The Russell Moore Show

A listener wonders about choosing songs for corporate worship. Russell highlights the importance of Scripture-consistent truths in worship music. He contrasts the perspectives of worshipers and worship leaders, stressing discernment. Trust in songs is key, but questioning untrue lyrics is essential. He advises balancing new and traditional music, matching songs to service elements. Russell warns against the allure of popular radio songs and discusses the appropriateness of secular music in worship. Lastly, he reflects on the risks of special performances versus genuine worship.

N.T. Wright, a distinguished New Testament scholar and former Bishop of Durham, dives into a listener's question about the parable of the talents in Luke 19. He emphasizes that parables serve as illustrations rather than direct ethical rules. Wright discusses the nobleman's role as a representation of God's judgment rather than an economic lesson. He also clarifies that gaining ‘more’ relates to receptiveness to God’s kingdom, urging believers to actively utilize their gifts for service.

N. T. Wright, a renowned New Testament scholar and retired Anglican bishop, explores the richness of Ephesians in this engaging discussion. He argues that predestination is about vocation rather than fate, calling the church to live for God's glory now. Wright suggests that Ephesians could have significantly influenced the Reformation had it received more focus. He also tackles issues of unity, mutual submission, and the importance of reading the text with care, emphasizing that the church is meant to showcase God's manifold wisdom in a divided world.

Russell takes a listener's question about how a non-believer can meaningfully engage in a book group with Christians. Watch the video of this episode on YouTube here. Submit your own question for the show! Email questions@russellmoore.com — and remember: attach a voice memo! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joni Eareckson Tada is a quadriplegic, author, and advocate for people with disabilities. In this insightful discussion, she shares how a diving accident transformed her life, revealing strength in suffering. Joni tackles the loneliness of disability, the struggle against well-meaning but harmful healing promises, and why limitations can foster liberation. Her practical advice on supporting those in pain is candid and refreshing, emphasizing understanding over platitudes. Joni's journey illustrates the beauty of faith in the face of despair.

A listener wonders if late prayers hold weight, sparking a mind-bending discussion on God's timeless nature. Russell reveals how God transcends human understanding of time, allowing prayers to affect all moments. He explores the practice of praying for past events, suggesting it aids in healing and remembering divine presence. C.S. Lewis's insights add depth, showing that foreknowledge doesn’t diminish the power of prayer. The conversation intertwines faith, memories, and the spiritual significance of hymns throughout one's life.

Acclaimed documentarian Ken Burns discusses his new PBS series on the American Revolution. He argues that understanding the complexities of the founders is essential for today's unity, emphasizing both their heroic and hypocritical traits. Burns tackles the misconceptions on religious beliefs among the founders and explores how hypocrisy, like slavery, often coexisted with their ideals. He also highlights the significance of empathy and shared civic values in an era of division, making a case for a more honest engagement with America's past.

The discussion dives into the dilemma of using worship songs created by fallen songwriters. Russell explores the historical context of hymns written by authors with questionable backgrounds, yet highlights their enduring truth. He debates whether songs serve the same role as sermons, emphasizing the need for mindful selection in worship settings. Listeners are encouraged to consider the congregational perception and the potential signals sent by using certain songs, navigating the fine line between integrity and the power of the music.

In this discussion, Mark Batterson, lead pastor of National Community Church and bestselling author, delves into the concept of gradual transformation. He emphasizes that major life changes often build up unseen over time before appearing sudden. Batterson explores the nuances of patience versus stagnation and the dangers of church celebrity culture on character formation. He provides insights on cultivating imagination, the importance of grit through suffering, and the long-term vision necessary for leadership. This conversation is a profound encouragement for anyone on a spiritual journey.

This episode explores how the church can hold itself accountable without causing division. The discussion emphasizes the importance of correcting insiders more than outsiders, referencing 1 Corinthians 5. Listeners are encouraged to recognize their own tendencies—whether they lean toward cowardice or quarrelsomeness. Russell highlights that the Bible models direct reproof while also advocating for context-sensitive responses. He illustrates how Jesus adapts his tone based on the situation, demonstrating the need for thoughtful engagement in accountability.