Some things in Scripture just aren’t black and white. Halloween is one of those things. How should a Christian approach Halloween and other holidays? What does Scripture say to us about Halloween? In this episode we look to help you answer those questions.

Big Question: Can something that possibly has pagan origins be redeemed and practiced by Christians?

Connect with our hosts:

Dr. Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.
Facebook: Phillip Pointer
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Twitter: Phillip L. Pointer

John C. Richards, Jr., M.Div.
Facebook: John C. Richards, Jr.
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Twitter: John C. Richards, Jr.

Some things in Scripture just aren’t black and white. Gambling is one of those things. How should a Christian approach gambling? What does Scripture say to us about gambling? In this episode we look to help you answer those questions.

Connect with our hosts:

Dr. Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.
Facebook: Phillip Pointer
Instagram: Phillip L. Pointer
Twitter: Phillip L. Pointer

John C. Richards, Jr., M.Div.
Facebook: John C. Richards, Jr.
Instagram: John C. Richards, Jr.
Twitter: John C. Richards, Jr.

Some things in Scripture just aren’t black and white. Smoking weed is one of those things. How should a Christian approach smoking weed? What does Scripture say to us about smoking weed? In this episode we look to help you answer those questions.

Biggest question: “Didn’t God give to Adam every tree, plant, and herb for his good? Is marijuana really bad if God created it and gave it to Adam?”

Why talk about this? Survey of 19-30 year olds in 2019, revealed that annual marijuana use (at least once a year) was at 43% for men and 40% for women. The church can’t ignore this reality.

Connect with our hosts:

Dr. Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.
Facebook: Phillip Pointer
Instagram: Phillip L. Pointer
Twitter: Phillip L. Pointer

John C. Richards, Jr., M.Div.
Facebook: John C. Richards, Jr.
Instagram: John C. Richards, Jr.
Twitter: John C. Richards, Jr.

Some things in Scripture just aren’t black and white. Drinking alcohol is one of those things. How should a Christian approach drinking alcohol? What does Scripture say to us about drinking? In this episode we look to help you answer those questions.

Connect with our hosts:

Dr. Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.
Facebook: Phillip Pointer
Instagram: Phillip L. Pointer
Twitter: Phillip L. Pointer

John C. Richards, Jr., M.Div.
Facebook: John C. Richards, Jr.
Instagram: John C. Richards, Jr.
Twitter: John C. Richards, Jr.

Manifestation, the ability to “speak things into existence,” has become more and more popular in our culture. It has even become a practice for Christians who believe there is biblical support for it. But what does the Bible really say about manifestation. In this episode, called “It’s Above Me Now,” we will explore the history of the practice and offer biblical advice to listeners.

Connect with our hosts:

Dr. Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.
Facebook: Phillip Pointer
Instagram: Phillip L. Pointer
Twitter: Phillip L. Pointer

John C. Richards, Jr., M.Div.
Facebook: John C. Richards, Jr.
Instagram: John C. Richards, Jr.
Twitter: John C. Richards, Jr.

Humanity has been enamored with the heavens since the beginning of time. Since then, many have tried to read (or in some instances wish upon) the stars in the heavens. How has this practice evolved into what we see today? Today, millions of people practice this form of “spiritual practice.” Including many Christians. In this episode we’ll look at horoscopes and astrology and how they have become normal practices for some believers.

Connect with our hosts:

Dr. Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.
Facebook: Phillip Pointer
Instagram: Phillip L. Pointer
Twitter: Phillip L. Pointer

John C. Richards, Jr., M.Div.
Facebook: John C. Richards, Jr.
Instagram: John C. Richards, Jr.
Twitter: John C. Richards, Jr.

Young Christians are beginning to use crystal healing methods and practices as part of their “spiritual disciplines.” Is the practice acceptable for believers? Why are younger Christians looking to these practices to supplement their normal faith practices? In this episode, we will explore the history of the practice and look at what Scripture says about it.

Connect with our hosts:

Dr. Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.
Facebook: Phillip Pointer
Instagram: Phillip L. Pointer
Twitter: Phillip L. Pointer

John C. Richards, Jr., M.Div.
Facebook: John C. Richards, Jr.
Instagram: John C. Richards, Jr.
Twitter: John C. Richards, Jr.

Christians, and Black Christians in particular, are very aware of their history and the impact of those who have gone before us. This had led many to “call on the ancestors” in their time of need. In this episode, we’ll explore the practice and discuss biblically appropriate ways to honor our heritage and legacy.

Connect with our hosts:

Dr. Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.
Facebook: Phillip Pointer
Instagram: Phillip L. Pointer
Twitter: Phillip L. Pointer

John C. Richards, Jr., M.Div.
Facebook: John C. Richards, Jr.
Instagram: John C. Richards, Jr.
Twitter: John C. Richards, Jr.

In this inaugural episode, we begin a five-part series on Knockoff Spirituality. We discuss the history of divination as we know it and what the Bible says about these practices. We’re going in depth about Tarot cards and palm reading and how it affects your spiritual life.

Connect with our hosts:

Dr. Phillip L. Pointer, Sr.
Facebook: Phillip Pointer
Instagram: Phillip L. Pointer
Twitter: Phillip L. Pointer

John C. Richards, Jr., M.Div.
Facebook: John C. Richards, Jr.
Instagram: John C. Richards, Jr.
Twitter: John C. Richards, Jr.

Thank you for connecting with The Growth Factor Podcast, a broadcast ministry of Saint Mark Baptist Church.

Co-hosts Dr. Phillip L. Pointer, Sr. and Pastor John C. Richards, Jr., JD, will help you understand the scripture and its relevance in contemporary affairs.  Learn how to read it and apply it to your life in practical ways. Let the Bible guide how you live today.  At Saint Mark Baptist Church You.GROW.Here.