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What does it mean when Isaiah 49:23 calls kings "nursing fathers" to God's people? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird examine one of the most debated passages in Christian political theology. Looking at Isaiah 49, Numbers 11, and the historic Reformed tradition, they explain why civil rulers are called to protect, nourish, and support the church—not as replacements for Christ or the church's spiritual authority, but as ministers of God for the good of His people.
What does it mean when Isaiah 49:23 calls kings "nursing fathers" to God's people? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird examine one of the most debated passages in Christian political theology. Looking at Isaiah 49, Numbers 11, and the historic Reformed tradition, they explain why civil rulers are called to protect, nourish, and support the church—not as replacements for Christ or the church's spiritual authority, but as ministers of God for the good of His people.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
What does it mean when Isaiah 49:23 calls kings "nursing fathers" to God's people? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird examine one of the most debated passages in Christian political theology. Looking at Isaiah 49, Numbers 11, and the historic Reformed tradition, they explain why civil rulers are called to protect, nourish, and support the church—not as replacements for Christ or the church's spiritual authority, but as ministers of God for the good of His people.
Is religious pluralism a blessing to society, or does false worship harm the commonwealth? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird examine the limits of religious pluralism, the difference between denominational diversity and false worship, and why religious neutrality in civil government is impossible. Drawing from Scripture, George Gillespie, Samuel Rutherford, Charles Hodge, and the historic Protestant tradition, they argue that false worship is never morally neutral and that civil government must ultimately be ordered according to God's moral law for the good of society. Topics include: Religious pluralism Christian nationalism False worship Church and state Protestant political theology Civil magistrates Religious liberty George Gillespie Samuel Rutherford
Is religious pluralism a blessing to society, or does false worship harm the commonwealth?In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird examine the limits of religious pluralism, the difference between denominational diversity and false worship, and why religious neutrality in civil government is impossible. Drawing from Scripture, George Gillespie, Samuel Rutherford, Charles Hodge, and the historic Protestant tradition, they argue that false worship is never morally neutral and that civil government must ultimately be ordered according to God's moral law for the good of society.Topics include: Religious pluralismChristian nationalism False worshipChurch and stateProtestant political theologyCivil magistratesReligious libertyGeorge GillespieSamuel RutherfordWatch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Is religious pluralism a blessing to society, or does false worship harm the commonwealth? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird examine the limits of religious pluralism, the difference between denominational diversity and false worship, and why religious neutrality in civil government is impossible. Drawing from Scripture, George Gillespie, Samuel Rutherford, Charles Hodge, and the historic Protestant tradition, they argue that false worship is never morally neutral and that civil government must ultimately be ordered according to God's moral law for the good of society. Topics include: Religious pluralism Christian nationalism False worship Church and state Protestant political theology Civil magistrates Religious liberty George Gillespie Samuel Rutherford
Did Christians really try to amend the U.S. Constitution to formally recognize Jesus Christ? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird uncover the forgotten story of the National Reform Association and its 19th-century effort to acknowledge God, Jesus Christ, and the Bible within the Constitution. They explore how leading Presbyterians, Old Princeton theologians, and the Presbyterian General Assembly of 1864 understood civil government, religious liberty, and Christ's authority over the nations. Whether you agree or disagree with their conclusions, this remarkable chapter of American history raises important questions about Christianity's role in public life and what has been lost in our national memory.
Did Christians really try to amend the U.S. Constitution to formally recognize Jesus Christ? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird uncover the forgotten story of the National Reform Association and its 19th-century effort to acknowledge God, Jesus Christ, and the Bible within the Constitution. They explore how leading Presbyterians, Old Princeton theologians, and the Presbyterian General Assembly of 1864 understood civil government, religious liberty, and Christ's authority over the nations. Whether you agree or disagree with their conclusions, this remarkable chapter of American history raises important questions about Christianity's role in public life and what has been lost in our national memory.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Did Christians really try to amend the U.S. Constitution to formally recognize Jesus Christ? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird uncover the forgotten story of the National Reform Association and its 19th-century effort to acknowledge God, Jesus Christ, and the Bible within the Constitution. They explore how leading Presbyterians, Old Princeton theologians, and the Presbyterian General Assembly of 1864 understood civil government, religious liberty, and Christ's authority over the nations. Whether you agree or disagree with their conclusions, this remarkable chapter of American history raises important questions about Christianity's role in public life and what has been lost in our national memory.
Josh Howard presents a recorded talk from the 2026 pre-conference summarizing research on disciple-making churches and the seven core practices they share. Those seven practices are convictional leadership; obedience-based, reproducible models; prayer and Scripture as the foundation; relational community; clear pathways and expectations; mission beyond the walls; and leadership alignment. The episode explains how these principles work across different models, offers practical examples, and invites churches to apply the practices to grow a disciple-making culture. Stay informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It? https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast: https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/
If your church disappeared tomorrow, would your town even notice? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird discuss biblical localism and what faithful Christian influence looks like in everyday life. Rather than chasing national change while neglecting what is near, Christians are called to begin with personal faithfulness, the household, the church, and the local community. From raising godly families and serving the church to attending city council meetings, building Christian networks, and strengthening local institutions, this conversation presents a practical vision for lasting kingdom influence—one faithful step at a time.
If your church disappeared tomorrow, would your town even notice? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird discuss biblical localism and what faithful Christian influence looks like in everyday life. Rather than chasing national change while neglecting what is near, Christians are called to begin with personal faithfulness, the household, the church, and the local community. From raising godly families and serving the church to attending city council meetings, building Christian networks, and strengthening local institutions, this conversation presents a practical vision for lasting kingdom influence—one faithful step at a time.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
If your church disappeared tomorrow, would your town even notice? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird discuss biblical localism and what faithful Christian influence looks like in everyday life. Rather than chasing national change while neglecting what is near, Christians are called to begin with personal faithfulness, the household, the church, and the local community. From raising godly families and serving the church to attending city council meetings, building Christian networks, and strengthening local institutions, this conversation presents a practical vision for lasting kingdom influence—one faithful step at a time.
FACT or FICTION but AG Addition! Tune in to the latest episode of TRUTALK, where we tackle some of agriculture's most debated topics. Join hosts Josh Howard and Jackson Lyons, along with special guest Marty Park, as they challenge common beliefs, share perspectives, and separate fact from fiction across a variety of ag-related discussions
In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird respond to horrifying reports from Great Britain and ask a sobering question: What happens when civil authorities stop punishing evil and begin protecting it?Using the famous Barnhouse warning about Satan taking over a city, they examine how judicial failure, social decay, and gospel-less churches are often connected—not isolated problems.What is the Christian response when justice collapses?Prayer, courage, local faithfulness, and unwavering commitment to Christ's rule. Christians must oppose evil without losing hope, because Christ still reigns.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird respond to horrifying reports from Great Britain and ask a sobering question: What happens when civil authorities stop punishing evil and begin protecting it?Using the famous Barnhouse warning about Satan taking over a city, they examine how judicial failure, social decay, and gospel-less churches are often connected—not isolated problems.What is the Christian response when justice collapses?Prayer, courage, local faithfulness, and unwavering commitment to Christ’s rule. Christians must oppose evil without losing hope, because Christ still reigns.
Josh Howard shares what it means to "own the mission" of making disciples. He recounts his time in India where local believers taught him what true discipleship looks like and why Western approaches often fall short. The episode emphasizes personal commitment to living like Jesus did, mentoring others through practical obedience, and releasing control to multiply disciple-making movements. Josh challenges listeners to start small, invite others to walk with them, and prioritize being disciples worth reproducing. Stay informed - Get our newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hPViAr Get Discipleship.org's premium Podcast Feed: https://disciplemakerspodcast.supercast.com/ Check out the following eBooks from Discipleship.org: -- What Is Church? And How Important Is It? https://discipleship.org/shop/what-is-church-and-how-important-is-it/ -- Family Discipleship Blueprint: A Year-by-Year Guide to Family Discipleship https://discipleship.org/shop/family-discipleship-blueprint-a-year-by-year-guide-to-family-discipleship/ -- Becoming a Disciple Maker https://discipleship.org/shop/becoming-a-disciple-maker/ -- National Study: The State of Disciple Making Churches: A 10 Minute Visual Guide https://discipleship.org/shop/national-study-the-state-of-disciple-making-churches-a-10-minute-visual-guide/ -- Reaching & Discipling Women: A Guide to Women's Ministry in Your Church https://discipleship.org/shop/reaching-discipling-women-a-guide-to-womens-ministry-in-your-church/ Check out the following Books from Discipleship.org: -- Recreated to Be like God: Making Disciples in the Image of Jesus https://a.co/d/6DDvUrC -- King Jesus and the Beauty of Obedience-Based Discipleship https://a.co/d/7d85z6T -- The Disciple Maker's Handbook: Seven Elements of a Discipleship Lifestyle https://a.co/d/4ZHIbQz Take the FREE Disciple Maker Assessment: https://church-multiplication.com/disciplemaker/ Come to the The National Disciple Making Forum: https://discipleship.org/national-disciple-making-forum/ Listen - Disciple Maker's Podcast: https://discipleship.org/resources/podcast/
Does Christian love require us to treat everyone equally? Or does Scripture teach an order to our responsibilities? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and Alex Kocman examine the historic Christian doctrine of ordo amoris—the order of love. From family and church to nation and neighbor, they explore how Christians should prioritize their time, resources, and responsibilities without abandoning compassion for those in need.What does it mean to love your neighbor?Does charity begin at home?How should Christians think about immigration, missions, public policy, and the common good?This conversation tackles one of the most important ethical questions facing the modern church.Topics discussed:Ordo Amoris (Order of Love)Charity Begins at HomeChristian EthicsFamily, Church, and NationBiblical CompassionChristian Nationalism and Public PolicyThe Good SamaritanReformed Theology
Does Christian love require us to treat everyone equally? Or does Scripture teach an order to our responsibilities? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and Alex Kocman examine the historic Christian doctrine of ordo amoris—the order of love. From family and church to nation and neighbor, they explore how Christians should prioritize their time, resources, and responsibilities without abandoning compassion for those in need.What does it mean to love your neighbor?Does charity begin at home?How should Christians think about immigration, missions, public policy, and the common good?This conversation tackles one of the most important ethical questions facing the modern church.Topics discussed:Ordo Amoris (Order of Love)Charity Begins at HomeChristian EthicsFamily, Church, and NationBiblical CompassionChristian Nationalism and Public PolicyThe Good SamaritanReformed TheologyWatch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Does Christian love require us to treat everyone equally? Or does Scripture teach an order to our responsibilities? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and Alex Kocman examine the historic Christian doctrine of ordo amoris—the order of love. From family and church to nation and neighbor, they explore how Christians should prioritize their time, resources, and responsibilities without abandoning compassion for those in need.What does it mean to love your neighbor?Does charity begin at home?How should Christians think about immigration, missions, public policy, and the common good?This conversation tackles one of the most important ethical questions facing the modern church.Topics discussed:Ordo Amoris (Order of Love)Charity Begins at HomeChristian EthicsFamily, Church, and NationBiblical CompassionChristian Nationalism and Public PolicyThe Good SamaritanReformed Theology
Promises of God // Josh Howard
Josh Howard explains three major reasons why Mormonism differs from historic, orthodox Christianity. Examining the nature of God, the Trinity, and the person of Jesus Christ, this short highlights key doctrinal differences between Mormon theology and the historic Christian faith. While Christians should show love and compassion toward their Mormon neighbors, truth matters—and understanding these differences is essential for faithful gospel witness.
Josh Howard explains three major reasons why Mormonism differs from historic, orthodox Christianity. Examining the nature of God, the Trinity, and the person of Jesus Christ, this short highlights key doctrinal differences between Mormon theology and the historic Christian faith. While Christians should show love and compassion toward their Mormon neighbors, truth matters—and understanding these differences is essential for faithful gospel witness.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Josh Howard explains three major reasons why Mormonism differs from historic, orthodox Christianity. Examining the nature of God, the Trinity, and the person of Jesus Christ, this short highlights key doctrinal differences between Mormon theology and the historic Christian faith. While Christians should show love and compassion toward their Mormon neighbors, truth matters—and understanding these differences is essential for faithful gospel witness.
Will God completely destroy the earth at the end of history? Many Christians picture the end times as God wiping creation away and replacing it with an entirely different world. But is that actually what Scripture teaches? In Episode #10 of Top 10 Most Controversial Verses: Eschatology Edition, Josh Howard examines Revelation 21:1 and one of the biggest questions in biblical prophecy: when Scripture speaks of a “new heaven and new earth,” does it mean annihilation—or renewal? Looking at Revelation 21 alongside 2 Peter 3, Noah’s flood, Isaiah’s prophecies, and the Bible’s larger theme of restoration, this episode explores whether God abandons creation… or redeems it.
Will God completely destroy the earth at the end of history?Many Christians picture the end times as God wiping creation away and replacing it with an entirely different world. But is that actually what Scripture teaches?In Episode #10 of Top 10 Most Controversial Verses: Eschatology Edition, Josh Howard examines Revelation 21:1 and one of the biggest questions in biblical prophecy: when Scripture speaks of a “new heaven and new earth,” does it mean annihilation—or renewal? Looking at Revelation 21 alongside 2 Peter 3, Noah's flood, Isaiah's prophecies, and the Bible's larger theme of restoration, this episode explores whether God abandons creation… or redeems it.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Will God completely destroy the earth at the end of history? Many Christians picture the end times as God wiping creation away and replacing it with an entirely different world. But is that actually what Scripture teaches? In Episode #10 of Top 10 Most Controversial Verses: Eschatology Edition, Josh Howard examines Revelation 21:1 and one of the biggest questions in biblical prophecy: when Scripture speaks of a “new heaven and new earth,” does it mean annihilation—or renewal? Looking at Revelation 21 alongside 2 Peter 3, Noah’s flood, Isaiah’s prophecies, and the Bible’s larger theme of restoration, this episode explores whether God abandons creation… or redeems it.
Should Christians love their own nation more than other nations? Does patriotism conflict with the Great Commission? And what does the Bible teach about our responsibilities to family, church, community, and nation? In this special in-studio episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard is joined by guest host Alex Kocman for a discussion on patriotism, nationalism, missions, and the Christian doctrine of rightly ordered loves . Drawing from Scripture, Augustine, Aquinas, and the historic Christian tradition, they explore whether Christians have unique obligations toward their own people and nation, how patriotism differs from nationalism, and why love for those nearest to us does not negate our responsibility to the nations.Topics include:Christian patriotismOrdered lovesThe Great CommissionNationalism and "America First"Civil magistrates and public lifeFamily, church, and nationBiblical duties and loyaltiesMissions and evangelismCan love of country be a virtue? Or does it inevitably compete with loyalty to Christ? This episode tackles one of the most debated questions facing Christians today.
Should Christians love their own nation more than other nations? Does patriotism conflict with the Great Commission? And what does the Bible teach about our responsibilities to family, church, community, and nation? In this special in-studio episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard is joined by guest host Alex Kocman for a discussion on patriotism, nationalism, missions, and the Christian doctrine of rightly ordered loves . Drawing from Scripture, Augustine, Aquinas, and the historic Christian tradition, they explore whether Christians have unique obligations toward their own people and nation, how patriotism differs from nationalism, and why love for those nearest to us does not negate our responsibility to the nations.Topics include:Christian patriotismOrdered lovesThe Great CommissionNationalism and "America First"Civil magistrates and public lifeFamily, church, and nationBiblical duties and loyaltiesMissions and evangelismCan love of country be a virtue? Or does it inevitably compete with loyalty to Christ? This episode tackles one of the most debated questions facing Christians today.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Should Christians love their own nation more than other nations? Does patriotism conflict with the Great Commission? And what does the Bible teach about our responsibilities to family, church, community, and nation? In this special in-studio episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard is joined by guest host Alex Kocman for a discussion on patriotism, nationalism, missions, and the Christian doctrine of rightly ordered loves . Drawing from Scripture, Augustine, Aquinas, and the historic Christian tradition, they explore whether Christians have unique obligations toward their own people and nation, how patriotism differs from nationalism, and why love for those nearest to us does not negate our responsibility to the nations.Topics include:Christian patriotismOrdered lovesThe Great CommissionNationalism and "America First"Civil magistrates and public lifeFamily, church, and nationBiblical duties and loyaltiesMissions and evangelismCan love of country be a virtue? Or does it inevitably compete with loyalty to Christ? This episode tackles one of the most debated questions facing Christians today.
Why does eschatology matter? Is it merely speculation about the future, or does it shape how Christians live, work, evangelize, and engage the world today? In this special episode of The World View, EM co-founder Josh Howard joins Alex Kocman in studio to discuss how our view of the future influences the mission of the church. Together they explore Christ's present reign, the Great Commission, cultural engagement, civil responsibility, and whether Christians should expect victory or retreat. Far from being an abstract theological debate, eschatology affects how believers think about discipleship, nation-building, evangelism, and the advancement of Christ's Kingdom in history. If the church is called to disciple the nations, then our understanding of the future matters more than many realize.
Why does eschatology matter? Is it merely speculation about the future, or does it shape how Christians live, work, evangelize, and engage the world today? In this special episode of The World View, EM co-founder Josh Howard joins Alex Kocman in studio to discuss how our view of the future influences the mission of the church. Together they explore Christ's present reign, the Great Commission, cultural engagement, civil responsibility, and whether Christians should expect victory or retreat. Far from being an abstract theological debate, eschatology affects how believers think about discipleship, nation-building, evangelism, and the advancement of Christ's Kingdom in history.If the church is called to disciple the nations, then our understanding of the future matters more than many realize.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Why does eschatology matter? Is it merely speculation about the future, or does it shape how Christians live, work, evangelize, and engage the world today? In this special episode of The World View, EM co-founder Josh Howard joins Alex Kocman in studio to discuss how our view of the future influences the mission of the church. Together they explore Christ's present reign, the Great Commission, cultural engagement, civil responsibility, and whether Christians should expect victory or retreat. Far from being an abstract theological debate, eschatology affects how believers think about discipleship, nation-building, evangelism, and the advancement of Christ's Kingdom in history. If the church is called to disciple the nations, then our understanding of the future matters more than many realize.
Can an entire nation repent—or is repentance only for individuals? In this episode of The Magistrate, James Baird and Josh Howard examine one of the most overlooked questions in Christian political theology: Does God hold nations accountable for their actions? Drawing from Scripture, church history, and the Reformed tradition, they explore how God dealt with nations such as Nineveh, Babylon, Egypt, and Israel, and whether modern nations still bear moral responsibility before Him. Are nations capable of righteousness, rebellion, blessing, judgment, and repentance? What does this mean for Christians living in the modern world? Topics include: • National repentance • Corporate guilt and responsibility • Biblical political theology • The Great Commission and the nations • Reformed views of church and state • God's judgment of nations • Christian citizenship and civil government Subscribe for weekly conversations on theology, church history, culture, and the relationship between Christ's Kingdom and the nations.
Can an entire nation repent—or is repentance only for individuals?In this episode of The Magistrate, James Baird and Josh Howard examine one of the most overlooked questions in Christian political theology: Does God hold nations accountable for their actions? Drawing from Scripture, church history, and the Reformed tradition, they explore how God dealt with nations such as Nineveh, Babylon, Egypt, and Israel, and whether modern nations still bear moral responsibility before Him.Are nations capable of righteousness, rebellion, blessing, judgment, and repentance? What does this mean for Christians living in the modern world?Topics include:• National repentance • Corporate guilt and responsibility• Biblical political theology• The Great Commission and the nations• Reformed views of church and state• God's judgment of nations• Christian citizenship and civil governmentSubscribe for weekly conversations on theology, church history, culture, and the relationship between Christ's Kingdom and the nations.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Can an entire nation repent—or is repentance only for individuals? In this episode of The Magistrate, James Baird and Josh Howard examine one of the most overlooked questions in Christian political theology: Does God hold nations accountable for their actions? Drawing from Scripture, church history, and the Reformed tradition, they explore how God dealt with nations such as Nineveh, Babylon, Egypt, and Israel, and whether modern nations still bear moral responsibility before Him. Are nations capable of righteousness, rebellion, blessing, judgment, and repentance? What does this mean for Christians living in the modern world? Topics include: • National repentance • Corporate guilt and responsibility • Biblical political theology • The Great Commission and the nations • Reformed views of church and state • God's judgment of nations • Christian citizenship and civil government Subscribe for weekly conversations on theology, church history, culture, and the relationship between Christ's Kingdom and the nations.
Is Christian nationalism inherently violent? Does Christendom inevitably lead to coercion, persecution, and the abuse of power? Or have modern secular states simply hidden their own forms of coercion behind the language of neutrality and liberty? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird respond to Gordon-Conwell Seminary president Dr. Scott Sunquist’s article “Nation or Kingdom” and examine some of the biggest assumptions surrounding Christian nationalism, pluralism, church and state, religious liberty, and political theology. Can governments ever be morally neutral? Is every legal system rooted in a religious vision of reality? What are the biblical limits of civil authority? And what does Christ’s kingship over the nations actually require? This conversation explores: Christian nationalism and coercion The history of Christendom Religious liberty and pluralism Protestant political theology Church and state relations The role of the civil magistrate Whether secularism is truly neutral Christ’s authority over nations If you’re tired of shallow debates and talking points surrounding Christian nationalism, this episode offers a deeper historical and theological framework for understanding the issue.
Is Christian nationalism inherently violent?Does Christendom inevitably lead to coercion, persecution, and the abuse of power? Or have modern secular states simply hidden their own forms of coercion behind the language of neutrality and liberty? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird respond to Gordon-Conwell Seminary president Dr. Scott Sunquist's article “Nation or Kingdom” and examine some of the biggest assumptions surrounding Christian nationalism, pluralism, church and state, religious liberty, and political theology.Can governments ever be morally neutral?Is every legal system rooted in a religious vision of reality?What are the biblical limits of civil authority?And what does Christ's kingship over the nations actually require?This conversation explores:- Christian nationalism and coercion - The history of Christendom - Religious liberty and pluralism - Protestant political theology - Church and state relations - The role of the civil magistrate - Whether secularism is truly neutral - Christ's authority over nations If you're tired of shallow debates and talking points surrounding Christian nationalism, this episode offers a deeper historical and theological framework for understanding the issue.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Is Christian nationalism inherently violent? Does Christendom inevitably lead to coercion, persecution, and the abuse of power? Or have modern secular states simply hidden their own forms of coercion behind the language of neutrality and liberty? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird respond to Gordon-Conwell Seminary president Dr. Scott Sunquist’s article “Nation or Kingdom” and examine some of the biggest assumptions surrounding Christian nationalism, pluralism, church and state, religious liberty, and political theology. Can governments ever be morally neutral? Is every legal system rooted in a religious vision of reality? What are the biblical limits of civil authority? And what does Christ’s kingship over the nations actually require? This conversation explores: Christian nationalism and coercion The history of Christendom Religious liberty and pluralism Protestant political theology Church and state relations The role of the civil magistrate Whether secularism is truly neutral Christ’s authority over nations If you’re tired of shallow debates and talking points surrounding Christian nationalism, this episode offers a deeper historical and theological framework for understanding the issue.
Guest speaker Josh Howard delivers a powerful message on wholehearted surrender, revival, and what it truly means to follow Jesus without compromise. In this sermon at Elevate City Church, Josh challenges believers to move beyond lukewarm Christianity and become people who are “known in heaven and feared in hell.” Through Acts 19, the story of the Apostle Paul, and the call to repentance in Acts 3, this message explores disciple-making, spiritual authority, consecration, revival, and living fully surrendered to Jesus. Josh also shares encouraging updates about global revival movements, thousands coming to Christ worldwide, and why Elevate City was recognized as one of the leading disciple-making churches in North America. If you've been searching for deeper intimacy with God, freedom from idols, renewal through the Holy Spirit, or a fresh passion for Jesus, this sermon will challenge and encourage you to give God your whole heart.
What relationship should exist between the church and the civil magistrate? Should the state remain “neutral” toward religion — or does Scripture teach that rulers have real duties concerning the true faith? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird explore the historic Protestant understanding of church and state, including the forgotten distinction between in sacra and circa sacra — categories that shaped Christian political theology for centuries. Can governments acknowledge Christ without controlling the church? What authority belongs uniquely to the church? And why have modern Christians largely abandoned the historic Reformed view of the civil magistrate? This episode examines: Church vs. state authority Christian nationalism and religious neutrality The role of civil rulers in Scripture Erastianism vs. radical separationism Protestant political theology The legacy of the Reformation Whether governments have duties toward Christianity If you’ve ever wondered whether a “neutral” state is actually possible, this discussion is essential.
What relationship should exist between the church and the civil magistrate?Should the state remain “neutral” toward religion — or does Scripture teach that rulers have real duties concerning the true faith?In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird explore the historic Protestant understanding of church and state, including the forgotten distinction between in sacra and circa sacra — categories that shaped Christian political theology for centuries.- Can governments acknowledge Christ without controlling the church? - What authority belongs uniquely to the church? - And why have modern Christians largely abandoned the historic Reformed view of the civil magistrate? This episode examines:- Church vs. state authority - Christian nationalism and religious neutrality - The role of civil rulers in Scripture- Erastianism vs. radical separationism - Protestant political theology - The legacy of the Reformation - Whether governments have duties toward Christianity If you've ever wondered whether a “neutral” state is actually possible, this discussion is essential.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
What relationship should exist between the church and the civil magistrate? Should the state remain “neutral” toward religion — or does Scripture teach that rulers have real duties concerning the true faith? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird explore the historic Protestant understanding of church and state, including the forgotten distinction between in sacra and circa sacra — categories that shaped Christian political theology for centuries. Can governments acknowledge Christ without controlling the church? What authority belongs uniquely to the church? And why have modern Christians largely abandoned the historic Reformed view of the civil magistrate? This episode examines: Church vs. state authority Christian nationalism and religious neutrality The role of civil rulers in Scripture Erastianism vs. radical separationism Protestant political theology The legacy of the Reformation Whether governments have duties toward Christianity If you’ve ever wondered whether a “neutral” state is actually possible, this discussion is essential.
What does the sun have to do with leadership? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird uncover a biblical pattern most people overlook: God didn’t just give commands about authority—He built it into creation itself. From Genesis to the Psalms, the sun is portrayed as a ruler of the day, and that imagery reveals how authority is meant to function. This episode explores how true leadership is designed to give life, establish order, and operate within God-given limits—not dominate or distort. If you want a clearer, biblical vision for authority in the home, church, and civil sphere, this framework changes how you see it. Topics include: - Why the sun is called a “ruler” in Scripture - The purpose and limits of authority - How leadership reflects God’s design in creation - What happens when authority is distorted Subscribe for more episodes from The Magistrate and the EM Network.
What does the sun have to do with leadership?n this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird uncover a biblical pattern most people overlook: God didn't just give commands about authority—He built it into creation itself. From Genesis to the Psalms, the sun is portrayed as a ruler of the day, and that imagery reveals how authority is meant to function. This episode explores how true leadership is designed to give life, establish order, and operate within God-given limits—not dominate or distort. If you want a clearer, biblical vision for authority in the home, church, and civil sphere, this framework changes how you see it.Topics include:Why the sun is called a “ruler” in Scripture The purpose and limits of authorityHow leadership reflects God's design in creationWhat happens when authority is distortedSubscribe for more episodes from The Magistrate and the EM Network.Watch all of our videos and subscribe to our channel for the latest content >HereHere
Josh Howard became an unlikely missionary to India after his family fell apart. But today, Josh has had a front-row seat watching God multiply disciples in unprecedented ways. Show notes @ https://compelledpodcast.com/episodes/josh-howard Josh's links: https://theignitenetwork.org/ https://discipleship.org/ Josh's newest book ++++++++++++ Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming Christians around the world. These Christian testimonies are raw, true, and powerful. Be encouraged and let your faith be strengthened! Want to help make new episodes? Either make a one-time gift, or become a Monthly Partner at: https://compelledpodcast.com/donate Perks of being a Monthly Partner include: EARLY ACCESS to each new Compelled episode 1 week early! FULL LIBRARY of our unedited, behind-the-scenes interviews with each guest... over 100+ hours of additional stories and takeaways! Become a Monthly Partner by selecting the "Monthly" option during check-out. Show notes, emails, and more at: https://compelledpodcast.com Buy the Compelled book of testimonies, endorsed by Lee Strobel, Marvin Olasky, and more: https://compelledpodcast.com/book Compelled is a member of the Proclaim Podcast Network: https://proclaim.fm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Why do evangelicals struggle when they gain political power?This conversation breaks down the tension between Christian ethics and modern politics, focusing on how ideas like moral purity, leadership, and authority translate (or fail to translate) from the church into government.The discussion explores Christian nationalism, the historical Protestant influence on America, and how institutions like universities shape cultural values.It also examines why applying church-based standards (like purity and holiness) to political leadership can create ineffective governance and poor decision-making.A major theme is the difference between biblical holiness vs. an obsession with purity, and how that distinction impacts leadership, culture, and policy. James Baird and Josh Howard also address controversial topics like moral hierarchy, sexual ethics, and cultural decline, offering a theological and sociological perspective on modern political engagement.If you’re interested in religion and politics, evangelicalism, cultural influence, or political theology, this conversation provides a deep and thought-provoking analysis.
Can Christianity be restored to the center of American life? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird engage two competing narratives shaping the current conversation around religion in America—decline and revival. Interacting with recent articles from American Reformer and The New York Times, they examine whether the so-called “waning” of Christianity tells the full story, or whether deeper currents suggest something else entirely. Is America moving beyond Christianity… or is a return still possible? More importantly—what would it actually mean for Christianity to be “central” again? Cultural influence? Political establishment? Or something deeper? This conversation pushes beyond simplistic binaries and asks what a historically Protestant, theologically grounded vision for public life might look like in the present moment. https://americanreformer.org/2026/03/...
Western man is told he faces a binary choice: ➡️ Religious pluralism ➡️ Establishmentarianism But what if that’s a false dilemma? In this episode of The Magistrate, Josh Howard and James Baird respond to Andrew T. Walker’s recent comments and the broader debate surrounding religion and the state. Drawing from historic Reformed and Presbyterian political theology, they argue that the modern conversation has lost an entire category — one that shaped early America and Protestant thought for centuries. This isn’t about choosing between two extremes. It’s about recovering a forgotten framework.
Josh Howard sits down with Pastor David Schrock (Christ Over All) to discuss the current state of the Southern Baptist Convention. From declining cooperative giving to growing distrust between local churches and denominational leadership, this conversation tackles the real concerns many are feeling but few are addressing directly. They also examine whether key SBC institutions—like seminaries—are experiencing mission drift, and what that could mean for the future of the convention. If you care about the health, accountability, and direction of the SBC, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.