Devil and the Deep Blue Sea

Hell's Bells

119 snips
Mar 25, 2025
Robert Downen, a Texas Tribune reporter known for exposing abuse within the Southern Baptist Convention, and Sarah Pulliam Bailey, a seasoned religion reporter, dive deep into the moral panic surrounding rock music. They discuss the phenomenon of backmasking, revealing how hidden messages in songs fueled fears about youth corruption. The conversation further uncovers the dark legacy of influential church leaders, allegations of abuse, and the culture of silence within religious institutions, urging reform and accountability. It's a gripping exploration of power, faith, and music's impact.
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INSIGHT

Neil T. Anderson's Influence

  • Neil T. Anderson promoted a more therapeutic approach to spiritual warfare.
  • He focused on prayer, forgiveness, and identity in Christ, making these ideas more palatable to mainstream evangelicals.
ANECDOTE

Church Growth Movement

  • The church growth movement, influenced by Donald McGavran, encouraged ministry along affinity lines.
  • This, combined with megachurches' expansion, created a perception of religious revival in the US.
ANECDOTE

Conservative Resurgence

  • Paige Patterson and Paul Pressler led the Southern Baptist Convention's conservative resurgence.
  • Focusing on biblical inerrancy, they orchestrated a takeover of denominational leadership.
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