Rick Warren needs very little introduction. The planter and pastor of Saddleback Church in Orange County, California for 43 years, Warren is widely considered one of the most influential spiritual leaders in America. His book The Purpose-Driven Life has been translated into 137 languages and sold more than 50 million copies.

And yet, on February 21, the Southern Baptist Convention disfellowshipped Saddleback Church due to their hiring of a female teaching pastor.

On this episode of The Russell Moore Show, Warren and Moore discuss the SBC's decision and how it reflects on the convention's response to sexual abuse. They talk about women in ministry, how to determine primary and secondary theological issues, and what healthy pastoral transitions may look like. And they share profound reasons for hope when it comes to the gospel going forth among the nations—even in a time when many fear Christianity's influence is diminishing.

Tune in for an episode that candidly acknowledges the difficulties of Christian life and ministry while celebrating the goodness of God.

Resources mentioned in this episode include:

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“The Russell Moore Show” is a production of Christianity Today 

Executive Producers: Erik Petrik, Russell Moore, and Mike Cosper 

Host: Russell Moore 

Producer: Ashley Hales 

Associate Producers: Abby Perry and Azurae Phelps 

CT Administration: Christine Kolb 

Social Media: Kate Lucky 

Director of Operations for CT Media: Matt Stevens 

Production Assistance: coreMEDIA

Audio Engineer: Kevin Duthu 

Coordinator: Beth Grabenkort 

Video Producer: John Roland 

Theme Song: “Dusty Delta Day” by Lennon Hutton

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