The discussion centers around the concept of false converts, a critical issue in evangelism that hampers genuine outreach efforts. Andrew Rapoport and his friend Randy dive deep into the characteristics of false converts, highlighting how these individuals often believe they are saved while lacking true understanding or commitment to the gospel. They explore the complexities of church dynamics, where many attendees may outwardly appear to embrace faith yet remain spiritually blind to their own need for salvation. The conversation also touches on the implications of self-righteousness and the dangers posed by a superficial faith that fails to recognize the gravity of sin and the necessity of repentance. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own faith and discern whether their beliefs align with a true understanding of Christ's sacrifice and the transformative power of genuine conversion. Throughout the episode, the hosts maintain a light-hearted yet profound tone, making it both engaging and thought-provoking.

In this eye-opening episode, Andrew Rapoport and Randy Atkins tackle the perplexing issue of false converts within the Christian faith. Their relaxed, colloquial banter does not diminish the gravity of the topic, as they delve into the intricacies of what it means to truly follow Christ versus merely adopting a title. Rapoport brings his expertise as the executive director of Striving for Eternity into the conversation, outlining the historical and theological implications of false conversions that have plagued the church throughout the ages. They discuss how cultural trends and modern evangelism tactics have often led to shallow commitments to faith, where individuals mistakenly believe they are secure in their salvation based on emotional experiences rather than a deep, scripted understanding of the gospel.

The duo emphasizes the necessity of self-examination, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys. They utilize biblical texts to illustrate the dangers of being a false convert, noting how the New Testament is rife with warnings about self-deception and the importance of genuine repentance. Rapoport's anecdotes about evangelism experiences serve as cautionary tales, highlighting the need for churches to foster environments where authentic faith can flourish rather than simply counting numbers. Through their lively dialogue, listeners are encouraged to not only scrutinize their own beliefs but also engage in conversations about faith with others, challenging the status quo of mere nominalism in the church.

The episode is both informative and entertaining, merging deep theological insights with a warm, approachable style. Rapoport and Atkins remind their audience that understanding the gospel is a lifelong journey, one that requires diligence, humility, and a sincere heart. As they wrap up, they leave listeners with a powerful exhortation to seek after true conversion, making it clear that a relationship with Christ is not about ticking boxes, but about a transformative experience that changes lives.

Takeaways:

• The podcast episode dives deep into the topic of false converts, emphasizing the struggles evangelists face when engaging with individuals who mistakenly believe they are saved.
• Andrew Rapaport reflects on the historical context of false converts, discussing how the visible church has often been filled with those who do not truly believe.
• Listeners learn to differentiate between true salvation and mere profession of faith, highlighting the importance of self-examination in the Christian walk.
• The speakers stress the significance of understanding the gospel correctly, warning that many who claim to be Christians may not grasp the true implications of their faith.
• Through personal anecdotes, Rapaport illustrates the dangers of relying on superficial markers of faith, such as decision cards or emotional experiences, rather than genuine repentance.
• The episode concludes with a call to prioritize biblical sufficiency in understanding salvation, urging listeners to seek a genuine relationship with Christ rather than mere religious observance.

Mentioned in this episode:

What do We Believe by Andrew Rappaport

What Do They Believe

Today’s chat dives deep into the intricate dance of defining primary and secondary issues of faith, a topic more important than finding the right taco truck in a city full of them. Andrew Rapaport, the host, brings his A-game as he engages in a spirited discussion, shedding light on the critical distinctions between what believers should stand firm on versus what might be better left to the side. The duo tackles the common pitfall of majoring in minors while encouraging listeners to focus on the essentials that truly matter in their faith journey. They explore the nuances of how different interpretations can lead to spirited debates without losing sight of unity in Christ. As they navigate the complex web of doctrines, they serve a hearty reminder that understanding and grace should be at the forefront of our discussions, especially in an age where social media can turn a simple disagreement into a full-blown theological throwdown.

Takeaways:

• In the podcast, they dive deep into the distinctions between primary, secondary, and tertiary theological issues, emphasizing how misplacing these can lead to unnecessary conflicts within the Christian community.
• Andrew Rapaport shares his journey from a Jewish upbringing to becoming a pastor, illustrating how one's background can shape their theological perspectives and interactions with faith.
• The hosts discuss the importance of grace and understanding in theological debates, suggesting that Christians should strive for civility and openness when encountering differing views on faith.
• A lively discussion unfolds around the implications of charismatic gifts and their cessation, highlighting how these beliefs can significantly affect one's understanding of Scripture and church practices.
• The episode addresses the need for believers to differentiate between essential doctrines that are explicitly taught in Scripture and those that are more nuanced, which can lead to meaningful and respectful dialogue.
• Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their theological presuppositions and be open to re-evaluating their beliefs in light of Scripture, fostering a more inclusive and understanding church environment.

Mentioned in this episode:

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

Book a SfE speaker today

We have several speakers that can cover many different topics. Contact us today: [email protected]

In this episode, Andrew Rapoport dives deep into the murky waters of pastoral ethics in the age of social media, particularly in relation to the recent controversy surrounding Josh Buice. Listeners are in for a treat as Andrew shares personal experiences and insights many may not have heard before, shedding light on the often-hidden struggles of navigating public ministry amidst scandal. With a focus on biblical interpretation and application, he explores the ethical responsibilities of pastors and how social media can complicate the Christian witness. Their conversation touches on the emotional turmoil that arises when trusted leaders falter, emphasizing the importance of prayer and humility over judgment. Ultimately, Andrew calls for a collective reevaluation of how Christians interact with one another online, urging the community to prioritize reconciliation and understanding over division and criticism.

In a heartfelt dialogue, Andrew Rapoport and Greg Moore delve into the ethical dilemmas surrounding pastors and their use of social media, particularly in light of the recent scandal involving Josh Buice. The conversation unfolds with Andrew sharing his personal journey, filled with struggles against slander and misrepresentation from anonymous sources, showcasing the often unseen battles that accompany ministry. As they unpack the implications of public scrutiny, Andrew emphasizes the importance of accountability and humility, advocating for a culture where Christians uplift one another rather than succumb to the allure of gossip and judgment. His insights challenge listeners to reflect on their own attitudes toward fallen leaders, prompting a broader discourse on the need for grace and understanding within the church community. Through their banter, both speakers maintain a light-hearted tone. Yet, the gravity of their discussion is palpable, making it a poignant exploration of faith, forgiveness, and the ethics of digital communication.

Takeaways:

• In this podcast episode, Andrew Rappaport discusses the ethical responsibilities of pastors and Christians on social media, emphasizing the need for integrity and accountability in their online interactions.
• The conversation highlights how personal experiences, like Andrew's own struggles with slander, shape one's approach to handling public controversies within the church community.
• Listeners are encouraged to pray for those who have stumbled in their faith, such as Josh Buice, instead of rushing to judgment or criticism. This will foster a spirit of reconciliation among believers.
• Andrew shares that the importance of discernment in ministry is distinguishing between right and wrong and between right and almost right, urging caution in public discourse.
• The episode reminds us that social media platforms can amplify pride and tribalism among Christians, urging individuals to reflect on their intentions before posting.
• Ultimately, the dialogue aims to encourage a culture of prayer and support within the Christian community rather than one of condemnation and division, especially during times of crisis.

Links referenced in this episode:

• strivingforeeternity.org
• www.reformed.money
• dmwpodcast.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Striving for Eternity
• Dead Man Walking Podcast
• Dominion Wealth Strategists
• G3
• Josh Bice
• Steve Lawson
• Virgil Walker
• Tom Buck
• Scott Annual
• Wretched Radio
• Justin Peters
• Joel Webbing
• Adoniram Judson

Mentioned in this episode:

Book a SfE speaker today

We have several speakers that can cover many different topics. Contact us today: [email protected]

What do We Believe by Andrew Rappaport

What Do They Believe

The podcast delves into the complex discussion of whether the Roman Catholic Church can be classified as a cult, with Andrew Rappaport taking a firm stance on the matter. They assert that the Catholic Church's doctrines, particularly regarding justification and the authority of Scripture, present significant challenges to the fundamental teachings of Christianity, especially the idea of salvation by grace alone through faith alone. The conversation is lively and punctuated with witty banter as the speakers dissect various theological positions, historical contexts, and the implications of Church doctrines on personal faith. They explore contentious scriptural interpretations and engage in a spirited debate about the nature of good works within the framework of salvation. Throughout, there is a sense of camaraderie and a shared commitment to understanding the complexities of faith in a way that challenges listeners to think critically about their beliefs and the institutions they adhere to.

Takeaways:

• The discussion emphasized the distinction between faith and works, particularly in the context of Catholicism, where faith is often seen as insufficient without accompanying actions.
• Key points were raised regarding the significant variation in the interpretation of scripture between Catholic and Protestant beliefs, particularly in terms of authority and justification.
• The speakers analyzed the historical context of the Catholic Church's teachings and how they have evolved, impacting the perceptions of salvation and grace among its followers.
• A significant debate emerged regarding the role of works in salvation, highlighting the differences in understanding between Catholics and various Protestant denominations, particularly in relation to the concepts of grace and justification.
• The importance of clarity in language and definitions when discussing theological concepts was emphasized, highlighting the potential for misunderstandings that can arise between differing Christian traditions.
• The conversation highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue and examination of beliefs, as both sides presented their arguments on the nature of salvation and the church's role in interpreting scripture.

Links referenced in this episode:

• apologeticslive.com
• strivingforeternity.org
• 5solas.net
• 5solas.net/evangelism
• 5solas.net/catholicism

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Striving for Eternity Ministries
• Apologetics Live
• Living Waters
• MyPillow
• Squirrelly Joe's Coffee
• Matter of Theology
• Open Air Theology

Mentioned in this episode:

What Do They Believe

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

Social justice is the hot topic that gets tossed around like a beach ball at a summer picnic, but is it really the fresh concept many claim it to be? This dives into this debate, unraveling how the roots of social justice can be traced way back to Paul's day, showing that the struggle against such ideologies is not a new battle but an age-old one. As they unpack Colossians 2:8, the discussion shifts towards the dangers lurking within the church, warning against the alluring traps of philosophy and empty deception that can ensnare believers. Andrew does not hesitate to point fingers at how contemporary movements, likened to Gnosticism, subtly infiltrate churches, twisting the narrative to fit a human-centric worldview that leaves the truth behind. With clever quips and sharp insights, they emphasize that the real antidote to this captivating error lies not in engaging with these philosophies, but in grounding oneself in the unshakeable truth of Christ.

Takeaways:

• In discussing social justice, Andrew emphasizes that its roots can be traced back to historical contexts, revealing a long-standing debate that resonates today.
• Andrew humorously notes that while the sermon may seem light on notes, the depth of the conversation around social justice is anything but superficial.
• The podcast highlights a warning against the allure of false philosophies that can ensnare believers, urging a steadfast adherence to biblical truths instead.
• A critical point raised is that social justice, while often framed positively, might lead people astray from the core tenets of faith, posing a danger to spiritual integrity.
• Andrew provocatively questions whether contemporary discussions around social justice are truly new or merely a reiteration of age-old challenges faced by the church historically.
• Through witty banter, Andrew illustrates how modern philosophical debates echo ancient ones, particularly the Gnostic belief in superior knowledge, which can still mislead believers today.

Mentioned in this episode:

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

Diving right into the thick of it, the latest episode of the Rapp Report tackles the intersection of faith and law, a topic that’s as spicy as a Southern BBQ in July. Andrew Rapoport welcomes the insightful Davis Younts, a scholar blending his passion for Christianity with a sharp legal mind, to dissect the often contentious relationship between biblical principles and the American legal system. They kick off their chat by addressing the misconception that Christians should shy away from engaging with legal matters, especially regarding legislation that can impact the church and its congregants. Younts elaborates on how understanding faith and law is crucial, particularly in light of recent judicial decisions and the implications for religious freedom. With a sprinkle of humor and a hefty dose of thoughtful analysis, they navigate the complexities of how secular humanism reshapes societal norms and what that means for Christians called to stand firm in their beliefs amidst an ever-evolving legal landscape.

Takeaways:

• The podcast explores the intersection of faith and the legal system, emphasizing that Christians should not shy away from engaging in legal matters.
• The guest, Davis Younts, stresses the importance of understanding Christian principles in shaping America's legal framework, citing the Bible's historical influences on the Constitution.
• They discuss the challenges Christians face in a secular world, where legal battles often arise around religious freedom and moral values.
• The conversation highlights the need for Christians to participate actively in public life and the legal system rather than retreating into silence during times of cultural upheaval.

Mentioned in this episode:

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

What Do They Believe

The episode dives headfirst into the essential question of how everyday Christians can deepen their understanding of the Bible, particularly for those who may have attended church regularly but have yet to engage deeply with the scripture. Andrew Rapoport, the host, welcomes Cassian Bolino from the Biblically Speaking podcast, who shares her journey from being a "good Christian girl" to someone who craved a more profound relationship with God through His Word. They explore the idea that many believers settle for a surface-level faith, merely checking off boxes instead of truly seeking to know God on a personal level. The conversation cleverly juxtaposes the necessity of studying scripture with relatable anecdotes, illustrating that understanding the Bible isn't just for theologians—it's for everyone looking to cultivate a genuine relationship with the Creator. With a mix of humor and insightful discourse, the episode encourages listeners to ask questions, seek wisdom, and embrace the richness of biblical truths in their daily lives.

Andrew Rapoport, the host of the Rap Report, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Cassian Bolino, the creator of the Biblically Speaking Podcast. The episode dives deep into the challenge many Christians face: a disconnect between attending church regularly and truly understanding the Bible. Cassian candidly shares her journey from being a good Christian girl to realizing she was missing a profound understanding of her faith. She expresses her early struggles with biblical comprehension, despite diligently attending church and participating in Bible studies. The discussion highlights the importance of not only reading Scripture but also grasping its significance in daily life. Andrew and Cassian tackle the misconception that faith is merely about checking off boxes—attending services or reading verses without truly reflecting on them. They stress that true connection with God comes through a deep, ongoing relationship built by studying the Bible and understanding its context. Cassian's insights into how her curiosity led to her podcast serve as an encouragement for others who might feel lost in their faith journey, emphasizing that seeking knowledge and understanding is not just for theologians but for every believer seeking a genuine relationship with God.

Takeaways:

• Andrew Rapoport emphasizes that understanding the Bible is crucial for Christians, highlighting how many merely skim the surface without deep engagement.
• Cassian Bolino, the host of the Biblically Speaking Podcast, shares her journey of growing in faith despite feeling lost in her understanding of Christianity.
• The podcast stresses the importance of asking questions and seeking wisdom from God, rather than accepting teachings blindly without comprehension.
• Listeners are encouraged to not only attend church but to actively study the Bible and cultivate a deeper relationship with God through His Word.
• The discussion reveals that many Christians lack foundational biblical knowledge, leading to susceptibility to misleading doctrines and interpretations.
• The episode promotes the idea that engaging with different scholarly perspectives can enrich one’s understanding of Scripture and foster a more robust faith.

Links referenced in this episode:

• strivingforeternity.org
• logos.com
• strivingforeternity.org/coffee
• bibspeak.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Striving for Eternity
• Biblical Speaking Podcast
• Squirrelly Joe's
• Logos

Mentioned in this episode:

Book a SfE speaker today

We have several speakers that can cover many different topics. Contact us today: [email protected]

Hurricane Relief for the Brewster family

Andrew Rapoport and Aaron Brewster dive headfirst into the all-too-familiar quagmire of family strife, a topic that, let’s be honest, probably hits home for just about everyone. They kick off the conversation with a cheeky nod to the myth that no one has family issues, only to unravel the layers of conflict that can permeate even the most seemingly perfect households. Brewster introduces his book, *Quit: How to Stop Family Strife for Good*, which serves as a roadmap for navigating and resolving familial tension. The duo explores the nuanced causes of strife, emphasizing that it often stems from a mix of deliberate unbelief, immaturity, and those pesky human tendencies we all grapple with. With a blend of humor and heartfelt wisdom, they aim to equip listeners with practical, biblical solutions to not just alleviate strife, but to foster a more harmonious family environment, reminding everyone that while perfection is off the table, improvement is definitely within reach.

The conversation between Andrew Rapaport and Aaron Brewster dives deep into the often-overlooked topic of family strife, an issue that many might dismiss as non-existent in their own lives. Brewster humorously opens the discussion by suggesting that while everyone else's families might be in chaos, his listeners are likely to consider their own families perfect. This light-hearted banter sets the tone for a more serious exploration of the reality that many families do, in fact, experience some level of conflict, whether they recognize it or not. The discussion touches on Brewster's new book, "Quit: How to Stop Family Strife for Good," where he outlines a practical approach to understanding and alleviating familial tensions. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing the subtle forms of strife that can develop over time, comparing it to a frog slowly boiling in water, unaware of the rising temperature.

Brewster draws on his experience working with at-risk youth to illustrate how strife manifests in various forms within families. He presents a list of nine strife creators identified in Scripture, particularly from the Book of Proverbs, and invites listeners to reflect on their own behaviors and attitudes that may contribute to family discord. He suggests that understanding the underlying causes of strife—such as selfish desires and a lack of spiritual maturity—can empower families to address these issues effectively. The podcast does not shy away from the humbling reality that every family member can play a role in creating strife, and encourages listeners to take a hard look at their own contributions to family dynamics.

As the episode progresses, Andrew and Aaron discuss the importance of discipleship and community support within the church as a means to foster healthier family relationships. Brewster emphasizes that while the goal is to reduce strife, it is essential to acknowledge that complete peace may not be achievable this side of heaven, due to the inherent sinfulness of human nature. However, he assures listeners that there is hope through the teachings found in the Bible and practical steps outlined in his book. The conversation wraps up with encouragement to seek help through biblical counseling and to engage with church communities that prioritize truth and mutual support, ultimately framing the discussion as both a serious examination of familial strife and a pathway to greater spiritual growth and connection.

Takeaways:

• In the podcast, they humorously acknowledge that while no one has family strife, the reality is that many families do, often because they're unaware of the subtle issues simmering under the surface.
• Aaron Brewster emphasizes that family strife is often rooted in personal sin and immaturity, suggesting that even small conflicts can lead to larger issues if not addressed.
• The discussion around the book 'Quit' explores how understanding and identifying strife creators can help families navigate their conflicts more effectively and with grace.
• Listeners are encouraged to engage in discipleship and community support as a means to combat family strife, highlighting the importance of biblical counseling and accountability.
• The host and guest use humor to underline serious points, like comparing family issues to boiling frogs, to stress the importance of recognizing and addressing underlying problems before they escalate.
• Brewster's book offers practical insights and QR codes linking to deeper resources, making it a handy tool for families seeking to reduce strife and promote harmony in their homes.

Links referenced in this episode:

• strivingforeternity.org
• evermindministries.org
• truthloveparent.com
• squirrellyjoes.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Striving for Eternity
• Evermind Ministries
• Truth Love Parent
• Squirrelly Joe's Coffee
• MyPillow

Navigating the often murky waters of church leadership and the potential for harm within Christian communities is the focal point of today’s discussion. Andrew kicks things off by asking a poignant question: Have you ever felt misrepresented or harmed by church leaders? As the conversation unfolds, they dive deep into the patterns of behavior that can lead to hurt, particularly how social justice ideologies can infiltrate church doctrine, causing disillusionment for many faithful congregants. With Pastor Jeff sharing his own experiences of being censured and ultimately ousted from his denomination, listeners are encouraged to recognize they are not alone in their struggles. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt reminder that, despite the challenges faced within the church, maintaining a commitment to truth and integrity is paramount for both leaders and congregants alike.

Takeaways:

• The podcast dives deep into the theme of how church leaders can sometimes hurt their congregants, challenging the notion that such behavior is unexpected in Christian environments.
• Pastor Jeff reveals his experience with the Evangelical Free Church, detailing how social justice ideologies infiltrated church governance and practices, affecting the church's integrity.
• A key focus of the discussion is the importance of due process and truth in church discipline, highlighting how many Christians overlook these principles in favor of expediency.
• Listeners are encouraged to develop thick skin in the face of adversity and to trust in God's sovereignty when facing unjust accusations or slander within the church community.

Links referenced in this episode:

• strivingforeternity.org
• cornerstonesj.org
• strivingforeternity.org/coffee
• Woke-Free Church

Mentioned in this episode:

What Do They Believe

What do We Believe by Andrew Rappaport

Rapp Report episode 331

Head coverings have emerged as a hot topic in recent discussions, as highlighted by Dale Partridge, who notes that this issue has not really been a point of contention for centuries but is now gaining traction. The conversation pivots around Dale Partridge's book, "A Cover for Glory," which argues that head coverings were once a universal practice among women in the church and have become obscured in modern times, particularly due to the influence of feminism. Andrew Rappaport engages in a spirited dialogue with Partridge, exploring the theological implications and historical contexts of head coverings, particularly in light of 1 Corinthians 11. They delve into the nuances of authority, gender roles, and the significance of submission in the Christian faith, suggesting that the resurgence of interest in head coverings may reflect a deeper craving for biblical order and masculinity in a culture increasingly at odds with traditional values. Ultimately, the episode serves as a platform for listeners to reconsider their understanding of head coverings and the broader implications for church life and gender dynamics today.

Takeaways:

• Head coverings have emerged as a controversial topic in contemporary Christian discourse, particularly as cultural dynamics shift and traditional practices are reexamined.
• Dale Partridge's book, 'A Cover for Glory', argues that the historical practice of women wearing head coverings has roots that span across many centuries and cultures.
• The discussion around head coverings is not merely about physical adornment but is deeply intertwined with theological concepts of authority and gender roles in the church.
• There's a noticeable trend among younger Christians moving towards traditionalism, including the practice of head coverings, as a response to modern feminism and cultural shifts in gender perception.

Links referenced in this episode:

• relearn.org
• strivingforeternity.org

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Mentioned in this episode:

Bible Interpretation made Easy seminar

Hurricane Relief for the Brewster family