Welcome back to The Church, the Court, and the Culture, where I examine the intersection of religion, race, and law in American society. In this episode, I dive into three moments that reveal how theology, protest, and politics collide in today’s public square.

* Steven Furtick’s “Cocaine” CommentI begin with a moment that raised eyebrows: Pastor Steven Furtick’s offhand remark comparing his spiritual high to being on cocaine. I reflect on why language like this matters, especially from the pulpit, and how it reflects a broader trend of sensationalism in modern church culture.

* Two White Pastors Arrested for Praying Over a BLM MuralNext, we turn to a powerful act of protest. Two white pastors were arrested for kneeling and praying over a Black Lives Matter mural. I explore why their actions matter—not just as a political statement, but as a model of moral courage. We talk about what it means to stand up to bullies, even when it costs you something.

* Florida’s Vaccine Rollback and the Misuse of God-TalkFinally, I express my deep frustration with Florida’s recent decision to eliminate all mandated vaccines. The state’s Surgeon General likened vaccine mandates to slavery and invoked God to justify the move. I break down why this rhetoric is not only historically inaccurate but spiritually manipulative—and why we must be vigilant when God’s name is used to mask harmful policy.

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