Podcasts about Lofton

Jerusalem has frozen all bank accounts of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate over an ongoing property tax dispute — leaving clergy, teachers, and staff without pay. The city claims the Church owes millions in back taxes for properties not used as houses of worship, while the Patriarchate says this move breaks centuries of precedent and ongoing […]

Reporters are claiming that for the first time in history, Pope Leo will meet with a pro-LGBTQ+ Catholic group at the Vatican. What does this mean for the Church, the LGBTQ+ community, and the future of Catholic dialogue? In this episode, we break down the significance of this historic meeting, what it could signal about […]

An incident at the Basilica of Loreto, where the Holy House of Mary is enshrined, is drawing widespread attention. Footage shows Catholic bishops concelebrating Mass alongside a woman dressed in a cassock and clerical collar, possibly a Protestant “priestess.”

A priest who entered a same-sex civil union was recently reinstated to active ministry—promoted to parish leadership, school oversight, and even the diocesan marriage tribunal. All this, despite a public record of LGBT advocacy and no clear public repentance. In this video, I explore the deeper issue: What happened to the biblical standards for ministry? […]

Leaked Benedict XVI Letter Ends the Resignation Debate A previously unpublished letter from Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI — dated August 21, 2014 — has just been made public, and it delivers a decisive blow to one of the most persistent Catholic conspiracy theories of the last decade. For years, some claimed that Benedict resigned only […]

A priest who entered a same-sex civil union was recently reinstated to active ministry—promoted to parish leadership, school oversight, and even the diocesan marriage tribunal. All this, despite a public record of LGBT advocacy and no clear public repentance. In this video, I explore the deeper issue: What happened to the biblical standards for ministry? […]

In this episode, we explore the growing movement in Israel to restore the Temple on the Temple Mount—and what it means for Jews, Christians, and the world. From the prophecies of Ezekiel and Revelation to recent political headlines involving Itamar Ben Gvir and the Temple Institute, this video breaks down the theological, prophetic, and geopolitical […]

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel is moving forward with the full occupation of Gaza. Former President Donald Trump refuses to oppose it, and some far-right Israeli politicians are even quoting Hitler in defense of wiping Gaza off the map. In the U.S., Christian Zionists like Speaker Mike Johnson are citing the Bible—especially Genesis […]

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Catholic media stands at a crossroads as Vatican strategies collide with the reality of online Catholic content creation. This episode pulls back the curtain on Michael Lofton's recent Vatican visit for a digital media influencer conference, revealing fascinating tensions between traditional Catholic voices and the Vatican's apparent desire to control Catholic messaging online.We examine compelling footage of Catholic influencers wandering the Vatican, making connections, and positioning themselves as bridges between Rome and the online faithful. The speculation around Pope Leo potentially addressing social media in an upcoming encyclical raises profound questions: Will we soon see Vatican-approved "verified" Catholic content creators? What happens to traditional Catholic voices in such a system? The potential for a further divided Catholic media landscape looms large as institutional authority meets grassroots Catholic content.The conversation shifts to a broader examination of Catholic influencer culture, particularly among female personalities whose recent online behavior demonstrates how far "conservative" influencers often stray from authentic Catholic values. This leads to a captivating exploration of Christianity's civilizing influence throughout history - how the Gospel eliminated human sacrifice, established orphanages, protected the vulnerable, and elevated women's dignity in ways modern feminism fails to acknowledge.Throughout, we maintain our trademark blend of serious theological reflection and lighthearted banter, providing insights you simply won't find in mainstream Catholic media. Whether you're concerned about the direction of Catholic social media, curious about Vatican communications strategy, or interested in Christianity's historical impact on civilization, this episode delivers thought-provoking perspective that challenges conventional narratives.Ready for more unfiltered Catholic commentary? Join us on Locals for extended discussions on AI dangers, Dave Ramsey's questionable marriage advice, and other topics too spicy for YouTube.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Did Pope Leo XIV just deny papal supremacy? Here’s what he said—and what it could mean for the Church.

Archbishop Edward Weisenburger of Detroit has dismissed two highly respected professors from Sacred Heart Major Seminary. The professors are Dr. Eduardo Echeverria and Dr. Ralph Martin. No official explanation has been given for their sudden termination. In this episode, we break down what we know and explore the possible implications. Stay tuned for updates as […]

Israeli Minister Claims Trump Supported Gaza “Cleansing”; U.S. Denies In a shocking statement, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich claimed that former President Donald Trump gave a “green light” to clear Gaza of Palestinians. The White House has pushed back, calling the claim a “conspiracy theory.” In this episode, we break down Smotrich's explosive remarks, examine […]

Church Scandals, the Pope, and Israel: A Priest Speaks Out w/ Fr. John Brown In this episode, I sit down with a Catholic priest to ask some of the most pressing and controversial questions facing the Church today. We cover everything from Pope Francis’ call for a ceasefire in the Holy Land, to attacks on […]

In this episode, I cover the alarming statements made by top Church leaders in the Holy Land regarding escalating settler violence against the only entirely Christian Palestinian village left in the occupied West Bank—Taybeh. Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III and Latin Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa visited the village in a rare show of solidarity, denouncing recent […]

My Honest Thoughts on the Alleged Strickland–Westen Audio Leak

Catholic Bishop Celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride Mass — What We Know So Far

An Orthodox priest speaks out against the rise of online “Orthobros”—a growing subculture marked by zeal without nuance, tribalism, and performative piety. In this episode, we take a close look at his critique: what exactly is he calling out, why does it matter, and how should Orthodox Christians (and others) respond? Whether you’re Orthodox, Catholic, […]

Disturbing Moment: Zionist Defends Outrageous Position on Palestinians

Israel Destroys Church of the Holy Family in Gaza

In early 2009, two mother-daughter pairs were murdered just weeks apart in Prince George's County, Maryland. Karen and Karissa Lofton were found shot inside their home. Weeks later, Delores and Ebony Dewitt were discovered in a burning car. At first, the cases appeared unrelated — until a shocking lead revealed a connection to an unlikely suspect, exposing a chilling pattern of violence. SUPPORT OUR SPONSOR Earnin Download the Earnin App in the App Store Or Google Play Nutrafol Visit www.Nutrafol.com/girlgone ZocDoc Visit www.ZocDoc.com/girlgone Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for a fascinating deep-dive into the Dead Sea Scrolls with scholar Dr. Kipp Davis. We explore his personal work on the scrolls and uncover how their discovery has shaped modern biblical scholarship. We'll walk through the story of how the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, what they say—and what they don't say. Do […]

In this episode, I dive into a common response I hear when raising concerns about problematic Vatican or papal documents: “But it's not magisterial.” For many, that phrase is meant to shut down the conversation—as if non-magisterial means non-consequential. But over time, I've come to see why that response no longer satisfies, and why it […]

In this video, I show that Pope John Paul II taught that non-Christians—including Muslims—can be saved through their own religions, even without knowing Jesus. This is no longer something that can be ignored—it deserves honest and open discussion.

July 13th, 2025 | The Love of God | 1 John 3:1-10In Week 6 of our summer series The Love of God: His Heart, Our Hope, Pastor Ben Lofton unpacks the powerful and practical truth found in 1 John 3:1–10—God's love isn't just something He shows, it's something that transforms.Through rich biblical teaching and real-life illustrations, Pastor Ben reminds us of three foundational truths about God's love:God's Love Defines Our Identity — We are not just improved; we are adopted. No longer spiritual orphans, we are made children of God, not by merit, but by mercy.God's Love Changes Our Trajectory — Salvation is not the finish line. It's the starting point of a new life, where we are being shaped into the image of Christ day by day.God's Love Transforms Our Lives — A life marked by God's love cannot remain the same. We don't practice sin; we practice righteousness—not to earn love, but because we have it.“The Gospel doesn't just forgive sin—it exists to destroy it.”This message is a direct, convicting call to self-examination and surrender. If you belong to the family of God, your life will begin to reflect the family resemblance. The love of God doesn't just add something to your life—it changes everything.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

Why Are Traditionalists Upset with Pope Leo XIV? In today's episode, we cover several major developments shaking the Catholic world. John-Henry Westen is no longer with LifeSite News—his co-founder reveals what led to his departure. Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV is making waves with a series of controversial episcopal appointments that have traditionalists sounding the alarm. […]

Did Christians believe in the Trinity before the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD? Was the doctrine developed over time—or was it already present in the early Church? In this episode, Dr. Jim Papandrea, expert in early Christianity and historical theology, joins me to explore how the Trinity was understood before and after Nicaea. We […]

July 6th, 2025 | The Love of God | 1 John 2:18-29 ; 4:1-6In Week 5 of our summer series through 1 John, Pastor Ben Lofton walks us through a powerful and sobering reminder: if the foundation of our faith isn't firmly rooted in the truth of the Gospel, everything else is at risk. Drawing from 1 John 2 and 4, we explore how John calls the early church—and us—to stay anchored in Christ amidst a world full of deception, spiritual confusion, and cultural compromise.Pastor Ben highlights the Apostle John's straightforward teaching and deep love for the church, showing us how the truth that Jesus is both fully God and fully man isn't just doctrine—it's our stability, our protection, and our eternal security.In a world that redefines truth and distorts the Gospel, John's words cut through the noise: Abide in Him.Key Themes:– How the Gospel stabilizes our faith– Recognizing deception and false teaching– The role of the Holy Spirit in discernment– Why we must test every spirit– Living with confidence in Christ's return“Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you.” (1 John 2:24)Do you know JESUS?: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nblongview.org/do-you-know-jesus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Need PRAYER?: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nblongview.org/pray⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SUPPORT through giving: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.nbbctx.org/giving⁠⁠

Join Michael Lofton and Luis Dizon as they sit down with renowned New Testament scholar Dr. Craig Keener to discuss the reliability of the New Testament. In this in-depth interview, Dr. Keener addresses key questions about the historical trustworthiness of the Gospel accounts, the role of eyewitness testimony, manuscript evidence, and how ancient sources help […]

Pope Francis has introduced a new Mass for the Care of Creation — what does it mean for the liturgy and the direction of the Church? We also break down: There's a lot to unpack — theological implications, public reactions, and what it means for Catholics today.

Everyone's debating “Do Muslims and Christians worship the same God?”—but they're missing the bigger picture. In this video, we dive into what Vatican II’s Lumen Gentium actually says—and what most people completely overlook. Yes, the document famously states that “the Muslims… along with us adore the one and merciful God,” but did you catch the […]

Eastern Orthodox apologist Jay Dyer claims that the Catholic magisterium has contradicted itself—specifically when it comes to Islam. He argues that medieval and modern popes taught conflicting things: some affirmed that Muslims worship the same God as Christians, while others (like Pope Urban II) allegedly said Muslims worship demons. But is that actually a contradiction […]

BREAKING: Sam Shamoun Admits He's NOT CATHOLIC – Why Has He Been Saying He Is? For months, Sam Shamoun has publicly claimed to be a Catholic and even appeared on Catholic shows sharing his “conversion” story. But in response to questions raised in my previous video, Sam finally admitted he has not formally entered the […]

In this video, I respond directly to Sam Shamoun's latest hit piece and clarify key points about Catholic teaching and apologetics. I address misunderstandings and invite Sam to engage with humility and charity. This isn't just about a disagreement — it's about truth, respect, and growth in faith. Whether you follow Sam, me, or are […]

Did I misrepresent Sam Shamoun on the nature of the God of the Qur'an and the Trinity? In this in-depth response, I carefully walk through Sam's claims, public behavior, and theology—while addressing whether my portrayal of his views was fair and accurate. Along the way, I explore the Catholic magisterium's teaching on Islam, clarify the […]

Did Sam Shamoun really convert to Catholicism? In this in-depth episode, I carefully walk through the evidence, claims, and public statements surrounding Sam's religious identity and whether he has actually entered full communion with the Catholic Church. This isn't about accusations—it's about clarity. We look at Sam’s own words, Church law, the process for reception […]

The Bible contains some challenging passages that seem to suggest God can mislead or send a “lying spirit” — so what's going on? In this video, we dive into those difficult texts and explore whether God ever truly deceives people, what Scripture says about His character, and how to make sense of these mysteries. Join […]

In this video, we take a close, careful look at what the popes have actually said about Islam's understanding of God. Some people claim that the God of the Quran is Satan — but is that really what the popes and the Catholic Church teach? We'll explore key statements from Church teaching, highlight what makes […]

Was the Promised Land Given to Israel on Condition of Obedience? In this video, we dive into one of the most important questions in biblical theology: Were God's promises about the land of Canaan unconditional, or did Israel have to obey the Law of Moses to keep it? We'll look at the key biblical texts […]

Trump Declares Ceasefire Deal Between Iran and Israel

Ceasefire Violated – Trump Goes Off On Israel!

BREAKING: Iran is Bombing Qatar; Iran Uranium Missing After US Attack

Trump Just Bombed Iran — Here's What We Know So Far

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 […]