Large Christian denomination in the southern United States
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In this throwback episode, we continue our revisit of H.B.'s 2023 conversation with Steve Gaines, Pastor Emeritus of Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee. After serving as Senior Pastor for 19 years, Dr. Gaines transitioned to his emeritus role in 2024. He also served as the President of the Southern Baptist Convention from 2016 to 2018. He continues to be a widely respected voice in the areas of prayer, evangelism, and pastoral ministry.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more resources at https://HBCharlesJr.comThe On Preaching Podcast is dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better.Hosted by H.B. Charles, Jr., Pastor-Teacher of Shiloh.Church in Jacksonville, Florida Produced by Luke Clayton and the team at IncreaseCreative.Co
In this special "SBC Weekly Roundup" edition of the CBL Podcast, William Wolfe and Jon Whitehead unpack breaking news within the Southern Baptist Convention, including the Executive Committee's new $186M Cooperative Program budget and ongoing financial strain on the EC. They discuss the disfellowshipping of two churches over female pastors and broader concerns about egalitarianism. A major focus is the McRaney v. NAMB case and the Supreme Court's denial of review, which Whitehead argues reshapes Baptist polity and weakens ordinary Baptists' civil recourse against defamation. The future of the SBC hangs in the balance as we countdown to the SBC Annual Meeting in Orlando. Follow CBL's "SBC Weekly RoundUp" to stay informed on: SBC Presidential Race Entity Controversies (ERLC, Executive Committee, seminaries, and more) The future of the Cooperative Program How your church can prepare to engage faithfully and effectively at the SBC Annual Meeting Timestamps: 00:00 - 02:37 – Introduction & Preview of SBC Weekly Roundup 02:37 - 05:00 – Executive Committee Budget Cuts & continuing financial strain 05:00 - 06:02 – Two SBC churches disfellowshipped, egalitarianism, and the Law Amendment gap 06:02 - 09:35 – McRaney v. NAMB: Overview of the case, SCOTUS denial, and NAMB's public spin 09:35 - 15:00 – Initial Takeaways from the EC Meeting: “Everything Is Awesome” deception 15:00 - 24:42 – Lifeway CP Survey vs. Financial Reality 24:42 - 36:52 – Disturbing Twist: Vance Pitman's NAMB contract as ‘National Mobilizer' 36:52 - 40:00 – Have We Lost Our Baptist Polity? Today vs. Historic SBC Church Planting Rates 40:00 - 1:20:00 – Church autonomy, civil justice, and courts treating Baptists like Catholics 1:20:00 - 1:25:00 – Orlando or Bust: Why This SBC Meeting Is Pivotal –––––– Follow Center for Baptist Leadership across Social Media: X / Twitter – https://twitter.com/BaptistLeaders Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/people/Center-For-Baptist-Leadership/61556762144277/ Rumble – https://rumble.com/c/c-6157089 YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@CenterforBaptistLeadership Website – https://centerforbaptistleadership.org/ To book William for media appearances or speaking engagements, please contact him at media@centerforbaptistleadership.org. Follow Us on Twitter: William Wolfe - https://twitter.com/William_E_Wolfe Richard Henry - https://twitter.com/RThenry83 Renew the SBC from within and defend the SBC from those who seek its destruction, donate today: https://centerforbaptistleadership.org/donate/ The Center for Baptist Leadership Podcast is powered by American Reformer, recorded remotely in the United States by William Wolfe, and edited by Jared Cummings. Subscribe to the Center for Baptist Leadership Podcast: Distribute our RSS Feed – https://centerforbaptistleadership.podbean.com/ Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/center-for-baptist-leadership/id1743074575 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/0npXohTYKWYmWLsHkalF9t Amazon Music // Audible – https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9ababbdd-6c6b-4ab9-b21a-eed951e1e67b BoomPlay – https://www.boomplaymusic.com/podcasts/96624 CastboxFM – https://castbox.fm/channel/id6132313 CastroFM – https://castro.fm/podcast/67110759-1bb9-4fd9-abcb-34113d42e945 CurioCaster – https://curiocaster.com/podcast/pi6894445 Fountain – https://fountain.fm/show/IURohE0rZPJr5h81wxbX Goodpods – https://goodpods.com/podcasts/center-for-baptist-leadership-565673 iHeartRadio – https://iheart.com/podcast/170321203 iVoox – https://www.ivoox.com/en/podcast-center-for-baptist-leadership_sq_f12419733_1.html Listen Notes – https://lnns.co/2Br0hw7p5R4 MoonFM – https://moon.fm/itunes/1743074575 PlayerFM – https://player.fm/series/3570081 PocketCasts – https://play.pocketcasts.com/podcasts/ddd92230-e3ff-013c-e7de-02cacb2c6223 PodcastAddict – https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/center-for-baptist-leadership/5090794 Podchaser – https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-center-for-baptist-leaders-5696654 PodcastRepublic – https://www.podcastrepublic.net/podcast/1743074575 TrueFans – https://truefans.fm/center-for-baptist-leadership YouTube Podcasts – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFMvfuzJKMICA7wi3CXvQxdNtA_lqDFV
Top headlines for Thursday, February 26, 2026The U.S. Supreme Court has ended Will McRaney's nine-year legal battle against the Southern Baptist Convention's mission board, a ruling that reinforces church autonomy under the First Amendment. Meanwhile, televangelist E. Bernard Jordan is suing YouTubers and pastors for $80 million, alleging defamation and secret recordings that he claims devastated his ministry. And in Florida, Turning Point USA Faith abruptly canceled its “Make Heaven Crowded” tour stop at First Baptist Orlando, raising questions about the intersection of church, politics, and public events.00:11 'Hand of Providence': 7 top moments in Trump's State of the Union address marking nation's 250th anniversary01:16 Supreme Court refuses Will McRaney's lawsuit against SBC entity02:04 Televangelist E. Bernard Jordan files lawsuit against YouTubers02:51 Baptist church, TPUSA back off plans to host 'Make Heaven Crowded03:36 Vanderbilt ceases some adult trans surgeries04:29 Randy Saylor of Living Word Church gets 10 years for sex assault05:16 Trip Lee's first worship project shaped by chronic illnessSubscribe to this PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyOvercastFollow Us on Social Media@ChristianPost on XChristian Post on Facebook@ChristianPostIntl on InstagramSubscribe on YouTubeGet the Edifi AppDownload for iPhoneDownload for AndroidSubscribe to Our NewsletterSubscribe to the Freedom Post, delivered every Monday and ThursdayClick here to get the top headlines delivered to your inbox every morning!Links to the News'Hand of Providence': 7 top moments in Trump's State of the Union address marking nation's 250th anniversarySupreme Court refuses Will McRaney's lawsuit against SBC entity | Church & MinistriesTelevangelist E. Bernard Jordan files lawsuit against YouTubers | U.S.Baptist church, TPUSA back off plans to host 'Make Heaven Crowded | U.S.Vanderbilt ceases some adult trans surgeries | U.S.Randy Saylor of Living Word Church gets 10 years for sex assault | U.S.Americans recount moments after killing of Mexican cartel leader | WorldTrip Lee's first worship project shaped by chronic illness | Entertainment
In this throwback episode, we revisit H.B.'s 2023 conversation with Steve Gaines, Pastor Emeritus of Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee. After serving as Senior Pastor for 19 years, Dr. Gaines transitioned to his emeritus role in 2024. He also served as the President of the Southern Baptist Convention from 2016 to 2018. He continues to be a widely respected voice in the areas of prayer, evangelism, and pastoral ministry.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more resources at https://HBCharlesJr.comThe On Preaching Podcast is dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better.Hosted by H.B. Charles, Jr., Pastor-Teacher of Shiloh.Church in Jacksonville, Florida Produced by Luke Clayton and the team at IncreaseCreative.CoSHARE YOUR QUESTIONS, AND IT MAY BE FEATURED IN A FUTURE EPISODE.Drop a comment or go to https://ncrs.cc/opqa to ask your questions.
Guests: Ronald J. Pestritto & Daniel Darling Host Scot Bertram talks with Ronald J. Pestritto, dean of the Van Andel Graduate School of Statesmanship and Charles and Lucia Shipley Chair in the American Constitution at Hillsdale College, about the rise of the administrative state and his recent provocation Government by the Unelected: How it Happened, and How It Might Be Tamed. And Daniel Darling, director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and fellow at the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, discusses the Christian obligation to patriotism and his new book In Defense of Christian Patriotism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the ERLC Podcast, Interim President Dr. Gary Hollingsworth sits down with Dr. Fred Luter, senior pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church and former president of the Southern Baptist Convention, to discuss racial reconciliation in the life of the church. Together, they reflect on the power of the gospel to break down dividing walls, share encouraging stories of progress within the SBC, and offer practical guidance for pastors seeking to lead their congregations toward greater unity. As Southern Baptists observe Racial Reconciliation Sunday, this conversation reminds us that a free and faithful church should reflect the diverse, redeemed multitude we will one day worship alongside in heaven.Listen to more episodes of The ERLC Podcast at erlc.com/podcast.
"If it were not for the black church, there would be no church in America." - Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1931) In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Walter Strickland II—professor, author, and teaching pastor—reveals why Dietrich Bonhoeffer said there would be no church in America without the African-American church, and what that means for leaders today.Dr. Walter Strickland II unpacks the biblical foundation for kingdom diversity, explains why lament is the missing spiritual muscle in American Christianity, and shares forgotten stories of African-American church leaders. Discover how bearing each other's burdens and learning from the past can transform your church into the multicultural witness God intended.Key Insights:04:46 - Bonhoeffer's Bold Statement About the Black Church08:35 - Spirit-Led Innovation Means Proclamation + Justice14:10 - Kingdom Diversity vs. DEI: What's the Difference?17:34 - Individualistic vs. Collectivistic: Why We Misunderstand Grief19:32 - Why We Debate Details Instead of Mourning Together21:24 - Daniel 9: Repenting on Behalf of Your Nation22:30 - Notable Leaders in Black Church HistoryResources Mentioned:Website: https://walterstrickland.wordpress.comSwing Low: A Life of Lifting Jesus Higher (Volumes 1 & 2) by Walter R. Strickland IIPlain Theology for Plain People by Charles Octavius Booth (republished by Strickland)Removing the Stain of Racism from the Southern Baptist Convention (contributor)God So Loved the World: A Blueprint for Kingdom Diversity by Walter R. Strickland IIJuneteenth Documentary featuring Rasool Berry - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YmjuDxKTzzgFollow Innovative Church Leaders:Website: https://innovativechurchleaders.org/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InnovativeChurchLeadersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InnovativeChurchLeaders/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/innovativechurchleadersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleadersLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleadersEric Bryant:Website: https://ericbryant.org/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ericbryant777TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ericbryant777Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericmichaelbryant/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericbryant/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-bryant-397003172/X: https://x.com/ericbryantPastoral Cohort with N.T. Wright: https://innovativechurchleaders.org/cohort/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-post-christian-podcast/id1509588357Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ZeQIrzr2tCMyq1VdwxGNnKingdom diversity isn't optional—it's biblical. Learn how to lead a church that reflects Revelation 7:9. Sign up for practical tools at https://innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us.#ChurchLeadership #KingdomDiversity #Lament #BlackChurch #CulturalDiscernment #MultiEthnicChurch #SpiritLed #BiblicalJustice #ChurchHistory #BlackHistoryMonth
The Theology of Resilience: Trusting God When Life Doesn’t Make Sense with Daniel RitchieResilience isn’t just the ability to survive hardship…it’s the courage to believe that God is still good, purposeful, and present in the middle of it. Today’s guest embodies that truth in a powerful way. Daniel Ritchie was born without arms, something that, by the world’s standards, could have defined his limitations. But instead of allowing his circumstances to dictate his identity or future, Daniel has chosen a life marked by faith, joy, perseverance, and purpose.This conversation goes far beyond overcoming adversity. It’s about how emotional wounds can run deeper than physical ones, the power that is found through surrender, as well as rooting and anchoring our identity in Christ, and how weakness, when placed in God’s hands, can become a platform for His strength.Daniel is a longtime evangelist, speaker, author, and currently serves as First Vice President of the Southern Baptist Convention. But at his core, he is a man who has learned to trust God deeply, even when life didn’t make sense.Links:Daniel’s Website: https://danielritchie.com/about-daniel/Pick up a Copy of My Affliction for His Glory: https://www.amazon.com/My-Affliction-His-Glory-Identity/dp/1683590821Pick up a copy of Endure: https://www.amazon.com/Endure-Building-Faith-Long-Run/dp/1683595416 About Daniel - Daniel Ritchie A post from DRITCH9 on Daniel Ritchie provided by: https://danielritchie.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What happens when faith communities quietly replace women's leadership with unpaid, invisible labor? In this powerful Best of 2025 #1 top most downloaded episode of 2025 re-release, historian and bestselling author Dr. Beth Allison Barr joins Lori Adams-Brown to unpack how the role of the “pastor's wife” became a substitute for women's ordination—and the deep harm that followed. Drawing from her book Becoming the Pastor's Wife, Beth combines rigorous historical research with lived experience to show how a once-fluid vision of women's leadership in Christianity narrowed dramatically in the late 20th century. What emerges is a sobering picture: women expected to perform the equivalent of multiple full-time jobs for free, while being told their obedience—not their gifts—is God's highest calling. Together, Lori and Beth explore how this shift didn't happen gradually, but almost overnight, during the Southern Baptist Convention's fundamentalist takeover. They discuss the psychological toll on women, the myth of “biblical womanhood,” and how patriarchy often survives by recruiting women to enforce it. This conversation isn't just about church history—it's about power, unpaid labor, identity, and what happens when women are asked to disappear for the sake of “peace.” In this episode, we cover: How marriage replaced ordination as women's path to ministry The myth of the “ideal” pastor's wife and its emotional toll Why unpaid labor is framed as godliness—and why that's harmful How women are pitted against one another inside patriarchal systems What it could look like for women to work together instead Guest Bio:Beth Allison Barr is a medieval historian, professor, and bestselling author of The Making of Biblical Womanhood. Her work bridges history, faith, and gender, helping readers recover the erased stories of women in Christianity. Key Timestamps: 00:05 – The forgotten legacy of Willie Dawson 12:30 – Dorothy Patterson's hats & the performance of submission 19:40 – The “patriarchal bargain” explained 24:15 – The emotional cost of being the ideal pastor's wife 27:40 – A vision for working together, not competing Call to Action:Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone navigating faith, leadership, or invisible labor. Visit our podcast website or loriadamsbrown.com for more resources. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What happens when faith communities quietly replace women's leadership with unpaid, invisible labor? In this powerful Best of 2025 #1 top most downloaded episode of 2025 re-release, historian and bestselling author Dr. Beth Allison Barr joins Lori Adams-Brown to unpack how the role of the “pastor's wife” became a substitute for women's ordination—and the deep harm that followed. Drawing from her book Becoming the Pastor's Wife, Beth combines rigorous historical research with lived experience to show how a once-fluid vision of women's leadership in Christianity narrowed dramatically in the late 20th century. What emerges is a sobering picture: women expected to perform the equivalent of multiple full-time jobs for free, while being told their obedience—not their gifts—is God's highest calling. Together, Lori and Beth explore how this shift didn't happen gradually, but almost overnight, during the Southern Baptist Convention's fundamentalist takeover. They discuss the psychological toll on women, the myth of “biblical womanhood,” and how patriarchy often survives by recruiting women to enforce it. This conversation isn't just about church history—it's about power, unpaid labor, identity, and what happens when women are asked to disappear for the sake of “peace.” In this episode, we cover: How marriage replaced ordination as women's path to ministry The myth of the “ideal” pastor's wife and its emotional toll Why unpaid labor is framed as godliness—and why that's harmful How women are pitted against one another inside patriarchal systems What it could look like for women to work together instead Guest Bio:Beth Allison Barr is a medieval historian, professor, and bestselling author of The Making of Biblical Womanhood. Her work bridges history, faith, and gender, helping readers recover the erased stories of women in Christianity. Key Timestamps: 00:05 – The forgotten legacy of Willie Dawson 12:30 – Dorothy Patterson's hats & the performance of submission 19:40 – The “patriarchal bargain” explained 24:15 – The emotional cost of being the ideal pastor's wife 27:40 – A vision for working together, not competing Call to Action:Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone navigating faith, leadership, or invisible labor. Visit our podcast website or loriadamsbrown.com for more resources. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison says that church services are fair game for protesters. He’s defending the rioters who stormed a Baptist church in St. Paul over the weekend. Clint Pressley, the president of the Southern Baptist Convention joins us today to discuss. Listen LIVE Weekdays 7AM Central on the KWAM app, or Mighty990.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Barry Creamer has served as president of Criswell College since 2014, after spending a combined 10 years as both a member of the faculty and as the Vice President of Academic Affairs. A trained philosopher and historian, Dr. Creamer holds a B.A. in English from Baylor University, an M.Div. from Criswell College, and a Ph.D. in Humanities from the University of Texas at Arlington.For more than 20 years Dr. Creamer pastored churches across Texas, and he continues to preach conferences, teach lay audiences, and serve as interim pastor for churches in transition. Dr. Creamer has spent over a decade hosting his own podcast, Coffee with Creamer, a program covering relevant issues in ethics, ministry, and worldview, and has served on the Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission. His writing has been featured on numerous print and electronic platforms.
Check out the list of 20 Top Podcasts to start off for 2026. And our guest is JD GREEAR, senior pastor of Summit Church in Raleigh, NC, and best-selling author of multiple books, including his most recent Everyday Revolutionary. JD also is the past president of the Southern Baptist Convention, and a popular speaker and podcaster. We discuss leadership today, engaging culture, the power of quiet influence, practical ways to impact your community, and much more. Plus, check out the list of 20 Top Podcasts you should know to start off 2026. Make sure to visit http://h3leadership.com to access the list and all the show notes. Share them with your team, repost the lists, and follow and subscribe. Thanks again to our partners for this episode: UNITUS – (FOOTWEAR and APPAREL) Unitus is a faith-focused footwear and apparel company started by NBA player, Jonathan Isaac. Visit http://weareunitus.com. Unitus exists to help followers of Jesus honor God in their everyday life. The most recent shoe drop is the Judah 2 - a lifestyle running and athletic shoe featuring Scripture on the back. Choose your favorite shoes, workout gear, hoodies, or leisure wear. Makes a great gift for friends and family. Check them out at http://weareunitus.com. And SUBSPLASH – engage your congregation through Subsplash. Schedule your free demo at http://subsplash.com/brad. Subsplash is the platform made to help maximize your church's giving, growth, and engagement. The go to for mobile apps, messaging, and streaming, along with building websites, groups, giving and more, Subsplash puts today's most innovative church technology into your hands so you can focus completely on ministry. Visit http://subsplash.com/brad and join more than 20,000 churches and ministries who partner with Subsplash. Again, visit http://subsplash.com/brad to schedule a quick, no obligation demo.
RaShan Frost from the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention talks about their recent statement of principles for use of AI, calling for the wise application of AI technology based on the theological principle of humans being made it the image of God. The Gospel Coalition's Collin Hansen looks back at 2025 and talks about the top 10 theological news stories of 2025. The Reconnect with Carmen and all Faith Radio podcasts are made possible by your support. Give now: Click here
The Southern Baptist Convention has undermined its moral authority amid America's institutional legitimacy crisis by adopting progressive agendas, including a multimillion-dollar #MeToo alliance costing over $13 million—featuring the Guidepost investigation—that led to selling its headquarters. This stemmed from a purported abuse emergency based on contested events: Paige Patterson's 2018 firing over remarks and an unverified allegation; the 2019 Houston Chronicle report (with predation rates critics say are below societal averages across 47,000 churches); and Jennifer Lyell's progressive activism framing a 12-year consensual relationship with David Sills as abuse, now unraveling via romantic emails revealed in the Sills' ongoing defamation lawsuit exposing Guidepost's biased process. The episode reflects a shift from biblical standards on adultery to secular frameworks, demanding new leadership rooted in truth for restoration.Order Against the Waves: Againstthewavesbook.comCheck out Jon's Music: jonharristunes.comTo Support the Podcast: https://www.worldviewconversation.com/support/Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/jonharrispodcastSubstack: https://substack.com/@jonharris?X: https://twitter.com/jonharris1989Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonharris1989/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonharrispodcast/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/conversations-that-matter8971/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Welcome back to our review of The Real David Platt! In this episode, we dive into the SBC and if Mclean Bible church or any church is in the Southern Baptist Convention. We talk about this because ecclesiology matters. We just need your friendly cooperation here.... These reviews play clips from the documentary so you may want to watch these on our youtube channel. You can find full documentary here.
We have heard a lot of discussion in the past few years about Christian Nationalism. But for all the talk, the books, and the social media traffic, there's less clarity than ever around the term. But one of the worst outcomes we have seen amidst this talk has been a dismissal of what my guest today, Daniel Darling, calls Christian patriotism. While Dan Darling rejects what is often a virulent and anti-Christian version of Christian Nationalism, he writes in a new book that patriotism isn't optional for Christians. He explains that God himself defines the time and place in which we live and gave us a command to love our neighbors. Loving our country and getting involved in the political, social, cultural, and civic lives of our nation are essential duties. Dan Darling is uniquely qualified to talk about these issues. He is a pastor and the author of several books, including The Dignity Revolution, which is one that had a big impact on me. He currently serves as the director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and is a fellow at the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention. He is also a columnist for WORLD Magazine and a contributor to USA Today. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. Until next time, may God bless you.
Welcome to The Weekly, produced by TAB Media Group, which publishes The Alabama Baptist and The Baptist Paper. Each episode features news headlines read by TAB Media Group staff and volunteers. New episodes are released weekly on Wednesday mornings. To hear Jennifer Rash's full interview with RaShan Frost, director of research with the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, find it on TAB Media Group's YouTube channel here. To download the workbook, visit erlc.com. Visit TAB Media HERE Subscribe on iTunes HERE
Trillia Newbell is the author of the kids' books Creative God, Colorful Us and God's Very Good Idea; a Bible study on Hebrews 11, A Great Cloud of Witnesses; and a Bible study on Romans 8, If God Is For Us, as well as the books Sacred Endurance: Finding Grace and Strength for a Lasting Faith; Enjoy: Finding the Freedom to Delight Daily in God's Good Gifts (2016); Fear and Faith: Finding the Peace Your Heart Craves (2015) and United: Captured by God's Vision for Diversity (2014). Her writings on issues of faith, family, and diversity have been published in the Knoxville News-Sentinel, and many other Christian outlets. Trillia has spoken at numerous conferences, churches, women's retreats, colleges and seminaries. She spent seven years serving as the Director of Community Outreach for the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission for the Southern Baptist Convention. She is currently an acquisitions editor for Moody Publishers. Her latest book is Celebrating Around the Table: Learning the Stories of Black Christians through Readings, Fellowship, Food, and Faith, (Harvest House).
JESUS IS BETTER Mark 12:35–40 Culture of Gospel Share this with someone in your life who doesn't know Jesus If corruption, hypocrisy, and abuse inside the church have ever made you question Jesus, let this sink in: Jesus condemned those things even more fiercely than you do. What you hate about religion is often the very reason you might love Jesus — because He exposes that darkness and stands against it. Sermon Summary In this message, Coleton walks deeply into one of Jesus' sharpest public confrontations with religious leaders. Drawing from Mark 12:35–40, he exposes three behaviors of the teachers of the law that still plague the church today — behaviors that cause people to lose trust, walk away, or become disgusted with religion altogether. But instead of letting these failings push us from Jesus, Coleton argues they should push us closer to Him, because Jesus Himself condemns these very abuses more clearly, more passionately, and more fiercely than we ever could. What follows is Coleton's three-point framework, each grounded in Scripture, history, and modern examples, ultimately leading us toward a posture of repentance, discernment, and deeper intimacy with Jesus. 1. Hypocritical Lifestyle — Appearing Righteous (vv. 38, 40) Scripture: “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect… and for a show make lengthy prayers.” — Mark 12:38, 40 Historical Note (Mark Strauss): “Teachers of the law wore long white linen robes… These garments imitated the robes worn by priests and so ‘signified' religious devotion.” Jesus' critique: They projected holiness to gain admiration, honor, and spiritual credibility, but inside they were spiritually dead. Coleton highlights Jesus' words from Matthew where He calls them “whitewashed tombs” — clean and impressive on the outside, but hiding decay beneath. He describes Bryn Gilet's painting of the Pharisee and tax collector, showing a beautifully posed, self-righteous Pharisee whose “worship” is nothing more than polished emptiness. Modern Example: Coleton shares his disillusionment with a once-admired pastor whose hidden lifestyle contradicted everything he preached. The fallout devastated a church, wounded countless people, and embodied this exact hypocrisy Jesus condemned. Main Idea: Hypocrisy in spiritual leaders makes people question everything — the church, the message, even Jesus Himself. But Jesus is not soft on hypocrisy. He hates it. He exposes it, condemns it, and warns His followers to stay alert to it. 2. Using God to Get Better Treatment & Better Stuff (vv. 38–39) Scripture: “They like to… be greeted with respect… and have the most important seats… and the places of honor at banquets.” — Mark 12:38–39 Commentary (David Guzik): “They taught that teachers were to be respected almost as much as God… The greatest act someone could do was to give money to a teacher… Of course, it was the teachers themselves who taught this.” What's happening here? These leaders used Scripture as a tool to extract honor, wealth, and privilege for themselves. They weren't shepherds — they were spiritual opportunists. Modern Examples: Coleton highlights real stories we all see far too often: Pastors who demand honorific treatment. Churches where members must publicly declare their tithes. Preachers who use the pulpit to justify private jets or lavish lifestyles. Leaders who shame people into financial giving. He tells of a man who built a multi-million-dollar home for a pastor and said simply, “This is why I don't trust the church.” He didn't know Scripture — he just knew something felt wrong. Main Idea: When spiritual authority becomes a platform for personal gain, the world sees right through it — and they should. Jesus Himself calls out this manipulation long before modern critics ever did. 3. Using Power to Prey on the Weak (v. 40) Scripture: “They devour widows' houses…” — Mark 12:40 Commentary (David L. McKenna): “Scribes served as consultants in estate planning for widows… They convinced lonely and susceptible women that their money should be given to the scribe… There is no better way to assure the confidence of widows than by a show of spirituality….” What Jesus is condemning: Religious leaders using spiritual authority to exploit and financially drain vulnerable people — particularly widows. Modern Examples (summarized): Coleton cites a heartbreaking list: Southern Baptist Convention's report documenting 700 abusers in a decade and systemic cover-ups. Prosperity preachers promising healing in exchange for “seed money.” Stories of people dying from illness after being taught to give instead of seek treatment. “Miracle cash cards,” “resurrection seeds,” “holy water,” and other manipulative schemes. Coleton notes how reading these cases was “brutal.” Comments under these articles echoed the same cry: “This is why I want nothing to do with God or the church.” Main Idea: Spiritual abuse is real. It is evil. And Jesus does not tolerate it. Jesus says those who do this will receive greater condemnation — a warning stronger than any critique we could offer. A Turning Point: Why These Failings Should Draw You Closer to Jesus Coleton makes a stunning and deeply pastoral turn: If church corruption disgusts you, you have more in common with Jesus than you think. Jesus agrees with you. Jesus condemns what you condemn — and even more strongly. He uses the opening verses of the text (Mark 12:35–37) to show that Jesus distance Himself from corrupt religious leaders by proving they don't truly understand Scripture nor the identity of the Messiah. “David himself calls him ‘Lord.' How then can he be his son?” — Mark 12:37 Jesus is saying: “They don't know Me. So don't confuse them with Me.” Their failures do not represent Him. What This Means for Us — Applications 1. Fight the Temptation to Look Good on the Outside We all want to hide flaws, curate an image, and appear righteous. But image-based faith is like Banksy's graffiti-cleaner artwork — adding paint on top of paint, looking busy but doing nothing real. 2. Watch Out — Guard Your Heart Church hurt is real, but Jesus warns: “Watch out.” Don't let the sins of others lead you to cynicism, bitterness, or disobedience. Be discerning — not hardened. 3. Know Jesus So Well You Can Spot Counterfeits Coleton shares an Anne Graham Lotz story: A Scotland Yard expert studied real money so intensely that counterfeits were obvious. Likewise: Know the real Jesus deeply, so when someone distorts Him, you can see it — and not walk away from Him because of someone else's misrepresentation. Closing Gospel Picture — Jesus Is Not Like Them Coleton ends with three contrasts showing why Jesus is worth drawing near to: Jesus didn't just appear righteous; He was righteous — and took our place on a cross. Jesus didn't use His position to gain luxury; He gave up heaven's throne to rescue us. Jesus didn't abuse power; He submitted to humiliation so that we could experience God's blessing. Jesus is nothing like the corrupt leaders who misuse His name. So draw near to Him.
On this episode of The Ricecast, Pastors Willy Rice and Dan Pigsley talk about the Thanksgiving, The Florida Baptist Convention, Pastor's Come Before Winter Sermon, The SBC Presidency, and The Seven Pillars of Renewal needed for the Southern Baptist Convention. On October 31, 2025, Pastor Willy Rice announced his intention to allow his name to be placed in nomination for the Presidency of the Southern Baptist Convention in 2026. In doing so, he has begun outlining the “Pillars of Renewal” that will shape his vision and focus for this season of renewal within the SBC.Learn More at www.baptistrenewal.usSupport the showFind us at! Calvary.us
On this episode of The Ricecast, Pastors Willy Rice and Dan Pigsley talk about the cold weather, The Florida Baptist Convention, Missions Month, The SBC Presidency, and The Seven Pillars of Renewal needed for the Southern Baptist Convention. On October 31, 2025, Pastor Willy Rice announced his intention to allow his name to be placed in nomination for the Presidency of the Southern Baptist Convention in 2026. In doing so, he has begun outlining the “Pillars of Renewal” that will shape his vision and focus for this season of renewal within the SBC.Learn More at www.baptistrenewal.usSupport the showFind us at! Calvary.us
On this episode of The Ricecast, Pastors Willy Rice and Dan Pigsley talk about College Football (GO GATORS), CCHS Volleyball State Championship, The SBC Presidency, and The Seven Pillars of Renewal needed for the Southern Baptist Convention. On October 31, 2025, Pastor Willy Rice announced his intention to allow his name to be placed in nomination for the Presidency of the Southern Baptist Convention in 2026. In doing so, he has begun outlining the “Pillars of Renewal” that will shape his vision and focus for this season of renewal within the SBC.Learn More at www.baptistrenewal.usSupport the showFind us at! Calvary.us
The episode delves into the often-contentious relationship between conservative Christianity, particularly as represented by the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), and the scientific community. Through the insights of Dr. Benjamin Phillips and Dr. David Perry, we explore how individuals can perceive God through the lens of scientific inquiry, specifically in fields such as chemistry and ecology. The discussion reveals that the doctrines of creation and the understanding of God's presence in the natural world can coexist harmoniously with scientific exploration and understanding. We examine the misconceptions that many hold regarding the tension between faith and science, demonstrating that a more nuanced perspective can lead to greater unity within the church and a fuller appreciation of God's handiwork in creation. Ultimately, this conversation invites listeners to reconsider their views on the interplay of faith and science, promoting a more integrated approach to understanding both realms.The inaugural episode of the miniseries "The Whole Church Science Fair" features a profound dialogue between hosts Joshua Noel and TJ Blackwell and esteemed guests Dr. Benjamin Phillips, the Dean of Christian Studies at Charleston Southern University, and Dr. David Perry, an Associate Professor of Chemistry. This episode delves into the intricate relationship between conservative Christianity, particularly as represented by the Southern Baptist Convention, and the scientific community. It challenges the prevailing notion that these two realms are perpetually at odds, particularly concerning issues such as creationism and evolution. The guests articulate how the doctrines of creation can coexist with scientific inquiry, particularly in chemistry and ecology, emphasizing the pursuit of knowledge as a means of understanding God's handiwork in the natural world. They explore how scientific endeavors can illuminate the divine attributes of God, fostering a dialogue that seeks to bridge the gaps between faith and science, ultimately advocating for a more harmonious relationship between the two.Takeaways: In the inaugural episode of our miniseries "The Whole Church Science Fair", we engage with Dr. Benjamin Phillips and Dr. David Perry to explore the intersection of conservative Christianity and scientific inquiry, specifically within the context of the Southern Baptist Convention. The dialogue reveals a common misconception that conservative churches, particularly the Southern Baptist Convention, are inherently antagonistic towards the scientific community, largely due to historical tensions surrounding issues such as evolution and creationism. We discuss how the study of chemistry can illuminate the grandeur of God's creation, emphasizing that scientific discovery can enhance our understanding of divine work rather than diminish it. Dr. Perry articulates a stewardship ethic concerning ecological work, asserting that humanity's role in creation is to cultivate and enhance the natural world rather than exploit it, reflecting the biblical mandate found in Genesis. The episode challenges listeners to consider how a deeper engagement with both scripture and scientific principles can foster unity within the church, particularly amidst differing interpretations of controversial topics such as the age of the earth and human origins. By understanding diverse historical interpretations of Genesis, listeners may find common ground with fellow believers, promoting a spirit of cooperation rather than division in discussions surrounding faith and science. .Check out all of the other shows in the Anazao Podcast Network:https://anazao-ministries.captivate.fm.You can leave a donation, buy podcast merchandise, check out previous series that...
J.D. Greear and Joel Rosenberg on Revelation and the Church/Inside the Epicenter Explores Biblical Promises and Modern Realities/Replacement Theology, Israel, and the ChurchWelcome to Inside the Epicenter! In this episode, host Joel Rosenberg welcomes J.D. Greear, influential pastor and former Southern Baptist Convention president, to discuss whether God is finished with Israel and what that means for the church today. Together, they dive into the theological debate around replacement theology and explore how the Bible points to a future for ethnic Israel, especially through the lens of Revelation. J.D. shares his approach to teaching prophecy and the importance of loving both Israel and her neighbors, including Muslims, while Joel presses on how these beliefs shape ministry, missions, and compassion in a time of conflict. With practical insights for pastors, young evangelicals, and anyone wrestling with these big questions, this episode sheds fresh light on prophecy, mission, and the church’s role in blessing the Epicenter. Stay tuned for engaging perspectives and stories you won’t want to miss! (00:02) "Educating Christians to Bless Israel"(05:35) "JD's Winsome Scriptural Approach"(11:35) Israel, Church, and Biblical Covenants(17:00) "Unashamed Gospel and Jewish Focus"(22:50) Future Role of Ethnic Israel(29:41) Biblical Perspective on Critical Theory(32:17) "Being Beloved in Community"(37:35) Blessings, Israel, and Politics(46:16) "Expanding God's Work in Media"(51:19) Literal vs. Metaphorical Revelation Interpretation(54:17) Young Pastor's Biblical View on Israel(59:28) "Growing Ministry, Blessing the Church"(01:07:11) "Subscribe and Share Podcast" Learn more about The Joshua Fund: JoshuaFund.comMake a tax-deductible donation: Donate | The Joshua FundStock Media provided by DimmySad / Pond5 Verse of the Day: Genesis 12:1-3 - Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and pin you all the families of the earth shall be blessed. Pray for the refreshment of the pastors and the ministry leaders who have been serving so faithfully in very hard times, and they're exhausted and they're going through grief.Pray for us as we minister to the ministers, and that God open financial doors. Related Episodes:Hamas Is Now Slaughtering Gazans — How Should Trump and Evangelicals Respond? #324Tal Heinrich - Inside Trump and Netanyahu’s Middle East #323Strength for Women & Families in a Time of War #322Ambassador Yechiel Leiter - Historic Gaza Hostage Deal #321 Donate a generous monthly gift to The Joshua Fund to bless Israel and Her Neighbors now and for the long haul. Become an Epicenter Ally today! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Saving Elephants | Millennials defending & expressing conservative values
One cannot BE a conservative. One can only aspire to conservatism. So says John Wilsey in his new book Religious Freedom: A Conservative Primer. Perhaps Roger Scruton's How to be a Conservative was a worthy endeavor but too audacious of a title. John Wilsey joins Saving Elephants host Josh Lewis to flesh out the aspirational nature of conservatism and how it grounds the individual. They explore the religious roots of American conservatism and the challenges of bringing up a new generation of conservatives without the giants of the past conservatives had to look to for inspiration and encouragement. About John Wilsey John D. Wilsey is Professor of Church History and Philosophy and Chair of the Church History Department at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Senior Fellow at the Center for Religion, Culture, and Democracy, an initiative of the First Liberty Institute. He is also a research fellow with the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention and a research fellow with the Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the recipient of research fellowships from the James Madison Program in American Ideals and Institutions at Princeton University, the McConnell Center at the University of Louisville, the Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty, and the Russell Kirk Center for Cultural Renewal. He lives with his family in Louisville, Kentucky.
Why are fewer young people stepping into ministry today? Why does it feel like pastors are burning out, retiring, or walking away with no one to take their place? In this episode of the March or Die Show, Jeremy Stalnecker and Sean Kennard sit down with Bart Barber, Pastor of First Baptist Farmersville, Texas and former president of the Southern Baptist Convention, to talk honestly about the crisis in pastoral leadership and biblical leadership in general. Hit Subscribe, share this episode with your community, and drop a comment on what landed hardest for you. Want more reinforcement? Subscribe to our newsletter, The Forward Edge, to go beyond the podcast and dig deeper into these topics and more: https://marchordie.substack.com! Join us daily for encouragement and biblical truth with the Mighty Oaks Daily Devotional, you can sign up for reminders: https://mightyoaksprograms.org/daily-devotional Follow March or Die:https://instagram.com/MarchOrDie https://Facebook.com/MarchOrDieShow https://TikTok.com/March_or_Die Follow Jeremy:https://instagram.com/jeremystalnecker https://jeremystalnecker.com Follow Sean:https://instagram.com/seantopgunkennard https://youtube.com/@SeanTopGunKennard Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Russell Moore is Editor in Chief of Christianity Today and is the author of several books, including Losing Our Religion: An Alter Call for Evangelical America. An ordained Baptist minister, Moore served previously as President of the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission and, before that, as the chief academic officer and dean of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he also taught theology and ethics. He also hosts the weekly podcast The Russell Moore Show and is a senior commentator of Christianity Today's weekly news and analysis podcast, The Bulletin. Russell shares his insightful and thought-provoking views on the Charlie Kirk assassination and aftermath, the Epstein scandal, and Christianity in America today. So what would Jesus say? Russell addresses that and so much more. Got somethin' to say?! Email us at BackroomAndy@gmail.com Leave us a message: 845-307-7446 Twitter: @AndyOstroy Produced by Andy Ostroy, Matty Rosenberg, and Jennifer Hammoud @ Radio Free Rhiniecliff Design by Cricket Lengyel
Pastor Danny welcomes to the show his friend Pastor David Burton who has faithfully served the Lord in ministry for over 50 years! David has served in various capacities, including as the Director of Evangelism for the Southern Baptist Convention for over 25 years, and now serves as the president of his own ministry based in Florida. He shares a lot about what he has learned about sharing the Gospel with people in various conexts, including in his motorcycle ministry!
9.3.2025 #RolandMartinUnfiltered: Trump Eyes National Guard For Chicago, Epstein Files Chaos, Baptist Power Play, Clarke vs. MillsThe convict-in-chief is considering whether to deploy National Guard troops to Chicago or a city with a governor who, he says, would welcome them, like New Orleans.Jeffrey Epstein survivors and several lawmakers gathered on Capitol Hill, demanding the full release of his case files. The leadership of the Southern Baptist Convention is overwhelmingly white and male. Texas pastor Reverend William Dwight McKissic will be here to discuss the conservative movement to "Make Baptists Great Again." Congresswoman Yvette Clarke calls out Representative Cory Mills over allegations of harassment. We'll show you her introducing a resolution to censure him.And in our Tech Talk segment: Across the country, more families are choosing homeschooling. We'll speak with the founders of Cocoa Classroom, who are helping reshape education for Black families.#BlackStarNetwork partner: Fanbasehttps://www.startengine.com/offering/fanbaseThis Reg A+ offering is made available through StartEngine Primary, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. This investment is speculative, illiquid, and involves a high degree of risk, including the possible loss of your entire investment. You should read the Offering Circular (https://bit.ly/3VDPKjD) and Risks (https://bit.ly/3ZQzHl0) related to this offering before investing.Download the Black Star Network app at http://www.blackstarnetwork.com! We're on iOS, AppleTV, Android, AndroidTV, Roku, FireTV, XBox and SamsungTV.The #BlackStarNetwork is a news reporting platform covered under Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Robert D. Martin comes out of the Christian establishment from places I do not generally have access to, including being on the Board of the Liberty University School of Business, an officer of the Southern Baptist Convention, and working with powerful politicians and financiers. We ended up talking in depth before and after the show on our feelings about God in our lives. Rod is one of the most informed and articulate people I have met on global affairs from a historical and current events viewpoint. He will definitely add to your knowledge about what is going on in the clash between good and evil in the world today. Rod has many insights into the nature of human evil and how it is embedded in our institutions. However, he also expresses hope and details some reasons for hope in the beginning of a rebirth of Christianity in America, especially among younger people. Rod speaks with amazing clarity and conviction about the most important issues of our day, making this one of my best hours of listening to another person's ideas. Rod D. Martin, Founder and CEO of Martin Capital and The Rod Martin Report, is an investor, technology entrepreneur, and futurist from Destin, Florida. Fox Business calls him a “tech guru,” Gawker once labeled him a “brilliant nonconformist,” while Britain's Guardian describes him as a “philosopher capitalist.” BlazeTV has named him “one of America's leading public intellectuals.” Rod was part of PayPal's pre-IPO startup team, serving as special counsel to founder and CEO Peter Thiel and as policy director to former Governor Mike Huckabee. He is active in a variety of charitable and educational endeavors, including service on the Board of Directors of the Center for Security Policy, on the Board of Advisors at the Liberty University School of Business, and as co-founder of the Conservative Baptist Network. ______ Learn more about Dr. Peter Breggin's work: https://breggin.com/ See more from Dr. Breggin's long history of being a reformer in psychiatry: https://breggin.com/Psychiatry-as-an-Instrument-of-Social-and-Political-Control Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal, the how-to manual @ https://breggin.com/a-guide-for-prescribers-therapists-patients-and-their-families/ Get a copy of Dr. Breggin's latest book: WHO ARE THE “THEY” - THESE GLOBAL PREDATORS? WHAT ARE THEIR MOTIVES AND THEIR PLANS FOR US? HOW CAN WE DEFEND AGAINST THEM? Covid-19 and the Global Predators: We are the Prey Get a copy: https://www.wearetheprey.com/ “No other book so comprehensively covers the details of COVID-19 criminal conduct as well as its origins in a network of global predators seeking wealth and power at the expense of human freedom and prosperity, under cover of false public health policies.” ~ Robert F Kennedy, Jr Author of #1 bestseller The Real Anthony Fauci and Founder, Chairman and Chief Legal Counsel for Children's Health Defense.
About Daniel Daniel is a speaker, author and the Vice President of the Southern Baptist Convention. He is husband to Heather and daddy to two. About the Episode Join Becky Davidson as she sits down with Daniel Ritchie, a motivational speaker and author, to explore his incredible journey of overcoming adversity. Born without arms, Daniel shares his birth story, the challenges he faced growing up, and how his faith played a pivotal role in his life. Discover how Daniel's unique perspective on disability and faith inspires others to find purpose and joy in their own stories. Related Links Story of Daniel's Life Extraordinary Legacy Small Group study X - @DanielRitchie Author of "My Affliction for His Glory" and "Endure." Visit danielritchie.com for more insights and resources. Moment of Reflection: “Where in my parenting journey have I seen unexpected beauty grow out of hardship?”
Part 2 | In 2024, Mercy Hill Church became the #1 missionary sending church in the Southern Baptist Convention. This doesn't happen overnight, and it doesn't happen without intentionality. In this episode of Breaking Barriers, Pastor Andrew talks with our Missions Director, Landon about Mercy Hill's 2-year training process that has sent out 212 people (71 international) to unreached people groups. Learn practical strategies for missions mobilization, church planting systems, and how to transition from church growth to global sending. Perfect for pastors, church leaders, and missions committees wanting to build sustainable missionary training programs.Website: https://breakinggrowthbarriers.comFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/breakinggrowthbarriersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/breakinggrowthbarriersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakinggrowthbarriers
In 2024, Mercy Hill Church became the #1 missionary sending church in the Southern Baptist Convention. This doesn't happen overnight, and it doesn't happen without intentionality. In this episode of Breaking Barriers, Pastor Andrew talks with our Missions Director, Landon about Mercy Hill's 2-year training process that has sent out 212 people (71 international) to unreached people groups. Learn practical strategies for missions mobilization, church planting systems, and how to transition from church growth to global sending. Perfect for pastors, church leaders, and missions committees wanting to build sustainable missionary training programs.Website: https://breakinggrowthbarriers.comFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/breakinggrowthbarriersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/breakinggrowthbarriersInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakinggrowthbarriers
On today's program, a former employee sues Liberty University, claiming she was given heavier work loads, less pay, and was passed over for promotions. In the end, she claims she was fired for being a whistleblower. We'll have details. Plus, email scams are targeting churches…in some cases, scammers pose as pastors seeking donations. How can churches and members protect themselves? We take a look. Also, the Southern Baptist Convention launches a new abuse helpline. We'll also have a remembrance of Dr. James Dobson, who died on Thursday. First, a lawsuit leveled against Grand Canyon Education has been dropped. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. We get database and other technical support from Stephen DuBarry, Rod Pitzer, and Casey Sudduth. Writers who contributed to today's program include Kim Roberts, Tony Mator, Daniel Ritchie, Yonat Shimron, Isaac Wood, Jessica Eturralde, Laura Erlanson, and Aaron Earls. A special thanks to Lifeway Research and Baptist Press for contributing material for this week's podcast. MANUSCRIPT: FIRST SEGMENT Warren: Hello everybody. I'm Warren Smith, coming to you from Charlotte, North Carolina. Christina: And I'm Christina Darnell, in for Natasha Cowden this week, and we'd like to welcome you to the MinistryWatch podcast. Warren: On today's program, a former employee sues Liberty University, claiming she was given heavier work loads, less pay, and was passed over for promotions. In the end, she claims she was fired for being a whistleblower. We'll have details. Plus, email scams are targeting churches…in some cases, scammers pose as pastors seeking donations. How can churches and members protect themselves? We take a look. And, the Southern Baptist Convention launches a new abuse helpline. We'll also have a remembrance of Dr. James Dobson, who died on Thursday. Christina: But first, a lawsuit leveled against Grand Canyon Education has been dropped. Warren: The Federal Trade Commission first brought the lawsuit during the Biden Administration, claiming Grand Canyon Education—which is the for-profit marketing arm of Grand Canyon University—misled prospective students about how much it would cost to complete their doctoral programs. Christina: Also, in November, Grand Canyon secured another victory after the court found that the Education Department had used the wrong standard when it denied the university's application for nonprofit status in 2019. All that led to last week, when the Federal Trade Commission formally dismissed their case. Warren: That's right. In a statement, the F-T-C said the case presented “consumers very little upside relative to the cost of pursuing it to completion, especially given the developments chronicled above.” They said it would be “imprudent to continue expending Commission resources on a lost cause.” Christina: Grand Canyon Education praised the decision. Warren: They did. Grand Canyon University President Brian Mueller—who is also president of Grand Canyon Education—says the accusations against them have always been false. Christina: Still, Grand Canyon University isn't out of the woods yet. A civil case brought by former doctoral students is still ongoing in federal court. Warren: In June 2024, Tanner Smith and Qimin Wang are two plaintiffs—both former students who claim they were lied to about the cost of the doctoral programs. They say they were both required to take continuation courses that added over $8,000 to the cost of their degree programs. Christina: Our next story takes us to Liberty University, who is facing a discrimination and wrongful termination lawsuit from a former employee. Warren: Erika Woolfolk, a black woman, worked as a civil rights investigator in Liberty's Office of Equity and Compliance for Title IX. She is a graduate of the school and worked there from 2014 to 2024. She filed a lawsuit on August 12,
Top headlines for Friday, August 22, 2025In this episode, we reflect on the life and legacy of James Dobson, the influential conservative Christian therapist, author, and founder of Focus on the Family, who has passed away at the age of 89. We also discuss the Southern Baptist Convention's recent efforts to address sexual abuse within its communities through a newly revamped reporting hotline. Lastly, we spotlight Samaritan's Purse and their humanitarian response to the devastating floods in Wisconsin, showcasing how the organization is providing critical aid to affected families. 00:11 James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family, dies at 8901:07 Target urged to reinstate DEI policies as CEO announces exit02:07 SBC launches revamped helpline to combat sex abuse in churches03:01 Museum of Bible unveils first-ever Scripture sneakers04:03 Former Life.Church intern charged with child porn possession04:49 Drag shows to resume on campus at West Texas A&M05:47 Samaritan's Purse responds to flash flooding in WisconsinSubscribe to this PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle PodcastsOvercastFollow Us on Social Media@ChristianPost on TwitterChristian Post on Facebook@ChristianPostIntl on InstagramSubscribe on YouTubeGet the Edifi AppDownload for iPhoneDownload for AndroidSubscribe to Our NewsletterSubscribe to the Freedom Post, delivered every Monday and ThursdayClick here to get the top headlines delivered to your inbox every morning!Links to the NewsJames Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family, dies at 89 | U.S.Target urged to reinstate DEI policies as CEO announces exit | BusinessSBC launches revamped helpline to combat sex abuse in churches | Church & MinistriesMuseum of Bible unveils first-ever Scripture sneakers | SportsFormer Life.Church intern charged with child porn possession | U.S.Drag shows to resume on campus at West Texas A&M | U.S.Samaritan's Purse responds to flash flooding in Wisconsin | U.S.
When the Soviet Union collapsed, Frances Fukuyama famously declared that we had reached the “end of history.” He meant that the big arguments, the major ideological struggles, were now all in the past, and that liberal democracy would prevail from then on. The rest would be just cordial arguments about policy. That peaceful kingdom has obviously not come to pass. Some might argue that Fukuyama's core thesis is still true. Liberal democracy lacks a coherent, universal rival. No alternative ideology has matched its global appeal or institutional resilience. Even authoritarian regimes adopt democratic trappings (e.g., elections in Russia) to gain legitimacy, implicitly acknowledging liberal democracy's normative power. That said, Fukuyama clearly underestimated internal challenges within democracies—polarization, disinformation, and inequality—evident in events like the U.S. Capitol riot or Brexit. These weaken the system's appeal and stability. While history may not have “ended,” liberal democracy remains a dominant, yet contested, paradigm. Its triumph is neither inevitable nor complete, as cultural, economic, and political forces continue to shape ideological battles globally. These are some of the issues that Hunter Baker looks at in his new book Postliberal Protestants: Baptists Between Obergefell and Christian Nationalism. And, if you're not Baptist, don't be turned off by the sub-title. Baker argues – I think convincingly – that the Southern Baptist Convention, the largest protestant denomination in the country, is in some ways a proxy for all of evangelicalism. I think he's mostly right, and that's why I think his book should be read not just by Baptists, but by all Christian leaders who want to have a role in shaping important public conversations in the 2020s and beyond. Also, Hunter Baker's argument for religious liberty – a cause long championed by Southern Baptists – is one that I think bears particular attention in this era in which we've seen a resurgence of religious intolerance both in the United States and around the world. Hunter Baker has both a law degree and a Ph.D., and he's the provost and dean of faculty at North Greenville University, in South Carolina. He is the author of four books, and you may have seen his byline at WORLD Magazine, where he is a frequent contributor to WORLD Opinions. In a spirit of full disclosure, I should also say that Hunter is a friend, someone I turn to regularly for counsel and fellowship. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. Until next time, may God bless you.
On today's program, a third prosecutor has been appointed in the trial of Anglican Church in North America Bishop Stewart Ruch after the first two resigned. The Bishop is on trial with the denomination for welcoming abusers into the church, and minimizing the needs of abuse survivors. A North Carolina church was the victim of an online scam that stole nearly $800 thousand from their new building fund. That was two years ago—we'll look at where the church is now. Plus, Brent Leatherwood resigns from the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, just one year after being fired…then unfired. Leatherwood led the agency for four contentious years. We'll have details. First, the defense attorney in a lawsuit involving T.D. Jakes has been sanctioned by the court for using artificial intelligence in the preparation of court documents. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. We get database and other technical support from Stephen DuBarry, Rod Pitzer, and Casey Sudduth. Writers who contributed to today's program include Kim Roberts, Kathryn Post, Daniel Ritchie, Bob Smietana, Katie Ruth Bowes, and Isaac Wood. A special thanks to the Biblical Recorder and The NonProfit Times for contributing material for this week's podcast. Until next time, may God bless you. MANUSCRIPT: FIRST SEGMENT Warren: Hello everybody. I'm Warren Smith, coming to you from Charlotte, North Carolina. Christina: And I'm Christina Darnell, in for Natasha Cowden this week, and we'd like to welcome you to the MinistryWatch podcast. Warren: On today's program, a third prosecutor has been appointed in the trial of Anglican Church in North America Bishop Stewart Ruch after the first two resigned. The Bishop is on trial with the denomination for welcoming abusers into the church, and minimizing the needs of abuse survivors. And, a North Carolina church was the victim of an online scam that stole nearly $800 thousand from their new building fund. That was two years ago—we'll look at where the church is now. Plus, Brent Leatherwood resigns from the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, just one year after being fired…then unfired. Leatherwood led the agency for four contentious years. We'll have details. Christina: But first, the defense attorney in a lawsuit involving T.D. Jakes has been sanctioned by the court for using artificial intelligence in the preparation of court documents. Warren: The attorney is Tyrone Blackburn, and he was defending Duane Youngblood in a defamation lawsuit filed by TD Jakes. Blackburn has been sanctioned by a federal court because he presented documents that contained material fabricated by artificial intelligence. U.S. District Court Judge William Stickman ordered Blackburn to pay over $76-thousand in fees to cover expenses Jakes had to pay to defend himself against the “AI-generated hallucinations and other misrepresentations in Defendant's motion to dismiss briefing.” Christina: Last year, Duane Youngblood accused Jakes of attempted sexual assault. Jakes has maintained his innocence and filed a defamation lawsuit against Youngblood in November 2024. Jakes noted that Youngblood is on parole after felony convictions for sexual assault and corruption of minors. Warren: According to a statement provided to Dallas Morning News, Blackburn said he purchased an A-I program because he doesn't employ paralegals and most of his current clients are pro bono. The A-I program generated its own legal prompts and motions, and contained false quotes and case law. Before he could fix the A-I generated errors, Youngblood asked him to leave the case. Christina: But the judge essentially told him that wasn't an excuse—that he was fully responsible for the accuracy of his legal briefs, regardless of who—or what—contributed to it. It was Blackburn's signature on the document. Warren: Right.
A whites-only community has launched in Arkansas under the legal guise of a “private membership association.” The founders claim it's about preserving culture, but Skye and Phil aren't buying it. Then, Brent Leatherwood, head of the Southern Baptist Convention's public policy arm, has resigned after years of pressure from hardline conservatives. What does his departure reveal about the denomination's political realignment? And, this week's guest is Brandon O'Brien, author of The Strategically Small Church. As American Christianity grapples with shrinking attendance and fading influence, O'Brien offers a compelling vision for why small congregations might be not just inevitable, but essential. Also Phil learns way too much about penguin poop. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/135810167/ 0:00 - Show Starts 3:30 - Theme Song 3:50 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout. 4:45 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/HOLYPOST to receive 50% off your first order 6:15 - Penguin Poop Saves the World? 15:50 - Whites-Only Community in Arkansas? 28:47 - SBC Commission President Steps Down! 43:48 - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 25% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST 44:55 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month 46:05 - Sponsor - Church at the Crossroads - How should churches respond to the crisis in Gaza? Join a conference to break the silence. Go to https://www.churchatthecrossroads.com and use code HOLYPOST for 20% off! 47:21 - Interview 51:09 - Appetite for Small Churches? 59:00 - Beholden to Budget 1:09:15 - Unanxious 1:20:46 - End Credits Links from News Segment: All White Community in Arkansas: https://news.sky.com/story/inside-the-whites-only-settlement-in-arkansas-the-group-building-a-fortress-for-the-white-race-13399875 Brent Leatherwood Steps Down: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/07/erlc-brent-leatherwood-resign-sbc-southern-baptist-politics/ Other Resources: The Strategically Small Church: Intimate, Authentic, and Effective by Brandon J. O'Brien: https://a.co/d/fgdjXcQ Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/ Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
To put the question even more pointedly, with lots of stereotyping to go round, when do Lutherans of German descent who settled mainly in the northern mid-western states pay attention to Baptists in the South? This was the subject of the recent recording when co-hosts, Korey Maas (Lutheran), Miles Smith (Anglican), and D. G. Hart (Presbyterian) discussed Scott Yenor's article on what Southern Baptist conservatives might learn from Missouri Synod Lutherans about "the left's" attack on denominational institutions. Part of the discussion involved the Southern Baptist Convention's place in conservative politics and the New Calvinist movement. Another part involved the dark side of church politics -- how much officers and members need to strategize and organize to defeat opponents within a communion where everyone is supposed to agree. Articles the co-hosts mentioned included: Korey Maas on the controversy in the LCMS over Concordia Seminary, St. Louis; and the place of civil rights politics in the LCMS controversy. For any Presbyterians who might see parallels in the Lutheran and Baptist controversies with the Presbyterian conflict of the 1920s, especially over control of seminaries, this discussion at The Reformed Forum may be of use. This episode's sponor is the National Public Radio show, "Wait Wait Don't Tell Me."
Dr. Matthew Barrett recently announced that he is leaving the Southern Baptist Convention and joining the Anglican tradition, citing his shift to paedobaptism as a major factor. In his announcement, he references Acts 2:39—“For the promise is for you and for your children…”—as part of the biblical basis for this change.In this video, we take a closer look at that verse. Does Acts 2:39 actually support the practice of infant baptism? Is it a strong argument against believer's baptism as held by Baptists?Let's explore five key reasons why this verse does not teach paedobaptism—and why the broader context actually reinforces the Baptist view of baptism as a response of personal faith.Support the showGET THE NEWSLETTEREach edition of the Reasonable Theology newsletter contains my latest article or podcast episode PLUS: A Theological Word or Phrase Explained Quickly and Clearly A Painting Depicting a Scene from Scripture or Church History Audio of a Hymn or other Musical Selection to Enjoy A Recommended Book or Resource to Expand Your Library SUBSCRIBE HERE
Recently, Tasha attended the Southern Baptist Convention and set up a make-shift studio, live, in the Prestonwood Pregnancy Center Experience in the Exhibit Hall. Today, she previews these conversations. Show Notes:https://prestonwoodpregnancy.orghttps://danieldarling.comhttps://redemptioncityfw.com/who-we-are/https://prestonwoodwomen.orghttps://www.lifeway.com/en/events/feast/dallas
In this episode, Jay and Johnna debrief the 2025 Southern Baptist Convention annual meeting. They discuss why Johnna chose to attend alone, the deaths of two high-profile survivors—Jennifer Lyell and Duane Rollins—and the emotional and physical toll survivor advocacy has taken. They reflect on the SBC's failure to follow through on promised reforms, the lack of accountability, and the ongoing harm caused by the institution's refusal to meaningfully address abuse. The episode also explores the role of power, complicity, and silence within evangelical culture, as well as the broader implications for churches and Christian communities across the country.Support the show
This week Erin captains a boat from Vancouver to Bowen Island, and Bryan has some kitchen mold remediation but still attends the WeHo No King's Day protest. Erin reviews an article from Atmos where climate policy experts Vivian Taylor and Philip Newell share their discoveries of fossil fuel billionaires funneling money into the anti-trans movement to distract from their actions affecting climate change. Bryan covers the Southern Baptist Convention which gathered this month to endorse a resolution to overturn the legalization of same-sex marriage and called for laws to oppose gender identity recognition. For tickets to Bryan's Edinburgh shows this summer visit www.bryansafi.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jon delves into the alarming trend of evangelical churches being remade from within. Through chilling accounts and documentary evidence from churches like First Baptist Church in Naples, FL, McLean Bible Church in Virginia, and Faith Baptist Church in Knightdale, NC, Harris exposes a coordinated effort to infiltrate and redirect congregations toward progressive cultural values, often without their knowledge. From silencing dissent and redefining theological language to dismantling cherished ministries and traditions, these calculated takeovers—linked to powerful institutions like the Southern Baptist Convention—threaten the very identity of American Christianity. Order Against the Waves: Againstthewavesbook.comCheck out Jon's Music: jonharristunes.comTo Support the Podcast: https://www.worldviewconversation.com/support/Become a Patronhttps://www.patreon.com/jonharrispodcastFollow Jon on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonharris1989Follow Jon on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonharris1989/Our Sponsors:* Check out TruDiagnostic and use my code HARRIS for a great deal: https://www.trudiagnostic.comSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/conversations-that-matter8971/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
In this episode, Dinesh considers the latest terrorist attack in Denver as the starting point for a larger question, “Is Islam compatible with Western democracy?” William Wolfe, founder of the Center for Baptist Leadership, joins Dinesh to document George Soros influence over the supposedly-conservative Southern Baptist Convention.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Segment 1: • The Southern Baptist Convention heads to Dallas—and tensions are rising. • Debates over the ERLC's purpose and women's roles in the church resurface. • Millions of dollars are at stake—are they fueling mission or bureaucracy? Segment 2: • Todd questions if the SBC is investing more in politics than people. • Al Mohler even questions the ERLC's effectiveness—so what now? • What if those dollars were redirected to direct gospel work? Segment 3: • The SBC wants unity—but disagreements over essentials threaten that goal. • True unity can't be built on compromise—it must be rooted in truth. • The Lord's Table reminds us: sin is deep, but grace is deeper. Segment 4: • As the SBC meets, deeper questions loom: Are we majoring in minors? • MacArthur and Sproul once showed how to disagree without dividing. • Maybe it's time to refocus on the gospel and rediscover love for God. ___ 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 Southern Baptist Convention is the largest protestant Christian body in the United States, granting it a powerful influence over religious life in the country. The average churchgoers in the SBC are some of the most conservative people in the country, but organizational leadership often cuts against the beliefs of the average member. William Wolfe, executive director of the Center for Baptist Leadership, joins me to discuss the importance of the organization's upcoming meeting in Dallas and how to purge the influence of nefarious actors like George Soros. Also, sorry about the audio on this one, there was a microphone issue but everything is up and running now. Follow on: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-auron-macintyre-show/id1657770114 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3S6z4LBs8Fi7COupy7YYuM?si=4d9662cb34d148af Substack: https://auronmacintyre.substack.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuronMacintyre Gab: https://gab.com/AuronMacIntyre YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/AuronMacIntyre Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-390155 Odysee: https://odysee.com/@AuronMacIntyre:f Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/auronmacintyre/ Today's sponsors: Visit : https://www.angel.com/auron Follow https://x.com/WillHild Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the last episode of All the Buried Women, co-hosts Beth Allison Barr and Savannah Locke explore the story behind a confidential letter in the SBC'S archives that leads to a pastor's wife named Maria. They also look at the Southern Baptist Convention's decision to expel churches that ordain women, critiquing the rhetoric of unity and biblical authority used to justify the exclusion of women from leadership roles Last, the episode draws on the lost portrait of Saint Fabiola as a symbol of women's enduring resistance, urging listeners to recognize the hidden stories of women who continue to challenge oppressive structures in the church. We reached out to the SBC, Paige Patterson, Darryl Gilyard, Tommy Gilmore, and the Council for National Policy for comment, and did not hear back. All the Buried Women is presented by The Bible for Normal People. Credits: Hosts: Beth Allison Barr and Savannah Locke Producer: Savannah Locke Writing and Editing: Beth Allison Barr and Savannah Locke Sound Editing and Music: Savannah Locke and Todd Locke Introduction and Closing Song: Jaded by Savannah Locke Special Thanks (in order of appearance): Leanne Friesen, CBOQ, and the many anonymous interviewees willing to share their memories of Maria Partner Organization: The Bible for Normal People Additional Thanks: Andy Clark, Systems Administrator within the University Libraries at Baylor University; Erin Smith, Marketing Manager at Baker Publishing Group; Jordan Corona; Dr. Taffey Hall, Director of the Southern Baptist Historical Library and Archives; Brittany Prescott, Podcast Producer for The Bible for Normal People; Adam McCullough, Archivist of Canadian Baptist Archives at McMaster Divinity College; Gordon Heath, Director of Canadian Baptist Archives at McMaster Divinity College; Rev. Leanne Friesen, Executive Minister of Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec (CBOQ) and CBOQ executive board; and Audrey and Alex from Lawyers for Reporters. Social Media Links: Follow us on Instagram: @alltheburiedwomen @bethallisonbarr @savannah_locke @thebiblefornormalpeople Subscribe to Beth's Substack: https://bethallisonbarr.substack.com Subscribe to Savannah's Substack: https://savannahlocke.substack.com Promo Code: Use code PODCAST40 to get 40% off Becoming the Pastor's Wife until April 30th through Baker Publishing Group's Website: http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/becoming-the-pastor-s-wife/414910 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In Episode 4 of All the Buried Women, co-hosts Beth Allison Barr and Savannah Locke share the story of Christa Brown, a sexual abuse survivor and advocate. Her experience reflects the broader issue of clergy abuse, where victims are often silenced and blamed, while abusers are protected and transferred to new congregations. The episode also highlights Pooler's research on the harmful psychological impacts of clergy sexual abuse, including PTSD rates higher than those of combat veterans, and the Southern Baptist Convention's (SBC) ongoing failure to protect victims. We reached out to the SBC, Paige Patterson, Darryl Gilyard, Tommy Gilmore, and the Council for National Policy for comment, and did not hear back. All the Buried Women is presented by The Bible for Normal People. Credits: Hosts: Beth Allison Barr and Savannah Locke Producer: Savannah Locke Writing and Editing: Beth Allison Barr and Savannah Locke Sound Editing and Music: Savannah Locke and Todd Locke Introduction and Closing Song: Jaded by Savannah Locke Special Thanks (in order of appearance): Christa Brown (Get Christa's newest book Baptistland: A Memoir of Abuse, Betrayal, and Transformation!), David Pooler, Robert Downen, Rosalie Beck, Meredith Stone, and Barry Hankins Partner Organization: The Bible for Normal People Additional Thanks: Andy Clark, Systems Administrator within the University Libraries at Baylor University; Erin Smith, Marketing Manager at Baker Publishing Group; Jordan Corona; Dr. Taffey Hall, Director of the Southern Baptist Historical Library and Archives; Brittany Prescott, Podcast Producer for The Bible for Normal People; Adam McCullough, Archivist of Canadian Baptist Archives at McMaster Divinity College; Gordon Heath, Director of Canadian Baptist Archives at McMaster Divinity College; Rev. Leanne Friesen, Executive Minister of Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec (CBOQ) and CBOQ executive board; and Audrey and Alex from Lawyers for Reporters. Social Media Links: Follow us on Instagram: @alltheburiedwomen @bethallisonbarr @savannah_locke @thebiblefornormalpeople Subscribe to Beth's Substack: https://bethallisonbarr.substack.com Subscribe to Savannah's Substack: https://savannahlocke.substack.com Promo Code: Use code PODCAST40 to get 40% off Becoming the Pastor's Wife until April 30th through Baker Publishing Group's Website: http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/becoming-the-pastor-s-wife/414910 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices