The City of God

In this episode of the City of God Podcast, Rob Pacienza and John Rabe talk with Dr. John Currie, Professor of Pastoral Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary. They explore Dr. Currie’s book, The Pastor as Leader, and discuss the challenges pastors face in connecting preaching with leadership. From the dangers of people-pleasing to the necessity of expository preaching, they cover what it means for pastors to lead biblically and faithfully in today’s church context.

In this poignant episode of the City of God podcast, we reflect on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th attacks on Israel. Host Rob Pacienza is joined by an insightful panel: Shannon Harmeling, IDF Sergeant Major Doron Keidar, Sergeant Major Chaim Malespin, and Pastor Brad Carignan. Together, they discuss the ongoing impact of the conflict, personal experiences from the front lines, the narratives surrounding Israel's struggle against Hamas, and how the Church should respond when it comes to Israel. Join us for a powerful conversation that seeks to illuminate the truth in these challenging times.

Todays Guests:

IDF Sgt. Major Doron Keidar, Founder of CryForZion - CryforZion.com -

IDF Sgt. Major Chaim Malespin, Co-Founder, Aliyah Return Center - Aliyahreturncenter.com

Pastor Brad Carignan, Uncommon Church - UncommonChurch.tv

Shannon Harmeling, Coral Ridge Ministries - [email protected]

In this episode of the City of God Podcast, we welcome Jordan Raynor, author of The Sacredness of Secular Work and a leading voice in the faith and work movement. Together, we explore the eternal value of everyday work, why many believers overlook its significance, and how our vocations can reveal God’s kingdom here on earth. Jordan also shares practical strategies for leaving an eternal legacy through work and challenges modern perspectives on success, work, and faith.

In this episode of The City of God Podcast, we’re joined by Ike Reeder, the President of Birmingham Theological Seminar. Ike reflects on the legacy of his father, the late Harry Reeder.

They explore Harry’s profound impact as a pastor and his steadfast commitment to the sufficiency of God’s Word, comparing challenges faced by the church today to those of past generations. The conversation delves into Harry’s enduring influence, his leadership in training future church leaders, and Ike’s work at Birmingham Theological Seminary, including the launch of the Harry Reeder Center for Pastoral Studies.

In this episode of The City of God, we’re joined by Dr. Phil Ryken, theologian, Presbyterian minister, and president of Wheaton College. We dive into the state of Christian higher education and the critical role of teaching a Biblical worldview. Dr. Ryken shares insights on the challenges faced in academia today, the cultural consequences of losing a Biblical foundation, and his experience succeeding James Montgomery Boice. Plus, we explore whether we’re raising the next generation of great Christian leaders.

The City of God Families is a short, monthly podcast for the entire family to listen to together with the hope that your family will continue the discussion where this podcast leaves off. On this episode, we discuss Peer Pressure

On this episode of The City of God Families Pastor Rob Pacienza addresses peer pressure, encouraging Christians to resist conformity by renewing their minds through Scripture, prayer, and community. Drawing on Romans 12:2, he emphasizes living "set apart" from worldly values while staying engaged as positive influences. Families are encouraged to openly discuss peer pressure and stand firm in faith, supported by Christian community and God’s guidance.

In this episode of City of God, we welcome George Grant, Pastor of Parish Presbyterian Church and Director of King’s Meadow Study Center, to discuss the urgent need for Christian higher education. We explore the Church’s role in founding universities, the Christian roots of schools like Princeton and Harvard, and how they've drifted from their origins. George also explains cultural Marxism and its impact on education, and we reflect on the consequences of removing God from public schools.

In this episode of The City of God, we sit down with Aldo Leon, pastor of Pinelands Presbyterian Church, to discuss “Christian nationalism”. We explore how many Christians are labeled as nationalists, often unfairly, while they seek to influence culture. Aldo dives into the importance of defining terms, examining history, and upholding Christ's kingship, showing that Christian nationalism is a historic position rooted in longstanding traditions, not a modern trend.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Richard Phillips, Senior Minister of the historic Second Presbyterian Church in Greenville, SC. Dr. Phillips reflects on the enduring legacies of Dr. D. James Kennedy and James Montgomery Boice, discusses the challenges facing the Church today, and shares his thoughts on the current state of the PCA. Plus, as a former West Point instructor, he offers a unique perspective on America's military. Don't miss this compelling episode!

On this episode, we sit down with Mat Staver, founder and Chairman of Liberty Counsel, to discuss the ongoing fight for life after the reversal of Roe. We explore the current legislative landscape, ongoing cases, and the critical role Christians play in defending the unborn. We also dive into gender issues, parental rights, and the battle to protect free speech and religious liberty. Mat shares his insights on how Christians can engage the culture and stand firm in their faith.