Reformed Presbyterian Persecution: Interview with Samuel Ketcham

Summary

In this episode of the Old Paths podcast, hosts Michael Spangler and Cody Justice engage with Samuel Ketchum, a minister in the RPCNA, discussing his journey to ministry, the challenges he has faced, particularly regarding race and theology, and the charges brought against him by his presbytery. Ketchum shares his insights on the importance of biblical preaching, the current state of the church, and the implications of his trial set for January 24th. The conversation notes some of the concrete charges brought against Ketcham, emphasizes the need for accountability and truth in ministry, as well as the complexities surrounding race in the church today.

Takeaways

• Samuel Ketchum shares his background and journey to ministry.
• He discusses the challenges he faced in his early ministry experiences.
• Ketchum highlights the importance of preaching and its current challenges in the church.
• The conversation delves into the intersection of race and theology in Ketchum's writings.
• Ketchum explains the charges brought against him by the RPCNA.
• He reflects on the implications of these charges for his ministry and the church.
• The discussion emphasizes the need for biblical fidelity in preaching.
• Ketchum expresses his desire for a more honest conversation about race in the church.
• The trial date is set for January 24th, and Ketchum prepares to defend his views.
• The conversation concludes with a call for accountability in ministry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Samuel Ketcham

04:03 Journey to Ministry and Early Experiences

09:14 Challenges in Ordination and Preaching Philosophy

14:53 The Role of Preaching in the Church Today

19:52 Transitioning Between Denominations and Racial Awareness

25:08 The Impact of Race on Faith and Community

30:06 Current Trial and Charges in the RPCNA

35:46 Understanding the Charges of Sin

43:31 The Role of Scripture in Church Authority

51:40 Critique of Judicial Processes in the Church

57:01 Historical Context of Abolitionism and Its Implications

01:03:23 The Importance of Biblical Foundation in Charges

01:07:43 The Role of Historical Context in Modern Debates

01:10:00 Vows and Commitments in Religious Institutions

01:12:41 Personal Experiences and Reactions to Controversy

01:14:41 The Intersection of Race and Theology

01:18:57 Egalitarianism and Its Challenges

01:20:20 Public Perception and Accountability in Ministry

01:22:01 The Nature of Presbyterian Judicial Processes

01:24:53 The Importance of Honest Discourse in Theology

01:33:07 Next Steps in the Journey of Faith and Accountability

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