Founders Baptist Church

In this episode of the Straight Truth Podcast, Dr. Richard Caldwell joins host Dr. Josh Philpot to discuss the growing confusion around immigration and how Christians should rightly think about it from a biblical perspective. Many today point to verses such as Deuteronomy 10 or claim that "Jesus was a refugee" to support open borders or to oppose immigration law. But are these claims consistent with the teaching of Scripture? Dr. Caldwell walks us through what the Bible says about nations, borders, and the role of government. Drawing from both Old and New Testament texts, he explains why national identity is not unbiblical and how God's establishment of borders is part of His sovereign design. He also clarifies the difference between Israel's unique calling in the Old Testament and modern nations today, warning against misusing Scripture to support political ideologies. This conversation also addresses the Christian's personal responsibility to love our neighbor—including those who are immigrants—while not disregarding the law. Dr. Caldwell reminds us that love and law are not opposed, and that true compassion never promotes lawlessness. Instead, Christians must strive to be faithful witnesses of the gospel, demonstrating care and concern for the image-bearers around us, but always in ways that honor God's Word. Whether you're wrestling with questions about immigration policy, or simply seeking clarity on what the Bible says, this episode offers a Christ-centered, Scripture-driven response. The goal is not political, but theological—to think rightly, love well, and remain anchored in biblical truth amid cultural confusion.

In this episode, Dr. Richard Caldwell explores what it means to live with Christian boldness when faithfulness to Christ becomes costly. Whether facing workplace mandates, family tensions, or cultural rejection, believers must decide when to speak, how to speak, and when to remain silent. True courage is not loud defiance but Spirit-filled loyalty to Christ and His Word. Drawing from Scripture and pastoral wisdom, the discussion helps Christians navigate difficult moments with humility, conviction, and compassion, without compromising the truth.

This episode addresses the recent fall of a prominent pastor and the cancellation of the G3 Conference, using it as a sobering example of the dangers of online anonymity, slander, and spiritual ambition. Dr. Richard Caldwell emphasizes the need for accountability, self-examination, and pastoral integrity. With humility and clarity, he challenges both leaders and believers to guard their hearts and speech, reminding us that faithfulness to Christ requires holiness in both public and private life.

Many Christians feel isolated even in faithful church attendance. In this episode, we explore why believers struggle with loneliness in the body of Christ and how contentment in Him leads to meaningful, Christ-centered friendships. Learn the biblical difference between fellowship and friendship and how to pursue deep connections in humility, love, and faith.

In Revelation 9:1–12, we witness the terrifying reality of God's judgment as the fifth trumpet sounds and demonic forces are unleashed from the abyss. This sermon explores the symbolic yet literal nature of this judgment, where demonic tormentors—under divine restraint—are permitted to afflict unbelieving humanity for five months. Pastor Caldwell unpacks the vision in four parts: the pit opened, the pursuit of death denied, the prisoners described, and the proclamation of more woes to come. This vivid passage reminds us that spiritual realities are real, judgment is certain, and Christ alone delivers from the domain of darkness.

What does it mean to be faithful in ministry—and why does it matter? In this sermon from 1 Corinthians 4, we learn that true faithfulness is not measured by numbers, fame, or influence, but by how we steward what God has entrusted to us. Ministry begins with a right view of our identity—as servants and stewards of God's truth—and a clear sense of our accountability to Christ alone. Drawing from the Apostle Paul's example, this message outlines five essential marks of faithfulness: seeking Christ's approval, avoiding worldly comparisons, persevering through all seasons of ministry, modeling consistency, and confronting sin with courage. For every pastor, teacher, and believer in service to Christ, this passage provides a sobering and clarifying standard: faithfulness is what God requires, and it is what He will reward.