Gods of the Smoke Machine: Power, Pain & the Megachurch
Guest Bios
Show Transcript
Megachurches are booming and it’s no wonder. These churches of 2,000 people or more offer many things Christian consumers want, like compelling worship, inspirational sermons, and kids programs.
But they also come with trade-offs.
You likely won’t know your pastor. You have almost no power to shape how the church governs or the pastor behaves. And if you’re hurt in some way — abused, lied to, or trampled over — you’ll likely have no recourse but to leave and try to find healing for what are often profoundly deep wounds.
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1:42:51
Willow Creek at 50: The Extensive Impact & Profound Damage
Guest Bios
Show Transcript
Recently, Willow Creek Community Church—one of the most influential churches in modern evangelical history—celebrated its 50th anniversary. For five decades, the Chicago-area megachurch has shaped how churches look, lead, and measure success through its seeker-sensitive model and corporate-style leadership.
But as Willow Creek marks this milestone, its story is no longer just one of innovation and influence; it’s also one of profound damage.
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1:16:03
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Tony Evans’ Return: ‘Restoration’ or Stagecraft and PR?
After stepping down for “undisclosed sin,” Tony Evans has returned to public ministry, raising questions about repentance, restoration, and transparency. Author and longtime pastor Lance Ford joins Julie to discuss.
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1:06:12
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1:06:12
Confronting the Rise of MAGA Mark
Guest Bios
Show Transcript
A decade after resigning from Mars Hill Church for arrogance and abuse of power, Mark Driscoll is rising once again, buoyed by his reinvention as a MAGA pastor with close ties to Turning Point USA (TPUSA).
In the wake of the assassination of TPUSA’s founder Charlie Kirk, Driscoll is trending on several platforms. He’s appeared on The Charlie Kirk Show.
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1:27:39
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Charlie Kirk’s Assassination and the Danger of Demonization
In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, anti-bullying expert Paul Coughlin explains how demonization can lead to physical harm and urges people to respect the dignity of their opponents.
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