The Issues Podcast

Where does the Independent Baptist movement stand today, and what does its future hold? In this episode of The Issues Podcast, Stephen Russ and Tom Brennan take an honest look at the history, strengths, weaknesses, and changing landscape of Independent Baptists. From the rise of fundamentalism and the influence of prominent preachers to the challenges facing churches today, they discuss what has i...

In this episode, Stephen Russ, Tom Brennan, and Martin Wickens continue their discussion on the biblical importance and practical benefits of belonging to a local church. From pastoral care and spiritual accountability to faithful giving, Christian mentorship, and opportunities for service, the conversation highlights how God designed the church to be far more than a place we attend. The guys also...

Why does the local church matter—and can listening to sermons online ever take its place? In this episode, Stephen, Martin, and Tom discuss the biblical foundation and practical value of belonging to a local church. From membership and baptism to fellowship, accountability, and pastoral care, they explore how God uses a congregation to help believers grow, serve, and fulfill the Great Commission....

Stephen, Tom, and Martin are joined by Anthony Collins, an active participant in Indiana Republican politics, for a wide-ranging conversation about the future of conservatism in America. They discuss how Trump has changed the Republican Party’s tone, economic philosophy, immigration policy, and approach to foreign affairs—and whether the coalition he built can survive without him. The conversation...

This week on The Issues Podcast, we introduce a brand-new segment: “Baptist Behaving Badly”—a look at some of the issues, controversies, and lessons coming out of the Baptist world. Then we turn our attention to the main topic: Made for Heaven. Heaven is more than simply the place a Christian goes after death—it is the home God is preparing us for even now. Through the church, His creation, His Wo...

The Lindsay Clancy case has sparked intense debate over mental illness, criminal responsibility, postpartum psychosis, and the meaning of justice. In this episode of The Issues Podcast, Stephen, Martin, and Tom examine the case and wrestle with the difficult questions surrounding it. How should mental illness affect criminal responsibility? What role should compassion play when a horrific crime ha...

The recent revelations involving Kenny Baldwin have prompted difficult but necessary conversations within the church. In this episode, Stephen Russ, Tom Brennan, and Martin Shipe examine the biblical qualifications for church leadership, discuss how churches should respond when leaders fall into serious sin, and explore practical safeguards that can help protect the vulnerable and strengthen accou...

In this special episode of The Issues Podcast, host Martin Wickens sits down with church planters Marty Montgomery and Josh Levesque during the missions conference at Bedford Bible Church. Through personal testimonies, practical insights, and honest reflections, Marty and Josh share how God led them into church planting, not through ambition, but through surrender, faithfulness, and obedience. The...

In this episode of the Issues Podcast, Stephen and Martin unpack what true spiritual leadership looks like from 1 Corinthians 4, addressing why it is often misunderstood in today’s churches and why fewer young men seem willing to step into leadership roles. They explore the tension between faithfulness and success, the dangers of personality-driven ministry, and the challenge of developing the nex...

In this episode, we sit down and walk through Job 31 together, unpacking Job’s final defense and what it reveals about true integrity. As the conversation develops, we explore how Job invites his entire life to be examined from his thought life and purity, to his treatment of others, his handling of wealth, and even his response to his enemies. Along the way, we highlight the nature of integrity a...

In this episode of The Issues Podcast, Stephen Russ and Martin Wickens respond to the disturbing church invasion in Minnesota and explore what it means to protect religious liberty, uphold lawful protest, and remain faithful to Christ in a hostile culture. They discuss church security, the role of government, Christian self-defense, and the balance between loving enemies and seeking justice, alway...

Few topics ignite more passion—and confusion—than the Bible translation debate. In this candid episode, Stephen Russ, Martin Wickens, and Joe Shakour sit down for the conversation many have been asking for but few have been willing to have. From the opening prayer, it’s clear this isn’t a fight to win—it’s a truth to clarify. Together they walk through: How we actually got our English Bible and wh...

🎙️ Issues Podcast — “Dispensationalism: A Biblical Defense” In this timely and engaging episode, Stephen Russ sits down with Martin Wickens and Joe Shakour to discuss one of the most debated theological subjects today: Dispensationalism—what it is, what it isn’t, and why it matters more than ever. This episode speaks to: What the Bible means by “dispensation” and how Scripture itself shows God dea...

In this thought-provoking conversation, Pastor Stephen Russ and Martin Wickens sit down with Pastor Joe Shakour, pastor of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Wilson, North Carolina. They discuss the Shakour’s remarkable journey from a Catholic-Charismatic background to his engagement with deep theological issues. Pastor Shakour opens up about: His parents’ conversion during the Jesus Movement and his ow...

What is true revival? In this episode of The Issues Podcast, Pastor Stephen Russ and Pastor Martin Wickens continue the conversation on revival—what it is, what it isn’t, and how believers can steward the stirring we’re seeing in our nation today. From the Welsh Revival to the Haystack Prayer Meeting, we explore Jonathan Edwards’ five marks of genuine revival: 1️⃣ Exalting Christ 2️⃣ Opposing Sata...

Busyness doesn’t equal godliness. In this episode, Martin and Stephen tackle the subtle but dangerous trap of equating a packed schedule with spiritual growth. They discuss practical ways to evaluate your schedule, set healthy boundaries, and keep your priorities aligned with what truly matters.

The word “revival” is being talked about everywhere—but what does it really mean? In today’s episode, we dig into the heart of the matter: What is true revival? Is it happening right now? And what role, if any, do we play in ushering it in? Join us for a thoughtful and timely conversation you won’t want to miss.

The Book of Acts records the birth of the New Testament church—a movement conceived in prayer, fueled by prayer, and sustained by prayer. In this episode, Stephen and Martin dive deeper into its powerful lessons for us today!

Charlie Kirk was not only a political figure—he stood as a bold witness for truth and faith in Christ, which makes his death both a political and spiritual martyrdom. In this conversation, we discuss: ➡️ What this reveals about our culture ➡️ How the church should respond in times of hostility ➡️ Why courage and conviction are more vital than ever

🎙️ On this episode of the Issues Podcast, we sit down with two young men in their 20s who are faithfully serving the Lord in ministry. While their years of experience may be fewer, their perspective is fresh, their passion is contagious, and their insights are worth hearing. Join us for a thoughtful and encouraging conversation with Landon Street and Micah Still.

As social media grows increasingly toxic, Christians have a unique opportunity to shine as lights through gracious and Spirit-filled communication. In this episode, Martin and Stephen reflect on the future of the podcast while tackling how believers can use their words online to point others to Christ.

🎙️ 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...

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 buz...

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!

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.