Stand in the Gap Today 10-22-15

Guest, Jim O’Bryon, joins the program to discuss the Bengazi hearings taking place this week.  What should the consequences be for the negligence, fraud, obstruction of justice and lies which resulted in the death of four members of our diplomat corps?

Stand in the Gap Radio 10-21-15

Dr. Jimmy DeYoung, Host of Prophecy Today, joins the program to discuss the growing tensions between Israel and the Palestinian’s over the Temple Mount. What’s fueling the increased violence and what does the Bible predict will happen to this sacred site in the future?

Stand in the Gap Radio 10/20/15

Coach Joe Kennedy followed his usual post-game ritual of thanking God for safety, and the opportunity to play great football with great teams. But his school district has forbidden him to do this, and now he must courageously defend his right to pray! Today’s program will discuss this incident and more as we consider the looming “criminalization of Christians”. Let’s rally around those like Coach Kennedy, who are indeed “Fighting the Good Fight!”

Stand in the Gap Today 10/19/15

Did you know that there is now a paid position within the Obama DOJ that will be monitoring Christian, conservative groups like FRC, AFA, and ANY organization that stands where God stands on the issues of human sexuality, the sacredness of life, and against organizations like Planned Parenthood? This program deals with this issue and features an update from Andy Wells on Saturday’s “We Stand with God” rally in NC.

Stand in the Gap Today 10/16/15

Today, hosts Sam, Gary, and Dave take a look at the latest headlines from a biblical and constitutional point of view.  What’s happening in Israel with the rise of recent Palestinian riots?  Who will become the next candidate for Speaker of the House?  Why was Pledge of Allegiance banned by a Hillsboro Community College in Tampa, FL, and what does “democrat socialist” Bernie Sanders really stand for?

American Pastors Network: 6 Reasons Pastors Struggle with Preaching to Impact the Culture

Addressing difficult cultural issues from the pulpit can be daunting for pastors. But bringing these matters to congregations is more important than ever. “One of the goals of the American Pastors Network is to continually encourage pastors to be effective ‘salt and light’ in this dark world and preach the ‘whole counsel of God’. There is no greater calling for a ‘Minister of God’ and no greater responsibility to God’s people.”-Sam Rohrer, APN President

Why do pastors shy away from addressing such pressing matters like same-sex marriage, politics, homosexuality, abortion, adultery, pornography and other hot-button issues?

Here’s six reasons:

  1. Fear of controversy or pushback from those in the pews if biblical principles are applied to the issues of the day.
  2. Negative theological training regarding talking about impacting the culture or discussion of anything regarding civil government or politics.
  3. Unjustified fear of losing their 501(c)(3) status.
  4. Being unaware of the historical role of pastors in the history of America.
  5. Believing that the primary purpose for preaching is limited to “preaching the Gospel” rather than training and “making disciples.”
  6. Having more of a fear of man rather than a fear of God.

Research has shown that pastors are purposefully skirting some controversial topics when preparing their messages for the pulpit, but churches and pastors must address these issues, no matter how uncomfortable it might be.

Last summer, George Barna, founder of the Barna Group, shared research that found that a vast majority of theologically conservative pastors believe the Bible speaks to societal issues, but fewer than 10 percent of these pastors are teaching people what the Bible says on these topics.

The research, conducted through the American Culture and Faith Institute, asked pastors across the country about their beliefs regarding the relevancy of Scripture to societal, moral and political issues, and the content of their sermons in light of their beliefs. Barna stated that many pastors are afraid to get involved in political issues because of the controversy it might create. And, he added, “Controversy keeps people from being in the seats, controversy keeps people from giving money, from attending programs.”

 

Stand in the Gap Radio 10/15/15

On today’s program, Scott Lively-President of Abiding Truth Ministries, talks about role reversals as America embraces homosexuality-and Russia bans gay propaganda and more. Speaking from his own experiences abroad, you won’t want to miss this engaging discussion!

Stand in the Gap Today 10/14/15

Should Christians spend time considering what Democrat candidates are saying? Today’s program takes a quick look at the Presidential polls, and welcomes guest, Andy Wells, a member of the steering committee for “We Stand With God” rallies. These events are being conducted on the steps of state capitols all across the nation!