Old Paths Podcast

Report on Reformed Christian Politics

SUMMARY In this episode of the Old Paths podcast, Michael Spangler and Cody Justice delve into the report on Reformed Christian Politics (written by Stephen Wolfe, Zachary Garris, and Sean McGowan), discussing its implications for modern political thought within the Reformed tradition. They explore the cultural influences that have shaped contemporary Reformed theology, critique the modern two kingdoms theology, and emphasize the need for systematic political thinking that aligns with the principles of the Reformed faith. The conversation highlights the importance of the church's role in politics, the necessity of promoting true religion, and the moral obligations of civil authorities. Throughout the discussion, they advocate for a more robust engagement with political issues, urging listeners to consider the historical context and theological foundations of their political beliefs. HIGHLIGHTS * Reformed political thought has been influenced by modern liberalism. * The two kingdoms theology has been misapplied in contemporary politics. * Christian political engagement should be rooted in Reformed principles. * Grace does not abrogate nature; both are essential in theology. * The church's mission is spiritual but must also engage with political realities. * Political reasoning is a discovery process that requires moral action. * Not all morally permissible actions are prudent in practice; yet prudence must not be an excuse for cowardice or indifference. * The promotion of true religion is a duty of civil government. * The church should not shy away from political involvement. * A systematic approach to political thought is necessary for Reformed Christians. CHAPTERS Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Reformed Christian Politics 03:06 Cultural Influences on Reformed Theology 06:00 The Challenge of Modern Political Thought 09:01 The Role of Two Kingdoms Theology 12:06 Deficiencies in Current Political Thinking 14:49 The Relationship Between Politics and Missiology 18:07 The Need for Systematic Political Methodology 20:54 Critique of Modern Conservative Politics 23:51 The Principle of Promoting True Religion 26:55 Prudence in Political Action 30:05 The Intersection of Faith and Politics 33:00 Conclusion and Call to Action 44:37 Exploring Historical Contexts and Authority Limits 48:04 The Role of Civil Authority in Promoting Religion 52:04 The Complexity of Blasphemy and Civil Action 55:57 Inevitability of Religious Establishment 01:00:25 Prudence and Moral Action in Governance 01:03:02 Rhetoric and the Promotion of True Religion 01:11:05 Understanding the Relationship Between Principle and Practice

American Mantle Review (February 2026)

SUMMARY In this episode of the Old Paths Podcast, Michael Spangler and Cody Justice discuss various topics including updates from Piedmont Presbyterian Church, recent publications from Sacra Press, and a critical review of Jeremy Karl's book 'The Unprotected Class'. They emphasize the need for virtues such as loyalty and righteous anger in the nationalist movement, arguing that complacency and a lack of moral conviction hinder progress. The conversation highlights the importance of standing firm against liberalism and the necessity of denouncing harmful ideologies while fostering a strong sense of community among nationalists. HIGHLIGHTS * Michael's church is experiencing growth and new members. * Sacra Press has released several new books and offers subscriptions. * Cody's review of Jeremy Carl's book serves as a rebuke to uncritical endorsements. * Loyalty among nationalists is crucial for success. * Denouncing effective leaders weakens the movement. * Righteous anger is necessary to combat societal evils. * Complacency in the face of evil is a significant problem. * The need for virtues like piety and fortitude in nationalism. * Criticism of Jeremy Carl highlights the dangers of liberalism. * The importance of community and support among nationalists. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Updates from Piedmont Presbyterian Church 06:10 Reviewing 'The Unprotected Class' by Jeremy Carl 17:12 Critique of Jeremy Carl's Senate Hearing 23:03 The Implications of Appointing Jeremy Carl 27:04 The Right's Internal Divisions and Future Strategies 30:30 Purity Spirals and Winning Strategies 34:00 Realism vs. Imagination in Political Strategy 39:54 Virtues for Nationalist Organizing 50:03 The Role of Anger in Nationalism

Excommunicated for Race Realism: Sam Ketcham

Summary This episode discusses the trial and excommunication of Sam Ketcham, focusing on the charges against him related to his views on race realism. The conversation explores the trial proceedings, the atmosphere during the trial, the impressions of supporters, and the arguments made by both the prosecution and defense. Key themes include the perceived lack of justice, the ambiguity of the charges, and the broader implications for faith and justice within the church. The conversation delves into the complexities of church dynamics, particularly focusing on the excommunication of Reverend Ketchum from the RPCNA. The speakers discuss the charges against him, the conflation of Liberalism with Christianity, and the implications of egalitarianism within the church. They reflect on the role of church courts, the historical context of current debates, and the need for a return to biblical truths. The discussion culminates in a call for fight within the church and a recognition of the challenges faced by those who uphold the biblical, historic Faith. Takeaways Samuel Ketchum was excommunicated for his views on race realism. The trial proceedings were marked by a lack of solemnity and predetermined outcomes. Supporters felt the trial was unjust and poorly conducted. The prosecution's arguments lacked clear biblical support. Pre-trial motions raised significant concerns about the trial's legitimacy. Witness testimonies were sidelined, limiting the defense's ability to present their case. The atmosphere during the trial was described as light-hearted despite serious charges. The charges against Ketchum were seen as vague and ambiguous. The defense argued that the prosecution failed to substantiate their claims. The trial raised broader questions about justice within the church. The church is facing charges of being against its own progress. There is a conflation of natural inequalities with racism in church discussions. Egalitarianism is viewed as a denial of God's order. Excommunication is seen as a miscarriage of justice. The role of church courts is critical in maintaining doctrinal integrity. Witness testimonies can significantly impact church proceedings. Historical context is essential in understanding current debates. Natural inequalities are acknowledged but often denied in modern discourse. The church must confront its own history to move forward. A call for reform and a return to biblical truths is necessary. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Trial and Excommunication 02:59 Background of Charges and Trial Proceedings 06:11 Impressions from Supporters at the Trial 09:06 Trial Observations and Judicial Conduct 12:12 Prosecution's Arguments and Charges 14:51 Defense and Pre-Trial Motions 17:58 Summary of Prosecution's Claims 20:58 Discussion on Judicial Process and Fairness 23:57 Witness Testimonies and Trial Dynamics 34:41 Witnesses and Their Role in the Trial 41:29 Defense Arguments and Charges Overview 56:44 Excommunication and Its Implications 01:07:45 Compassion vs. Reality in Society 01:09:17 Unequal Distribution of Talents and Abilities 01:10:44 The Impact of IQ on Opportunities 01:12:24 The Role of Truth in Racial Discussions 01:16:10 Historical Context of Racial Contributions 01:18:43 Personal Experiences and Observations 01:23:39 The Debate on Slavery and Its Implications 01:26:16 Reflections on the RPCNA and Church Integrity 01:30:41 The Aftermath of Excommunication 01:34:43 A Call to Action for the Church

American Mantle Review (Jan. 2026)

Summary In this episode of the Old Paths podcast, Michael Spangler and Cody Justice delve into recent articles from American Mantle, discussing the importance of discerning friends from enemies in political discourse, the role of AI in shaping modern strategies, and the challenges of defining American identity. They explore the need for leadership and organization within political movements, particularly focusing on the Middle American Radicals and their potential to challenge the current regime. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of adapting to new technologies while maintaining core principles and the importance of building a cohesive identity within the movement. Highlights * Listening is key to discerning true intentions. * Political leadership can often disappoint. * AI is a tool that can enhance political strategy. * Defining American identity is crucial for unity. * Leadership is essential for effective organization. * Middle America holds potential for political change. * Cultural narratives shape political realities. * Institutional independence is necessary for growth. * Polarization is a reality in modern politics. * The future requires new strategies and forms. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to American Mantle and Recent Articles 06:12 Understanding Friends and Enemies in Political Discourse 10:49 Disappointment with Political Leadership 14:22 The Role of Technology in Modern Politics 20:22 AI's Impact on Political Narratives 26:33 The Anthropological Void in American Identity 47:06 Citing Exceptions and Political Identity 49:01 Defining American Identity 52:42 New Forms for a New Era 53:02 The Role of the Vine and Iron 01:03:00 Middle American Radicals and Political Strategy 01:14:40 Confronting the Ruling Class

Reformed Presbyterian Persecution: Interview with Samuel Ketcham

Summary In this episode of the Old Paths podcast, hosts Michael Spangler and Cody Justice engage with Samuel Ketchum, a minister in the RPCNA, discussing his journey to ministry, the challenges he has faced, particularly regarding race and theology, and the charges brought against him by his presbytery. Ketchum shares his insights on the importance of biblical preaching, the current state of the church, and the implications of his trial set for January 24th. The conversation notes some of the concrete charges brought against Ketcham, emphasizes the need for accountability and truth in ministry, as well as the complexities surrounding race in the church today. Takeaways * Samuel Ketchum shares his background and journey to ministry. * He discusses the challenges he faced in his early ministry experiences. * Ketchum highlights the importance of preaching and its current challenges in the church. * The conversation delves into the intersection of race and theology in Ketchum's writings. * Ketchum explains the charges brought against him by the RPCNA. * He reflects on the implications of these charges for his ministry and the church. * The discussion emphasizes the need for biblical fidelity in preaching. * Ketchum expresses his desire for a more honest conversation about race in the church. * The trial date is set for January 24th, and Ketchum prepares to defend his views. * The conversation concludes with a call for accountability in ministry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Samuel Ketcham 04:03 Journey to Ministry and Early Experiences 09:14 Challenges in Ordination and Preaching Philosophy 14:53 The Role of Preaching in the Church Today 19:52 Transitioning Between Denominations and Racial Awareness 25:08 The Impact of Race on Faith and Community 30:06 Current Trial and Charges in the RPCNA 35:46 Understanding the Charges of Sin 43:31 The Role of Scripture in Church Authority 51:40 Critique of Judicial Processes in the Church 57:01 Historical Context of Abolitionism and Its Implications 01:03:23 The Importance of Biblical Foundation in Charges 01:07:43 The Role of Historical Context in Modern Debates 01:10:00 Vows and Commitments in Religious Institutions 01:12:41 Personal Experiences and Reactions to Controversy 01:14:41 The Intersection of Race and Theology 01:18:57 Egalitarianism and Its Challenges 01:20:20 Public Perception and Accountability in Ministry 01:22:01 The Nature of Presbyterian Judicial Processes 01:24:53 The Importance of Honest Discourse in Theology 01:33:07 Next Steps in the Journey of Faith and Accountability Support the work of Old Paths Podcast by donating here [https://www.americanmantle.org/donate/] to American Mantle.