathy as Emotional Manipulation17:47 Cultural Shifts and Challenges23:55 Empathy in Modern Contexts28:36 The Sin of Empathy: A Controversial Perspective29:47 Lewis's Passion of Pity and Dangerous Compassion32:15 Empathy vs. Enmeshment: The Boundaries Debate33:43 Flattery and Deception in Christian Ministry35:49 The Trap of Seeking Compassionate Reputation41:03 Future-Proof Christianity: Standing Firm in Changing Times42:34 Practical Advice for Pastors: Balancing Compassion and Truth51:24 Navigating Tribalism in Modern Christianity53:37 Conclusion and Upcoming Conference Details

In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, host Michael Clary is joined by Pastor Tom Ascol from Grace Baptist Church in Cape Coral, Florida. They discuss the challenges and transformations of Ascol's nearly four-decade tenure at the church, the fight for doctrinal integrity within the Southern Baptist Convention, and the importance of maintaining a gospel-centered ministry. Pastor Ascol shares personal stories of church splits, leadership struggles, and his insights into the pervasive influence of feminism in the church. He also talks about the role of the Founders Ministry, the inception of the Institute of Public Theology, and upcoming plans for a residential seminary focused on creating resilient Christian leaders. This conversation provides invaluable advice and encouragement for both seasoned and aspiring pastors.00:00 Introduction to Christian Faith01:28 Welcome to the Plain Speech Podcast01:45 Tom Ascol's Journey with Founders Ministry03:43 Challenges and Changes at Grace Baptist Church21:52 The Importance of Godly Leadership27:05 Founders Ministry and Its Impact35:02 Introduction to the Seminary Program36:54 The Inerrancy Controversy39:25 Challenges and Controversies in Theology42:46 The Rise of Reformed Theology53:23 Feminism and Modern Challenges01:01:32 Advice for Young Ministers01:06:49 Conclusion and Upcoming Events

In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, host Michael Clary is joined by David Schrock. They discuss the importance of investing in young men for leadership roles within the local church, practical steps for pastoral training, and the potential pitfalls and strategies for theological education. David Schrock, also a keynote speaker for the upcoming King's Domain Conference on 'Future Proof Christianity,' shares insights on the current challenges and opportunities for young men entering ministry today. The conversation also delves into the history and current controversies surrounding the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) and what reforms might be necessary. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on raising future leaders and ensuring they are well-equipped for the challenges ahead.00:00 Introduction and Small Beginnings00:22 Meet the Hosts: Michael Clary and David Schrock00:45 Raising Future Leaders in the Church01:47 The Impact of the Negative World11:25 The Role of Seminary Training14:48 The Importance of Embodied Learning24:45 Pastoral Training Programs31:16 Strengths and Weaknesses of Seminary Education33:35 The Role of Local Churches in Pastoral Training35:55 Balancing Seminary and Local Church Training37:26 Indianapolis Theological Seminary: A Model for the Future44:14 Challenges and Solutions for Rural Pastoral Training48:46 Addressing Theological Errors in the Church52:54 The Business of Isness: A New Book55:46 Christ Over All and the ERLC01:00:58 Upcoming Conference and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Plain Speech podcast, Alex Kocman discusses the broad definition of persecution in a Christian context. Alex, who serves as the Director of Communications and Engagement at ABWE and an Elder at Faith Bible Fellowship Church, explores how persecution can come in varying degrees and forms, not just overt physical violence but also subtle societal pressures. He shares insights on how Christians are facing severe persecution worldwide, particularly in countries like Nigeria, Armenia, and regions of India. The conversation delves into the theological and practical implications of persecution, addressing the balance between suffering for Christ and not unnecessarily seeking martyrdom. Alex emphasizes the importance of maintaining a witness for Christ amidst cultural pressures and the role that different forms of opposition play in the sanctification of believers. The episode concludes with a reflection on how Christians should utilize their freedoms and resources to further the mission of the church globally. 00:00 Introduction to Alex Kocman 01:24 Defining Persecution 06:09 Global Hotspots of Persecution 14:37 Persecution in America 19:51 The Nature of Persecution and Christian Witness 33:05 The Pedestal of Persecution 34:20 Winsomeness Controversy and Cultural Shifts 36:15 Internal Conflicts Among Christians 37:15 Paul's Response to Opposition 38:41 The Role of Suffering in Christian Life 43:50 Balancing Truth and Compassion 51:59 Martyr Complex and Misguided Zeal 01:01:47 Holistic Christian Mission 01:03:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Plain Speech podcast, Eric Tuffendsam, an experienced musician and producer, discusses the complexities and issues within the Christian music industry. They delve into how market-driven motives compromise the spiritual aspect of worship music and how major secular record labels control a significant portion of the Christian music market. Eric raises concerns about the emotional manipulation in modern worship songs and emphasizes the importance of producing music that genuinely glorifies God. He introduces his own project, the Sower Project, aimed at creating biblically sound music and shares his vision for a resurgence of quality Christian music coming from the Reformed tradition. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:49 The Christian Music Industry's Hidden Truths 02:34 Ownership and Market Influence in Christian Music 05:31 Impact of Market Pressures on Music Content 09:12 Emotional Manipulation in Worship Music 11:31 Musical Formulas and Their Effects 17:17 Challenges in Creating Authentic Worship Music 29:12 Comparing Modern Worship Songs to Psalms 31:25 Exploring Worship Song Lyrics 34:22 The Business of Christian Music 40:21 Challenges for Aspiring Christian Musicians 47:43 Introducing the Sower Project 50:31 The Seed EP: A Gospel Journey 57:39 Encouraging Christian Artistry 59:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Recorded the day after Donald Trump's reelection, Davis shares his insights as a Pennsylvania voter on the election results and evangelical voter turnout. As a former military JAG officer, Davis recounts his transition from cynicism to actively defending religious rights during COVID-19. He shares personal anecdotes, including his legal defense of Navy SEALs against the COVID vaccine mandates and his experience representing Michael Cassidy. We also delve into the legal challenges Christians face concerning compelled speech, participation in pride events, and the importance of building supportive communities to uphold religious freedom. 00:00 Introduction and Election Aftermath 00:35 Evangelical Voter Turnout 01:27 Churches and Pastors' Role in Politics 02:07 Personal Reflections on COVID and Politics 03:03 Military Background and Legal Career 05:13 Defending Religious Freedom During COVID 10:20 Tucker Carlson Interview Experience 13:57 State of Religious Freedom in the Military 21:37 Legal Trends and Challenges for Christians 28:37 State Regulations on Marriage Licenses 29:00 Churches and Legal Vulnerabilities 30:10 Building Community and Support 30:21 Personal Experience During COVID 31:48 Challenges Faced by Churches 34:54 Legal Protections for Religious Beliefs 36:10 Case Studies of Religious Accommodations 44:47 Navigating Legal Challenges 46:17 Support Systems for Legal Battles 50:09 High-Profile Legal Cases 56:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, Michael Clary interviews Michael Cassidy, a Navy reserve pilot, who shares the story of taking down a Satanic statue at the Iowa State Capitol. Cassidy discusses his Christian upbringing, military career, and the viral incident that led to his labeling as a 'domestic extremist.' He reflects on the personal and professional repercussions, the ideological battles within the military, and the broader societal implications. Cassidy emphasizes the importance of standing firm in Christian beliefs despite societal pressures, and the need for Christians to engage actively in public life. 00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts 00:33 Meet Michael Cassidy: The Real-Life Smash Bail Guy 01:06 Michael's Background and Military Career 02:09 The Iowa Incident: Taking Down the Demon Statue 07:10 Legal Consequences and Media Attention 16:01 Impact on Michael's Career and Navy Investigations 20:30 Political and Cultural Reflections 28:52 Church Members as Domestic Extremists 29:55 Potential for Misuse of Extremist Labels 32:24 Historical Parallels and Christian Responsibility 34:06 The Satanic Temple and Its Agenda 39:36 Christian Response and Civil Disobedience 44:36 Rediscovering Christian Political Theory 51:43 Personal Growth and Faith 55:19 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Navigating the Political Landscape: A Christian Perspective on the 2024 Election [AI GENERATED] In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, Pastor Michael Clary from Cincinnati offers his pastoral guidance on the 2024 election. Emphasizing the importance of hopeful Christianity, Clary shares his reasons for supporting Donald Trump over Kamala Harris. Arguing from a Christian worldview, he addresses the moral and political stakes involved, highlighting Trump's potential for disruption and critiquing the current political establishment. The episode concludes with a call for Christians to use their voice wisely in elections while maintaining hope anchored in the eternal promises of Jesus Christ. 00:00 Introduction: The Hope of Christianity 00:51 Pastoral Counsel for Voting 01:19 The Stakes of the Election 02:38 The Role of Government 04:25 Evaluating Donald Trump 10:53 Critique of Kamala Harris 16:08 The Democrat Party's Agenda 19:27 Exposing Democratic Hypocrisy 22:17 The Political Establishment's Corruption 24:55 A Spiritual Perspective on Politics 27:12 Christian Voting Options 30:37 Why Vote for Donald Trump? 34:47 A Call to Prayer and Action

This is a video essay from this article originally published at Sola Ecclesia In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, Michael Clary discusses cultural engagement in modern times from a pastoral perspective. Over the past decade, pastors have faced unprecedented moral and emotional challenges in their ministry environments. This episode discusses the 'three worlds of evangelicalism' as proposed by Aaron Renn, detailing how American society's perception of Christianity has shifted from positive, to neutral, to negative. The script provides a detailed analysis of the challenges pastors face today and suggests two approaches: appeasement or engagement, emphasizing the importance of courage and biblical fidelity in a hostile cultural climate. It also offers practical advice for pastors on how to effectively lead their congregations in these turbulent times. 00:00 Introduction: Navigating Modern Ministry Challenges 00:24 The Three Worlds of Evangelicalism 01:02 The Shift to a Negative World 01:45 Pastoral Realities in the Negative World 02:55 The Influence of Social Media on Christian Thought 03:51 Recognizing Cultural Shifts in Congregations 05:20 The Dilemma of Addressing Controversial Issues 09:01 Strategies for Faithful Pastoral Leadership 15:36 Counting the Cost of Engagement 20:10 Conclusion: Encouragement for Faithful Shepherds

Understanding the Shift from Baptist to Presbyterian Traditions In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, Michael Clary explores the factors behind Baptists transitioning to Presbyterian churches. Drawing from a piece he wrote on his Substack, Clary discusses the theological and cultural influences that guide these shifts, emphasizing the role of family discipleship in this movement.  He theorizes that embattled Baptist families are seeking environments more focused on catechizing children and preserving Christian values amidst growing societal hostility. Clary also critiques the potential pitfalls for Baptist churches that may neglect child-focused discipleship in favor of broader evangelism efforts. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:33 Reading and Discussing the Substack Piece 01:10 Theological Sophistication and Personal Experience 02:24 Cultural and Theological Observations 04:25 Pipeline from Credo Baptist to Peadobaptist churches 07:15 Family Discipleship vs. Evangelism 13:53 Potential Shifts Towards Catholicism 15:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts https://dmichaelclary.substack.com/p/thoughts-on-the-baptist-to-presbyterian

In this episode of Plain Speech Podcast, host Michael Clary and Jason Storms of Operation Save America delve into the current state of anti-abortion activism in America. Jason shares his personal story of coming to faith in Christ and how his rise to lead Operation Save America. Michael and Jason also discuss the impact of the Dobbs decision, the usage of different terms such as “pro life,” “abolitionist,” “immediatist,” and “incrementalist”, and the challenges of passing legislation like the Equal Protection Bill. They also explore the balance between ideological purity and practical action within the broader anti-abortion movement. 00:00 Introduction to the Plain Speech Podcast 00:29 Jason Storms' Journey to Faith and Anti-Abortion Ministry 01:01 The Impact of Abortion on Personal Life 01:29 Operation Save America and Pro-Life Movement 03:00 Cultural and Personal Reflections on Masculinity 07:43 The Role of Men in the Abortion Debate 09:17 Reflections on the Dobbs Decision 15:44 Political Dynamics and the Pro-Life Movement 34:47 The Abolitionist Movement and Pro-Life Strategies 38:16 Unrest in the Abolitionist Movement 39:14 Pro-Life vs. Abolitionist: Defining the Terms 40:02 Social Media Conflicts and Misunderstandings 42:10 The Split Within the Abolitionist Movement 42:25 The Rise of AHA and Its Impact 43:27 Pro-Life and Abolitionist: Can They Coexist? 45:22 The Problem with Incremental Legislation 50:01 Chemical Abortions and Legal Loopholes 52:10 Balancing Ideology and Practicality 55:00 The Trump Debate: Pragmatism vs. Principle 01:01:33 Righteous Increments vs. Compromise 01:07:54 Unity in the Fight Against Abortion 01:12:06 Conclusion and Call to Action https://www.operationsaveamerica.org/

Clerical Transgenderism: Women in Ministry and Feminism's Impact on the Church Originally published at the Center for Baptist Leadership This episode is a reading of my recent piece for the Center for Baptist Leadership, where I explore the recent controversy in women's Olympic boxing and what it reveals about egalitarianism and transgenderism. I also discuss how feminist ideologies have infiltrated the church, particularly in the area of women preaching. Highlighting the differences between masculine and feminine preaching styles, I argue for the importance of strong, masculine leadership in the church and the spiritual dangers of diluting these roles. Discover why biblical preaching is seen as a form of spiritual warfare and why it should be reserved for men. 00:00 Introduction to the Olympic Boxing Controversy 02:12 The Feminist Movement and Its Impact on Womanhood 02:38 Clerical Transgenderism: Women Preaching in the Church 03:04 Egalitarianism and Its Influence on Church Roles 04:18 Feminine-Coded Preaching and Its Consequences 07:31 The Call for Masculine Preaching 08:32 Conclusion: Upholding Biblical Preaching and Roles

In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, host Michael Clary interviews Will Spencer, a Christian convert with a background in new age and occult practices. They discuss Will's experiences with demonic spirits, ayahuasca ceremonies, and his eventual conversion to Christianity. The interview explores the seductive practices of these spirits, the impact of modern society's disenchantment, and the dangers of syncretizing Christianity with other religions. The conversation also touches on a controversial prayer at the Republican National Convention and the rising influence of psychedelic substances among public figures. Michael and Will emphasize the importance of discernment and preparedness for the increasing spiritual deception in today's world. 00:00 Introduction to Demonic Spirits 00:45 Welcome to the Plain Speech Podcast 02:29 Interview with Will Spencer Begins 02:43 Addressing Controversy and Podcast Rebranding 06:20 Will Spencer's Pre-Christian Beliefs 08:37 Encounter with Jesus at Burning Man 11:49 Ayahuasca and Spiritual Experiences 13:10 Reconciling Spiritual Experiences with Christianity 14:34 The Nature of Demonic Deception 24:40 The Mundane vs. The Supernatural 34:58 Rising Spiritual Interest Amid Declining Christianity 35:03 Testimonies of Spiritual Encounters 35:12 A Mother's Desperation and Spiritual Concerns 35:46 Preparing for Future Spiritual Challenges 36:06 Controversial Prayer at the Republican National Convention 36:27 Analyzing Harmeet Dhillon's Prayer 37:25 Theological Implications of Dhillon's Prayer 41:32 Russell Brand's Public Conversion 41:58 Influence of Progressive Spiritual Ideas 46:12 Syncretism in Modern Christianity 49:44 The Challenge of Discernment in Faith 52:11 Theological Assertions and Political Actions 01:02:07 The Rise of Psychedelics and Spiritualism 01:03:54 Final Thoughts and Future Conversations Links for Will Spencer https://renofmen.com/ https://x.com/RenOfMen https://www.youtube.com/@renofmen

In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, Michael Clary interviews Jamie Bambrick, best known for his viral YouTube video 'He Saves Us.' They introduce a new project they are both working on, Clear Truth Media, which aims to be a credible evangelical resource, launching on July 1st. The discussion covers Jamie's ministry journey, his bold stances on cultural and theological issues, and the collaborative effort behind Clear Truth Media. They reflect on past experiences with entities like the Gospel Coalition and Christianity Today, emphasizing the dedication and quality of contributors involved with Clear Truth Media.  Links for Clear Truth Media www.cleartruthmedia.com (launching July 1st) https://www.youtube.com/@ClearTruthMedia https://x.com/cleartruthmedia Follow Jamie Bambrick https://www.youtube.com/@jamie.bambrick https://x.com/j_bambrick https://www.instagram.com/jamie.bambrick/ 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 02:10 Meet Jamie Bambrick 03:11 Jamie's Ministry Journey 05:02 Challenges and Shifts in Ministry 07:52 The Role of Social Media in Ministry 28:26 Polarizing Reactions and Local Pushback 33:18 The 'He Saves Us' Video 36:04 Reflecting on the Controversial “He Gets Us” Commercial 37:28 The Inspiration Behind the Remake 37:59 Creating the New Video 39:38 The Impact and Reception 40:03 Critique of Progressive Christianity 44:31 Introduction to Clear Truth Media 48:57 The Vision and Goals of Clear Truth Media 52:32 Contributors and Support 01:09:44 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this video, I discuss the impending LGBTQ Pride Month and its impact on Christians. At the heart of this movement is a religious devotion to a religious cult. Therefore, Christians need to completely reject this sexual religion.

In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, Michael Clary interviews Auron MacIntyre, author of 'Total State,' political commentator on YouTube and at the Blaze. They discuss the current political climate, the influence of progressive secular humanism in society, and the importance of conservative Christians understanding and engaging with societal changes. The conversation also covers MacIntyre's book, “Total State,” which is a big Red Pill about the way politics works in modern America. They explore the concept of the cathedral, a decentralized network controlling cultural consensus, and the spiritual aspects behind political ideologies. Additionally, the episode touches on localism as a response to federal overreach and the spiritual forces believed to be at play in shaping societal norms and beliefs. 00:00 Introduction to the Plain Speech Podcast 00:10 Interview Preview: Discussing 'Total State' with RN MacIntyre 00:57 Addressing Pride Month and Christian Response 01:48 Introducing 'God's Good Design': A Book on Biblical Sexuality 04:28 The Interview Begins: Getting to Know RN MacIntyre 04:37 RN MacIntyre's Christian Faith and Background 06:29 Discussing Southern Baptist Life and Upcoming Votes 07:56 Exploring Political Commentary and the Journey to The Blaze 16:53 Understanding the Total State: A Deep Dive 27:03 The Role of Opposition in the Total State 30:30 Navigating Political Power and Ideology 31:04 The Evolution of Public Perception: Bush to Trump 31:39 Exploring the Quest for Power: Ideology vs. Control 32:09 Italian Elite Theory and the Political Formula 36:31 The Cathedral: Manufacturing Cultural Consensus 44:10 Localism as a Response to Global Narratives 51:19 Theological Perspectives on Modern Ideologies 58:49 Engaging with Media and Upcoming Projects Buy Total State on Amazon Follow Auron on X: https://x.com/AuronMacintyre Find all the rest of Auron's work here Get Michael's book, God's Good Design (Amazon, Canon+) #AuronMacIntyre #TotalState #Culture #Localism #CathedralTheory #PoliticalRealism #Family #Conservatism #politics

In this episode, Jared Moore, a candidate for president of the Southern Baptist Convention, talks about his call to ministry and his current pastoral role in Crossville, Tennessee. Jared also delves into the challenges and aspirations of the Southern Baptist Convention, exploring themes of ministry methodologies, the impact of cultural trends on church dynamics, and the importance of steadfast adherence to Scriptural truth in the face of cultural rot, such as controversies regarding gender roles in the church, women's ordination, and the sin of affirming homosexuality. Jared is a candidate for President of the Southern Baptist Convention. Jared is nominating Michael Clary for First Vice President of the SBC. Get Jared's book: https://freegracepress.com/products/the-lust-of-the-flesh Follow Jared on X: x.com@jaredhmoore 00:00 Challenging Traditional Views on Marriage and Sexuality 02:58 Introducing Jared Moore: A Candidate for Southern Baptist Convention President 03:23 Jared Moore's Journey and Ministry Insights 12:36 The Impact of Pop Culture on Rural Communities and Churches20:18 Discussing the Role of Women in Church Leadership 36:47 Exploring the Connection Between Ordaining Women and LGBTQ+ Clergy 43:56 The Role of Technology in Society and Religion 44:44 The Impact of Birth Control on Society's View of Sex and Marriage 45:37 Gender Roles and the Influence of Technology in Warfare 46:43 The Role of Women in Church Leadership and the Pastoral Office 47:42 Transgender Phenomenon and Technology's Role 48:34 The Church's Response to Gender and Sexual Identity Issues 52:43 Debating the Legitimacy of 'Side B' Christianity 57:17 The Danger of Affirming Sinful Desires in the Church 01:11:03 The Power of the Gospel to Change Lives 01:18:18 Final Thoughts on Church Leadership and the Importance of Truth 

The Future Path of the Southern Baptist Convention: Leadership, Accountability, and Faithful Stewardship In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, we delve into the pivotal issues facing the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). Topics include the importance of the Law Amendment, financial transparency, combating wokeness within the church, and the crucial presidential election at the upcoming SBC meeting in Indianapolis. Our guest, William Wolfe, Founder of the Center for Baptist Leadership, discusses the potential for revitalization and reform within the SBC, emphasizing a return to scriptural fidelity, the fight against theological liberalism, and the role that informed and courageous leadership must play in navigating the convention's future. 00:00 - William's personal testimony and the state of the SBC 24:27 - The Law Amendment and Financial Transparency 50:11 - Addressing Wokeness and Theological Drift 56:35 - What's at stake in the SBC Presidential Election The Center for Baptist Leadership (CBL): https://centerforbaptistleadership.org/ Listen to the CRUCIAL first episode on Russell Moore's stormy departure from his post at the ERLC and the SBC: https://centerforbaptistleadership.po... Follow CBL on X: twitter.com/baptistleaders Follow CBL on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... Follow William Wolfe on X:  twitter.com/william_e_wolfe

In this interview, I speak with Dr. Ben Merkle, who is the President of New Saint Andrews college in Moscow, ID. We talk all things related to students and parents picking a school in clown world 2024, including the right and wrong ways to think about sending our kids to college, whether or not college should be the default option, the value of trade school, a selection strategy for Christian parents, and blind spots of choosing schools.

Highlights from this episode include avoiding emotional manipulation, canonizing personal preferences, the "narcissism" boogeyman, and weaponized feelings. Matt will be speaking at the upcoming King's Domain conference, "Gendered Virtue: Men and Women Who Take Dominion,” April 18-20, 2024 in Cincinnati, OH. Other speakers include Joe Rigney, Michael Foster, Toby Sumpter, and Shane Morris. More details at www.genderedvirtue.com. Matt is the founding pastor of Christ the Lord Church in Dayton, OH. https://ctldayton.com/ Follow Matt on X: https://x.com/MattMcBee05 Follow Matt's podcast: The Withywindle: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-withywindle/id1685532188

Highlights from this episode include our discussion of awkward Christian sex manuals, woke movies, merchants of misery, why woke people are unhappy, bitterness traps, and the apologetics of joy. Michael will be speaking at the upcoming King's Domain conference, "Gendered Virtue: Men and Women Who Take Dominion,” April 18-20, 2024 in Cincinnati, OH. Other speakers include Joe Rigney, Toby Sumpter, Shane Morris, and others. More details at www.genderedvirtue.com. Follow Michael on X: https://twitter.com/thisisfoster Follow Michael's podcast by searching for "This is Foster" on podcast platforms

In this episode, Shane Morris and I talk have a really interesting conversation about masculinity, femininity, anthropological heresies, and how the on-demand birth control broke everyone's brains. Shane will also be speaking at the upcoming King's Domain conference, "Gendered Virtue: Men and Women Who Take Dominion,” April 18-20, 2024 in Cincinnati, OH. Other speakers include Michael Foster, Toby Sumpter, Joe Rigney, and others. More details at www.genderedvirtue.com Shane is the host of the Colson Center's Upstream Podcast. https://www.colsoncenter.org/upstream/ Follow Shane on X: https://twitter.com/GShaneMorris Follow Shane on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gregory.s.morris.9

In this episode, Dr. Joe Rigney and I have a fascinating conversation about a challenge of modern ministry leadership that is rarely discussed: emotional sabotage. We also talk about people pleasing, social stampedes, competitive victimhood, maternal vampires, and more. Joe will also be speaking at the upcoming King's Domain conference, "Gendered Virtue: Men and Women Who Take Dominion,” April 18-20, 2024 in Cincinnati, OH. Other speakers include Michael Foster, Toby Sumpter, Shane Morris, and others. More details at www.genderedvirtue.com Check out Joe's book, "Leadership and Emotional Sabotage" at https://emotionalsabotage.com/ You can also bulk order 5 or more copies of his book and schedule a Private Q&A with your team & the author. This offer ends March 1st. Joe Rigney is a fellow of theology at New Saint Andrews College in Moscow, Idaho. Follow Joe on X: https://twitter.com/joe_rigney

In this episode, Pastor Toby Sumpter and I talk about joyful fatherhood, raising sons and daughters, God's grace for broken families, and more. Toby will be speaking at the upcoming King's Domain conference, "Gendered Virtue: Men and Women Who Take Dominion,” April 18-20, 2024 in Cincinnati, OH. Other speakers include Michael Foster, Joe Rigney, Shane Morris, and others. More details at genderedvirtue.com Toby is the pastor of King's Cross church in Moscow, Idaho. https://www.kingscrossmoscow.com/ Toby's books are available from Canon Press. https://canonpress.com/search?q=sumpter Toby's podcasts can be found at  https://flfnetwork.com/ and https://crosspolitic.com/. Toby's blog is https://tobyjsumpter.com/ Follow Toby on X: https://twitter.com/TJSumpter

In this episode, Chase Davis and I talk about how the evangelical landscape has changed in the past few years and what we can do to prevent this in the future. We also discuss the perils of pastoral ministry that tempt him to suppress his convictions and turn him into a hireling. Follow Chase on X: https://twitter.com/jchasedavis Also mentioned in this episode: 1. Worldview Youth Academy - https://www.ezrainstitute.com/training-programs/worldview-leadership-academy/ From the website: "Encounter a fresh paradigm for thinking, living and defending the faith with other passionate young people between 14-18 at this exciting program for keen Christian students preparing for vocations and higher education." 2. Upcoming King's Domain Conference, "Gendered Virtue: Men and Women Who Take Dominion." April 18-20, 2024 in Cincinnati, OH. Admission is only $120 per person. Speakers are Michael Foster, Joe Rigney, Toby Sumpter, Shane Morris, Matt McBee, and Michael Clary. More details at genderedvirtue.com.

My story of repentance about my arrogant attitude towards the “country religion” of my grandfathers.

Why don't men sing in church? It's a simple problem with a simple solution. In this video, I give you 7 ways you can help men sing in church. Full show notes available on my YouTube channel:  Youtube.com/@plainspeechpodcast

An audio essay about the usefulness of stereotypes, even sexual stereotypes. We have to use stereotypes all the time to understand and live in the real world. This is adapted from my book, God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality.

This is my conference talk from the 2023 King's Domain Conference: Clear Speech for a Confused Age. In this message, I share about my background in ministry and lessons learned about the need for plain spoken Christian truth in the modern world. This message was later adapted into an article and published at American Reformer.