Gabriel Salguero, Pastor of The Gathering and leader of the National Latino Evangelical Coalition, shares insights on how potential mass deportations could profoundly impact Christian communities. He discusses the church's need to prepare for this possibility while offering hope. Meanwhile, Esau McCaulley dives into Jimmy Carter's legacy, contrasting the former president’s faith with contemporary conservative evangelicalism. They unpack Carter's political journey and the lessons it holds for today's church amidst changing political landscapes.

As 2025 kicks off, the hosts dive into listener questions about past regrets and future movie anticipation. Phil humorously defends his fashion choices, while Skye shares his conservative views. They ponder the concept of heavenly accommodations and explore ideas for replacing the quirky 'News of the Butt.' The conversation seamlessly blends laughter with thoughtful reflections on justice, communication, and the complexities of faith in the modern world.

David French, an American attorney and conservative commentator, joins Skye to dissect the evolving landscape of the #MeToo movement. They discuss the stagnation of accountability in Hollywood and politics, especially within evangelical circles. The conversation also touches on the hypocrisy of perceived safety in Christian institutions and the ongoing implications of the ChurchToo movement. Additionally, they tackle a contentious Supreme Court case concerning transgender medical interventions for minors, highlighting the complexities of legal rights and societal dialogue.

Nijay Gupta, a New Testament professor and author, dives deep into the narratives surrounding Jesus' birth. He reveals what the Gospels actually convey versus popular Christmas traditions. The discussion highlights cultural misconceptions, the political dynamics involving figures like Caesar Augustus, and emphasizes the roles of women and Joseph. Additionally, Gupta encourages a thoughtful approach to the Christmas story that balances faith with humility. Meanwhile, celebrity spiritual journeys spark dialogue about our society's hunger for God.

A popular Catholic bishop is shaking up how the church engages with young adults, questioning if celebrity status distracts from faith. A study reveals that regular Bible readers tend to be more generous and happy. Pricelis Perreaux-Dominguez shares insights from her book 'Being a Sanctuary,' which navigates the church's dual role as a source of harm and healing. The discussion also humorously explores rats driving tiny cars, blending fun with deeper reflections on community and the intricate dynamics of church culture.

Hahrie Han, a political science professor at Johns Hopkins and author of "Undivided," discusses the rising trend of singlehood in America, highlighting the dissatisfaction and gender disparities in dating. She explores the nuances of modern relationships shaped by technology and societal expectations. The conversation then shifts to her book, revealing how the racial solidarity initiative at a megachurch outperformed traditional corporate diversity efforts, sparking meaningful yet challenging discussions within predominantly white communities.

Douglas McKelvey, author of the "Every Moment Holy" prayer series, joins to discuss the legacy of Hal Lindsey and his impact on end-times theology in the American church. They explore the significance of written prayers in recognizing God's presence in everyday life. The conversation also touches on the curious rise in Bible sales despite a decline in church attendance and the whimsical return of orcas wearing salmon hats, blending deep spirituality with light-hearted trends.

David French, a contributor known for his insightful commentary on pop culture, discusses his thoughts on Rings of Power Season 2, revealing differing opinions with Skye. They explore the more cynical world of House of the Dragon and draw intriguing comparisons with Dune, suggesting it aligns more closely with Tolkien's themes. The duo also dives into the Penguin crime drama, the upcoming Superman movie, and the unique storytelling of Silo, weaving in reflections on character dynamics and moral complexities in these narratives.

Mike Erre, a pastor known for his Voxology podcast, is joined by Shane Claiborne, an author and activist focused on social justice. They discuss strategies for maintaining family harmony during holiday gatherings amid political tensions. Claiborne reflects on the legacy of his friend, Tony Campolo, emphasizing the importance of the 'red letters' of the Bible in advocating for social justice. They also delve into the challenges faced by churches today and the meaning of gratitude during trying times, weaving humor and poignant insights throughout.

The podcast dives into how Christians can navigate political chaos, weighing the merits of media engagement versus community service. N.T. Wright shines a light on the book of Acts, emphasizing ancient temple imagery for a deeper understanding of faith. The hosts humorously discuss the impact of political news, likening it to an addiction. There's also an exploration of the church as a new temple of unity, tackling modern issues of inclusion and purity in faith communities. Thought-provoking discussions make a compelling case for reconnecting with local engagement.