The Good Citizen Podcast

In Acts 23, Paul stares down the Jewish Sanhedrin, reprimands and then apologizes to the High Priest, calls a question that redirects the energy of the Council to internal division while focusing on the resurrection, and earns an all-expense-paid trip to the Mediterranean seashore (Caesarea) due to a plot on his life. In all this, Paul shows his mastery of cultural, religious, and even political realities; his dedication to the gospel of Christ; and his reliance on divine providence to carry him safely from Jerusalem to his ultimate destination: Rome. Big Idea: The early church carried the gospel throughout the known world in approximately 30 years and transformed an empire in 3 centuries. Now the church seems intimidated, uncertain amidst swift cultural changes. So, what did the early Christians, commanded by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, do that we are not doing? Here are their Acts, and may they inspire our own. Outline: The Great Question The Hungry Forty Unlikely Bodyguards Key Takeaways: Review of the political, cultural, and religious realities and how Paul navigated them. Why we should honor governing officials for their position, even if we disagree with them personally. The consistent theme of Christ’s encouragement to Paul–and us. Why we should trust divine providence in our lives and ministries. The post #376 Acts 23 first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

Last week, we worked through some generational distinctives and effective methods for equipping members of Gen Z and Gen Alpha to share and live out their faith. This week, we focus in on the area of Christian citizenship and hear from a member of Gen Z engaged in public life. In this episode, guest Birjan Crispin shares his remarkable story that began in a Bulgarian orphanage, how he became a follower of Jesus, and how God led him to impact the public square. We also discuss the spiritual condition of Gen Z, how Gen Z thinks about the church and its role in public life, and how ministries can effectively disciple the next generation in the area of Christian citizenship. Birjan Crispin is the Deputy Director of The Good Citizen Project, a Hope College graduate (’20) – B.A. Business & Political Science, a former legislative aide with the Indiana House Republican Caucus, graduate of the Heritage Foundation’s Leadership Fellowship Academy, the Leadership Institute’s Young Leaders Program, and Indiana Family Institute’s Hoosier Leadership Series Class of 2024. He is also a speaker and author.The post #375 Gen Z, Gen Alpha, and Christian Citizenship with Birjan Crispin first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

What are the obstacles to and most effective methods for equipping members of Gen Z and Gen Alpha to share and live out their faith? In this episode, we explore some generational distinctives and the challenges and opportunities created by recent changes in culture and technology. Then, we focus on practical ways to teach and model Christianity so that members of these generations develop a resilient, active faith in quickly changing times.The post #374 How to Engage Gen Z and Gen Alpha first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

In Acts 22, Paul quieted a mob intent on killing him just minutes before, recounted his conversion and calling, and put his Roman citizenship to work to further his ministry. Paul truly became all things to all men (I Cor. 9:22), and Acts 22 is a masterclass on how to navigate cultural differences and even use legal protections to promote the gospel. Big Idea: The early church carried the gospel throughout the known world in approximately 30 years and transformed an empire in 3 centuries. Now the church seems intimidated, uncertain amidst swift cultural changes. So, what did the early Christians, commanded by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, do that we are not doing? Here are their Acts, and may they inspire our own. Key Takeaways: Paul’s recounting of his conversion and and Christ’s appearance to him in the temple (not recounted in Acts 9). How Paul used his testimony as a defense of the gospel. How God led the Apostle Paul in ministry. God’s method of using us to raise up people and fulfill the Great Commission. The basics of Roman civitas or citizenship and how Paul put that citizenship to work. The post #373 Acts 22 first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

Religious freedom is a cherished American principle and a key distinctive of ours on the world stage. But, can we concisely and accurately define it? And what Biblical principles support this free exercise of religion? Further, what is the latest in religious liberty cases? In this episode, I walk through the Biblical origin of this principle, the fascinating history of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, the current state of religious freedom, and how and why we should champion this principle in our zip code and for the next generation. Key takeaways: Working definition: the right to believe and live out one’s deeply held convictions without fear of coercion or mistreatment by the government. Pastor John Leland: “…Government should protect every man in thinking and speaking freely, and see that one does not abuse another. The liberty I contend for is more than toleration. The very idea of toleration is despicable; it supposes that some have a pre-eminence above the rest to grant indulgence, whereas all should be equally free, Jews, Turks [Muslims], Pagans and Christians.” Current developments in religious liberty cases. The 2025 Report of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom. A strategy for all Christians to champion religious freedom for the next generation. The best way to defend religious freedom is to use it. The post #372 Religious Liberty: The Cornerstone of a Free Society first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

Christian schools are often on the front lines of cultural and legal developments, and the legal standards that impact these institutions generally impact churches and homeschooling as well. In this episode, I review recent recent legal and cultural developments and explain proactive steps Christian schools can take to build and maintain strong legal protections. Key Legal Issues: Legal Foundation Employment Admissions and Discipline Accreditation and Tax Exemption The Christian School and Immigration Disclaimer: This presentation is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is given with the understanding that the presenter is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional service. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.The post #371 Legal Challenges in Christian Education first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

2025 promises to be a year of significant social and political change that will impact American faith and culture. The Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University, led by Dr. George Barna, recently reviewed its vault of data and compiled several key trends that church leaders and other committed Christians should be aware of as they impact their communities in 2025. In this interview, Dr. Adam Rasmussen, a Fellow at the Cultural Research Center, walks through these trends and explores how ministries can effectively navigate them in 2025. Dr. Adam Rasmussen guides students to flourish under the Lordship of Christ in all of life as they make important connections between faith, reason, and culture. In his courses, students learn how to develop their own moral philosophy, so they are inspired to implement significant change in their sphere of influence. They are encouraged to “transform culture with truth”. Adam brings 25 years of experience in Christian education to his role at Arizona Christian University where he joyfully serves as the Associate Professor of Humanities and a Fellow at the Cultural Research Center. Likely Religious Trends: Reshaping God to our Liking The Syncretism Train Keeps Rolling Discipleship Drops off the Radar Organized Christianity Takes a Hit Signs of Backbone Likely Cultural Trends: Rethinking College Education Mental Health Issues Escalate Reinventing the Senior Life Altering the Political Conversation Public Schools Will Suffer Reimagining the Family Reconfiguring the Media Universe Link to the full report.The post #370 Key Trends that Will Impact Faith and Culture in 2025 with Dr. Adam Rasmussen first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

Parents, not the state, have the responsibility to raise their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Eph. 6:4). And the Supreme Court has recognized parental rights as the oldest of the “fundamental liberty interests.” Troxel v. Granville. Despite this status as a fundamental right, parental rights have often been disregarded in recent years; and Christian organizations are pushing back to protect parents. Here is the latest on those efforts in Indiana and how you can impact the issue of parental rights in your state. Links: Former episode with Craig Deroche – Highly Functional: A Collision of Addiction, Justice, and Grace. Link to the video of this interview on the Family Police Alliance YouTube channel. Link to Family Policy Alliance and Craig’s bio. The post #369 The Latest on Protecting Parental Rights with Craig Deroche first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

How one views the end of the world (often referred to as eschatology) profoundly impacts the here and now. In this episode, I walk through four primary Christian views of the end of the world and how these views can impact our citizenship in the present. Premillenialism Postmillenialism Amillenialism Preterism Key Takeaways: The troubling story of the Munster rebellion. An explanation of the basics and timelines of these views. The remarkable resource that is Revelation 21-22. The post #368 How Views on the End Times Impact Christian Citizenship first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

Due to a quickly changing culture, many American Christians are facing increasing tensions between their faith and legal requirements at school and work, in the public square, and even in our homes and ministries. In my experience, analyzing a question and developing a plan or procedure prior to a crisis is the best approach. So, according to Scripture, is it appropriate for a Christian to practice civil disobedience? If so, what are the practical steps for working through a conflict between Biblical commands and government mandates and even engaging in civil disobedience? Here are some thoughts on when and how to say a “holy no.” Key Principles Our default position is submission. Obedience to God may mean disobedience to government. Disobey in the right way. Key Steps: Review Scripture and determine if the law or mandate clearly violates the text of Scripture or a careful application of Biblical principles. (If the answer to Step 1 is yes) Request an accommodation for your beliefs through meetings, public statements, and even litigation. (If Step 2 fails) Respectfully disobey with a goal of accommodation or change. Takeaways: “I don’t like it” is insufficient for civil disobedience. Biblical and historical examples of Christian civil disobedience. Reflections on the church’s response to the 2020 COVID lockdowns. The Nuremberg trials as a reminder of the importance of civil disobedience and a higher law. For American Christians, the refusal to follow an arguably unconstitutional law can be an appeal to a higher law. When Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on a Montgomery bus, she did so in violation of a local ordinance but in furtherance of constitutional rights. That said, you the person does not equal we the people (explained further in the episode). How these Biblical principles push back on anarchy and totalitarianism. The post #368 A Holy No: The Christian and Civil Disobedience [Revisited] first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

How did the Apostle Paul discern God’s will and push forward despite opposition? And did the Apostle Paul go against the leading of the Holy Spirit? How did the early church display such amazing forgiveness of past wrongs and navigate deep difference? And how did Paul persist in the face of certain imprisonment and even death? All of that and more in Acts Chapter 21. Big Idea for the Series: The early church carried the gospel throughout the known world in approximately 30 years and transformed an empire in 3 centuries. Now the church seems intimidated, uncertain amidst swift cultural changes. So, what did the early Christians, commanded by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, do that we are not doing? Here are their Acts, and may they inspire our own. Outline: Paul’s GPS Jerusalem! The Riot! Key Takeaways: How the Apostle Paul interpreted God’s will for his life and how he responded to clear warnings of imprisonment at Jerusalem. Paul’s dual role and how he used his citizenship and knowledge of various cultures to further the gospel. The heartbreaking formal and final rejection of the Jewish leaders and the mob at the temple. Calling, not comfort, is our compass. The post #367 Acts 21 first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

In contrast to our increasingly plural (many religions and ideologies) society’s claim that all roads lead to Heaven, Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life…” (John 14:6). Many insist that this exclusive claim about truth and salvation is prideful and leads to mistreatment of others in a diverse society. But that is incorrect, as shown by Scripture and a deeper review of the arguments concerning ultimate truth and human societies. Here is why Christ’s exclusive claim is exactly what we and our culture need right now. Outline: 1. Everyone makes exclusive claims. 2. Exclusive claims cannot all be true. 3. Christ’s exclusive claim is exactly what we need. Key Takeaways: America’s favorite color. Our troubling inability to condemn evil. The actual meaning of coexist bumper stickers. We need ultimate moral values, i.e. murder is wrong. We also need a check on the pride and lust for power in the human heart. Why the cross provides both and is exactly what our society needs right now. For more on this topic, consider Josh’s book Persuasion Points: Practical Responses to Culture’s Toughest Questions. The post #366 Why Christ’s Exclusive Claim is Exactly What Our Society Needs Right Now [Encore] first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

Conflict is a part of life and especially church life. But, in my experience as a former pastor’s kid, a church leader and an attorney, Christians are spectacularly bad at handling conflict. If we are going to significantly impact our communities, we will have to first overcome the obstacle of unhealthy church conflict. Stated differently, conflict is inevitable; and healthy conflict is invaluable. So, how should we go about it. Should we declare an end to all conflict? No. The goal is not to eradicate conflict. Rather, the goal is to have healthy conflict–to have good fights that are constructive rather than destructive. But how? Here are four thoughts about conflict: Conflict is a problem Conflict isn’t the problem Conflict can become constructive Conflict resolution should be a part of the Church’s public witness Here are the four steps to having good fights Identify the source and not just the symptom of the conflict. Engage the conflict with grace and strength. Resolve the conflict with the ultimate goal of renewed unity and outward focus Give people bigger problems! The conflict resolution tool I am most familiar with is the broom–for sweeping issues under the rug. No more! It’s time to have good fights! What are your thoughts on having good fights? Do you have specific examples of how you or your church has successfully navigating a contentious issue or a season of conflict? Let us know by commenting or sending us an email at [email protected] post #365 How to Have Good Fights first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

A number of people have fallen asleep during my preaching; and, in fact, it may be a great cure for insomnia. But I can definitely say that noone has died during one of my sermons. Not so the Apostle Paul. In Acts 20, Paul concludes his third missionary journey by returning to Macedonia and Greece, preaching in Troas and raising Eutychus from the dead, and giving a profound and moving farewell to the Elders at the church in Ephesus. There is much to learn here about the early church’s hunger for the Scriptures, Paul’s manner of ministry, and his focus on leaving a gospel legacy in the churches he planted. Big Idea for the Series: The early church carried the gospel throughout the known world in approximately 30 years and transformed an empire in 3 centuries. Now the church seems intimidated, uncertain amidst swift cultural changes. So, what did the early Christians, commanded by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, do that we are not doing? Here are their Acts, and may they inspire our own. Outline: The Gospel Group Project A Deadly Sermon A Tearful Farewell Lessons/Takeaways: Find fellowship. Feed your soul. Fix your following. How will you write your farewell? The post #364 Acts 20 first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

The Texas Capitol is 14.64 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol because, well, of course it is. And this is one more piece of evidence that (say it with me) everything is bigger in Texas. I recently attended a Pastors’ Day at the Texas statehouse organized by the Church Ambassador Network of Texas, and I was blessed to see all that God is doing in the Lone Star State. In this episode, Bryan English (Executive Director of CAN in Texas) explains his unique call into ministry, explores the challenges and opportunities in Texas, and gives the highlights and lessons from recent ministry successes that can be applied in your city and state. Bryan English brings a diverse ministry background to his role as Executive Director of the Church Ambassador Network of Texas that includes pastoral ministry, non-profit work, and campaign experience. In addition to serving as a pastor, Bryan was previously on staff with the Iowa Family Policy Center (now the Family Leader,) worked as a Congressional staffer, and has led or worked on local, state, and federal campaigns. Bryan and his wife live in Sugar Land, TX. They are the parents of three adult sons and a daughter-in-law. Key Takeaways/Links: More information about the Church Ambassador Network of Texas. Videos and photos from the recent Pastors’ Day at the Texas statehouse. Link to the team and a graphic showing the sheer scale of covering the entire state. Bio page for Texas Chief Justice Blackrock. Link to Texas Health and Human Services. The post #363 Public Square Ministry in Texas with Bryan English first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

Over the last week, I have received a number of questions about the church’s role concerning immigration and how to love and serve our neighbors well while also complying with the law. More specifically, a number of churches have reported that significant numbers of immigrants (even those with legal status such as asylum or refugee status) are not coming to church out of fear or concern about changing standards. And, I have received questions about how to respond if ICE agents show up to a church or Christian school. In this episode, I cover these questions and review Biblical and legal standards. Key points concerning the church and immigration: Scripture speaks clearly but in tension. U.S. immigration laws are complex, inconsistently enforced, and in desperate need of reform. Thoughts on how to follow the law and love and serve your immigrant neighbors well right now. The post #362 The Church, Immigration, Ordered Loves, and ICE Raids first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

There has been much talk lately about a new American Golden Age, and I certainly pray for the peace and prosperity of the United States and hope her best days are ahead of her (Jer. 29). Though a Golden Age is not guaranteed, I am confident that 2025 is a golden opportunity to redouble our efforts to engage government and create meaningful reforms that honor God and our good for our neighbors. Here are four reasons why: Creation Order is creating change. States are driving the change in status quo. Executive Orders and even Congress will not reorder culture. The Church has an open door to speak up and serve well. Key Takeaways and links: Link to Executive Order: “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government.” Link to Executive Order: “Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation.” Link to Executive Order: “Enforcing the Hyde Amendment.” Link to Executive Order: “Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship.” The post #361 A Golden Opportunity: 4 Reasons We Should Redouble our Efforts to Renew America Right Now first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

More than half of teenagers report seeing online pornography before the age of thirteen, and 73% percent of teens report exposure to pornography. The harms of pornography are well documented, and seventeen U.S states have declared pornography a public health crisis. Given the recent oral arguments in FSC v. Paxton, what can Christians do about protecting the innocence of children online? In this episode, I review the state of the law concerning the intersection of pornography and free speech with Joseph Kohm and explore what church leaders and other committed Christians can do to impact this public health crisis. Joseph Kohm III, Esq. is Director of Public Policy at Family Policy Alliance (FPA), where he leads FPA’s policy strategy, provides policy and legislative expertise, and drafts and advocates for pro-family legislation at the state and federal levels to release Biblical citizenship. Joseph is a U.S. Army veteran of the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) and a graduate of Regent University School of Law. He is licensed to practice law in Washington, D.C. and the State of New York. Joseph’s legal experiences are in commander-directed Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) investigations within the armed forces as well as anti-trafficking in persons (human trafficking) legal efforts, both in foreign and domestic jurisdictions and states. He worked as a Regent Law Center for Global Justice intern at the Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) outside of Jakarta, Indonesia, where he operated alongside Indonesian and other Southeast Asian lawyers and law students to combat the spread of illegal trafficking in persons. Key Takeaways: Recent study about pornography use among teenagers. Information about and the briefing in FSC v. Paxton. Link to Exodus Cry, a ministry combating sexual exploitation. FPA Podcast episodes on God’s design for sex and marriage, the harms of online pornography, and the connections between pornography and sexual assault. A brief review of the legal efforts to protect kids from pornography. Takeaways from the oral arguments in FSC v. Paxton last week and what church leaders and committed Christians can do to promote age verification in their state and at the federal level. FPA’s School Board Academy. FPA’s Tech Ready Family course. States with age verification laws: The post #360 How You Can Help Protect Kids from Porn with Joseph Kohm first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

If Christians parents do not teach and model a Biblical worldview to their children early and often, then culture will disciple them for us. We all recognize that swiftly changing culture is so pervasive and persistent that it finds its way past the protective walls of our homes, schools, and churches. So, how do we proactively raise our children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord? In their recent book What Do I Say When, Andrew and Christian Walker draw on their experiences as (respectively) Christian ethicist and teacher and as parents to provide a practical guide for busy parents raising kids in the midst of cultural chaos. Dr. Walker serves as Associate Dean in the School of Theology, and Associate Professor of Christian Ethics and Public Theology. He is also the Director of the Carl F. H. Henry Institute for Evangelical Engagement. Additionally, he is a fellow in Christian Political Thought at the Ethics and Public Policy Center and serves as the Managing Editor of WORLD Opinions. Walker joined the faculty of Southern Seminary in 2019. His previous appointment was Senior Fellow in Christian Ethics at the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission. He is married to Christian, and they have three children. He is a member of Highview Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. Key Takeaways: A discussion about key cultural issues such as sexuality, political involvement, human dignity, and abortion and how and when to address with children in an age-appropriate way. Dr. Walker’s book on natural law mentioned in the episode: Faithful Reason: Natural Law Ethics for God’s Glory and Our Good. A discussion of the different floors/stage of development and how to address cultural issues in each one. Opportunities and challenges for Christian citizens in the Trump administration. Follow Dr. Walker on X: @andrewtwalk. Link to Bully Pulpit Podcast. The post #359 What Do I Say When …? A Parent’s Guide to Navigating Cultural Chaos for Children and Teens with Andrew Walker first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

I am praying that this year, 2025, is one of renewal for the American experiment. This year is a critical opportunity to push back on unbiblical ideas and government overreach, shore up constitutional protections for parents and ministries, and partner with government officials for the common good. If we are to fully seize this opportunity, though, it is important to understand how the United States arrived at this moral and cultural crisis and how to respond. In this episode focused on his recent book, Stumbling toward Utopia, author Tim Goeglein looks at the philosophies and policies that led to the societal earthquake of the1960s and how those philosophies and policies have led to the cataclysm America faces today. He offers a blueprint for how we can reject those philosophies and policies by returning to the core values upon which America was built: personal responsibility, respect for life, sexual restraint, and patriotism. Tim Goeglein is Vice President of External and Government Relations for Focus on the Family. Formerly, he served as a special assistant to President George W. Bush and as a deputy director of the White House Office of Public Liaison. He was the President’s principal outreach contact for conservative and faith-based groups. Tim’s extensive resumé includes serving as a senior fellow at The Heritage Foundation and as a communications director for U.S. Senator Dan Coats of Indiana and Gary Bauer at the Campaign for Working Families. Tim has authored a memoir, The Man in the Middle: Faith and Politics in the George W. Bush Era, and his latest book is titled American Restoration. He and his wife, Jenny, have two sons.The post #358 Stumbling Toward Utopia: How the 1960s Turned Into a National Nightmare and How We Can Revive the American Dream with Tim Goeglein first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

In Christmas sermons, we often focus on the wise men, Mary, the Shepherds, and the angels. But there is another, silent player in the Christmas story that is often overlooked. Here is the perspective of Joseph and how he, in turn, points to the glory and majesty of Christ’s birth. Outline: The Royal Line A Match Made in Heaven A Baby Refugee A Warrior Prince Key Takeaways: A review of Jewish history during the silent period and what a Jewish teenager in the line of David may have experienced. A review of Jewish marriage customs; and Joseph’s remarkable, immediate obedience. The suggestion from history about the early death of Joseph. Joseph’s often overlooked role in the God’s grand story of redemption. Key lessons on identity, obedience, and significance. To David, God entrusted a kingdom. To Joseph, God entrusted the king. Perhaps Mary fell asleep from the utter exhaustion of childbirth, and Joseph picked up Jesus and held him up to the starlight. David desired to build the temple so the priest’s could stand in God’s presence, but Joseph held God in his hands. This son of David no longer had to look back to the glory of Israel now crumbling and gone–a refugee from the evil empire of Rome, powerless to even protest a forced census, and soon to flee to Egypt with his young family. He now held the King of the nations. Perhaps Jesus reached up with his tiny hand and grabbed one of Joseph’s calloused fingers. And when Joseph looked into his eyes, for just a moment, he saw something not just innocent but awesome, even terrifying. He saw in those eyes the fire of eternity and the wisdom of the ages, he felt in that hand the power that created the universe, in his presence the purity of a holy God, the majesty of a cosmic King that would rule forever. Perhaps he realized that it was not he, as adoptive father, that held his child’s hard; rather, it was Jesus, as everlasting Father, that was holding his. And just for a moment perhaps the noise of the animals faded away, the weight of responsibility fell of, and he did the only thing one could do–he worshipped. This quiet carpenter knew His King and Savior had come. The post #357 God’s Guardian: The Story of Joseph first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

Wherever the Way or the gospel goes, it has kingdom-shaking implications. Pagan practices go bankrupt, power and allegiance are shaken, and riots often break out. This is no tame, keep-it-to-myself movement. In previous chapters, the power of the Jesus has challenged the power of Rome, overcome superstition, and perplexed the philosophers. Now, in Acts 19, it dethrones an ancient diety named Diana and triumphs in a religious center; and Roman rule actually assists and protects Paul as he ministers there for several years. Big Idea: The early church carried the gospel throughout the known world in approximately 30 years and transformed an empire in 3 centuries. Now the church seems intimidated, uncertain amidst swift cultural changes. So, what did the early Christians, commanded by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, do that we are not doing? Here are their Acts, and may they inspire our own. Outline: Holy Handkerchiefs! Unimpressed Demons Diana Dethroned Key Takeaways: The remarkable story of healing through Paul’s handkerchiefs. A terrifying tale of Jeiwsh exorcists that more than met their match. The magnificence of the temple of Diana/Artemis, and the extent of its reach in the Roman world. The fact that Paul calls the Asiarchs his friend (vs. 31) and the connection to I Timothy 2:1-2. The power of the Word, and the faithful ministry of Paul and other believers. The post #356 Acts 19 first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

The impact of fatherlessness in our society is staggering. For example, according to the Department for Health and Human Services, 85% of youth in prison or some form of incarceration grew up in a fatherless home. This is not meant to disparage the heroic efforts of single moms or downplay the success of many children that are growing up or grew up in a home without a dad. But, if we are to successfully reverse the breakdown of the family and impact a host of societal ills, this issue of fatherlessness stands out as a critical and often overlooked root cause. In this episode, I discuss the fatherless epidemic and how to respond with Sean Teis. He has a powerful personal testimony and leads God is My Dad, a ministry dedicated to serving fatherless families and equipping churches to do the same. Key Takeaways: The heartbreaking and eye-opening statistics related to the effects of fatherlessness. The fact that Scripture often refers to the “fatherless” as (Jer.5:28; James 1:27) A link to the website and tools referenced in the interview. A policy brief setting out stats and trends concerning fatherlessness. How you and your church can help. The post #355 The Fatherless Epidemic and How to Respond with Sean Teis first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

I have been sounding the alarm for some time about a simple but frightening legal strategy– interpreting the definition of child abuse or neglect to include Christian parents raising a child consistent with that child’s sex as male or female. In other words, if Christian parents do not “affirm” a child’s transgender ideology, the full weight of the juvenile courts and the state child welfare agency can be brought to bear. This can include removal of that child from the parents’ home and even a court order barring those parents from speaking to their own child about sex. For example, consider the Cox case out of Indiana. This legal standard is now codified in states such as California, Washington, and Minnesota (see the briefing in the Cox case), and Minnesota has passed a “Trans Refuge” law that allows the state to take custody of child (against the parents’ wishes) if that child is in the state for “gender-affirming care.” In this episode, I walk through this growing assault on parental rights and how to respond with Laura Bryant Hanford, a contributing editor to the Federalist and a key advocate for parental rights. Key takeaways: The right and responsibility of parents—not the state—to raise their children according to their beliefs is a Biblical, pre-political principle that must be protected in state and federal law. Laura’s important contribution to the International Religious Freedom Act, as detailed in this article. The story behind Sage’s law and another heart-breaking parental rights violation out of Virginia. The sermon by David Platt she mentions in the interview. What Christian parents and churches can do to respond to this growing assault. The latest on the certification process for Child Advocacy Centers and the lack of evidentiary support behind medical treatment that is contrary to a child’s sex. Model state legislation for protecting parental rights – the Defining Abuse Child Protection Act. The post #354 The Growing Assault on Parental Rights with Laura Bryant Hanford first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

This Thanksgiving, I am grateful for ministries like the Muncie Mission that are strategically transforming their zip codes through Gospel ministry, innovation, and hard work. The mission has been restoring dignity and hope to people in crisis since the Great Depression; and, under the leadership of Frank Baldwin, it has expanded its impact through a partnership with the city of Muncie, Indiana. Incredibly, since 2016, the Mission’s long-term addiction recovery program has experienced a 98% success rate; and it is now assisting with medical needs, counseling, and even transitional and permanent housing. In this episode, Frank tells the story of Muncie Mission’s remarkable efforts and explains how you and your church can strategically impact your zip code. Key Takeaways: The history of Muncie Mission. How the Mission studied addiction and developed remarkably successful programs. The mission’s partnership with local governing officials. The Mission’s comprehensive treatment and ongoing support strategy that remains firmly rooted in transformation through relationship with Christ. The decision to purchase abandoned or blighted properties to create needed transitional housing. A recent housing project in partnership with other community organizations. Lessons for you and your church. The post #353 How to Change Your Zip Code with Frank Baldwin first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

In Acts 18, Paul ministers in the Las Vegas of ancient Greece, struggles with and overcomes fear (what, the Apostle Paul experienced fear?), finds ministry partners in Priscilla and Aquila, and launches into his third missionary journey. This chapter shows that every place and every person can be redeemed, that we often fight fear and overwhelm the wrong way, and that we need each other in the work of ministry. Here’s that sermon. Big Idea: The early church carried the gospel throughout the known world in approximately 30 years and transformed an empire in 3 centuries. Now the church seems intimidated, uncertain amidst swift cultural changes. So, what did the early Christians, commanded by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, do that we are not doing? Here are their Acts, and may they inspire our own. Outline: What Happens in Corinth A Spiritual Antidepressant A Mysterious Mistrial The Third Journey Key Takeaways: A brief history of ancient Corinth. The ministry of Priscilla and Aquila, and Paul as a tentmaker. The startling fact that Paul was afraid and tired, and how Christ encouraged him. How God, once again, uses Roman officials to further the kingdom of God. The appearance of Apollos, and an example of Christian discipleship we should follow. The post #352 Acts 18 first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

What are the key lessons from the 2024 elections, and what’s next for Christian citizens? Here are three key takeaways from last week: A Seismic Win A Serious Setback A Sobering Responsibility Key Takeaways: How the 2024 election exposed false narratives about demography as destiny and the acceptance of transgender ideology. How people of faith voted, and the trend of churches speaking out on moral issues this election season. Serious setbacks on the life issue, the Biblical definition of marriage, and school choice. Some key policy issues to watch for in the new administration. The Christian Post article – Why America needs its pastors right now The post #351 Reflections on the 2024 Election and What’s Next for Christian Citizens first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

Today marks the 60th time Americans have gone to the polls to elect a president. The stakes and emotions are high; and, as I discussed at length in the episode last week entitled Jethro’s Voting Guide – 2024 Edition, Christians should engage their role as citizen and vote according to Biblical principles to promote the created order. Why? Because this will lead to flourishing for us and our neighbors. Much is on the line today, and here are four important reminders for Christian citizens as we experience election day and process the results: This election is very important. This election isn’t ultimate (and this eternal perspective can help us process and remain engaged no matter the outcome). This isn’t the last election (and we need to think long-term). So, go vote and pray. The post #350 4 Reminders for Election Day first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.