The Holy Post

Two writers from the New York Times say the liberal values that have flooded our culture with online gambling, pornography, and cannabis have backfired, but secular progressives, like Ezra Klein, admit that they don't have a framework for explaining why. Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn discuss the benefits and limitations of liberalism as a political and social philosophy, and why those on the left are increasingly aware of their need for religion. Matthew Soerens from World Relief is back to discuss why the Trump administration's immigration policies are so different in his second term, how the President's ever-changing rhetoric is causing chaos, and why America is accepting the collective punishment of immigrants. Also this week, raccoons are on a mission to be the pets of the future. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/145468927/   Holiday Hill to Die On: https://www.patreon.com/posts/145455604/   Advent Welcome: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/ogTPaT3   0:00 - Show Starts   4:45 - Theme Song   5:08 -  - Sponsor - Aura Frames - Need a Great Christmas Gift? Use code HOLYPOST at checkout to save $45-off the Carver Mat Aura Frame at https://www.AuraFrames.com   6:17 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 25% off sitewide for our listeners! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/HOLYPOST   7:40 - Racoons Got Cuter!   14:35 - Ross Douthet on Liberalism's Failures   28:45 - The Economy Can't Form Ethics   41:30 - Black and Latino Voices   52:45 - 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.   53:48 - Sponsor - PolicyGenius - 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    54:57 - Interview   57:03 - Afghanistan and Immigration   1:03:07 - Dehumanizing Rhetoric   1:21:12 - Christian Persecution and Immigration   1:31:14 - End Credits   1:31:46 - Sponsor - The Pour Over - Stay informed while remaining focused on Christ with The Pour Over Today. Check it out at https://links.thepourover.org/holy-post   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Raccoons Getting Cuter? https://allthatsinteresting.com/north-american-raccoon-domestication   Ross Douthet Piece on Liberalism https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/02/opinion/liberalism-postliberalism-affordability.html   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.  

The government of Israel has been criticized for building fences in Gaza and the West Bank, but now it's geofencing American churches. Will its plan reverse the decline of evangelical support for the Jewish state? Donald Trump says he's making the country more Christian, but data shows his immigration policy favors secular immigrants and rejects Christians. Rich Villodas is back to talk about his new book for Advent, "Waiting for Jesus." He says we should use this season to resist consumerism, commercialism, and Christian culturalism. Also this week, a giant flightless parrot has issues Down Under. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/144923335/   Advice-ish: https://www.patreon.com/posts/advice-ish-im-in-144823944   66 Verses to Explain the Bible:  https://www.patreon.com/posts/144916622/   0:00 - Show Starts   4:43- Theme Song   5:06 - 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!   6:05 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Get the AG1 welcome pack when you order from https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   7:35 - Toucan Butt Disease!   14:35 - Israel Geofencing Ads Around Churches   29:00 - Deportations Making America More Secular?   48:42 - Sponsor - World Relief - Start a monthly partnership with World Relief to help families in crisis at https://www.worldrelief.org/holypost   49:51 - Sponsor - Aura Frames - Need a Great Christmas Gift? Use code HOLYPOST at checkout to save $45-off the Carver Mat Aura Frame at https://www.AuraFrames.com   51:00 - Sponsor - Blueland - Just for this holiday season, Blueland has a special 30% off deal to help you keep your home clean this Christmas! Go to https://www.blueland.com/holypost   52:10 - Interview   54:06 - Church Calendar Explained   1:03:50 - Spirit of Herod   1:17:37 - End Credits   1:18:09 - Sponsor - The Pour Over - Stay informed while remaining focused on Christ with The Pour Over Today. Check it out at https://links.thepourover.org/holy-post   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Kakapo Crusty Butt Disease! https://www.popsci.com/environment/kakapo-antibiotics-crusty-bum/   Immigration Crackdown Making Us Less Christian? https://religionnews.com/2025/11/18/why-trumps-immigration-crackdown-may-make-america-less-christian/?utm_source=RNS+Updates&utm_campaign=506d68c8ac-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_11_19_01_03&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_c5356cb657-506d68c8ac-387424458   Other Resources: Waiting for Jesus: An Advent Invitation to Prayer and Renewal: An Advent Christmas Devotional by Rich Villodas: https://amzn.to/3Me8e8v   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're popping a Curiously Kaitlyn episode into your feed this week because we're starting a brand-new Advent series, and—let's be honest—the nativity story gets weird. Kids notice all the odd details we learned to ignore, and suddenly you're fielding questions you did not prepare for in Sunday School.So instead of scrambling for answers all by yourself, you can join us all month as we explore the questions your kids (and most adults!) are genuinely curious about. First up: Who exactly are the wise men, and why do they show up in the nativity scene at all? If you enjoy the conversation, make sure you're subscribed to Curiously Kaitlyn wherever you get your podcasts. We've got a whole month of Christmas episodes coming your way. 0:00 - Theme Song   2:05 - What's Up With the Star?   9:00 - How Many Wise Men?   12:50 - Sponsor - Blueland - For 15% off first order of Blueland cleaning products, go to this link: https://www.blueland.com/CURIOUSLY   14:03 - Sponsor - Aura Frames - Need a holiday gift to share memories? Get 35% off the Aura Carver Mat Frame with promo code KAITLYN at https://www.auraframes.com   15:04 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/CURIOUSLY to receive 50% off your first order   17:00 - Why's this in the Bible?   27:00 - Balaam and the Magi   37:37 - End Credits

The term "Judeo-Christian" has been used by the Religious Right for decades as a positive shorthand for biblical values in the culture, so why are conservative Christians now rejecting the label? And why are Christian defenses of slavery and the Confederacy gaining popularity 160 years after the Civil War? Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn explain how the rising influence of Christian nationalism drives both trends. J. Ross Wagner, editor of the new book, "Being Christian After the Desolation of Gaza," talks to Skye about how both American and Palestinian Christians are reexamining evangelical support for Israel. Also this week, a woman has been hiding in the New Testament for nearly 2,000 years, and there's a new horror movie about a teenage Jesus. What could go wrong? Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/144401051/   Advice-ish: https://www.patreon.com/posts/advice-ish-i-go-144317341   0:00 - Show Starts   3:29 - Theme Song   3:50 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 25% off sitewide for our listeners! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/HOLYPOST   4:53 - Sponsor - PolicyGenius - 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   6:02 - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 15% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST   7:10 - Jesus Horror Movie?   13:44 - Hidden Woman in the Bible?   20:20 - Judeo-Christian No More?   31:50 - Slavery Debate Continues   52:19 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 50% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST50 at checkout.   53:23 - Sponsor - World Relief - Help families overseas and refugees in crisis! Right now, a $200,000 challenge gift multiplies every gift by three! This ends December 2nd, so act now at https://www.worldrelief.org/holypost   54:25 -  Sponsor - Tyndale - The Life Application Study Bible is here to give you resources to help you understand why scripture matters and how it applies today! Check it out now at: https://www.tyndale.com/sites/lasb/?utm_campaign=Bibles%20-%20NLT%20Life%20Applicati[…]ource=Holy%20Post%20Podcast&utm_medium=Microsite%20Nov%202025   55:25 - Interview   58:20 - Why Was This Written?   1:03:50 - Pro-Israel and Antisemitism   1:13:31 - Christian Palestinian Response   1:22:00 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Christianity Today Article on Jesus Horror Movie: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/11/the-carpenters-son-nicolas-cage/?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Christians%20from%2045%20Countries%20Petition%20China%20to%20Release%20Pastor%20%7C%20Hindu%20Nationalists%20Attack%20Missionary%20Bus%3A%20CT%20Daily&utm_campaign=CT%20Daily%20Briefing%20-%2011-14-2025&vgo_ee=A9uyoW2d0AIM3QLf0XsIr2KqZu31%2FZWwqyRndI7tytjVfTLPKU7FMTrl8ZnNdw%3D%3D%3AGQRnuGbB%2B00KGOB7ZwEM%2FCWGl7W8Ep9S   Woman Hidden in the Bible: https://greekreporter.com/2025/11/21/lost-greek-woman-bible/?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=GreekReporter/magazine/Greek+Reporter   The Right Rejecting the Judeo-Christian term: https://religionnews.com/2025/11/18/on-the-right-judeo-christian-values-are-out-and-christian-nationalism-is-in/?utm_source=RNS+Updates&utm_campaign=506d68c8ac-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_11_19_01_03&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_c5356cb657-506d68c8ac-387424458   Other Resources: Being a Christian After the Desolation of Gaza by Bruce Fisk and J. Ross Wagner: https://amzn.to/482NkBU   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.  

Mike Erre joins Phil and Skye to discuss a New York Times column by David Brooks. He says America's divisions will only heal when we abandon shallow labels and war metaphors, and instead see one another as fellow pilgrims on a journey. America's Catholic bishops issue a stern rebuke of the Trump administration's dehumanizing rhetoric and policies, which makes Phil wonder why evangelical leaders can't do the same. Then, Skye talks to Kentucky's Democratic governor, Andy Beshear, about why he's so popular in a state that Donald Trump won by 30 points, and how his party can begin to narrow the "God gap" with voters. Also this week—an A.I. vacuum cleaner has an existential crisis. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/143884054/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:32 - Theme Song   3:54 - 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!   4:54 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Get the AG1 welcome pack when you order from https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   6:20 -  AI Roomba Has a Breakdown 16:08- David Brooks on Pilgrimage and Pluralism   45:50 - Catholic Bishops Critical on Immigration Law   50:12 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 25% off sitewide for our listeners! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/HOLYPOST   51:15 -  Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   52:21 - Interview   54:48 - What Went Wrong with Democrats?   1:03:42 - Fire with Fire Approach?   1:09:06 - Democrat's Aversion to Religious Language   1:13:30 - Pro-Life Democrats?   1:21:51 - How Will Democrats Change?   1:25:32 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Roomba Butter Breakdown: https://futurism.com/artificial-intelligence/llm-robot-vacuum-existential-crisis   David Brooks Article on Pluralism: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/13/opinion/christian-nationalism.html   Catholic Bishops on Trump's Immigration Policies: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/12/us/bishops-trump-immigration.html   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.  

The Democratic Party swept the off-cycle elections last week, but this isn't the first blue wave we've seen in the Trump era. Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn discuss what it means and the significance of New York City electing a Muslim, democratic socialist as mayor. Does Mamdani represent the death of New York, and possibly America, as one Baptist leader claims? Old Testament scholar Carmen Imes is back to discuss why she hasn't given up on the church, and we shouldn't either. Her new book is "Becoming God's Family: Why the Church Still Matters." Also this week—how social media is making Christianity dumber and what to do about it. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/143354201/   66 Verse to Explain the Bible - 1 Chronicles: https://www.patreon.com/posts/143353236/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:54 - Theme Song   4:15 - Sponsor - Our Place - Go to https://www.fromourplace.com and use code HOLYPOST to get 10% off site wide on beautiful cookware!   5:25 - 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   6:30 - Blue Wave or Just a Wash?   12:12 - Buzz Around Mamdani   24:00 - Critics of Israel Called Anti-Semetic   30:11 - NYC, Immigration, and Voting Rights   52:28 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 50% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout.   53:22 - Sponsor - World Relief - Start your monthly partnership today to help care for others in need: https://www.worldrelief.org/holypost   54:47 - Interview   1:05:00 - Why's the Old Testament Relevant?   1:13:00 - Struggles for the Church   1:28:28 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Fareed Zakaria Article: https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2025/11/08/democrats-elections-populism-economy-culture/   Washington Post Article: https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2025/11/08/zohran-mamdani-class-warfare-new-york-mayor/   Anti-Intellectual Christianity on Tiktok: https://juicyecumenism.com/2025/11/07/anti-intellectual-christianitys-rise/   Other Resources: Becoming God's Family: Why Church Still Matters by Carmen Imes: https://a.co/d/inzSS5d   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.  

Open Nazi rhetoric is gaining traction on the right, and the response from conservative institutions has been inconsistent at best. Skye and David trace the roots of the problem, the incentives that fueled it, and the late-breaking backlash that may signal a tipping point. They also look at ICE's increasingly aggressive "Kavanaugh stops," the risks of expanding executive power, and why election integrity could be threatened when extremism and state authority begin to reinforce each other.   Want the full episode? Go to The SkyePod feed to hear it now!

A new survey finds that moderately religious Americans are the most likely to say that they see dead people. Which raises a question—why are the non-religious and the very religious less likely to report encounters with the departed? New York Times columnist Ezra Klein says that by over-emphasizing inclusivity, the Democratic Party has ironically become less inclusive. And Ryan Burge looks at the numbers behind the party's growing "God problem." Will the Democrats ever figure out how to compete against MAGA? New Testament scholar N.T. Wright is back to discuss his latest book, "The Vision of Ephesians." He tells Skye that the modern church has overemphasized the gospel importance of going to heaven and underemphasized the gospel importance of church unity. Also this week—Phil digs his hole with fans of Wicked even deeper. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/142839301/   Bonus Interview with N. T. Wright: https://www.patreon.com/posts/142748921/ 0:00 - Show Starts   4:23 - Theme Song   4:46 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/HOLYPOST to receive 50% off your first order 5:50 - 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   7:33 - Live Show Debrief   9:20 - Phil's Beef with Wicked   15:26 - Visited by the Dead?   25:44 - Ezra Klein on Why Democrats Aren't Winning   49:23 - 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!   50:23 - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 15% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST   51:30 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Get the AG1 welcome pack when you order from https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   52:57 - Interview   55:50 - The Joining of Heaven and Earth   1:04:11 - Unity of the Church   1:16:43 - Barriers Against Multiculturalism   1:28:28 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: 4 in 10 Evangelicals Say They've Been Visited by the Dead https://www.christianitytoday.com/2023/09/christians-dead-relatives-visits-experiences-pew-research/ Other Resources: The Vision of Ephesians: The Task of the Church and the Glory of God by N. T. Wright: https://a.co/d/5R4z3ys   Ezra Klein Article on the Democratic Party: https://www.nytimes.com/video/opinion/100000010495041/this-is-how-the-democratic-party-beats-trump.html   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.  

This week is Halloween, and on this special episode recorded with a live audience, the Holy Post hosts discuss why our culture isn't afraid of monsters and demons anymore. How did all of our pop culture heroes and villains become morally ambiguous? Also, would communal living solve our loneliness epidemic? Kaitlyn is all for it, but Skye isn't so sure. Also this week—audience Q&A, Phil, Skye, Kaitlyn, and Esau play a game of true confessions, and Phil's favorite news segment comes full circle. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/142272469/   Bonus Question: https://www.patreon.com/posts/142275742/   0:00 - Show Starts   2:34 - Theme Song   9:55 - 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.   11:04 - Sponsor - Credible Witness - In a world where the church's credibility is in question, we share stories that still bear witness to Christ's radical love, resilient hope, and transforming justice:  https://bit.ly/42rh6wC   12:09 - Should We Be in Communes?   27:55 - Why Aren't We Scared of Demons Anymore?   33:30 - The Loss of Heroes?   47:40 - Skye's Take on Halloween   50:12 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 25% off sitewide for our listeners! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/HOLYPOST   51:20 - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   52:30 - 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!   53:30 - Q&A: God's Leading vs Dreams   58:16 - Q&A: Less News of the Butt   1:00:18 - Q&A: New Taylor Swift Album   1:03:42 - Q&A: Magic in Media   1:12:12 - True Confessions   1:22:00 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Butt breathing! https://www.sciencealert.com/human-trials-bring-us-closer-to-breathing-through-our-butts   It's not normal to raise kids like this: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/14/opinion/culture/community-parenting-village.html   We're not afraid of demons or monsters anymore: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/08/labubu-kpop-demon-hunters-demon-slayer/   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.  

A recent article tries to explain why so many politically active Christians behave unchristianly in the public square by differentiating "vertical" and "horizontal" sources of morality. The Holy Post crew examines the argument and finds it weak. Has MAGA ignited a revival in the U.S.? David French says we may be confusing a political revolution for a spiritual revival. Jamin Goggin joins Skye to discuss recovering the practice of confession in our churches. Goggin says it should start with pastors. Also this week—man does not live by 1200-year-old bread alone.   0:00 - Show Starts 2:59 - Check out the After Party's free 6-week video course, the companion book, a workshop version of the content, or their new worship album with The Porter's Gate. https://redeemingbabel.org/the-after-party/free-course2/?utm_source=TPO&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=TheHolyPost&utm_term=Fall2025 4:25 - Sponsor - AG1 - Get a free welcome kit (worth $75) when you sign up here - drinkag1.com/holypost  5:49 - No Kings Protest 10:15 - Image of Christ found in 1200 year old bread 14:56 - Revival or Revolution? 26:38 - Vertical morality vs Horizontal morality 41:55 - The Daily Wire critiques Skye 46:22 - Sponsor - Policy Genius - Head on over to policygenius.com/HOLYPOST to compare life insurance quotes and get the coverage you need. 47:35 - Sponsor - World Relief - Download your free set of conversation cards from World Relief today at worldrelief.org/holypost 49:52 - Interview with Jamin Goggin Pastoral Confessions: The Healing Path to Faithful Ministry by Jamin Goggin https://amzn.to/4hpofnN 1:25:52 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: 1,200-year-old loaf of bread with image of Christ unearthed in astonishing find https://nypost.com/2025/10/19/science/1200-year-old-bread-with-jesus-christ-image-found-by-archaeologists/?utm_medium=social&sr_share=facebook&utm_campaign=nypost&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwY2xjawNi-xJleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETA0YmZZOFBLMVUza3hKUjRHAR6thrb2r4iIMQPMZyf1x_ZHKvwAdV2kC0OeKNK27EbPh_Dl_jEB8dR96nj73Q_aem_3uAmjM1LsHe35z6sj6GkHw What Drives MAGA Christians' Un-Christian Actions? Experts Say It Comes Down To This. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/vertical-morality-maga-christians_l_68dc8386e4b0b11989f00fb8   Something Is Stirring in Christian America, and It's Making Me Nervous https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/16/opinion/christianity-charlie-kirk-revolution-revival.html Other Resources:   Pastoral Confessions: The Healing Path to Faithful Ministry by Jamin Goggin https://amzn.to/4hpofnN   The Way of the Dragon or the Way of the Lamb: Searching for Jesus' Path of Power in a Church that Has Abandoned It https://amzn.to/4neWFL6 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 a series of invitation-only, off-the-record lectures about Christianity, technology billionaire Peter Thiel said the antichrist is trying to regulate technology and billionaires. Which raises the question—Why do we always remake Christ in our image and the antichrist in our enemies'? Gen Z is making conservative Christianity more angry, intolerant, and illiberal. What's fueling the younger generation's interest in religious fundamentalism? Counter-terrorism expert Elizabeth Neumann is back to discuss the rising acceptance of political violence among young adults and why she expects things to get worse before they get better. Also this week—the fishy origin of fingers. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/141225776/   The World Born in You: Letter Five: https://www.patreon.com/posts/141230250/   0:00 - Show Starts   2:05 - Theme Song   3:13 - Sponsor - Our Place - Go to https://www.fromourplace.com and use code HOLYPOST to get 10% off site wide on beautiful cookware!   4:24 - Sponsor - Hiya Health - Go to https://www.hiyahealth.com/HOLYPOST to receive 50% off your first order   5:45 - Fingers are Fish Butts?   9:23 Peter Thiel's Antichrist Fixation   23:51 - Conservative Christian Gen Z   39:24 - Black-and-White Internet Narratives   48:09 - Swiss Chocolate!   50:08 - 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!   51:13 - 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!   52:13 - Sponsor - Credible Witness - In a world where the church's credibility is in question, we share stories that still bear witness to Christ's radical love, resilient hope, and transforming justice:  https://bit.ly/42rh6wC   53:15 - Interview    55:29 - Belief Systems and Violence   1:03:24 - Young People and Violence   1:11:16 - Is Violence a Reflection of Lack of Power?   1:17:15 - Trusting Jesus Instead of Violence   1:26:04 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Peter Thiel and the Antichrist: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/oct/13/antichrist-peter-thiel-michigan   Are Fingers Just Long Butts? https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/human-finger-regulatory-genes-originally-fish-cloaca-butt   Gen Z Conservatives: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/13/opinion/gen-z-conservative-christianity.html   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.  

For the first time ever, the U.K. has appointed a woman as the Archbishop of Canterbury to lead the global Anglican Communion. Kaitlyn, Skye, and Mike Erre discuss the implications of appointment and how Anglicans use "flying bishops" to maintain unity over divisive theological issues. Are there lessons here for other divided Christian communities? The latest "State of Theology" report shows a shocking number of evangelicals hold contradictory beliefs. Why are evangelical churches so bad at teaching the Bible and theology? Kaitlyn talks with A.J. Swoboda and Nijay Gupta, co-authors of "Slow Theology," about how our cultural addiction to speed and quick answers actually fuels spiritual disillusionment and deconstruction. Also this week—new data shows why most female animals outlive males. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/140691242/   The World Born in You Chapter 5 is out now! https://www.patreon.com/posts/world-born-in-5-140671195   0:00 - Show Starts   3:08 - Theme Song   3:30 - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 15% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST   4:40 - Sponsor - AG1 - Get the AG1 welcome pack when you order from https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   6:11 - Men Die Sooner Than Women!   14:22 - Women Can Be Archbishops?   36:15 - Why Don't Evangelicals Know Theology?   52:49 - 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!   53:50 - 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.   55:55 - Interview   56:17 - Why Slow Theology?   59:50 - Deconstruction as Chemotherapy   1:13:17 - Orthodoxy for Power Rather Than Obedience   1:27:02 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Why Women Live Longer: https://www.mpg.de/25470066/0926-evan-why-women-live-longer-than-men-150495-x   Anglican Church Tension Over Woman as New Archbishop: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/10/archbishop-of-canterbury-anglican-church-conservative-divides/   Study Shows Evangelicals Don't Know Theology: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/10/state-of-theology-evangelicals-confused-conflicted-belief/ Other Resources: Slow Theology: Eight Practices for Resilient Faith in a Turbulent World (A Guide to Deep Faith in Our Busy Modern Lives) by A. J. Swoboda and Nijay K. Gupta: https://a.co/d/iCKFGjf   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.  

After a South African pastor claimed that Christ would come for his church on September 23, TikTok became rapture obsessed. Mike Erre joins Skye and Kaitlyn to discuss our ongoing fixation with this bad theology, why people get caught up in rapture predictions, and how it damages the credibility of the faith. Kaitlyn talks to Medieval scholar, Grace Hamman, about her new book, "Asks of Old Paths." Hamman says Medieval literature is rich in wisdom for modern Christians on how to define a good life, using the language of virtues and vices. Also this week—a secular writer examines the benefit of confession and repentance, which makes us wonder why so few Christians practice it. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/140119354/   0:00 - Show Starts   2:10 - Theme Song   2:32 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 25% off sitewide for our listeners! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/HOLYPOST   3:39 - 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   5:20 - The Rapture's a Tiktok trend?   12:52 - Why's The Rapture so Popular?   32:04 - Psychology and Repentance   41:00 - Self-Interest and Righteousness   54:22 - 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!   55:30 - Sponsor - Rooted Ministry - A gospel-centered conference this October for youth, children's, and family ministry! Check it out at https://rootedministry.com/conference/   56:26 - Interview   58:05 - Why is Medieval poetry relevant?   1:05:22 - Virtues and Vices   1:16:20 - What's a Vice We Misunderstand?   1:27:02 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Rapture Last Week! https://www.complex.com/pop-culture/a/jadegomez510/the-rapture-2025-tiktok   Psychological Value of Repentance https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/21/briefing/the-psychological-value-of-repentance.html   Other Resources: Ask of Old Paths: Medieval Virtues and Vices for a Whole and Holy Life by Grace Hamman: https://a.co/d/6WRgTtu 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 memorial service for Charlie Kirk revealed a deep contradiction with the MAGA movement. Kirk's widow was cheered when she forgave his assassin and modeled Jesus' command to love your enemies. But the crowd also cheered when Stephen Miller and President Trump dehumanized their opponents and expressed hatred for their enemies. Esau McCaulley joins Phil and Skye to discuss the tension between Christian love and pagan power. Also this week, Dr. Terence Lester tells his inspiring story in his new book, "From Dropout to Doctorate," and how he's working both spiritually and systemically to reform education. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/139584724/   Cotton Candy Debate? https://www.patreon.com/posts/my-hill-to-die-139484708   0:00 - Show Starts   3:00 - Theme Song   3:21 - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   4:35 - 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.   7:35 - Charlie Kirk's Mixed Memorial Service   11:56 - Christlike Responses   22:53 - Two MAGAs   31:57 - Black Christians Grapple with Kirk's Legacy   42:50 - Sponsor - World Relief - Join The Path as a monthly partner with World Relief! https://www.worldrelief.org/holypost   44:00 - The After Party - What's discipling you? Reimagine political engagement through the lens of scripture and neighbor love with the free Redeeming Babble course today - https://redeemingbabel.org/the-after-party/free-course2/?utm_source=TPO&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=TheHolyPost&utm_term=Fall2025   45:07 - 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 - Interview   47:46 - How Poverty Causes Trauma   52:47 - The Headstart People Don't Get   1:01:48 - The Sick, Sin, and System Narratives   1:14:33 - How He Decided Not to Quite   1:25:18 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Bulwark Article on Two Speeches at the Memorial: https://www.thebulwark.com/i/174243794/a-tale-of-two-speeches   Black Christians Confront Charlie Kirk's Religious Legacy: https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2025/09/22/charlie-kirk-black-christians/   Other Resources: From Dropout to Doctorate: Breaking the Chains of Educational Injustice by Terence Lester: https://a.co/d/itUHu8I 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.  

Last week, a gunman in Utah killed Charlie Kirk on a college campus. Rather than uniting the country against political violence, Kirk's assassination has only made divisions wider. Some on the left celebrated his death, saying he reaped what he sowed, while some on the right, including the President, are calling for retribution against all leftists. One of the few voices trying to lower the temperature has been Utah's Republican governor, Spencer Cox, who lamented the polarizing influence of social media and the "conflict entrepreneurs who benefit from radicalizing us." Phil offers his coffeeshop reflections on how both the right and left justify hating the other side, while Kaitlyn and Skye discuss the need for faithful leadership when all of the incentives are against it. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/139045122/   0:00 - Show Starts   2:13 - Theme Song   2:35  - 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   4:15 - Sponsor - Our Place - Go to https://www.fromourplace.com and use code HOLYPOST to get 10% off site wide on beautiful cookware!   15:41 - Tony Perkins Article on America   23:22 - There Are Monsters in Your Midst, Too   29:15-  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   30:29 - 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!   31:47 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Get the AG1 welcome pack when you order from https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   33:03 - The Increasing Acceptance of Political Violence   41:06 - Platforms of Hate   59:41 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Tony Perkin's Article on Charlie Kirk: https://www.christianpost.com/voices/charlie-kirk-and-americas-turning-point.html   David French's Article: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/14/opinion/charlie-kirk-assassination-ideology.html   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.  

Following the school shooting in Minneapolis, The Christian Post has offered a definitive answer for why these massacres keep happening and why gun restrictions won't work—people are evil. But why don't politically conservative Christians apply this logic to any other issues? Surprising new data show that more young men than women want to be parents one day, and there's a growing trend of single men becoming fathers by choice. What does this reveal about our society and the breakdown of dating and marriage? Theologian and best-selling author, Miroslav Volf, discusses his new book, "The Cost of Ambition." He says our culture of competition is damaging, and too many Christians ignore what the Bible says about the dangers of ambition. Also this week, Phil brings us news from the glowing future. Holy Post Plus: Hills to Die On: https://www.patreon.com/posts/138522925/ Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/138531923/   0:00 - Show Starts   2:05 - Theme Song   2:30 - 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!   3:35 - 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.   5:12 - News of the Glowing Future   11:58 - Mass Shootings and the Evils of Man   20:28- Is This an Argument for Antinomianism?   33:34 - Single Fathers by Choice?   50:35 - Sponsor - Student Life Application Study Bible - A study guide, using the New Living Translation, made specifically to bring the Bible to life for students! Go to https://www.SLASB.com   51:40 - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   52:52 - 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!   54:00 - Interview   57:06 - America and Competition   1:01:23 - Superiority vs. Excellence   1:13:28 - Nothing Out of Selfish Ambition   1:23:25 - End Credits   Links Mentioned in News Segment: Glowing succulent plants! https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/researchers-create-rechargeable-glow-in-the-dark-succulents-180987265/   Christian Post's Take on Minneapolis Shooting: https://www.christianpost.com/voices/an-answer-to-why-minneapolis-catholic-school-shooting-happened.html   Single Fathers by Choice: https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2025/08/single-fathers-by-choice-america/683885/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=the-atlantic-am&utm_term=The+Atlantic+AM   Other Resources: The Cost of Ambition: How Striving to Be Better Than Others Makes us Worse (Why Ambition Is at Odds with the Christian Faith) (Theology for the Life of the World) by Miroslav Volf: https://a.co/d/gZnFRX7   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.  

Is unity in the church still possible when everyone is so divided? At the Legacy Conference in Chicago, Beth Moore joins Esau, Kaitlyn, and Skye to wrestle with what it means to remain in community with believers we deeply disagree with. Together they explore why purity tests are dividing Christians online, how cynicism masquerades as wisdom, and why endless outrage is not a productive way to go through life. Plus, some Q and A with the audience, and humpback whales may be the key to solving the empathy debate.   Holy Post Plus: Bonus Q&A Question: https://www.patreon.com/posts/137970653/ Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/137970645/   1:03 - Theme Song   2:28 - Empathetic Humpback Whales!   10:30  - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 25% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST   11:35 - 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!   12:45 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   14:21 - Purity and Unity   28:07 - Sponsor - Blueland - Get up to 25% off your first order by going to https://www.Blueland.com/HOLYPOST   29:11 - Sponsor - For the Good of the Public Summit - CCPL's annual summit in Washington, DC to act on important public issues. Go to https://www.ccpubliclife.org/summit and use code HOLYPOST for 20% off!   30:20 - Tired of Anger   43:30 - Is it Worth Engaging Twitter?   47:13 - Do We Just Believe What We Want?   57:37 - When Do You Look for a new Church?   1:00:59 - When is Something a Heresy?   1:12:28 - How to Love Those Who Are Against You?   1:15:35 - End Credits   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.

James Dobson, the founder of Focus on the Family, died this week. Critics are saying Dobson was the "godfather of child abuse," while his fans are saying he belongs on the Mount Rushmore of evangelicalism. Who's right? Phil, Skye, and Mike Erre discuss Dobson's legacy and why the controversial conservative is secretly responsible for the creation of VeggieTales. Rising political social media star and Texas state representative, James Talarico, joins Skye to talk about his faith and what makes his frequent references to Christianity in his progressive politics different from the approach of Christian nationalists. Also this week—Cracker Barrel apologizes for changing its logo after being accused of stripping away America's heritage and culture.   Holy Post Plus: Getting Schooled - Did the Father Forsake the Son on the Cross? https://www.patreon.com/posts/137415183/ Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/137414267/ 0:00 - Show Starts   2:03 - Theme Song   2:09 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - Brooklyn Bedding is offering up to 25% off sitewide for our listeners! Go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com/HOLYPOST   3:18 - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   4:48 - Cracker Barrel Logo Gone Woke?   23:36 - James Dobson Passed Away   38:45 - No Dobson Means No Veggietales?   55:32 - 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!   56:30 - 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.   57:36 - Interview   1:01:15 - Telerico's Faith Background   1:09:54 - Does the Democratic Party Align with Christianity?   1:20:37 - Flipping Tables   1:28:25 - Christianity and Welcoming the Stranger   1:35:30 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Cracker Barrel logo change! https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/aug/26/cracker-barrel-logo-apology   Dobson's Passing: https://www.christianpost.com/voices/jim-dobson-a-giant-of-the-faith.html   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.  

New data shows the nations with the highest standards of living are seeing the sharpest declines in wellbeing, while people in poorer countries are reporting more happiness. What's going on? David Brooks' recent article looked at data from 142 countries, and he concludes that spirituality and social connection, not just wealth, are critical to human flourishing. In related news, since legalizing euthanasia in 2016 and expanding access to it, Canada has seen an alarming trend. Then, it's been 100 years since the Scopes Monkey Trial. Phil talks to Chris Staron, creator of the Truce podcast, about what really happened at the trial and how fictional retellings of the event are still impacting American culture. Also this week—a fox with a footwear fetish.   Ad-Free Version of this Episode https://www.patreon.com/posts/136881579/   0:00 - Show Starts   2:03 - Theme Song   2:26- Sponsor - AG1 - Get the AG1 welcome kit worth $76 for FREE when you order from https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   3:52 - Sponsor - Rocket Money - Find and cancel your old subscriptions with Rocket Money at https://www.rocketmoney.com/HOLYPOST   5:00 - French Friday Theme Played for Chris Christie?   6:48 - Foxes Swiping Shoes?   13:15 - Why Are We So Hopeless?   30:40 - Canada is killing itself   48:08 - 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!   49:25 - 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   50:24 - Sponsor - World Relief - Nearly half of all refugee children won't attend school this year. Learn about how you can partner monthly with World Relief to provide safety, stability and hope for children and families in crisis at https://www.worldrelief.org/holypost   52:00 - Interview - Listen to Chris Staron's Truce Podcast episode on the Scopes Monkey Trials! https://trucepodcast.com/the-scopes-monkey-trial-dayton-tennessee-william-jennings-bryan-clarence-darrow/   54:00 - Scopes Monkey Trials—Who Cares?   1:10:16 - How We Misremembered   1:18:27 - What'd the Trails Change?   1:28:46 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Foxes Swiping Shoes! https://www.backpacker.com/news-and-events/news/fox-shoe-theft-grand-teton/   Why More People in the World Are Feeling Hopeful by Arthur Brooks: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/07/opinion/happiness-community-wealth.html   Less Religion, less babies! https://www.newsweek.com/less-religion-less-babies-declining-birth-rate-2110254   Canada is Killing Itself: https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2025/09/canada-euthanasia-demand-maid-policy/683562/ 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.  

The Holy Post crew is suspicious of a new study that finds MAGA supporters score higher in  authoritarianism, social dominance, and malevolent personality traits, while liberals score higher in compassion and empathy. Church planter, Brad Edwards, says many of us hold beliefs, language, and values that sabotage our ability to benefit from participation in a church. He talks to Kaitlyn about his new book, "The Reason for Church," and why our anti-institutional instincts are self-defeating. Also this week, the Secretary of Defense reposted comments from his pastor that women shouldn't be allowed to vote. The Catholic Church says ICE detainees are being denied their religious rights. And robo-bunnies of death. Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/136333510/   Bonus Interview with Brad Edwards: https://www.patreon.com/posts/136265237/   0:00 - Show Starts   3:25 - Theme Song Updated!   3:48 - 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   5:27 - Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   7:06 - Okoboji!   12:53 - Robo-Rabbits vs Snakes!   18:53 - Hegseth Opposes Women's Suffrage?   22:42 - Priests Alligator Alcatraz   28:22 - Conservative/Liberal Empathy Study   48:50 - 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   50:00 - Sponsor - Our Place - Go to https://www.fromourplace.com and use code HOLYPOST to get 10% off site wide on beautiful cookware!   51:11 - Interview - The Reason for Church: Why the Body of Christ Still Matters in an Age of Anxiety, Division, and Radical Individualism by Brad Edwards: https://amzn.to/45y9zNz   53:48 - Where's the Church at?   1:01:33 - Institution vs Therapy Speak   1:14:00 - Compassion as Moral Framework   1:26:15 - End Credits   Links from News Segment: Robot Bunnies in Florida: https://www.popsci.com/environment/robot-bunnies-florida-invasive-pythons/   Priests going to Alligator Alcatraz: https://religionnews.com/2025/08/07/archbishops-win-at-alligator-alcatraz-exposes-gop-religious-freedom-hypocrisy/   Women's Suffrage in question? https://www.thebulwark.com/p/pete-hegseth-shares-video-about-ending?utm_source=flipboard&utm_content=user%2FTheBulwark   Conservative vs Liberal Empathy Study: https://scottbarrykaufman.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Neumann-Ngo-2025-Malevolent-vs.-benevolent-dispositions-and-conservative-political-ideology-in-the-Trump-era.pdf 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.