In this episode, we sit down again with Donald Taylor for a raw, unfiltered conversation on the false gospel of racial identity and the soul-freeing power of Christ’s sufficiency. Picking up where we left off, we confront the growing trend of ethnic religion—what some call “the religion of blackness”—and expose it as a modern-day idolatry that exchanges the glory of Christ for the shadow of culture. Donald shares his own testimony of being delivered from this deception, and we press into why Christ alone—not culture, not color, not heritage—is the only hope for sinners. This is not about denying ethnicity; it’s about refusing to deify it. If you’ve ever wondered where gospel fidelity ends and cultural captivity begins, this conversation will bring clarity.

In this fourth episode of our series on biblical eldership, Pastor Eric Noorthoek and guest Joseph Rios tackle one of the most common points of confusion in church life: the distinction between elders and deacons. What does Scripture say about their respective roles? Are they interchangeable? Are deacons a “stepping stone” to eldership—or something altogether different? Drawing from passages like Acts 6 and 1 Timothy 3, this conversation aims to bring clarity where there is often ambiguity. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the beauty of God’s design for church leadership: elders who shepherd the flock through the ministry of the Word, and deacons who serve faithfully to support and strengthen that work.

In this third installment of our series on biblical eldership, Pastor Eric Noorthoek and guest Joseph Rios dive into the weighty and sobering qualifications laid out in 1 Timothy 3:1–7. What does it mean to be “above reproach”? How do we reconcile the terms “pastor” and “elder” in Scripture? And why must a man’s private character match his public ministry? Join us as we explore the spiritual and moral standards God requires for those who would lead His church. Whether you’re currently serving, aspiring to leadership, or simply desiring to understand the structure of biblical authority, this episode will challenge you to think deeply, examine personally, and worship reverently.