Highest Power: Church + State

The discussion kicks off with a critique of Trump's loud primetime address, highlighting misleading claims about immigration and job creation. Fact-checkers expose false economic assertions while exploring how rhetoric often clashes with the public’s lived experiences. Attention shifts to Pete Hegseth's controversial plans for military chaplains, which include removing secular elements and simplifying faith codes. The conversation reveals a troubling trend among some white evangelicals towards non-reality, prompting a call for a theology grounded in truth and transformation.

Ben Cole, a conservative commentator and contributor to Baptist News Global, dives deep into the unsettling connections between evangelical theologies of hell and patterns of sexual abuse in church settings. He discusses why loyal congregants often cling to troubled ministries, despite abuse allegations. The conversation reveals how a fear of disrupting evangelistic efforts drives silence around these issues, and explores the traumatic impact of eternal conscious torment teachings on children. Cole also critiques traditional atonement theories that can normalize victimization.

Thursday, December 11, 2025 — You're listening to Highest Power: Church + State, a weekly podcast from Baptist News Global, hosted by Rick Pidcock. Support faith-based journalism at baptistnews.com.

Monday, December 8, 2025 — You're listening to Highest Power: Church + State, a weekly podcast from Baptist News Global, hosted by Rick Pidcock. Support faith-based journalism at baptistnews.com.

Mark Schelsky, Pastor of Bridge City Community Church, explores how Advent can help process today's troubling news. He discusses the appeal of liturgy and how ancient Christian voices can reshape modern faith. Mark connects the Advent theme of hope with recognizing systemic darkness while honoring marginalized voices. He redefines Advent as a period of honest reflection rather than just a countdown to Christmas, advocating for compassion and transformation inspired by Isaiah's call to care. This conversation is a timely reminder of hope amidst societal challenges.

Monday, December 1, 2025 — You're listening to Highest Power: Church + State, a weekly podcast from Baptist News Global, hosted by Rick Pidcock. Support faith-based journalism at baptistnews.com.

Friday, November 28, 2025 — You're listening to Highest Power: Church + State, a weekly podcast from Baptist News Global, hosted by Rick Pidcock. Support faith-based journalism at baptistnews.com.

Monday, November 24, 2025 — You're listening to Highest Power: Church + State, a weekly podcast from Baptist News Global, hosted by Rick Pidcock. Support faith-based journalism at baptistnews.com.

The conversation opens with a powerful call for the release of Epstein files, featuring survivor testimonies. Political dynamics come into play as Trump frames Epstein's ties as a Democratic issue, creating tension within the GOP. The podcast uncovers the extent of media manipulation and partisan spin surrounding the case. Finally, it highlights a crucial point: political loyalty often silences abuse allegations, pushing for greater accountability and a survivor-centered approach to justice.

The discussion dives deep into the Epstein coverup and political complicity. Rick highlights MAGA figures pushing for the release of Epstein materials while examining links to Trump. A survivor recounts her chilling introduction to Trump, revealing trafficking dynamics. Political pressure from Trump on Republicans complicates the narrative further. The conversation also critiques Megyn Kelly's controversial remarks on Epstein's victims, sparking a powerful response from a 14-year-old. Finally, Krista Brown shares her personal story of abuse, calling for accountability and challenging child abuse minimization.