Protesters in the Sanctuary: Responding to Disruption at a Cities Church

*Note: This episode was recorded prior to the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti on January 24, 2026, in Minneapolis. That event is not covered in the discussion.*In this episode, Pastors Josh and Zack discuss a recent disruption at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota—a fellow Southern Baptist congregation in the SEND Network—where anti-ICE protesters interrupted a worship service to protest a lay pastor's role with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). They explore the broader context, including tensions in Minnesota around ICE operations, the tragic shooting of Renee Good, and ongoing debates over immigration enforcement.The hosts affirm biblical principles: supporting legal immigration and care for sojourners while upholding the rule of law, rejecting comparisons to Jesus cleansing the temple, and recognizing no inherent conflict in Christians serving in law enforcement. They address how media narratives fuel division, why such events shouldn't surprise believers (1 Peter 4:12), and practical steps churches can take—prioritizing orderly worship, hospitality toward outsiders, calm gospel proclamation in disruption, following "run, hide, fight" protocols if threats arise, and showing love to enemies even in hostility.Ultimately, they encourage trusting God's sovereignty, maintaining unchanging biblical convictions amid cultural chaos, and preparing to glorify Christ as a witness, whether through everyday faithfulness or unexpected trials.Thinking biblically about immigration, borders, and loving our neighbors: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SgvjqT3ups