You're Entitled to Our Opinion

Christian Nationalism Part 2 - Christians in the political arena

Last week's topic, Christian Nationalism, really "opened up a can of worms." Though the concept isn't all that new, it has become a point of contention for some, a rallying cry for others, and a miasma of confusion for the rest. Liberal media use it the same way the pagans used the term "Christian" in the later first century; In derision. It's important for those of us who proudly bear the name "Christian" to understand what people mean by the term "Nationalism." Those more radial will gladly embrace the whole concept while more conservative people believe their nationalism is better labeled "active patriotism." This Part 2 helps clarify the points of view of a wide spectrum of folks. "What do you mean by that?" is a great way to help keep the emotional explosions from creating collateral damage, reacting instead of reasoning, discussing instead of destroying relationships. We need to know what each other is saying. And find out what I.A.K stands for!

Christian Nationalism - Patriotism or something else?

Christian Nationalism, as a term, has been around for awhile but it has hit the media by storm since 2022. And since then, it has been both a rallying cry and a smear term across the country and even around the world. This two part series will help define the movement from both sides of the spectrum and help us understand its foundation as well as clarify the polarization it has played from the White House to our house. Is it true that the U.S. is a Christian nation, was founded as a Christian nation, and should be a Christian nation now and into the future? Some say a resolute "YES!" while others even claim it never was and shouldn't ever be. Do Christians need to be actively involved in the political arena of the country? When Jesus said "My kingdom is not of this world," does that mean Christians need to limit their influence and stick to "churchy" things? Is it possible to legalize morality? We will answer these as other questions as we seek a greater understanding of Christian Nationalism.

Happy Mother's Day! - A tribute to the moms in our lives

There's an old saying, "If it weren't for your mom, you wouldn't be here!" Well, that's true in many ways and this podcast is dedicated to honoring all mothers here and around the world. There is a lot of influence on a child's life through the interaction between mother and child, and it's a vital one. Both Jay and Tom share stories of the moms in their lives and the great impact these women had on their development as a person as well as their walk with the Lord. They pay special tribute to mothers who have had to take on the role of both parents in raising their children and how important the Body of Christ is to coming along side them in their mission. The value of motherhood can't be overstated. With the birth rate dropping to below 1.6 children per mother, our nation is looking at some dire consequences as women are either putting off child-rearing until later in life or are choosing not to be a mom at all. Happy Mother's Day! Moms, you WOW us!

What Makes Scripture Scripture? - Translations and paraphrases

B.I.B.L.E. - Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. Some people become confused when looking at all the translations and paraphrases: KJV, ESV, NIV, The Message, the Jerusalem Bible, the Living Bible, etc.. It can be a little daunting. The most important thing to know about the Bible is that it is God's Word. The God Who created time, space, and matter, wanted to communicate with us Who He is, how much He loves us, and His plan for our lives. Plus, we have history, science, and geography in it so we have a perspective of His working with humanity since the beginning of time. The more we read His story, the more intimate we become with Him. We don't have to be Bible scholars to glean God's truth from His Word. It does take time and focus, but if we do, the Holy Spirit will do exactly what Jesus said He would do, lead us into all truth. Some people love to argue about the Bible. That's not its purpose...to divide. The Holy Spirit ordered the 40+ authors over 1600 years to pen the words that brings us into a greater knowledge of the One who loves us most. As Jay loves to say, and Tom heartily agrees: Get into the Word and let the Word get in you!

Why, Judas, Why? - The rest of the story

Judas Iscariot - The man many people love to hate. But have we really taken the time to understand him? Jesus picked him out of a crowd to be one of his disciples and elevated him to the position of group treasurer. Sounds like he wasn't the greasy, snakey, sniveling money grabber so often portrayed in movies and from pulpits. Tom portrayed Judas Iscariot in the epic musical, "The Promise," in Branson, Missouri in over 2,000 shows. When he was chosen for the role, he asked God to help him understand and portray Judas as accurately as possible. And in doing so, bring about revelation that would touch lives and reveal hearts. We want to think we're like Peter, failing Jesus and repenting. But many of us are like Judas, doing our will in God's name. And unless we repent of that, instead of just being remorseful and hoping God will overlook it, we will have the same outcome as Judas - maybe not being hung on a tree but definitely not being with Christ for eternity. Following along as we paint a more accurate picture, from scripture, of the man who tried to "make it all happen."