Elisha's Bears: Exploring Faith, Baptists, and the Bible

In this episode, Dr. Brian Kaylor talks with Pastor Danny about the origins, dangers, and influences of Christian Nationalism. He offers historical context on topics like flags in houses of worship, the Pledge of Allegiance, and “In God We Trust.” Much of the conversation stems from his book, "Baptizing America: How Mainline Protestants Helped Build Christian Nationalism.” Brian is a Baptist minister with a Ph.D. in Political Commu...

There are many implications relating to the IRS's decision not to enforce the Johnson Amendment, which prohibits churches from endorsing political candidates. Pastor Danny talks about the potential consequences of this shift, including the risk of churches becoming politically partisan and losing their spiritual integrity. The church must be careful to focus on its mission of spreading the gospel rather than get caught up in po...

"Let not your heart be troubled" is a challenging and encouraging instruction from Jesus. Pastor Danny refers to these words recorded in John 14 as part of Jesus’ farewell discourse. Jesus wanted the disciples to realize that his departure from them was necessary and real, but temporary. These words are often quoted during times of death, loss and grief. Yet, they are also timely for believers who deal with the uncertainty that oft...

In this conversation, Adam Velk talks with Pastor Danny about the historical significance of the Clinton 12, the first group of black students to desegregate a school in the American South. He shares insights into the challenges faced by these students, the role of community leaders like Reverend Paul Turner, and the ongoing impact of these events on the town of Clinton. He also emphasizes the importance of understanding this histo...

In this episode, Jeff Langford drops in for an interview about the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. He talks with Pastor Danny about the importance of building relationships in ministry and notes some challenges faced by churches today. Jeff notes the generational perspectives within CBF, the role of women in ministry, and the impact of Christian nationalism. There’s a nod to Father’s Day and reflections on being a dad. Jeff is a hu...

Father's Day can be an emotional day for a variety of reasons. Pastor Danny explores the significance of Father's Day, the emotional complexities surrounding fatherhood, and the impact of father absence on children. It highlights personal stories and societal observations, emphasizing the importance of father figures and community support in nurturing children. The discussion also touches on the spiritual role of fathers and the ne...

The Ascension is a vital part of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. This event is referenced at the end of the gospel of Luke as well as the beginning of the book of Acts, having been recorded by the same author. Pastor Danny deals with the exploration of spiritual navigation, the mission of discipleship, and the importance of staying connected to Christ. It also references how Christians can remain anchored in their faith amid...

Life as a preacher's kid has its own special set of challenges, stressors, and blessings. Kelly Dean Johnson talks with Pastor Danny about her parents and what it was like growing up in a church and town as a "PK." She shares some of the joys as well as difficulties of that experience, and some life lessons she learned along the way. Kelly is Director of Clinton City Schools in the historic town of Clinton, TN, where her dad served...

Rev. Jason Taylor talks about a recent sermon concerning the bribe and lie the religious leaders gave the soldiers to explain the empty tomb. Yet there have been additional "lies" that have been told that impact the church's life and ministry. Jason talks with Pastor Danny and offers some additional thoughts about how to respond to questions about the Christian faith, while emphasizing the importance of authenticity for followers o...

FOMO is a real thing! Pastor Danny talks about how the "fear of missing out" can distract or even consume our lives, keeping us from doing those things which can glorify Christ. It's important to note that even one of those first disciples who walked with Jesus still failed him. Simon Peter suffered a rather humiliating and public failure and a public restoration, yet this was not enough for him--he had to know what Jesus had in mi...

Mother's Day is an emotional holiday for many people for a lot of reasons. Pastor Danny talks about this, as not every woman is wife or a mom, and some persons are approaching this day for the first time since the death of their mom. Yet, it is also a very happy time for moms and families who have good relationships and can be together. The relationship of Jesus and his own mother is a good model for us to consider as we try to und...

Hypocrisy is a real problem in the church, yet many religious leaders do not see this character flaw in their own lives. It's easier to point out the sins of others than it is to recognize on our shortcomings and failures. Jesus saved his harshest criticisms for the Pharisees and Scribes who were responsible for guiding the people into the knowledge of God. Yet, they often "did not practice what they preached." This c...

Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, and his funeral has drawn political and religious leaders from around the world. Soon after this, the Roman Catholic Church leadership will enter a time and place to call their next Pope. Pastor Danny talks about Conclave as a secretive and ancient process resulting in the election of the next Pope to lead more than one billion Roman Catholics worldwide. Obviously, not all churches function in th...

Thomas is best remembered for his "doubting" when the other disciples told him that they had seen the Lord. It wasn't called "deconstruction" then, but Thomas provides an example for this kind of struggle to discern between truth and fiction. There are many who question and doubt regarding Christianity's truth claims. There's nothing wrong with honest doubt, provided that it is part of a process of d...

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the most important event in human history. Christians as well as unbelievers come together on Easter Sunday to hear the testimony of the eyewitnesses to the risen Jesus as recorded in the Bible. The church exists not because of the power of human effort but due to the truth of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. While there are a number of witnesses to this event, Mary Magdalene stands out because ...

In this episode, we explore the profound significance of Holy Week, emphasizing the importance of reflecting on the events leading up to Easter. This is the last week of Jesus' earthly life, and includes his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the cleansing of the temple, and the emotional responses of the people. It's important for us to embrace the journey of Holy Week, while acknowledging the challenges and disappointments t...