Wed, 27 October 2021
Conservative evangelicals organized into a political movement in the 1970s in response to the Supreme Court’s decision to legalize abortion. Or did they? Historian Randall Balmer argues this origin story for the Religious Right is a myth. He talks to Skye about the real origins of the movement and how it explains the current state of white evangelicalism. Also this week, we unpack Peter Wehner’s article in The Atlantic about the breaking apart of evangelicalism. Is the church a victim of media manipulation, or is evangelicalism reaping its own rotten fruit? Plus, lawsuits between believers, training Christians for hand-to-hand combat in vehicles, and Phil’s massive magical mushroom. News Segment: Phil’s mushroom [2:47] Christians training in hand-to-hand combat [8:39] Mike Stone suing Russell Moore [13:14] “The Evangelical Church is Breaking Apart” [28:01] Interview with Randall Balmer: PATREON BONUS: https://www.patreon.com/posts/57900540 “Bad Faith: Race and the Rise of the Religious Right” - https://amzn.to/3btjt7D Interview Start [52:40] Context for approaching this study [54:23]
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. |
Wed, 20 October 2021
The prosperity gospel isn’t just about health and wealth. Historian Kate Bowler says pragmatic values, simple solutions, and the endless quest for self-improvement, have infected most of the church in subtle ways. Kaitlyn Schiess talks to Dr. Bowler about her own battle with cancer, and how it’s helped her move beyond cliches like “Everything happens for a reason,” to embrace the larger mystery of faith. Also this week, have elite evangelicals sold out to the mainstream media, or have populist evangelicals sold out to Trump voters? Everyone seems to be talking about the divide within evangelicalism, but is it really something new? The Holy Post crew looks at the arguments and how we could be seeing the latest version of a very old divide. Plus, Phil is fascinated by left-handed ghost squirrels. News Segment: Traveling with moss [1:38] Animal Facts [5:34] The divide within evangelicalism [14:40] https://www.theamericanconservative.com/articles/church-state-and-the-future-of-evangelicalism/ https://markgalli.substack.com/p/the-galli-report-100821 https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/evangelical-elites-fighting-each https://www.firstthings.com/article/2021/11/the-failure-of-evangelical-elites Interview with Kate Bowler: Interview Start [52:19]
Kate’s Story [55:57] “Blessed - A History of the American Prosperity Gospel” - https://amzn.to/2Z1aBD2“ No Cure for Being Human” Title [1:00:14] Certainty vs. faith[1:05:31] American pragmatism and “useful pain” [1:07:32] Understanding fear and living after crisis [1:11:24] Response and engagement with these books [1:18:57] The miracle of moments [1:23:35] 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. |
Wed, 13 October 2021
This week is a special a double feature! First, Phil talks to Esau McCaulley about his recent NY Times editorial about President Biden’s vengeance against terrorists in Afghanistan. McCaulley asks why so few Christian politicians seem to have Christian instincts, and what role should forgiveness have in American foreign policy. Then, Skye interviews author and podcaster Jamie Ivey about her experience as a white mom raising black kids, how it’s changed her understanding of race, and why she no longer believes love can solve every problem. Also this week—new polling indicates a frightening number of people on both the right and left want to disunite the country. Are we on a path toward civil war, and is social media to blame? News Segment Trump voters are worried about anti-white discrimination and think Christianity is under attack [4:00] https://news.yahoo.com/84-trump-voters-worry-discrimination-143538052.html https://twitter.com/robertpjones/status/1447601670595223557 People on the right and left wanting to disunite the country [15:10] https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10050039/More-HALF-Trump-voters-want-red-states-secede-union.html Interview w/ Esau McCaulley Interview Start: [25:41] “The Dangerous Politics of ‘We Will Not Forgive’” https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/19/opinion/revenge-forgiveness-terrorism-biden.html “Reading While Black” https://amzn.to/3lxPtx5 Interview with Jamie Ivey: The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey: https://www.jamieivey.com/podcast-2/ “God Made You to Be You” https://amzn.to/3BEHmnX Ivey Family Interview with Emmanuel Acho: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONTXrsvenUY Interview Start: [54:14] The decision to adopt [58:48] Jamie’s background [1:00:54] Parenting differently and the church’s response [1:08:54] Connecting kids with black heritage [1:19:50] Frustration and hope with the church [1:28:12] 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. |
Wed, 6 October 2021
Friend of the show Derwin Gray has a new book! When did he have time to write it? We don’t know! But he also found time to sit down with Skye and talk about it. Derwin says the Lord’s Prayer isn’t just a prayer, but an entire catechism of faith, a lesson in communing with God, and a call for the people of God to engage in issues of justice. He unpacks it all with Skye. And did scientists find the biblical city of Sodom? Have psychologists found the number one predictor of atheism? And a new study finds that young Brits are twice as likely to pray regularly than their elders! What’s up with that?? Mike Erre joins Kaitlyn and Phil to parse the news of the day on this week’s Holy Post! Did scientists find the biblical city of Sodom? [6:47] Predicting atheism in adulthood [20:50] Young people in the UK are twice as likely as older people to pray regularly [35:27] Other links: Interview with Derwin Gray “God, Do You Hear Me?” Amazon: https://amzn.to/3my2Ooy Interview Start [50:12] 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. |
Wed, 29 September 2021
Philip Yancey is one of the best-selling contemporary Christian authors, and his books helped millions find a more authentic faith long before “deconstruction” was a hashtag. His new memoir, “Where the Light Fell,” tells how he escaped the racist, fundamentalist Christianity of his youth, and his lifelong quest to find God’s grace in a world of suffering. Yancey also sympathizes with the ex-vangelical movement, and shares his concerns for the direction of the faith in America. Also this week, reactions to Josh McDowell’s decision to step back from ministry for a season of listening. Could llama spit end the pandemic? Everyone is spinning the new Pew research about evangelicals to fit their own agenda. Phil doubles down in his footwear battle with the Dutch. And, your butt is a snowflake. News Segment: 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. |
Fri, 24 September 2021
Senior editor of The Dispatch and constitutional attorney, David French, and Holy Post co-host, Skye Jethani, discuss why the executive committee of the Southern Baptist Convention should waive their attorney-client privilege in the ongoing abuse investigation. Then, French explains why the increase in self-identified evangelicals between 2016 and 2020 isn’t good news, and why he now puts “evangelicals” in three different buckets. Finally, they examine claims from some neo-fundamentalists that empathy is a sin. French says the problem in America isn’t too much empathy, but selective empathy. SBC Executive Committee review [1:17] Defining “evangelical” [15:28] “The American Crisis of Selective Empathy” [33:26] |
Wed, 22 September 2021
Data from the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) has found that white Christians—including mainline Protestants, Catholics, and evangelicals—are the most racist religious group in America, Robert P. Jones, the CEO of PRRI, says this isn’t a bug within white American Christianity, but a feature. He discusses his new book “White Too Long” about the lingering legacy of white supremacy in the church. Also this week, apologist Josh McDowell joins those saying CRT is the greatest threat facing the church, but does his argument contradict itself? Why is belief in miracles going up if overall belief in religion is going down? Phil says we shouldn’t worry about scientists trying to resurrect woolly mammoths. Christian explains why she’s in the Netherlands. And police in the UK issue a warning about kids buying beans. News Segment Where in the world is Christian? [00:47] Christian’s research and wooden shoes [4:51]Police issue warning over children ‘buying large quantities of cans of beans’ [9:31] Firm raises $15m to bring back woolly mammoth from extinction [16:44] Josh McDowell’s speech and apology [22:45] New stat: Do you believe in religious miracles? [35:41] Interview with Robert P. Jones PRRI - https://www.prri.org“The End of White Christian America” - https://amzn.to/3Eu1OK2“White Too Long: The Legacy of White Supremacy in America Christianity” - https://amzn.to/3ArH57r PATREON BONUS: https://www.patreon.com/posts/56402290/Interview Start [44:18] The white Christian shuffle [48:26]Al Mohler and the SBC’s racist history [51:35]https://www.baptistpress.com/resource-library/news/first-person-racial-superiority-confronting-the-truth/ Theology of white Christianity [55:31] Data from “Deep Roots: How Slavery Still Shapes Southern Politics” [1:07:59] More data: Thermometer vs. race index [1:11:10] United Daughters of the Confederacy - catechisms [1:15:24] Does church attendance affect racist attitudes? [1:20:22] 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. |
Wed, 15 September 2021
Why are people inside the church often no healthier or happier than those outside? Author Alan Noble says we are suffering from a kind of mass psychosis and going to church won’t solve it. His new book, “You Are Not Your Own” challenges our understanding of identity and purpose, and calls us to a less modern, more Christian, vision of life. Also this week, progressive philosopher and political activist, Cornel West, says liberals need Jesus. What can we learn from him about critiquing our own tribe rather than judging others’. Plus, are white evangelicals keeping the guitar industry alive? And Phil brings us a new batch of animal news. Has the shark messiah been born in Italy? News Segment: Australian ducks learn how to swear [2:47] Rare shark “virgin birth” [5:20] Fender: 1 in 3 guitars are bought by people who play in worship bands [8:52] “Cornel West on Why the Left Needs Jesus” and critiquing our own tribe [10:58] “The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill” podcast [22:25] PATREON BONUS: https://www.patreon.com/posts/56161614 Interview with Alan Noble: “You Are Not Your Own: Belonging to God in an Inhuman World” - https://amzn.to/3ntxAAV Interview Start [31:35] 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 |
Wed, 8 September 2021
Last week, Texas passed a law effectively banning abortion after the sixth week of pregnancy, and the Supreme Court did not immediately strike it down. Both pro-life and pro-choice advocates have erupted in response. But what does the law really mean? Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn get into the weeds and explain why the Texas law isn’t the victory many assume. Then, Christina Dent shares about her unexpected journey from a conservative, Southern, Bible school graduate, to drug legalization advocate. She tells Skye about the unexpected casualties caused by America’s war on drugs, and what a more Christian response to the crisis could look like. Plus, China bans kids from playing video games. Is it a smart policy we should copy, or proof that communism is evil? News Segment: China bans kids from playing video games during the week [9:51] Recent abortion law in Texas - overview & discussion [19:52] https://religionnews.com/2021/06/30/common-ground-on-abortion-is-staring-us-right-in-the-face/ Interview with Christina Dent: End It For Good: https://www.enditforgood.com Holy Post Episode 433 with Bonnie Kristian: https://www.holypost.com/post/episode-433-ending-the-war-on-drugs-with-bonnie-kristian Interview Start [52:52] |
Wed, 1 September 2021
Former megachurch pastor, evangelical wunderkind, and author of “I Kissed Dating Goodbye,” Josh Harris, has since left his wife and renounced his faith. He’s now pitching himself as an expert guide for other ex-vangelicals. What does his story tell us about the evangelical subculture? Then, strange things are happening at John Piper’s church in Minneapolis where leaders are clashing over issues of race and abuse. And some pastors are resigning after being accused of “the sin of empathy.” Then, Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel return to discuss revisions to their 2017 book “The Way of the Dragon or the Way of the Lamb.” They stopped selling the book and revised it because one of the Christian leaders they celebrated as a “lamb” turned out to be a “dragon.” They’re now asking, why do we so often fail to spot toxic church leaders? Plus, scientists are making mini-brains from stem cells. But to their surprise, the brains have grown eyes. Leading Phil to ask, What could possibly go wrong? News Segment Updates from the crew (Jason’s cinnamon rolls and Christian’s film) [1:49] Stem cell mini-brains with eyes [7:45] https://www.sciencealert.com/scientists-used-stem-cells-to-make-mini-brains-they-grew-rudimentary-eyes Josh Harris [16:21] “Bethlehem Baptist Leaders clash over ‘coddling’ and ‘cancel culture’” [33:20] Interview with Jamin Goggin & Kyle Strobel Episode 238 (Prior conversation with Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel): BONUS Patreon question: What do we do with the content and impact from toxic leaders? Interview Start [1:00:39] Why is there a new edition? [1:02:37] Original story and role of book [1:06:35] How they processed the news of Jean Vanier’s abusive behavior [1:10:43] Discerning wolves from lambs - is there hope for progress? [1:16:17] Ministering to people who have been deceived and hurt [1:24:04] |
Fri, 27 August 2021
Is the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan the right policy? And will abandoning the country ultimately cost more American lives than staying? And who’s really to blame for the mess that’s unfolding? Skye talks with David French about these issues and more in this special bonus interview. French is the senior editor of The Dispatch, an attorney, the author of numerous books, and an Iraq War veteran. This bonus episode features the first half of Skye’s hour long conversation with David French. The full 60 minute interview is available exclusively for Holy Post patreon supporters. Full Interview with David French: https://www.patreon.com/posts/55322869 The Dispatch: https://thedispatch.com Three stages of recent events in Afghanistan [2:26] Response to refugee resettlement objections [8:53] Effect of US withdrawal on future US military credibility [21:12] |
Wed, 25 August 2021
With religious believers among the most likely to downplay the seriousness of both the pandemic and climate change, a recent article claims secular people and atheists are now more empathic and moral than conservative Christians. But is the problem really that evangelicals are less moral, or that they’re more easily deceived? Then, Matthew Soerens from World Relief talks about the unfolding tragedy in Afghanistan. What dangers do the thousands of Afghans who helped the American military face as the Taliban takes back the country, and what obligation does the U.S. have to help them? While evangelicals remain widely opposed to welcoming refugees, will they make an exception for those who risked their lives to help American troops? Plus, a strike at Nabisco threatens the country’s Oreo supply, launching Phil into a rant about cookie varieties and late stage capitalism. Patreon Bonus with David French: https://www.patreon.com/posts/55322869 News Segment: Nabisco strike and Phil’s rant about cookie varieties [4:22] https://www.today.com/food/workers-us-nabisco-bakeries-are-strike-t228753 Afghanistan, Haiti, wildfires, floods, heatwaves and droughts [19:12] Christian’s history with Afghanistan [20:40] Current situation in Afghanistan [24:40] Are Christians less empathic and moral, or simply more easily deceived? (Discussion of article below) [32:50] https://www.salon.com/2021/08/21/staunch-atheists-show-higher-morals-than-the-proudly-pious-from-the-pandemic-to-climate-change/ Interview with Matthew Soerens: “Welcoming the Stranger: Justice, Compassion & Truth in the Immigration Debate” - https://www.amazon.com/Welcoming-Stranger-Justice-Compassion-Immigration/dp/0830833595 Interview Start [56:00] Talking with church leaders about Afghanistan crisis [58:00] Overview of current situation and America’s history/promises in Afghanistan [59:24] Responding to the rhetoric that opposes welcoming refugees [1:08:20] https://twitter.com/cortessteve/status/1427839604376444929? lang=en Evangelical Immigration Table - Statement to President Biden [1:12:34] Practical ways to support [1:14:22] Ongoing crisis - DREAMers and DACA program [1:17:01] https://evangelicalimmigrationtable.com/advocacy/ |
Wed, 18 August 2021
The United Nations World Happiness Report is out, and it says the United States is still behind the world’s happiest countries. Can we learn anything from them, or does America’s diversity mean perpetual conflict? Then, pastor and author Mandy Smith says Western culture has warped our understanding of what it means to be a Christian by focusing too much on knowledge and power. The antidote? Embracing Jesus’ call to childlike faith. Also this week—covid skeptics have some explaining to do because last year life expectancy in the US dropped the most since WWII—and it wasn’t because of murder hornets. Plus, a woman sues McDonald’s for tempting her to break her Lenten fast. News Segment: Woman sues McDonald’s after burger ad compelled her to break Lent fast [2:55] https://nypost.com/2021/08/06/woman-sues-mcdonalds-after-burger-ad-made-her-break-her-lent-fast/ COVID-19 caused U.S. life expectancy to drop 1.5 years [09:38] https://time.com/6082192/covid-19-us-life-expectancy-drop/ White evangelical COVID-19 vaccine acceptance has jumped 11 points since March [09:38] https://www.relevantmagazine.com/current/nation/study-white-evangelical-covid-19-vaccine-acceptance-has-jumped-11-points-since-march/ UN report on global happiness [21:47] https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2019/03/21/americans-are-unhappiest-theyve-ever-been-un-report-finds-an-epidemic-addictions-could-be-blame/ Interview with Mandy Smith: Unfettered: Imagining a Childlike Faith beyond the Baggage of Western Culture - https://amzn.to/3nhS6o7 Interview Start [48:06] How is Western civilization in a tailspin? [49:56] An antidote for two false ways of engaging faith [52:35] Qualities of a childlike faith [56:01] Wholistic faith and childlikeness [57:29] Humility & honesty within disorder [01:00:37] Error in overreacting to rationality of Western culture [01:05:21] Story about dancing, healing, and releasing control [01:10:31] Reconciling the call to maturity with a childlike faith [01:19:59] Other resources mentioned:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1hiPIEqDMq2yobve2PyTH7?si=4ab2ce3ebf7d4bbb (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.) |
Wed, 11 August 2021
Phil’s Facebook page erupted after the recent episode about reparations—leading the Holy Post gang to ask about the limits of evangelical theology, and how American individualism has shaped our understanding of liberty, economics, and even theology. Then, a prayer service in Portland became a brawl between Proud Boys and Antifa involving paintball guns. Is it a harbinger of more conflicts to come? And a new survey finds Americans are far more confident than Brits they could triumph in a fight against a lion, a chimpanzee, and even an elephant. Then, Skye talks to Kara Powell, the Executive Director of the Fuller Youth Institute, about her latest book, “3 Big Questions That Change Every Teenager.” Based on extensive research, Powell explains the unique challenges young people face today, and how parents and churches can engage them with empathy while creating the right conditions for them to grow in faith. PATREON BONUS: https://www.patreon.com/posts/54764019 News Segment: Animal News: What animals could you beat in a fight? [3:16]
Proud Boys and Antifa clash at Portland prayer service [13:25] Reparations, institutional responsibility, and responses on Phil’s Facebook page [19:10] Anthony Bradley - Twitter thread on collective sin [20:49]
Individualism and collectivism [27:55]
Interview with Kara Powell: 3 Big Questions That Change Every Teenager (special link for Holy Post listeners) - https://fulleryouthinstitute.org/3-big-questions/holypostInterview Start [50:28] Recap of research leading to latest book [51:41]
Qualities of an empathetic church [53:54]
Three big questions (Identity, Belonging, Purpose) [59:41] Question 1: Identity [1:02:53] Role of technology [1:07:27] Question 2: Belonging [1:12:06] Mistakes for churches to avoid [1:16:16] Questions to spark more questions [1:22:06] Essential qualities for churches to shepherd young people [1:24:28]Other resources mentioned: |
Wed, 4 August 2021
It seems like everyone is talking about the new podcast from Christianity Today, “The Rise & Fall of Mars Hill” about the famed Seattle megachurch and its controversial pastor, Mark Driscoll. The creator of the podcast, Mike Cosper, talks to Skye about the complicated reality of Mars Hill, and what the rest of the evangelical church can learn from its story. Also this week, scientists discover a parasite that could make you live for 200 years, keep you perpetually young, and make you popular. But there’s a catch. A woman lets God take the wheel, literally. The Creation Museum in Kentucky thinks rebuilding the Tower of Babel in the key to racial harmony. And Phil’s confused about an Olympic team’s decision to wear shorts rather than the mandated bikini bottoms. Is it a victory for conservative or progressive values? https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2021/05/ant-tapeworm/618919/ https://jalopnik.com/woman-crashes-into-multiple-cars-and-a-house-at-120-mph-1847319454 The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill: https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill/ Patreon Bonus Segment: https://www.patreon.com/posts/bonus-interview-54513169 |
Wed, 28 July 2021
Earlier this year, Gregory Thompson and Duke Kwon released their book “Reparations: A Christian Call for Repentance and Repair,” in which they make a biblical argument for the American church’s responsibility to repay the debts inflicted upon black communities by systemic racism and white supremacy. In this moment of political division and evangelical panic over Critical Race Theory, it’s not surprising that responses to the book have been polarized. One of the most negative and widely read reviews came from theologian Kevin DeYoung who said “Reparations” is “clearly not shaped by the gospel.” Thompson and Kwon then wrote a lengthy and detailed response to DeYoung’s review. (Links to both are posted below.) In this episode, Thompson talks to Skye about the debate, criticism of his book, and what the white evangelical response to racism reveals about its theology, mission, and blind spots. Phil and Christian then join Skye to discuss Thompson’s interview, and Christian shares a personal story to remind us all that change is possible. “Reparations: A Christian Call for Repentance and Repair” - https://amzn.to/3jUMMov Kevin DeYoung Review - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevin-deyoung/reparations-a-critical-theological-review/ Review Response 1 - https://thefrontporch.org/2021/07/sanctifying-the-status-quo-a-response-to-reverend-kevin-deyoung/ Review Response 2 - https://thefrontporch.org/2021/07/distinctively-christian-an-additional-response-to-reverend-kevin-deyoung/ Other resources referenced: "The Sum of Us" - https://amzn.to/3tqEY0V (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.) |
Wed, 21 July 2021
When news broke that the new president of the SBC lifted portions of his message from the previous SBC president’s sermon without attribution, #Sermongate erupted. The Holy Post crew unpacks the controversy, why so many pastors either outsource their sermon prep or plagiarize, and why the pressure to preach may be harming the church. Then, in a dramatic reversal, new data from Pew says mainline churches are growing while evangelical churches are shrinking. Have evangelicals been burned by their own critique that mainline churches don’t take the Bible seriously? Then, author and advocate Mary DeMuth explains the history of sexual abuse in the church, why cover ups are now so common, how we can respond more redemptively, and the best ways to prevent abuse in the first place. Plus—good news! Scientists say we have a back-up breathing option if our lungs fail. https://www.cnet.com/news/scientists-say-mammals-can-breathe-through-their-butts-in-emergencies/ https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/06/us/sermongate-plagiarism-litton-greear.html https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill/ https://religionnews.com/2021/07/08/survey-white-mainline-protestants-outnumber-white-evangelicals/ https://www.prri.org/research/2020-census-of-american-religion/ https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2021/06/30/behind-bidens-2020-victory/ https://twitter.com/SkyeJethani/status/1410335364116627465 Resources from Mary DeMuth: "We Too: How the Church Can Respond Redemptively to the Sexual Abuse Crisis": https://amzn.to/3tugZOv https://www.wetoo.org/resources/ https://www.wetoo.org/survivors/21days/ A Church Called Tov: https://amzn.to/38Q55F4
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Fri, 16 July 2021
Calvin University history professor Kristin Kobes Du Mez joins Skye Jethani to discuss her bestselling book, "Jesus & John Wayne." In this episode, they look at the rise of Donald Trump among white evangelicals and how their response to the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol mirrors reactions to scandals involving celebrity church leaders. Du Mez also responds to criticism of her book, and where we might find hope for the future of American evangelicalism. Part 1 - Authoritarian Pastors and the Authoritarian President Jesus & John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation: https://amzn.to/3l6mkH
(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.) |
Wed, 14 July 2021
This 4th of July, Hobby Lobby took out a controversial full page newspaper ad featuring quotes, or mis-quotes, from America’s founders about being a Christian nation. An editorial from Robert P. Jones says July 4th is a time to decide what we believe more—the Declaration of Independence that says all people are created equal, or the European doctrine of discovery which enshrined white supremacy? And David French asks what it really means to be a patriot and love our country well as Christians. https://news.yahoo.com/pope-francis-meets-spider-man-130000577.html https://www.hobbylobby.com/about-us/holiday-messages?modal=one+nation+under+god https://www.scarymommy.com/stop-shopping-hobby-lobby-now/ https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/how-do-christian-patriots-love-their Patreon Bonus: https://www.patreon.com/posts/53681162 |
Fri, 9 July 2021
Calvin University history professor Kristin Kobes Du Mez joins Skye Jethani to discuss her bestselling book, “Jesus & John Wayne.” In this episode, they examine why white evangelicalism left behind some of its militant rhetoric after the Cold War ended in the early 1990s to embrace a kinder, gentler approach epitomized by the Promise Keepers movement, and how an aggressive vision of Christian masculinity returned after September 11, 2001. Plus, why an emphasis on racial reconciliation ultimately doomed Promise Keepers, and how other ministries learned to avoid any talk about race or justice. Part 1 - Promise Keepers and Therapeutic Christianity
(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.) |
Wed, 7 July 2021
Phil, Christian, and Skye do a deep dive into George Packer’s recent article in the Atlantic called “How America Fractured into 4 Parts.” Packer argues that Americans no longer agree on the country’s purpose, values, history, or meaning. Is he right? And how do Packer’s 4 Americas map onto the church? Then, Skye interviews Kyle Strobel about his new book “Where Prayer Becomes Real.” Obviously, the book is about prayer but it’s also about something even deeper and more foundational to our faith—honesty. It’s vital for our transformation but in short supply in many churches. Plus, scientists say the earth has a pulse. Did God design the earth to destroy life every 27.5 million years? That sets the Holy Post crew down a path into theology, the problem of evil, and why ferrets are bad pets. Where Prayer Becomes Real: https://amzn.to/3njNRs2 (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.)
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Fri, 2 July 2021
Calvin University history professor Kristin Kobes Du Mez joins Skye Jethani to continue discussing her bestselling book, "Jesus & John Wayne." In this episode, they discuss how evangelicalism fought to maintain traditional authority structures in the home and society, except when those authority structures didn't fit their own political interests which ultimately led to the rise of the Religious Right. Jesus & John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation: https://amzn.to/3l6mkH
(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.)
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Wed, 30 June 2021
Tyler Huckabee, senior editor for Relevant, joins the Holy Post crew to defend his recent article about VeggieTales. Did Phil’s mom trick him into creating vegetable characters who are beyond God’s salvation? Then, over 1,000 Cru staff members say the parachurch ministry’s focus on diversity and racism has resulted in mission drift. Are they right or is it another example of paranoia over CRT? Then, Christian college president D. Michael Lindsay shares about his new book “Hinge Moments: Making the Most of Life’s Transitions,” and the unexpected changes in his own life. Have we misunderstood what it means to follow God’s will, and what can we learn from the best leaders about how to change directions? All that, plus Skye’s cramped cross-country road trip. https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2021/june/cru-divided-over-emphasis-on-race.html https://www.amazon.com/Hinge-Moments-Making-Lifes-Transitions/dp/0830841792 |
Fri, 25 June 2021
Calvin University history professor Kristin Kobes Du Mez joins Skye Jethani (co-host of The Holy Post) to discuss her bestselling book, “Jesus & John Wayne.” In this episode, they discuss how the Cold War shaped and defined American evangelicalism, how it differed from earlier 19th-century evangelicalism, and the lingering effects of the Cold War on the way many white evangelicals still think about culture, politics, and gender. Jesus & John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation: https://amzn.to/3l6mkH
(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.) |
Tue, 22 June 2021
With Skye out of town, Phil invites “hardest working man in evangelicalism” Ed Stetzer to sit in and discuss what went down in Nashville last week when 17,000 Southern Baptists all got in one room. What does it mean for Southern Baptists? What does it mean for evangelicalism? And does the mainstream media know the difference between the two? There were also two very interesting court rulings that came down last week with implications for religious liberty in America. So conservative columnist and civil liberties attorney David French stops by to talk through free-speech cake baking and foster care, and to answer the question - what do we do when defending our own rights pits us against the neighbors we are called to love? Plus... a farmer settles a property line dispute with a neighbor in a, shall we say, odorous way.
https://www.christianpost.com/news/judge-rules-against-christian-baker-in-transgender-cake-case.html https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/under-attack-from-fundamentalist
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Wed, 16 June 2021
Violent crime, including mass shootings, are way up. On average over 300 people are shot everyday in America. In 2013, one of them was Taylor Schumann. She talks with Kaitlyn Schiess about her new book, “When Thoughts and Prayers Aren’t Enough,” and the side of gun violence most of us forget—the survivors. Also this week, the Southern Baptists are meeting in Nashville where, according to the mainstream media, the entire fate of evangelicalism will be decided. Are they right? Plus, Relevant Magazine wonders if Phil’s mom gave him sound advice about VeggieTales, or was she playing 3-dimensional chess to mess with her son’s theology. And, why a lobster diver will be the illustration in every sermon this Sunday. https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/news/2021/06/11/humpback-whale-catches-michael-packard-lobster-driver-mouth-proviencetown-cape-cod/7653838002/ https://www.relevantmagazine.com/culture/never-forget-that-veggietales-werent-allowed-to-show-jesus-as-a-vegetable/ https://mobile.twitter.com/ryanburge/status/1403353463354974234 https://twitter.com/BethMooreLPM/status/1404426835199500296 https://www.amazon.com/When-Thoughts-Prayers-Arent-Enough/dp/0830831703 |
Wed, 9 June 2021
We are bombarded by more news than ever before, and many of us can no longer differentiate what’s real from what’s fake, or what’s important from what’s trivial. Jeffrey Bilbro, author of “Reading the Times: A Literary and Theological Inquiry into the News,” offers wisdom about what it means to engage the media as a Christian, why the first step may be a deeper engagement with our local church, and the value of cultivating a “holy apathy” about current events. Also this week, Phil, Skye, and Christian respond to listener emails. Did Skye contradict one of his own sermons on a recent podcast? And what happened to the pipeline that used to carry kids in the church from birth all the way through college? Phil says it has completely blown up, but is that good or bad? And what does it mean for Christian parents? Plus, Jason is addicted to cinnamon rolls, and the magical musical armor of fireflies. |
Wed, 2 June 2021
It’s been 100 years since the Tulsa Massacre—a dark moment in American history most Americans know nothing about. Which makes Phil, Skye, and Christian wonder, what else don’t we know? Wheaton College has removed the word “savages” from a plaque honoring martyred missionaries. Was the move a result of political correctness or just common decency? Then, Phil’s recent tweet about racism and anti-racism went viral, leading him to ask—when did evangelicals become more committed to preserving the world rather than changing it? Plus, the tables get turned when Skye gets interviewed by Kaitlyn about his newest book “What if Jesus was serious about prayer?” He explains why being a “radical” Christian isn’t what you think, and how prayer is way bigger than just talking to God. Plus, lonely Japanese eels are looking for attention on the internet. https://www.businessinsider.com/video-call-eels-tokyo-aquarium-so-they-dont-forget-people-2020-5 https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/when-our-forefathers-fail https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2021/march/wheaton-college-missionary-plaque-jim-elliot-waorani.html https://twitter.com/philvischer/status/1398297373563133955 https://www.amazon.com/What-Jesus-Serious-About-Prayer/dp/0802424163 |
Wed, 26 May 2021
Our society is more diverse than ever before yet ninety percent of churches in the U.S. remain mono-cultural. Derwin Gray says this isn’t just a problem for the mission of the church, it’s also a betrayal of the gospel itself. He talks with Skye about why he planted a multiethnic church, why so many church leaders resist this calling, and how a fundamental misunderstanding of the gospel is to blame. Also this week, the military has admitted that UFOs are real but doesn’t say if they’re extraterrestrial. If there are aliens, what are the implications for Christian theology? Plus, a new study finds that in countries where Christianity enjoys political power more people abandon the faith. So why do evangelicals want to take back Washington? And Phil wonders if psychedelic cicadas prove the existence of God. Book launch: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whatifjesuswasseriousaboutprayerlaunch/ UFOs: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ufo-military-intelligence-60-minutes-2021-05-16/ lhttps://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08NCWHC1Q/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qP7CFMIttGQ
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Wed, 19 May 2021
Hold on to your bonnets, Holy Posters. Phil is joined by Kaitlyn Schiess and, while Skye’s away, guest host Mike Erre to talk about the scandals and misogyny plaguing evangelicalism. Phil wonders—are these bugs or features? And is it possible to love evangelicals but hate evangelicalism? Kaitlyn and Mike also explain what keeps them committed to Jesus and his church amid so much mess. Then, Skye talks to Baylor University history professor Beth Allison Barr about her new book, “The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth.” Barr explains why Paul’s writings about women are widely misread, how women have led throughout church history, and how the Reformation created the domesticated vision of womanhood still idealized by the church today. All of that, plus science can’t explain a sea worm’s perplexing number of posteriors. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/marine-worm-sprouts-hundreds-butts-180977715/ https://twitter.com/albertmohler/status/1391499883153080324 |
Tue, 11 May 2021
It’s increasingly difficult to have conversations with other Christians. Our families and congregations can’t seem to agree even about basic facts, let alone the news or how we ought to respond to what’s happening. So, we avoid talking about anything that might be controversial—which is pretty much everything today. What happened? How did we become so divided? The Holy Post crew talks about CT president Tim Dalrymple’s recent article, “The Splintering of the Evangelical Soul,” and what is necessary to heal our divisions. Then, Bob Roberts—the most interesting evangelical in the world—joins Skye for a conversation about why it’s critical to have deep relationships with people of other faiths. Roberts says it’s transformed his own understanding of Christianity, and isolating our kids from the world will only guarantee they join it. Also this week, Joshes battle for supremacy in Nebraska. https://thegirlwhoworefreedom.com/festivals/ https://news.yahoo.com/hundreds-people-named-josh-met-005228139.html https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2021/april-web-only/splintering-of-evangelical-soul.html |
Wed, 5 May 2021
Rene Padilla died last week at 88, and you’re probably thinking “Who’s Rene Padilla?” Phil, Skye, and Christian discuss the huge influence he had on the global church and its mission, and why so many American Christians still feel a divide between saving souls and reforming society. Then, Skye talks to Scot McKnight about his new book, “A Church Called Tov,” which he co-wrote with his daughter Laura Barringer in the aftermath of the Willow Creek controversy and Bill Hybles’ abuse. McKnight defines what makes a church culture toxic, and why so many pastors are on the narcissism disorder spectrum. It’s an eye-opening conversation. Also this week—a Kickstarter campaign for a new Christian dating service, a church in an unexpected location launches “Drag Queen Sunday,” and the terrifying story of a man, a portable toilet, and a tree. https://thegirlwhoworefreedom.com/festivals/ https://apnews.com/article/pennsylvania-gettysburg-69f03d57db0cb1e4b912b59ddce396dd https://lausanne.org/content/covenant/lausanne-covenant https://www.amazon.com/Christian-Mission-Modern-World-Classics/dp/0830834117 |
Wed, 28 April 2021
In a recent editorial, David French asked whether the primary threat to the church comes from within or without? Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn discuss the question and whether the church is primarily for or against the world. Plus, why are so many Christian ministries focused on protecting kids? Is it related to our fixation on the danger of hell? Then, Skye talks with A.J. Swoboda about his new book “After Doubt: How to Question Your Faith without Losing it.” He says a lot of people aren’t really deconstructing Christianity, but a false form of the faith that should be abandoned. And Swoboda explains the danger of a culture in which everything new is seen as superior. Also this week—the Colorado baker refuses to make a transgender cake, coyote pups, and screaming foxes. https://www.denverpost.com/2021/03/23/colorado-baker-lawsuit-gender-transition-birthday-cake/ https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/the-question-that-dictates-how-christians https://dandarling.substack.com/p/in-here-out-there-on-assessing-spiritual https://www.amazon.com/People-Truth-Worshipping-Community-Modern/dp/1579105602 https://www.amazon.com/After-Doubt-Question-without-Losing/dp/1587434512 |
Wed, 21 April 2021
There’s a popular cliche among evangelicals—“The Bible says it. I believe it. That settles it.” But is it really that simple? Not according to New Testament scholar, Dr. Timothy Gombis. Because we’re not ancient Near Eastern people living in a desert, he says it’s not possible to literally apply the Bible. Instead, any faithful Christian needs to learn how to improvise. Dr. Gombis talks with Skye about faithful improvisation, what cross-shaped cultural engagement looks like, and how idolatry destroys bodies. Also this week, Phil’s tweet about angry Christians using “table-flipping Jesus” to justify their bad behavior causes an uproar. Does the story mean it’s sometimes ok to be nasty and insult our enemies? Plus, Pat Robertson is “woke” on police violence, and a French pastry in a tree terrorizes Poland.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-56757956
https://www.amazon.com/Mark-Story-God-Bible-Commentary/dp/0310327156 |
Wed, 14 April 2021
Francis Chan says it’s time for Christians to take Jesus’ command about unity seriously. His new book, “Until Unity,” outlines the biblical call to be one, and why we struggle to achieve it. Skye talks with Chan about what Christian unity looks like practically, the role of racism in keeping us apart, how a focus on church growth distracted Chan from seeking unity, and how to know when disunity is the only option. Also this week, a new study finds less than 50% of Americans are now members of a church for the first time in a century. Should secularists be rejoicing? Not necessarily, as some experts fear religious zeal is now shifting into politics. Plus, smuggling baby tortoises, Phil’s worried about a 3,000-year-old knife-wielding spider god, and a fecal fight between Godzilla and King Kong.
https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/644356/godzilla-king-kong-whose-poops-would-be-bigger https://www.cnn.com/2021/03/30/world/galapagos-airport-tortoises-trnd/index.html https://www.insider.com/japan-early-cherry-blossom-bloom-climate-change-2021-4 https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/mural-knife-wielding-spider-god-found-peru-180977360/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/religion/2021/03/29/church-membership-fallen-below-majority/ |
Wed, 7 April 2021
Our favorite Old Testament scholar is back to talk about the Book of Daniel. Dr. John Walton says the apocalyptic passages of Daniel—which deeply influenced those End Times charts popular among evangelicals—aren’t really predictive of the future in the way we think. And the story of Daniel isn’t necessarily a manual for how Christians ought to live in a post-Christian society. Prepare to have your mind blown as you learn what apocalyptic visions in the Bible are really about. Also this week—how should Christians think about social welfare programs, slavery reparations, and guaranteed minimum income? Esau McCaulley brilliantly reframes the Easter story in light of the Black church’s experience. Plus, the excellence and etymology of Peeps.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/02/opinion/easter-celebration.html https://www.amazon.com/Sum-Us-Everyone-Prosper-Together/dp/0525509569 |
Wed, 31 March 2021
Have you wondered why so many megachurch leaders have been embroiled in scandals, or why there are so many Christian celebrities today? It’s not accidental. It’s the predictable outcome of the systems behind much of popular consumer Christianity. In this special episode co-produced with the Love Thy Neighborhood podcast, Jesse Eubanks joins Skye to explore the way business interests and economics have replaced Christian values to drive many parts of American evangelicalism. Featuring multiple interviews, investigative reporting, and commentary, this episode will pull back the curtain on the evangelical industrial complex. |
Wed, 24 March 2021
Is evangelical purity culture to blame for the murder of eight people at spas in Atlanta? Or is anti-Asian racism the cause? What about America’s gun culture or mental illness? Phil, Skye, and Christian discuss the many facets of the tragedy and get vulnerable about their own history with evangelicalism’s obsession with sex. Then, Skye talks with Richard Stearns, president emeritus of World Vision, about his new book on leadership. Stearns recalls his own battle with purity culture when he tried to convince evangelicals to fight the AIDS epidemic 20 years ago, and he discusses the lack of courageous leadership in many parts of the church today. Also this week—a News of the Butter update. https://religionnews.com/2021/03/17/atlanta-massage-parlor-murder-suspect-big-into-religion/ Podcast Phil references: https://bethebridge.com/episode-12-transition-in-proximity-to-whiteness-with-dante-stewart/ |
Wed, 17 March 2021
Episode 448: Beth Moore's Exit & the Problem of "Impoverished Imaginations" with Karen Swallow Prior
Recently author/professor Karen Swallow Prior was asked what she considered the biggest problem facing the church today, and answered, "an impoverished imagination." So Phil sat down with Karen to talk through what she means by that, and her belief that a lack of imagination-forming reading results in, among other things, our propensity to believe conspiracy theories and our extreme discomfort with uncertainty. Karen also convinces Phil he really, really needs to read Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. PLUS, Kaitlyn Schiess joins Skye and Phil to talk through Beth Moore's departure from the SBC, and whether the death of evangelist Luis Palau represents the end of the era of large-scale evangelism. Oh... and if you're using the story of Jesus flipping tables to justify bad behavior on social media, you're probably misusing that story. This week on the podcast! https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/cruelty-is-apostasy https://www.relevantmagazine.com/faith/jesus-flipping-tables-isnt-excuse-your-online-rants/ |
Wed, 10 March 2021
What is the greatest threat facing Christianity in the U.S. today? Socialism? Cancel culture? Wokeness? Not according to Dr. Russell Moore. He says it’s “means-to-an-end-Christianity” which seeks to use Christ to achieve some other goal. This, he argues, is what’s fueling everything from Christian nationalism to the cover up of sexual abuse in churches and ministries. Don’t miss his wide-ranging conversation with Skye. Also this week, the podcast crew discusses the “Seven Mountain Mandate” behind so many of the cultural and political wars Christians are fighting today, and why it’s more about seizing power than serving Christ. How do we convince evangelicals to abandon conspiracy theories and get the Covid vaccine? Plus, Phil’s tired of hard butter. Patreon Bonus: https://www.patreon.com/posts/48587588 https://www.npr.org/2021/02/24/971018428/baffled-canadians-spread-reports-of-hard-butter https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/how-a-rising-religious-movement-rationalizes https://religionnews.com/2021/02/25/the-creeping-radicalization-of-white-evangelicals/ |
Wed, 3 March 2021
Filling his songs with faith and the theology of respected white leaders like John Piper and Tim Keller, Lecrae became a darling of white evangelicalism. When he spoke out against racial injustice in 2017, all that began to change. Grammy-winning singer/songwriter, record producer and Christian activist Lecrae sits down with Phil to talk about being called “too Black,” Fallkirk Center co-founder Charlie Kirk’s recent attempt to “cancel” him, and, in the midst of it all, why he still has hope for the church. Plus - was that really a golden statue at CPAC?? Seriously?? https://www.huffpost.com/entry/donald-trump-gold-statue-cpac_n_6038eac7c5b60f03d9b3dec5 |
Wed, 24 February 2021
How do you know if you’re a Christian nationalist? Kaitlyn Schiess is back with Phil and Skye to unpack Samuel Perry’s top 10 indicators of Christian nationalism and they add a few of their own. They also discuss why there’s so much overlap between Christian nationalism and Christian fundamentalism. Plus, Phil explains how the evolution of contemporary Christian music reveals what’s happened to the American church. Then, Skye talks with Preston Sprinkle about his new book “Embodied: Transgender Identities, the Church, and What the Bible Has to Say.” They discuss what extremists on the Right and Left get wrong about the transgender conversation, and what a pastoral, not just a theological, response looks like. Also this week, a more accurate covid test is being used in China—but there’s a downside.
https://twitter.com/socofthesacred/status/1358834106356948996 |
Wed, 17 February 2021
Here we go again. The evangelical world is shocked by another leadership scandal. This time it’s the report that famed apologist Ravi Zacharias sexually abused women for years before his death in 2020. Kaitlyn Schiess joins Phil and Skye to discuss the story, and why so many ministries fail to investigate their famous leaders or take abuse allegations seriously. Then, Skye talks with Charlie Dates, senior pastor of Progressive Baptist Church in Chicago, about his decision to leave the Southern Baptist Convention in December. Believing the SBC’s desire to overcome its racist past was genuine, Dates had to convince his historically black church to align with the SBC in the first place. He explains why he was wrong and what it means for the future of evangelicalism in America. This week's Bonus segment: https://www.patreon.com/posts/47673135 |
Wed, 10 February 2021
Before the 2020 election, many self-identified “prophets” within the charismatic movement decalred God had revealed to them that Donald Trump would win. Millions of followers believed them. How are they now reconciling their divine revelations with reality? The Holy Post crew looks at another failed prophecy in the 1840s that changed American Christianity. Also this week, Phil deputizes Mike Erre as his pastor to determine whether his sarcastic response to a Twitter critic violated Jesus’ command against judging others. And sociologist Joshua Packard talks with Skye about a comprehensive new study on the faith of Generation Z, and why few churches are prepared to engage them. Plus, forced monkey labor. https://www.cnn.com/2021/01/26/business/target-drops-chaokoh-coconut-milk-trnd/index.html https://thewayofimprovement.com/2021/01/15/charismatic-prophets-at-war/ |
Wed, 3 February 2021
Evangelicals used to believe the way to transform America was through revivalism. Increasingly, they now believe it’s through revolution. Why are so many buying into Christian nationalism? What is it? And what can we do about those caught in this heretical gospel of political domination? Phil, Skye, and Christian discuss the issue. Also this week, Dr. Derwin Gray—former NFL player and lead pastor of a multiethnic church in North Carolina—joins Skye to talk about his new book on the Beatitudes, “The Good Life,” and why Jesus was the happiest person ever. Gray also unpacks why so many pastors are afraid to talk about race and politics. Plus—nano chameleons and scientists teach vegetables to send emails. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/28/opinion/christian-nationalists-capitol-attack.html https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/discerning-the-difference-between |
Wed, 27 January 2021
Was Donald Trump good or bad for the Republican Party? The GOP lost the presidency and the Senate, but in 2020 the party gain seats in the House and Trump also got more votes than any Republican candidate ever! Conservative columnist and veteran of three Republican administrations, Peter Wehner, joins Skye to talk about the future of the party after Trump, and why evangelicals are the group most easily seduced by political power. Also this week, Kaitlyn Schiess joins Phil and Skye to discuss Biden’s inauguration, and to answer listener questions like—Why do so many conservative Christians oppose environmentalism? Why is there a split between older and younger Christians regarding Christian nationalism? And, why do the same leaders who say “We should be courageous enough to die for our faith” exhibit so much fear over cultural and political change? |
Wed, 20 January 2021
Jemar Tisby (The Color of Compromise) rejoins Phil to discuss his new book, How to Fight Racism. Actual, real steps to be part of the solution, not part of the problem! Plus David French posits that the American church has been infected with something called “Southern shame culture,” which sends Phil on a journey into the “Lost Cause” narrative, confederate monuments, revisionist history and the overwhelming desire to “defend our tribe” and punch back at enemies, real and imagined. It’s a wild, historical journey from the Civil War to Franklin Graham! (And if you don’t like it, it’s David French’s fault.) Bonus for Patreon Subscribers: Phil asks Jemar some tough questions: What’s his take on the CRT controversy in the Southern Baptist Convention? And what about abortion? Since white Christians are more likely to vote for pro-life candidates than Black Christians, does that mean Black Christians don’t care about abortion? It’s a fascinating conversation available to everyone who supports the podcast at any level!
https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/where-does-the-south-end-and-christianity |
Wed, 13 January 2021
Everyone is trying to make sense of the attack on the Capitol last week by a violent pro-Trump mob displaying Christian symbols—including us! Kaitlyn Schiess joins Phil, Skye, and Christian to talk through the madness. Skye explains why this attack is fundamentally different from political violence in America’s past. Phil worries about the loss of objective truth and why responses on Facebook are so much worse than Twitter. The discuss why so many Christians and Christian leaders still support Donald Trump, and the crew unpacks articles from three evangelicals—Ed Stetzer, Michael Gerson, and David French—who say white evangelicalism must face a reckoning. But will it? https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/only-the-church-can-truly-defeat |
Wed, 6 January 2021
We’re starting the new year with a look back. John Fea, history professor from Messiah College, author of “Believe Me: The Evangelical Road to Donald Trump,” and the official historian of the Holy Post podcast, says 2020 was a year that “unveiled” the truth about American evangelicalism. He also explores how different court evangelicals have responded to Trump’s loss, and what may happen next. Fea also looks at Phil’s recent video about the history of evangelicalism, and how the Second Great Awakening shaped so much of what we’re seeing today. Also this week—Skye goes skiing and Phil replaces Plinky Pete. |
Wed, 30 December 2020
Recently, Young Earth Creation (YEC) champion Ken Ham took exception to Phil's statement that Ham "rejects mainstream science." In the flurry of social media activity that followed, a number of YEC experts took Phil to task, claiming he was wrong on several facts. Phil dug deeper and realized he WAS in fact wrong on a couple of things, but right on a bunch more. So this week Phil lays out what he got wrong and what he got right as we take a deep dive into the fascinating history of the movement called "Creation Science," or Ken Ham-style "Young Earth Creationism."
Buckle up! It's a fun one! |
Wed, 23 December 2020
Trump supporters who believe the election was stolen, including Eric Metaxas and the My Pillow Guy, marched on Washington D.C. to blow their horns and sell their merch. Notable was the absence of many of the President’s evangelical allies. Why didn’t they show? Influential black pastors are leaving the Southern Baptist Convention over their blanket opposition to Critical Race Theory. Given the SBC’s racist heritage, have they chosen the wrong battle? Sociologist Ryan Burge reports on the widening gap between evangelical elites and those in the pews. It’s becoming clear that the real leaders of evangelicalism aren’t found in churches, seminaries, or denominations, but in conservative media. Also this week—Vietnamese honey bees outsmart murder hornets with chicken poop. |
Wed, 16 December 2020
Advances in medical technology have produced a Covid-19 vaccine in record time, but some of these advances have a dark side. Gene editing technology may end some diseases, but should we interfere with the conception and birth of those who carry certain genes? And what about creating enhanced humans? Bioethicist Calum MacKellar joins Skye for an important, and somewhat disturbing conversation about the new era of eugenics we are entering. Also this week, the Holy Post crew discusses a new book about Millennials and burnout. What makes Millennials different from the Greatest Generation that endured the Great Depression and WWII? Are they struggling because of a breakdown in family and faith, or because of U.S. economic and political failures? Plus, is there still a place for public shaming? And, hand sanitizer + dog = chaos. |
Wed, 9 December 2020
Conservatives have recently found a new boogeyman—Critical Theory. Even Mr. Trump has issued an executive order declaring Critical Theory to be “anti-American,” and last week the presidents of six Southern Baptist seminaries said critical theory is incompatible with Christianity. Their statement, however, never defined what Critical Theory is nor what makes it unchristian. Theologian David Fitch is back to talk about the controversy and offers a more thoughtful way to assess which aspects of Critical Theory are useful, and not so useful, for Christians. Kaitlyn Schiess is also back with Phil and Skye to talk about the SBC’s response, and why white evangelicals see some evils as personal (racism) and others as systemic (abortion)? Are there similar inconsistencies on the political left as well? Also this week: Portland pastor Rick McKinley says nationalism with Jesus’ face is the religion of white Christians. That’s not too risky to say in Portland, but what if you’re a pastor in Dallas? Plus, can we please stop sharing “unspoken” prayer requests?
https://religionnews.com/2020/12/01/southern-baptist-seminary-presidents-nix-critical-race-theory/
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Wed, 2 December 2020
In November, seven states (both red and blue) had initiatives on their ballots to either decriminalize or legalize some drugs including marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and LSD. Every measure passed. As the U.S. continues to rapidly abandon its war on drugs, how should Christians respond? And if these addictive and dangerous substances are legalized, what happens next? Bonnie Kristian is back to talk about her recent op-ed arguing for an end to the drug war from an evangelical perspective. Also this week, another celebrity pastor has been removed from ministry causing Katelyn Beaty to ask, do we have a hot pastor problem? The crew debate why we want our church leaders to be attractive performers rather than spiritual leaders. A new study finds the U.S. is becoming more secular AND more religious at the same time. How do we bridge the divide? Plus, the Chinese pay $2 million for a Belgian pigeon. https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2020/november-web-only/christians-believe-we-end-drug-war-to-win-it.html |
Wed, 25 November 2020
The cultures which produced the Bible were collectivist, but most modern Western Christians are immersed in individualism. Biblical scholar and missionary, E. Randolph Richards says this causes many of us to misinterpret critical aspects of the Bible, or miss them altogether. He talks with Skye about his latest book, “Misreading Scripture with Individualist Eyes.” Also this week—has a decline in religious authority caused a decline in empathy in America? And how did we go from expecting institutions to form us, to now expecting them to affirm us? Jerry Falwell Jr. is suing Liberty University for damaging his reputation. Plus, Christian’s surgery, itchy rashes, and swearing parrots.
https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/swearing-parrots-moved-park-scli-gbr-intl/index.html https://religionnews.com/2020/10/06/new-book-explains-how-the-decline-of-religious-authority-led-to-the-end-of-empathy/ https://www.holypost.com/post/10-of-the-most-memorable-celebrity-interviews https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/we-used-to-ask-institutions-to-form-us-now-they-must-affirm-us/ |
Wed, 18 November 2020
The CEOs of Facebook and Twitter testified before Congress this week about the toxic spread of misinformation on their platforms and the harm it causes to society. Sadly, many Christians are complicit in this trend. Daniel Darling is back to talk about how Christians must change the way we engage social media if there’s any hope of redeeming it. Also this week, Trump’s favorite television preachers have made a spectacle of praying for a miraculous election victory, but when does Christian prayer deteriorate into pagan magic? The crew discusses a new study about megachurches, why they’re growing even larger, how fewer are identifying as “evangelical,” and whether the pandemic will cause anyone to rethink the model. Also, Canada experiments with giving money to homeless people, and R.I.P. Sausage King of Russia. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/new-leaf-project-results-1.5752714 http://hirr.hartsem.edu/megachurch/megachurches.html |
Wed, 11 November 2020
The exit poll data from the election is in, and it looks like white evangelicals are as politically conservative and Republican as ever. Professor of political science from Eastern Illinois University, Ryan Burge, joins the Holy Post crew to discuss the findings. He says Democrats should give up on white evangelical voters who are now more Republican than Christian. Burge also looks at the formative power of cable news, why pastors are afraid to address the idolatry of politics in their pews, and why the data says the future of evangelicalism will be dramatically different. Also this week, Drew Dyck is back with his latest book selections to survive the pandemic. Plus, Tesla owners beware—you could accidentally butt dial a very expensive upgrade for your car. https://www.cnbc.com/2020/10/07/tesla-app-butt-dial-purchases-still-possible-refunds-hard-to-get.html |
Wed, 4 November 2020
It’s 2020, did anyone really expect the election to be easy? The morning after the vote, a sleep-deprived Holy Post crew discusses what the incomplete results mean for the country and the church. The country hasn’t repudiated Trumpism, but they don’t seem to be embracing progressivism either. Did evangelicals still “hold their nose” and vote for Trump, or do exit polls show they’re deeply inhaling? An article from Christianity Today’s president, Tim Dalrymple, helps explain the evangelical divide over politics. And can the church learn to be prophetic again rather than partisan? Also this week, Phil talks with David French about reactions to the Holy Post video on abortion, and what the data shows will actually reduce the abortion rate in America. https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2020/november-web-only/trump-election-politics-church-kingdom.html |
Wed, 28 October 2020
With less than a week until the election, Phil and Skye are joined by Kaitlyn Schiess to discuss what should, and should not, influence how Christians vote. First, they talk about reactions to Skye’s video (not Phil’s, he had nothing to do with it!) about abortion, and the different ways the issue is viewed by evangelicals. They also unpack recent articles about the election from three Christian leaders—John Piper, Al Mohler, and Joel Hunter. It is just a coincidence that the two retired pastors oppose Trump? And why does Mohler hold Black Christians to a different standard when voting? Phil explains why two traditionally Republican counties should make conservatives rethink their support for Trump. And why is every election framed as an existential threat to America? Finally, Skye talks with Scott Arbeiter, president of World Relief, about the historically low number of refugees resettled in the U.S., the current administration’s broken promise to help persecuted Christians, and why evangelical leaders and laity are so far apart on the issue of immigration. Lifeway Research | “2016 Election Exposes Evangelical Divides”: Desiring God | “Policies, Persons, and Paths to Ruin: Pondering the Implications of the 2020 Election”: Albert Mohler | “Christians, Conscience, and the Looming 2020 Election”: Michael Wear Responds to Al Mohler | Twitter Thread: Christian Post - Wayne Grudem | “A respectful response to my friend John Piper about voting for Trump”:
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Wed, 21 October 2020
Author and cultural commentator, Os Guinness, says, “If people don’t understand the 60’s, they can’t understand today.” Skye talks with Os about the re-release of his classic book, “The Dust of Death” and how the 60’s counterculture planted the seeds for the cultural upheaval and division we’re seeing in 2020. Also this week, can the National Association of Evangelicals restore the reputation of evangelicalism in America? The Gospel Coalition offers 6 wise suggestions for political engagement, and the crew discusses how church leaders can lead their congregations through potentially divisive topics. Plus, News of the Butt…in space! “NASA Just Sent a New $23 Million Space Toilet to the International Space Station”: “For the Health of the Nation” Statement: 6 Ways Christians Can Be Wiser in Public Engagement”: |
Wed, 14 October 2020
The most esteemed New Testament scholar alive today is back on the show! N.T. Wright discusses his new book about John’s gospel, “Broken Signposts.” Wright talks to Skye about two competing visions of power and freedom at work in the world today, and how the church sometimes fails to follow the right one. He also unpacks how “identity” has become the dominant framework in our culture, how it’s a reaction to colonialism, and the danger it poses to Christian unity. Also this week—Is America having a moral convulsion? David Brooks things so. The gang discusses his new article about what happens when we lose trust in America’s institutions and in one another, and why the church could be the answer. Plus, Phil gets invited to a cookout, Christian wins another award, and Skye’s dog vomits on his sofa. Should Christians vote for Trump? Eric Metaxas vs David French: |
Wed, 7 October 2020
Does the Bible have anything to say about the police? What about racial diversity? Are Christians called to submit to the government or reform it? Professor and Anglican priest, Esau McCaulley, talks about his new book, “Reading While Black,” and the African-American tradition of Scripture interpretation that avoids the either/or (conservative vs. liberal) thinking typical in the white church. Also this week, Phil shares about his experience being interviewed by Kirk Cameron and goes on a rant about “false binaries.” Christian is now an “award-winning” filmmaker. What should a useful voter guide for Christians include? And clowns object to the first presidential debate being called a “circus.” "How Do Christians Fit Into the Two-Party System? They Don’t.”: |
Wed, 30 September 2020
The Holy Post crew discusses the new Netflix documentary, “The Social Dilemma,” about the way social media is contributing to the breakdown of society and how Facebook’s algorithms make reasonable people into extremists. Also this week, Skye and Josh Lindsay—his co-host on The Movie Proposal podcast—interview actor and screenwriter, Luke Barnett, about his new comedy “Faith Based.” Barnett explains how his long experience in the church informed the project, why Christian movies follow such a predictable formula, and how tribal identity rather than quality is what makes movies successful today. Plus, new research from Barna says fewer Christians think racism is a significant problem than a year ago. And Mexico passes a law preventing kids from buying junk food.
"‘We Had To Take Action’: States In Mexico Move to Ban Junk Food Sales To Minors”: |
Wed, 23 September 2020
The United States now has more guns than people, and while overall violent crime is down the number of mass shootings is set to break a record in 2020 and suicides from guns is rising. How should Christians think about America’s gun culture? David French is back to offer a legal and moral argument for why most attempts at gun control are misguided. He says more legal gun ownership protects freedom, and Skye wonders if a public square filled with guns limits it. And if we can’t reduce the number of guns, what’s the best way to limit gun crime and mass shootings?
Also this week, the Holy Post crew is joined by Kaitlyn Schiess to discuss the legacy of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and what her death means for the presidential election and the future of the Supreme Court. Are the Republicans being hypocrites for filling Ginsburg’s seat weeks before the election when they refused to let Obama nominate a justice 8 months before the election in 2016? And what should we think of the Democrat’s threat to pack the court? Skye warns about dismantling political norms, Kaitlyn says Christians viewing every election as an existential threat is a failure of discipleship, and Phil plays the devil’s advocate by throwing down the abortion card. https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/yes-america-could-split-apart |
Wed, 16 September 2020
At numerous points throughout American history, Christians had a choice to confront the evils of racism or quietly ignore them. In a challenging conversation Jemar Tisby, author of “The Color of Compromise” and host of the “Pass the Mic” podcast, explores key moments from the arrival of the first African slaves in 1619 to the rise of the Religious Right in the 1970s when the white church in America chose silence or complicity rather than faithfulness. He also explains how Christian arguments to justify slavery are still being used by some today in the wake of police violence and Black Lives Matters. Also this week, Skye and Phil discuss why neighborhoods are becoming more segregated than ever. Tim Keller’s definition of “righteous” challenges our American and economic belief in self-interest. IBM is using A.I. to create fake crowds for televised sports during the pandemic. Plus, Amsterdam has an innovative solution for a scourge of “wild peeing.”
“The Color of Compromise: The Truth about the American Church’s Complicity in Racism” by Jemar Tisby: https://www.amazon.com/Color-Compromise-American-Churchs-Complicity-ebook/dp/B07BB6R827
“IBM’s Watson to help tennis fans argue with each other:” https://www.cnn.com/2020/09/01/tech/ibm-artificial-intelligence-us-open/index.html
“These planter-like urinals are Amsterdam’s answer to the problem of ‘wild peeing’”: https://www.cnn.com/style/article/amsterdam-sustainable-urinal-scli-intl/index.html |
Wed, 9 September 2020
Why does everything feel like it’s “us vs. them” these days? Pastor and author J.R. Briggs says it’s because we’ve been taught to see everything as either/or, while Jesus modeled how to live in the tension of both/and. Briggs calls the space between opposing ideas the “sacred overlap.” He talks to Skye about the role of mystery and paradox in Christian theology, and how it applies to contemporary issues. Also this week, why using war rhetoric to describe our Christian mission is very unchristian. Clean comedian, Jim Gaffigan, unloads on Trump in a profanity-filled Twitter rant. Did Eric Metaxas punch someone and then run through Washington D.C. backwards? Plus—beetles, frogs, and butts.
“The Sacred Overlap: Learning to Live Faithfully in the Space Between,” by J.R. Briggs: https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Overlap-Learning-Faithfully-Resources/dp/031010212X
“If You’re Fighting the Culture War, You’re Losing” by Cap Stewart: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/if-youre-fighting-the-culture-war-youre-losing/
“Jim Gaffigan calls Trump ‘liar and a criminal,’ slams ‘Trumpers’ in series of tweets”: https://variety.com/2020/politics/news/jim-gaffigan-trump-twitter-rant-1234752423/
“Eric Metaxas confirms he punched protester, says protester was to blame”: https://religionnews.com/2020/09/01/eric-metaxas-protester-menaced-punch-video-trump-rnc/
“These Water Beetles Make Their Escape Out of Frog’s Butt After Being Swallowed”: https://www.sciencealert.com/these-water-beetles-can-houdini-their-way-out-of-a-frog-butt-after-being-swallowed |
Wed, 2 September 2020
We are deep into campaign season with Christians on all sides becoming increasingly anxious and vocal. Phil talks with Kaitlyn Schiess, author of “The Liturgy of Politics,” about the false narratives shaping the hearts and politics of many Christians. She identifies these “false gospels” as prosperity, patriotism, security, and supremacy—and they’re far more subtle and powerful than you might think, and they affect both sides of the partisan divide. Also this week, Jerry Falwell Jr. responds to his expulsion from Liberty U. by quoting MLK’s “Free at last...” speech. And Mike Pence quotes the Bible in his RNC speech but replaces “Jesus” with “Old Glory.” Is it the clearest example of Christian Nationalism yet? “What Jerry Falwell Jr. Taught Me at Liberty University” by Kaitlyn Schiess: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/26/opinion/jerry-falwell-liberty.html “The Liturgy of Politics” by Kaitlyn Schiess: https://www.amazon.com/Liturgy-Politics-Spiritual-Formation-Neighbor/dp/0830848304 “Vice President Mike Pence Swapped Out “Jesus” for “Old Glory” in His RNC Address”: https://relevantmagazine.com/culture/vice-president-mike-pence-swapped-out-jesus-for-old-glory-in-his-rnc-address/ |
Wed, 26 August 2020
Is our vision of the ideal Christian man more like Jesus or John Wayne? Historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez talks about the rise of militant masculinity within evangelicalism, how the threat of Communism in the mid twentieth-century led church leaders to deify testosterone, and why we don’t like images of a weak, crucified Jesus. Also this week, Jerry Falwell’s “pool boy” scandal, John MacArthur says abortion, gay marriage, and transgenderism should determine how Christians vote which leads Skye to explain the difference between “cosmic” and “crotch” Christianity, and Phil unpacks David French’s latest article about why your vote for president will have no impact on abortion. Plus, it’s 130 degrees in Death Valley. What does that mean? “Do Pro-Lifers Who Reject Trump Have Blood on Their Hands?” by David French
https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/do-pro-lifers-who-reject-trump-have
“About Those Manly Evangelical Protectors” by Kristin Kobes Du Mez: https://kristindumez.com/resources/about-those-manly-evangelical-protectors/
“You Want Context? Jerry Falwell Jr’s Crotch Shot and Family Values Evangelicalism” by Kristin Kobes Du Mez: https://kristindumez.com/resources/you-want-context-jerry-falwell-jr-s-crotch-shot-and-family-values-evangelicalism/ |
Wed, 19 August 2020
Back in 2016, Donald Trump gave a campaign speech promising that if elected “Christianity will have power.” The Holy Post crew discusses why this message has so much appeal to some Christians today, the way fear has come to mark our faith, and what we can do to counteract the trend. After the podcast is interrupted by a tornado, Christian asks if we’re seeing signs of the apocalypse. Skye says, “No” and shares his idea for a sermon titled “How Stupid Do We Think God Is?” Plus, listener mail. |
Wed, 12 August 2020
Everyone seems to be talking about justice—including Christians, but how we define “justice” in our society is hotly debated. Pastor and author Tim Keller has outlined 4 competing definitions of justice, and what sets Biblical justice apart from the rest. The Holy Post crew reviews Keller’s article and its implications. Liberty University has put Jerry Falwell Jr. on “indefinite leave.” Was it Falwell’s race-baiting, financial shenanigans, authoritarian leadership, or abuse of power that motivated Liberty’s board to act? Nope—it was a sexually-suggestive photo with Falwell holding alcohol. What does it say about what triggers evangelicals (and what doesn’t)? Also this week, friend of the show and host of the Vox Podcast, Mike Erre, talks with Skye about why Christians are drawn to conspiracy theories, and what motivated Skye to write his new book, “What If Jesus Was Serious?” Plus, Phil explains why he wants to live in a world where wild boar stroll into public areas with their piglets to steal things—and where naked Germans chase them. https://quarterly.gospelinlife.com/a-biblical-critique-of-secular-justice-and-critical-theory/ |
Wed, 5 August 2020
Does our faith shape our politics, or is politics shaping our faith? Justin Giboney is an attorney, a political strategist, and the co-founder and president of the AND Campaign. Rather than fighting over whether we should vote red or blue, Giboney believes Christians should use their influence to push both parties toward the love and truth of Christ. He talks with Skye about why that is more necessary and more challenging than ever. Also this week, a new book explores the intersection of white evangelicalism and masculinity leading the Holy Post crew to debate who’s less masculine—Phil or Skye? Plus, a South African couple has made an award-winning gin from elephant dung. Bottoms up! https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/gin-elephant-dung-south-africa https://religionandpolitics.org/2020/07/07/the-price-of-white-evangelical-patriarchy/
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Wed, 29 July 2020
The church in North America has more money and resources than ever before, so why is it increasingly ineffective? Pastor and author, Jon Tyson, is back to talk about his latest book, “Beautiful Resistance: The Joy of Conviction in a Culture of Compromise.” Tyson says “mammon” is the central idol in America today, and that much of the church worships it as well. But what is mammon? And why does Tyson think prayer and fasting is a path for the church to find real power again? He also shares what happened when his entire family contracted COVID19. Also this week, the crew discusses a Twitter thread about the implications or rooting Christian mission in the Great Commission (Matthew 28) rather than creation (Genesis 1-2), and why resistance to social change is foundational to evangelical theology. Finally, what can we learn from the 10 principles of Catholic social teaching? Links: https://twitter.com/drantbradley/status/1285975572414423040 https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/1998/10/31/10-building-blocks-catholic-social-teaching |
Wed, 22 July 2020
There are few public thinkers the Holy Post cites more often than David French, and he’s finally here in person! (Well, in person via Zoom.) French is the Senior Editor of The Dispatch, a columnist for Time, and a pro-life conservative attorney. Although many Christians are worried about the erosion of religious liberty, French says, “We have never enjoyed more religious liberty than we do right now.” The problem is that Christians are losing cultural power, and our attempts to retain it are often doing more harm than good. He helps us understand recent Supreme Court rulings about religious liberty and LGBT rights, why conservatives who are against face masks aren’t really pro-life, and how both the Left and Right get racism wrong. French explains why he will not vote for Trump, and why evangelicals have gone from holding their noses to enthusiastic support of a president who lacks both character and competency. Plus, what is “David Frenchism” and should we be worried about it?
The Case for Religious Liberty is More Compelling than the Case for Christian Power - The Dispatch:
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Wed, 15 July 2020
Why is COVID19 disproportionately harming communities of color? Why are we willing to criticize certain things about America but not others? And what about black voices who say systemic racism isn’t real? Friend of the show, Dr. Theon Hill, is back to discuss all of this and more with Phil and Skye. Also this week: why horror movie fans are more prepared than others for the pandemic, and how “Disney princess theology” has shaped the way you read the Bible.
Pandemic Practice: Horror Fans and Morbidly Curious Individuals Are More Psychologically Resilient During the COVID-19 Pandemic - Want to Be Happy? A Top Psychologist Says Stop ’Social Distancing,' and Do This Instead - Inc. - ‘More than individual sin’ - Black pastors urge evangelicals to admit systemic racism - Religion News Service - The Color of Compromise: The Truth about the American Church’s Complicity in Racism by Jemar Tisby Why I Stopped Talking About Racial Reconciliation and Started Talking About White Supremacy - Inheritance - https://www.inheritancemag.com/stories/why-i-stopped-talking-about-racial-reconciliation-and-started-talking-about-white-supremacy
The Black Church in Action Against Racism and COVID-19: A Practical and Biblical Guide to Prophetic Ministry While Protecting Health - https://www.reopeningthechurch.com/churchinactionmanualdownload |
Wed, 8 July 2020
Some people spend years learning theology and studying the Bible, but experience little or no transformation in their lives. What have we gotten wrong? Dr. Jim Wilder is a neurotheologian—that means he studies theology and brain science—who says we’ve mistakingly made the gospel about knowledge when it’s actually about attachment. You don’t want to miss what he has to say about the importance of food, joy, and gratitude in spiritual formation. Also this week, how does having power—or not having it—influence our beliefs? David French says America is experiencing a religious fundamentalist revival, but it’s not Christian. And is the Holy Post guilty of being an echo chamber?
Episode #412 Opinion | When Antifa Hysteria Sweeps America - New York Times - https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/17/opinion/antifa-protests.html Slave Religion: The "Invisible Institution" in the Antebellum South by Albert J. Raboteau America Is in the Grips of a Fundamentalist Revival — But it’s not Christian. - The Dispatch - https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/america-is-in-the-grips-of-a-fundamentalist Is Intersectionality a Religion? - Intelligencer - Opinion | The Real American Idol and the Lives We Sacrifice to Appease It -
https://faithfullymagazine.com/real-american-idol/ |
Wed, 1 July 2020
President of the Barna Group, David Kinnaman, is back to talk about the latest research on race and racism in the American church. Is the divide between black and white Christians shrinking, and is 2020 a true turning point or just an emotional release before a return to old ways of operating? Also this week, how can constellations help us understand the hysteria about Antifa? And does the evangelical emphasis on individual salvation contribute to racial resentment? Plus, an undersea bowel movement two years in the making.
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Wed, 24 June 2020
With the world being rocked by a pandemic and protests, many are seeing signs of the end times predicted by the Bible. Are they right? Some say they are misreading the signs. Others argue they’re misreading the Bible itself. Biblical scholar, Dr. Juan Hernandez, is back to discuss the right way—and the wrong way—to engage one of the most mysterious, and misread, book in the Bible. Also this week, what does “white privilege” actually mean and why do so many people react to the term? Evangelicals are upset about “cancel culture” but did they actually invent it? And learn how to avoid paying a farting fine in Austria. (Hint—it’s all about intestinal intent.)
Evangelicals perfected cancel culture. Now it’s coming for them. - Religion News https://religionnews.com/2020/06/17/evangelicals-perfected-cancel-culture-now-its- coming-for-them/ Austria: man fined for farting ‘with full intent’ at police - ABC News https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/austria-man-fined-farting-full-intent- police-71277117
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Wed, 17 June 2020
Can a tweet really change anyone’s mind? Do hashtags and slogans help engagement or shut it down? The Holy Post crew discuss what they’re learning about effective communication following the publication of Skye’s op-ed in USA Today and the release of Phil’s viral video on the history of racism. Also this week, the Supreme Court protects LGBT citizens from employment discrimination. What does it mean for religious organizations? Is there a difference between saying “Black Lives Matter” and supporting the organization with that name? Plus, why is Jerry Falwell Jr. apologizing? |
Wed, 10 June 2020
As the country is rocked by protests following the murder of George Floyd, the podcast crew discusses the meaning of it all. Phil explains how being a part of a multiethnic church has opened his eyes to the challenges people of color still face. Christian reflects on her southern, segregated upbringing. And Skye shares about the racism he’s experienced in the church and the suburbs. Also this week, theologian Matthew Bates explains the ongoing, sometimes bitter debate over the definition of the Gospel. Is it really about personal salvation or something much, much bigger? |
Wed, 3 June 2020
Some Christian communities are uncomfortable with challenging questions, doubts, and even curiosity. They prefer to keep life and faith in a neatly wrapped package. Jen Hatmaker came from such a community, but growing in her faith required more space to explore. Her spiritual curiosity came at a heavy price. This week the podcast crew talks with Hatmaker about her story, what she’s learned, and what it might mean for the future of Christians in our pluralist culture. Show Notes: https://www.holypost.com/post/257-race-in-america-the-history-of-post-civil-war-racism-re-post https://www.holypost.com/post/how-racial-injustice-has-benefited-me https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2020/may/george-floyd-ministry-houston-third-ward-church.html |
Wed, 27 May 2020
Did Bill Gates create the pandemic? Are Democrats running a child-trafficking cartel? Is Trump a secret genius sending coded messages in his tweets? Conspiracy theories are spreading among evangelicals faster than Covid-19. The Holy Post crew discusses The Atlantic’s cover story about QAnon, why it’s so appealing to Christians, and why it’s a dangerous heresy. Then, Skye talks with Chicago pastor David Swanson about his new book “Rediscipling the White Church,” and what would change if pastors began to see racism as a discipleship problem and not merely a social one. Plus—is God against face masks? And a rockstar is hospitalized after an “over-enthusiastic gardening accident.” |
Wed, 20 May 2020
The podcast crew responds to listener feedback and questions posted on HolyPost.com like, is it ok for Christians to be concerned about the mark of the beast if we avoid nutty conspiracy theories? New research finds white evangelicals consider Donald Trump the most trustworthy source for COVID-19 news and generally distrust public health officials and journalists. This leads Phil to explain the tactics of demagogues and why today’s evangelicals are drawn to them. Also this week, Drew Dyck is back with his latest book and media recommendations to engage while you’re sheltering at home.
GOP Lawmaker Opposes Coronavirus Face Masks Because They Cover ‘The Image Of God’ - HuffPost |
Wed, 13 May 2020
The culture in many Christian communities and organizations is toxic for leaders, their families, and their faith. This is especially true for female leaders. Jo Saxton is back to talk about her new book, “Ready to Rise,” and how churches neglect God’s gifts when they ignore women’s voices and abilities, and why women suppress their gifts to be seen as “humble.” And don’t miss Jo’s important interpretation of the Mary and Martha story from the gospels—Wow. Also this week: Skye shares his family’s quarantine rules. Scholars are redefining the meaning of “evangelical” away from any shared theology and toward shared politics and media figures. Half of Americans aren’t wearing pants while working at home. Self-cleaning underwear has just arrived and you’ll need it when you see 2020’s latest plague—Murder Hornets. |
Wed, 6 May 2020
More Americans have been killed by Covid-19 in two months than were killed in the Vietnam War in 20 years. Some Christians are responding to these uncertain times with familiar platitudes—none more popular than, “God is in control.” But is he? Mike Erre is back to talk about the tension in Scripture between God’s sovereignty and human free will. Also this week: What’s so special about lama blood? Churchgoers attempting to conduct a drive-in service get ticketed. A conspiracy theory growing among Christians says Dr. Fauci planned the pandemic in league with the antichrist. Has gullibility now become a Christian virtue? Skye shares his family’s quarantine rules, and Phil thinks bathing is overrated. |
Wed, 29 April 2020
The crazy Christian uncles are out in force declaring that the pandemic is God’s judgment on America for our sin and secularism. Are they right? Skye and Christian talk about it in a new edition of “Christian Asks....” Some theologians are arguing the opposite by declaring “God is not in control” of the current crisis. What?! The podcast crew also discusses conservative churches defying the government’s social distancing orders, and why are some Christians valuing the economy more than lives? Plus, scientists say farts can spread the virus, but there’s a solution. And Phil’s ukulele returns! |
Wed, 22 April 2020
William Wilberforce is celebrated as a model of Christian cultural engagement for ending the British slave trade, but most Christian biographies of Wilberforce ignore the fact that he was addicted to opium for most of his life. Timothy McMahan King, author of “Addiction Nation,” explains why. He shares his own story of overcoming opioid addiction which kills over 70,000 Americans every year, and how equating addiction with moral failure hurts far more than it helps. Also this week, Hulk Hogan says God is judging our idolatry with COVID19. Is he right? Skye explains why the eschatological nuts are probably wrong about this being the end of the world. And Phil tries to cut his hair with horse clippers. |
Wed, 15 April 2020
Phil, Skye, and Christian are celebrating their 400th episode like everyone else—quarantined in their homes. But they invited their Patreon supporters to join them for a live Q and A session via Zoom. The crew discusses their favorite podcast guests, interviews that managed to change their minds, and a bucket list of future guests. Youl’ll hear about Phil’s inability to “find my Roy,” their Enneagram numbers, lessons for churches from the pandemic, and hear Skye’s dog barfing in the background. It’s an audio delight for the whole family. |
Wed, 8 April 2020
The quarantined gang is back again, with better audio quality this time. (Sorry about last week!) Phil shares an experience with preschool-via-Zoom, then the group discusses two proposed theories for America’s vulnerability to the coronavirus… A) We’re compromised by the anti-science rhetoric of fundamentalist Christianity, or B) We’re all too selfish and individualistic. Skye wonders if the real answer is… C) All of the above? Plus, Phil (yes, Phil!) sits down for a chat with Erin Weidemann, an author, speaker and cancer survivor who has launched Truth Becomes Her - a ministry helping girls resist society's destructive messages about beauty and worth. The Religious Right is Crippling our Coronavirus Response from the New York Times
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Wed, 1 April 2020
Phil, Skye, and Christian talk via Zoom as they “shelter at home” during the coronavirus pandemic (sorry for the audio quality), but there is some good news. Clothing sales are up—but only for tops. Churches experiment with ‘drive-in’ worship. Phil shares N.T. Wright’s honest thoughts about the pandemic and why the best Christian response is lament, while Skye responds to fundamentalists who are certain that homosexuality and environmentalism are to blame for the virus. Plus, Mars Hill’s teaching pastor, Ashlee Eiland, talks about her new book and the power of radical kindness in a world of fear. |
Wed, 25 March 2020
Are machines going to take over the world? What happens to our jobs once everything is automated? And if computers can think, learn, and feel, do we need to redefine what it means to be human? Jason Thacker joins Skye for a conversation about his provocative new book, “The Age of A.I.” Also this week, Smurfs congregate in France in defiance of the coronavirus. Creators of “The Bum” allow you to wear celebrity posteriors. And with everyone migrating to streaming worship services during the pandemic, how legitimate is virtual church? Plus, Phil alienates the country of Belgium. |
Wed, 18 March 2020
The world is upside down because of the coronavirus pandemic, but fear not! Phil is here to save us from being locked in our homes with our children without entertaining and informative Bible content. Learn all about Mr. Phil TV and how to sign up. Also, if you didn’t make it to Costco for toilet paper, we’ve got you covered with natural alternatives for bathroom tissue. Finally, journalist and The Week columnist, Bonnie Kristian, talks to Skye about foreign policy and why it should be the most important factor when voting for a president. (FYI, their conversation was recorded before the COVID-19 outbreak.) Checkout Phil’s new kids streaming service - Mr. Phil TV - at www.MrPhil.tv and start a free trial! |
Wed, 11 March 2020
No, we’re not talking about the global coronavirus pandemic. Phil is worried about a record-breaking locust swarm, an army of 100,000 Chinese ducks, and a new line of “self-care” Barbies complete with a meditation app—because America isn’t self-focused enough. Also this week, screen use and a decline in exposure to sunshine are elongating human eyeballs. The Southern Baptists appear determined to eliminate anyone respected by outsiders from their ranks. Christian updates us on her WWII documentary project, and why does a French tire company rank restaurants. |
Wed, 4 March 2020
Eugene Cho is a passionate pastor, author, and activist who has learned how to maintain his convictions without condemning those who do not share them. Sometimes that learning has come through failure, and other times it’s been discovered at a dinner table with those he disagrees with. Cho has compiled his lessons into a new book, “Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk: A Christian’s Guide to Engaging Politics.” Also this week: Will the coronavirus force churches to think outside the box? A court says Christian college students must be allowed to evangelize in Chicago’s most popular park. And a poll by Christian politicians backfires spectacularly. Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk by Eugene Cho https://www.amazon.com/Thou-Shalt-Not-Jerk-Christians/dp/0781411157 Sign the Evangelical Immigration Table’s Restitution petition: http://evangelicalimmigrationtable.com/restitution/ |
Wed, 26 February 2020
The American church talks a lot about the family. Some might say we’re focused on it, but is that right? The podcast crew discusses a provocative new article by conservative columnist, David Brooks, about our society’s focus on the small nuclear family (mom, dad, and kids), why they’re unsustainable, and why extended family groups have always been the norm in human societies. World Relief’s Matthew Soerens is back for the second part of his interview about the state of refugees, and Skye talks about the racial history of America’s immigration policy. Also this week: Phil’s animal stories—car-sized turtles, the real-life Disney baboon, lazy salamanders, and talking penguins. |
Wed, 19 February 2020
The podcast crew responds to listener reactions to their Super Bowl halftime show episode which leads to a conversation about the physical difference between men and women. Is there any, and if so does it matter? The bad behavior of a TSA agent would suggest so. Phil explains why he can’t wear a speedo to McDonald's. Christian reacts to a calendar featuring topless Canadian firefighters. And Skye doesn’t like the new Billie Eilish song. Plus, part one of a conversation with Matthew Soerens from World Relief about the drastically reduced number of refugees being admitted to the U.S. and why the policy is bad for both the church and the economy. |
Wed, 12 February 2020
Rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among teens have skyrocketed in recent years which has put new strains on both parents and youth ministers. Dr. Kara Powell, director of the Fuller Youth Institute, is back to talk about new research and a curriculum to help families and churches navigate faith in an increasingly anxious world. Also this week: Some Christians want to be liberated from the “barbaric, totalitarian, and corrupt regime” that is Virginia. Is Franklin Graham being persecuted in the U.K., or is the culture warrior reaping what he’s sown? And a 15-year-old is expelled from a Christian school for wearing a rainbow sweater. |
Wed, 5 February 2020
The Super Bowl halftime show featuring Jennifer Lopez and Shakira has some Christians upset. Was it a case of objectifying women’s bodies or an important validation of Latin culture and female liberation? Phil & Skye unpack the debate. Also this week, Drew Dyck is back with his latest book and TV picks. He offers his take about the Trinity, secularism, and a controversial Netflix series about a modern-day messiah. |
Wed, 29 January 2020
The Apostle Paul says that Christ has given leaders to the church to “equip” the saints not to “serve” the saints. So why do we treat pastors like entertainers, CEOs, or suppliers of religious goods and services? Micah Fries talks about his new book, “Leveling the Church,” and how healing the clergy-laity divide is more important than ever. Also this week: a study finds Christians are more likely to own dogs while atheists own cats—but there’s a twist. The end has come for TV eschatologist Jack Van Impe. And Ethical Veganism has become a recognized religion in the UK launching the podcast crew into a wider discussion about ethics and animals. |
Wed, 22 January 2020
Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove was a zealous supporter of the religious Right, but after seeing the movement up close he began to question how a faith that affirms the dignity of all people had become one of division, fear, and dehumanizing enemies. He shares his journey and how a proper reading of the Bible will change the questions we ask. Also this week: Phil, Skye, and Christian discuss what they’ve learned a month after the Christianity Today / Christian Post / Donald Trump kerfuffle. Plus, a popular theologian defends Trump because of his “good fruit,” but are lower taxes and federal judges what Jesus meant? |
Wed, 15 January 2020
On December 23, the politics editor at The Christian Post, Napp Nazworth, abruptly announced his resignation after 8 years with CP. The online news site decided to publish an editorial throwing its full support behind Donald Trump, and Nazworth wasn’t on board. He shares about the transformation he observed as evangelical leaders went from opposing Trump, to reluctantly supporting him, to absolute loyalty, and what it means for the future of Christian journalism. Also this week, Christian gets rebuked on a French train, the Hallmark Channel angers a million moms, the Salvation Army says it’s not anti-LGBT, and a youth pastor running a marathon gets in deep trouble. |
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