Joe Rigney - The Sin of Empathy

Obey God, Defy Tyrants – A Grassroots Theology of Politics with Derin Stidd

In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, I sit down with Darin Stidd, a former pastor turned grassroots political activist with Young Americans for Liberty. Darin brings a rare combination of pastoral heart, sharp theology, and boots-on-the-ground political experience. Together, we tackle some of the most pressing questions Christians are asking right now: * Should Christians really care about politics if Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world”? * What does Romans 13 actually teach about submission to government? * How should we think about separation of church and state? * Why “just preach the gospel” is a gnostic distortion of Christianity. * What ordinary Christians can do to push back against tyranny without running for office. * Why most politicians don’t care about right and wrong — and how Christians can still force them to do the right thing. * How just 3% plus one of engaged citizens can change the course of politics in your state. Derin is convinced that Christians must bring their theology into the public square and learn to wield power in ways that honor Christ. This conversation will challenge you to think biblically, act courageously, and refuse to sit on the Stiddelines. If you’re in the Northern Kentucky / Greater Cincinnati area, join us Saturday, October 25, 2025 for a free seminar with Derin Stidd: Obey God, Defy Tyrants: A Grassroots Theology of Politics 📍 Christ the King Church, Fort Thomas, KY 🕘 9 AM – 12 PM 💻 Register here [https://ctkcincy.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/3143542] Subscribe to the podcast and share this episode if you believe Christians need to stop retreating and start standing boldly for truth in the public square. 00:00 The Reality of Political Motivations 00:49 Introduction to Derin Stidd 04:15 Christians and Political Involvement 14:10 The Misinterpretation of 'Separation of Church and State' 21:03 The Role of Christians in Government 31:51 Understanding Government and Citizen Power 32:56 Practical Steps for Political Engagement 34:49 Biblical Perspective on Government Authority 41:10 The Role of Christians in Politics 42:47 The Reality of Political Systems 49:33 Effective Political Strategies for Christians 56:23 Final Thoughts and Event Information

Debunking the Myth of MLK: A Biblical Perspective on Race and Unity

In this episode of the Plain Speech Podcast, host Michael Clary sits down with Kevin Briggins, a Christian Reformed Baptist, military veteran, and co-founder of the Center for Biblical Unity. Kevin hosts: https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@OffCodePodcast⁩ [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCmHJSSgDtlBbD3B1AMgsrew]  https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@InformedTakes⁩ [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCFQ2psRY-yk1Jz0yiI9Q1Aw]  https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@centerforbiblicalunity⁩ [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCks4V3eoZ0RPI3PXYjbjdTQ]  In this eye-opening episode, they dive deep into what many Christians get wrong about Martin Luther King Jr., challenging the narrative of his faith and legacy. From the social gospel to the civil rights movement’s hidden tactics, Kevin unpacks the complexities of race, culture, and biblical unity in today’s polarized world. They also discuss the dangers of critical race theory, the manipulation of language like "whiteness" and "blackness," and the hope for a church grounded in the true gospel.  Topics covered:  * Common misconceptions about Martin Luther King Jr.’s faith and the civil rights movement.   * The dangers of critical race theory and its impact on the church.   * How terms like "whiteness" and "blackness" are manipulated to push a Marxist worldview.   * The cultural pressures that divide Christians and how the gospel offers true unity.   * Kevin’s personal journey from a Democratic upbringing to conservative convictions.   * The future of the church in navigating racial and cultural challenges. Resources Mentioned  Chad O. Jackson’s upcoming documentary on MLK: Follow Chad for updates https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@ChadOJackson⁩ [https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UCLCDVjcVgfydwmymevviKUw]  Fault Lines by Voddie Baucham https://a.co/d/aNnTnKu Christianity and Liberalism by J. Gresham Machen https://a.co/d/0gVQtBP https://x.com/KJBrigg    Support the Plain Speech Podcast Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@plainspeechpodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/plain-speech-podcast/id1715924676 Subscribe on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6YUo4Y9gnP7do3EqjzoF77?si=1c8a3514c0314f91 Time Stamps 00:00 Debunking Myths About Martin Luther King 01:10 Introduction to the Plain Speech Podcast 01:19 Meet Kevin Brigans: Background and Beliefs 02:02 Navigating Race and Christianity 05:47 Kevin's Journey to Conservatism 06:39 Challenges of Being a Conservative Black Christian 08:22 The Impact of Social Justice on Church Unity 10:42 The Rise of Critical Race Theory in Churches 14:17 The Dangers of Activism in Christianity 26:22 Redefining Blackness and Whiteness 40:03 Embracing Ethnic Heritage and Identity in Christ 41:14 Navigating Racial Identity in America 43:10 The Woke Right and Its Implications 44:52 Challenges in Discussing Woke Ideologies 49:08 Reevaluating Martin Luther King's Legacy 53:36 The Civil Rights Movement: A Different Perspective 01:07:39 Cultural Influences and Social Dynamics 01:13:08 Future Challenges for Christians

C.R. Wiley's Guide to the Coming A.I. Apocalypse

In this conversation, Michael Clary and C. R. Wiley delve into the complexities of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for society, particularly from a Christian perspective. They explore the definition of AI, its rapid advancements, and the potential threats it poses to human vocation, dominion, and the risk of idolatry. Wiley emphasizes the need for establishing boundaries around AI and discusses the concept of transhumanism, where technology intersects with human existence. The conversation concludes with reflections on how Christians can prepare for the future in a world increasingly influenced by AI. In this conversation, C. R. Wiley and Michael Clary explore the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on spirituality, ethics, and pastoral ministry. They discuss the challenges posed by AI in prayer, the moral imperatives of technological progress, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding human enhancement technologies. The conversation also delves into the acceptable and unacceptable uses of AI in pastoral work, the integration of technology in the household, and the potential for AI to influence consciousness and spirituality, including concerns about demonic influence. Chapters 00:00 Understanding AI: A New Era of Technology 07:34 Theological Concerns: Vocation, Dominion, and Idolatry 14:33 Navigating the AI Landscape: Living with Technology 20:23 Transhumanism: The Intersection of AI and Humanity 26:42 Preparing for the Future: Anticipating Change in Ministry 29:08 The Role of AI in Prayer and Spirituality 30:47 Technological Progress and Moral Imperatives 32:44 Human Enhancement Technologies and Ethical Dilemmas 36:53 AI in Pastoral Ministry: Acceptable vs. Unacceptable Uses 45:03 Integrating Technology in the Household 50:13 AI, Consciousness, and Potential Demonic Influence

Jeff Durbin: I Never Thought I'd be a Pastor

In this conversation, Jeff shares his testimony of transformation from a life of addiction to a life dedicated to Christ. He recounts his early experiences with martial arts, his struggles with substance abuse, and the pivotal moments that led to his conversion. Jeff emphasizes the importance of discipleship and accountability in his journey, ultimately leading to the founding of Apologia Church, which serves those recovering from addiction. The discussion also touches on the challenges of integrating faith with recovery and the role of apologetics in his ministry. In this conversation, Jeff Durbin shares his journey of faith, mentorship, and the challenges of ministry. He reflects on his early encounters with evangelism, the influence of key figures in his life, and the role of the Holy Spirit in his work. Durbin discusses the balance between personal life and ministry, the joys and difficulties of serving in the church, and the importance of community support in his calling. 00:00 God's Calling to Plant a Church 00:32 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 01:00 King's Domain Conference Announcement 03:08 Jeff Durbin's Personal Testimony 07:51 Struggles with Addiction and Turning Point 17:17 Transformation and Ministry Beginnings 23:25 Challenges and Growth of Apologia Church 26:31 Cultural Changes and Christian Leadership 28:45 Reflections on Grace and Ministry 37:54 Facing Challenges in Ministry 39:14 Journey to Street Evangelism 39:55 Early Influences and Inspirations 42:36 Meeting James White and Growing in Apologetics 56:53 Reflections on God's Work and Personal Growth 01:04:16 Balancing Ministry and Personal Life 01:07:54 The Role of Martial Arts in Shaping Ministry 01:14:21 Concluding Thoughts and Future Events

Joe Rigney - The Sin of Empathy

In this conversation, Joe Rigney discusses his book 'The Sin of Empathy,' exploring the complexities and dangers of empathy in modern society. He contrasts empathy with sympathy, examines the biblical perspective on these emotions, and critiques the emotional manipulation that can arise from excessive empathy. Rigney argues that compassion has been elevated to a control virtue, often leading to selective empathy that neglects justice. He emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to compassion and emotional engagement, warning against the potential for empathy to lead to cruelty when disconnected from moral truth. In this conversation, Joe Rigney explores the complexities of compassion and empathy, particularly in the context of Christian leadership and pastoral care. He discusses the dangers of untethered empathy, the importance of maintaining boundaries, and the role of flattery in compromising truth. Rigney offers practical advice for pastors on how to navigate difficult situations with compassion while remaining anchored in truth. He concludes with insights on preparing for future challenges in Christian living, drawing lessons from the Book of Judges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Devil's Tactics 00:21 Guest Introduction: Dr. Joe Rigney 00:31 Upcoming Event: King's Domain Conference 02:13 Interview Begins: The Sin of Empathy 02:48 Understanding Empathy and Sympathy 04:12 Book Comparisons: Leadership and Emotional Sabotage vs. The Sin of Empathy 07:44 Biblical Context: Empathy vs. Sympathy 15:36 Empathy as Emotional Manipulation 17:47 Cultural Shifts and Challenges 23:55 Empathy in Modern Contexts 28:36 The Sin of Empathy: A Controversial Perspective 29:47 Lewis's Passion of Pity and Dangerous Compassion 32:15 Empathy vs. Enmeshment: The Boundaries Debate 33:43 Flattery and Deception in Christian Ministry 35:49 The Trap of Seeking Compassionate Reputation 41:03 Future-Proof Christianity: Standing Firm in Changing Times 42:34 Practical Advice for Pastors: Balancing Compassion and Truth 51:24 Navigating Tribalism in Modern Christianity 53:37 Conclusion and Upcoming Conference Details