Level Paths

The Appalachian people often encounter prejudices in their lived experiences. Stereotypes in popular culture at large cast a shadow. Dr. Matt and Rex show that America’s “contemporary ancestors” have long contributed to and continue to enhance the value of God’s people and God’s world.

Rex and Dr. Matt talk with Jonathan Buckner, founding member of the bluegrass gospel band Chosen Road, about the history, meaning, and hope of music in Appalachia.

Dr. Matt and Rex close out 2022 with a conversation about Christmas traditions in Appalachia. Happy Advent and Christmas to all! Come Lord Jesus!

Dr. Matt Shamblin, TSBC Appalachian Research Fellow, and Dr. Mark Phillips, TSBC VP of Academics, talk with Dr. Desmond Barrett, Pastor of Summit Church of the Nazarene in Boyd County, KY about the history and impact of the Nazarene Church in Appalachia.

Dr. Matt and Pres. Rex explore evangelism in Acts 4-5 with a view toward contextualizing evangelism in Appalachia. Evangelism methods and resources are discussed.

Dr. Matt and Rex talk shop on Christian leadership and how the religious landscape of a contemporary Appalachian context requires adaptive leaders.

Dr. Matt and Rex talk about the painful realities of ministry as contextualized in Appalachia and explore why there's hope to press on toward Christ.

Biblical illiteracy is an increasing problem in the America culture and church. Dr. Matt and Rex welcome Dr. Brian J. Vickers to discuss this problem in Appalachia.

Dr. Matt and Rex find revitalizing hope for declining churches in Appalachia in a conversation with Pastor Jason McClanahan.

Dr. Matt and Rex welcome Dr. Elijah Hixson (CSNTM) and Dr. Peter Gurry (Phoenix Seminary), who are co-editors of Myths and Mistakes in New Testament Textual Criticism. Join the conversation about journey of the Bible from original text through the copying process to translations and the unique experiences of encountering the Bible in Appalachian contexts, particularly the issue of KJV-Onlyism.