Podcasts about apostate

In this episode, we continue our deep dive into Ezra Booth's anti-Mormon letters from October 1831, examining how this early apostate mounted his attack against our fledgling church. What fascinates us most is that Booth personally witnessed miracles, including Elsa Johnson's arm being healed, yet later dismissed such spiritual experiences as delusion or deliberate fraud.  We highlight striking logical contradictions in his arguments: he claims only Joseph saw angels, then attacks witness testimonies about seeing them. His scattershot approach, depicting believers as liars, crazy, or stupid, mirrors modern anti-Mormon rhetoric perfectly. Ironically, Booth himself confirms early church members used "Melchizedek priesthood" language and testified of spiritual experiences, undermining later revisionist claims these were later developments. If you are interested in joining us in 2027 in Palmyra and Kirtland, August 1st through August 7th, click on the link below and reserve your spot: https://pci.jotform.com/form/261567888174171 Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ (https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/) If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

This episode of the Standard of Truth continues discussing the apostasy of Ezra Booth, a former Methodist minister who joined the early Church after witnessing Joseph Smith heal Elsa Johnson's arm.  Gerrit traces Booth's journey to Missouri in 1831, his disillusionment upon finding the future site of Zion to be a rough frontier town, and his subsequent public renunciation of the faith through nine letters published in the Ohio Star.  We examine how Booth reframed Mormonism as a deliberate deception rather than sincere belief, and how anti-Mormon arguments shifted from “converts are biblically ignorant” to “converts are insane” once educated ministers joined. Link to the Norm McDonald's Better Than Ezra joke: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Zyaf1Vg4S7I If you are interested in joining us in 2027 in Palmyra and Kirtland, August 1st through August 7th, click on the link below and reserve your spot: https://pci.jotform.com/form/261567888174171 Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ (https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/) If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

2 Timothy 3:10-17

Who was Sirdar Karora Singh and why does the Sikh establishment not want you to know his full story? In this episode of The Sikh Renaissance we tell the complete unfiltered story of the Jatt who was forcibly converted to Islam, returned to Sikhi, was accepted into the Khalsa and founded the Karorasinghyaa Misl. We examine Jatt identity and how Guru Nanak liberated the Jatts from Hindu caste oppression, the rise of the Karorasinghyaas as a Misl era military power, the deliberate Sikh practice of wearing boar tusks as an act of defiance against Islamic prohibition, and why Gurdwara committees have sold out to GOI intelligence networks and suppressed Karora Singh's legacy. This is Sikh history with no apologies and no sanitisation.

"Born a pagan in Persia in the time of the Emperor Constantine, he came to know the Christian faith as a young man, forsook his paganism and received baptism. He was so enchanted with the true Faith that he left all worldly things and became a monk in a monastery near the town of Nisibis. He lived among the brethren for some time, then withdrew into silence, going to Archimandrite Urbel, of whom it is said that, for sixty years, he never ate anything cooked. Urbel made him a deacon, but, when he wanted to make him a priest, Dometius fled to a distant mountain and settled in a cave there. He attained such perfection through fasting, prayer, vigils and meditation that he was able to heal the sick. When Julian the Apostate came to that place, he heard of Dometius and sent men to wall him up alive in the came, with two of his disciples. Thus died this saint of God, in 363, and went to the Kingdom of God." (Prologue). The Great Horologion says that Dometius and his disciples were stoned to death.

In this episode we dive deeper into Ezra Booth, ranked #8 in the "Great Apostate Hall of Shame." Once a prominent Methodist minister leading anti-Masonry campaigns in Ohio, Booth's conversion to Mormonism shocked his community and sparked heated newspaper responses.    We examine his miraculous experiences witnessing the instant healing of Eliza Johnson and attending the historic June 1831 ordination of high priesthood in Kirtland, where Satan allegedly manifested to disrupt proceedings. Yet despite these profound spiritual experiences, Booth would soon apostatize, becoming one of the Church's most vocal and cruel enemies. The episode explores how even those who witness divine power can fall away, emphasizing the importance of daily spiritual practice.   If you are interested in joining us in 2027 in Palmyra and Kirtland, August 1st through August 7th, click on the link below and reserve your spot: https://pci.jotform.com/form/261567888174171   Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ (https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/)   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

This is a big year for Guelph. Our downtown landscape is changing, we have an election in the fall that will usher in a new mayor and council, and then we will mark the city's 200th birthday in the spring. Two centuries ago, it all began with one man from Scotland cutting down a tree near what we now call the Eramosa River, but how much about John Galt do we actually know? Well, as you will recall, one local academic knows a lot... A lot of assumptions have been made about Galt, and the popular wisdom for years was that he was a failure as the head of the Canada Company, yet the city he created survives and thrives 200 years later. But what about Galt as a colonizer? It may surprise you to learn that Galt, ever the iconoclast, had some unusual ideas for how settlers and Indigenous people should get along as equals, and it was among the reasons why he was sent back to Scotland two years after founding Guelph. This week, we're joined by someone who might know Galt better than anyone (in the 21st century). Gil Stelter, a professor emeritus from the history department at the University of Guelph, has dedicated his life's studious endeavours to the man who's name is on the proverbial patent for Guelph. In his career, Stelter has amassed quite a number of insight into the man, his career as a businessman and author, and what his intentions were for Guelph, some of which actually came to pass. Revisiting an interview from the podcast in August 2023, Stelter gives us a breakdown on who John Galt was, and his notoriety beyond the borders of Guelph. He will also talk about what Galt's written works tell us about his thinking, how his relationship with John Brant informed his thinking when settling Guelph, and what Galt might think of Guelph now nearly 200 years later. Also, he will talk about how Galt might have been right at home among the celebrity businessmen of modern day. So let's talk again about the John Galt you don't know on this week's Guelph Politicast! Learning the basics about the life of John Galt is relatively easy, but if you want to follow up on this particular discussion, you can consult Galt's written works, including The Apostate or Atlantis Destroyed, which you can buy through Vocamus Press. You can also watch Stelter's presentation to the Guelph Historical Society on Rogers' YouTube channel. The host for the Guelph Politicast is Podbean. Find more episodes of the Politicast here, or download them on your favourite podcast app at Apple, TuneIn and Spotify . Also, when you subscribe to the Guelph Politicast channel and you will also get an episode of Open Sources Guelph every Monday, and an episode of End Credits every Friday.

Bradlee Dean, author of a new book “Children of the Apostate,” discusses the state of the American Church, biblical truth, spiritual compromise, and the urgent need for repentance and faithful Christian living. bradlee@sonsoflibertyradio.com

2 Timothy 3:10-17

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Richard braves self-diagnosed tuberculosis as he and Dr. Gerrit Dirkmaat dig into the mailbag: identical twins listening from two different Zions, an ambitious MTC zone leader, and a great question from Joni. Did a prophet really call Del Parson's red-robe painting the most accurate likeness of Christ? Gerrit explains why that's folklore, and why the anti-Catholic climate of the Second Great Awakening made images of Jesus and even crosses on churches, unthinkable for early American Protestants.  Then the Great Apostates Hall of Shame lands at #8: Ezra Booth, the Methodist minister converted by a miraculous healing in the Hiram, Ohio home, who reportedly walked away once he realized the Restored Church offered no paid clergy. If you are interested in joining us in 2027 in Palmyra and Kirtland, August 1st through August 7th, click on the link below and reserve your spot: https://pci.jotform.com/form/261567888174171 Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠ (https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com/) If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

He was from the town of Dorostolon in Thrace and during the reign of Julian the Apostate became a servant of the governor in that region. Before the time of his martyrdom he was a secret Christian. An imperial legate arrived in the town with orders to seize all Christians, but failed to find any; to show his pleasure he ordered a great feast for the whole town, complete with sacrifices to the pagan gods. On the night before the appointed feast, Emilian went around the town and smashed all the idols with a hammer. The following day there was an uproar, and an innocent villager was seized and charged with the crime. Emilian, seeing this, said to himself 'If I conceal my action, what sort of use has it been? Shall I not stand before God as the slayer of an innocent man?' So he presented himself to the legate and confessed what he had done. When the furious official asked Emilian on whose orders he had acted, Emilian replied 'God and my soul commanded me to destroy those dead pillars that you call gods.' As punishment, Emilian was subjected to many tortures and finally burned alive.

The podcast begins with the US-Bosnia World Cup match (SEC championships as the definitive metric), then open the Phoebe Draper Palmer Brown mailbag. Jerry from North Dakota earns a heartfelt thank-you and an unnecessary swipe at the Bismarck capitol building, plus a Roosevelt-in-the-Badlands tangent and BYU's windowless MARB building. Elder Ballard (the Nauvoo Mississippi River mission one) requests a new segment: ranking the top apostates.   Enter the debut of the "The Great Apostate Hall of Shame." First up, outside-looking-in: Joseph Wakefield, a powerhouse early missionary who baptized George A. Smith, then apostatized, joined Kirtland's anti-Mormon committee, and helped hire Philastus Hurlbut.   Reason for Apostasy: He couldn't accept D&C 76's expansive vision of heaven. The Takeaway: Don't let any belief become the one that separates you from the prophet.   If you are interested in joining us in 2027 in Palmyra and Kirtland, August 1st through August 7th, click on the link below and reserve your spot: https://pci.jotform.com/form/261567888174171   Sign up for our free monthly email: ⁠ ⁠⁠https://standardoftruthpodcast.substack.com⁠⁠   If you have any questions or possible topics of discussion for upcoming podcasts, please email us at: ⁠⁠questions@standardoftruthpodcast.com

It's Monday, June 29th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Adam McManus Hungarian homosexual pride march draws 100,000 On June 27th, at least 100,000 Hungarians gathered in 100-degree heat in Budapest to celebrate their 31st annual Homosexual Pride march, reports the Associated Press. It's the first such event since conservative Prime Minister Viktor Orbán was defeated in the April election. To his credit, Orban had prohibited the portrayal or "promotion" of homosexuality and gender transition to minors in schools and media aimed at children. Plus, the Hungarian Parliament amended the civil registry law so that official documents permanently record a person's "sex at birth" which ensures that citizens cannot legally pretend to be the opposite sex. And the Parliament limited adoption to married heterosexual couples. Hungary does not allow homosexual marriage. Sadly, under new leadership, all of that may change. Leviticus 18:22 says, “Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.” Venezuelan death toll skyrocketed to 1,430 people Tragically, the death toll in those two major Venezuelan earthquakes last Wednesday has skyrocketed from 164 to 1,430 as of June 27th, reports NBC News. Plus, there are an astounding 51,000 people missing. According to the BBC, emergency teams are still searching for people trapped in buildings that collapsed in the earthquakes. Antoan Marín said, "Rescue workers are overwhelmed. They are pulling people out with their bare hands.” Over 2,000 rescue units from 21 international groups are on the ground in Venezuela or en route. Samaritan's Purse airlifted an Emergency Hospital to Venezuela On Saturday, the Samaritan's Purse cargo plane airlifted life-saving supplies, including an Emergency Field Hospital, to Venezuela. Hospitals in the hardest hit areas were already strained before the earthquakes. Now, many are damaged and overwhelmed with people in desperate need of care. The Samaritan's Purse Emergency Field Hospital is capable of treating more than 100 people each day. It will be equipped with multiple operating rooms, a critical care unit, pharmacy, and laboratory. The ministry has also airlifted emergency shelter material, solar lights, and blankets to provide relief to families who are suffering. Franklin Graham, the president of Samaritan's Purse, said, “Roads have been split wide open and hundreds of buildings have collapsed. People are living on the streets—terrified of aftershocks. It's heartbreaking to see the suffering and loss. We love the people of this country, and we want to do all that we can to help in Jesus' Name.” Send a much-needed gift to help equip Samaritan's Purse in their rescue efforts in Venezuela through a special link in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. 1 John 3:17 says, “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” Three Democratic Socialists win in New York Three Democratic Socialists of America candidates beat establishment Democrats in New York City's June 23rd primary, winning with the backing from the city's democratic socialist mayor, Zohran Mamdani, reports USA Today. Claire Valdez and Darializa Avila Chevalier won in the 7th and 13th Congressional Districts for the U.S. House. Aber Kawas won in New York State Senate District 12. Chevalier and Valdez vowed to abolish Immigration and Customs Enforcement. And Chevalier once said, “I forgot to get napkins so I just wiped my hand on the American flag behind me." Plus, she wants to close down prisons and abolish the police. In 2017, Kawas, a Muslim woman, told a panel that the 9/11 attacks were America's fault, the result of "capitalism and racism and White supremacy ... and Islamophobia." Democrat Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, said this on social media: "Anti-Israel. Anti-America. Anti-Western Civilization. Why am I the only Democrat in the U.S. Senate that refuses to excuse this or defend any of those self-identified communists?" And Republican Congressman Randy Fine of Florida sounded off as well. FINE: “It's a sad day for America. I mean, these people are bad people. We've got to be worried about the future of the country. “The Democrats are no longer the loyal opposition. In many cases, they are the enemy of the country. And I don't think it's hyperbole to say that. These are people who hate America and who seek its destruction.” Texas considers removing American Revolution from mandated history lessons The Texas State Board of Education is proposing changes to mandated school curriculum for the 5.5 million Texas students that would remove lessons about the American Revolution and would marginalize our Founding Fathers, reports Christian talk show host Todd Starnes. Conservatives are alleging that three Republicans joined Democrats to push through radical changes recommended by the Council on American Islamic Relations. Julie Pickren, a conservative Republican on the Texas Board of Education, exposed the group behind these radical changes. PICKREN: “About nine months ago, a foreign terrorist organization called the Council on American-Islamic Relations, which the FBI says is the face of the Muslim Brotherhood in America, they got involved in this process. And they got involved pretty heavily. They started showing up at all of our meetings and testifying, sending a lot of emails, making a lot of phone calls and text messages.” The Texas School Board specifically objected to the stories of Valley Forge as well as the battles of Lexington and Bunker Hill. Instead, the board wanted to provide lessons on modern-day Americans like Oprah Winfrey rather than our first president George Washington. References to the Black Robed Regiment were also removed. That regiment was comprised of a group of Protestant pastors who supported and fought for the American Revolution. Julie Pikren revealed that the three liberal Republicans who sided with the radical Muslim re-write of American history were Pam Little, Will Hickman, and Keven Ellis.  Together with the five Democrats, they formed an 8-person majority voting bloc. Mrs. Pikren explained the motivation of the Muslim lobbyist group. PIKREN: “The terrorists, they don't want U.S. history taught. They don't want founding documents taught. They don't want presidents and founding fathers taught. And it's very sad that these Republicans are aligning with the mandate from a terrorist organization and joining the Democrats in passing this.” Send a polite, but firm short email to these three liberal Republicans on the Texas Board of Education to let them know your objections.  pam.little@sboe.texas.gov,  will.hickman@tea.texas.gov, ellisSBOE@gmail.com   You can find their email addresses in our transcript today at www.TheWorldview.com. Julian the Apostate acknowledged Christ's victory over paganism And finally, 1,663 years ago, on June 26th A.D. 363, Roman Emperor Julian the Apostate died on the battlefield in modern-day Iraq. As his name suggests, he spent his life seeking to restore paganism in the Roman Empire and undo Christian reforms brought by Emperor Constantine the Great. However, in his dying words, Julian admitted, “Thou hast won, O Galilean,” referencing Jesus Christ. These words represented the victory of Christ over Caesar in the first 300 years of history since the Resurrection. Close And that's The Worldview on this Monday, June 29th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

1 And when great multitudes stood about him, so that they trod one upon another, he began to say to his disciples: Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.Multis autem turbis circumstantibus, ita ut se invicem conculcarent, coepit dicere ad discipulos suos : Attendite a fermento pharisaeorum, quod est hypocrisis. 2 For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed: nor hidden, that shall not be known.Nihil autem opertum est, quod non reveletur : neque absconditum, quod non sciatur. 3 For whatsoever things you have spoken in darkness, shall be published in the light: and that which you have spoken in the ear in the chambers, shall be preached on the housetops.Quoniam quae in tenebris dixistis, in lumine dicentur : et quod in aurem locuti estis in cubiculis, praedicabitur in tectis. 4 And I say to you, my friends: Be not afraid of them who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.Dico autem vobis amicis meis : Ne terreamini ab his qui occidunt corpus, et post haec non habent amplius quid faciant. 5 But I will shew you whom you shall fear: fear ye him, who after he hath killed, hath power to cast into hell. Yea, I say to you, fear him.Ostendam autem vobis quem timeatis : timete eum qui, postquam occiderit, habet potestatem mittere in gehennam : ita dico vobis, hunc timete. 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?Nonne quinque passeres veneunt dipondio, et unus ex illis non est in oblivione coram Deo? 7 Yea, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: you are of more value than many sparrows.sed et capilli capitis vestri omnes numerati sunt. Nolite ergo timere : multis passeribus pluris estis vos. 8 And I say to you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God.Dico autem vobis : Omnis quicumque confessus fuerit me coram hominibus, et Filius hominis confitebitur illum coram angelis Dei :These two brothers were officers under Constantius. After the death of this Christian Emperor, they became martyrs at Rome in the persecution of Julian the Apostate, A.D. 362.

In this episode of Haunted Cosmos, we'll explore the downfall and desolation of pagan gods as Christ's kingdom rises.From the fires of Moloch and the death of Pan to the silencing of Delphi, Julian the Apostate's failed revival of paganism, and the conversion of Iceland. Throughout this episode, we trace the stories and legends that point to a single theme: the gods of the old world have been judged.(New shirts will be on the website soon!)Love Haunted Cosmos? Get access to our exclusive show, The Dusty Tome, early ad-free access to main episodes and monthly Livestreams, by becoming a patron of the show: https://www.patreon.com/c/HauntedCosmosThis episode is sponsored by: Indigo Sundries Soap Company - Go to http://indigosundriessoap.com and use code HAUNTEDCOSMOS for 10% off your whole order!Nutricel is making supplements featuring methylene blue that fuel your brain with all day energy. You can get 13% off using code NCP. Visit: nutricel.store/pages/ncpJake Muller Adventures is an immersive, mysterious, and engaging audio drama. Use code "HAUNTED" to claim 10% off all digital downloads. https://www.jakemulleradventures.com/haunted Talk to Josh at Volenté Creative to get help you with your branding and marketing: https://volentecreative.com/ncpRose Solutions provides custom website design, website hosting, and website security. Visit Cosmoswebsites.comGray Toad Tallow. Visit their website here and use COSMOS15 at checkout for 15% off your order. https://graytoadtallow.com/Stonecrop Wealth Advisors! Go to this link to check out their special offers to Haunted Cosmos listeners today. https://stonecropadvisors.com/hauntedcosmosBuy the Haunted Cosmos book: https://www.newchristendompress.com/cosmos PS: It's also available as an audiobook!Support the show

Look at Leviticus; Original languages of the bible; Hebrew - inventive written language; Letters with meaning; Additive letters; Aleph-tav = often untranslated; Lack of phonetics; Misinterpretation; Leprosy?; Understanding Rebekkah; Basic principles of the bible; Child-like understandings; Plagues of faith; Strength of women; Starving the mind; Child-raising; Traumatized by ideas; Reading with inspiration; "Holy"; Biblical beasts in Ezekiel; Chinese famines; "The Good Earth"; Repentance; Life-giving spirit; The Way of the World; Idolatry; Apostate church; Wages of unrighteousness; Covetousness; Reliance on Holy Spirit; Masoretic text; Logic of God and the bible; "Logos" = right reason, logical; Tree of Life; Darkening your eyes; Sabbath; Debating; vs finding the truth; "Tropes"; Rituals and forms; Pure Religion; Jots and tittles; Walking in faith; Gen 19:16; Why did Lot linger?; Cultivating a relationship with Holy Spirit; shin-lamad-shin-lamad-tav; Social welfare via government; Your need to obey government; Welfare snares; Biblical confusion; Word of God; Who's inspired?; Reading nature; "Humanity" for animals?; Reproductive rights?; Trusting in the Lord; "Idolatry"; Taking away neighbor's right to choose; Becoming merchandise; Accepting lies; 2 Kings 16:3, 2 Chronicles 28:3; Hivites, Canaanites, Hittites; Love vs authority; Passing through the fire; Freedom of religion?; Biblical harlot riding a beast?; Forcing neighbor; Abraham's smoking furnace and burning lamp; Cursing your children with debt; Context of the bible; Removing scales from your eyes; "gods"; Col 3:5; Following instructions?; No covetousness; Just weights and measures; Eph 5:5; "Whoremonger"; Tyrants; Practicing pure religion; 1 Cor 5:10; Fornication with world governments; Israelites in Egypt; Finding seekers of His kingdom and righteousness; Organizing in Tens; Ps 106:38; Ez 16:36; Placing your children in debt; Prov 2:16; Prov 20:16; Pledging your rights; Rebekkah = resh-biet-kuf-hey; Messaging in names; Divinely chosen wife/mother; Ensnare?; resh-biet-kuf; Daughter of Betheul; Sister of Leban; Wife of Isaac; Mother of Esau and Jacob; Binding others through marriage and influence; "Melchizedek"; Gen 24:21; Possessions of Abraham.

"The holy Martyrs Manuel, Sabel, and Ishmael, Persians by race and brethren according to the flesh, were sent by the Persian King as ambassadors to Julian the Apostate to negotiate a peace treaty. While with him at a place near Chalcedon, they refused to join him in offering sacrifice to his idols. Scorning the immunity universally accorded ambassadors, he had them slain in the year 362. This was a cause of the war with Persia in which Julian perished miserably the following year." (Great Horologion)

Excuses, excuses: The Parable of the Banquet St. Luke 14:16-24 & Deuteronomy 20:1-9 by The Rev'd Dr. Matthew Colvin I am often asked about “application” in sermons. “I enjoy a good sermon,” someone will say, “but I need to have application so I know what to do with it.” Well, you will notice that neither Fr. Bill nor I, his understudy, do very much with “application.” The pulpit is not the place to give you “ten steps to a better marriage” or “key principles of childrearing” or “the blueprints to build a Christian business.” Rather, we are concerned with the Biblical story, and we want to apply you to it, so that you read the Bible as your story. When Paul says, “These things happened as examples for us, upon whom the ends of the ages have come,” he means that to follow Jesus, we need to understand ourselves as being part of the story of the people of God. That is why Hebrews 11 gives us the “hall of faith”; it is why Stephen's sermon in Acts 7 sums up the entire history of Israel; it is why, when Peter is telling Christian wives to respect their husbands, he calls them “daughters of Sarah.” We are consistently told to inscribe ourselves into the story of God's people Israel. There is nothing more practical. Indeed, if we do not get this right, no amount of “application” will work. Our lectionary for this morning pairs Deuteronomy's laws about exemption from military service with Jesus' parable of the banquet and the excuses made by those who were invited. It is, if we think about it, a very odd transposition, rather as though military language had found its way into a wedding or some similar occasion: “WILT thou have this Woman to thy wedded wife, to live together after God's ordinance in the holy estate of Matrimony? Wilt thou love her, comfort her, honour, and keep her in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, keep thee only unto her, so long as ye both shall live?” “Yes, sir, corporal, SIR. Hoo-ah!” So what is going on here? To understand the parable, we need to think about the nature of banquets and the nature of the excuses. Let's start with the excuses. Verse 20's excuse, “I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come” is an allusion to Deuteronomy 24:5. That passage gives the grounds for the exemption of any newly married bridegroom from military service for a year: “that he may bring happiness to his wife whom he has taken.” There is here something of the logic of the law against boiling a kid in its mother's milk: in both cases, one must not mix up life and death, joy and sorrow. In verse 18, we should understand “I have bought a field and must go out and see it” to mean that the transaction needs to be complete. It is the “closing” of a real estate purchase, not an inspection at leisure that could just as easily be postponed for another day. Legally, socially, this is a very good excuse. Verse 19's excuse about needing to test “five yoke of oxen” recalls the calling of Elisha by Elijah in 1 Kings 19:19. There, Elisha is actually in the middle of plowing when Elijah throws his mantle over him: “Tag, you're it!” This is an act of sudden investiture. Elisha responds to it with alacrity: “he left the oxen and ran after Elijah” and said, “Please let me kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow you.” The excuses are such powerful ones that they actually have statutory warrant in Biblical law. Legally, socially, by all the etiquette of ancient Israel, these excuses are golden, unimpeachable, valid. But in the parable, they are not good excuses in the eyes of the host. Who is he? He is introduced as ἄνθρωπός τις, “a certain man.” Immediately, we recall other parables: “A certain man planted a vineyard, leased it to vinedressers, and went in a far country for a long time.” (Mt 21:33) “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it, and found none.” (Lk. 13:6) “A certain man had two sons.” (Lk. 15:11) “A certain rich man had a steward, and an accusation was brought to him that this man was wasting his goods.” (Lk. 16:1) There are other instances where “a certain man” is someone else, but this is a pretty good sample of instances where “a certain man” is instantly known to stand for God. The parable, then, shows us God's response to the excuse-makers. Note that the “certain man” operates through servants. God is frequently depicted this way, sending his angels and human prophets to do his bidding and deliver his messages. God's reaction to the refusal of his invitations is anger (ὀργισθείς). This requires some explanation. In Matthew's gospel, the banquet is a wedding feast for a king's son, and the invited guests behave much like the wicked vinedressers: they “lay hold of his servants and treat them violently and kill them.” But Luke's version has a different emphasis. It is less allegorized and is designed rather to highlight the reversal of fortune and the approaching deadline. “Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the city and bring here the poor and crippled and blind and lame.” — all of them likely to be beggars, likely to smell bad, likely to be shabbily dressed. Precisely the sort of unsightly people one does not want at a banquet, any sort of banquet. They would never have been invited had not the originally invited guests refused. Just as Esau rejected his birthright and Jacob received it; just as the majority of the Jews rejected the Messiah so that the gospel might be preached to the gentiles, so here, as Paul puts it in 1 Corinthians 1:28, “God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no flesh might boast in the presence of God.” This is someting God did in history. Unlike every other religion on earth, the Bible makes public claims about events that took place at particular times: “In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah, Sennacherib king of Assyria came up against the fortified cities of Judah and took them.” “In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria.” Or even in our Nicene Creed, where week after week, we make mention of the name of a corrupt Roman official named Pontius Pilate. Contrast the claims of other religions: that Mohammad was out there in the desert and an angel appeared to him and dictated the Quran. That Joseph Smith was guided by an angel named Moroni and found gold plates inscribed with “Reformed Hieroglyphics” which he translated into King James English. That Siddartha Gautama was meditating under a fig tree and became enlightened. The Mary Baker Eddy or L. Ron Hubbard or some other guru has discovered the secrets of the universe. Even in antiquity, the Stoic sage or Epicurus or the philosopher in Plato's Republic is never about history. It is always private revelation or special understanding of timeless truths or the realm of forms or deep insight into nature. By contrast, the assumption of Jesus' parables is that God deals with Israel in time. The invitation to the banquet and the host's angry reaction to the invited guests refusal, and the verdict at the end of the story that “none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet” — all presuppose that Israel is facing a decisive crisis in its history. The invitation to the banquet is the gospel summons to follow the Messiah — and this is appropriate, since Jesus is so frequently shown feasting during his earthly ministry. He feasts so much that he incurs the charge of being a glutton and a winebibber. Everywhere he goes, he feasts. He feasts in the house of the Pharisee named Simon; in the house of a tax collector named Zacchaeus; at a wedding at Cana; in company with immoral women, and with “tax collectors and sinners.” This was unusual even by Jewish standards, so that some come to Jesus and ask him, “The Pharisees and the disciples of John fast a lot, but your disciples do not fast.” Jesus explains that the disciples of Jesus do not fast because the bridegroom is with them. What is the appropriate response to the invitation? What do etiquette and emotional rightness and social expectation dictate? Jesus' words about John's ministry and the Jews' reaction to it, in Luke 7:32, are couched in similar terms: “We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; We mourned to you, and you did not weep.” The refusal to recognize Jesus as the one Israel has been waiting for is like the refusal of the invitation to the feast. It is a rejection of the good ending of the story, a refusal to take part in the consummation. It is as if all the actors walked off the stage of a Shakespeare play after act 4. There are times when we want to describe a process has failed to produce its intended fulfillment and consummation — say, when I am talking to my Greek students who are struggling with Greek grammar and vocabulary. If they never go on to actually read Greek literature, I say it is like “a courtship without a marriage.” This is not about timeless truths or Buddhist spiritual enlightenment. A marriage is a historical event. That is the language that God uses about his relationship with his people. The coming of Jesus is the climax of Israel's story. And to everyone, the invitation poses the stark alternative: either enter into the banquet, or be excluded. Remember the older brother of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15: Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and sound.' But he was angry and refused to go in•. (Luke 15:25–28, ESV) Or we may recall the words of Jesus after he has healed the centurion's servant in Matthew 8:11: I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness. (Matthew 8:11–12, ESV) Or there is the parable of the wise and foolish virgins in Matthew 25: And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. 11 “Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!' 12 But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.' (Matthew 25:10–12) Or we may remember what C.S. Lewis calls the “unforgettable words” in John's gospel's account of the Last Supper, once Jesus has handed the sop to Judas and told him, “What you are going to do, do quickly”: So, after receiving the morsel of bread, he immediately went out. And it was night.  (John 13:30, ESV) It was night. Judas is literally in the outer darkness. To be excluded from the banquet, to be shut out in the darkness, away from the light and joy of the wedding or the feast or the Passover meal, is all the more tragic in light of the fact that those who are excluded are the very ones who had been invited. Jesus “came to his own, and his own did not receive him.” The result is a crucial difference between Judaism and Christianity over the place of Jesus in the story of the people of God. Can you be a Jew and believe in Jesus? It is a silly question. All the original disciples were Jews. As Peter says, “The promise is to you and to your children” and “You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant that God made with your fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your offspring shall all the families of the earth be blessed.' (Acts 3:25, ESV) But can you follow Rabbinic Judaism and believe that Jesus is the Messiah? That is a different question. The Church places Jesus at the hinge of history, dating our years with the words “Anno Domini” from his first coming and looking forward to his second coming, when he will judge the quick and the dead. Judaism, by contrast, denies that Jesus is the Messiah, and insists that all the passages of Scripture that point to him — the sacrifice of Isaac by Abraham, Joseph and his brothers, the suffering servant in Isaiah, “behold a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel”, Zechariah's “behold your king comes to you, meek and having compassion, lowly and riding on a donkey,” David's beloved son Absalom suspended from a tree and pierced by a spear, and all the rest — are really not about him. Christians say, with Paul, “Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us; therefore, let us keep the feast.” In saying this, we are saying that Christ is the climax of the story. It is the natural function of feasting to mark consummations. Weddings, coronations, graduation, retirements, anniversaries, birthdays — all are marked by parties, cakes, feasting, toasts, ceremony. And that is the difference between Christianity and Judaism: Has the story of Israel reached its climax? Has the bridegroom come? Does history now stand revealed as His story? Or are we, with the Rabbis, in the position of insisting that the messiah has not come, and that the Passover does not point to him. God had promised Moses that “I will raise up for them a Prophet like you from among their brethren, and will put My words in His mouth, and He shall speak to them all that I command Him. And it shall be that whoever will not hear My words, which He speaks in My name, I will require it of him.”  (Deuteronomy 18:18–19, NKJV) And the rabbis say, “Jesus is certainly not the prophet like Moses, but unfortunately he is so much like Moses that we had better delete Moses from the Passover liturgy, lest Christians start using the haggadah to persuade Jews to follow Jesus.” And that is what they have done. David Daube says, “…[T]he figure of Moses, dominating the Biblical narrative of the exodus from Egypt and, naturally, at one time prominent, too, in the celebration of the deliverance on Passover eve, is radically eliminated: in the Passover eve liturgy as it stands, his name is not mentioned once in any of the prayers and recitals woven around the Biblical record, and, more than that, no Biblical passage mentioning it is quoted. It is a fantastic tour de force. Think  what it means. It is as if one were to spend annually a night commemorating Britain's rescue in the Second World War, rehearsing the main course of events as well as telling elaborate stories about them — without once mentioning Churchill. A fantastic tour de force: but there must be no human Mediator. We are left with a religion full of pointers that were designed to lead us to Jesus as the climax of the covenant, but the rabbis insist that they do not; a religion of tabernacle and temple that are all about God dwelling with His people, but now that Jesus has come, and ascended and sent the Holy Spirit, complete with the sound of “a mighty rushing wind that filled the whole house where they sat” just like God moving into the temple of Solomon and the tabernacle of Moses — now, no, the rabbis say, it is not about Jesus. But then, Judaism no longer has a temple, and the entire system that God gave in the Torah does not work without the Temple. The emperor Constantine's grandson, Julian the Apostate, hated Christianity and decided he wanted to prove it false, and the way he decided to do it was by rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem that had been destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD, in fulfillment of Jesus' prophecies on the Mount of Olives. Julian died before he could do it. Again, Judaism is a religion whose Scriptures promised the forgiveness of sins, so that God's people could live with him, and that demonstrated, as though by a gigantic show and tell of continual slaughter of animals for centuries, of daily splashing of blood against the altar, of red heifers sacrificed every year on the day of atonement, that the forgiveness of sins would happen through blood. But now, the rabbis tell us, the death of Christ was not the fulfillment of the sacrificial system — and oh, by the way, you can't offer sacrifice anymore, anyway. There are still people named “Cohen” or “Cohn” — my mother in law's family, for instance — but they are more likely to be making movies than sacrificing animals. They continue to set out a cup for Elijah, that forerunner of the Messiah promised in Malachi. And Jesus says, “But I say to you that Elijah has come already, and they did not know him but did to him whatever they wished. (Matthew 17:12, NKJV) The church father, Athanasius of Alexandria puts it this way in his On the Incarnation: So the Jews are telling fables, and putting off the time which is actually now… They are suffering like one, maimed in mind, who might see the earth illumined by the sun, but denies the sun which illumines it. For what more has he who is expected by them to do when he comes? Call the Gentiles? But they have already been called. To make prophet and king and vision to cease? This has already happened. To refute the godlessness of idols? It has already been refuted and condemned. To destroy death? It is already destroyed. What then must christ do, which has not been done? Or what is left unfulfilled, that the Jews now rejoice and disbelieve? For if, as we see, they have neither king, nor prophet, nor Jerusalem, nor sacrifice, nor vision, but the whole world is filled with the knowledge of God, and those from the Gentiles are abandoning godlessness, and henceforth taking refuge in the God of Abraham through the Word, our Lord Jesus Christ, it should be clear even to those who are exceedingly obstinate that Christ has come, and that he illumines absolutely all with his light and teaches the true and divine teaching concerning his Father. We are about to partake of Holy Communion, which is rightly understood as a continuation of Jesus' meals with his disciples, and an anticipation of the great wedding feast of the Lamb at which “many will come from east and west and recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” The Holy Communion is thus truly the consummation of the story of people of God. By partaking in it, we share in Christ our Passover. We have been crucified with Him, so that we may also share in his resurrection. We locate ourselves in the story of Israel, which is the story of the Messiah. And we recite the shape of the story and inscribe ourselves in it when we say, “Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.”

(This podcast was previously published on July 18, 2021)   Jesus Ministries, Joan Boney  ...   A pastor in Colorado Springs, Colorado (USA), sent me an email with the following requests:   He would like to know this from me:   1. Your word of exhortation on today's churches. 2. How God has led you to where you live with Pam in Colorado Springs?  

We're capable of more than we realize. Dr. Tony Evans introduces a man who failed deeply but was restored to accomplish great things for God.

We're capable of more than we realize. Dr. Tony Evans introduces a man who failed deeply but was restored to accomplish great things for God.

With the Mandalorian & Grogu coming to the theaters very soon, we are going back to The Mandalorian.  We got a twist, big T & LIL t have 1 minute a piece to break down the episode.  Season 3 Episode 17 - "The Apostate". Mando gets guidance from the Armourer that he needs to go to the Mines of Mandalore. He tries to get some help from Bo and she is not having any of it. Red One, R5 gets his hero moment, reluctantly.  Drop as a voice memo or email at bigtliltpodcast@gmail.com. big T & LIL T

We picture him as a romantic tragedy. The last pagan emperor. Philosopher, soldier, true believer. Pouring wine at the old altars while the Christian empire watches in silence.That's the myth. This is the autopsy.By 361 AD, the Christian church wasn't just a religion anymore. It had become the infrastructure. Bishops were running grain networks. The officer corps had been baptized for a generation. The state's administrative spine had been quietly rewired around Christian institutions across fifty years of Constantine's policy.Julian didn't fail because he chose the wrong gods. He failed because once a transformation reaches a certain depth, it stops being policy and starts becoming architecture. You can argue with a belief system. You can outlaw a ritual. You can even remove the people at the top. But once the thing is load-bearing — once the system itself depends on it — reversing it becomes something else entirely.This is the story of why the ratchet only moves in one direction, and why every reform movement eventually faces the same wall Julian hit.00:00 — The Autopsy Begins01:36 — Welcome to The Roman Pattern01:50 — Constantine's 50-Year Wiring03:26 — Julian Inherits a Load-Bearing Church04:19 — Julian's Hidden Paganism05:16 — First Fault Line: Money07:08 — Once Load-Bearing, Always Load-Bearing08:08 — Second Fault Line: Power09:35 — Julian Reforms Paganism Using Christian Logic10:35 — Antioch and the Death of Memory12:36 — Third Fault Line: Borders and Persia13:36 — The Persian Campaign Collapse14:39 — Julian Dies in the Field15:32 — Jovian's Christian Reversal16:55 — The Ratchet: One Direction Only21:21 — Why This Isn't Only About Rome23:14 — Same Pattern, Different Century25:28 — The Spear Arrives

He was a soldier in the Roman army during the reign of Julian the Apostate. Like many soldiers, he was a secret Christian, serving under the Imperial commander Bacchus when his troops battled the Franks. A mighty Frankish soldier, like Goliath, challenged the Romans to send one of their company out to do single combat with him. The commander sent Barbarus, who prayed to the Lord and overcame the Frankish giant, after which the Frankish army was easily vanquished. The commander then ordered a triumph in celebration of victory, including a public sacrifice to the Roman idols. At the sacrifice, the commander noticed that Barbarus was standing aside and asked him why: Barbarus revealed that he was a Christian and could not make sacrifice to the idols. The commander reported this to the unbelieving Emperor, who ordered that Barbarus be put to torture. Barbarus endured many cruel torments with serenity and courage. During his tortures, many wonders were seen, and many of his fellow-soldiers embraced the Christian faith. Three of these were Bacchus, Barbarus' commander; Callimachus; and Dionysius. All three were beheaded for confessing Christ, then Barbarus himself attained the Martyr's crown through beheading.

What does an Apostate Church look like in real time? In this episode, The Smith and Rowland Show tackles the Characteristics of apostasy that are reshaping the modern Church. This conversation gets straight to the point. Jeff Smith and Allan Rowland talk about falling church attendance, changing doctrine, deconstruction in major denominations, and the growing confusion over biblical authority. They also address hard issues that many churches avoid, including homosexuality, hell, women in church leadership, and the loss of sound doctrine. At the center of this episode is one clear message: when people lose their understanding of Scripture, they start reaching the wrong conclusions. Because of that, the Church doesn't just drift on one issue, it drifts on many. This episode explains why context matters, why dispensational Bible teaching matters, and why preaching the Word still matters more than ever. There is also hope in this discussion. While the warning signs are serious, the answer is still the same, preach the Word, know the Word, and refuse to ignore what is happening in front of us. Smith and Rowland don't soften the subject, but they also don't give up on revival. If you've been watching the culture shift and wondering why so many churches are changing, this episode will help put words to what you're seeing. Watch, listen, and share with someone who cares about truth, repentance, revival, and the future of the Church. Brought to you by kingdompropheticsociety.org #ApostateChurch #ChristianPodcast #BibleTeaching #ChurchDoctrine #TheSmithAndRowlandShow

The Mandalorian Chapter 17: The Apostate.Episode 17 of The Mandalorian, THE APOSTATE, brings Mando back to the Covert with Grogu as he seeks absolution for having removed his helmet and the show seeks to restart after a long hiatus. We also learn:- Navarro has changed a lot- Tatooine is the place for everything Outer Rim- Bo Katan has lost her team- Mandalore may be habitable after all- The difficulties of establishing story continuity across showsWas this first episode of Season 3 a strong start, or a stumble out of the gate?As we all anticipate the release of The Mandalorian & Grogu,  John & Matt are celebrating with a rewatch and detailed discussions of The Mandalorian, the Season 2. Join them as they debate and analyze like no other Star Wars podcast on the internet!HostJohn Mills and Matthew RushingYou've found the best Star Wars podcast with one-of-a-kind discussions in the spirit of fun! While you're here, look around our creator-focused network of podcasts with all the best of Star Trek, a deep-dive read of Harry Potter's magical world, analysis of film's greatest directors, and breaking news from top names in international film festivals, and so much more!Send us your feedback!Twitter: @TheJediMasters   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheNerdParty/ Email: http://www.thenerdparty.com/contactSubscribe in Apple Podcasts

This holy martyr was a married man, living in Cappadocia. During the reign of Julian the Apostate he, along with some other Christians, destroyed the pagan temple to the goddess Fortuna. (The Prologue says that it was his wedding day). For this he and his companions were cruelly tortured, then beheaded.   At that time St Basil the Great governed the Church in that part of Cappadocia. When the apostate Emperor, going to fight the Persians, came to the town in which Eupsychius was martyred, St Basil went to meet him, bringing three barley loaves as a sign of honor and welcome. The Emperor, ever hostile to Christians, ordered that the bishop be given a fistful of hay in return. Saint Basil said to the Emperor 'You ridicule us now, O King; we bring you bread, by which we are fed, and you give us miserable food that you, with all your power, are unable to turn into nourishment for men.' The Emperor perished in the Persian campaign.

#ELOsoFumarTakes #359thTake – LIVE TOMORROW NIGHT   Brandon Oveson and Kendrick Woolstenhulme didn't just start a cigar company… they built a brand rooted in identity, conviction, and a story that challenges the norm. From Utah to the Dominican Republic, their journey—and their cigars—are anything but ordinary.   This episode dives into: – The story behind Apostate – What it really takes to build a brand that stands for something – The mindset behind their blends and bold identity   If you appreciate great cigars and even better stories, this one's for you.   Pour a drink. Light something special.   #ELOsoFumarTakes #Cigars #ApostateCigars #LiveShow #BoutiqueCigars #CigarLife

The Greek Tyron means "conscript." This holy Martyr of Christ came from Pontus and was a Roman legionary during Maximian's persecution (~303). Though he had been a Christian since childhood, he kept his faith secret while in the army. While his cohort was stationed near a town called Euchaita, he learned that the people there were being terrorized by a dragon which lived in the neighboring forest. He set off to face the dragon, praying to God that the outcome of the contest would be a sign to him of whether the time had come to offer himself for martyrdom. He found the fire-spitting monster and, arming himself with the sign of the Cross, drove his spear through its head and killed it.   His success convinced him that, having vanquished this fleshly dragon, he was ready to vanquish the spiritual dragon, the Devil. When the commander of his camp next ordered a sacrifice to the Gods, Theodore boldly refused, saying "I am a Christian!" Further, he encouraged the other Christians in his company to do the same. That night he went to a nearby pagan temple of Rhea, mother of the gods, and burned it down. He was seen by the caretaker of the temple and was brought unresisting to the governor Publius. Theodore was thrown into a solitary dungeon cell; there he refused bread and water, saying that Christ had promised him food from heaven. He spent his time there chanting hymns with the angels, so that the guards were convinced that other Christians had somehow joined him in his cell.   When all argument, cajolery, bribery and threat had failed to turn the soldier from Christ, the governor resorted to torture, subjecting the Saint to terrible mutilations; but when Theodore endured them calmly and resolutely, the governor began to fear that his example would encourage other Christians, and ordered that he be burned. Taken to the stake, the Martyr walked freely into the flames, where he gave back his soul to God. When his body was ransomed and taken from the ashes by a pious Christian, it was found to be untouched. A church was built in Euchaita in honor of the Martyr; many pilgrims came there for the healing of soul and body.   In 361, the Emperor Julian the Apostate ordered the Prefect of Constantinople to have all foods in the marketplaces sprinkled with blood of animals sacrificed to the pagan gods during the first week of Lent, so that Christians would be unable to escape contact with idolatry. But St Theodore appeared in a vision to Patriarch Eudoxius (360-364), warned him of the plan and told him to instruct his flock not to buy any food in the marketplace, but to eat kolyva made from boiled wheat grains. So, through the Saint's intervention, the people were preserved from the stain of idolatry. Ever since, the Church has commemorated the miracle on the first Saturday of Great Lent. Since that time kolyva has come to be offered also in honor of the Saints and in memory of the departed. The whole grain represents the body, sown corruptible, which will be raised incorruptible (2 Cor. 15:37); it is usually sweetened with honey to signify the delights of Paradise.

Dr. Smith delves into the transformative conversion of Saul in Acts 9, highlighting the radical shift in his identity and loyalties. Saul, once a persecutor of Christians, experiences a dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. Blinded by a divine light, he undergoes three days of introspection, fasting, and wrestling with his newfound understanding. Ananias, a disciple, is then called to restore Saul's sight, marking the beginning of Saul's new path as an apostle to the Gentiles. This conversion demonstrates the power of God's grace to change lives and advance the Gospel, even amidst opposition.

Dr. Smith delves into the transformative conversion of Saul in Acts 9, highlighting the radical shift in his identity and loyalties. Saul, once a persecutor of Christians, experiences a dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. Blinded by a divine light, he undergoes three days of introspection, fasting, and wrestling with his newfound understanding. Ananias, a disciple, is then called to restore Saul's sight, marking the beginning of Saul's new path as an apostle to the Gentiles. This conversion demonstrates the power of God's grace to change lives and advance the Gospel, even amidst opposition.

In this episode, Sam and Hank trace the dramatic rise of Gregory of Nazianzus from his elite education in Athens to the violent, high-stakes streets of 4th-century Constantinople. They explore how geopolitical chaos—including the Huns' invasion and the death of an Emperor—set the stage for Gregory to defend Nicene Trinitarianism against the brilliant logic of his rival, Eunomius. The discussion bridges the gap between ancient theology and modern political polarization, revealing how the "Five Theological Orations" were forged in a crucible of riot, refugee crises, and state-enforced orthodoxy.We mention : Gregory of Nazianzus, Gregory the Elder, Nona, Constantine, Basil of Caesarea (Basil the Great), Flavius Julianus (Julian the Apostate), St. Augustine, Eustathius, Origen of Alexandria, Athanasius, Eunomius, Arius, Scott Hahn, Bergstrom, Paul Vanderlay (  @PaulVanderKlay  ) , John the Apostle, Jordan Peterson, Kathy Newman, Caiaphas, Valens, Samuel, Valentinian, Gregory of Nyssa, Ambrose of Milan, J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Gratian, Pope Damasus, Peter of Alexandria, Vladimir Putin.

LINKS TO GUESTS:  @ApostateProphet  @JakeBrancatella2.0  Special thank you to our DEBATECON 7 sponsors including: Yonaguni International Cuisine in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico: https://share.google/6WuEgX9yQH7ywI7RF  @UncensoredAmerica  The Gospel Truth: https://TGTConference2026.eventbrite.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This light of the Church is one of only three holy Fathers whom the Church has honored with the name "the Theologian" (the others are St John the Evangelist and Theologian, and St Symeon the New Theologian).   He was born in 329 in Arianzus in Cappadocia to a pious and holy family: his father Gregory, mother Nonna, brother Caesarius and sister Gorgonia are all counted among the Saints of the Church. His father later became Bishop of Nazianzus. He studied in Palestine, then in Alexandria, then in Athens. On the way to Athens, his ship was almost sunk in a violent storm; Gregory, who had not yet been baptized, prayed to the Lord to preserve him, and promised that henceforth he would dedicate his entire life to God. Immediately the storm ceased.   In Athens, Gregory's fellow students included St Basil the Great and the future Emperor Julian the Apostate. The friendship between Gregory and Basil blossomed into a true spiritual friendship; they were loving brothers in Christ for the rest of their lives. After completing their studies, Sts Gregory and Basil lived together as monks in hermitage at Pontus. Much against St Gregory's will, his father ordained him a priest, and St Basil consecrated him Bishop of Sasima (in the Archdiocese of Caesarea, over which St Basil was Archbishop).   In 381 the Second Ecumenical Council condemned Macedonius, Archbishop of Constantinople, and appointed St Gregory in his place. When he arrived in the City, he found that the Arians controlled all the churches, and he was forced to "rule" from a small house chapel. From there he preached his five great sermons on the Trinity, the Triadika; these were so powerfully influential that when he left Constantinople two years later, every church in the City had been restored to the Orthodox.   St Gregory was always a theologian and a contemplative, not an administrator, and the duties of Archbishop were agonizing to him. In 382 he received permission from a council of his fellow-bishops and the Emperor to retire from the see of Constantinople. He returned to Nazianzus (for which reason he is sometimes called St Gregory of Nazianzus). There he reposed in peace in 391 at the age of sixty-two.   His writings show a theological depth and a sublimity of expression perhaps unsurpassed in the Church. His teaching on the Holy Trinity is a great bastion of Orthodox Faith; in almost every one of his published homilies he preaches the Trinity undivided and of one essence.

This message was given by Pastor DJ Ritchey on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Memorial Heights Baptist Church.

Episode 363 brings two first time guests to Prime Time, Brandon Oveson & Kendrick Woolstenhulme of Apostate Cigars. Apostate Cigars is one of the more unique brands we have seen hit the cigar industry. Last year the company made headlines by joining the family of Oveja Negra Brands. We will talk with Brandon and Kendrick on the story of their brand and this new partnership. Plus, we will have our FSG Beef Question of the Night, Tabacalera USA Ties That Bind, Alec Bradley Live True, Espinosa Today in Sports History, and the Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust Deliberation segments.

Episode 363 brings two first time guests to Prime Time, Brandon Oveson & Kendrick Woolstenhulme of Apostate Cigars. Apostate Cigars is one of the more unique brands we have seen hit the cigar industry. Last year the company made headlines by joining the family of Oveja Negra Brands. We will talk with Brandon and Kendrick on the story of their brand and this new partnership. Plus, we will have our FSG Beef Question of the Night, Tabacalera USA Ties That Bind, Alec Bradley Live True, Espinosa Today in Sports History, and the Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust Deliberation segments.

Mike Aquilina on Julian the Apostate, exploring his rise to power, rejection of Christianity, efforts to revive paganism, and the lasting lessons drawn from his life and legacy. The post VEC11 – Julian the Apostate – Villains of the Early Church with Mike Aquilina – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Jasmine Crockett has been drawn out of her congressional district—and now her pastor, Freddie Haynes III, wants her seat. In this episode, I break down why apostate pastors entering politics is devastating to the Black community and dishonoring to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We expose the Iron Triangle—black preachers, politicians, and activists working as paid conduits for the Democratic Party—and why this model has produced cultural decay, dependency, and spiritual bankruptcy. A pastor who can talk about race, equity, and politics—but never mentions Jesus Christ—has already told on himself.

On this episode of Crosspolitic One-on-One, Gabe welcomes on Dr. Mark Christian, founder of the Global Faith Institute, to talk about the issue of political Islam in America and why Christians need to understand the true nature of Islamic ideology and how to effectively witness to Muslims while defending America's constitutional Christian foundations. Read Dr. Mark Christian's book The Apostate: My Search for Truth here: https://www.amazon.com/Apostate-My-Search-Truth-ebook/dp/B09N91YMMX?ref_=ast_author_mpb

On this episode of Crosspolitic One-on-One, Gabe welcomes on Dr. Mark Christian, founder of the Global Faith Institute, to talk about the issue of political Islam in America and why Christians need to understand the true nature of Islamic ideology and how to effectively witness to Muslims while defending America's constitutional Christian foundations. Read Dr. Mark Christian's book The Apostate: My Search for Truth here: https://www.amazon.com/Apostate-My-Search-Truth-ebook/dp/B09N91YMMX?ref_=ast_author_mpb

New quests, who dis? The Mandalorian's third series opens with a tempting array of side quests: Spelunking into the Mines of Mandalore, rebuilding IG-11, rejoining the Children of the Watch, and actively parenting Grogu. What will Mando choose?In our recap of The Mandalorian's Season 3 premiere, “The Apostate,” we talk through Nevarro's glow-up, the Mandalorian covert's new digs, and Bo-Katan's next move. There are a lot of players this season, and many of them are on a path to redemption.New to Growing Up Skywalker? Come join us for non-toxic Star Wars recaps from a veteran and a new fan. New episodes every Tuesday.Want more Growing Up Skywalker? This is a great time to sign up for our Patreon for bonus audio content! (Visions S3 content is ongoing!)Timestamps:00:00:00 Who Are We?00:03:31 Plot Summary00:12:05 The New Children of the Watch00:16:39 Bo-Katan's Next Move00:27:10 Nevarro's Glow-Up and The Pirates00:39:08 Actively Parenting Grogu00:54:03 Bae Watch01:02:58 Closing Thoughts

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Huge thank you to our sponsor Maine First Project, check them out here! https://mainefirstproject.org/ MDD INSIDER'S LIST: For advanced notice on when DEBATECON tickets will launch (and discount codes on tickets), join our insider's list here: https://forms.gle/rzSErHXrwdinZxPM8 HOST A DEBATECON AT YOUR UNIVERSITY: Want to host a DEBATECON (or a one-off debate) at your university or church? Email Dr. James at moderndaydebate@gmail.com to find out more! LINKS TO GUESTS:  @DrJavadTHashmi  @ApostateProphet  ______________________________________________________________________________________ WANT TO PARTICIPATE? Application to participate in our upcoming group dialogues on religion & politics in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, or Phoenix: https://forms.gle/mYna35upEidoTp3C9 ______________________________________________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER The views shared by guests on Modern-Day Debate are not necessarily representative of the views of Modern-Day Debate, James, or any university he has or has had any affiliation withAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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Ridvan Aydemir, known online as Apostate Prophet, is a Turkish-born former Muslim who grew up in a devout Sunni household and later became a prominent critic of Islam. After a period of intense religious study and ideological shifts—including atheism, secular communism, and Judaism—he became an Orthodox Christian catechumen. Ridvan launched his YouTube channel in 2017 to document his deconversion and critique Islamic teachings, gaining notoriety for controversial videos and public debates with Muslim apologists. A staunch advocate of free speech, he has been critical of both Islamic doctrine and Western institutions that, in his view, suppress legitimate criticism of Islam. Ridvan regularly collaborates with both atheist and Christian thinkers and has debated numerous Muslim figures on theology, human rights, and religious history.