Shows
Courier ConversationsFaith, Flag, and Freedom: Navigating Christian PatriotismSend us a textAs Independence Day approaches, Christians face the perennial question: How should we navigate the relationship between our faith and our national identity? In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore the biblical foundations for a Christian's responsibility toward the state, beginning with the nuanced understanding of Romans 13.While Paul instructs believers to submit to governing authorities, this submission has clear boundaries. When government demands contradict scripture or conscience, Christians must respectfully dissent. From abortion laws to restrictions on religious gatherings during COVID-19, believers constantly navigate this delicate balance.The Baptist tradition...2025-06-3022 minCourier ConversationsReading as Spiritual DisciplineSend us a textThe written word has shaped Christian formation since the church began, and in this revealing conversation, Jeff Robinson and Travis Kearns explore how reading remains essential for spiritual growth today."Of making many books there is no end," wrote Solomon in Ecclesiastes – not as a criticism of reading itself, but as a caution against making knowledge an idol above God. Even the Apostle Paul, facing death in a Roman prison, requested his books and parchments for comfort and edification. This biblical foundation sets the stage for a discussion about how intentional re...2025-06-2323 minCourier ConversationsWomen Pastors: A Debate on Scripture's AuthoritySend us a textA thought-provoking examination of biblical authority versus cultural accommodation unfolds as we dive into the New Yorker's recent mini-documentary questioning whether the Southern Baptist Convention can survive without women pastors. We analyze how the video juxtaposes compassionate female leadership against supposedly rigid traditionalism while missing the fundamental theological principles at stake.The heart of this conversation isn't about personalities or even church growth strategies. Rather, we examine how passages like 1 Timothy 2-3 and Titus 1 have historically informed Southern Baptist understanding of pastoral qualifications. Tom Askell's powerful statement from the documentary perfectly...2025-06-0522 minCourier ConversationsThe Pope's Chair: An Evangelical PerspectiveSend us a textThe selection of Pope Leo XIV has captured global attention, prompting three Southern Baptist leaders to examine what this means for evangelicals in this thoughtful episode of Courier Conversations.Jeff Robinson hosts Dr. Travis Kearns and Dr. Walter Johnson for a candid discussion about the theological implications of papal authority from an evangelical perspective. The conversation centers on a fundamental question: Should evangelicals celebrate the selection of a new Pope, or does the very office itself represent a theological problem?The team dives deep into Matthew 16—the passage where Je...2025-05-1722 minCourier ConversationsUnpacking Systematic Theology/Why Theology Matters (Part Two)Send us a textTired of hearing that theology is only for scholars or that doctrine divides people? This illuminating conversation with Dr. Walter Johnson, retired dean of Christian Studies at North Greenville University, makes a compelling case for why theological understanding matters deeply for every believer.Dr. Johnson brilliantly distinguishes between merely knowing about God and truly knowing Him, explaining that while "you can know a lot about God without knowing him, I don't think you can know him very well without knowing a lot about him." This insight forms the foundation for a...2025-04-3023 minCourier ConversationsUnpacking Systematic Theology in Local Churches (Part One)Send us a textDoctrinal avoidance has become a disturbing trend in modern churches, exemplified by an Arizona pastor who proudly declared: "I don't do doctrine or theology, it's too divisive. I just love Jesus and love other people." This episode tackles this theological aversion head-on with Dr. Walter Johnson, retired dean of Christian Studies at North Greenwood University. He expertly dissects why this pastor's statement is fundamentally self-contradictory – the moment someone preaches about Jesus, they're engaging in theology. The question isn't whether you're doing theology, but whether you're doing it well.We exp...2025-04-1722 minCourier ConversationsWhere Is God in Natural Disasters?Send us a textThe most devastating wildfires in upstate South Carolina history have ravaged more than 13,500 acres, raising profound questions about divine purpose amid suffering. Where exactly is God when natural disasters strike? Why does a good and all-powerful Creator allow earthquakes, hurricanes, and wildfires to devastate communities?Host Jeff Robinson shares his experience pastoring in Birmingham during America's largest tornado outbreak, when he boldly placed "Where was God?" on the church marquee—drawing hundreds seeking answers to life's most challenging theological question. Co-host Travis Kearns unpacks the philosophical tension articulated by Friedrich Nietzsche: If...2025-04-0222 minCourier ConversationsMade in His Image: Exploring Biblical GenderSend us a textA Supreme Court nominee unable to define "woman" and a President needing to officially declare only two genders exist – how did we arrive at this cultural moment where biological reality became controversial? Jeff Robinson and Travis Kearns tackle the increasingly confused topic of gender through a biblical lens, providing much-needed clarity with theological depth and practical insight.The conversation begins in Genesis, where God's intentional design of male and female establishes not just biological categories but complementary roles with divine purpose. "God made them male and female, in His image, to mu...2025-03-1522 minCourier ConversationsSmall Doesn’t Equal Unhealthy: Rethinking Church SizeSend us a textAre big churches necessarily healthy? In our latest episode, we explore the complex relationship between church size and spiritual vitality, challenging the widely-held belief that larger congregations automatically reflect greater health. Join hosts Jeff Robinson and Travis Kearns as they engage in thought-provoking discussions about the true markers of a healthy church.We delve deep into the critical elements of church health, emphasizing the importance of a robust foundation in Scripture. With references to influential thinkers like Mark Dever, we explore how expository preaching and active engagement in the Great Commission...2025-02-2821 minCourier ConversationsExamining DEI Through a Biblical Lens: Unity, Division, and Scriptural AlignmentSend us a textDiversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are buzzwords that dominate contemporary discourse, yet their implications and origins often remain unexplored. Join us as we host Travis Kearns, trustee at the Baptist Courier, to shed light on DEI through a biblical perspective. Challenging the conventional wisdom of DEI's Marxist roots, we explore how its focus on equal outcomes may diverge from the Christian principles of merit and opportunity. Our conversation also delves into the political landscape, reflecting on significant actions like President Trump's executive order against DEI programs, and questions how such cultural ideologies could...2025-02-1522 minCourier ConversationsUnlocking the Bible's Cohesive NarrativeSend us a textEver wonder why certain books of the Bible, like Leviticus and Numbers, seem daunting and irrelevant? Join me, Jeff Robinson, as I unravel this mystery through the lens of Luke 24, exploring how Jesus' resurrection provides a fresh perspective on these challenging texts. This episode promises to illuminate the significance of Christ's resurrection and how it can transform your reading of the Bible into a cohesive, hope-filled narrative. Let's journey together to understand why these ancient texts matter deeply to our Christian faith.Throughout history, Jesus Christ has been the central figure...2025-01-3125 minCourier ConversationsBalancing Faith and Fandom: Exploring Sports as Gifts and IdolsSend us a textWhat happens when the thrill of a last-minute touchdown crosses paths with the teachings of faith? Join us in an enlightening discussion featuring Brian Payne, lead pastor of Lakeview Baptist Church and former University of Alabama football player. Together with Travis Kearns and me, Jeff Robinson, we reflect on Alabama, Clemson, and Georgia's recent playoff exits and what they reveal about the fascinating intersection of sports and Christianity. You'll hear personal stories, like Travis's Clemson devotion shining through his orange wedding band, and how each of us finds our sports passion reflecting in...2025-01-1523 minCourier ConversationsThe Complex Path to Restoring Fallen Pastors: Accountability, Grace, and RedemptionSend us a textWhat happens when a pastor experiences moral failure? Can redemption pave the way for a return to leadership, or is the path to restoration much more complex? Join us as we, along with co-host Travis Kearns, tackle these pressing questions, exploring the delicate balance between accountability and grace within church leadership. Drawing from Jonathan Lehman's insights and our own experiences, we navigate the distinctions between restoring someone to church membership versus a pastoral office. Discover how the biblical qualifications in 1 Timothy guide these challenging decisions, and consider the profound implications of church discipline...2024-11-3024 minCourier ConversationsThe Enduring Impact of Reformation Day on Modern Faith and TheologySend us a textExplore the transformative legacy of Reformation Day with us and our distinguished guest, Dr. Walter Johnson, a seasoned expert in church history and theology. Discover how the monumental events sparked by Martin Luther's 95 Theses in 1517 continue to shape modern faith and emphasize the importance of returning to biblical authority. Through engaging discussions, we reflect on the profound reactions of students encountering historical figures like John Bunyan and Jonathan Edwards, underscoring the enduring influence of Reformation principles on contemporary religious thought.We also tackle the necessity of engaging with differing theological views...2024-10-3126 minCourier ConversationsNavigating the Abortion Debate from a Christian PerspectiveSend us a textIs the current abortion debate in America a reflection of the sexual revolution's consequences? Jeff Robinson and Travis Kearns invite you to explore this provocative question as they dive into the ethical and political complexities of abortion from a Christian perspective. Sparking from William McGurn's eye-opening editorial in the Wall Street Journal, we dissect the dramatic shift from a predominantly pro-life stance to a more prevalent pro-choice sentiment nationwide. This discussion transcends the typical narratives of women's health care and reproductive justice, focusing instead on the moral responsibilities that accompany sexual activity and...2024-08-3122 minCourier ConversationsThe Power of Christian Friendships in MinistrySend us a textWhat if a strong friendship rooted in faith could transform your ministry? Join us on Career Conversations Now as we reveal the vibrant new format with co-hosts Jeff Robinson and Travis Kerns. Celebrating a 25-year friendship that began at Southern Seminary, we kick things off with some friendly football rivalry—Travis, a die-hard Clemson fan, and Jeff, a Georgia Bulldogs enthusiast. But beyond the banter, we dive into serious issues affecting the Southern Baptist and South Carolina Baptist Conventions, from theology and culture to politics, all while keeping the discussion accessible and engaging.2024-07-3120 minCourier ConversationsNew Format for Courier ConversationsSend us a textMoving forward, Travis Kerns will join Jeff Robinson to discuss the issues each month. In this inaugural edition , they discuss the work of the SBC’s cooperation committee and the Law Amendment.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2024-05-3023 minCourier ConversationsEducating a generation at NGU: A conversation with Walter Johnson.Send us a textWalter Johnson, founding Dean of the College of Christian Studies, reflects on North Greenville’s remarkable transition from a struggling two-year college to a thriving four-year university made during his 32-year tenure.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2024-05-1322 minCourier ConversationsMeet Evan Knies, our book publisherSend us a textCourier President Jeff Robinson and publisher Evan Knies discuss Courier Publishing, the new 1821 book line, and their love for books in general.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2024-04-0321 minCourier Conversations“Meet NGU’s New Provost.”Send us a textCourier President Jeff Robinson interviews Hunter Baker about his new work at North Greenville University.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2024-02-0725 minCourier ConversationsHow to Really Love Your PastorSend us a textDon Cox talks with the Courier’s president about his new book on how churches can love their pastors well. Dr. Cox has been pastor of Concord BC in Anderson, SC, for the past 20 years and previously served as professor of evangelism at Southern Seminary. https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2024-01-2525 minCourier ConversationsConversation with Dr. Tony Wolfe, SCBC Executive Director-Treasurer: (Part 2)Send us a textTony and Jeff talk about their first weeks among South Carolina Baptists and also discuss Christian civility when it comes to believers disagreeing on things.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-10-1820 minCourier ConversationsConversation with Dr. Tony Wolfe, SCBC Executive Director-Treasurer: Part 1Send us a textTony and Jeff talk about their first weeks among South Carolina Baptists and also discuss Christian civility when it comes to believers disagreeing on things. https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-10-0616 minCourier ConversationsConfessionalism in Baptist LifeSend us a textThis episode of Courier Conversations with host Jeff Robinson and historian Peter Beck, professor at Charleston Southern University, examines the history and place of confessionalism in Baptist life.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-09-0720 minCourier ConversationsSharing Our Christian FaithSend us a textTravis Kerns, missions strategist for Three Rivers Baptist Association, talks with Editor Jeff Robinson about sharing the gospel with Mormons, Jehovah’s Witnesses and other cults. Kerns is author of “The Saints of Zion: An Introduction to Mormon Theology,” published by Broadman & Holman.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-08-0322 minCourier ConversationsArt to Heart Celebrating 50 YearsSend us a textIn this episode, Bill Cox, founder of Concoxions Ministries, tells Managing Editor Todd Deaton about how "Art to Heart" began 50 years ago when he offered to substitute as a chalk artist on a mission trip to Kentucky. He also shares his plans for celebrating this half-century milestone by doing 50 drawings in churches and various venues, concluding with Spartanburg First Baptist on June 23, 2024https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-07-0528 minCourier ConversationsBaptist Beginnings in South Carolina: A Conversation with Tom Nettles, Part 2Send us a textThe Courier talks with Baptist historian Tom Nettles about the rich history of Baptists in South Carolina. Dr. Nettles has served for many years as a professor of church history and is author of numerous books on Baptist history including "Baptists and the Bible" and "James Petigru Boyce: A Southern Baptist Statesman." https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-05-1717 minCourier ConversationsBaptist Beginnings in South Carolina: A Conversation with Tom Nettles, Part I.Send us a textThe Courier talks with Baptist historian Tom Nettles about the rich history of Baptists in South Carolina. Dr. Nettles has served for many years as a professor of church history and is author of numerous books on Baptist history including "Baptists and the Bible" and "James Petigru Boyce: A Southern Baptist Statesman." https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-05-0414 minCourier ConversationsResurrection and HopeSend us a textEditor Jeff Robinson talks with Taylors Pastor Josh Powell about the Resurrection of Christ and the Hope of Easter.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-03-2916 minCourier ConversationsInterview with Nathan Finn who is running for SBC Office.Send us a textThe New Courier Editor talks with Nathan Finn, provost at North Greenville University, about his renomination for SBC recording secretary. Finn also discusses the need for Baptists to know their history. https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-03-1517 minCourier ConversationsMeet Our New Editor!Send us a textJeff Robinson, Louisville pastor and director of news and information at Southern Seminary, was elected President and Editor of The Courier on Feb. 17. Retiring Editor Rudy Gray interviews Robinson about his family, career and vision for The Courier.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-02-2218 minCourier ConversationsPart 2: Building a fulfilling, mutually supportive relationshipSend us a textPastor Eddie Leopard and his wife, Dawn, continue sharing some of their insights about love, marriage and building strong families. They are the authors of “Home-Base Marriages: Essentials for a Healthy Marriage That Will Last Through the Generations,” printed by Courier Publishing. https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-02-0822 minCourier ConversationsLeopards: Building a fulfilling, mutually supportive relationshipSend us a textEddie and Dawn Leopard talk with Managing Editor Todd Deaton about Home Base Ministries, their ministry focusing on healthy marriages and better parenting. Married for almost 40 years now, they share some of their insights on keeping a relationship fresh and exciting. https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-01-2517 minCourier ConversationsCourier Building FloodsSend us a textEditor Rudy Gray and CFO Chris Holliday discuss the water damage to The Courier’s offices caused by a burst pipe during the recent cold snap. https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2023-01-1113 minCourier ConversationsSCBMA Caring For South Carolina’s Senior Adults: Part 2Send us a textIn part two, Tom Turner, president and CEO of SCBMA, shares his dream of a new facility to care for senior adults in the midlands and about a new line of service that SCBMA has started offering called Senior Smart Solutions, using technology that allows individuals to age more safely and stay at home longer. He also shares about the brand new nursing facility at Bethea.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-12-1421 minCourier ConversationsTom Turner: SCBMA Caring for Senior Adults Across South CarolinaSend us a textPart One of a Two part series with Tom Turner, president and CEO of South Carolina Baptist Ministries of the Aging, shares about the care that South Carolina Baptists are providing through both continued opportunities for ministry and personal enrichment for aging adults who live at their two retirement communities: Martha Franks and Bethea.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-11-3021 minCourier ConversationsNew President of the South Carolina BaptistsSend us a textAlbert Allen, the incoming President of the South Carolina Baptist Convention, shares his Theme and Plans for SC Baptists in 2023. Allen, Pastor of First Baptist Church, Newberry, is a former Missionary to Asia, working with an unreached people group.Allen also shares his hope for SC Baptists to capture again the spirit of being on mission together.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-11-1630 minCourier ConversationsSCBC Sexual Abuse Task Force Report..Part TwoSend us a textIn Part 2 of the episode, D.J. Horton, chair of the SCBC Sexual Abuse Task Force, says it’s not just about protecting the church’s witness, it’s about doing what is in the best interest of the survivor. https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-11-0217 minCourier ConversationsSCBC Sexual Abuse Task Force Report ..Part OneSend us a textIn this episode of Courier Conversations, Chair D.J. Horton, pastor of Church at the Mill in Moore, discusses the upcoming state Sexual Abuse Task Force report at the state convention with Editor Rudy Gray.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-10-1918 minCourier ConversationsAmish Country in SeptemberSend us a textCourier Tours hosted a trip to the Amish Country and Washington,D.C. during the last week of September 2022. Fifty-five people joined us for the journey. Here are some of the highlights of our trip. Join our email list to receive notifications of upcoming trips at couriertours@baptistcourier.com.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-10-1219 minCourier ConversationsAfter Roe, CPC ministry still vitalSend us a textWork of Crisis Pregnancy Centers will continue, even increase, after Roe’s overturning. Vulnerable women still in need of compassion, hope and practical help, CPC director Alexia Newman tells Editor Rudy Gray.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-09-2124 minCourier ConversationsFrom Mission Fields to Hunting FieldsSend us a textMike Baker, director of missions for Piedmont Association, talks with Rudy Gray about experiences on the international mission fields and in the hunting fields of South Carolina. Baker also reveals a potential title for the latest book he is writing.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-09-0717 minCourier Conversations“Where is SC’s Heartbeat bill?"Send us a textTony Beam, director of the Office of Public Policy, discusses with Rudy Gray the recent injunction of the Heartbeat Bill and related developments in the S.C. Legislature.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-08-2420 minCourier ConversationsEveryone Can Do Something TourSend us a textTodd interviews Jay Boyd, of Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministry about the upcoming Everyone Can Do Something Tour, Sept. 6-8, at three locations across the state. Presented by Jason Johnson, of Christian Alliance for Orphans, the tour will encourage church leaders in supporting children and families involved in foster care.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-08-1019 minCourier ConversationsServing on the Ukraine Border.Send us a text Interview with Wil Bradham who recently led a six-member team of South Carolina Baptists to Romania to minister among Ukrainian refugees.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-07-2716 minCourier ConversationsIn the Wake of Roe.Send us a textTony Beam, director of Public Policy for the South Carolina Baptist Convention, discusses what is happening in South Carolina in the wake of the overturn of Roe v Wade with Courier Editor Rudy Gray.https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-07-1320 minCourier ConversationsOcean View Baptists Celebrate 40 Years of Deaf Ministry.Send us a textTodd Deaton talks with Margene Todd, a member of Ocean View Baptist Church in Myrtle Beach, who is celebrating 40 years of ministry to the deaf. https://baptistcourier.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/2022-06-2915 min