CrossCurrent Podcasts

Evangelicals claim that their opposition to homosexuality is an inherent feature of their faith, rooted in their unchanging beliefs about the Bible. Most scholars, journalists, and observers have accepted this account; in Born Again Queer: A History of Evangelical Gay Activism and the Making of Antigay Christianity (Princeton UP, 2026) William Stell upends it. Arguing that the antigay majority in evangelicalism has been less dominant and more vulnerable than previously thought, Stell describes a network of authors, ministers, and professors—all veterans of major evangelical institutions—who worked in the 1970s and 1980s to persuade Christians that their churches should affirm the relationships and ministries of gay and lesbian members. By the late 1970s, some even thought that these activists might shape the future of evangelicalism.Of course, that speculation proved mistaken, and the antigay evangelical majority eventually overpowered the gay-affirming minority. Stell’s history of the rise and fall of evangelical gay activism shines a light on this largely forgotten chapter in American evangelicalism. Drawing on extensive archival research and interviews, Stell documents the work of four prominent activists: the founder of a predominantly LGBTQ+ denomination called the Metropolitan Community Churches, the leader of a gay advocacy organization called Evangelicals Concerned, and the evangelical feminist coauthors of the influential book Is the Homosexual My Neighbor? By recovering the successes of evangelical gay activists and the struggles of their opponents, Stell’s account transforms how we think about evangelicalism, how we talk about the culture wars, and how we approach both religion in queer movements and queer activism in religious movements. William Stell teaches in the Department of Religious Studies at New York University. This episode’s host, Jacob Barrett, is currently a PhD candidate in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in the Religion and Culture track. For more information, visit his website thereluctantamericanist.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

Grinding harder shows up as progress…until it starts creating the very problems founders are trying to solve. Kurt and Kristen Luidhardt were on site at the U.S. Christian Chamber of Commerce SWC 2026 conference, talking with founders across the event, each one pointing to a different moment where effort stopped working and alignment had to take over. With Kristen behind the camera, enjoy these conversations with Kurt and learn valuable lessons: -Shae Bynes (Author of Grace over Grind & Grace Under Pressure / Board member, US Christian Chamber of Commerce) moved from constant pressure into a model where decisions come through partnership with God instead of personal strain. -Rich Mason (Founder, Alpha Kingdom Capital) calls founders to answer whether the business is the right assignment before they commit to building it. -Elaine Lankford (Founder, She Steps Forward Coaching) identifies the early breaking point where financial pressure and lack of confidence collide. -Jacob Dyke (Founder, Anchor Coaching) shows how growth stalls when founders keep holding onto the same responsibilities that got them started. Across each conversation, the pattern holds: Leaders who keep chasing activity lose control of what they’re building, but the ones who narrow focus and align decisions build something that can actually sustain pressure. This episode fits business owners who are growing but can feel the gap between effort and direction. 0:00 Intro 01:23 Shae Bynes: Grace Over Grind 12:50 Rich Mason: Business as Mission + Risk 23:50 Elaine Lankford: Why Businesses Fail Early 33:14 Jacob Dyke: The Cost of Saying Yes to Everything Resources Mentioned: U.S. Christian Chamber of Commerce https://www.uschristianchamber.com Shae Bynes https://shaebynes.com/ Rich Mason https://www.rich-mason.com Alpha Kingdom Capital https://www.alphakingdomcapital.com She Steps Forward Coaching https://www.shestepsforwardcoaching.com Anchor Coaching https://www.anchorcoaching.co Connect with Liberty Spenders™: • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/libertyspenders • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libertyspenders • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/libertyspenders • Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-6192506 • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXn-vzlA03r59neWZD0ofJA • X: https://x.com/LibertySpenders Connect with Kurt and Kristen Luidhardt: • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luidhardts • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luidhardts • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/luidhardts • Truth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@luidhardts • X: https://x.com/luidhardts Liberty Spenders™ Podcast Join Kurt and Kristen, founders of Liberty Spenders™ on a groundbreaking podcast that unveils the secrets to tapping into the immense potential of the faith-based conservative market. With an estimated $5 trillion in annual spending power, this loyal and engaged consumer base represents a golden opportunity for businesses seeking rapid growth and increased customer loyalty. In each episode, Kurt and Kristen share their deep insights and proven strategies for authentically connecting with the Liberty Spender audience. Drawing from their extensive experience in political campaigns and their unique, data-driven approach, they guide listeners through the 5 Ps process: People, Positioning, Passion, Proof, and Product Launch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Powers profiles the Lost Frenchmens Mine and discussion of the latest legal news and SCOTUS decisions.

What if the world measured motherhood, not by perfection or public acclaim, but by quiet courage, surrender, and faith? In this heartfelt Mother’s Day episode of Christian Parent Crazy World, Catherine invites celebrated author and mentor Rhonda Stoppe to lift the veil on the real stories of the moms of the Bible—fearless, flawed, faithful, and sometimes forgotten women whose lives still shape generations. Drawing from her acclaimed new book, Moms of the Bible: Life Changing Lessons from the Fearless, Flawed, and Faithful, Rhonda Stoppe brings wisdom honed by decades of ministry, parenting, and podcasting (Old Ladies Know Stuff). Together, Catherine and Rhonda Stoppe explore what it means to mother in a world obsessed with perfection, reminding listeners that God’s view of motherhood is radically different—and infinitely more freeing. What You’ll Discover in This Episode God Sees and Honors Moms—Even When No One Else DoesScripture overflows with stories of mothers just like you—women who wrestled, wept, waited, and worshiped as God unfolded His plans in unexpected ways. While culture often dismisses the daily work of mothering as mundane or menial, Catherine and Rhonda Stoppe reveal how the Bible places immense value on those unseen acts of love and faithfulness. From Mary’s Brave Surrender to Rebecca’s Mistakes Hear how Mary, the mother of Jesus, chose courageous “yes” in the face of misunderstanding and rejection, modeling trust in God’s unseen plans. Explore Rebecca’s story—a tale of good intentions gone awry as she tries to “help” God’s promises along, unleashing sibling rivalry and a generational legacy. Learn that God works through flawed, real women, not perfect ones, and that repentance and humility write a new story for us and our children. The Power and Danger of Partiality Rhonda Stoppe uncovers the lasting damage of favoritism in families, drawing from biblical narratives and honest reflections on her own upbringing. Listeners are encouraged to honestly assess their parenting, seek God’s agape love, and pursue forgiveness and restoration when favoritism has taken root. When You Feel like the Mom with No Name Sometimes, a mother’s extraordinary impact is never recognized by the world—or even, at times, by her own children. The story of David’s unnamed mother powerfully affirms the kingdom value of unseen, faithful work. “The influence of unnamed mothers has shaped nations, inspired leaders, nurtured artists and motivated ordinary children to accomplish extraordinary achievements.” – Rhonda Stoppe Real Talk: Healing from Deep Wounds In a moving post-interview segment, Rhonda Stoppe addresses the pain of those raised by abusive mothers through the biblical story of Herodias and her daughter, offering hope, the necessity of Christ-centered forgiveness, and the invitation to seek healing through biblical counseling. Why This Matters In a culture that honors mothers with a day, but often disenfranchises the work of motherhood, this episode re-centers the sacredness, complexity, and generational reach of a mother’s influence. Catherine and Rhonda Stoppe invite you to see your mothering through the eyes of God—full of purpose, dignity, and hope. About the Guest Rhonda Stoppe is a bestselling author, speaker, mom of four, and grandmother of fifteen. Known for her practical wisdom and biblical insight, Rhonda is host of the Old L

Pastor David Whitney and Brian Shelly discuss the Ten Commandments and the Supreme Court decision to banish the display of them in public schools.  Lets take a look at the results. #Constitution #TenCommandments #moraldecay #decisionsandconsequences  

Send us Fan MailIs the Christian publishing industry changing in 2026? The answer might surprise you.In this episode of The Christian Indie Writers’ Podcast, we break down:• Why Christian fiction is quietly booming• What today’s readers really want (and what they’re tired of)• How the rise of indie publishing is reshaping the market• What this means for you as a writer in 2026If you’ve ever wondered why some books take off while others disappear, this conversation will give you clarity—and a path forward.Links discussed:https://www.firmenpresse.de/pressrelease734029/christian-fiction-14-7-yearly-surge-dramatic-market-expansion-data.html?utm_source=chatgpt.comhttps://www.writtenwordmedia.com/2025-indie-author-survey-results-insights-into-self-publishing-for-authors/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

We have been discussing California Looming Energy crisis the last couple of days, and Glenn Archambault, a member of the PIPELINE SAFETY TRUST talks with me about any chance of this challenge of getting oil to the refineries fixed. D62 quiz and open tallk

In an era of rising costs and impersonal systems, many families are looking for a healthcare alternative that aligns with their biblical values. This week, we sit down with Wes Humble from Liberty Health Share to explore the world of Christian health sharing. Unlike traditional insurance, health sharing is a community of believers who share one another’s medical burdens. We dive into how this model functions, the spiritual benefits of “bearing one another’s burdens,” and the practicalities of navigating healthcare as a member.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: The Biblical Foundation: How health sharing differs from traditional insurance profit motives. Community Values: Why shared beliefs create a more supportive and trustworthy environment. Eligible Expenses: Understanding how your healthcare dollars are used in accordance with your convictions. The Prayer Box: How members support each other emotionally and spiritually, not just financially. Practical Navigation: A look at direct billing and how the system has evolved to reduce stress for families.   RESOURCES MENTIONED: Liberty Health Share Free Resource: 7 Essential Attributes for Homeschool Success Teach Them Diligently Convention: Meet with like-minded families and hear more from world-class speakers. Click HERE to register today!   ABOUT THE GUEST:  Wes Humble has served at Liberty HealthShare since 2018. He has led as executive director of Ministry, Community Relations, and Events. He also conducts a monthly chapel for the staff at Liberty as well as caring for their pastoral needs.   PODCAST SPONSOR: Liberty HealthShare is a non-profit, charitable organization and a Christian medical cost-sharing ministry.  Its mission is to spread the gospel through care and encouragement. Like-minded individuals and families who share Christian values of stewardship and healthy living come together to support one another. Members across the United States share the burden of carrying medical expenses while uplifting each other through prayer and encouragement.   This year, Liberty HealthShare is celebrating its 30th anniversary and has introduced a new Charitable Fund, the Sharing Hearts Fund for Pediatric Wellness. This fund aims to help children in Stark County, Ohio, where the sharing ministry is based—get access to important wellness procedures that they may have missed due to financial constraints.  

 What would happen if you decided to be your child's mentor rather than their teacher? What if you awakened their wonder and curiosity so that they became the kind of people who thirst for knowledge and understanding?Today, I’m revisiting a conversation about those very questions that I had a few years ago with Sally Clarkson. I’m lucky to count Sally as a dear friend and I know that her work has been transformational for me and for so many of you.In this episode, Sally shares how we can inspire our kids to become lifelong readers and learners right in our own homes.In this episode, you’ll hear: How to make your homeschool a place of resources for your unique childrenWhat is different about being your child’s mentor, rather than their teacherWhy modeling curiosity and excitement about learning in your homeschool matters more than any curriculumLearn more about Sarah Mackenzie:Read-Aloud RevivalWaxwing BooksSubscribe to the NewsletterFind the rest of the show notes at: readaloudrevival.com/becoming-your-childs-mentor

A 14-year sentence didn’t start the fight… It forced a new one. Kurt and Kristen Luidhardt sit down with Jeff Martinovich, who went from running a billion dollar wealth management firm to federal prison after cooperating with regulators during the financial crisis. By the time the case reached trial, public allegations had already collapsed the business and stripped away capital, reputation, and leverage. In prison, Jeff Martinovich rebuilt structure day by day. Law library in the morning. Physical training at night. Classic literature, scripture, prayer, and meditation filled the gaps. That routine became the only thing he could control when the system had already decided the outcome. What follows is how he endured it, and what he rebuilt (even better) on the other side. 0:00 Intro 06:45 The Black Swan Moment 11:54 Facing a 14-Year Sentence 18:21 Public Shaming Strategy 23:26 Courtroom Power Dynamics 29:41 Attorney Betrayal 34:57 Prison Survival and FOIA Discovery 40:03 Asset Protection Failures 46:52 Daily Survival Structure 51:50 The 1% Discipline System 59:33 Lightning Round Resources Mentioned: When Not If by Jeff Martinovich https://a.co/d/0j1y5iOw Jeff’s website: https://www.jeffmartinovich.com Ash Business Advisory https://www.ashbizadvisory.com/ Lifeforce https://www.mylifeforce.com/ Connect with Liberty Spenders™: • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/libertyspenders • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libertyspenders • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/libertyspenders • Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-6192506 • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXn-vzlA03r59neWZD0ofJA • X: https://x.com/LibertySpenders Connect with Kurt and Kristen Luidhardt: • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luidhardts • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luidhardts • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/luidhardts • Truth Social: https://truthsocial.com/@luidhardts • X: https://x.com/luidhardts Liberty Spenders™ Podcast Join Kurt and Kristen, founders of Liberty Spenders™ on a groundbreaking podcast that unveils the secrets to tapping into the immense potential of the faith-based conservative market. With an estimated $5 trillion in annual spending power, this loyal and engaged consumer base represents a golden opportunity for businesses seeking rapid growth and increased customer loyalty. In each episode, Kurt and Kristen share their deep insights and proven strategies for authentically connecting with the Liberty Spender audience. Drawing from their extensive experience in political campaigns and their unique, data-driven approach, they guide listeners through the 5 Ps process: People, Positioning, Passion, Proof, and Product Launch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the Greco-Roman world, gods were known to tame soundscapes, or acoustic landscapes. Zeus, Apollo, Orpheus, and other Classical deities demonstrated their power by bringing order to chaotic sound worlds, replacing cacophony with harmony. In late antiquity, Christians took up this archetype and applied it to Jesus. For many early Christians, the advent of Christ resembled the modern phenomenon of a musical key change, but on a grand scale: Jesus initiated a recalibration of the cosmic soundscape, ushering in a new world. However, according to many Christians in late antiquity, this universal key change was not yet complete. Late ancient Christians believed that they could participate in the ongoing sonic work of Christ by Christianizing the acoustic landscapes of the world.In Sounds for a New World: The Christianizing Soundscapes of Late Antiquity (Oxford UP, 2026), Dr. Philip Abbott explores how late ancient Christians envisioned themselves as participants in the worldwide retuning effort, harmonizing the Classical world to the new Christian reality. Rejecting the sounds of traditional Greco-Roman and Persian cultures, Christians advocated a variety of sonic practices to realize their grand retuning endeavor, including shouting, singing, silent meditation, chanting, and even belching. From the Latin West to the Syriac East, late ancient Christians formed a polyphonous chorus of diverse voices all joining in the great harmonizing work of Jesus as they Christianized the soundscapes of the world.For years, scholars have noted the monumental changes that took place in early Christianity during the so-called Constantinian Revolution. But Dr. Abbott turns our attention to an unexplored aspect of this transitional moment, arguing that it was not simply a political or religious revolution - it was a revolution of the senses. Central to this sensorial transformation was sound. As Christianity gained imperial power in the fourth century, Christians began the process of re-tuning the world for Christ. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose book focuses on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. You can find Miranda’s interviews on New Books with Miranda Melcher, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSupport our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

Pastor Whitney and Brian Shelly are discussing what happens when government steps out of its God ordained role.  How government intervention in God's blueprint for the family has ruined people.   #Constitution #Family #government  

If you've caught Micah Kunkle debating "Progressive" ideas on Jubilee or other platforms, you already know he's the real deal. Micah joins the TBU podcast to talk debate strategy, why so many young men are drawn to "strong male" influencers pushing harmful ideas, and how we can engage Gen Z in the fight for children's rights. He's one of those rare voices who's both a rigorous thinker and genuinely kind in disagreement, there's a lot to learn just from watching him. Find Micah: Youtube  ⁨@micahkunkle⁩  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/micahkunkle/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@micahkunkleAnd more about Maven: https://maventruth.com/

Send us Fan MailIs the Christian publishing industry changing in 2026? The answer might surprise you.In part 2 of this series, we break down what’s really happening in the world of Christian publishing—and what it means for YOU as a writer.From the rise of indie authors and hybrid publishing to the growing importance of building your own platform, the industry is shifting in a big way. The traditional gatekeepers don’t hold the same power they once did, and more writers than ever have the opportunity to share their message directly with readers.But with that opportunity comes new challenges.We talk about:How the role of the author is expanding beyond just writingWhy platform matters more than everThe power of niche writingAnd moreWhether you're writing Christian fiction, nonfiction, or just starting your first book, this conversation will equip you to move forward with purpose.Prompt: Chain, bell, rain, door, sand

"We are not machines; we are living things. And the church is not a factory; it is a garden."What are the images that shape your ministry? For many leaders, the dominant metaphors are often corporate or industrial—efficiency, scale, and production. But as the cultural landscape shifts, many pastors are finding these images are no longer sufficient for the soul-work of the local church.In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Matt Erickson, Senior Pastor of Eastbrook Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Matt brings a unique blend of urban pastoral experience and a deep commitment to the Christian imagination. A graduate of the Eugene Peterson Center for Christian Imagination, Matt has spent years thinking through how the metaphors we use dictate the health of our leadership.We discuss his new book, The Pastor as Gardener: A Renewed Vision for Ministry (releasing at the end of March). Matt shares why he believes the image of the gardener offers a more resilient, organic, and faithful way to lead in a complex world.In this conversation, we explore:Why the "CEO" or "Manager" metaphors are failing the modern pastor.The patient, rhythmic work of "tending the soil" in an urban, multiracial context.How the Eugene Peterson Center influenced his vision for pastoral ministry.Practical ways to shift your leadership from a mindset of production to one of cultivation.About Matt EricksonMatt Erickson has served as the Senior Pastor at Eastbrook Church since 2011. He holds a Doctor of Ministry from Western Theological Seminary. Matt and his wife, Kelly, live in Milwaukee and are the parents of three adult children.

To say yes to something good, you often have to say no to other things. In the past, we’ve discussed that sometimes quitting writing is the right move for your career and life.But what about when you know you can't quit?What do you do when you feel called to write but the work is hard, success is nowhere in sight, and you're dragging your feet? What if you need the income from writing to feed your family?In this episode of the Christian Publishing Show, Brian Hicks joins me to talk about how writers can keep going. Brian has spent decades studying what separates people who push through from people who give up.You’ll learn:The ultimate motivation hack for Christian writers that has nothing to do with bestseller lists or salesThe daily choice that will change your writing lifeThe best (and worst) way to start your writing careerListen in or read the blog version to find out how you can keep writing when you're broke, rejected, and exhausted.Blog Link: https://www.christianpublishingshow.com/how-to-stay-motivated-when-writing-gets-hard/Author Media.social Link: https://authormedia.social/c/christian-publishing-show/how-to-stay-motivated-when-writing-gets-hardSupport the show

Light for my path Psalm 119 is divided into 22 sections, which represent the 22 letters in the Hebrew alphabet. "Nun" = 14th of 22 Hebrew letters. It signifies a "fish" (representing life/continuation) or a "faithful/bent-over servant," symbolizing humility and submission. (Joshua son of Nun) "Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119‬:‭105‬ ‭ "A Lamp for the next sentence" As Kingdom writers, we often want God to show us the whole story at once—the full outline, the perfect ending, the flawless draft. But this little verse reminds us that God usually gives light for the next step, not the entire road. A lamp doesn't flood the path with daylight. It reveals just enough to move forward safely. In the same way, God's Word may not reveal your entire book, message, or calling today—but it will illuminate your next paragraph, your next idea, your next faithful act of obedience. "For their command is a lamp and their instruction a light; their corrective discipline is the way to life." ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭6‬:‭23‬ ‭ "Because of that experience, we have even greater confidence in the message proclaimed by the prophets. You must pay close attention to what they wrote, for their words are like a lamp shining in a dark place—until the Day dawns, and Christ the Morning Star shines in your hearts. Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet's own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God." ‭‭2 Peter‬ ‭1‬:‭19‬-‭21‬ ‭ If we give God's Word daily attention, it will provide us with the direction, correction, and wisdom we need to be the best Kingdom writers we can be. We are humbling ourselves and acknowledging our need when we open God's Word. We won't find anything in the world that matches its substance and guidance. It's 'alive and active' as Hebrews 4:12 says, because the same God who spoke creation into being by His word is the same God who spoke the words in our Bibles. He's the same God who will empower our own written words that point to Him. Closing: God is not asking you to see the whole journey. He is asking you to trust Him with the next line. Resources: If you're ready to take a step of faith and finally finish your book, we have a few ways we can help you. 1. Free Writing Week Challenge: Create a Writing Habit in 15 Minutes a Day Even if you feel overwhelmed or stuck in procrastination, sitting down to write for just 15 minutes a day is the best way to finally reach your writing goals. Most writers think they need hours of uninterrupted time to make progress in their writing. However, in this free challenge, we will show you how much you can accomplish in just 15 minutes of focused writing. Click here to create a consistent writing habit this week. 2. Book Writing Lab Workshop - Map Out Your Book in Just 90 Minutes If over the last year, you've struggled to get your book written, this workshop is for you. Choose your book topic, write an outline, and create a writing plan in just 90 minutes! Finally, feel confident that you will actually finish your book. Get started now for just $27 3. Want More Support? Join Christian Book Academy Most writers stay stuck and never finish their first draft. Inside Christian Book Academy, we help you p

As part of budget cuts, our parent ministry has decided to close its faith and pop culture program, which means the end for the Think Christian podcast. On this short podcast, Josh gives a final farewell and thank you to our readers, listeners, viewers, and supporters.

Mimosa by Amy Carmichael A True Story Published by CLC Publications. Read by Katherine Pittman. Produced by Books and Parchments.

How often do you think upon the beauty of God? How often do you treasure it and steward it? Do you know that even now, God is making you beautiful? In this episode, we discuss Philip Ryken's exposition on the theology of beauty. For what it's worth, this was John's favorite discussion to date besides Knowing God Pt 2. :) ---What book would you like us to discuss next? Email us at [email protected] along for quotes! Instagram: greatchristianbooks

After leaving the Parisian chair, Bonaventura retires in meditation on Mount Verna, to embark on a contemplative itinerary that leads him to God. The first stage of this journey is the contemplation of the creatures. Bonaventure shows the reader the degrees of the ascent to God, degrees that man can know and travel through the prayer. The physical world is described as a mirror and as a book through which it is possible to reach God: «He who is not brightened [illustratur] by such splendors of created things is blind; he who does not awake at such clamors is deaf; he who does not praise God on account of [ex] all these effects is mute; he who does not turn towards [advertit] the First Principle on account of such indications [indiciis] is stupid.»https://inters.org/Bonaventure-God-Vestiges-Universe