The Holy Post

 A whites-only community has launched in Arkansas under the legal guise of a “private membership association.” The founders claim it’s about preserving culture, but Skye and Phil aren’t buying it. Then, Brent Leatherwood, head of the Southern Baptist Convention’s public policy arm, has resigned after years of pressure from hardline conservatives. What does his departure reveal about the denomination’s political realignment? And, this week’s guest is Brandon O’Brien, author of The Strategically Small Church. As American Christianity grapples with shrinking attendance and fading influence, O’Brien offers a compelling vision for why small congregations might be not just inevitable, but essential. Also Phil learns way too much about penguin poop.   Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/135810167/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:30 - Theme Song   3:50 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout.   4:45 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/HOLYPOST to receive 50% off your first order   6:15 - Penguin Poop Saves the World?   15:50 - Whites-Only Community in Arkansas?   28:47 - SBC Commission President Steps Down!   43:48 - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 25% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST   44:55 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   46:05 - Sponsor - Church at the Crossroads - How should churches respond to the crisis in Gaza? Join a conference to break the silence. Go to https://www.churchatthecrossroads.com and use code HOLYPOST for 20% off!   47:21 - Interview   51:09 - Appetite for Small Churches?   59:00 - Beholden to Budget   1:09:15 - Unanxious   1:20:46 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: All White Community in Arkansas: https://news.sky.com/story/inside-the-whites-only-settlement-in-arkansas-the-group-building-a-fortress-for-the-white-race-13399875   Brent Leatherwood Steps Down:  https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/07/erlc-brent-leatherwood-resign-sbc-southern-baptist-politics/   Other Resources: The Strategically Small Church: Intimate, Authentic, and Effective by Brandon J. O’Brien: https://a.co/d/fgdjXcQ   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

CBS has cancelled the top-rated late-night talk show. Was it really a financial decision, or was it done to get the Trump administration to approve a corporate merger? And will Stephen Colbert now come on the Holy Post? Horrific images of starvation are coming out of Gaza as pressure builds on the Israeli government to end the war, but when does pro-Palestinian activism cross the line into antisemitism? Historian Molly Worthen’s new book, “Spellbound,” explains how charismatic political and religious movements have shaped America, and why they depend more on a compelling story than a persuasive leader. Also this week— Phil is back from his European vacation with stories of schnitzel and chicken dancing.   Holy Post Plus: Bonus Interview with Molly Worthen: https://www.patreon.com/posts/135231773/   Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/135245929/   0:00 - Show Starts   2:30 - Theme Song   2:50 - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/holypost   3:55 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 25% off sitewide for our listeners! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/holypost   5:04 - Phil’s Chicken Dance Adventure   15:05 - Colbert Cancelled?   24:21 - Antisemitism and Protesting Israel   42:43 - Sponsor - Poncho - If you’ve been looking for the perfect shirt—something breathable, fits great, feels even better, and stands out in a good way—give Poncho a try. Get $10 off your first order by using this link: https://www.ponchooutdoors.com/holypost   44:23 - Interview   47:50 - Building vs Destroying Institutions   58:56 - What Charismatic Movements Succeed?   1:09:45 - Charismatic Leader vs Charismatic Story   1:16:00 - Secular yet Spiritual   1:23:19 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Holding Israel accountable isn’t antisemtic—harming Jews is: https://religionnews.com/2025/07/16/holding-israel-accountable-isnt-antisemitic-harming-jews-is/   Other Resources: Spellboard: How Charisma Shaped American History from the Puritans to Donald Trump: https://a.co/d/4IWVyNX   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

Why is our society so fractured and angry? David Brooks’ recent article draws from the work of moral philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre to explain how we got here, but what is the solution? With the growth of A.I., some Christians think technology may be how God redeems humanity and gives us eternal life. But is this still Christianity or a strange new Silicon Valley heresy? Kaitlyn talks to Daniel Lee Hill about his latest book, “Bearing Witness: What the Church Can Learn from Early Abolitionists.” Also this week—dolphins learn to puff the magic fish.   Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/134724718/ 0:00 - Show Starts   2:05 - Theme Song   2:27  - Sponsor - World Relief - Join The Path as a monthly partner with World Relief! https://www.worldrelief.org/   3:30 - Sponsor - Our Place - Go to https://www.fromourplace.com and use code HOLYPOST to get 10% off site wide on beautiful cookware!   4:55 - Dolphins High Off Pufferfish Toxins   10:15 - David Brooks on Moral Philosophy   36:36 - Transhuminist Christians   52:20 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   53:20 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout.   54:16 - Interview   56:12 - Why Write Bearing Witness?   1:03:40 - What Do We Learn from Abolitionists?   1:19:23 - Communal History in the Church   1:29:46 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Dolphins Doing Drugs: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/dolphins-seem-to-use-toxic-pufferfish-to-get-high-180948219/   David Brooks Article on Moral Philosophy: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/07/trump-administration-supporters-good/683441/   Russell Moore on AI and God: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/07/image-god-ai-era-artificial-intelligence-russell-moore/   Other Resources: Bearing Witness: What the Church Can Learn from Early Abolitionists by Daniel Lee Hill: https://a.co/d/8SrFKpm   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

The IRS has decided churches are no longer prohibited from endorsing political candidates. Is this a win for free speech or a reason for some churches to become even more partisan? The Department of Homeland Security has released a creepy new promotional video that uses the Bible to frame border security as a mission from God. The Christian who gave George W. Bush the idea of “compassionate conservatism” says the passing of the Big Beautiful Bill marks the end of an era for the GOP. Professor Ryan Burge is back with data about the religious outlook of Gen Z. Some see evidence of a revival, but Burge says it’s probably wishful thinking. Also this week, animal fashion news: chimp drip edition.   World Relief: https://worldrelief.org/advocate/   Holy Post Plus: Bonus Interview with Ryan Burge: https://www.patreon.com/posts/134198348/   Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/134204161/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:22 - Theme Song   3:44  - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   4:48 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/HOLYPOST to receive 50% off your first order   5:55 - Chimp Fashion!   12:56 - Christian in Government with PEPFAR   16:07 - The Johnson Amendment   29:24 - Bible Verse in an ICE Recruitment Ad   40:59 - Why Is the Church So Libertarian?   55:33 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   56:42 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   58:00 - Interview   1:00:45 - Why Are They Saying It’s a “Revival?”   1:09:05 - Can Revival Be Predicted?   1:16:50 - Church and Loneliness   1:29:46 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Chimps and Grassy Fashion! https://www.iflscience.com/chimps-are-sticking-grass-in-their-ears-and-rears-as-they-embrace-pointless-fad-79910   Other Resources: Ryan Burge’s Article on Gen Z Revival: https://www.graphsaboutreligion.com/p/is-there-a-religious-revival-occurring   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

When George W. Bush created the PEPFAR program in 2003, it was celebrated by evangelical leaders and has saved more than 26 million lives in Africa from HIV/AIDS. So why weren’t evangelicals outraged when Donald Trump killed PEPFAR, which has already resulted in over 75,000 deaths since January? Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn unpack the arguments for and against PEPFAR, and how evangelical support for “small government” only applies to some programs. Then, Katilyn talks to Sharon Hodde Miller about what the self-esteem movement gets wrong about insecurity, and how we can recover the Christian virtue of service and self-forgetfulness. Also this week, rotten butter ants invade Europe.   Holy Post Plus: Bonus Interview with Rachel Martin: https://www.patreon.com/posts/133604080/   Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/133671224/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:22 - Theme Song   3:45 - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 25% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST   4:50 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout.   5:58 - Stinky Ants in Europe!   11:41 - PEPFAR and Evangelicals   21:00 - Spiritual Formation of Small Government Politics   25:35 - Addressing Anti-PEPFAR arguments   48:55 - Sponsor - Policy Genius - Secure your family’s tomorrow so you have peace of mind today. Go to https://www.policygenius.com/HOLYPOST to find the right life insurance for you   50:12 - Interview   55:54 - Insecurity and Ministry   1:08:20 - The Emptiness of Self-Esteem   1:14:30 - Transactional Relationships   1:25:14 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Super Ants Invade! https://www.thetimes.com/world/europe/article/super-ants-germany-8wp8n83zm   Why Evangelicals Turned Their Back on PEPFAR: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/07/pepfar-evangelical/683418/   Other Resources: Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

With Phil on vacation, Kaitlyn and Esau join Skye to talk about the Supreme Court’s ruling that public schools must allow students to opt out of gender or sexuality content that may contradict the religious beliefs of their families. At the same time, more Americans say public schools should hire chaplains to offer spiritual guidance to students. With schools increasingly becoming the front line in the culture war, can public education survive? Then, Skye talks to Rachel Martin, the co-creator of NPR’s Wild Card podcast and former host of Morning Edition, about what she’s learned from interviewing artists, actors, and activists about their beliefs. She offers an intriguing glimpse into the spirituality of secular America. Also this week—the internet is full of bad advice about “toxic” relationships.   Use Promo Code “Book” to get 20% off your first subscription to Holy Post Plus!   Holy Post Plus: Bonus Interview with Rachel Martin: https://www.patreon.com/posts/133035879/   Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/133029177/   0:00 - Show Starts   2:30 - Theme Song   2:50 - Sponsor - Glorify - Sign up for the #1 Christian Daily Devotional App to help you stay focused on God. Go to https://glorify-app.com/en/HOLYPOST to download the app today!   3:55  - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   5:02 - LGBTQ Schoolbook Opt-Outs   27:12 - Who’s Toxic?   35:18 - Did We Jettison Forgiveness?   47:16 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   48:35 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   49:45 - Interview   55:00 - Staying Informed without Burnout   59:30 - Rachel’s Spiritual Background   1:13:52 - The Wild Card podcast and Spirituality   1:27:32 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Court’s Ruling on Parents Opting Out of LGBTQ books in Schools: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/27/us/politics/supreme-court-lgbtq-books.html   Majority of Americans Support Chaplains in Schools: https://www.foxnews.com/media/majority-adults-support-religious-chaplains-public-schools-new-report-shows   Other Resources: Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

Nothing fires up the End Times industry faster than America dropping bombs in the Middle East. After President Trump decided to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities this weekend, YouTube was flooded with convoluted and contradictory videos on the biblical implications of the war. But if this really is a prelude to Christ’s return, as many online end timers claim, why are they stoking panic and fear? Shouldn’t Christians welcome this news? Skye talks to Senator Chris Coons about how his faith informs his politics, why he went to divinity school, and what the Democrats can do to close the “God gap” in politics. Also this week—courts struck down the Louisiana law requiring the 10 Commandments to be posted in every public school classroom, and the real origin of “honky dory.”   Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/132203951/edit   0:00 - Show Starts   3:16 - Theme Song   3:40 - Sponsor - Policy Genius - Secure your family’s tomorrow so you have peace of mind today. Go to https://www.policygenius.com/HOLYPOST to find the right life insurance for you   4:53 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout.   7:11 - Protesting While in Red States   16:07 - End Times Prophecies and Iran   22:30 - Mark Driscoll and the Manosphere   26:26 - Louisiana and the 10 Commandments   37:44 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   38:52 - Sponsor - Our Place - Go to https://www.fromourplace.com and use code HOLYPOST to get 10% off site wide on beautiful cookware!   40:02 - Interview   42:36 - US Involvement in the Middle East   50:20 - Divinity School and Public Service   57:37 - The God Gap   1:08:35 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Russell Moore on Why We Shouldn’t Look for End Time Implications: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/06/bible-prophecy-war-iran-apocalypse-russell-moore/?utm_medium=widgetsocial   Louisiana Ten Commandments Law: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/20/us/politics/louisianas-ten-commandments-law-appeals-court-unconstitutional.html?searchResultPosition=17   Vox’s Article on the “New Religious Right” https://www.vox.com/politics/416042/religion-politics-trump-christian-nationalism-liberty-maga   Other Resources: Read the Introduction to Skye’s new book and sign up to Holy Post Plus to follow along as the book is written: holypost.com/book   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

It was a wild weekend. Donald Trump presided over a military parade on his birthday while an estimated 5 million Americans protested around the country. Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn discuss the optics of both events and ask, with America’s divided politics and media silos, is protesting still effective? They also unpack a new article by Abby McCloskey in CT that argues evangelicalism’s focus on a private, personalized faith undermines learning, curiosity, and exercising the mind. Then, theologian and Holy Post Pundit, Michael Bird, is back. He offers an outsider’s perspective on Trump’s military parade, the “No Kings” protests, and why he thinks more Christians should be concerned about the suspension of habeas corpus. Also this week: More ’50s slang and an update on Ed the zebra. Holy Post Plus: Getting Schooled - Ethics of Exile 101: https://www.patreon.com/posts/130879694/   Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/131691890/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:25 - Theme Song   3:50 - Sponsor - Timeless designs, great fabrics. Perfect swimwear for your kids this summer! Check out Minnow at https://www.shopminnow.com enter SHOPMINNOW15 for 15% off your first order.   4:57 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   6:18 - 50’s Slang   9:44 - Ed the Zebra’s Return!   14:35 - Military Parade   23:48 - What Does Protest Do?   32:05 - The Christian Mind Out of Practice   47:30 - Teaching Essentials of the Faith   50:21 -  Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   51:28- Sponsor - World Relief - Join The Path as a monthly partner with World Relief! https://www.worldrelief.org/stand   52:24 - Interview   59:30 - Polarization of the Military   1:10:05 - Right to Protest   1:19:45 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: A Christian Mind Out of Practice by Abby McCloskey: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/06/christian-mind-out-of-practice-mark-noll-discipleship/ Other Resources: Read the Introduction to Skye’s new book and sign up to Holy Post Plus to follow along as the book is written: holypost.com/book   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

Protests in Los Angeles against the Trump administration’s immigration policies have turned violent, but will the images of vandalism and attacks on police actually help the President? And Phil asks if there is any way to prevent necessary mass protests from becoming violent. One of the most respected Bible scholars of the last century has passed away. Old Testament professor Walter Bruggemann contrasted the world’s vision of scarcity with God’s kingdom of abundance, but Kaitlyn thinks his understanding of exile is over-applied today. Skye talks with his Holy Post Media colleague, Esau McCaulley, about his vocation as a priest, professor, and podcaster, and his desire to see Christianity applied to both the beauty and brokenness of the culture. Also this week—flying zebras and burning Waymos. Holy Post Plus: My Hill to Die On - Bidets: https://www.patreon.com/posts/my-hill-to-die-130797571 Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/131158009/   0:00 - Show Starts   4:30 - Theme Song   5:00 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 25% off sitewide for our listeners! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/HOLYPOST   6:05 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout.   7:20 - Runaway Ed the Zebra!   14:33 - LA Protests, Self-Driving Cars   20:30 - Is Violent Protest Inevitable?   30:38 - Walter Brueggemann’s Passing   34:22 - Kaitlyn’s Disagreement with Brueggemann   43:11 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/HOLYPOST to receive 50% off your first order   44:15 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   45:25 - Interview   47:32 - Why Esau’s an Anglican Priest   54:30 - Why Esau’s a Podcaster   1:04:20 - How Does Esau’s Brain Work?   1:12:38 - White Evangelicals Centering   1:19:45 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Pet Zebra Escaped! https://apnews.com/article/runaway-pet-zebra-captured-tennessee-54669b2fc2c1dffb87a09f4081d6c135   Other Resources: Check out The Esau McCaulley Podcast: https://pod.link/1770229436   Read the Introduction to Skye’s new book and sign up to Holy Post Plus to follow along as the book is written: holypost.com/book   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

In the past, debates over worship styles were often marked by generational differences; however, a new article suggests that this is changing. For Gen Z, worship preferences may be dividing along gender lines instead. For younger Christians, is CCM from Venus and liturgy from Mars? Drew Dyck joins Skye and Kaitlyn to discuss the evidence, the implications, and the solution for the worship gender divide. Then, Kaitlyn interviews Patrick Miller about his new book with co-author Keith Simon, “Joyful Outsiders.” He says there are six different ways we can respond to the loss of Christian cultural power, but all of them should be marked with joy rather than fear or anger. Also this week—listeners react to our criticism of “asking Jesus into your heart,” and pigeons on a plane. Holy Post Plus: Bonus Segment: https://www.patreon.com/posts/130626611/ Ad-Free Version of this Episode:   https://www.patreon.com/posts/130628699/ 0:00 - Show Starts   2:55 - Theme Song   3:18 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   4:25 - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 25% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST   5:36 - Animal News   13:07 - Jesus in Your Heart Response   25:27 - The Gen Z Worship War   36:23 - Low Church to High Church   51:50 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   53:06 - Sponsor - World Relief: The Path - Get your FREE prayer guide: Prayers for Such a Time as This. If you want to go beyond prayer, you can also learn more about joining The Path as a monthly partner with World Relief! https://www.worldrelief.org/holypost   54:15 - Interview   55:55- What Does it Mean to Be Joyful Outsiders?   1:00:20 - Are Christians Always Outsiders?   1:14:20 - Prophets and Hope   1:20:08 - Approaching Joyful Living   1:31:00 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Pigeons on a Plane! https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/delta-flight-erupts-chaos-pigeons-fly-main-cabin-rcna209400   Gen Z Gender Worship War: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/05/gen-z-worship-war-men-women-ccm-liturgy-tradition/   Other Resources: Joyful Outsiders: Six Ways to Live Like Jesus in a Disorienting Culture: https://a.co/d/9ouoDCT   Read the Introduction to Skye’s new book and sign up to Holy Post Plus to follow along as the book is written: holypost.com/book   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

Phil, Kaitlyn, and Skye respond to questions from the listeners, including whether lay people should go to seminary, how important is attending a church after being hurt by one, and whether Christians should make violent video games. They also venture into theological topics like what pronouns are appropriate for God, what doctrines do we emphasize too much, and why they all think telling kids to “ask Jesus into your heart” is a bad idea. The crew also revisits the topic of Project 2025 and whether they regret their dismissive opinions about it from before the election. Also this week—Skye reveals plans for his new project with Holy Post Media, and one listener's question prompts Kaitlyn to make a big announcement. Holy Post Plus: Hill to Die On (Phil on Swearing): https://www.patreon.com/posts/130018518/ Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/130022144/   0:00 - Sponsor - World Relief - Learn more about what life is like for refugees. Hear real stories to better understand what refugees are facing every day! https://www.worldrelief.org/whatisarefugee   1:09 - Show Starts   2:30 - Theme Song   2:51 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   3:56 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   5:04 - Is Protesting in Rotunda Illegal?   7:04 - Skye’s Next Book?   11:35 - Should Laypeople Go Into Seminary?   16:00 - What Do We Mean “Jesus in My Heart?”   24:00 - Project 2025   32:00 - Clarifying vs Changing Scripture   39:00 - Christians Making Video Games?   49:00 - What Theological Issues Do We Overrate?   55:00 - Church Community   59:33 - Special Question   1:06:01 - End Credits   Other Resources: Read the Introduction to Skye’s new book and sign up to Holy Post Plus to follow along as the book is written: holypost.com/book   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

Why are more churches rediscovering and reciting the Nicene Creed? And what can the ancient articulation of Christian belief offer the church in these divided times? Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn discuss the 1700th anniversary of the creed and its place in the modern church. The Bible is critical to our faith, but have we been taught to worship the Bible rather than the God of the Bible? Dave Ripper, the author of “Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus,” explains how Dallas Willard engaged the Bible and how it can become a source of transformation, not just information. Also this week: What qualifies as anti-Christian behavior, an update on Afghan and Afrikaner refugees, and scientists discover auras are real. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/129442102/   Bonus Interview with Dave Ripper: https://www.patreon.com/posts/129463513/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:35 - Theme Song   3:55 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   5:15 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   7:45 - Do Mice glow?   19:30 - Shane Claiborne Arrested   25:20 - The Nicene Creed’s Birthday!   31:30 - Why’s the Creed Popular Right Now?   52:12  - Sponsor - Timeless designs, great fabrics. Perfect swimwear for your kids this summer! Check out Minnow at https://www.shopminnow.com enter SHOPMINNOW15 for 15% off your first order.   53:20 - Sponsor - Policy Genius - Secure your family’s tomorrow so you have peace of mind today. Go to https://www.policygenius.com/HOLYPOST to find the right life insurance for you   54:32 - Interview   56:55 - How Did Ripper First Meet Willard?   1:03:50 - Jesus is a Genius   1:10:20 - Sin Management   1:22:50 - Memorizing Scripture   1:29:38 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: People Glow Til They Die! https://nationalpost.com/news/calgary-researchers-discover-that-life-has-a-literal-glow   Shane Claiborne Arrested! https://religionnews.com/2025/05/05/shane-claiborne-four-other-faith-activists-arrested-while-prayerfully-protesting-gop-budget-bill/   Popularity of the Nicene Creed https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/05/nicene-creed-anniversary-conference-ancient-christianity-trinity-theology/   Fox News and Christian Refugees https://www.foxnews.com/politics/afghan-christian-pastor-pleads-trump-warns-taliban-revenge-after-admin-revokes-refugee-protections?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=user%2FFoxNews   Other Resources: Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus: Reading the Bible like Dallas Willard by Dave Ripper: https://a.co/d/8oWLI3i   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

We have a pope and he’s American! Cardinal Robert Prevost from Chicago is now Pope Leo XIV, and his connection to The Holy Post is closer than anyone imagined. Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn discuss reactions to the new Pope and the significance of his name. Katelyn Beaty is back to discuss the evolution of the Q Conference, led by Gabe and Rebekah Lyons. Why has an event that started almost 20 years ago with a positive vision of Christian cultural engagement for the common good now shifted to embrace the culture war? And what does it reveal about larger changes within American evangelicalism? Also this week—The Trump administration is accepting refugees into the U.S. again (as long as they are white), the Quakers are on the move, caterpillar flair, and baby girl Bible names. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/128874502/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:25 - Theme Song   3:45  - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout.   4:50  - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   6:40 - Bone Collector Caterpillar   12:10 - What Did Tariffs Do?   22:50 - Quakers are on the Move!   27:17 - Chicago Pope!   45:47 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   46:56 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 30% off sitewide for our listeners when you use promocode HOLYPOST! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/HOLYPOST   48:00 - Interview   52:40 - What is the Q Conference?   1:02:44 - How Has the Q Conference Shifted?   1:12:18 - Ethics vs Pragmatism   1:21:23 - Responding to the Change in Evangelicalism   1:32:55 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Bone Collector Caterpillar! https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/carnivorous-bone-collector-caterpillars-wear-corpses-as-camouflage/   Quakers on the March! https://apnews.com/article/quakers-protest-march-trump-immigration-crackdown-af1ae4a3a608e59f97c96c8b7cf660a2?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=topic/religion Other Resources: What Happened to the Q Conference: https://katelynbeaty.substack.com/p/what-happened-to-q-conference-thinq-media-speakers   Quakers March to Protest Trump’s Immigration Crackdown https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/11/quakers-march-protest-trump-immigration-crackdown   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

The White House is facing backlash for posting an AI image of Donald Trump as the Pope. Was it a careless joke or a calculated distraction? The most extensive study of its kind finds that the world’s largest Muslim country far outranks the United States in human flourishing, and also explains why secular elites are discovering a new respect for religion. But is there more than a practical purpose behind faith? Historian Beth Allison Barr is back to discuss her latest book, “Becoming the Pastor’s Wife.” She says expectations for ministry spouses aren’t rooted in Scripture but in a reaction to feminism in the late 20th century, and Barr explains how marriage replaced ordination as the way for women to serve the church. Also this week—listener questions, and a whole new look for Holy Post Media.   Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/128303247/   Bonus Interview with Beth Allison Barr: https://www.patreon.com/posts/127935443/   0:00 - Show Starts   2:40 - Theme Song   3:00 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   4:10 - Sponsor - Our Place - Go to https://www.fromourplace.com and use code HOLYPOST to get 10% off site wide on beautiful cookware!   15:10 - Comparing two recent interviews: Gillibrand and Kasich   28:10 - Pope Donald?   34:24 - Human Flourishing Study in Indonesia!   54:53 - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 25% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST   56:00 - Sponsor - Glorify - Sign up for the #1 Christian Daily Devotional App to help you stay focused on God. Go to https://glorify-app.com/en/HOLYPOST to download the app today!   56:50 - Interview   1:02:24 - Danver’s Statement   1:09:09 - Rooted in America, not Scripture   1:19:19 - Honoring Responsibility   1:32:55 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Religion and Happiness in Indonesia: https://providencemag.com/2025/05/largest-longitudinal-study-of-human-flourishing-ever-shows-religions-importance/   Young People and Unhappiness: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/05/young-people-global-unhappiness/682632/   Tiktok Trend “Jesus Glow:” https://www.salon.com/2025/05/05/tiktoks-jesus-glow-trend-exposes-the-emptiness-of-social-media-religion/   Other Resources: Becoming the Pastor’s Wife: How Marriage Replaced Ordination as a Woman’s Path to Ministry by Beth Allison Barr: https://a.co/d/7kDNo1I   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

A slate of new articles analyzes Pope Francis through America’s progressive-conservative polarization, but are they confusing political categories with theological ones? Surprising data show that Gen Z is returning to religion, and belief in an afterlife is on the rise, but what's the explanation? Are young people returning to the church to rebel against their secular parents? Former Ohio Governor John Kasich believes America is on the cusp of a spiritual revival, and his new book, “Heaven Help Us,” explores how religious institutions are leading the way. He talks to Skye about how God used tragedy to awaken his own faith, and why he thinks this present era of greed and cowardice will pass. Also this week—a bunny, a Boeing, and a Bible illustration.   Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/127757278/   0:00 - Show Starts   2:40 - Theme Song   3:00 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off your first month   4:10 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout.   6:22 - Rare Rabbit Strike!   14:10 - Progressive Christians and the Pope   21:50 - What Even is Progressive Christianity?   32:44 - Is Gen Z Becoming Religious?   51:42 - Sponsor - Timeless designs, great fabrics. Perfect swimwear for your kids this summer! Check out Minnow at https://www.shopminnow.com enter SHOPMINNOW15 for 15% off your first order.   52:50 - Sponsor - Fabric by Gerber Life - Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://www.meetfabric.com/HOLYPOST   53:50 - Interview   56:15 - Kasich’s Testimony   1:03:15 - Institutions to Help the Individual   1:11:30 - Religious Division   1:22:00 - What Will Kasich Do Next?    1:28:45 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Rabbit in a Jet Engine! https://people.com/rabbit-causes-fire-on-united-airlines-flight-after-animal-is-sucked-into-engine-11716879   The Atlantic Article on Progressive Christianity Post-Pope: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/04/pope-francis-future-church/682543/?utm_medium=offsite&utm_source=flipboard&utm_campaign=ideas   The New York Times Article on Progressive Christianity Post-Pope:  https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/24/us/pope-christians.html?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=newyorktimes/magazine/U.S   Belief in an Afterlife is Increasing: https://www.graphsaboutreligion.com/p/belief-in-an-afterlife-is-increasing   Other Resources: Heaven Help Us: How Faith Communities Inspire Hope, Strengthen Neighborhoods, and Build the Future by John Kasich: https://a.co/d/dKAgkBj   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.