The Chorus in the Chaos

In this episode, Jack sits down with Pastor Braden Patterson to hear his powerful testimony of growing up in Mormonism, coming to faith in Jesus Christ, and now serving as a pastor in biblical Christianity. Braden shares what life was like in a deeply committed LDS home, how he viewed Christians while growing up, and how Mormon theology shaped his understanding of God, salvation, and purpose. He also explains the crushing burden of works-based religion and the peace he found in the finished work of Christ. The conversation walks through the turning point that began his departure from Mormonism, the role Scripture played in exposing error, and the dramatic moment when he could no longer deny that Jesus is Lord and God. Braden also gives thoughtful, practical advice for Christians who want to engage Mormons faithfully, biblically, and lovingly. Connect Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected] Generations Be sure to visit our friends at Generations.org! They’ve built an incredible library of Christ-centered homeschool curriculum, books, and podcasts — all designed to help your family apply the Bible to every area of life. History, science, worldview, you name it — it all points back to Christ. Use the code CHORUS at checkout for 15% off your order. This is a helpful and sobering conversation about false religion, true conversion, the necessity of sound doctrine, and the beauty of the gospel of grace.

In this episode of Chorus in the Chaos, Jack, Grayson, and Blake begin their two-part look at Mormonism by tracing its history from the life of Joseph Smith to the early growth of the movement. They walk through Smith’s claimed visions, the story of the golden plates, the role of seer stones, the lost 116 pages, the Book of Mormon’s publication, and the conflicts that followed in Missouri and Nauvoo. This episode is focused on the historical narrative and major events that shaped Mormonism’s beginnings. In the next episode, the guys will shift to the theology of Mormonism and compare its teachings with biblical Christianity. Connect Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected] Generations Be sure to visit our friends at Generations.org! They’ve built an incredible library of Christ-centered homeschool curriculum, books, and podcasts — all designed to help your family apply the Bible to every area of life. History, science, worldview, you name it — it all points back to Christ. Use the code CHORUS at checkout for 15% off your order.

What does it mean to receive the Kingdom of God like a child? In this episode of The Chorus in the Chaos, Jack walks through Luke 18:15–17, where Jesus rebukes His disciples and welcomes infants and children, declaring that “to such belongs the kingdom of God.” Far from being a sentimental moment, this passage reveals something profound about humility, faith, and how salvation works. This episode also asks a hard but necessary question: How might we—parents, churches, and Christians—be hindering children from coming to Jesus today? Along the way, we examine: - Why Jesus prioritizes children and rebukes His own disciples - How pride and self-reliance block the gospel - Why children are a “canary in the coal mine” for cultural health - Five practical ways adults can hinder (or help) children come to Christ - Why salvation is received, not achieved - What it really means to trust God like a child Whether you’re a parent, pastor, or simply wrestling with faith and trust, this episode calls us to lay down pride, abandon self-confidence, and receive the gospel with humility, joy, and faith. Key Scripture References: Luke 18:15–17 Luke 18:9–14 (Pharisee and Tax Collector) Luke 18:18–23 (Rich Young Ruler) Connect Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected] Generations Be sure to visit our friends at Generations.org! They’ve built an incredible library of Christ-centered homeschool curriculum, books, and podcasts — all designed to help your family apply the Bible to every area of life. History, science, worldview, you name it — it all points back to Christ. Use the code CHORUS at checkout for 15% off your order.

Why does spiritism hold such a powerful grip on people — especially during times of grief, fear, and uncertainty? In this episode, Blake and Grayson continue their American Cults series by examining the appeal of Spiritism, why Scripture consistently forbids it, and how it distorts good, God-given desires for eternity, comfort, and knowledge. Through biblical teaching and pastoral reflection, they explore: Why humanity longs for life beyond death The dangers of seeking revelation without repentance Saul and the Witch of Endor (1 Samuel 28) How spiritism traps the grieving rather than healing them Why Christ alone defeats death and removes its fear Spiritism offers promises it can never keep. The Gospel offers resurrection, peace, and hope that does not fade. Connect Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected] Generations Be sure to visit our friends at Generations.org! They’ve built an incredible library of Christ-centered homeschool curriculum, books, and podcasts — all designed to help your family apply the Bible to every area of life. History, science, worldview, you name it — it all points back to Christ. Use the code CHORUS at checkout for 15% off your order.

In this episode of The Chorus in the Chaos, Jack and Blake dive into one of America’s most unusual and influential cult movements: the rise of spiritualism in the 19th century. Beginning with a biblical narrative—the chilling account of Saul and the Witch of Endor—the episode moves through the dramatic story of the Fox Sisters, the national craze for seances, and the cultural wounds left open by the Civil War. You’ll discover how spiritualism promised comfort in a time of uncertainty, why it grew so quickly, and even how magician Harry Houdini became its most vocal opponent. Blending historical storytelling, cultural analysis, and theological clarity, this episode shines a light on a movement that still shapes modern (evil) ideas about mediums, ghosts, and “communicating with the dead.” Connect Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected] Generations Be sure to visit our friends at Generations.org! They’ve built an incredible library of Christ-centered homeschool curriculum, books, and podcasts — all designed to help your family apply the Bible to every area of life. History, science, worldview, you name it — it all points back to Christ. Use the code CHORUS at checkout for 15% off your order.

In Part 2 of our Thanksgiving bonus series, Blake and Jack pick up the story with the Pilgrims themselves—the Separatist congregation from Scrooby who fled England, suffered betrayals, survived storms, endured heartbreak, and ultimately crossed the Atlantic in one of history’s most remarkable journeys of faith. In this episode, we trace their escape attempts from England, their difficult 11-year stay in Leiden, the economic and cultural pressures they faced, and the providential chain of events that drove them to sail for the New World, from the disastrous Speedwell, to the treacherous Mayflower crossing, to the first contacts with the Wampanoag, Squanto’s astonishing backstory, the devastating first winter, and finally the feast that would one day inspire Thanksgiving....including a totally true and not dramatized version of how Turkey got involved. If you want to understand Thanksgiving—not the simplified version you learned in elementary school, but the providential and theologically rich version—this episode is for you. Connect Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected] Generations Be sure to visit our friends at Generations.org! They’ve built an incredible library of Christ-centered homeschool curriculum, books, and podcasts — all designed to help your family apply the Bible to every area of life. History, science, worldview, you name it — it all points back to Christ. Use the code CHORUS at checkout for 15% off your order.

In this special two-part Thanksgiving bonus episode, Blake and Jack take listeners on a fast-moving, 30,000-foot flyover of the wild, chaotic, and faith-shaping events that led to the Pilgrims boarding the Mayflower and eventually celebrating what we call the First Thanksgiving. Before the Mayflower ever touched the shores of the New World, England endured a century of political turmoil, religious reform, royal power struggles, public executions, and theological awakening. From Henry VIII’s messy pursuit of an annulment, to Edward VI’s Protestant reforms, to the brutal burnings under Bloody Mary, to Elizabeth’s uneasy religious compromise, and finally to King James and his push for conformity—this episode explores the real forces that shaped the Puritans and the Separatists, and ultimately birthed the Pilgrim story. This episode aims to help you see Thanksgiving with fresh eyes and a deeper appreciation for the believers who risked everything to pursue biblical worship. Connect Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected] Generations Be sure to visit our friends at Generations.org! They’ve built an incredible library of Christ-centered homeschool curriculum, books, and podcasts — all designed to help your family apply the Bible to every area of life. History, science, worldview, you name it — it all points back to Christ. Use the code CHORUS at checkout for 15% off your order.

Summary Season 4 launches with a field guide to American cults: where they came from, how they function, and what sets them apart from orthodox Christianity. We lay out our two-episode rhythm for each movement (history + doctrine) and explain why this isn’t just academic—these are the folks knocking on your door and sitting in your break room. Highlights Walter Martin’s working definition of a cult The 1830–1890 surge in the Northeast and the “Burned-Over District” First vs. Second Great Awakening—and how Finney’s “new measures” influenced later errors Doctrinal markers: denial of the Trinity, diminished view of Christ, extra-biblical revelation Sociological markers: authoritarian leadership, information control, us-vs-them identity, behavioral rules, shunning, apocalyptic urgency Works/loyalty systems vs. the gospel of grace The real cost of leaving—and how Christians can care well Connect Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected] Generations Be sure to visit our friends at Generations.org! They’ve built an incredible library of Christ-centered homeschool curriculum, books, and podcasts — all designed to help your family apply the Bible to every area of life. History, science, worldview, you name it — it all points back to Christ. Use the code CHORUS at checkout for 15% off your order.

Steve Cobucci (vocalist/guitarist & key songwriter for Wolves at the Gate) joins Jack to unpack the story and theology behind the band’s concept album 'Wasteland'. We also talk touring, Charles Spurgeon, Horatius Bonar, and Steve names a “perfect song.” WATG (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/wolvesatthegate/?hl=en WATG (Tour info): https://www.wolvesatthegate.com/ WATG (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@UCrc9rgv9115f-Mbax2GtOwQ WATG (Spotify): https://open.spotify.com/artist/0Z88iXWc4YVhtu1eFtsGk6 WATG (Apple): https://music.apple.com/us/artist/wolves-at-the-gate/360832093 Did you know that Chorus in the Chaos listeners can get 5% off their entire order at Westminster Theological Bookstore? Just use the coupon code "CHORUS" when you check out The Chorus in the Chaos Info: Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected]

Did you know that Chorus in the Chaos listeners can get 5% off their entire order at Westminster Theological Bookstore? Just use the coupon code "CHORUS" when you check out In this short (almost 15-minute) biography episode of The Chorus in the Chaos, Jack looks at the remarkable life of The Lion of Princeton, Benjamin Breckinridge Warfield (1851–1921)—one of the great theologians of old Princeton and a towering figure in Reformed thought.

In this episode of The Chorus in the Chaos, Jack reflects on moments in life that divide time—events after which nothing is ever the same. From personal memories of 9/11 to the pivotal scene in Acts 10–11 where the gospel is extended to the Gentiles, we explore how God often works in ways we don’t expect. Through Peter’s vision, the criticism from the “circumcision party,” and the church’s ultimate celebration of grace, we see how the gospel tears down walls of division and fulfills God’s promises from Genesis to Revelation. Key Takeaways: Life-changing moments: both in history and in Scripture, God uses unexpected events to reshape our perspective. Peter’s example: in humility and patience, he trusted God’s work rather than fighting for his own reputation. Two responses to God’s grace: criticism and resistance (like Jonah and the circumcision party) or joyful celebration of mercy. The gospel reconciles: Jews and Gentiles, enemies and friends, all made one in Christ. Practical encouragement: When God works in ways we don’t understand, we’re called to stay calm, stay humble, and trust Him. Jack also offers a heartfelt gospel invitation: if you’ve never placed your trust in Christ, now is the time to turn from sin and find peace with God. 📖 Scripture focus: Acts 11:1–18 ✝️ Supporting texts: Genesis 18, Ephesians 2, Revelation 7

In this episode of The Chorus in the Chaos, Jack sits down with Greg De Blieck, hymn writer and leader of New Scottish Hymns, to explore the deep connection between music, theology, and worship. Greg shares his story of growing up in Scotland, his love for hymnody, and his passion for writing songs that communicate biblical truth with clarity and beauty. Together, Jack and Greg discuss: The power of music to shape culture, community, and faith The role of hymns in encouraging believers beyond Sunday worship Theological foundations for music as communication and communion The Reformers’ cautious yet profound view of music in the church Practical wisdom for pastors, elders, and worship leaders choosing songs for corporate worship The dangers of Christian celebrity culture and why the local church must remain central From folk influences in Scottish hymnody to reflections on Tolkien, Lewis, and Isaac Watts, this episode offers a rich and thoughtful conversation about why music matters—and how it can point us more fully to Christ. 👉 Check out New Scottish Hymns, download their free app, and listen to their music on YouTube, Spotify, and more.

In this special episode of The Chorus in the Chaos, Jack, Grayson, and Blake reflect on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk and what it means for Kirk's legacy and Christians today. We discuss: Charlie Kirk’s life, faith, and legacy as the founder of Turning Point Why his murder feels like a pivotal cultural and spiritual moment. The clash of worldviews is revealed in the nation’s response. How Kirk’s bold witness to the gospel challenges us to live faithfully. What Christians should do now—locally, politically, and spiritually. This is more than politics. It’s about worldview, courage, and the cost of discipleship. Listen in for biblical reflection, cultural analysis, and a call to bold gospel proclamation in a time of growing hostility. The Chorus in the Chaos Info: Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected]

In our Season 3 finale, we tackle the 10th Commandment—coveting—why Scripture treats it as a heart-level idol factory and the “mother sin” that births so many others. We trace coveting from desire to destruction (think: Gollum), show how it undermines love for God and neighbor, and conclude with practical, Gospel-rooted disciplines for cultivating contentment. The Chorus in the Chaos Info: Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes) Email: [email protected]

In this special episode, Grayson Gilbert reflects on the life and legacy of John MacArthur, who passed away recently. He shares personal anecdotes about MacArthur's influence on his own faith journey, highlighting the importance of faithful teaching and the impact of spiritual mentors. Grayson emphasizes the need for enduring faith and the role of ordinary individuals in God's work, ultimately pointing to the hope found in Christ and the legacy of faithful servants in the church. The Chorus in the Chaos Info: Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The Chorus in the Chaos, Blake and Jack tackle the Ninth Commandment: “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.” But as they quickly uncover, this commandment isn’t just about lying—it’s about gossip, slander, exaggeration, and the thousand subtle ways we undermine truth in daily life. Jack opens with a vivid personal illustration of a leaky ceiling and how unchecked deception functions like a drip—slowly saturating and eventually destroying. The conversation moves through scripture, theology (featuring insights from Kevin DeYoung and Thomas Watson), and practical application with the Heidelberg Catechism guiding the way. The Chorus in the Chaos Info: Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected]

In this unscripted “After Hours” roundtable, The Chorus in the Chaos crew dives into two very different—but oddly connected—topics: nicotine addiction and artificial intelligence. What starts with a satirical review of a dramatic Christianity Today article about ZYN pouches spirals into serious (and hilarious) discussions on mastery, sanctification, the creeping perils of AI, and the church's responsibility

What do a jaded weatherman and a bloodthirsty Pharisee have in common? In this episode, Jack explores the radically different—but equally transforming—power of grace in the lives of Phil Connors (Groundhog Day) and the apostle Paul. Using Paul’s conversion in Acts 9 as a springboard, this solo episode highlights the stunning reality of salvation by sovereign grace. Jack walks through the biblical text, reflects on Paul’s post-conversion transformation, shares the gripping story of a Japanese death row inmate turned Christian, and reminds listeners: no one is too far gone. If you’ve ever doubted the power of the gospel to change a life—this episode is for you. For a limited time, The Chorus in the Chaos listeners get 10% off their first purchase at Reformation Heritage Books! Use the coupon code "CHORUS". While there, don't forget to check out Joel Beeke's new book 'How To Lead Your Family' The Chorus in the Chaos Info: Website & Blog: www.chorusinthechaos.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chorusinthec... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chorus_in_the_chaos/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Chorusnthechaos Intro/Outro Music (by our good friend Nick Illes): https://open.spotify.com/artist/7tnsQ... Email: [email protected]