The 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 God is all-good and all-powerful, why does evil exist?

The conversation examines Scripture's anticipation of this question, particularly through Job's experience as the righteous sufferer who lost everything while remaining faithful. We explore how God permits Satan to test Job while maintaining ultimate sovereignty—what Charles Spurgeon called "a lion on a leash." This biblical framework helps us navigate contemporary disasters from recent wildfires to devastating earthquakes.

Romans 8:28 emerges as the theological anchor, promising that "God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God." This doesn't mean disasters themselves are good, but that God mysteriously works through them toward ultimate good for believers. Jesus' response to the Tower of Siloam tragedy further illuminates how we should interpret catastrophic events—not as specific punishment, but as reminders of our mortality and need for repentance.

Rather than questioning God's character when tragedy strikes, this episode invites listeners to recognize divine sovereignty operating beyond human comprehension while finding comfort in God's presence amid life's most challenging storms. The conversation concludes with a powerful call to share the gospel with renewed urgency, knowing tomorrow isn't promised for anyone.

Have you wrestled with God's role in natural disasters? Share your experience or questions with us at conversations@baptistcourier.com.

https://baptistcourier.com
https://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/

A 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 multiply and fill the earth," Travis emphasizes, highlighting how modern gender ideology fundamentally contradicts this created order. When examining Romans 1, the hosts make a compelling observation that gender confusion appears as the first-mentioned sin after humans turn from worshiping Creator to creation – a profound insight into why this issue has become so culturally significant.

Drawing from Kevin DeYoung's framework, the discussion outlines five biblical distinctions between men and women: appearance, physical attributes, characteristic strengths, natural demeanors, and complementary roles. While acknowledging cultural variables, they maintain that Scripture provides clear boundaries that celebrate rather than minimize gender differences. Perhaps most intriguing is their examination of whether gender issues might have genetic components influenced by the Fall, while still emphasizing moral responsibility remains unchanged.

This episode offers a thoughtful, Scripture-centered response to one of today's most divisive cultural issues. Whether you're confused by rapidly changing terminology, concerned about cultural trends, or seeking biblical wisdom for conversations with friends and family, this discussion provides solid ground in a shifting landscape. Join us as we examine what it means to embrace God's good design in a world increasingly determined to redefine it.

https://baptistcourier.com
https://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/

Are 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 play vital roles in nurturing a spiritually vibrant community. Moreover, we highlight real-world examples showcasing diverse expressions of church health that transcend mere attendance figures.

Listeners are invited to consider pressing questions: What does a healthy church look like, and how can we measure ministry success beyond numbers? Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, we aim to equip church leaders and members with tools to cultivate environments that prioritize genuine community and spiritual growth.

This episode is filled with valuable insights for anyone invested in church health, from leaders and pastors to dedicated church members. Take part in this enlightening journey and reflect on your own church community's vibrancy. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review to help us spread the word!

https://baptistcourier.com
https://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/