What Happens When Foreign Wars Get a Bible Verse?

This week, Dillon’s seat is being held down by author and theologian Matthew J. Distefano, who joins Desimber to unpack a week where geopolitics apparently came with a side of Revelation commentary.

First up: the newly launched war with Iran, which has already escalated across the region after coordinated U.S.– Israel strikes triggered retaliation and widening conflict in the Middle East. But the real theological curveball? Reports from service members say some commanders are telling troops the conflict is part of “God’s divine plan” and tied to biblical end-times prophecy. In other words, apparently foreign policy is now being drafted somewhere between the Pentagon and the Book of Revelation.

Then we turn to the latest primary results, including the closely watched Texas Senate primary, where state Rep. James Talarico emerged as the Democratic nominee after defeating Rep. Jasmine Crockett in a race that drew national attention and could reshape the political map in a state long considered untouchable for Democrats. If Texas starts shifting, the political earthquake will be felt all the way to Washington.

We’ll dig into the uncomfortable question underneath it all: What happens when Christian Nationalism starts shaping foreign policy, war narratives, and electoral politics? Also joining the conversation is Matthew J. Distefano, author and voice behind some of the sharpest critiques of toxic theology today.

Together we’ll explore how faith can inspire justice and compassion — without turning geopolitics into a prophecy chart. Because when politicians start talking about Armageddon like it’s a strategic objective, somebody probably needs to open the Bible and remind them what Jesus actually said about peace.

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Dillon & Desimber are sitting down with author and podcaster Stuart Delony, creator of Snarky Faith and writer of the delightfully timely new book The Tribulation Survival Guide — because apparently, we’re all living in the group project from Revelation and nobody agreed to the assignment.

Stuart has built a following calling out toxic theology, spiritual manipulation, and end-times fear-mongering with wit, wisdom, and just enough holy sarcasm to keep it honest. In this episode, we’ll unpack why so many Christians are addicted to apocalyptic panic, what it actually means to survive spiritual chaos with your faith intact, and how snark might just be a spiritual gift.

If you’ve ever wondered whether we’re in the tribulation or just in late-stage capitalism with a Bible verse slapped on it — this one’s for you.

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This week, the God Squad sits down with Author and Pastor Dr. Kevin Young, whose insightful new book "Reconstruct Your Faith: An Ancient Relationship for a Modern World" flips the script on everything we thought we knew about faith, doubt, and what it actually looks like to follow Jesus in an age of distraction and disillusionment. Whether you’ve ever wondered how ancient wisdom still applies to your daily walk, or you’re wrestling with questions no one seems brave enough to ask, Kevin brings clarity, courage, and a whole lot of compassion to the table.

Dillon & Desimber dig into Kevin’s journey, why reconstructing faith doesn’t mean abandoning it, and how we can recover a faith that grows us instead of numbing us. Expect sharp conversation, deep reflection, and the kind of honest theological dialogue you won’t hear anywhere else.

Tune in every Thursday at 8 PM EST — if you’ve ever felt like your faith needs more truth and less hype, this episode is for you.

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This week's episode dives headfirst into the congressional hearing where Pam Bondi somehow managed to answer questions without actually answering… well… anything — especially when it comes to accountability for victims connected to the long-shadowed Jeffrey Epstein scandal and the ever-mysterious “files that apparently live in the witness protection program.” Expect receipts, righteous side-eye, and a reality check on what justice should look like when truth isn’t treated like classified gossip.

But it’s not all holy frustration — the crew flips the script in Religion Done Right, spotlighting pastors and faith leaders who are actually walking out the teachings of Christ: serving communities, protecting the vulnerable, and reminding folks that the Gospel was never meant to be weaponized for power or profit.

If you like your theology with backbone, your politics with accountability, and your faith with a side of humor sharp enough to cut through hypocrisy — this is your Thursday night service.

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Tonight’s headlines remind us that theology isn’t just what we preach, it’s what we practice. When the Gospel confronts power, somebody has to decide whether love or law will have the last word. This week, we dive into the week’s headlines through a Gospel lens, asking not just what happened, but what would Jesus say about it? From immigration crackdowns and global conflict to institutional religion controversies, tonight’s stories reveal where politics, power, and piety collide… and where theology gets twisted along the way.

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This week on The God Squad, Dillon & Desimber take on a news cycle that feels more ruthless than righteous. From immigration raids involving children and manipulated images of protestors to global power plays and faith leaders pushing back, we put today’s headlines on trial against the teachings of Jesus. Join us Thursday at 8:00pm EST for Scripture, truth-telling, and a necessary reality check on what’s being done in God’s name—and what absolutely isn’t.

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This week, Dillon & Desimber tackle a wild week in the headlines — from civil liberties and immigration enforcement to truth distortion and the state of the church itself. We’re sifting through seven major stories to see where today’s headlines collide with the Gospel call to love our neighbors and follow Christ. Buckle up: truth, Scripture, and holy side-eye are coming!

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This week has been a theological cage match no one asked for — but everyone’s watching.... This week on The God Squad, Dillon & Desimber take on the headlines lighting up the nation, from protests and power plays to the growing tension between justice and compassion. What happens when political authority collides with gospel ethics — and which side does Jesus actually take? Join us live every Thursday at 8:00pm EST for faith, facts, and a little holy side-eye.

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Join hosts Dillon Naber Cruz and Pastor Desimber Rose every Thursday at 8 PM EST for a timely and thought-provoking episode of The God Squad.

In the wake of recent events making headlines nationally and globally—from unfolding developments in Venezuela to ongoing tensions and reckonings here in Minnesota—this conversation could not be more pertinent. We’re honored to welcome Keith Giles and Matthew Distefano of Quoir Publishing to discuss their new release, Trump vs. Jesus, a book challenging readers to wrestle with faith, power, politics, and the teachings of Christ in turbulent times. 

📖 Get the Book! https://www.amazon.com/Trump-vs-Jesus... 

Join us for honest dialogue, moral reflection, and faithful engagement on #TheGodSquadPodcast

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Join hosts Dillon & Desimber for a special holiday episode of The God Squad as we welcome Rabbi Seth Goldstein of Temple Beth Hatfiloh (Olympia, WA)!

We’re diving into the history, practice, and purpose of Hanukkah — from the origin story to the meaning of the menorah, modern celebrations, and why this festival of light still speaks powerfully today.

Whether you celebrate or you’re just curious, pull up a seat. It’s going to be warm, wise, joyful, and full of good conversation. 

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