Best Mainline Christianity Podcasts (2025)

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Non-Anxious Leadership in Anxious Times with Jack Shitama | Episode 256 35:59

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1d ago35:59

35:59

Jack Shitama, an ordained United Methodist minister, talks about the concept of societal regression and its implications for leadership and community engagement. Shitama explains how societal regression mirrors emotional regression in families, characterized by polarization and a desire for quick fixes. He discusses the role of non-anxious leaders …

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Safe Space vs. Gatekeeping 1:04:58

4d ago1:04:58

1:04:58

The ideas of safe space and gatekeeping get traction around the web. What do both mean, and what is the answer to providing safe space while not closing the door on other interested people? Join Dr. Lee Ann Marino and guests Ministers Nik Lewis and Charlie Reep (Sanctuary Charlotte) for a conversation about gatekeeping, safe space, the need for bal…

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Pray. Work. Rest. Repeat. - Episode #4206 47:02

5d ago47:02

47:02

Join us for Episode 4206 with Rev. Susan Sparks, senior pastor of Madison Avenue Baptist Church (New York, NY). In “Pray. Work. Rest. Repeat.” on 2 Thessalonians 1:1–4, 11–12, Susan invites us into a Christ-centered rhythm that keeps us aligned with God’s call: begin in prayer, serve with purpose, and honor holy rest. This All Saints Sunday (Year C…

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A Good Word for Kumbaya with Anthony Robinson | Episode 255 47:45

8d ago47:45

47:45

Tony Robinson discusses the significance of phrases like 'Kumbaya' and 'thoughts and prayers' in today's polarized society. He explores the cynicism surrounding these terms, the role of anger and contempt in political discourse, and the impact of technology on human interaction. Robinson emphasizes the need for genuine dialogue within faith communi…

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The Light We Cannot See - Episode #4205 42:15

12d ago42:15

42:15

Join us for Day1 Episode 4205 as Rev. Dr. Sam Wells, vicar of St Martin-in-the-Fields (London), preaches “The Light We Cannot See” on Luke 18:9–14. Drawing on the Pharisee and the tax collector, Wells explores humility, grace, and the dangers of self-righteousness—inviting us to see one another as gifts rather than rivals. In this Proper 25, Year C…

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How Should Christians Protest? with Carl Ellis 36:06

12d ago36:06

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Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. went to great lengths to theologically ground his arguments for protest. Dr. Carl Ellis, a veteran protestor and Christian thinker on the topic, does the same in this insightful podcast.By Carl Ellis, Chris Yaw, Richelle Thompson

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Coping with Suicide with Albert Jennings 51:57

12d ago51:57

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The Rev. Albert Jennings has lost both his daughter and his brother to suicide. His keen and authentic observations can help people understand and better deal with suicide.By Albert Jennings, Chris Yaw, Richelle Thompson

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Introducing Dietrich Bonhoeffer with Dallas Gingles 49:09

12d ago49:09

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Dietrich Bonhoeffer was an incredibly gifted intellectual, devout and pious Christian, and prolific author of devotional books. Yet he was killed by the Nazis for his role in an assassination attempt on Adolph Hitler - just days before Berlin was liberated. Learn more about this enigmatic figure from a Bonhoeffer expert.…

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The Fruits of the Spirit: Generosity with Teresa Phares 42:02

12d ago42:02

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Generosity is one of St. Paul's 9 fruits of the spirit - as mentioned in Galatians 5. What is it and how can we cultivate it? Come listen to Teresa Phares, a youth and young adult leader in the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma.By Chris Yaw, Richelle Thompson

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Counter-intuititive Aruguments on Israel with Andrew Berg | Episode 254 42:53

15d ago42:53

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I chat with Andrew Berg, who authored “Counterintuitive Arguments for and Against U.S. Support for Israel.” Andrew challenges conventional political narratives and examines the moral implications of U.S. support from both conservative and progressive angles. Andrew emphasizes the need for empathy toward both Palestinians and Israelis and advocates …

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Walking Away from Church Runaround Rewind 51:41

18d ago51:41

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Christian leaders often want to do things right. As a result, we sometimes find ourselves influenced by others who, though well-meaning, often send us running in different directions. In this rewind episode from Season 1, Episode 14, learn how God started to deal with Apostle Dr. Lee Ann Marino about these matters, and just where He has taken her i…

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Prayer as Prophetic Imagination - Episode #4204 42:55

19d ago42:55

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Join us for Episode 4204 with Rev. Grace Imathiu of First United Methodist Church (Evanston, IL). In “Prayer as Prophetic Imagination,” rooted in Luke 18:1-8, Grace invites us to see prayer not as passive pleading but as a resilient, justice-seeking life with God. Drawing on themes of lament, hope, and persistence, she explores how prayer strengthe…

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Progressive Christianity's Barmen Mistake with Anthony Baker | Episode 253 56:23

22d ago56:23

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Professor Anthony Baker discusses the Barmen Declaration and its implications for American Christianity today. We analyze its historical context from the 1930s and why we are not currently experiencing a similar moment. Professor Baker emphasizes the declaration's intent to maintain the church's independence from the state, a principle that modern …

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How to Hear from God 1:13:50

25d ago1:13:50

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By (Apostle) Dr. Lee Ann B. Marino

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Called to Trust God - Episode #4203 38:58

26d ago38:58

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By Day1.org

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How the Big, Beautiful Bill Killed Compassionate Conservatism with John Fea | Episode 252 58:10

29d ago58:10

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Today we look at the compassionate conservatism and its relevance in today's political climate with historian John Fea. We examine the origins of this movement, rooted in social justice and faith-based initiatives, and its initial implementation during the George W. Bush administration, particularly through programs like PEPFAR. John highlights how…

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When Idols Fall 1:04:30

1M ago1:04:30

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We've frequently discussed the issue of idolatry on our program. What happens when our idols fall? Why does God allow such to happen? Join Dr. Lee Ann Marino and guest Julie Harvey from Encouragement for Today (Adelaide, Australia) for a conversation what we do when idols fall...and what we are supposed to learn from such situations. (Intro and Con…

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Keep Faith and Guard the Good Deposit - Episode #4202 39:09

1M ago39:09

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Join us for Episode 4202 with Rev. Mark Birch, Canon Rector of Westminster Abbey (London), preaching “Keep Faith and Guard the Good Deposit” on 2 Timothy 1:1–14. Drawing on coronation imagery and baptismal themes, Rev. Birch reflects on handing down a rich, sometimes mysterious faith—beyond metrics, success, or failure. In this Proper 22 (27), 17th…

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The Mainline Churches and Gaza with Todd Stavrakos | Episode 251 48:34

1M ago48:34

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Todd Stavrakos discusses the mission of Pathways for Peace, focusing on fostering dialogue between the Jewish and mainline Christian communities regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict. He highlights the current humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the complexities of the situation, including the roles of Hamas and the Israeli government. The discussion…

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My Body, My Choice Rewind 1:16:09

1M ago1:16:09

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Abortion remains a controversial issue, both in the United States and around the world. Women who undergo abortion as a medical procedure are often stigmatized as young, irresponsible, uncaring, and among extremists, "murderers." What is it like to face a situation where abortion is necessary, and a woman is forced to make that decision to choose b…

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Dinner with a Prophet - Episode #4201 46:20

1M ago46:20

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Episode 4201 features Rev. Jody Andrade (Presbytery of Greater Atlanta) with “Dinner with a Prophet,” on Jeremiah 32:1–3a, 6–15. Let’s be honest—Jeremiah is the last person you’d invite to a cozy dinner party. He’s intense, unfiltered, and not much for small talk. Yet Rev. Andrade reminds us that around his table we find the real feast: truth-telli…

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Depriving Politics of Pathos with Jason Micheli | Episode 250 53:05

1M ago53:05

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I chat with Jason Micheli, a United Methodist pastor, on the pitfalls of pathos in politics, emphasizing its potential to overshadow core Christian tenets. Drawing on Jason's article "Deprive Them of Their Pathos," we reflect on Karl Barth’s theological insights, arguing against conflating faith with political ideologies. Our conversation addresses…

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Fear That Becomes Faith 32:07

2M ago32:07

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The story of Pentecost has inspired countless generations to embrace God's Spirit in their lives. What's the story behind the first Pentecost? Inspired by real-life events, join Dr. Lee Ann Marino for a look at her live message, "I'm in a Pentecost State of Mind" delivered on Pentecost Sunday, 2025 at Sanctuary International Fellowship Tabernacle -…

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Insisting on Praise: Reading Psalm 79 Together - Episode #4200 1:02:05

2M ago1:02:05

1:02:05

Join us for Day1 Episode 4200, “Insisting on Praise: Reading Psalm 79 Together,” featuring Rev. Dr. Jason Byassee of Timothy Eaton Memorial Church and Rabbi Yael Splansky of Holy Blossom Temple in Toronto, the first Jewish voice ever featured on Day1 in its 80-year history. Byassee preaches “Through not For” and Splansky offers “Insisting on Song: …

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Compelling Preaching and the Iowa Preachers Project with Ken Sundet Jones | Episode 249 1:15:15

2M ago1:15:15

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In this episode, Ken Sundet Jones discusses the Iowa Preachers Project, emphasizing the importance of community among pastors and the need for compelling preaching in today's context. We look at the challenges pastors face, the significance of grace in preaching, and the transformative power of the gospel. Iowa Preachers Project Lutheran Toolkit by…

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Relationships and Mental Health 59:16

2M ago59:16

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Relationships can make or break mental health. Why does it make a difference, and how can partners aid in mental health support? Join Apostle Dr. Lee Ann Marino and guests Ministers Nik Lewis and Charlie Reep and Brad Loggins, all of Sanctuary in Charlotte, North Carolina, for a discussion about Brad Loggins's book, Breaking the Silence: A Journey …

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Our Lover's Quarrel with the World - Day1 Classics - Episode #4199 35:51

2M ago35:51

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Join us for Day1 Episode 4199 with the Rev. Dr. Theodore A. Gill of San Francisco Theological Seminary. In his sermon, "Our Lover's Quarrel with the World," based on John 3:13-17, Dr. Gill explores how Christians are called to both critique and cherish the world, holding together the tension of God’s judgment and God’s love. Originally preached in …

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Anger, Grace, Politics and Jesus with Aaron Zimmerman | Episode 248 51:56

2M ago51:56

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If there is one word that could describe our current politics, it would be anger. The anger in our politics doesn’t seem to move us forward towards solutions, but forces us to draw lines. And this anger seems to infect our relationships, especially our churches. How can we move past this anger and be faithful Christians who love each other regardle…

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Seen, Known, Loved - Episode #4198 46:03

2M ago46:03

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Join us for Episode 4198 of Day1 with Rev. Dr. Barry Jones, Senior Pastor of Irving Bible Church in Dallas-Fort Worth. In his sermon “Seen, Known, Loved,” based on Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18, Dr. Jones explores what it means to be fully seen, deeply known, and unconditionally loved by God. Speaking into the chaos, shame, and suffering we face, he reminds…

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163 Practical Solutions for a Failing Social Security System 40:20

2M ago40:20

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Is Social Security going bankrupt? Not exactly, but it is in trouble. What is the actual problem? What are good solutions? And why can't we pass the common-sense solutions? Facebook group thehopperpodcast.org Bonus Episodes Write us: [email protected]

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Revival, Renewal, and the Future of the Disciples – Live from GA with Loren Richmond Jr. | Episode 247 56:18

2M ago56:18

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This is a crossover episode with Future Christian and sort of a tradition with my colleague Loren Richmond Jr. as we converse from the General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Memphis, TN. We did this together in person in 2023 when GA was in Louisville, KY. We talked about the event and the state of the denomination. This …

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In Search of Another City - Day1 Classics - Episode #4197 35:54

2M ago35:54

35:54

Join us for Episode 4197 of "Day1 Classics" featuring Rev. Dr. Jorge Lara-Braud, founding director of the Hispanic American Institute in Austin, Texas. In his powerful 1976 sermon, "In Search of Another City," based on Hebrews 13:10-16, Lara-Braud calls us to live as pilgrims pursuing God's future, challenging nationalism, religious complacency, an…

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Thanksgiving and Gratitude, Despite the Mess of Life - Episode #4196 34:00

2M ago34:00

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Join us for Day1 Episode 4196 with Rev. Shuna Dicks, minister of Cults Parish Church in Aberdeen, Scotland. Her sermon, "Thanksgiving and Gratitude, Despite the Mess of Life," based on 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24, explores how gratitude can ground us—even in life’s most chaotic moments. Preaching with warmth and wisdom, Rev. Dicks reflects on covenant,…

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162 Mainline Churches are Dying, What's Next? 26:50

3M ago26:50

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The divide between theologically conservative and liberal churches is growing wider, is there hope for liberal churches? Let's talk about it. Facebook group thehopperpodcast.org Bonus Episodes Write us: [email protected] Dave and William

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BONUS: August Break and the Magnificat 7:18

3M ago7:18

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A short note to let you all know I'm taking a break for the next two weeks and returning on August 29. I share some notes on the future of the podcast and end with some hopeful words from the Mother of Jesus. Resurrection Hope Amidst the Broken Politics of 2025 with Drew McIntyre | Episode 241 Should Christians Leave Trump's America? with Amy Mantr…

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Kingdom Now Season 7 Preview Episode 15:59

3M ago15:59

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Season 7 of Kingdom Now returns September 9! What does this season have in store? Join (Apostle) Dr. Lee Ann Marino for a quick update to ministry happenings, the coming e-newsletter, upcoming guests and episodes, and more! (Intro and Conclusion Track "Fire Ball" by Yvgeniy Sorokin, https://pixabay.com/users/eugenemyers-40510887/.)…

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Daughters of Zelophehad - Episode #4195 45:20

3M ago45:20

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Join us for Episode 4195 of Day1 featuring Dr. Ryan Bonfiglio, Old Testament scholar and professor at Emory’s Candler School of Theology. In his sermon “Daughters of Zelophehad,” based on Numbers 27:1-11, Dr. Bonfiglio explores how five courageous women shaped biblical tradition by seeking justice within their community. Through this message, he in…

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The Church, The Trump Administation and the Dual State with Chris Gehrz | Episode 246 1:22:20

3M ago1:22:20

1:22:20

Is there value in historical analogies? Yes and no. Many have tried to make comparisons between Donald Trump and Adolph Hitler that end up not being helpful to understand the times we are living in. But then there are other times when looking at how past societies dealt with creeping authoritarianism can serve as a lesson for contemporary politics.…

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Go Outside and Play! - Episode #4194 47:09

3M ago47:09

47:09

Join us for Day1 Episode 4194 with Rev. Dr. Ebby Arnold of Candler School of Theology, Emory University. In her sermon, “Go Outside and Play!” based on Genesis 15:1-6, Dr. Arnold explores how stepping outside—literally and spiritually—expands our imagination and renews our hope in God’s promises. Through vivid storytelling and theological insight, …

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161 Silly Trivia Games 29:20

3M ago29:20

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Time to take a step back from the heavy topics and have some fun. William puts Dave to the test with silly trivia games. Play along, learn something, and have some fun. Facebook group thehopperpodcast.org Bonus Episodes Write us: [email protected] Dave and William

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Should Christians Leave Trump's America? with Amy Mantravadi | Episode 245 1:22:36

3M ago1:22:36

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In this conversation, Amy Mantravadi discusses her article on 'the theology of staying,' where she reflects on the historical context of Christianity in Egypt and the challenges faced by Christians in the Middle East. The discussion also delves into Dietrich Bonhoeffer's experiences in Nazi Germany, exploring the complexities of staying or leaving …

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King’s X - Episode #4193 36:08

3M ago36:08

36:08

Join us for another "Day1 Classics" Episode #4193 featuring Dr. James A. Wharton, beloved professor and Presbyterian pastor, with his timeless sermon “King’s X,” based on Hosea 11:1-9. Originally preached in 1972, this powerful message explores divine love, idolatry, and God’s refusal to give up on us—even when we choose death over life. With comme…

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160 Common Sense Immigration Reform: This Path Could Actually Work 1:00:02

3M ago1:00:02

1:00:02

What if there were a path forward on immigration that both sides could support? In this episode of the Hopper Podcast, we sit down with Jim Neighbors, the author of a surprising, hopeful, and economically grounded proposal for integrating undocumented immigrants into American society. With 11 to 13 million undocumented individuals currently living …

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Reimagining Church Communication with Josh Linman | Episode 244 51:38

3M ago51:38

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In this conversation, Josh Linman shares his faith journey from being a pastor's kid to founding Common Good Creative, a company focused on enhancing church communication. He discusses the importance of storytelling, community connection, and the role of technology and AI in modern church communication. Linman emphasizes the need for churches to ad…

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Shameless Audacity: Learning to Pray with Jesus - Episode #4192 46:51

3M ago46:51

46:51

Join us for Day1 Episode 4192 as Rev. Leon Stevenson of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Cleveland, Ohio, brings a powerful message titled “Shameless Audacity: Learning to Pray with Jesus,” based on Luke 11:1-13. In this sermon for the 7th Sunday after Pentecost, Rev. Stevenson explores what it means to pray with boldness, humility, and trust…

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LGBTQ Allies and Effective Inclusion with Ryan Self | Episode 243 1:03:13

4M ago1:03:13

1:03:13

In this episode of Church and Main, Ryan Self, a gay Christian from Austin, Texas, discusses LGBTQ inclusion in church communities. Ryan shares his journey from a conservative background to more affirming spaces, highlighting the pitfalls of churches that claim inclusivity yet fail to embody it. We discuss the balance between activism and faith, cr…

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Truth Shared in Song - Episode #4191 53:50

4M ago53:50

53:50

Join us for Episode 4191 of Day1 with the Rev. Robb Webb, director of the Rural Church Division of The Duke Endowment in Charlotte, NC. In his sermon, “Truth Shared in Song,” based on Colossians 1:15-28, Rev. Webb explores the power of hymns to shape belief and reveal divine truth. Drawing from Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he highlights how sin…

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Is the Emergent Church Back? with Andrew Crowson | Episode 242 49:26

4M ago49:26

49:26

The Emergent Church seemed to be the future of the church, until it wasn't. Andrew Crowson joins the podcast to discuss how the movement initially attracted young evangelicals by challenging traditional church norms, yet ultimately struggled with its identity and connection to foundational beliefs. Andrew shares insights from his experiences and hi…

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Who Is My Neighbor? - Episode #4190 40:12

4M ago40:12

40:12

Join us for Day1 Episode 4190 as Rev. Adam Mixon, pastor of Zion Spring Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL, delivers his sermon "Who Is My Neighbor?" based on Luke 10:25-37. In this timely message for the 5th Sunday after Pentecost (Year C), Rev. Mixon explores how labels, compassion, and justice intersect in the call to love our neighbors. With hone…

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Resurrection Hope Amidst the Broken Politics of 2025 with Drew McIntyre | Episode 241 59:29

4M ago59:29

59:29

Where can we find hope in the current political context? For Methodist pastor Drew McIntyre, that hope took place in an empty tomb when Jesus rose from the dead. Drew and I talk about the distinction between hope and optimism, and the cultural pessimism prevalent in society today. We also look at the significance of the bodily resurrection of Jesus…