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The Issues Podcast

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Proverbs 4:23 says, ”Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Welcome to the “Issues Podcast” (formerly the Dear Church Podcast), where pastors Tom Brennan, Martin Wickens and Stephen Russ get to the heart of the real issues. These pastors hope to stir your heart and challenge your thinking on key issues within the Independent, Fundamental Baptist movement. Are you ready to deal with your issues?
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Episodes

Issue #64 – LIVE: Season Finale + A Big Announcement!

🎙️ It’s the season finale of the Issues podcast! Today, we dive deep into the challenge of responding to current events—not with knee-jerk emotion, but with wisdom that actually helps the people we serve. If you've ever wrestled with when to speak up and how to do it biblically, this episode is for you. Plus, stick around for a big announcement from Tom at the end! We’ve loved every moment of this season—thank you for listening, sharing, and growing with us.

May 19, 20251 hr 4 minSeason 8Ep. 11

Issue #63 – ⚡️ Lightning Round ⚡️

Welcome to ⚡️ Lightning Round — where bold questions meet blistering opinions. In this episode, a provocative topic is thrown on the table, and the crew has just 3 minutes to dive in. Whether it’s theology, ministry, culture, or controversy, expect passionate debate, raw honesty, and a few holy jabs along the way! No filters. No fluff. Just camp-meeting fire and fundamentalist fury. When the buzzer hits, it’s on to the next one!

May 13, 202550 minSeason 8Ep. 10

Issue #62 – Interview with Evangelist Alton Beal

In this episode, we’re honored to welcome Evangelist Alton Beal, President of Ambassador Baptist College. With decades of experience in ministry and a unique vantage point as a traveling preacher, Bro. Beal shares his insights on the spiritual health and direction of Independent Baptist churches across the country. Don’t miss this engaging and thoughtful conversation!

May 06, 20251 hr 6 minSeason 8Ep. 9

Issue #61 – LIVE Episode, Feedback and Church Unity

Unity is one of the clearest marks of a healthy church. In this episode, we reflect on listener feedback from previous episodes and dive into a conversation about why unity in the local church matters — and how we can actively protect and promote it.

Apr 29, 20251 hr 6 minSeason 8Ep. 8

Issue #60 – What We’re Excited About

🎙️Exciting things are happening! Yes, there are always issues to address—but in this episode, we’re choosing to celebrate. In our 60th episode, join us as we rejoice in the good things God is doing and share some of the victories and encouraging moments that have us excited for the future. Let’s focus on the blessings together!

Apr 15, 202547 minSeason 8Ep. 7

Issue #59 – Unveiled: The Prophetic Dreams of Daniel

In Part 2 of our study of the Book of Daniel, we turn our attention to the remarkable dreams and visions God revealed to him—prophecies that stretched across empires and history. These revelations aren’t just ancient records; they hold vital significance for us today. Join us as we unpack the meaning, the mystery, and the message behind Daniel’s prophetic insight.

Apr 08, 20251 hr 1 minSeason 8Ep. 6

Issue #58 – LIVE: Fellowship, Israel, and Martin's Book

In today’s live episode, we spend our time catching up as friends—talking church life, highlights from Stephen’s Israel trip, and Martin’s 3-year journey writing his new book, Heart & Scroll. Don’t miss this honest and encouraging episode!

Mar 31, 20251 hrSeason 8Ep. 5

Issue #57 – Unshakable: The Steadfast Heart of Daniel

Daniel stands as a powerful example of what it means to have an excellent spirit and a heart fully purposed for God. In this episode, we walk through the first six chapters of the Book of Daniel to explore his unwavering devotion while living in the midst of a heathen culture. His life challenges us to remain faithful, no matter the pressure.

Mar 25, 202558 minSeason 8Ep. 4

Issue #56 – From Classroom to Calling: Transitioning into Full-Time Ministry

As Bible college graduations approach, many students find themselves standing at the edge of a new season—where training ends and the work begins. The transition can be exciting, but it can also bring unexpected challenges. In this episode, we’ll discuss key insights to help you step confidently into your new role and avoid common pitfalls as you begin full-time ministry.

Mar 18, 202559 minSeason 8Ep. 3

Issue #55 — Discussion on Sunday School

Today, we explored the value of the traditional Sunday school format and why it still matters in today’s ministry landscape. Join Martin, Stephen, and Tom as they dive into this important conversation—then let them know your thoughts and share your feedback!

Mar 11, 202559 minSeason 8Ep. 2

Issue #54 – Immigration: Law, Compassion & the Church

In this season opener of The Issues Podcast, we dive into the complex and often polarizing issue of immigration. How have past and present policies shaped churches? What is the government’s role versus the church’s responsibility? And how should Christians balance law and compassion? With a biblical perspective on justice and mercy, we explore how believers can engage this issue with both truth and grace.

Mar 03, 20251 hr 3 minSeason 8Ep. 1

Issue #53 – LIVE: Season Finale, Feedback and More!

In today's season finale, we reflect on feedback from previous episodes, explore the topic of age accountability, and engage in a thought-provoking conversation titled "If I Knew Then What I Know Now." Join us as we wrap up this season of episodes. We look forward to returning with more discussions in the future! This episode aired live on December 2, 2024.

Dec 03, 20241 hr 18 minSeason 7Ep. 11

Issue #52 – We are Thankful!

Join us in the spirit of the season as we dive into the heartwarming principle of gratitude! In this episode, we share our cherished Thanksgiving traditions, reflect on what we're most thankful for, explore practical ways to cultivate a thankful heart, and wrap up with a heartfelt message just for you. It's a celebration of gratitude you won't want to miss!

Nov 26, 202453 minSeason 7Ep. 10

Issue #51 – Calvinism

Today, we're diving into a topic that can often spark strong reactions: "Reformed Theology," commonly referred to as Calvinism. While our aim is not to offend, we do want to take a moment to share some fundamental areas where we differ from this particular theological perspective.

Nov 19, 202457 minSeason 7Ep. 9

Issue #50 – The Importance of Church Membership

Church membership has traditionally been a vital way for Christians to identify with and commit to their local congregation. In today’s world, the importance of this commitment has only grown. In this episode of the Issues Podcast, the hosts explore the biblical foundations of church membership and its practical implications for modern-day Christians.

Nov 12, 202458 minSeason 7Ep. 9

Issue #49 – LIVE episode, feedback, raising boys to be men

Join us for our 50th episode, live! In this special segment, we’ll dive into recent ministry highlights, share feedback from past episodes, and tackle an essential topic: raising our boys to become men.

Oct 28, 20241 hr 8 minSeason 7Ep. 8

Issue #48 – The Lamentations of Jeremiah

The Book of Lamentations is a profound text that reveals the depths of grief, God's righteous judgment on sin, and His overwhelming goodness. Join us as we explore and discuss the book together.

Oct 22, 20241 hr 10 minSeason 7Ep. 7

Issue #47 – Strategic Outreach

In this episode, the guys dive into how pastors can strategically and intentionally minister beyond their congregation, reaching their entire community. They discuss how it’s possible for churches to grow and pastors to engage their cities effectively without compromising biblical principles. Tune in and share with a friend!

Oct 15, 20241 hr 3 minSeason 7Ep. 6

Issue #46 – Saul and David

Two of Israel's most influential kings were Saul and David—Saul, as the nation’s first king, and David, as a man after God’s own heart. These two figures offer much to explore, and we had a rich discussion delving into their similarities and differences.

Oct 08, 202458 minSeason 7Ep. 5

Issue #44 – How to Listen to a Sermon

Not everyone is called to prepare sermons, but every Christian should be regularly nourished by solid, Biblical preaching. Do you have a thoughtful approach to processing and applying the spiritual meals your pastor prepares? Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of each sermon.

Sep 24, 202454 minSeason 7Ep. 4

Issue #43 – Sermon Prep

While seminary teaches pastors the art of preaching, the demands of daily ministry can make it challenging to devote enough time to sermon preparation. Join the hosts of the Issues Podcast as they share their personal strategies for crafting meaningful, Biblically grounded sermons amidst the busyness of pastoral life.

Sep 17, 20241 hr 11 minSeason 7Ep. 3

Issue #42 – What is a Humility March?

In an era where June is globally recognized as "Pride Month," Pastor Tom Brennan chose to take a different path. This episode delves into his initiative to host a "Humility March" as a counter-narrative to the mainstream celebration of the LGBTQ agenda.

Sep 10, 20241 hr 4 minSeason 7Ep. 2

Issue #41 – Cessationism

In this thought-provoking conversation, we dive deep into the heart of theology with a discussion on Cessationism—a doctrine that has sparked debate across denominations for centuries. Is the age of miracles truly past, or does the Holy Spirit continue to manifest in signs and wonders today? Join us for our thoughts.

Sep 03, 20241 hr 8 minSeason 7Ep. 1

"Without the Camp" by Tom Brennan

In a world of consumeristic Christianity, we must deliberately identify with our Savior, Who paid for our sins "without the camp." Enjoy this timely sermon preached by Pastor Tom Brennan.

Aug 27, 202440 minSeason 6Ep. 6

"Battling Temptation" by Stephen Russ

Are you facing temptation? Find strength and hope in this sermon by Pastor Stephen Russ. Discover biblical wisdom to overcome temptation as he exposits James chapter 1.

Aug 13, 202439 minSeason 6Ep. 5

"Fear Not" by Martin Wickens

Enjoy another sermon by Pastor Martin Wickens! This one is entitled, "Fear Not."

Jul 30, 202439 minSeason 6Ep. 4
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