Podcasts about Lofton

Ted Cruz says supporting Israel is a biblical obligation — but what does that really mean? In this episode, we go beyond the talking points and ask the uncomfortable questions: What are the implications of basing U.S. foreign policy on biblical prophecy? How does this theological stance shape Cruz's unwavering support for Israel? And what […]

Pope Leo XIV has just made a surprising new appointment that’s turning heads across the Catholic world—and beyond. In this episode, we break down who was appointed, why it’s so controversial (or groundbreaking), and what this could mean for the future direction of the Vatican. Is this a sign of reform, a political move, or […]

In a recent appearance on Tucker Carlson's show, Senator Ted Cruz quoted Genesis 12:3 — “I will bless those who bless you, and curse those who curse you” — as justification for unwavering U.S. support for the modern state of Israel. But is that what the Bible actually teaches? In this video, we break down […]

Pride-themed liturgies are being held in Catholic parishes across the country — often with full knowledge of the local bishops. But while the faithful raise concerns, most bishops remain silent. Why? Is it fear of backlash, a strategy of appeasement, or something deeper? In this episode, we examine the rise of so-called “Pride Masses” in […]

Israeli forces opened fire near an aid distribution site in Gaza, killing at least 51 Palestinians who were reportedly waiting in line for flour and other basic supplies. In this episode, we cover the reports of eyewitnesses who were on the ground when the tragedy unfolded.

In a major development, Israeli authorities have shut down access to the Temple Mount for worshippers, sparking concerns and speculation across the region and beyond. In this video, we break down what led to the closure, and what this could mean for the ongoing tensions in Israel.

Can someone outside the Orthodox Church be saved? It’s a question many ask — and the answer might surprise you. In this episode, we explore what Eastern Orthodoxy actually teaches about salvation beyond its visible boundaries. Drawing from the Church Fathers, councils, and contemporary Orthodox theologians, we dive into the nuanced and often misunderstood doctrine […]

Cardinal Raymond Burke has raised alarm over recent restrictions on the Traditional Latin Mass, claiming they amount to a form of persecution by the very heart of the Church—the papacy itself. What does this mean theologically? In this video, I explore the deep implications of Cardinal Burke's statement. If the papacy can be perceived as […]

The world is watching as a full-scale conflict erupts in the Middle East. In this episode, we break down how the war between Israel and Iran began, the key events leading up to Israel's first strike, and what's happening on the ground right now. From missile launches to international reactions, we cover the timeline, political […]

Join us as we explore the recent rumors, reports, and theological implications surrounding Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández and his role as head of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. Has there been a reconfirmation? Is the Vatican doubling down on his doctrinal direction? And what would it mean if this move came from […]

In this episode, we dive deep into the growing conversation around the Catholic Charismatic Renewal and the Vatican’s response under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV. With millions of Catholics around the world embracing charismatic worship, many are asking: Will the Holy Father officially recognize and support this dynamic movement?

Psalm 82 presents a striking scene: God presiding over a council of other divine beings. But what does this really mean? In this episode, we explore the ancient Near Eastern backdrop of this mysterious psalm—drawing from Canaanite and Ugaritic texts that may shed new light on its origins.

A German Catholic bishop has just resigned in a stunning move, citing deep disillusionment with the Synodal Way and the ongoing chaos within the German Church. After years of scandals, unresolved conflicts, and what he calls spiritual exhaustion, he says he can no longer stay silent or pretend the Church is on the right path. […]

In this episode, I examine a critical issue at the heart of Protestant theology: the preservation of Scripture. Drawing on the scholarship of Dr. Daniel Wallace and Dr. Emanuel Tov—two of the most respected textual critics—I explore whether the Old Testament has truly been preserved in the way Sola Scriptura requires. Both Wallace and Tov […]

This week on Black & Published, Nikesha speaks with W.J. Lofton, author of the poetry collection, boy, maybe. The collection explores William's difficult and at times traumatic childhood, how he survived, and how he's living now as young, Black queer man in America. In our conversation, Williams explains the reason he says that even though he crosses many identity intersections it's not his life that is fractured. Plus, how writing boy, maybe was a gentle escape, despite the subject matter, when he was supposed to be writing an entirely different book. And, how he feels about being on the front lines facing attacks from the current administration. Mahogany Books Mentioned in this episode:Rate & ReviewThanks for listening, family! Please do us a solid and take a quick moment to rate and/or leave a review for this podcast. It will go a long way to making sure content featuring our stories and perspectives are seen on this platform

The Dead Sea Scrolls are often mentioned in passing—but rarely explained. In this episode, we uncover what you were never told about these ancient manuscripts and why they matter more than you think.

The Vatican has quietly removed the artwork of Fr. Marko Rupnik from its official website — a move many see as long overdue. But what they haven't done is even more shocking. In this episode, we dive into the full story: the abuse allegations, the Vatican's selective response, and what this reveals about the Church's […]

The Old Testament is at the heart of the Christian faith — but how close is your Bible to what was originally written? In this episode, we dive deep into the complex history of the Old Testament text. We explore the major manuscript traditions — the Masoretic Text, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and the Septuagint […]

June 8th, 2025 | The Love of God | 1 John 1:5-2:6The love of God doesn't just save—it transforms. In Week 2 of our summer series through 1 John, Pastor Ben Lofton unpacks how God's love is more than comfort for the broken—it's the compelling force that drives a life of obedience, truth, and real spiritual freedom.Looking at 1 John 1:5–2:6, this message calls us to step out of the shadows of self-deception and into the light of authentic relationship with Jesus. When we walk in the light, we don't just experience forgiveness—we gain true fellowship with others and a deeper dependence on God. Through confession, obedience, and honest community, we reflect a life that's been radically changed by divine love.This isn't about perfection—it's about abiding. Because the more we experience God's perfect love, the more we are compelled to live lives that show we truly belong to Him.Key Themes:God's love compels honesty, not hidingWalking in the light means embracing both truth and transformationConfession and community go hand in handJesus is both our Advocate and our AtonementTrue obedience flows from deep trust in God's loveWhether you're struggling with sin, stuck in spiritual performance, or simply longing for a deeper relationship with God, this message reminds us: The love of God is calling—and it demands a response.Do you know JESUS? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/do-you-know-jesus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need PRAYER? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/pray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support through GIVING: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbbctx.org/giving⁠

Elon vs Trump Just Got Nasty—Epstein Name Dropped!

A petition has been launched calling on Pope Leo XIV to remove Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki, a prominent figure in the German Catholic Church. In this episode, I break down the reasons behind this growing demand—from his handling of abuse cases to broader concerns about leadership and accountability. But this issue goes far beyond one […]

WTHR's Chuck Lofton signs off after an incredible 40 years, we get to speak with the local legend himself about some fond memories, impact he's had on our lives, and what's next for him!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Origins of Yahweh Worship: History, Archaeology & Theology w/ Dr. Justin Sledge

In this episode, I take a deep dive into Fr. James Martin’s recent article advocating that Catholics should celebrate Pride Month. Join me as I respectfully examine his claims, highlight key theological concerns, and discuss what authentic compassion and truth look like when it comes to this complex issue. Whether you agree or disagree, this […]

What if I told you there was a Jewish temple in Egypt—outside of Jerusalem—dedicated to Yahweh, where female priests served, other gods were worshipped alongside Him, and some believe the Ark of the Covenant may have once rested there? In this episode, we explore the remarkable temple at Elephantine Island, a 7th-century BCE site that […]

BREAKING: N.T. Wright Defends Abortion for Limited Cases | My Critique

Pope Leo XIV just said that marriage is NOT an ideal, but Pope Francis often said marriage an ideal. Did the two popes contradict each other? Michael Lofton examines both claims and considers the question after explaining how the magisterium functions.

Could this be one of the most important archaeological discoveries in biblical history? Join us as we explore the fascinating ruins of Tel Arad, where experts believe they've uncovered a Judahite temple dedicated to Yahweh—a rare and powerful glimpse into ancient Israelite worship practices! In this episode, we'll break down: The historical and biblical significance […]

Fake Pope? Franciscan Alleges Illegitimate Election of Leo XIV | My Reaction

A surprising new appointment to the Pontifical Academy for Life has stirred debate across the Catholic world. Msgr. Renzo Pegoraro, the new rector, is being described by critics as someone open to reinterpreting the Church's teaching on contraception and other key life issues. Is this a deepening of doctrine—or a dangerous departure? Join us as […]

Thank you, Chuck, for an amazing 40 years on WTHR!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Orthodox Priest Says Pope Has “Anti-Christ Aura” – Not the Head of the Church!

In this important episode, the Bishop of Charlotte addresses the recent restrictions on the Traditional Latin Mass within the diocese and offers a candid explanation of the decisions behind them. Drawing on Church teaching, Vatican guidance, and pastoral concerns, the bishop outlines how these changes are being implemented and why they matter. He also responds […]

Pope Leo XIV in Trouble with Critics Again | The Father’s House Controversy

Latin Masses in Charlotte RESTRICTED by Local Bishop | The Rundown

In a stunning and highly debated move, Pope Leo XIV has appointed a new bishop to the Diocese of St. Gallen, Switzerland—a man who has openly expressed support for reforming the Church's traditional positions on homosexuality, gay marriage, contraception, and even the ordination of women. This decision is raising serious questions among Catholics around the […]

Christianity and the Qur’an: The Rise of Islam in Christian Arabia w/ Dr. Gabriel Reynolds

Did the Pope Really Say Mary Is God? | Response to Justin Peters

Did Jay Dyer Just Refute Catholics on Papal Infallibility?

In a historic and unexpected audience at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV breaks his silence on one of the most sensitive topics in modern religion: his views on Jews, Muslims, and non-Christians. In this powerful speech, the Pope addresses interfaith relations and the future of dialogue between the Catholic Church and other faith traditions. His […]

In this livestream, we’re diving into a powerful and controversial 2023 video from Pope Leo XIV, where he directly calls out Catholic internet personalities who have been publicly critical of Pope Francis, accused him of spreading false teachings, and harshly opposed the Synod on Synodality. This video from Pope Leo XIV is sending shockwaves through […]

May 18th, 2025 | Does Grace Offend You? | Jonah 4In the final message of our series through the book of Jonah, Pastor Ben Lofton takes us deep into Jonah 4—a chapter that doesn't offer a neat resolution but instead holds up a mirror to our hearts. This isn't just about Nineveh's repentance or Jonah's frustration; it's about how we respond to the grace of God—especially when it's extended to people we think don't deserve it.This message challenges us to ask: Are we gatekeepers of God's grace, or humble participants in sharing it with a broken world? Jonah was angry that God spared Nineveh. Why? Because he knew God would show mercy—and he didn't think they deserved it. The truth is, none of us do.Pastor Ben unpacks three key differences between an arbiter and a distributor of grace, exposing how our desire for fairness can actually stand in the way of God's mission. We'll wrestle with tough questions, confront our comfort zones, and ultimately be reminded of the scandalous beauty of God's mercy for everyone. Reflective Questions:Am I offended by God's grace?Is my heart aligned with the gracious and merciful heart of God?Who in my life is God calling me to be a distributor of grace to?Whether you're skeptical, self-aware, or somewhere in between, this message will challenge you to examine how you view grace—and what you do with it.Do you know JESUS? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/do-you-know-jesus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need PRAYER? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbgilmer.org/pray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support through GIVING: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbbctx.org/giving⁠

In this episode, we take a closer look at the canonical and oversight status of several influential voices within contemporary Orthodox and Anglican communities: Fr. Peter Heers, Sr. Vassa Larin, Fr. Calvin Robinson, and the YouTuber and commentator Jay Dyer.

In a powerful and deeply traditional message, Pope Leo XIV reaffirms the Church's stance on the foundational role of marriage in society. Speaking from the Vatican, the Holy Father emphasizes that the stable union between a man and a woman is not just a religious ideal but a cornerstone of human civilization. This address touches […]

The Prosperity Gospel, Immigration and the Woke Agenda w/ Alex Kocman

In this episode, I break down Pope Leo XIV's latest message directed at young people around the world. What is he really saying? What are the deeper implications for faith, culture, and the future of the Church? Whether you're Catholic, curious, or just following world events, this is a conversation worth having.

In this live show, I'll walk you through: What Pope Leo XIV actually said Why this audience matters right now The theological, ecclesial, and ecumenical implications My personal reaction and commentary Q&A and discussion with YOU, the live chat Whether you’re Eastern Catholic, Latin Rite, Orthodox, or just curious about this historic moment in Church […]

Can someone be saved without being a member of the Catholic Church? In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most misunderstood teachings of the Church: “Extra Ecclesiam nulla salus” — “Outside the Church there is no salvation.” What does the Catholic Church actually teach about this doctrine? Has the understanding changed over […]

Vatican Sends Message to Buddhists – But No Call to Conversion? In this episode, I break down a brand-new document issued by the Vatican under the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue during the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV. Directed to Buddhists, the document emphasizes common spiritual values and shared moral concerns—but notably stops short of calling […]

In this video, I react to and analyze Pope Leo XIV's inaugural address to the Catholic faithful around the world. From the symbolism in his words to the direction he may be signaling for the future of the Church, I break down key themes, theological implications, and what his message might mean for Catholics and […]