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    It's Been a Minute with Sam Sanders
    The Rapture was a bust, but it still feels like doomsday.

    It's Been a Minute with Sam Sanders

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 18:10


    The Christian rapture didn't happen as predicted, but a lot of you still feel like we're living in end times. Why is that?Right now - from religion to climate change to doomsday prepping - there's a lot of talk about the end of the world. And, yeah, there was a lot of joking (and some believing) this week that the rapture would happen, but this all points to a broader feeling a lot of us have: that something has to change. But what?In this episode, Brittany is joined by culture writer Joshua Rivera and national writer for Religion News Service Bob Smietana. They answer those questions and get into why the rapture is so appealing to Christians and non-Christians alike. And how Christian beliefs about the end of days are seeping into all of our minds.Follow Brittany Luse on Instagram: @bmluseFor handpicked podcast recommendations every week, subscribe to NPR's Pod Club newsletter at npr.org/podclub.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

    Pray the Word with David Platt
    Trusting Jesus with the Impossible (Luke 5:4)

    Pray the Word with David Platt

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 5:25


    In this episode of Pray the Word on Luke 5:4, David Platt calls us to trust Jesus with that which we could never do on our own.Listen to our newest podcast, Everyday Radical!Explore more content from Radical.

    Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture
    Cultural Update: What About Those Rapture Promises?; Charlie Kirk and Faith in Politics

    Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 60:30


    Scott & Sean's topics this week: Failed rapture predictions once again made headlines, fueled by social media hype, raising questions about biblical teaching, authority, and how Christians should respond with truth and compassionReflection on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the role of faith in politics, with insights from David Brooks' concerns about blurring Christianity and partisanshipA discussion on artificial intelligence entering personal and family life, from birthday planning to parenting, and why some areas should never be outsourced to machinesListener question: How to respond when Protestant Christianity is called a cultListener question: How to comfort a grieving friend angry at GodListener question: How to process Charlie Kirk's legacy in light of divisive rhetoric and martyrdom language==========Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California. Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically. Watch video episodes at: https://bit.ly/think-biblically-video. To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.

    Jesuitical
    Debt relief in the jubilee, escaping nuns and Zac on newborn parenting

    Jesuitical

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 61:24


    This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac sit down with Dean Detloff, a research and advocacy officer at Development and Peace – Caritas Canada, to talk about the importance of foreign debt relief in the Jubilee Year. Ashley, Zac and Dean discuss: - The biblical roots of forgiving debts in a jubilee year - How foreign debt stunts the development of poor nations - Why framing matters when it comes to debt forgiveness versus relief and justice In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac discuss Charlie Kirk's memorial service, including the stark juxtaposition of Erika Kirk's and President Trump's messages. They also talk about the recent execution of Father Mathew Eya in Nigeria, where 7,000 Christians have been killed so far this year.  Zac and Ashley also react to the recent escape attempt by three elderly Austrian nuns and the retirement of Loyola Chicago's Sister Jean. In “As One Friend Speaks to Another,” Zac catches Ashley up on what he's been up to and the perspective of being a new father. Links for further reading:  Dean's writing for America Caritas Canada's Jubilee Debt Campaign Jubilee People's Forum at the G7 in Kananaskis, Alberta Peruvian Cardinal speaks at People's Forum in Alberta Pope Francis lifts suspension imposed on Nicaragua's Ernesto Cardenal Charlie Kirk's widow says she forgives husband's alleged killer at memorial attended by Trump, Vance Who is being served by making Charlie Kirk a saint: God or Caesar? ‘Nuns on the run' in Austria offer a complex picture of aging in religious life You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Richard Ellis Talks

    There will always be times for goodbyes, and we need to make sure that when we leave somewhere that we leave on good terms because it may be the last time we see certain people until eternity in Heaven. For Christians, we can cling to the promise that we will see our fellow Christians again, even after they leave this earth, in heaven.

    Andrew Farley
    “Will some Christians be left behind?”

    Andrew Farley

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 26:53


    My pastor told me that 70% of church members will be left behind at the rapture because of their ungodly living. Could this be true? I keep repenting and asking forgiveness for telling funny stories and cutting up. I can't seem to stop, and I wonder why I'm in this cycle. Can you help? An elder at my church said I need to focus on my recent sins at the Lord's Supper. He quoted from 1 Corinthians 11 about eating and drinking in an unworthy manner. What does that mean?

    BecomeNew.Me
    How Christians Should Be Thinking About the Rapture

    BecomeNew.Me

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 23:25


    John addresses a surge of rapture predictions (Sept 23rd) and reminds us the word “rapture” never appears in the Bible. He traces failed predictions from Millerites in 1844 to Harold Camping in 2011, showing how speculation damages faith. Revelation, he explains, was not written as a secret code for our timeline but as pastoral encouragement for persecuted believers. Babylon symbolized Rome, 666 symbolized unfaithfulness, and the central message is endurance and hope: God is redeeming creation, not abandoning it. The call is not to predict dates but to trust Christ and live faithfully in anxious times.00:00 — Did The Predicted Rapture On September 23 Really Happen?00:27 — Why Do People Keep Predicting The End Of The World?01:11 — What Should Christians Believe About The Rapture?03:01 — What Does 1 Thessalonians 4 Really Teach About The End Times?06:25 — How Should Christians Read The Book Of Revelation?09:34 — What Do Babylon And 666 Actually Mean In Revelation?11:54 — What Are The Main Christian Views On The Millennium?14:05 — What Does The Mark of the Beast Really Mean?16:00 — How Revelation Predicted Rome's Fall And Babylon's Ongoing Power20:49 — What Romans 8 Teaches About Creation, Hope, And RedemptionBecome New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.TEXT US at 855-888-0444EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.comGET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribeGET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team

    Culture Proof with Wil and Meeke Addison
    What happened to Candace? Our conversation with Todd Shannon of Todd Thinks

    Culture Proof with Wil and Meeke Addison

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 59:03


    Be sure to visit cultureproof.net Please consider supporting the Culture Proof Podcast. We aim to bring engaging content that will challenge and equip Christians to live according to the Straight Edge of Scripture. All gifts are tax deductible. Our Address is: S.E. Ministries PO Box 1269 Saltillo MS, 38866   Episode sponsors: BJUPress Homeschool We Heart Nutrition – Use the code CULTUREPROOF for 20% off Accountable2You – Try free for 10 days Culture Proof Listeners  THANKS!   Check out Todd Shannon's YouTube Channel Todd Thinks   Culture Proof Podcast Theme song "Believers" courtesy of Path of Revelation    

    Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
    The Parable of the Sower: Understanding Why the Gospel Takes Root in Some Hearts But Not Others

    Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 63:13


    In this insightful episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, hosts Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb begin their series on Jesus's parables by examining the Parable of the Sower (or Soils). This foundational teaching from Christ reveals why some hearts receive the gospel message while others reject it. The hosts unpack the four soil types Jesus describes, exploring what each represents spiritually and how these patterns continue to manifest today. They emphasize that while the parable reveals different responses to the gospel, it also provides comfort for believers engaged in evangelism, reminding us that outcomes ultimately depend not on the sower's skill but on the condition of the soil—a condition that only God can prepare. This episode offers both theological depth and practical encouragement for Christians seeking to understand the various responses to the gospel message in their own ministry contexts. Key Takeaways The Parable of the Sower serves as a hermeneutical key for understanding all of Jesus's parables, as it directly addresses why Jesus taught in parables and provides the interpretive framework for understanding their purpose. The parable reveals four types of responses to the gospel (represented by the four soils), but only one that leads to genuine salvation and fruit-bearing. The focus of the parable is not on the sower's skill or the seed's quality but on the condition of the soil—emphasizing God's sovereignty in salvation while encouraging continued evangelism. The "rocky ground" hearers represent those who initially receive the gospel with joy but have no root system to sustain them when trials come, often resulting in what we might call "deconstruction" today. Christians should expect varied responses to gospel proclamation and not be discouraged when the seed appears to be wasted on unresponsive hearts, as this pattern was predicted by Jesus himself. The parable provides a warning against shallow faith while encouraging believers to develop deep spiritual roots that can withstand persecution and trials. Genuine conversion is ultimately evidenced by fruit-bearing, not merely by initial enthusiasm or religious affiliation. Understanding the Soils The Parable of the Sower presents four distinct soil types, each representing different responses to the gospel message. The first soil—the path—represents hearts where the gospel makes no impact whatsoever; the seed simply bounces off and is quickly snatched away by Satan. This illustrates not merely outward rejection of the gospel, but also intellectual non-comprehension. As Tony explains, this doesn't necessarily mean active hostility toward the gospel but could simply be indifference: "It may not be someone who has like a closed fist, 'I hate the gospel, I hate everything about God,' but for some reason they're just not [interested]." This parallels Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 2:14 that "the natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him." The rocky soil represents those who initially receive the gospel with enthusiasm but lack depth. Their faith appears genuine at first but quickly withers under pressure or persecution. This phenomenon is particularly evident in what we often call "deconstruction" today—where someone who appeared genuinely converted falls away when their faith is tested. As Jesse notes, "I think what I've been helpful for me is to get outta my mind...what's the length of time here? Is it possible that somebody could be in this place...which presents like a setting down of deep roots that could last like years on end?" The parable reminds us that immediate joy at receiving the gospel is not necessarily evidence of saving faith, and it calls us to examine whether our own faith has sufficient depth to withstand trials. The Comfort of Realistic Expectations One of the most encouraging aspects of this parable is how it calibrates our expectations about evangelism and gospel ministry. Jesus teaches that when the gospel is proclaimed, we should expect varied responses—including outright rejection—not because of any failure in the message or messenger, but because of the condition of human hearts. This provides tremendous comfort for believers engaged in evangelistic efforts who might otherwise be discouraged by apparent failure. Tony highlights this point: "This parable is not about the skill of the sower or even the efficacy of the seed...The point of the parable...is that it has to do with the soil itself." This understanding frees us from the pressure of thinking we must somehow perfect our evangelistic technique or presentation, while also removing the false guilt that can come when people reject the message we share. Furthermore, the parable encourages continued, generous sowing of the gospel seed. As Tony observes, "We don't see the sower in this parable meticulously only identifying the good soil and only planting the seeds there. He does promiscuously spread this seed everywhere that he can." This reminds us that our responsibility is faithful proclamation, while the results remain in God's sovereign hands. Memorable Quotes "The Parable of the Sower teaches really that the gospel call goes out to all... but only those who God regenerates, that good soil, are gonna receive it savingly and will bear fruit." - Jesse Schwamb "Just because our experience of Christianity and our experience of being in the faith feels so genuine and real and rooted, we should also recognize that it felt real and genuine and rooted for [those who later fell away]... There's a caution there for us." - Tony Arsenal "The exhortation built into this is that we need to seek that root. We don't get to determine what kind of soil we are on an ultimate level—that's God's election and his secret providence. But on a horizontal level, in our experience of things, we have agency, we make decisions. We seek to be rooted or unrooted in the gospel." - Tony Arsenal Full Transcript [00:00:36] Introduction and Greetings Jesse Schwamb: Welcome to episode 462 of The Reformed Brotherhood. I am Jesse. Tony Arsenal: And I'm Tony. And this is the podcast of Good Soil. Hey brother. Jesse Schwamb: Hey brother. Well, will you look at us? Look at us. It's finally and officially begun. And that is this conversation. [00:01:00] Kickoff to the Parable Series Jesse Schwamb: This episode is really the kickoff, well, the first parable that we're going through together, starting a long conversation that I think is gonna bear much fruit, if you will. Yes. Maybe 30, maybe 60, maybe a hundred times. Lord willing. It's gonna be great. And we're starting off with a doozy. Yes. Actually, maybe this is like the granddaddy of all the parables because we're gonna hear Jesus tell us something about the word of God and how it's received among different hearers. And this is so fantastic. It's the only place to begin because this is truly some eternally contemporary words. Yeah, it's, this is the parable that's continually verified under our own eyes. Wherever the word of God is preached or expounded and people are assembled to hear it, the sayings of our Lord in this parable are found to be true. It describes what goes on as a general rule in our congregations in the world. Anytime the word of God goes out, what a place to begin. So we're gonna get there. It's gonna be great, don't you worry, dear listener. [00:02:04] Affirmations and Denials Jesse Schwamb: But of course, before we do that, it's our tradition, our word that's spoken is always something in affirmation with something or in denial against something. So I say to you, as I always do, Tony. What do you have for us on this episode? Uh, an affirmation or denial. Tony Arsenal: This is an affirmation. I'll try to keep it nice and short and tight. Uh, I am affirming everything that comes with the fall. It's the air's getting crisp. The season, the, the pumpkin. Yeah. Not, not the fall. With the, let's, let's, let's clarify. I'm affirming everything that comes with autumn. So, uh, the air's crisp, the pumpkin spice is flowing, the leaves are starting to come down. Although, as a New Englander, I feel like I might be a little disappointed this year they're saying that it might not be as vibrant because we've been under a bit of a drought. But, uh, I, I'm all for all of it. Sweaters, gimme like a nice cozy scarf to put on and like a, I don't know, like a stocking cap. Gimme some flannel. I'm just ready to rock and roll. I'm, I'm, I'm done with summer and I'm ready for fall and yeah, that's, that's the whole thing. That's the affirmation. Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. [00:03:09] Autumnal Delights and Debates Jesse Schwamb: Beautiful. It's speaking of like eternally or seasonally contemporary. That is so good. Plus I would say like the fall or autumn. The best adjectives, doesn't it? Yes. Like including like the word ottum. Yes. Like, that's just a great word that we, we do not use enough of. So this season, loved ones dropping a tum in there because Yes. It's just such a good word. Tony Arsenal: And I, I know people hate on the pumpkin spice and uh, there was a rev, I think I've said this before, it's re revolutionized my understanding because I used to get so mad because I was like, this doesn't even taste like pumpkin. It's not pumpkin flavored items, it's pumpkin spiced. Flavored items. So it's the, the spice you would use in pumpkin pie is the spice that they're talking about. So people complain that you're just putting nutmeg in things. And to that, I say yes, that's the point. You just start adding nutmeg or pumpkin spice or cloves or all spice or whatever it might be. The point is we're using the same spices that you would use for making a pumpkin pie or some other sort of fall. Delicious fall. Pumpy squashy, goodness. Jesse Schwamb: You got that right. This is a classic case of don't hate the player. Hate the game. Tony Arsenal: It's true, it's true. And if you don't like it, if you don't like pumpkin spice, then just don't talk to me at all. I'm just kidding. Still get pumpkin spice. Like you can go to Starbucks and get the same, same coffee you always get. You don't have to get pumpkin spice, you don't have to drink pumpkin beer, you don't have to do any of that. The all the stuff is, all the normal stuff is still available. They don't tell you you can't have it. Nobody is opening your mouth and pouring it down your throat. So just calm down, order your normal drip coffee and move on with your life. Jesse Schwamb: Speaking of polarizing autumnal type things, I don't know if we've talked about probably, we have talked about this and I've just forgotten. Where do you land on the whole. Cotton, uh, sorry. Candy corn, not cotton candy, but candy corn. Tony Arsenal: I, I feel like we have talked about this and my perspectives may have changed over the years. I'm not a big fan of candy corn, but I will eat it until I vomit. If you put it in front, I think is the, is the consensus that if there's a bowl of it in front of me, the first thing that I will do is I will break off two little white tips of the ca uh, candy corn and stick them on my fangs and pretend to be vampire. Jesse Schwamb: Beautiful. Tony Arsenal: And then I will eat the remainder of the pound and a half of candy that's in front of me until I throw up. Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. And I know there's some difference between like candy, corn and like the little pumpkin confectionary ones. Yeah. Some people prefer those over others. And then this is not even to talk about the whole debate between when it comes to Reese's Peanut butter cups and Oh yeah. The pumpkin variety of those and No, all that stuff. Tony Arsenal: No. Mm. Jesse Schwamb: No. To those? Tony Arsenal: No, to those. The, the shaped, the shaped, uh, Reese's Peanut butter objects, I suppose they're not cups at that point. Uh, they use a different kind of peanut butter. I dunno if you know that, but they use a different peanut butter. So they, they actually do taste different than the actual didn't know that says peanut butter cups. Um, it's either a different kind of peanut butter or a different kind of chocolate. But one of the primary substances, uh, not in the Aristotelian sense, uh, one of the primary substances is different. And so it does actually taste different. It's not as good. And then the balance between the chocolate and the peanut butter is off. It's, it's not good. I'm a, I'm a peanut butter cup. Uh, I like to say aficionado, but I think probably snob would be a better. A better term for it. Jesse Schwamb: Listen, you'll, you like what you like by the way, only on this podcast, only, I think among long-term listeners, would it be necessary to clarify that you do not mean substance in there was six alien sense. Tony Arsenal: That's true. That's, that's definitely true. Well, Jesse, that is where we are. Enough about my, uh, fall. Uh, food preferences. What are you affirming and or denying? Tonight, [00:07:02] Musical Recommendations Jesse Schwamb: I'm gonna also come along with you on it with the affirmation, and maybe while you're drinking that PSL or you're searching for that candy, corn, you might like, want something to put into your ears that isn't us, that's a little bit more melodic. And so I'm affirming with the, this time and age in which it is all about curation. That's often a lovely thing. I use Spotify for all of my music consumption, and they just fed me like a really interesting playlist that I would never have thought of as a category, but I've really been enjoying, it's called Math Rock. And I saw, and I thought I'm, I'm usually kinda like dubious of the Spotify playlist because like they're kind of out there for me generally. But I thought to myself, well, this is an interesting port man too. Like, I like math. I like rock, and the description was complex rhythms and mesmerizing loops. So I thought, I like complex rhythms. I like loops that continue and mesmerize, so the check it out for yourself. If you're looking for something that's like, it's enough to be interesting while you're working on something, but not too interesting. So that distracts you. This is apparently the jam. So yeah, it's like just really interesting rock oriented, mostly instrumental music that is like. Really motivating, but again, not interesting enough to really distract you from the task at hand if that's not your thing. The other thing I would recommend, I know you'll join me in this, Tony, is that poor Bishop Hooper released a new album this week. It's called The Serpent and the Seed, and this one has a ton of tracks on it, like 18 or so, and it, it as well is a unique mix of both instrumental, really lovely, beautiful pieces and then some that carry more vocal and melodic stuff that's kind of their customary jam. Both of 'em are great. They both do have kind of an an autumnal vibe, if I'm honest. Now I'm thinking about it. It's really the perfect compliment to whatever it is that you're consuming that has that pumpkin spice in it. So math, rock, the serpent and the seed. There you go. Tony Arsenal: I'm trying to synthesize. I mean, math and rock are like two of Jesse's favorite things. So I'm trying to synthesize what it would be like to scream the quadratic equation at someone with some sort of like slightly off cadence, dissonant guitar rift underneath. Jesse Schwamb: Yeah. Tony Arsenal: I feel like there's a Me Without You album out there somewhere that that's exactly what it is. But Jesse Schwamb: yeah, probably there should Tony Arsenal: be at least. Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, there, there absolutely should be. And I'm with you. I'm willing to work on that album. That's a great idea. Like just, it's just an album of mathematical equations and like the deep mysteries of life, you know, listen, math is beautiful. Numbers are stories. There's, there's so much there. Yeah. You had me at Quadratic, so I, I think we've, we've given people a lot to enjoy in this fall season. It's true. Tony Arsenal: I, I. I couldn't solve a quadratic equation to save my entire life at this point. Uh, I took introduction to logic when I got to college 'cause I couldn't remember how to multiply fractions on the entrance exam. That's fair. So that's fair. So that was, that's my experience with math. But right Jesse Schwamb: now the internet wants to keep serving me videos about, you've seen like all these tests, like these entrance exams for like Harvard or like the Ivy Leagues, other Ivy Leagues, and it is all these random things, you know, like we're solving for like two variables, terminally, and there is some kinda like expon explanation to it. Um. Yeah, I guess that's what I've become and I watch 'em all. They honestly get me every time. Yeah. I'm like, I'm not gonna watch that. And then I'm like, oh, I'm definitely gonna watch that. So it just happens. It's great. Tony Arsenal: I love it. Meanwhile, meanwhile, YouTube is desperately trying to get me to watch Season six and Cobra High. And it's very quickly gonna be succeeding. I think the next time Netflix has a, has a promotion where I can get a cheap month or something like that, I will definitely be binging Cobra Kai. So I feel like our YouTube algorithms are very different. Jesse Schwamb: Very different. Yeah. Very different. Certainly in, um, there is a commonality of, of the mysteries of the world and. [00:11:06] Introduction to the Parable of the Sower Jesse Schwamb: In some way, that's what we're talking about in this entire series. And yeah, if for some reason you didn't hear a conversation from two weeks ago where we really set the table, I think for what a parable is, why Jesus uses parables. As far as I remember, you correct if I'm wrong, it was the definitive conversation about why the parable is not just peace wise in Jesus' teaching, but really why it's the centerpiece. Yeah, we talked about that at great length. So now we're really ready to go. If you didn't hear that, I highly recommend you go back and hear that. 'cause there's so much. I realize as we, we looked at this parable of the sower or better like the parable of the soils, that we could do a whole series on just this bad boy. Such not just like wide interpretation, but wide application. So much for us to really chew on and then to really come back to and chew the could. So we're gonna have to be probably every time a little bit self-editing and brief. So if you're just yelling at your device, why aren't you talking about this thing? There's a great place for you to yell into or maybe just calmly and very politely suggest rather than the void, you can join our Telegram group. Telegram is just an app for, it's kind of a conversational tool and platform, and if you're looking for it and I know that you are, don't, why would you even fool yourself? It's, you can find it by going to T Me Reform Brotherhood. There's a whole channel, there's a bunch of channels there, a bunch of little conversations that we have compartmentalize. There's one just to talk about the episode. So as we go through this, my encouragement to everybody is track with us, get your scriptures out. Come along with us in the actual journey of processing this. Do spend some time processing it with us. And then when there is inevitably that thing, they're like, why didn't you talk about this? You know, a great place to converse with others and us about that would be in the Telegram Chat. So T Me Reform Brotherhood. So enough of that, let's get to it. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. And you know, there's, there's some, um, there's some logic that would say we should have just rather than doing an Introduction to Parables episode, we should have just done the parable, because this parable does really follow, it really does form like an introduction to all of Christ's parabolic teachings. And, you know, it's, no, it's no, um, mystery either in God's providence or just in Matthew as being a, a, you know, somewhat genius level composer of, of a work of literature in putting this parable first, because you're absolutely right at the top of the show that this parable really is. Almost like the hermeneutical key for all of the parables. Not just for in terms of like understanding the parables, it doesn't do that so much. But in understanding the purpose of the parables and more importantly, explicitly in the middle of this, Christ explains why he teaches in parables. So we covered that a lot last time, so we're not gonna, we're gonna skip over that middle section 'cause we don't need to rehash that. But this really is the granddaddy of all the parables. It it is, um. It is Christ's teaching on why he uses parables in action. It's the application of his own theology, of parables, if you want to call it that. Uh, in principle. And he is gracious enough that in this very first parable, he actually gives us the interpretation, right, which is, is not entirely unique, um, in, in the gospels, but it is not always the norm. There are a fair number of parables where Christ just drops the parable and leaves it there, um, for both his immediate listeners to figure out and then also for us to figure out. We're not given the inspired interpretation, but this one we are given the inspired interpretation. And Jesse, I had to laugh because, um. Just as you get really, really upset and worked, worked up about when people say Christ's body broken for you. Uh, it just drives me nuts when people call this the parable of the soils. 'cause Christ gives it a name, right? So, so we'll talk about that too. And I, I'm, I'm mostly playing, like, I'm not gonna jump through the screen at you or anything like that, but that's the, one of the other unique features of this parable is that it's given it's, it's given a name. Um, and that's part of the interpretation is that in most cases, parables have a primary figure or a primary point that's being made. And if you get that primary point wrong or that primary figure wrong, um, you tend to get the rest of the parable wrong. In this case, Christ graciously tells us who the parable is about or what the parable is about, and then later on when we get to the, the next parable or a couple parables down, um, he actually tells us more about the parable through some other teaching as well. [00:15:38] Reading and Analyzing the Parable Tony Arsenal: So, Jesse, do you have that text in front of us? Do you wanna go ahead and read that first chunk? That's the parable itself. Jesse Schwamb: I do, let's do it by the way. Uh, maybe somebody should keep track. Here's a fun little game of how many times we say parable or parabolic. And of course, whenever I hear parabolic, I always think, of course there is like something of great hyperbole or allegory, but I often think of, uh, parabola, which to your point, Tony, I think you're just doing this for my sake now, and I love, this is an exponent oriented equation. Of course, it's a like a canonical section, which can only be creative mathematically by pronunciation again. So thank you for that. I thought you just did that for me, so Tony Arsenal: I have no idea what you just said. You might as well have been speaking like Hindu. Jesse Schwamb: It's fantastic. Well, let's, let's get to the actual, the best word, the word of life. And this is from Matthew chapter 13. Beginning just at the start of the chapter. That same day, Jesus went out of his, uh, house and sat beside the sea and, and great crowds gathered about him so that he got into a boat and sat down and the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables saying. A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path and the birds came and devoured them. Other seeds fell on rocky ground where they did not have much soil, and immediately they sprung up since they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched. And since they had no roots, they were it away. Other seeds fell among thorns and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and produced grain. Some a hundred fold, some 60, some 30. He who has ears, let him hear. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. So on a surface level here, the, the parable is straightforward, right? We have a very straightforward picture, which is, is common for most of the parables, that it's not some sort of unusual, crazy out there situation that's being described. It's a common scenario from everyday life, uh, that doesn't tend to have sort of like. Mythological legendary kinds of characteristics. We have a simple farmer who is out sowing his seeds. Um, some of the commentaries we'll point out, and I don't, I dunno how accurate this is or isn't, but I, I saw it in, in a couple different commentaries. So I'm inclined to, to believe it that our model of farming, uh, in sort of a western world or, or maybe not western world, but in a more, I dunno, technologically advanced world, is to teal the ground till the ground first, Jesse Schwamb: right? Tony Arsenal: And then to scatter seed. And it was much more common in the ancient world to actually scatter the seed kind of, uh, promiscuously and then till the ground. Um, I don't know the reasons for that. I'm not a horticulturist, but, um. The, the, one of the critiques that I've heard, and it's funny when people try to critique Jesus is 'cause they're always proven wrong, but one of the critiques I've heard is like, no farmer whatever would ever do this. Like, no, no sower would ever just throw seed on the ground, but this actually is the way they would've done farming. So he's, he's taking an everyday scenario that everyone would've been familiar with. Right. Nobody would've been like, oh yeah, that doesn't make any sense. They would've just said, oh yeah, of course you just throw the seed on the ground and then you come back around later and you do what you need to do. So it, it was really a scenario where some of the seed would've fallen on the path. And we're not talking about like a road next to the farm, but a lot of times the, the field had sort of, um. They're probably called like convenience trails is what they're called now. But people would travel through the, through the paths, and so there would be an area that's already walked, walked on that's a little bit easier to traverse. And eventually that area would turn into a pathway. So it was, it was kind of turned into sort of like hard clay turf that you couldn't get the seed into anyways. And then there would've been areas where, um, there was rocks under the surface. Most of our fields that our farm fields have been tilled and prepared and have been worked over, that the stones had been removed. But it wasn't always like that in the ancient world. And then you would've had areas where there was, uh, there was other vegetation, thorns, weeds, other kinds of plants that would've made, made it difficult for the crop to sprout and to bear fruit. So we have a very common scenario. There's nothing surprising about this. There's nothing out of the ordinary. It's just a simple farming metaphor that Christ employs here. Jesse Schwamb: And in some ways that's very consistent of course, because we have these very ordinary, normal things that God is using as a means of explanation for something that is very extraordinary, very supernatural. So we have the natural coming into play, not just as a representation, but to really demonstrates, illustrates and impound both in structure and form. This idea of what it means for the gospel to be communicated. And I'm with you, my understanding is in most ancient world. Those, those fields, we tend to think of them as fields and often the reference that way were like more like these narrow strips of land separated by these paths and you have this farmer casting the seed like very liberally. And not only that, but I think what's interesting right on the face. Is we see that there are basically four potential outcomes here and only one of those outcomes, 'cause we're already understanding this to mean the sowing of the sea, which is the word of life, which is the gospel message. Only one of those outcomes results in kingdom growth. There's a ratio of three to one. There's three times as many poor outcomes. In other words, there's all of these various ways in which we find that the seed is not rejected or does not result in the intended fruit. But there is just one path, one narrow kind of way in which it does result, and then it results in kind of various outcomes in terms of like the magnitude of the fruit or the plants that result from this planting. But as a result of that. I think what's really interesting to me right on the face is that we're seeing, like you said, there is a sower. He's casting the seed deliberately, he's coming on the path and he's just throwing it out. And in that narrow strip of land, there are all these different soils. And so right away we see if you're, if you're a farmer, you're understanding something about, it's not about the skill of the farmer in the casting of the seed. It's not even about the, the skill of the seed to grow. It's about the soil itself. And so again, we have this as three times as many potentially poor outcomes as there are for the one that results in this grand harvest. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. Yeah. And the one thing about this that might be, might have been, and, and again, some of the commentators are, are split on this, but might have been a sort of unexpected, um, element. And, and this is something we do see with, uh, with the parables, is there's usually some sort of, um. Unexpected or dramatic or turn of events kind of element, usually towards the end of a parable that would make, would, should be a subversion of expectations. Right? Right. And so the, in this instance, um, a yield of 30 times or, or 60 times or a hundred times, all of those yields would be crazy high yields. Um, you know, I, I, I think there are some plants, some of the commentators will make, make a point that there are some plants where like a 30. A 30 yield is normal. Um, but a 30 or a 60 or a hundred times yield of a crop is, is not the expectation. And so I think in, in a scenario like this, the reader or the listener is prepped by the fact that there are three, uh, negative outcomes and only one favorable outcome. To assume that the crop yield is not going to be great. Right? And then the reality is the crops that do sprout the crops that land on the good soil or the seed that lands on the good soil. Not only is it productive, it's so productive that it actually outpaces and kind of compensates for the lack of productivity or the lack of fruitfulness of the other three. So it's, it's three different, uh, it's four possible outcomes and then three levels of fruitfulness. And so this parable does sort of cause the listener or the hearer to think about, um, and start, you know, from the very outset, think about what does, what does it mean that the seed landed on the path and was stolen away by the birds? What does it mean that it sprouted quickly and uh, but didn't have roots and so it withered away in the sun? And what does it mean that, you know, it sprouted among thorns and so it couldn't bear fruit. And then I think the implied, um, the implied question that's being forced here because the parable does start out, you know, saying there was the sower, the sower, um. Sowed this seed out. He doesn't introduce this the same way he normally, he normally does or commonly does, right? Jesus often will start the peril ball by saying something like, the kingdom of God is like, right? Or you know this. This is like that. This, he just starts out saying like, a sower was out in the, in the field sowing seed. So the, the listener is not primed to know what the comparison is necessarily, but I think part of that is that now they're forced to ask what is the comparison? And I don't think it's much of a stretch. And again, this is why parables are so kind of paradoxical is it's not a difficult, when we get to the interpretation, it's not difficult to see the interpretation. Right, right. It's, it's easy to understand that the parable here, the metaphor is, is different reactions of, of some sort to. To a given thing, right? It's, it's different reactions to an investment of some sort. There's an investment of seed and in some instances it just doesn't take, in other instances, it takes and it doesn't sprout, and in other instances it sprouts, but it never fruits. So when we get to the interpretation, Jesus is gonna give us the clarity of what that investment is, and then who are, or what are the outcomes and what do they mean? In, in our, you know, in our thought process of what the kingdom of God is like. Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, so let's do it then. [00:25:44] Understanding the Soils Jesse Schwamb: 'cause what we've got here is we basically have, each soil is representing some type of here. So we've got four heres but only one true believer. So it's probably behooves us to go through all of them and really kind of chat through. And maybe what we can do is try to bring some of our own practical application to each of these. I've been really meditating and pondering that, trying to think if this is practical for us, then how can we understand how each of these are being manifest all around us? And of course the intention here is not to like name people that we think fall into each of these four little groups, but more so to think about how we might understand people who do fall into each of these groups. And that is to say that. Each one of these, well, the, the first three rather, that these ones in which they're, the soil is in some degree suboptimal. I, I don't know that it means that it's always that way, for instance. So we might think of people that fall into those categories, but the Lord may be moving or working in them to move them into that fourth category. And of course, he's done that with ourselves, so we know that that's exactly how he operates. Um, and it's, I think it's good for us to remember that. I think there's a lot that's scary about this first soil, this idea that. The seed just bounces. So we get no uptake whatsoever in this one. But the other ones, at least you get a little satisfaction that there's some kind of reception. There is a receipt of that word. And the reason why I find this one to be so troubling is because these who hear it in the first case, they don't understand and they don't esteem it. And Christ is very clear to say that the seed itself doesn't sit there long. It bounces. So there's a, there is a literal hardness. That's reflected in that clay soil or that path, which is down trotted. And it's hard because of perhaps this constant lack of belief, this constant and unrepentant hearts or lifestyle, but it would be enough if it just kinda bounced off and sat there. But the fact that it's snatched away that the birds come and take it away, that Satan himself has an active and powerful role in influencing all of those who are hearing this word. And I think that hardness of heart may not just be manifest in, say, like an unrepentant lifestyle or this kind of clench fist against God on the inside, which is of course true of the natural man. But more than that, that anything that would take us away from true belief. So that is even any kind of our religious system or belief, any kind of philosophy, any kind of other worldview I think is in mind here because we know the devil comes to kill, steal, and destroy. And so. What he's doing in that sometimes happens first and foremost in the mind, manifested in the heart and then in our behaviors. So if he's stealing away this word by replacing it with something that is false, that is not true, that destroys, that pulls us away and moves us away, then this is very scary. He has a real power, which we talked about. I don't know, like maybe six or so episodes ago. It's worth listening to, I think. And so what I find here that is really traumatizing upfront is the involvement in particular of the sinful man under his own mean estate. That is, that it's clear that the natural man cannot conceive of the things of God without regeneration, and Jesus makes it abundantly clear. He's, he's basically saying what Paul says later on in First Corinthians when he writes, the natural person does not accept the things of the spirit of God, does not accept them. So again, there's no agreement. There's no, even an intellectual ascent does not accept the things of the spirit of God for they are folly to him and he's not able to understand them because they're spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one for who is understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him. But we have the mind of Christ, so there is no mind of Christ, which is, it's a horrible way to live life. And so in that space we have both the natural man, his total depravity, unable to pull himself up by his theological bootstraps or philosophical bootstraps or his intellectual emotional bootstraps to even discern what the way in which the world really actually is. And then in in, I say in addition to that, we have the devil himself waging war and attacking by pulling away that seed. Tony Arsenal: Yeah. And I have a little bit of a different take on this and I think this is what I am looking forward to in this series. Is there, there is gonna be. [00:30:01] Understanding the Parable of the Sower Tony Arsenal: Different, uh, different understandings that probably all fall and are all compatible, but all fall within a acceptable range of understanding. Here, you know, I, in, in reading some of the commentaries, Calvin makes the point that all four of these different types of seed represent people who in some sense are open to the gospel. They're, they're open to, he, he makes the point that this is not talking about the, the person who like refuses to hear the gospel at all, who like won't even come into the church. This is a person predominantly who is, is exposed to the word in some sense, probably in view as someone who's among the people of God who's in the, in the, in the physical body of the people of God who's among Christians or among those hearing the word. And for whatever reason, the, the, the seed doesn't, uh, it doesn't even get into the soil. Right, and he compares, Christ compares, um, this not to somebody who is hardhearted, but to someone who doesn't understand, right? That there's an intellectual element to this, right? You think of, um, you know, you think of somebody who hears the scripture and probably understands outwardly what it means, but doesn't ever comprehend it internally. They don't ever really, they don't ever really let it penetrate into their, into their hearts. Um, so it's been sewn into their hearts, but it doesn't actually take root in their hearts in any other sense. [00:31:38] The Role of the Soil in Receiving the Word Tony Arsenal: And this is what's a little bit different from, from the other ones that we're gonna see in all of the other cases. The seed takes root, Jesse Schwamb: right? Tony Arsenal: It actually penetrates the ground and begins to grow. Um, it, this is a seed that never even makes it that far. And so it may not be someone who has like a, who necessarily has like a closed fist. I hate the gospel. I hate everything about God, but for some reason they're just not. And when we say for some reason I'm talking, obviously I'm talking la you know, horizontally. Um, we know that the reason that they don't have an open heart is 'cause the Holy Spirit is not open to their heart. But for whatever earthly temporal reason, the word just doesn't penetrate. It bounces off of them. It just doesn't get there. Not necessarily because they're outwardly hostile to it. They just maybe are not interested in it. And so this is where I think that. Along with the evil one, snatching it away. That's actually like one in the same thing. Is, is part of what I think this is getting at is that the, the, the only reason that the, um, that Satan can snatch away the word from their heart or what has been sewn into their heart is because their heart has not received it. And so it's that sort of dual function and, and maybe it's kind of like, almost like, uh, in Exodus, you know, God hardening the heart and then Pharaoh hardening the heart and those two things are happening, you know, by means of concurs that God is doing it in a divine sense. I almost feel like this is an instance where kind of like the, the census or, or with job where Satan is the one who is doing it, but it's ultimately attributed to God as well. It's the hardening of the heart, but it's also the hardness of heart. Um, all of those things are playing a dynamic, but ultimately the point here is that there are those who the word is preached to. [00:33:30] The Sower's Responsibility and the Soil's Condition Tony Arsenal: Um, you know, we will find out in, in a little bit later, like, the sower is Christ in, in these parables here. It's not, it's not generally the sowing of the word. It's Christ who is sowing the word. It's the son who is sowing, uh, the seed of the word. And we can think about that either during his own ministry. This certainly was, um, was true of his own ministry on Earth, that there were some who just did not receive the word and they just, it just bounced off of them. But then also as the son sows the seed through his people, down through the church age, through history, whether it's in the Lord's Day service or personal, witnessing, personal, you know, um, evangelism, it's still God who is sowing the seed. It's still the Lord who is the sower of the seed. But even in that context, there are still some who just don't receive it. So I think what you said earlier is really, is really spot on. This parable is not about. The skill of the sower or even the efficacy of the seed. Right. And I think sometimes people read this and they, they look at it as though it is actually the sewer's fault. What a dumb sower. He sowed it on the path. Of course it's not gonna take root. That's not the point of the parable at all. The point of the parable, and we learn it just right, this very first one, is that it has to do with the, the soil itself. Which is why, you know, I, I kind of joke about calling it the parable of the soils, and that's a fine way to refer to it. And most of these parables could have multiple different, you know, accurate titles as well. But the point of the parable, or the main point of the parable is that the soil itself is what determines the outcome. Again, you know, we, we don't need to get into all the theological details of how the soil becomes, what the soil is. This show has the word reformed in the title. You can figure out that we're gonna say, well, God is the one that prepares the soil. And that also just fits with the, with the a parable here, right? The good soil is only good because it's been tilled and prepared by the sower ahead of time, right? So I think that's, that's spot on. And, and you know, as I think about the people I know in my life, um, it's very easy to get discouraged when you try to so seed to, to follow through on the metaphor when you try to so seed and it feels like it bounces off. But we shouldn't be surprised at that. We shouldn't be surprised when someone is just not interested because Christ in his very first parable tells us there are people out there like that. That doesn't mean you don't sow the seed, it doesn't mean you don't continue to spread the seed the way that the sower does. And the reason for that is that some of it is going to take, take root, some of it is going to take root and bear fruit and you are not in charge and you don't control which one does which. We don't see the sower in this parable meticulously only identifying the good soil and only planting the seeds there. He does promiscuously spread this, so this seed everywhere that he can. [00:36:26] The Reality of Hardheartedness Jesse Schwamb: Yeah, there is something there that I think is comfortable about this hardness of the soil, because I think sometimes we underestimate that the normative position of man is to be antagonistic toward God. That's not to say like we're talking about in their every action they take, they're going to refuse to hear the gospel or they're going to fight vehemently or out outwardly against it. But it's true that everywhere we find the scriptures, whether it's this other metaphor about God, again, doing this great surgery, of taking out this height of stone, which is of course hardheartedness or whether we go to like Romans three, where Paul says that there's no one who understands, there's no one who seeks God. So we understand that the default position is, one, nobody's seeking after God. Two, that God is too threatening to us. He threatens ourself. He threatens our ego, he threatens our own way. He threatens our contingency, all of which we try to fight against, like to our own dismay. And you know, basically. You know, it's willing, suspension of disbelief. But it's interesting and I think comforting here that what he's saying is, is exactly what you've just said, which is do not he, he'd almost say like loved ones. Do not be surprised when you find that people are just not that interested. They're just not into the gospel. Because your default position is to be a gospel abuser. To be a covenant breaker. And so because of that, there's just a natural hardness. And that hardness, I think he has to draw out. He has to say it's gonna bounce and Satan's gonna snatch it away because it would be, it's too easy to look at those who are just like vehemently opposed to the gospel that wanna debate. You wanna shut you down, wanna yell at you, wanna put signs in your face, wanna spit on you. That's too easy to be like, well, of course. Those people are not gonna receive it. But what about the quiet people who just don't care? Or, yeah. What about the people who are too caught up in their way of life or their simple behaviors or their patterns, or again, just what? What about those? What about the Mormons? When they come to your door and you can speak into your blue in the face about what Paul says, like the gospel plus anything is anathema, and they're just kinda like, yes. Yeah. Totally. That's fine. Totally down with that. And you're like, yeah, but you're doing, you're doing that very thing. This is great comfort to know that even those situations where you're not at war explicitly with somebody, that it's still comforting to know that this is going to happen. And also I think it's a great reminder that apart from God, apart from that changing of the soil, as you said, Tony, we would be those same people. That's in fact where we start. I, I don't say that. Like there's a progression here. We find in the, from moving from one to four. There is though something like you've said, where it's just interesting that Jesus shows us the very kind of shades of this. And I think, again, we gotta get out of our head like the, the temporality of this or like, well, what length of time are we talking about? Like when we get to the second one, which we should move on to. And there is some sprouting of the seed. Like how much time are we talking about? Like if it's two weeks, are they in camp two, if it's three weeks, are they moved out of that into some other, one of the other schools? Uh, I think it's just to show us that there are really, again, four hearers, one believer, and we can see clearly what the one believer looks like. It's a little bit more difficult to maybe sometimes discern what the other three look like, but it gives us hope and encouragement and basically just a sense of like, this is the way the world works. To know pres positionally, that when we go out, and like you said, I love this already, this is a major theme, is speak the gospel to all people. I mean, in this way, the gospel is for all people. Because Jesus' saying, do not cast the seed here. Go and look at that narrow path and find out, try to keep it off the, the hard ground. Do not let the devil snatch it up. It just says, throw and seed, throw and seed. And so we have to keep doing that stuff. [00:40:10] The Challenge of Shallow Roots Jesse Schwamb: So let's get to number two. What, what? Yeah. What say? Yeah. Tony Arsenal: Let me read it here. This is in verse, uh, 20 and 21. Here. It says, as for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy. Yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while. And when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the world, immediately he falls away. So thi this is the person who, um, who has some sort of outward conversion experience, right? It's a person who receives the word, he receives it with joy, um, and appears to sprout, right? This is seed that has taken hold and has, uh, you know, the, the, and we, we can see that it has taken hold. So it's not just some hidden seed that has roots and never breaks the surface. Right. It's a, it's a, it's a plant that has made its way into the soil. It has taken roots of some sort. Um, but the roots are shallow. The roots never actually get, uh, deep enough to, to be able to survive the sun, right. In the, the original parable, it's, it's baked by the sun. And, you know, this is, um, I think what what we're gonna see is maybe to sort of preface your question, and I think probably this is gonna be one of those two parter episodes, even though we planned it to be one parter episode. Um, I think what we're gonna see here is that you can't actually know whether someone is. The hard rocks is the rocks or the thorns. Right? Un until, until all is said and done. Right. Right. And that's part of what's difficult is you, you want to look at a parable like this, and this is where I think maybe this is a good sort of like caution against overinterpreting, the parables, right? Christ is not trying to give us a rubric to identify who is what. Jesse Schwamb: Right. He's Tony Arsenal: not trying to give us like a litmus test to say like, that person is the hard soil. That person is the rocks. That person is the thorns. And you know, this reminds me, I, I recall, I, I dunno how many years ago, it was a couple years ago when Kanye West was going through his like Jesus phase, right? And he, everyone was like, oh my gosh, I can't believe that Kanye is a Christian and he's writing this album called Jesus. Jesus Saves. And, and I, I just remember saying at the time, like, guys, there's a parable of the soils here. Like we should be. Um, we should be joyful that it, it appears that this seed is taking root, but there are lots of different outcomes when the seed takes root. And it's funny because I, I don't, I don't remember what episode this was and please don't go look it up 'cause that's a waste of everyone's time. But I remember when that conversation happened and I don't know whether there was an affirmation or a denial or what context came up in, but I remember contrasting him to Justin Bieber. And it's ironic, right, because I actually just read on Twitter today. Let me see if I can find the post during the next time you're talking. Justin Bieber posted this really amazing, theologically astute, mature kind of statement on Twitter today. And I think at the time, if you had asked me, um, is Kanye more likely to be the good soil or Justin Bieber to be the good soil, I would've said Kanye. Right? Just because he's, he was older, he is a little bit more established in himself. Um. Justin Bieber was still very young. He was, he was sort of like all over the place personality wise. He seemed to be changing radically. And it just goes to show like, you can't tell. And, and I'm not even saying right now like, this is, this is where it gets difficult. I'm not even saying right now, Justin Bieber is good soil, although I did right. Retweet his quote and did hashtag good soil. Almost aspirationally, right? But we can take a look at someone's life in retrospect and say, this person is bearing fruit, or this person is not bearing fruit. And, and that's really where this particular, um, type of soil goes. It's not so much the fruit, it's the sprout. And I think when we look at a situation like Kanye and, and. There's hopefully still a lot of life left for Kanye, and that means there's still hope for a con, a genuine conversion and bearing fruit that keeps with repentance that does not appear to be what had happened at the time. Right? He's gone totally off the rails at this point. So we pray for that. We hope, we hope for better things for him. Um, but. At the time, Kanye was, is he, he's going by Y now. I don't even know what to call him anymore. But Kanye was a sprout that grew up with great joy quickly. And what we found through time is that it appears that he, when he was, although maybe he fits better into the second, this next category that we'll have to push off till next week, I think. But either way, like he appeared to have sprouted, he appeared to have taken root and ultimately did not actually bear fruit. And that's the defining feature of these first three ones. It's not so much about what happens with the seed. Does it get in the ground? Does it not get in the grow? Does it sprouts, does it not sprout? It's ultimately about the fruitfulness, right? The final, the final phase of the parable, the final, um, the final type of soil is the one that produces fruit. So we'll get to that in detail, but that's what we need to think about. And again, like I said, it's not as though crisis saying like, all right, here's this checklist of ways to determine whether someone's conversion is correct, is true or not. Because we can't know that until after the fact and well after the fact. We also can't know that it's valid until after the fact. What I think this parable, broadly speaking, gets at is that we have to look at every situation and realize that there are these different possible outcomes. And although I don't know that this is explicitly part of the parable, it also sort of points us to the fact that like, because it's not a foregone conclusion about what's gonna happen, maybe there's also something we can do about it. Right? Right. Maybe when we realize someone might be on the rocky soil. Whether we, we have some reason to believe that or we just want to get out in front of that possibility, maybe there's still room to actually get in there and, and move the seed to a different soil, I guess might be a better way to use the metaphor is to, to just take the seed somewhere else or to till the soil, to get the rocks out of the soil. Although this is not talking about like rocks in the soil. It's talking about a layer, probably a layer of bedrock. Like Yes, exactly. Just under the surface. Jesse Schwamb: Right? So Tony Arsenal: there is an immutability about these, these different categories of, of people, and again, this is where like overinterpreting, the parable can get to be problematic, but we, we see that there are these categories, we can't necessarily know which one of these categories a person is in when they have some sort of outward expression of faith where they've received. I think we can tell the difference between that first category. Someone who just has not received the, the gospel at all, has not received the word of God at all, right? Like it's just bounced off of him. It's made no impact. I think we can see that that's a relatively straightforward, um, situation for us to assess. And of course we can't see someone's heart, but it's, it's usually pretty outwardly, readily available to us that they just have not received the word in any means. Right. When we get to these second two categories, that's not the case. We're talking about two different categories of people who have received the word and it has begun to sprout. It has begun, it actually has sprouted, not just begun to sprout, but it's sprouted. Um, I just think we need to be really careful to sort of not place someone in an immutable category until after we've seen what's gonna happen. Yes. Really across their whole life. Jesse Schwamb: Yes. [00:47:41] The Importance of Deep Roots in Faith Jesse Schwamb: I'm glad you brought that up because we really have to remember that in the last three instances, you cannot tell from the soil what the outcome will be. So it is a little bit, I'm with you, kind of a misnomer in the translation. This idea of like rocky soil. Yeah. If it were truly like rocky soil, the way that probably most of us in the Western think of it like soil mixed with gravel, right? They're probably, the sewer would be like, why would I throw it on there like that? That doesn't make any sense. Certainly again, if you're looking for that, that really fertile, well tilled ground, the one that looks promising, you wouldn't do that. So more than likely, I'm with you. We're talking about like a hired limestone layer that would've been like a few inches below, and as the sun would come down, my understanding is of course, like that limestone would heat up. It'd be like the perfect warm environment for like a seed to immediately like spring up with some hope. And that's exactly I think what Jesus is after here. It's this idea that the seed springs up immediately. People receive the message with joy. There's been no root or development to deeper moist soil though, because it doesn't exist. It gets blocked out. But inci incidentally, like the heat of that rock bed actually is the thing that causes it to germinate and produce at least a sprout really, really quickly. But as soon as like any kind of other heat comes upon it, because it cannot not grow deeper because it cannot set the roots, because it cannot get enough water from deep down, then it's going to be quick to die. I think we see this all the time. Maybe we even see this to some degree, not exclusively and in the same kind of magnitude in our own lives. But you know, we may listen to a sermon with pleasure while the impression produced in us is like only temporary, short-lived. You know, our hearts can be like that stony ground. Sometimes it may yield like a plentiful cop clap of warm feelings and like good resolutions and good vibes. How often do we hear that language? But all this time, there may be no deeply rooted work in our souls. And that first like cold blast of oppression or temptation may cause like all of that to go away. What I see interpret it from this particular group and, and this the one that follows it very much the same is like a conversion to religion. So here where this is where I firmly, like, I think we have a class, and this might trigger some people, but I'm gonna say it anyway. We have a class for this to me is deconstructionism. Yeah. And I think what I've, I've been helpful for me is to get outta my mind is that. I'm not sure that we have to be so concerned in this, this metaphor or this great parable about like what's the length of time here? So for instance, is it possible that somebody could be in this place where there is this hard layer of rock, which presents like a setting down of deep roots that could last like years on end. Yeah, where somebody has heard the gospel message has come into the life of the church and finds that this is generally a pleasant way to believe and to live and to express these ideals until maybe they have a strong voice somewhere or they're confronted with the fact that this, their message now is not very tolerant. And so as soon as there comes against them, this push that maybe what you're saying is too exclusive, that all of a sudden there really is a manifestation that there's no real root there. Yeah, there was no conversion. There was a conversion to religious principle and ideas and insomuch as those things didn't push too much against whatever objectives they had. Not even like going after what happens in the the third instance here with all the pleasures of life and all the temptations of the flesh, but just that there is some challenge. To what they believe and that it would be continually lived out in their actual lives, meaningful enough that it would impact behavior, change their mind, and continue to make them outspoken about the thing in which they're setting their roots into that if those things would cause the death of. That sprouts, then to me, that's where we find deconstruction isn't falling. And so in that case, again, it's comforting because it's not a matter of actual conversion as it were. It's not a matter of actual regeneration that hasn't actually occurred. There's plenty of reasons to come alongside and to give the gospel some kind of favor or to give it some kind of acquiescence because it's good on its own. There are lots of things that are good about it, but the rootedness in that is not merely in the outward manifestations of all the benefits of the gospel. It is getting Christ, as we've said. Yeah. And if we're not abiding in Christ, then we will necessarily die. In fact, Christ says elsewhere when he speaks to himself that even every bad branch that does not bear fruit, the father prunes and throws away. And so here we find that happening. It's, this is traumatic, it is dramatic, but this is where I think we see oftentimes Christians really get unnerved and sometimes it really, I think, rocks them when they see people who've had, like you said, Tony, like some professional faith. And I remember us talking about Kanye, and I remember us saying like, I think you and I were cautiously optimistic. We said like, this is fantastic. God does this very thing where he transforms people. And then we see in the long term, in the long run, the manifestation of that transformation, not in just merely as sinner's prayer or some expression of knowing something about the gospel intellectually, but the living it out so that the plant itself grows up in Christ to know of his great love, and then to share and abide in that love where it bears fruit. And so here I find this again, to be just very comforting because I think we see this a lot and our nerves, a lot of Christians, but I think Christ is giving an example here to say, do not be a unnerved by this. [00:53:10] Encouragement for Sowers and Believers Tony Arsenal: Yeah, maybe one last thought and then we, we can push pause until next week when we come back to this parable. Is. I think it's, there's two words in this, um, this little, these two verses here that really stick out to me. There's the, the word immediately, right? Yes. He immediately receives it with joy. That word is repeated later on when he immediately falls away. So there is a, um, there's a, a sense of suddenness to this, to this kind of, I'm using quotation marks if you're not watching the YouTube to this quotation or this, um, conversion experience, right? I think we all know people who have kind of the slow burn conversion experience, right? That's not to say that those people may not be, um, on hard soil or rocky soil. Right. But the, the person that we're talking about in that crisis talking about is the person who hears the word and has every appearance of an outward, radical, outward conversion of joy. And then joy is the second word that that shows up here. One of the things that drives me crazy, you know, maybe just to, to riff off the, the deconstruction, um, narrative a little bit is it drives me crazy when some sort of, um, high profile Christian falls away from the faith or deconstructs or falls, you know, into deep sin and then abandons the faith or has a tragedy happened in their life and whatever reason they abandon the faith. There's this tendency particularly among, I, I think sort of. I don't know if like, there still are young restless reform Christians out there, but I think it's still a valid descriptor. Kind of like the, I'm trying not to be pejorative, but sort of like the surface level tulip is what I call them, like the five point Calvinists who like heard an RC sprawl sermon one time and think that they are like the def, they're the definition of Calvinism. There's this tendency among that demographic that when somebody falls away from the faith to act as though everything about their experience of Christianity was somehow like an act like it was a, it was a, it was a play they were putting on, they were deceiving everybody. Right. That's that's not real. It's not the, it's not the way that it actually works and, and. I think the, um, the flip side and the caution for us in that is that just because our experience of Christianity and our, our experience of being in the faith feels so genuine and real and rooted, we should also recognize that like it felt real and genuine and rooted for Derek Webb or for name, name your key, you know, Joshua Harris, name your big profile deconstruction person of the day. Um, there's a caution there for us and I think that's the caution here in this, um, in this, I dunno, part of the parable is. Just as this is saying, the reason that the person falls away immediately is because there is no root in them yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, he immediately falls away, right? The cause of this is because there is no route that ca

    The WorldView in 5 Minutes
    Voddie Baucham died, Man who shot at ICE Dallas facility sought to bring terror, Trump now wants Russia to return all captured Ukraine territory

    The WorldView in 5 Minutes

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 10:05


    It's Friday, September 26th, A.D. 2025. 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 Chinese Communist court upholds prison sentence of 10 Christians On September 11, a court in the Inner Mongolian region of North China upheld a ruling that sentenced 10 Christians to prison for distributing legally published Bibles, asserting that their actions equated to an illegal business operation, reports International Christian Concern. The believers were arrested back in 2021 for purchasing legally published Bibles and reselling them at a significantly lower price as a means of evangelism. Although the Bibles were published legally, the court deemed the distribution of them illegal because the house church that the distributors belonged to was not officially registered with the Communists. Additionally, the church refused to join the government-controlled Three-Self Patriotic Movement church. Trump now wants Russia to return all captured Ukraine territory After campaigning on ending the Russia-Ukraine war, President Donald Trump had repeatedly stated any negotiations to end the war will likely include Ukraine ceding captured territory to Russia, reports American Family Radio News. However, there's now been an about-face, a big one, that sounds like Trump now supports a military counter-offensive by Ukraine.  This week, President Trump stated that Ukraine, with help from NATO and the European Union, can retake all territory it has lost to Russia and restore Ukraine to its “original form.” Russian President Vladimir Putin has ignored Trump's efforts to bring peace to the region even after face-to-face talks in Alaska earlier this summer. Mark Montgomery, a former rear admiral, believes that Putin has embarrassed and irritated Trump. Listen to this soundbite from Washington Watch with Tony Perkins. MONTGOMERY: “President Trump was disrespected by President Putin. After every meeting, Putin would go back to Russia and would immediately engage in significant hypersonic missile strikes on civilian personnel in Ukraine, and as well as engaging in military kinetic actions along the front line, ignoring the president's request for Vladimir to stop, ignoring the president's request to come to the negotiating table. “I think President Trump gave President Putin all the wiggle room he could. And then he had enough.” Former FBI Director James Comey indicted on federal charges Federal prosecutors on Thursday announced they had won an indictment of former FBI Director James Comey in federal courts, reports The Epoch Times. Comey was indicted by a grand jury in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia on charges of making a false statement and obstruction in a criminal case. In a post on X, Attorney General Pam Bondi wrote, “No one is above the law. Today's indictment reflects this Department of Justice's commitment to holding those who abuse positions of power accountable for misleading the American people. We will follow the facts in this case.” Panic seizes Pentagon over Hegseth's meeting of all generals Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has ordered all top U.S. military commanders, worldwide, to convene at the Quantico, Virginia Marine Corps Base next week for a no-notice meeting with no published agenda. To call this unprecedented might be an understatement. The order covers about 800 general officers and admirals, and each of the attendees is directed to bring their senior enlisted adviser with them, reports RedState.com. It's also very likely that Hegseth will want to discuss the epidemic of non-compliance and malicious compliance wreaking havoc on the policies he and his team are attempting to put into place. For instance, trans members of the military are still being promoted even though they have been ordered discharged. DEI training continues despite Hegseth's order banning such nonsense. The Judge Advocate General Corps, the stronghold of everything leftist in all services, survived an early decapitation attack and roared back more woke and more disloyal and vindictive than ever. They openly discuss how to circumvent Department of War directives and frequently refer to their commanders who are following lawful orders from the Secretary of War as "nazis" and "war criminals." Man who shot at ICE Dallas facility sought to bring terror The 29-year-old man, Joshua Jahn, who opened fire on a Dallas Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility from a nearby roof on September 24th left behind handwritten notes at his home in Oklahoma that shared a motive for his attack – to terrorize ICE employees, reports Fox4News.com. He killed one detainee, and injured two other detainees before taking his own life. According to FBI Director Kash Patel, Jahn downloaded a document titled "Dallas County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management," which contained a list of Department of Homeland Security facilities. He also conducted multiple searches of ballistics and the "Charlie Kirk Shot Video" between September 23 and September 24. Jahn allegedly left handwritten notes behind that read in part, "Hopefully, this will give ICE agents real terror, to think, ‘Is there a sniper with [armor piercing] rounds on that roof?'" At a press conference, FBI agent-in-charge Joseph Rothrock said, "Jahn specifically intended to kill ICE agents. He fired at transport vehicles carrying ICE personnel, federal agents, and detainees. He also fired multiple shots into the windows of the office building, where numerous ICE employees do their jobs every day." The Department of Homeland Security is also increasing security at all ICE facilities across America. Christian leader Voddie Baucham died at 56 And finally, Voddie Baucham, an American pastor, author, and educator, died yesterday at the age of 56. TimesNowNews.com reports that Baucham had dealt with serious health issues in the past. In February 2021, he experienced “full-blown heart failure.” The following month, he underwent successful heart surgery. Later, doctors found another blockage, which led to a quadruple bypass surgery. On Facebook, his ministry wrote, “We are saddened to inform friends that our dear brother, Voddie Baucham, Jr., has left the land of the dying and entered the land of the living. Earlier today, after suffering an emergency medical incident, he entered into his rest and the immediate presence of the Savior whom he loved, trusted, and served since he was converted as a college student. Please pray for Bridget, their [nine] children, and [three] grandchildren.” Indeed, I urge you to send a sympathy card to Bridget Baucham, c/o Voddie Baucham Ministries,1020 S. Ferdon, Crestview, FL 32536. Voddie served for nine years as Dean of Theology at African Christian University in Lusaka, Zambia and was the Founding President of Founders Seminary in Cape Coral, Florida. Known for his passionate preaching, teachings on faith, and books on Christian living, Baucham left a deep mark on the Evangelical community. His books included Family Driven Faith: Doing What It Takes to Raise Sons and Daughters Who Walk with God, Family Shepherds: Calling and Equipping Men to Lead Their Homes, and Fault Lines: The Social Justice Movement and Evangelicalism's Looming Catastrophe. Listen to Voddie Baucham explain how Ephesians 6:1 has been turned upside down by the world. BAUCHAM: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. We've turned this on its head. “First of all, your children are not yours. ‘Children, obey the state, for this is right.' We've even moved from that. “'Children obey your feelings, for this is right.' And then on top of that. We say, ‘Parents, obey your children's feelings, for this is right.' So, if Johnny comes to you and says that Johnny is now Susie, it is your job not to instruct Johnny that he's not Susie, but to instruct Susie that you affirm her as Susie. That's your job. “Your job is to obey, to submit to what it is that your child says that he or she is. Sounds like the same twisted logic of the evangelical feminist.” Psalm 116:15 says, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” Watch Voddie's last talk in which he addressed Charlie Kirk's death at New St. Andrews College. Close And that's The Worldview on this Friday, September 26th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

    Text Talk
    Mark 3: Jesus's Family

    Text Talk

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 16:51


    Mark 3:31-35 (NKJV)Andrew, Isack, and Edwin discuss who Jesus's real family was and what that means for us as we consider our true families.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=22730The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

    A Burden For The Times
    Workin' 9-to-5

    A Burden For The Times

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 44:12


    The nine-to-five workday doesn't just shape our jobs—it's reshaping our churches, communities, and even our view of discipleship. In this episode, we wrap up our Labor Day series by asking:How has the nine-to-five mindset influenced the way churches operate?Has consumerism and corporate structure replaced community and discipleship?What does the Bible say about work as worship, and how does Sabbath fit into our rhythms?From sunrise photography to corporate professionalism, from Sabbath trust to consumerist tendencies, we wrestle with how Christians can live faithfully in a culture dominated by the grind. Join us as we reflect on how to see our work—and our worship—through the eyes of our Creator. Thanks for Listening! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

    Tent Talk with Nancy McCready
    Archive Episode #972 - Mind of Christ (Part 4)

    Tent Talk with Nancy McCready

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 27:09


    Have you ever thought: “There have to be more people living inside of you than just you? If I'm new...why do I keep thinking old thoughts?” Have you fallen for the “positive thinking trap” and yet you're still struggling? Are those you love and minister to still trapped in endless cycles of sin, depression and defeat? Are you a leader that has faithfully taught the word of God and yet your church still doesn't mature in their thinking? Then this series is for you! Check out Episodes 1-4 as Nancy shares the cutting truth of The Mind of Christ! Let's build a personal and corporate culture of discipleship! Thanks for Listening! I hope that after listening to The Tent Talk Podcast, you'll want to start discussions with your team or small group. These resources can help guide your discipleship journey to maturity and destiny with the Father: LINKS The Devotional Podcast with Nancy McCready https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2hHjwQ_3Qrp1rhbR9nu68wnBtQY0IHzc The Producer's Way School theproducersway.com Nancy's book, From Trauma to Trust www.amazon.com/dp/B096ZML6R3/ JOIN THE CONVERSATION Every journey begins with a conversation, join us on social media to get started! Facebook: www.facebook.com/nbmccready Instagram: www.instagram.com/nbmccready/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@nancymccreadyministries SUBSCRIBE Like what you hear? Subscribe to Tent Talk with Nancy McCready so you don't miss an episode! nancymccready.com/podcast/ ABOUT NANCY MCCREADY Nancy McCready is redefining discipleship across nations, cultures, and denominations. Through Nancy McCready Ministries, she partners with leaders to build deep, transformative discipleship cultures that provoke people to walk in freedom and live as mature sons of the Father. Her powerful message comes from her journey of overcoming abuse, addiction, and self-destruction to walk in true freedom. She now dedicates her life to helping others grow in intimacy with the Father and live unto Him. ABOUT TENT TALK PODCAST Tent Talk with Nancy McCready is a listener-funded podcast dedicated to helping Christians along their journey of a deeper walk with Christ. With the support of donors like you, we are able to help our listeners gain a deeper spiritual understanding and connection with the Father. Thank you for your support of the Tent Talk Podcast! nancymccready.com/giving/ Brought to you by Nancy McCready Ministries nancymccready.com/

    Plugged In Entertainment Reviews
    Movie Review: Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie

    Plugged In Entertainment Reviews

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 2:00


    While Gabby’s Dollhouse tells a tale about learning how to play again, some of its magical moments may leave Christians uncomfortable. Read the full review. If you've enjoyed listening to Plugged In Reviews, please give us your feedback.

    Under God | With Pastor Stephen Martin
    Military Wokeness and Antifa's Terrorist Designation | Under God Ep 208

    Under God | With Pastor Stephen Martin

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 38:55


    Listen as Pastor Nate and Pastor Daniel uncover shocking revelations from inside the U.S. military. Daniel shares his firsthand infiltration of a Marine Corps training that labels Christian men as potential "insider threats" simply for holding biblical values.Hear how woke ideology has infected our armed forces - from transgender integration to racial discrimination against white officers. Plus, discover why Antifa's new terrorist designation matters for justice and what really happened with Jimmy Kimmel's cancellation.Perfect for your commute or workout, this episode equips you with biblical wisdom to understand the cultural battles facing Christians in America's institutions.You'll Learn:✅ The truth about military "insider threat" training targeting conservatives✅ How to recognize and resist institutional wokeness✅ Why standing firm in faith matters more than everSubscribe for new episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7 AM CT.

    The Common Good Podcast
    Perspectives on How We As Christians Should View Politics

    The Common Good Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 34:42


    AAA survey shows 96% of people drive aggressively For Those Who Love Jesus, Death Is a Temporary Separation - Eternal Perspective Ministries See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Wretched Radio
    HATE SPEECH OR FOOLISH SPEECH? THINKING ABOUT FREE SPEECH FROM A BIBLICAL POV

    Wretched Radio

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 54:58


    Segment 1 • Todd and Dr. Greg Gifford discussing mental health and transformation at KSU. • Free speech vs. foolish speech—where's the line? • Jimmy Kimmel suspended—raises questions about consistency in “hate speech” rules. Segment 2 • Campus reactions to the Charlie Kirk assassination. • Free speech protects almost everything short of inciting violence—but misuse of it is rampant. • Where should Christians stand when free speech clashes with biblical wisdom? Segment 3 • Don Lemon labels the Charlie Kirk memorial “Christian Nationalism.” • What actually is Christian Nationalism, and was the memorial an example? • Agreeing on essentials unites us—but should secondary differences divide us? Segment 4 • Todd jokes about being a “fool”—but what kind? • Quick guide: explaining free speech and Christian Nationalism simply. • Ilhan Omar spreads false claims about Charlie Kirk. • Erika Kirk: she doesn't want the sole decision on the murderer's death penalty. ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!

    The Living Waters Podcast
    Ep. 357 - When AI Tells a Big Lie

    The Living Waters Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 63:28 Transcription Available


    Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar welcome guest Cal Smith from AIG Canada to discuss artificial intelligence and the lies it may tell. Cal, a longtime speaker on creation, shifted to video and social media during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his ministry has been effective. Recently, he started experimenting with AI, producing authentic, minimally edited video series that only include a hologram overlay. Mark shares his initial amazement at AI's capabilities, but the guys agree that fact-checking is crucial. Elon Musk has warned that AI could be more dangerous than nuclear war, while surveys show that Gen Z is increasingly using it for therapy and relationships. This raises the question: what authority are young people giving to AI?Cal explains that AI is only as good as the data it's trained on. He emphasizes that, at its core, it's still just a chatbot and cannot be taken at face value. Though sophisticated systems can be accurate, they still slip. Cal sets strict parameters—mathematics, logic, and observational science—when engaging with AI. Within those boundaries, he finds that AI reaches conclusions opposite to evolution; yet, when parameters are removed, its answers revert to mainstream assumptions. For Cal, this underscores the importance of critical thinking, a gift from God that Christians are called to preserve. The danger lies not in AI itself but in people handing over discernment.The guys reflect on how society has shifted from books to Google, then to YouTube, and now to AI, with each shift eroding critical thinking. Christianity, they note, has always been a thinking faith, and believers must evaluate information carefully, grounding truth in Scripture. Cal wants his videos to show people that answers must be known for themselves, not outsourced to technology. He notes that the main pushback has focused on concerns about AI's dangers, including skepticism from atheists and non-believers regarding the use of parameters in his conversations. His approach reveals bias, highlights contradictions, and directs viewers back to the authority of God's Word.For those concerned about AI, Cal recommends trying it out to better understand the tool. He recognizes its positive aspects: research, pattern recognition, and handling mundane tasks. He warns against trusting it entirely, as it reflects human bias. The guys conclude that AI, like a vast library, is only as useful as the person using it. Ultimately, logic supports Christian truth, but salvation and transformation come only through the gospel. Stay sharp, keep hearts rooted in Scripture, and use tools wisely without losing critical thinking or faith.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

    Knowing Faith
    Should Christians Deconstruct? with Ian Harber

    Knowing Faith

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 40:06


    Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley are joined by Ian Harber to have a conversation about deconstruction in the Christian faith. Questions Covered in This Episode:Is deconstruction good?What is deconstruction?What are some common examples?What is your personal story of deconstruction?How is your faith different from what it was before your deconstruction journey?Is there such a thing as healthy and unhealthy doubt?How can we be a good companion to those going through a season of deconstruction?It seems like many instances of deconstruction are tied in some way to the desire to dismiss or circumvent the clear biblical teaching on sexuality and/or gender - am I off on this? If not, how does that shape our engagement with those deconstructing?What would you want to tell someone who is going through a deconstruction journey?Helpful Definitions:Deconstruction: Is a crisis of faith that leads to the questioning of core doctrines and the untangling of cultural ideologies that settles in a faith different from before.Guest Bio:Ian Harber is the Director for Communications and Marketing at Mere Orthodoxy, author of Walking Through Deconstruction, and a graduate of the Deep Discipleship Program. With a B.A. in Communication Theory from Dallas Baptist University, he has done marketing for nonprofits, churches, and small businesses for 10 years. Ian lives in Denton, TX with his wife Katie, and two sons, Ezra and Alastair. Follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Threads.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:1 Corinthians 3:12-15“Walking Through Deconstruction” with Ian HarberDeep Discipleship Program Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteOur Sister Podcast:Tiny TheologiansSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Pray the Word with David Platt
    Longing to See Jesus (Luke 2:26)

    Pray the Word with David Platt

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 5:11


    In this episode of Pray the Word on Luke 2:26, David Platt teaches us to live with eager anticipation of Jesus face to face.Listen to our newest podcast, Everyday Radical!Explore more content from Radical.

    The Natasha Crain Podcast
    How Have Godly People Been Persuaded to Let Ungodliness Reign? with Bill Federer

    The Natasha Crain Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 76:33


    How did we get to a point in America where Christians often believe that the most godly thing they can do is stay out of politics? How did we get to a point where we've accepted the lie that separation of church and state is a guiding rule keeping our faith out of the public square? History gives us a lot of the answers. My guest today is Bill Federer, a nationally known speaker, best-selling author, and president of Amerisearch, Inc., a publishing company dedicated to researching America's noble heritage. In this episode, Bill gives us a fascinating flyover of the history we need to know to understand how we got to this moment.MENTIONED IN THE SHOW:Bill's website and resources: https://americanminute.com/Bill's book Silence Equals Consent: https://www.amazon.com/Silence-Equals-Consent-omission-Forever/dp/1736959077Unshaken Conference tickets: www.unshakenconference.com

    In the Market with Janet Parshall
    Hour 2: Why Christians Need To Answer

    In the Market with Janet Parshall

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 44:58 Transcription Available


    When we fully understand the implications of the resurrection, we start realizing the power of Christ in our life. Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, a Christian apologist and scholar, will examine the latest archaeological and textual findings, offer tangible proof that Jesus really rose from the dead, and explain why it matters. Join us to learn how to better ‘contend for the faith’.Become a Parshall Partner: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/inthemarket/partnersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    CrossroadsET
    Concerns Over Far-Left Violence Grow; Media Accused of Falsifying Data

    CrossroadsET

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 71:22


    Concerns are growing about far-left violence in the United States. This includes the recent assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, mass shootings targeting Christians, and other incidents—some of which led to the new designation of Antifa as a terrorist organization.Many news outlets have been accused of framing an opposite narrative—that most of the violence is coming from the right. Investigations reveal that this view may have been based on falsified data.We'll discuss these topics and others in this episode of Crossroads.Views expressed in this video are opinions of the host and guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

    Martyn Lloyd-Jones Sermon Podcast
    The Deceitfulness of Sin

    Martyn Lloyd-Jones Sermon Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025


    Romans 7:10-11 — Sin is deceiving, but just how does it deceive? Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches the sermon on Romans 7:10–11 titled “The Deceitfulness of Sin” and further dissects just how powerful and persuasive sin can be in a Christian's life. Paul confirmed in his letter to the Romans that no one can find life by the law and instead can actually find death. This is because sin is death and the law shows the sin in lives. Paul is careful to clarify that the law is good as long as it is used lawfully. However, despite one's best efforts, sin uses the law and condemns. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains four ways in which sin deceives: it makes one feel that God is against them; it makes them feel that the law is unreasonable in its demands; it praises the sinner and makes them think highly of themselves; and it even deceives about sin itself. In order to be vigilant, Christians need to ensure that they are not easily persuaded by the powerfulness and deceitfulness of sin.

    To Every Man An Answer
    To Every Man an Answer 9/25/2025

    To Every Man An Answer

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 56:19


    2:08 - Daniel 3:25, Who is the 'Son of a God' in this verse? / 6:33 - Where do Christians spend eternity? / 13:46 - Should I be in a church where the pastor says we'll go to hell if we don't worship on Saturday? / 24:30 - Does God have a commission of multiple sons in Genesis 6? / 41:58 - Followup questions on the Nephilim.

    Neil Oliver's Love Letter to the British Isles
    Neil Oliver Monologue: They Want Wars!!!

    Neil Oliver's Love Letter to the British Isles

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 9:46


    ‘Christians are first in the CROSS-HAIRS & the slaughter in Syria is being HIDDEN'To help support this Podcast & get exclusive videos every week sign up to Neil Oliver on Patreon.comhttps://www.patreon.com/neiloliver To Donate go to Neil's Website:https://www.neiloliver.com To Shop:https://neil-oliver.creator-spring.com YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@Neil-Oliver Rumble site – Neil Oliver Official:https://rumble.com/c/c-6293844 Instagram - NeilOliverLoveLetter:https://www.instagram.com/neiloliverloveletter Podcasts:Season 1: Neil Oliver's Love Letter To The British IslesSeason 2: Neil Oliver's Love Letter To The WorldAvailable on all the usual providershttps://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/neil-olivers-love-letter-to-the-british-isles #NeilOliver #christians #christianity #Trump #Starmer #Syria #Ahmedal-Sharaa #AbuMohammadal-julan #history #neiloliverGBNews #travel #culture #ancient #historyfact #explore Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Wisdom for the Heart
    Rewriting the World's View of God

    Wisdom for the Heart

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 28:34


    What do your neighbors, coworkers, or classmates think about God? Often, their perception of Him is shaped by the Christians they know. In 1 Timothy 3:7, Paul reminds believers that a good reputation with outsiders is essential—not for personal recognition, but to represent Christ well. In this episode of Wisdom for the Heart, Stephen Davey examines biblical principles for building a trustworthy and godly reputation in the community. Drawing from Ephesians 4 and real-life stories, Stephen shows how everyday integrity, diligence, and kindness can rewrite someone's view of God, His church, and the gospel. You'll see how Daniel's faithfulness in Babylon and Joseph's wisdom in Egypt brought blessing to unbelieving nations. And you'll learn practical ways to bring that same blessing to your workplace, neighborhood, or school. If you've ever wondered how to make your faith visible in a skeptical world—or how to represent Christ well outside the church walls—this lesson will challenge and encourage you to take your Christianity public in ways that honor the Lord and invite others to know Him. Stephen Davey's newest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

    The Biblical Mind
    Pharisees, Torah, and Sacrifice: What We Miss When We Misread the Law (Paul Sloan) Ep. #219

    The Biblical Mind

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 47:10


    Did Jesus come to cancel the Law of Moses—or fulfill it? In this compelling episode, Dr. Paul Sloan joins Dru Johnson to challenge one of the most persistent misunderstandings in modern Christianity: the idea that Jesus and Paul opposed the Torah. Drawing from his book Jesus and the Law of Moses, Sloan explains how legalism, misunderstanding of impurity, and modern Christian readings of Paul have distorted our view of the biblical law. Instead of a rigid checklist of 613 rules, the Torah was a wisdom-guided, relational framework that assumed the realities of sin, forgiveness, and impurity—and offered ways to address them. They explore how Jesus engaged in sophisticated legal reasoning, why Paul continued to participate in the temple sacrificial system even after his conversion, and why the “burden” of the law has been misunderstood. Sloan also critiques how Pharisees are caricatured as villains, with damaging theological consequences—especially for how Christians view modern Jews and Judaism. This episode brings clarity to what Jesus and Paul were really doing with the law—and why recovering this perspective is crucial for theology, biblical interpretation, and interfaith understanding today. To get your copy of Jesus And The Law Of Moses: https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/products/9781540966384_jesus-and-the-law-of-moses We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/give For more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/ Social Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThought Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthought Threads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthought X: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThought Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.org Chapters: 00:00 Understanding the Law and Jesus' Perspective 02:22 Hurdles in Understanding the Law 05:13 Legalism and Its Misinterpretations 08:20 The Case for Jesus and Paul Abolishing the Torah 11:35 Exploring Dietary Laws and Their Implications 14:33 The Nature of Law and Forgiveness 17:31 Ritual Purity and Its Misconceptions 20:24 Pharisees: Villains or Misunderstood Figures? 23:25 Modern Implications of Ancient Interpretations 24:43 Paul's Observance of the Torah 25:33 The Role of Sacrifices in Early Christianity 31:40 Jesus and the Sacrificial System 34:04 Cultural Critique: Rabbinics and Jesus' Teachings

    Culture Proof with Wil and Meeke Addison
    The Demonic Design of AI

    Culture Proof with Wil and Meeke Addison

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 45:59


    Be sure to visit cultureproof.net Please consider supporting the Culture Proof Podcast. We aim to bring engaging content that will challenge and equip Christians to live according to the Straight Edge of Scripture. All gifts are tax deductible. Our Address is: S.E. Ministries PO Box 1269 Saltillo MS, 38866   Episode sponsors: BJUPress Homeschool We Heart Nutrition – Use the code CULTUREPROOF for 20% off Accountable2You – Try free for 10 days Culture Proof Listeners  THANKS!   Culture Proof Podcast Theme song "Believers" courtesy of Path of Revelation    

    Bill Handel on Demand
    Christians Claiming Divine Permission to Rule

    Bill Handel on Demand

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 25:22 Transcription Available


    Neil and Amy are in for the vacatioining Bill Handel. Neil finds himself agreeing with Don Lemon's opinion (that's a first...)  about the Charlie Kirk Memorial being about Christians claiming divine permission to rule, leading to commentary that explores the differences between politics and politicians, and the twisted role religion is starting to play in all of it. Also, by 2040, the majority of new US homeowners will be Hispanic. And LAX drops in global airport rankings, but the CEO believes in the future. 

    The WorldView in 5 Minutes
    Typhoon prompts 2 million Chinese to evacuate, False prophet had predicted end of the world by 9/24, Most Americans believe we're born without sin nature

    The WorldView in 5 Minutes

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025


    It's Thursday, September 25th, A.D. 2025. 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 Jonathan Clark The martyrdom of 1,624 Christians A Vatican commission has documented the stories of 1,624 Christians who died for their faith over the past 25 years. The stories cover Christians from all denominations. Of the cases, 643 were in Sub-Saharan Africa, 357 in Asia and Oceania, 304 in the Americas, 277 in the Middle East and the Maghreb, and 43 in Europe.  Archbishop Fabio Fabene is the head of the commission. He noted that “Martyrdom has existed in every age of the Church, but perhaps now more than in the past, many surrender their lives in order not to betray the message of Christ.” Typhoon prompts 2 million Chinese to evacuate Typhoon Ragasa made landfall in China yesterday.  Nearly two million people evacuated southern China ahead of the storm. The typhoon is equivalent to a Category 5 hurricane, making it the world's most powerful storm this year.  The typhoon left a path of destruction in the Philippines and Hong Kong and killed at least 17 people in Taiwan.  Oracle to buy Chinese-owned TikTok to allay security concerns Speaking of China, officials from the country reached an agreement with leaders from the United States last week about the Chinese-owned app TikTok. According to the deal, the tech company Oracle will lead a U.S.-backed acquisition of TikTok's assets in America. This is part of the Trump administration's efforts to address national security concerns of China's control over TikTok.    Listen to comments from U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. GREER: “We were very focused on Tiktok and making sure that it was a deal that is fair from the Chinese and completely respects US national security concerns. And that's the deal we reached.” False prophet had predicted end of the world by September 24th Meanwhile on TikTok, claims that the rapture was supposed to have occurred in the last two days went viral this week. The reactions came in response to a video from a South African man named Joshua Mhlakela. He claimed to have a vision that Jesus would return on the 23rd or 24th of September.  I guess he was wrong! The hashtag #rapturenow on TikTok has hundreds of thousands of videos. In the wake of the false predictions, Rev. Franklin Graham called people to turn to Christ, not panic. He wrote on Facebook, “There's no question, Jesus Christ will return—but we don't know when. Jesus Himself tells us, ‘But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of Heaven, but My Father only' (Matthew 24:36)”  Graham concluded, “Surrender your life to Him—this is the preparation that will count.” Chicago dropped charges against 3 street preachers The American Center for Law and Justice announced that a court in Chicago dropped charges against three street preachers this month.  In the case, police arrested three young men for peacefully preaching the Gospel near Chicago's Millennium Park. After six months of court battles, the judge recently dismissed the case.  The ACLJ wrote on Facebook, “Far-Left cities are arresting preachers for sharing the Gospel. We just filed a brief at the U.S. Supreme Court to defend their religious liberty. Help stop the far Left's attack on preachers. Sign our petition.”  You can sign that petition through a link in our transcript today at TheWorldview.com.  Texas law prohibits manufacture or distribution of abortion kill pill Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott signed the Woman and Child Protection Act into law last Wednesday.  The law makes it illegal to manufacture or distribute abortion-inducing drugs in the Lone Star State. It also bans mailing such drugs to or from any person or location in the state. The chemical abortion business has surged after many states passed anti-abortion laws. For example, ever since Texas protected babies in the womb after six weeks gestation, it has seen nearly 20,000 abortion kill pills mailed into the state annually. Most Americans believe we're born without sin nature And finally, Lifeway Research and Ligonier Ministries released their latest State of Theology study. A majority of U.S. adults strongly embraced ideas like the Trinity, God's perfection and unchangeableness, and marriage as the union of one man and one woman.  However, a majority of Americans also strongly agreed that everyone is born innocent in the eyes of God and strongly disagreed that even the smallest sin deserves eternal damnation.  Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research, noted, “When a clear majority of Americans think God is flexible when it comes to religion, it's not surprising that agreement with some teachings in the Bible does not translate to accepting all biblical teaching. Americans want the same flexibility they think God has, even if that contradicts other beliefs they have and how God is revealed in Scripture.” James 1:17 reminds us, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Thursday, September 25th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

    From the MLJ Archive on Oneplace.com
    The Deceitfulness of Sin

    From the MLJ Archive on Oneplace.com

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 50:04


    Romans 7:10-11 — Sin is deceiving, but just how does it deceive? Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones preaches the sermon on Romans 7:10–11 titled “The Deceitfulness of Sin” and further dissects just how powerful and persuasive sin can be in a Christian's life. Paul confirmed in his letter to the Romans that no one can find life by the law and instead can actually find death. This is because sin is death and the law shows the sin in lives. Paul is careful to clarify that the law is good as long as it is used lawfully. However, despite one's best efforts, sin uses the law and condemns. Dr. Lloyd-Jones explains four ways in which sin deceives: it makes one feel that God is against them; it makes them feel that the law is unreasonable in its demands; it praises the sinner and makes them think highly of themselves; and it even deceives about sin itself. In order to be vigilant, Christians need to ensure that they are not easily persuaded by the powerfulness and deceitfulness of sin. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29

    Daily in the Word
    The Biblical Account of Creation - Part 1

    Daily in the Word

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 25:09


    Gender identity, the origin of the universe, the sanctity of life, the cry for justice—the debate seems endless. If there ever was a time for Christians to understand and communicate God's truth about controversial and polarizing issues, it is now. Believers must develop convictions based on research, reason, and biblical truth. In this series, Avoiding Confusion, we will discover what the Bible has to say about the challenges we face and how we can communicate our convictions with love and respect.

    Crosswalk.com Devotional
    Go Ahead and Enjoy Your Life

    Crosswalk.com Devotional

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 5:39


    Christian joy isn’t something to feel guilty about—it’s a gift from God. In Go Ahead and Enjoy Your Life, Whitney Hopler reflects on Ecclesiastes 9:7 and reminds us that God has already approved the simple pleasures that bring gladness to our hearts. From meals with friends to family adventures, enjoying life is part of our spiritual walk. Discover how embracing joy in everyday moments deepens your faith, relieves stress, and opens your eyes to the wonder of God’s work around you. ✨ Highlights Ecclesiastes 9:7: God’s approval for us to enjoy life’s blessings Why Christians often feel guilty about rest, leisure, or enjoyment—and how to let go of that guilt Joy as a spiritual practice: how savoring meals, nature, and meaningful connections can draw us closer to God The difference between God-honoring enjoyment and reckless indulgence Practical ways to recognize God’s presence in joyful experiences How gratitude and delight strengthen your relationship with Him

    Wisdom for the Heart on Oneplace.com
    Rewriting the World's View of God

    Wisdom for the Heart on Oneplace.com

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 28:34


    What do your neighbors, coworkers, or classmates think about God? Often, their perception of Him is shaped by the Christians they know. In 1 Timothy 3:7, Paul reminds believers that a good reputation with outsiders is essential—not for personal recognition, but to represent Christ well. In this episode of Wisdom for the Heart, Stephen Davey examines biblical principles for building a trustworthy and godly reputation in the community. Drawing from Ephesians 4 and real-life stories, Stephen shows how everyday integrity, diligence, and kindness can rewrite someone's view of God, His church, and the gospel. You'll see how Daniel's faithfulness in Babylon and Joseph's wisdom in Egypt brought blessing to unbelieving nations. And you'll learn practical ways to bring that same blessing to your workplace, neighborhood, or school. If you've ever wondered how to make your faith visible in a skeptical world—or how to represent Christ well outside the church walls—this lesson will challenge and encourage you to take your Christianity public in ways that honor the Lord and invite others to know Him. Stephen Davey's newest book, The Disciples Prayer, is available now. https://www.wisdomonline.org/store/view/the-disciples-prayer-hardback

    Text Talk
    Mark 3: Blasphemy

    Text Talk

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 16:33


    Mark 3:20-30 (ESV)Andrew, Isack, and Edwin discuss blasphemy of the Spirit and the unforgiven sin.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=22718The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

    Quantum - The Wee Flea Podcast
    Quantum 375 - The Islam Special

    Quantum - The Wee Flea Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 62:49


    This week, in our final Quantum (before we change to Beauty for Ashes) we take a deeper look at Islam.  Tom Holland on the incompatibility of Islam with Western liberal democracy;  Douglas Murray and James Orr on Muslim immigration;  Mousa Kadri;  Spencer Fildes on the new blasphemy law;   What happens if you leave Islam?  The genocide against Christians in Nigeria;  Country of the Week - Afghanistan;  Israel and Gaza;  Sharia Law in the UK;  Islam in Australia;  The Rape Gangs;  Islamic Education;  The Church and Islam- Andy Bannister and Sam Green; with music from Yusuf,  Led Zeppelin; Karl Jenkins; Afghan Christian Worship;  Bachman Turner Overdrive;  Bob Dylan; and Chris Tomlin. 

    The Salty Pastor
    How to Respond to the Assassination of Charlie Kirk

    The Salty Pastor

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 33:30


    The recent assassination of Charlie Kirk has rattled the nation, stirred grief, and raised urgent questions for Americans. In this episode, Pastor Doug reflects on how Christians should respond—ethically, spiritually, and with courage—in times of political violence. You'll be challenged to navigate mourning without hatred, to uphold truth without surrendering unity, and to lean into faith as a source of peace when everything seems shaken.Support the mission of the Salty Pastor podcast!Visit our donations page at https://pushpay.com/g/thesaltypastor to help us continue sharing truth with a world in need.Discussion Questions:When tragedy strikes in the public sphere, how can you prevent your response from being driven by anger or fear rather than by Christ's love?What does it look like to grieve and speak truth well—even when others are rushing to politicize or simplify the narrative?In what ways can the church model peace, justice, and forgiveness in such moments without compromising truth or justice?

    The Todd Huff Radio Show
    Politics Is Downstream From Culture But The Church Must Lead Upstream

    The Todd Huff Radio Show

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 42:03


    Today's Todd Huff Show is hosted by former Indiana State Senator John Crane, who reflects on his journey in politics and why he chose to voluntarily term-limit himself. Drawing from nearly a decade in public office, Crane explains why politics is always downstream from culture—and why the real battle lies upstream in the war of worldviews.Crane shares candid insights from his time in the Indiana Senate, including his conviction that Christians are called to be a catalyst for redemptive good in politics. He challenges the Church to stop treating politics as “too dirty” for engagement and instead equip the next generation of biblically grounded leaders to step boldly into the arena.Drawing on Romans 12 and his personal prayer life while serving in office, Crane emphasizes that leadership is intentional influence—and every believer is called to shine light where darkness seems strongest. He urges the Church to take political discipleship seriously, raising up leaders who are thoughtful, principled, and courageous.If politics is downstream, the Church must go upstream to shape culture with truth, conviction, and biblical clarity. As Crane makes clear: the mission field of politics desperately needs faithful leaders.Freedom Marketplace: https://freedommarketplace.net The Stack: https://www.toddhuffshow.com/stack-of-stuff Email: todd@toddhuffshow.comPhone: 317.210.2830Follow us on…Instagram: @toddhuffshowFacebook: The Todd Huff ShowTwitter: @toddhuffshowLinkedIn: The Todd Huff ShowTikTok: @toddhuffshowSupport Our Partners:https://www.toddhuffshow.com/partners Show Sponsors: https://www.mypillow.com/todd Promo Code: TODD Red, White, & Brand – Text TODD at 317-210-2830 for a 10% discount.SolTea – Heart health made simple. Two softgels a day. Promo code TODD saves 50% + free shipping.Full Suite Wealth – Build a legacy that lasts. Advanced strategies + legal guidance. Start at FullSuiteWealth.com.4:8 Financial – Purpose-centered planning & Biblically Responsible Investing. See how your portfolio aligns with your values. Visit 48Financial.com/Todd. 

    Ad Jesum per Mariam
    The Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary: Following Mary in Discovering Our Mission

    Ad Jesum per Mariam

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 14:37


    The Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary: Following Mary in Discovering Our Mission Today's Homily for the Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary . . . . . . begins with engaging young parishioners in a dialogue about their names and the significance behind them. The Homily explains that names are not just identifiers but carry meaning and vocation. Mary, though given the earthly name “Mary” by her parents, received a heavenly name from God through the angel Gabriel: “Full of Grace” or “Highly Favored One.” This new name revealed her mission as the dispenser of God's grace and the vessel through whom salvation entered the world. Mary's Unique Role The Homily then traces salvation history . . . promise, preparation, and fulfillment . . . showing Mary's unique role at the “fullness of time.” The Homily concludes with a call for all Christians to reflect on the meaning of their own names, especially those received at baptism and confirmation, as each name signifies a vocation and mission to live faithfully in today's world. Hear more and listen to this Meditation Media. The Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary: Following Mary in Discovering Our Mission --------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work The Madonna of the Roses: French Artist and Painter: William-Adolphe Bouguereau: 1903

    The Charlie Kirk Show
    Charlie's Global Fight for Free Speech with Dr. James Orr

    The Charlie Kirk Show

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 86:09


    Charlie's death wasn't just a tragedy in America. Christians and national patriots all around the world are mourning the loss of a man who has become a global icon to free speech and courage. Charlie's friend Dr. James Orr of Cambridge talks about the reaction in Britain, a country Charlie badly wanted to save, and they dive into the free speech debates that have erupted around the world. Tom Homan updates on a new left-wing terror attack against ICE.Support the show: http://www.charliekirk.com/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Glenn Beck Program
    Best of the Program | Guests: Rep. Chip Roy & Rob McCoy | 9/24/25

    The Glenn Beck Program

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 52:26


    Glenn discusses how America is entering a Bermuda Triangle of political violence, speech control, and uneven justice. Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) joins to discuss what we know about the shooting at an ICE facility in Dallas and how America needs to fix its violence issue. Turning Point Faith Co-Chair and pastor of Charlie Kirk Rob McCoy joins to discuss how South Korea arrested a pastor in what is being called a "targeted arrest" against Christians. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    The Glenn Beck Program
    Was the Texas ICE Facility Attack Political Violence? | Guests: Rep. Chip Roy & Rob McCoy | 9/24/25

    The Glenn Beck Program

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 130:28


    A shooting occurred at an ICE facility in Dallas that left multiple people injured and potentially killed, as well as the shooter, who appeared to have taken his own life. While more details of the shooting aren't known, Glenn lays out what we do know: The world has gone mad. Glenn goes through some of the recent radical leftists advocating for political violence. Jimmy Kimmel and his show, as much as he tries to convince you, are not a free-speech issue. Glenn previews another clip of his interview with British comedian Katie Hopkins, who shares how she was forced to lose her children and her home due to the British government targeting her for her speech. Glenn discusses how America is entering a Bermuda Triangle of political violence, speech control, and uneven justice. Glenn warns that if we don't escape this triangle soon, America will fall. Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) joins to discuss what we know about the shooting at an ICE facility in Dallas and how America needs to fix its violence issue. Turning Point Faith Co-Chair and pastor of Charlie Kirk Rob McCoy joins to discuss how South Korea arrested a pastor in what is being called a "targeted arrest" against Christians.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Mark Levin Podcast
    9/23/25 - Reviving Judeo-Christian Values in America

    Mark Levin Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 114:16


    On Tuesday's Mark Levin Show,  there's enthusiasm for Christian revivals and Judeo-Christian values, but there are those exploiting faith to divide Jews and Christians, including a blood libel invoked by Tucker Carlson during the Charlie Kirk memorial service.  People like Carlson, Candace Owens, Steve Bannon and others promote Jew hatred, aligning with Marxists, Islamists, and neo-Nazis rather than true conservatives like Presidents Trump or Reagan. The left-wing media amplifies them to smear patriotic Americans. We will not tolerate attacks on Christians, Jews, American WWII soldiers, or excuses for Hitler.  We're gearing up for a massive political battle in 2028 within the GOP. We will see who turns out the most votes and who builds the strongest coalitions. And then there's the general election, which cannot be won without constitutional conservatives. We've had enough of the grifters and neo-Nazis, the Marxists and Islamists, and their patsies and lapdogs in the media and politics. Also, the Jimmy Kimmel's suspension was never a battle over free speech or government control of speech.  Kimmel was dropped because he's a loathsome punk who made a highly inappropriate comment about the political assassination of Charlie Kirk.  The chairman of the FCC had no role in any of it, no matter what he said or did not say.  So, there's no 1st amendment at issue, despite the best efforts to concoct one.   Kimmel is being brought back because he's a liberal propagandist loved by Democrat Party hacks and the pressure they brought on ABC.  Afterward, Tommy Robinson has long been criticized by the media and political establishment, but many of us see him as someone who's bravely spoken out about uncomfortable truths. His warnings about radical Islam and unchecked migration were dismissed for years, yet recent events have shown he wasn't wrong to raise the alarm. Since the explosion of antisemitism after October 7, more British Jews are beginning to see the value in what he's been saying.  Finally,  Bill O'Reilly calls in to discuss his new book, Confronting Evil: Assessing the Worst of the Worst. This book is a warning to Americans not to look away but to actively choose right over wrong, lest evil grows more powerful. https://www.amazon.com/Confronting-Evil-Assessing-Worst/dp/1250374049 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey
    Ep 1245 | Witches Cast a Spell on Charlie Kirk. Can Christians Be Cursed?

    Relatable with Allie Beth Stuckey

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 65:47


    In this very special episode of "Relatable," Allie expresses how humbled and moved she is by the gospel spoken during her guest appearance on "The Charlie Kirk Show." She exposes a witches' curses placed on Charlie and the "Christian nationalist" smear delivered by a media that is more concerned with Jimmy Kimmel's canceling than Charlie Kirk's assassination. Last but not least, Allie invokes Charlie's own words that Christianity influenced the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence. Share the Arrows 2025 is on October 11 in Dallas, Texas! Go to ⁠http://sharethearrows.com⁠ for tickets now! Sponsored by: ⁠Carly Jean Los Angeles⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.carlyjeanlosangeles.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Good Ranchers⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.goodranchers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠EveryLife⁠: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.everylife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Buy Allie's new book, "Toxic Empathy: How Progressives Exploit Christian Compassion": ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://a.co/d/4COtBxy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ --- Timecodes: 1:02 - Allie on The Charlie Kirk Show25:31 - The Rapture31:27 - Witches Curse Charlie Kirk42:08 - Christian Nationalism58:30 - Evidence America is a Christian Nation --- Today's Sponsors: Good Ranchers — Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠GoodRanchers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and subscribe to any of their boxes (but preferably the Allie Beth Stuckey Box) to get free Waygu burgers, hot dogs, bacon, or chicken wings in every box for life. Plus, you'll get $40 off when you use code ALLIE at checkout. We Heart Nutrition — Get 20% off women's vitamins with We Heart Nutrition, and get your first bottle of their new supplement, Wholesome Balance; use code ALLIE at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.WeHeartNutrition.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Jase Medical — Go to ⁠Jase.com⁠ and enter code “ALLIE” at checkout for a discount on your order. Fellowship Home Loans — Fellowship Home Loans is a mortgage lending company that offers home financing solutions while integrating Christian values such as honesty, integrity, and stewardship. Go to ⁠https://fellowshiphomeloans.com/allie⁠ to get up to $500 credit towards closing costs when you finance with Fellowship Home Loans. Constitution Wealth Management — Let's discover what faithful stewardship looks like in your life. Visit Constitutionwealth.com/Allie for a free consultation. --- Episodes you might like: Ep 1211 | Israel: What Should Christians Think?... Ep 920 | Russell Moore, David French & the Fake Threat of Christian Nationalism | Guest: John Cooper Ep 1241 | The "Charlie Effect" Spreads Across the Country https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/relatable-with-allie-beth-stuckey/id1359249098?i=1000726956449 REPLAY | My 2019 Interview with Charlie Kirk https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/relatable-with-allie-beth-stuckey/id1359249098?i=1000726543411 Charlie Kirk: My Friend https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/relatable-with-allie-beth-stuckey/id1359249098?i=1000726366944 --- Buy Allie's book, You're Not Enough (& That's Okay): Escaping the Toxic Culture of Self-Love: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://alliebethstuckey.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Relatable merchandise – use promo code 'ALLIE10' for a discount: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shop.blazemedia.com/collections/allie-stuckey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Insight for Living Daily Broadcast
    Portrait of a Struggling Christian, Part 2

    Insight for Living Daily Broadcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 36:07


    It's impossible to ignore our sin. Our flesh continually battles the new nature given to us in Christ. While our internal struggle can feel discouraging, there is hope for victory through Jesus Christ our Lord. Further explore sin and the law from Romans 7 with Pastor Chuck Swindoll. Discover why Christians still battle sin after trusting in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Learn the truth you need to accept. Embrace the realistic portrait of a struggling Christian. Pursue new life in Christ, even as you fight against sin and your flesh.

    The Counsel of Trent
    #1083 - Should Christians Support "Cancel Culture"?

    The Counsel of Trent

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 21:58


    In this episode Trent takes on the debate over whether "Cancel Culture" is justified. To support this channel: https://www.patreon.com/counseloftrent [NEW] Counsel of Trent merch: https://shop.catholic.com/apologists-alley/trent-horn-resources/ Be sure to keep up with our socials! https://www.tiktok.com/@counseloftrent https://www.twitter.com/counseloftrent https://www.instagram.com/counseloftrentpodcast

    Freedomain with Stefan Molyneux
    6108 My Experience with CHRISTIANS! Twitter/X Space

    Freedomain with Stefan Molyneux

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 133:58


    Tuesday Afternoon X Space 23 September 2025In this X Space, Stefan examines his relationship with Christianity, specifically the ideas of forgiveness and accountability. Engaging with callers, he questions whether unconditional forgiveness is valid for unrepentant sinners, like murderers. Reflecting on his experiences, he challenges listeners to consider the balance between compassion and moral integrity, leaving them to ponder their own standards of forgiveness and personal accountability.SUBSCRIBE TO ME ON X! https://x.com/StefanMolyneuxFollow me on Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/@freedomain1GET MY NEW BOOK 'PEACEFUL PARENTING', THE INTERACTIVE PEACEFUL PARENTING AI, AND THE FULL AUDIOBOOK!https://peacefulparenting.com/Join the PREMIUM philosophy community on the web for free!Subscribers get 12 HOURS on the "Truth About the French Revolution," multiple interactive multi-lingual philosophy AIs trained on thousands of hours of my material - as well as AIs for Real-Time Relationships, Bitcoin, Peaceful Parenting, and Call-In Shows!You also receive private livestreams, HUNDREDS of exclusive premium shows, early release podcasts, the 22 Part History of Philosophers series and much more!See you soon!https://freedomain.locals.com/support/promo/UPB2025

    Catholic Answers Live
    #12384 How Can I Help a Friend Return to Faith? Eucharist and Conversion - Karlo Broussard

    Catholic Answers Live

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025


    “How can I help a friend return to faith?” This episode explores effective ways to engage with those who have drifted from belief, including a discussion on the significance of the Eucharist and its real presence. Additionally, we delve into early Christian practices and the role of a priest in consecration, offering a comprehensive look at faith and conversion. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:00 – He also has a friend that grew up in the Catholic church but has fallen away and does not believe in God any longer, how can he talk to her to try and encourage her that there is a God? 14:01 – What does the real presence in the Eucharist mean and why is it important, does God not exist elsewhere in the world? 22:05 – Did the early Christians offer sacrifices at the Jewish temple? 29:11 – In OCIA, would like some advice on properly processing the mixed emotions he is experiencing through his conversion? 40:55 – If a protestant believes in the real presence how do I explain that it needs to be consecrated from a valid priest? 46:16 – Why does the Eucharist have to be consumed repeatedly in order to receive eternal life, “like our fathers who ate the manna in the desert?” 52:08 – Why does it have to be a priest to consecrate the Eucharist?

    Pray the Word with David Platt
    Sharing God's Word (Luke 1:67)

    Pray the Word with David Platt

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 5:50


    In this episode of Pray the Word on Luke 1:67, David Platt encourages us to share God's Word in the power of the Spirit.Listen to our newest podcast, Everyday Radical!Explore more content from Radical.