The Bellator Christi Podcast with Pastor Brian Chilton

The famous line states that "all good things must come to an end." The same is true now. After 4 wonderful years at Blog Talk Radio, The Bellator Christi Podcast must say good-bye. However, the closing of one door truly opens another. The Bellator Christi Podcast finds its new home at http://bellatorchristi.com. For our subscribers on BTR, go to http://bellatorchristi.com and select the "subscribe" option. Enter your email and you will receive all the podcasts and articles from BellatorChristi.com in the inbox of your email. If you are listening to the podcast on iTunes, you will need to head to https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bellator-christi-podcast/id1192956139 and subscribe to the podcast there. You can now access the podcast on Stitcher at: http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=127790&refid=stpr. The updated podcast should be availabe on the TuneIn Radio App very soon. It will be simply titled "The Bellator Christi Podcast." (0.00) Intro (1.0) Explanation of the podcast's transition from BTR to http://bellatorchristi.com. (14.00) Reminiscing about the podcast's origins from a fantasy football sports podcast with Shane. (30.30) Information about Pastor Brian's alma mater, Liberty University. (34:22) Discussion of cosmologist Allan Rex Sandage's faith and the integration of science and faith. This podcast is produced by Bellator Christi Ministries, 2017.

Skeptics in science, such as Lawrence Krauss and Richard Dawkins, claim that science and faith are incompatible. To them, faith in science is much like the proverbial oil in water. The two cannot blend. On the other side of the equation, many Christians think the same as they see science as "manmade inventions" incontrovertibly opposed to the Christian religion of faith--often stemming from a faulty definition of "faith." However, to the surprise of skeptics on both sides, faith and science can not only coincide, but they can ironically complement one another. Today, we are joined by Amanda Lanier. Mrs. Lanier is a botantist who serves as the curator for the Reynolda House in Winston-Salem, NC, under the oversight of Wake Forest University, and is also a devout Christian. On today's podcast, Amanda will discuss how science has deepened her understanding of God, and how science and faith are truly partners instead of enemies. 1. Amanda discusses how she came to faith in Christ (2:48). 2. Explanation of her job as a curator for Reynolda House (5:40). 3. What do you say to scientists who say that faith and science cannot blend (8:10)? 4. What do you say to Christians who feel that science is opposed to the Christian faith (11:15)?  5. Has science benefited or deepened your faith in God (15:45)? 6. Do you see signs of God's design at the cellular level and within plant life (19:39)? 7. What are some of the most major environmental issues facing us today (21:40)? 8. What is the Christian's role in preserving the environment (29:37)? 9. Brian Chilton's closing thoughts about the Christian's role as a caretaker of the environment (33:30).

Much of the Bible is narrative which presents a historical record of events. Archaeology scientifically observes data that can clarify, affirm, or illuminate events of the past. But does the archaeological record coincide with the biblical record? In this episode of The Bellator Christi Podcast, we are joined by archaeologist Ted Wright. Mr. Wright graduated from the Cobb Institute of Archaeology at Mississippi State University and received a Master of Arts in Apologetics from Southern Evangelical Seminary. Mr. Wright has been featured on the CNN's program Jesus: Faith, Fact, or Forgery and the History Channel's program Mankind: the Story of All of Us. This episode will present evidence supporting the biblical claim for the Exodus and for many of the details of the Christmas story. 1. If you would, share with everyone how you came to Christ. (2:25) 2. The Exodus has often been challenged by critical scholars. What has led to such skepticism? (4:30)  3. What is the best date for the Exodus? (12:33) 4. Who most likely fits as the Pharaoh at the time of the Exodus? (25:30) 5. As an archaeologist, have you found evidence in favor of the biblical account of the Exodus? (27:00) 6. Why don't we hear more about this evidence in popular and Christian circles? (37:00) 7. Three things that archaeology can do for the biblical text. (39:35) 8. There are several theories out, but do you think that the Exodus occurred at the Red Sea or the Sea of Reeds? (40:55) 9. Where do you suppose Mt. Sinai is located? (45:22) 10. Is there any archaeological support for the Christmas story? (49:49)

Like many in other professional fields, theologians love acronyms. Since the Synod of Dort, Calvinists have adopted a particular acronym relating to their core beliefs. TULIP is the name indicating total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistable grace, and perseverance of the saints. However, many theologians have observed that the core doctrines contained in TULIP do not mesh well with truths found in God's Word. Some have even indicated that TULIP may not be completely true to Calvin himself. (Note: the TULIP acronym was not adopted by Calvin, but by his followers.) Many, including Kenneth Keathley, professor of systematic theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, prefer the acronym ROSES. ROSES stands for radical depravity, overcoming grace, sovereign election, eternal life, and singular redemption. In many ways, ROSES is a superior system to TULIP. We'll explain why in today's podcast. Be sure to call in to join the conversation by calling (323) 784-9617 to speak with Pastor Brian Chilton.

Christian leaders and theologians often engage in healthy debates concerning issues of the faith. Recently, Andy Stanley (Senior Pastor of North Point Community Church, Atlanta, GA) and Dr. Al Mohler (President of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Lexington, KY) debated the Primacy of Christian authority. Is it found in Christ alone or in the Scriptures? We'll discuss the topic today on The Bellator Christi Podcast

In this week's podcast, we speak with Dr. Gary Yates, Professor of Old Testament Studies at Liberty University. Dr. Yates co-authored the book The Message of the Twelve: Hearing the Voice of the Minor Prophets with Al Fuhr. On today's podcast, we will learn about who these minor prophets were and what we as modern Christians can learn from the message of these fascinating preachers. To call in, dial (323) 784-9617.  Note: the show is scheduled to air at the podcast's new air time of 5pm.

Christianity has been met with many challengers in recent times. Of the many groups that criticize Christian beliefs and values, none is more radical than the Jesus Mythicism movement. This radical new atheist movement seeks to dismiss Christianity by disregarding the historicity of Jesus of Nazareth. While Jesus Mythicism holds little to no scholarly support, Jesus Mythicists enjoy a wide base of approval from communities on the internet as they claim that Jesus was not a historical figure, but a mythical figure invented by the church. Ken Humphreys is among the most popular of the Jesus Mythicist spokesmen. Our guest today has debated many from the Jesus Mythicist campaign, including Humphreys. Nick Peters joins us to discuss the flaws of Jesus Mythicism and how the modern Christian can engage those who hold to Jesus Mythicism. Peters studied at Southern Evangelical Seminary and Johnson Bible College. He has worked as the Social Media and Communications Expert at Ratio Christi. Peters is an author and regular blogger at deeperwaters.wordpress.com and hosts a podcast also named Deeper Waters. Join us as we discuss the issue of Jesus Mythicism with Nick Peters. To call in, dial (323) 784-9617.

The issue of election is perhaps the most controversial topic of discussion in all of theological discourse. One of the key questions in the election debate pertains to the level of freedom that people hold. Do people have the freedom to respond to the grace of God or is everything predetermined? Our guest today approaches the issue from a different and important perspective. Dr. Chad Thornhill examines the issue of election from the understanding of Second Temple Judaism in his book The Chosen People: Paul, Election, and Second Temple Judaism. Second Temple Judaism influenced the understanding of the New Testament writers, thus such a perspective is critical to our understanding of the issue. Today, Dr. Thornhill discusses some of his findings in his book. He will also talk about the importance of possessing a working knowledge of New Testament Greek in preparation for his latest book's release Greek for Everyone: Introductory Greek for Bible Study and Application. Dr. Chad Thornhill received his Ph.D. in Theology and Apologetics from Liberty University School of Divinity in 2012, his M.Div. and M.A. in Religion also from Liberty University School of Divinity. Dr. Thornhill is the Chair of Theological Studies and also serves as Assistant Professor of Apologetics and Biblical Studies at Liberty University. In addition to his studies, he is an athlete in the American Ninja Warrior games. Join in on the conversation at (323) 784-9617.

Religious freedom is a fundamental right built into the fabric of the United States of America. But now, those freedoms are under attack. Even some of the more skeptically-inclined now admit that religious freedoms are under assault. A good example of such an assault comes from California legislators who recently posed a state bill, titled SB1146, that greatly restricts the religious activities and expectations that religious schools in the state of California can hold for its students and staff. Such a bill could greatly impact Christian schools and universities like Biola University in La Mirada, California, and has the potential to affect other Christian schools nationwide. On today's podcast, we are joined by Dr. Scott Waller, Chair of the Political Science Department and Associate Professor of Political Science at Biola University. Dr. Waller holds graduate degrees in both philosophy and political science. Dr. Waller earned his M.A. in Philosophy of Religion and Ethics from Talbot School of Theology, his M.A. in Politics and his Ph.D. in Political Science from Claremont Graduate University, specializing in the fields of American Politics and Political Theory. His research interests involve the intersection of religion and politics, jurisprudence surrounding the First Amendment religion clauses, and the evolving role of the judiciary within the American political order.  He is a frequent guest on local radio discussing American politics and a frequent speaker to the general Christian community on issues of importance for believers to consider. He has been on Greg Koukl's Stand to Reason broadcast and has published two books. He has been married to his wife, Cathy, for over twenty-five years and they have two children ages 18 and 15. Join us today for an important discussion.

The Old Testament is often avoided by Christians due to its complexity. Among the complex books in the Old Testament, more controversy has come from the Book of Genesis than perhaps any other. However, both the Book of Genesis and the Old Testament both hold great value for the believer in Christ. Today we are joined by Dr. Chet Roden. Dr. Roden completed his Ph.D. at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Old Testament studies in Wake Forest, North Carolina; his M.Div. also at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary; and his B.A. from Baptist College of Florida. Dr. Roden currently serves as the Chair of Biblical Studies at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia where he also serves as the professor of Old Testament and Beginning Hebrew. Dr. Roden also spends much of his summers on archaeological digs in Israel; serves as pastor; is a die-hard Alabama football fan; and plays a mean banjo with his bluegrass group. Join us today as we welcome the multi-talented Dr. Chet Roden as as we discuss Dr. Roden's new book 30 Days to Genesis and the importance of Old Testament studies.

Report after report notes the great divisions that exist between races and ethnicities in our time. However, such does not need to be the case. In the midst of all this racial division stands a church in Indianland, South Carolina that has overcome such stigmas. Transformation Church, led by senior pastor Dr. Derwin Gray, has been listed by Forbes magazine as one of the fastest growing churches in America. In addition, Transformation Church is a multi-ethnic, multi-generational church. On today's podcast, we are joined by Dr. Derwin Gray. Dr. Gray received his M.Div. from Southern Evanglical Seminary. SES is where he also received an honorary doctorate. Dr. Gray is also working towards a Doctor of Ministry degree from Northern Seminary in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Gray also played defense for the Indianapolis Colts and the Carolina Panthers. Dr. Gray played college football for BYU. Join us today as we speak with Dr. Derwin Gray about the role that the church plays in healing the racial divide.

Racism is afflicting our nation. Riots are breaking out. Anger is increasing. Resentment is taking hold. Yet, we are reminded in the Scriptures that "There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28, NLT). How do we find reconciliation? On today's podcast, we speak with Melissa Pellew. Mrs. Pellew is the cohost to the popular podcast titled "Theology Matters with the Pellews." She is also a pro-life advocate and an apologist with Ratio Christi. This podcast will air at a special time: Monday at 10am. Join us for the conversation today on the Bellator Christi Podcast. 

Today we talk with pastor, apologist, and chaplain Jason Kline. Jason received his Master of Divinity degree in Theology from Liberty University, his Bachelor of Science in Religion and Business also from Liberty University, chaplaincy training from Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, formerly served in the United States Air Force, and has now begun to earn his Certificate in Christian Apologetics from Biola University. Jason addresses the issue of relational apologetics and provides an excellent means to engage individuals who are questioning their faith or searching for answers. Join us today in a fascinating conversation with Jason Kline.

This past weekend was incredible for many reasons. I was accompanied by my family as I took part in the 43rd Commencement Ceremonies at Liberty University. We will discuss these lessons on today's podcast. Join in on the conversation by calling (323) 784-9617.

Last week we discussed the failures of other hypotheses to account for the empty tomb as well as historical reasons to believe in the empty tomb. This week we discuss the biblical and theological reasons for accepting that the tomb of Jesus was literally empty the first Easter Sunday. What did the early church hold? What ramifications are held by the empty tomb? We will discuss these issues today!

Catch the first part of our investigation of the empty tomb. While many of the events of Jesus' last week on earth are accepted by the majority of scholars (even that the disciples saw the risen Jesus), some scholars do not accept that Jesus' tomb was empty (quite bizarre, if I say so myself). Are there reasons to accept the empty tomb hypothesis? I believe so. In this first of three shows, we will examine the evidence to demonstrate that the Jesus' tomb was found empty on the first Easter Sunday.

At his website, Bellator Christi found at http://pastorbrianchilton.wordpress.com, Pastor Brian has spent the past 8 weeks examining the historical Jesus of Nazareth by the historical method. What has he found? Did Jesus of Nazareth historically pass the test? Find out on this podcast. Call in at (323) 784-9617.

When we talk about a person's knowledge, we must readily admit the limitations of the person. Even doctoral graduates are only certified in one specific area. However, when we speak of God, there is no limitation of his knowledge

Often, people are attacked by Satan and the powers of evil and they do not know how to spiritually defend themselves. In this message, Pastor Brian Chilton discusses the armor of God, its use, and its importance. Join us for this message given at Huntsville Baptist Church on January 31st, 2016.

Today we will discuss a recent Barna poll which presented the 100 most Bible-minded cities in the United States. In addition, we will discuss some of the media misunderstandings surrounding Jerry Falwell, Jr.'s endorsement of Donald Trump. Finally, it seems that many evangelicals are split when it comes to what candidate they support. Often, advocates of one particular candidate will question the Christian beliefs of another. However, Daniel Burke of CNN provides some insight to this phenomena in his article "7 Types of Evangelicals and How They will Affect the Presidential Race." The person's support of a particular candidate opens the box for one to view the perspective of the person. Be sure to call in during our live show at (323) 784-9617.

Recently at "Bellator Christi," we discussed the denial of the resurrection by one Christian pastor named Jim Rigby. It seems that many even in ministry are beginning to allow skeptical ideologies to influence their theological spectrum. However, this is problematic. In this episode, Pastor Brian explains why. Join us on this episode. We will take your calls towards the end of the show at (323) 784-9617.

How is an event of the past deemed historical? In this podcast, we will examine some of the features of historical methodologyand will see how we can know key features of the life of Christ.

The New York Daily Times ran a cover saying "God is Not Fixing This." While the cover article was more of a political rant than a religious position, it behooves us to examine the correlation between prayer and service. We will discuss this issue on today's podcast. Plus, the comments of Jerry Falwell, Jr. will be discussed.

Can God use you? Listen to this message and find out.

Due to techical difficulties, the podcast that was scheduled for November 30th had to be moved to December 1st. Nevertheless, this episode will deal with the origins of the Christmas tree tradition. Is it pagan? Is it Christian? Furthermore, is the Christmas tree compatible with the Christian faith?

We have a loaded show for you today. First, Pastor Brian discusses his website's new name Bellator Christi which can still be found at http://pastorbrianchilton.wordpress.com. Second, the podcast will cover how one can still experience blessings in the midst of chaotic times. Finally, Pastor Brian confronts the flawed presuppositionalism of David Hume as he discusses the reality of miracles.

Christopher Burcham is the pastor of Union Hill Baptist Church in Clemmons, NC. In addition to being a pastor and former teacher of history, Pastor Burcham has had the distinct opportunity to have met the past eight Presidents of the United States. Pastor Burcham reminds the listener that behind the politics and the role, there is a human being filling the role of the President of the United States. In addition, Pastor Burcham reminds us that the Christian must find a delicate balance in his or her involvement in politics, remembering that the Christian holds a dual citizenship--one being that of the Kingdom of God.

On this episode of Redeeming Truth, hear the incredible testimony of Amanda Burcham. Mrs. Burcham grew up in a Mormon home before tragic events led her to agnosticism and later to the occult. In amazing fashion, God transformed her life through the radical salvation found in Jesus Christ. Mrs. Burcham would later serve as a Christian missionary to Hawaii, China, and Tibet sharing the transforming message of Christ Jesus. Hear how God can make a radical difference in a person's life in this incredible testimony.

Join us for a special Homecoming service, celebrated on Sunday, October 5th 2014 at Huntsville Baptist Church. Pastor Warren Kerr joins the service as he delivers a special message on "The Value of a Day" from Psalm 118:1-9 and 24. 

Most Protestants have found themselves entrenched in debates surrounding the theological systems of John Calvin and Jacob Arminius. But did you know that there are more systems than just these? In fact, Thomas Aquinas and Luis de Molina offer systems that may hold better promise in reconciling divine sovereignty and human freedom than Calvin and Arminius' systems do. In this episode, we will examine the beliefs of Thomas Aquinas and Luis de Molina concerning sovereignty and human freedom. Finally, it will be shown why Pastor Brian has gravitated to a Thomist/Molinist concept known as "congruism."

Evangelism can be difficult when one is on friendly grounds. But what if one has entered hostile grounds...such as atheist and agnostic conferences or pagan festivals? Seem impossible? Think again. Devin and his wife Melissa Pellew do just that. In this episode, Pastor Brian interviews Mr. Pellew, a Southern Evangelical Seminary graduate, and host of "Theology Matters with the Pellews" about his evangelism and will ask for tips to give the ordinary Christian help with their evangelistic efforts. Call in at (323) 784-9617.

You have probably heard about the controversy surrounding the "Four Blood Moons." Some popular teachers proclaim that these four blood moons represent the imminent coming of Christ. On a similar note, others online commentators are delivering some shocking messages pertaining to the return of Christ. In this episode, Pastor Brian will evaluate the "Four Blood Moon" teaching, will answer whether there is any validity to such popular prophetic codes, and will confront the issue of date-setting when it comes to the return of Christ (or "Extreme Eschatology"). Call in at (323) 784-9617.

In this episode, Pastor Brian plays a disturbing clip from Emily Letts abortion video and will provide commentary on the apparent promotion of infanticide. Letts has received many supporters to her video, many of whom claim to love abortion. Couple this with Bill Maher's pro-death comments and one can easily see that some in the pro-choice movement are moving towards a "pro-death movement."  Call in with your questions and comments at (323) 784-9617.

Secular universities are closing their classical philosophy programs. But why? In a day and age where there is more confusion than ever, shouldn't universities be compelled to teach students how to think? Furthermore, it may be said that Christian universities like Liberty University, Biola University, and other likeminded schools will be the torch-bearers not only of Christ...but of logic and philosophy, as well. In this episode, we will interview philosopher J. Andrew Payne and get his take on the apparent takeover of proper thinking. 

Pastor Brian Commentary: A recent campaign was launched against people criticizing women for being "bossy." The campaign seemingly desires to ban the word "bossy." Is this a good thing? Or could it be that the campaign against "bossiness" is guilty of bossiness itself? Pastor Brian speaks with Chad Cleary on the issues surrounding Hobby Lobby and additional current issue topics and their impact on Christianity.

Today, we celebrated the life of an American hero, a faithful husband, and a trusting man of God in Junior Matthews. On this broadcast, Pastor Brian reminisces about Junior and replays the interview conducted with Junior which was previously aired.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed with the pessimism of the world? Every day it seems that a person is bombarded with more and more bad news. However, one's perspective can change when they understand the identity of Christ. In this message, Pastor Brian examines the identity of Jesus Christ in an ancient hymn found in Paul's letter to the church of Colossae. After hearing this message, you will have a better understanding of who Jesus Christ is, and will leave with the optimism that only a relationship with Christ can bring.

Special guest and philosopher Andrew Payne will join us for this special look at C.S. Lewis' "Problem of Pain" book. Mr. Payne will give us a look into the core themes of Lewis' book and will show how he has a problem with Lewis' writing. Be sure to check out Andrew Payne's first lecture at the 20th Annual National Conference on Christian Apologetics sponsored by Southern Evangelical Seminary October 11th, 2013 held at the First Baptist Church in Indian Trail, NC. Go to www.ses.edu for more details.

In this episode, we present the first of a two part interview giving the incredible testimony of Siv Ashley.  Mrs. Ashley is a survivor of the concentration camps in Cambodia.  Her father learned of Jesus and told her about Jesus' saving grace.  Hear her gripping testimony about how Jesus redeemed her and allowed her to come to America where she is now happily married and living for Christ in complete freedom.  In this episode, you will hear about Siv's incredible mission trip back to Cambodia and of her amazing experience of forgiveness.  Check out our site at http://pastorbrianchilton.wordpress.com.

In this episode, Pastor Brian interviews Siv Ashley, a survivor of the concentration camps in Cambodia.  Siv accepted Jesus Christ (called Joo-Soo in Cambodian) at a young age.  Siv speaks about her incredible journey of grace from the horrors of Pol Pot's concentration camps to the glories of graduating college and starting a family.  Siv also speaks of her book "Siv: Memoirs" which will be out soon.  Also check out our main site at http://pastorbrianchilton.wordpress.com.

In this episode, Pastor Brian interviews Darryl Speer, a Christian basketball coach at a local elementary school.  We will ask about how he incorporates Christian principles in coaching.

We live in a syncretist culture where society promotes tolerance as the new great commandment.  But, how important should doctrine be?  Should we simply "coexist" as bumper stickers suggest?  Or, is there a deeper problem with the understanding of truth?  We bring back Southern Evangelical Seminary graduate student Drew Payne as we discuss the importance of doctrine.  

In this special episode, Pastor Brian will interview Cindy Smith. Both have had encounters with what they believe to have been angels.  Join us for these incredible, real-life testimonies.  Call in at (323) 784-9617 or log on to our free chatboard.

We will be interviewing Junior Matthews who is 93 years young.  Junior served as a deacon at Friendship Baptist Church for 56 years.  In a recorded interview, Junior will tell us about the technological, governmental, and spiritual changes of the past century.  This is a show you will not want to miss.  Chat live or call in with your questions at (323) 784-9617.

In this episode, Pastor Brian looks at the disturbing new trend of atheists preaching from Christian pulpits.  Plus, we will have our chatmaster, Shane-O, with us as he gives us information on something he has researched called the Clergy Response Team.  This and much more on this episode of Redeeming Truth.  Call us with your questions and/or comments at (323) 784-9617.

On October 31st, the world celebrates Halloween.  Many Christians today question whether they should participate in the holiday due to its' pagan origins.  Steve Furno is one of those Christians who opposes the holiday.  Mr. Furno, a godly man, a faithful husband, and a loving father of four will discuss why he opposes the holiday and why he does not allow his children to participate in Halloween events.  We will explore the origins of the day and search for the truth.  Call us with your questions or comments at (323) 784-9617.  Remember the "truth shall set you free."