The Roys Report

Lance Ford, Director of Restoration Resources at The Roys Report, delves deep into Willow Creek's complex legacy as it marks its 50th year. He explores how the church’s seeker-sensitive model revolutionized modern church design while also highlighting its darker impacts, including leadership idolization and spiritual stagnation. They discuss the failures of attractional services to foster genuine discipleship and examine how Willow’s corporate-style governance affected church culture. Ford provides insightful reflections on reimagining church practices for future generations.

Lance Ford, an author and pastor, joins the discussion to delve into Tony Evans' controversial return to ministry following a resignation for undisclosed sin. They analyze the hurried nature of his restoration and the potential harm of euphemistic language in discussing sin. The conversation critiques the celebratory tone surrounding his return, questioning accountability and transparency. Lance emphasizes the need for a biblically sound approach to restoration while calling for the congregation to demand honesty and integrity from their leaders.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Mike Cosper, a podcast producer and author, delves into the controversial resurgence of Mark Driscoll, the once-reclusive pastor now aligning with MAGA politics. Cosper highlights Driscoll's reinvention post-Mars Hill, his appeal to the youth in Turning Point USA, and the darker aspects of his leadership style. They explore the impact of celebrity culture in ministry, troubling teachings, and how accountability voices have been silenced. The conversation urges a critical examination of character over platform in church leadership.

Paul Coughlin, founder of The Protectors and an anti-bullying expert, dives into the dangers of demonization and its alarming potential for real-world violence, illustrated by recent events. He highlights how dehumanizing language fuels physical harm, drawing parallels to historical atrocities. The discussion extends to the moral implications of celebrating violence on social media and the rise of antisemitism. Coughlin emphasizes the importance of preserving dignity in opposition and offers practical steps to combat toxic rhetoric, advocating for personal accountability and humility.

Rachel Beck, a whistleblower and former Liberty University employee, bravely shares her harrowing experiences with sexual harassment and systemic cover-ups at the institution. She details alarming incidents involving top leaders, including grooming behaviors and betrayal by those she trusted. Rachel reveals the chilling dynamics of Liberty's culture and the oppressive silence enforced by NDAs. Throughout her narrative, she emphasizes the urgent need for accountability within evangelical communities and the importance of reclaiming one's story for healing.

John Horwood and Ian Mayer from Digital Alibi bring their expertise to tackle a pressing issue: safeguarding churches from predators. They discuss the importance of effective misconduct reporting and introduce a new digital platform that supports whistleblowers. The duo emphasizes advanced screening processes to keep congregations safe and explores how business strategies can enhance church safeguarding practices. Their insights include how transparency can foster accountability and empower communities to protect themselves against abuse.

In this thought-provoking discussion, guest Nagmeh Panahi, an abuse survivor and advocate, shares her personal journey and critiques the church's response to abuse, detailing her own experiences at Calvary Chapel. Co-guest Leslie Vernick, a Christian counselor, offers insights on the complex dynamics of love and abuse in marriage, emphasizing the importance of boundaries. Together, they challenge dangerous interpretations of Scripture that permit abuse, encouraging listeners to reclaim discernment and advocate for the vulnerable within the church.

Guest Bios Show Transcript Daystar TV President Joni Lamb is once again framing serious allegations as “cancel culture” and “gossip”—while making it sound deeply spiritual. On a recent Table Talk episode, Lamb and her panel repeated familiar churchy lines like, “When we point a finger, we have all the others pointing back,” and “The same measure that they judge with, God will judge them.” But behind the platitudes lies a troubling context: credible claims that Lamb helped cover up the alleged sexual abuse of her granddaughter—claims first reported by The Roys Report last November.  

Leadership guru John Maxwell shocked many by publicly honoring disgraced pastor Bill Hybels at the Global Leadership Summit at Willow Creek.  

In an attempt to defend her brother Mike Bickle, Lisa Stribling preached a sermon that excuses sin, shames victims, and shields abusers.