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Theology & Doctrine

Live Free with Josh Howerton

Lakepointe ChurchTheology & Doctrine
614 episodesUpdated Be the first to rate

Welcome to Live Free with Pastor Josh Howerton. Lakepointe Church is a movement for all people to know Christ, live free, and change the world for God‘s glory. If this podcast is hitting home for you, leave a rating, drop a review, or share it. Your support helps us keep spreading the truth and reaching more people for Jesus. For more digital content, visit https://lakepointe.church/digital/

Episodes

614

  1. · 57 minWhat Happens When You Die? (Pastoral Response) | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    What REALLY Happens When You Die? Does the Bible Give Us a Clear Answer? What happens the moment you die? Do you immediately go to heaven or hell? Does your soul sleep until Jesus returns? And can we really know what happens after death? In this bonus episode of the LIVE FREE Podcast, Pastors Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham respond to a viral video of a church leader who claims we can't know for certain what happens after death. But does the Bible actually leave us guessing? They explain why Scripture offers clear answers about eternity and why Jesus' resurrection changes everything. From heaven and hell to soul sleep, judgment, and the resurrection of the body, Carlos and Paul break down what the Bible teaches about life after death. They also share how Christians can face death without fear, find hope in grief, and live with greater courage and urgency to share the gospel. What you'll learn: What the Bible actually says happens when you die. Why Christians can have confidence about eternity. Whether Scripture supports soul sleep. What happens between death and the final resurrection. Why believers don't need to fear God's judgment. How the hope of heaven changes the way we live today. Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 🧢 Limited Release Pre-Order Merch is NOW Available! Visit https://lakepointe.church/shoplivefree 📦 Free Shipping on orders over $100 - Use code FREE100 at checkout 💬 This week’s giveaway: Comment HAT 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  2. · 1h 59mThis Election Was a Warning. Most Christians Are Missing It | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    Did the 2026 midterm elections reveal something deeper about America's spiritual condition? And what does it really mean to follow Jesus when culture moves in the opposite direction? In this episode of the LIVE FREE Podcast, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham unpack the election results through a biblical lens. From God's sovereignty over nations to the warnings found in Romans 1, they explore how Christians can stand firm in truth without placing their ultimate hope in politics. But the conversation doesn't end with politics. Turning to Mark 8, the pastors explore Jesus' call to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. Through powerful stories from church history and everyday discipleship, they reveal how small acts of obedience can create ripple effects that reach far beyond our lifetime. What You'll Learn: Why God's sovereignty provides hope regardless of political outcomes How Romans 1 describes the consequences of rejecting biblical truth Why the gospel, not politics, is the ultimate answer to humanity's spiritual problems What Jesus meant when He said to deny yourself and take up your cross How small acts of obedience can impact generations Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 🧢 Limited Release Pre-Order Merch is NOW Available! Visit https://lakepointe.church/shoplivefree 📦 Free Shipping on orders over $100 - Use code FREE100 at checkout

  3. · 1h 42m2 Pastors Get Honest About Anxiety, Depression & Ministry (ft. Louie Giglio) | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    What does it look like to live a life that truly counts for eternity? And could God be preparing another generation for spiritual awakening? In this special episode of the LIVE FREE Podcast, Pastor Josh Howerton sits down with Louie Giglio, founder of Passion Conferences and pastor of Passion City Church, for a powerful conversation about God's glory, revival, and living a life fully surrendered to Jesus. Louie shares the remarkable story behind Passion OneDay 2000, the unforgettable John Piper sermon that shaped a generation, and how God used unexpected loss and uncertainty to launch a movement. Together, they explore what genuine spiritual awakening looks like, lessons from the Asbury revival, and why following Jesus requires more than comfort and convenience. Louie also opens up about his personal battle with fear and anxiety, the importance of holding on to God's truth, and what it means to remain faithful through every season of life. What you'll learn: How Passion OneDay 2000 helped shape a generation of Christians. Why living for God's glory changes everything. What history and recent revivals teach us about spiritual awakening. How to confront fear and anxiety with biblical truth. Why following Jesus requires sacrifice, perseverance, and faithfulness. How to live with eternity in mind instead of chasing temporary success. Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. Mentioned Resources - Fear Not by Louie Giglio - https://a.co/d/0a7XseOq Louie's sermon titled "Don’t Give the Enemy A Seat at Your Table" - https://youtu.be/_mLgS63cObI?si=CY7Dx02z824aMhtz Passion Conference 2024 moment - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=har4itYxlBg 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  4. · 1h 12mThe 4 BIGGEST LIES About Money That Christians Believe | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    Does God want you to be rich? Does being poor mean you're more godly? And what did Jesus really mean when He said, "Seek first the kingdom of God"? In Episode 100 of the LIVE FREE Podcast, Pastors Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham unpack Matthew 6:33 and explain one of Jesus' most misunderstood teachings. What is the kingdom of God, and what does it actually look like to put God first in your everyday life? They challenge the prosperity gospel and poverty theology, explore what the Bible really teaches about money and possessions, and explain why wealth doesn't determine someone's spiritual condition. You'll also discover practical ways to make Jesus the center of your relationships, finances, work, and daily priorities. What you'll learn: What Jesus meant by "Seek first the kingdom of God." Why God's commands are designed for your good. The difference between prosperity theology, poverty theology, and biblical stewardship. Why wealth or poverty doesn't determine your faithfulness to God. What Jesus promises about God's provision. Practical ways to put Jesus at the center of every area of your life. Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 💬 This week’s giveaway: Comment HAT 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  5. · 39 minWhat is the UNFORGIVABLE Sin? (EXPLAINED) | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    What is the unforgivable sin? Can you commit a sin so serious that God will never forgive you? Jesus warned that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is an eternal sin. But what does that actually mean? Is it rejecting Jesus, saying something offensive about God, or repeatedly falling into the same sin? In this bonus episode of the LIVE FREE Podcast, Pastors Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham unpack Mark 3 and explain what Jesus meant by the unforgivable sin. They examine the biblical context, address common misunderstandings, and encourage those struggling with guilt, shame, or fear about their salvation. The conversation also tackles a question many Christians wrestle with: What if I keep falling into the same sin? Carlos and Paul share practical, biblical steps for overcoming spiritual strongholds through repentance, God's grace, the power of the Holy Spirit, and Christian community. What you'll learn: What Jesus actually meant by blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Three things the unforgivable sin is NOT. Why struggling with sin doesn't automatically mean you've lost your salvation. How to recognize spiritual growth even when you keep stumbling. Practical steps for breaking sinful habits and spiritual strongholds. Why God's power and biblical community are essential for lasting transformation. Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  6. · 1h 56mPastor DISMANTLES Viral Feminist LIE That’s Destroying Marriages | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    What if the very thing you refuse to surrender is keeping you from the life God has for you? Can Christians celebrate Halloween? Does the Rich Young Ruler reveal something about what we're unwilling to give up? And do the Ten Commandments still apply to Christians today? In Episode 99 of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton and Paul Cunningham join Miles Murphy for a powerful conversation about biblical discernment, the cost of following Jesus, and why worldly success can never replace eternal purpose. They also respond to viral relationship advice from Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast, challenging cultural messages about sexuality, divorce, and marriage. In this episode, you'll discover: How Christians can approach Halloween with biblical discernment. What the Rich Young Ruler teaches us about surrender, salvation, and eternal purpose. Why John Piper's famous "Don't Waste Your Life" message still matters today. The three purposes of God's law and whether the Ten Commandments still apply to Christians. What Scottie Scheffler teaches us about success, identity, and glorifying God. Why cultural advice about relationships and divorce often conflicts with God's design for marriage. How the gospel is still transforming lives in unexpected places. Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 💬 This week’s giveaway: Comment HAT 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  7. · 1h 7m2 Pastors DEBATE If Christians Should Watch Movies About WITCHCRAFT & MAGIC?! | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    Should Christians Watch Harry Potter? What Does the Bible Say About Witchcraft and Magic? Is watching Harry Potter harmless entertainment—or could it expose Christians to something spiritually dangerous? Where should believers draw the line between fantasy, witchcraft, and biblical truth? In this bonus episode of the LIVE FREE Podcast, Pastors Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham tackle one of the most debated questions in Christian entertainment. From Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings to The Chronicles of Narnia and Marvel movies, they examine what Scripture says about sorcery, spiritual discernment, and the entertainment we consume. Carlos and Paul don't see eye to eye on everything—and that's the point. Through a lively, Scripture-filled debate, they demonstrate how Christians can disagree without compromising biblical convictions or sacrificing unity. In this episode, you'll discover: What the Bible actually says about witchcraft, sorcery, and divination. Why Christians disagree about Harry Potter and other fantasy movies. How to reject, receive, or redeem cultural elements. The difference between what Christians can watch and what they should watch. Practical questions every Christian and parent should ask before choosing entertainment. How to exercise biblical discernment while respecting differences of conscience. Just because something is permissible doesn't mean it's beneficial. What you consume shapes who you become. Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  8. · 2h 3mIs it TRUE that Noah’s Ark Has Been DISCOVERED “100% Confirmed”? (ft. Jeremiah Johnston) | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    Has Noah's Ark REALLY been found—or are millions being misled by sensational headlines? And what does this ancient biblical story reveal about God's protection, judgment, and salvation through Jesus Christ? In this two-part episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham begin with a powerful conversation about becoming repairers of the breach. From resisting spiritual compromise to understanding Christ's victory over darkness, they challenge believers to let God restore what is broken in their lives. Carlos also explains how the four Gospels reveal Jesus through different perspectives. Then Dr. Jeremiah Johnston joins the conversation to investigate viral claims that Noah's Ark has been discovered in Turkey. Together, they examine archaeological evidence, challenge unverified conclusions, and explore why biblical discernment matters. The conversation ultimately reveals how Noah's Ark points to the greatest rescue story of all: salvation through Jesus. In this episode, you'll discover: What it means to become a repairer of the breach. How Jesus defeated the powers of darkness. Why the four Gospels present unique perspectives on Jesus. What the evidence actually reveals about the alleged discovery of Noah's Ark. Why Christians must approach sensational claims with biblical discernment. How ancient flood accounts relate to the biblical narrative. Why Noah's Ark ultimately points to Jesus and the gospel. Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. Into the Breach Resources – https://lakepointe.church/ITBonline Archaeological Scorecard – https://christianthinkers.com/pages/howerton 💬 This week’s giveaway: Comment HAT 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  9. · 1h 58mPastors CONFRONT Top 5 Megachurch Myths (ft. Joby Martin) | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    Is God bringing revival to America while the Church faces more criticism than ever? And are megachurches really as bad as people say? Pastor Josh Howerton sits down with Pastor Joby Martin of The Church of Eleven22 for an unfiltered conversation about revival, biblical truth, spiritual leadership, and the power of the Gospel. Joby shares his incredible journey from a troubled teenager to leading one of America's fastest-growing churches, including his experience defending biblical Christianity in a liberal seminary. Together, they tackle online attacks against pastors, what Christian men should look for in a godly wife, biblical masculinity, and common megachurch misconceptions. Joby also shares unforgettable encounters with Billy Graham and John Piper, along with powerful stories of lives being transformed through prison ministry. Through it all, one message stands out: The Church isn't called to chase crowds, but to make disciples of Jesus Christ. In this episode, you'll discover: Why churches are experiencing revival and opposition simultaneously. How to recognize biblical truth amid criticism and false teaching. What Christian men should prioritize when pursuing marriage. Why biblical leadership requires both strength and sacrificial love. The truth behind common megachurch myths about money, growth, and discipleship. How the Gospel is transforming lives inside America's prisons. Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  10. · 2h 13mShould Christians OPPOSE the Death Penalty?! (What Bible Says…) ft. David Nasser | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    Can you truly follow Jesus without dying to yourself? And what does the Bible actually say about the death penalty? In Episode 97 of the LIVE FREE Podcast, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham welcome special guest David Nasser for a conversation about the cost of following Jesus, the power of God's grace, and what it means to live a surrendered life. David shares the story behind his 40-day devotional, A Call to Die, while the pastors explain the difference between justification, sanctification, and glorification. Then, the conversation turns to one of Christianity's most challenging ethical questions: Can Christians support the death penalty while still extending grace and mercy? Through Scripture and powerful personal stories, they explore the relationship between justice, forgiveness, and the value of human life. In this episode, you'll discover: Why salvation is received by grace, not earned through good works. What it practically means to deny yourself and follow Jesus daily. How justification, sanctification, and glorification work together. Why spiritual disciplines matter for genuine transformation. What Scripture teaches about capital punishment and the role of government. How Christians can uphold justice while showing compassion and forgiveness. Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 💬 This week’s giveaway: Comment HAT 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  11. · 36 minPastor RESPONDS to Talarico and the “Identity Theft” of Jesus | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    What happens when Jesus is used to sell a political agenda? In this bonus episode of LIVE FREE, Pastor Josh Howerton responds to James Talarico’s appearance on Jimmy Kimmel and examines what he believes is a dangerous pattern: using biblical language and selective Scripture to make political ideas sound Christian. The challenge for believers is to recognize when something sounds biblical without actually representing the whole counsel of Scripture. Josh breaks down how Christians can develop biblical discernment, distinguish the responsibilities of individuals, the church, and government, and resist turning Jesus into a mascot for any political cause. Every Christian's ultimate allegiance must be to Jesus first - not a political party, ideology, or movement. In this episode: • How biblical truth can be mixed with misleading conclusions • Why Christians need discernment when Scripture enters political conversations • The biblical distinction between personal responsibility and government authority • Why Jesus cannot be selectively edited to support our preferred politics • How believers can faithfully engage the public square without putting politics above Christ Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  12. · 1h 36m8 Ways Christians Open the Door to the DEMONIC (ft. Jonathan Pokluda) | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    Spiritual warfare is real—but should Christians be afraid of it? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastor Carlos sits down with Pastor Jonathan (JP) Pokluda for a practical conversation about how the enemy works, how Christians can recognize deception, and why Jesus’ victory gives believers confidence rather than fear. Then the conversation shifts from spiritual warfare to revival and evangelism. JP shares what he has witnessed among thousands of young people responding to the gospel and gives a simple, practical approach anyone can use to start conversations about Jesus. In this episode: How Satan uses deception and lies What it means to give the enemy a foothold How confession, accountability, and Scripture help us fight temptation Why occult practices should be taken seriously How Christians can stand firm without living in fear Signs of renewed spiritual hunger and revival A simple method for starting gospel conversations How to share Jesus even when evangelism feels intimidating Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 💬 This week’s giveaway: Comment HAT 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  13. · 1h 26mHow to Find a GOOD Church (and When to Leave) ft. Ed Newton & Matt Chewning | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    How do you know if you’re attending a healthy church? How should Christians navigate difficult family relationships without compromising biblical truth? Can a wife correct her husband? And what do you do when someone you love wants nothing to do with Christianity? In this bonus episode of LIVE FREE, Pastor Josh is joined by Pastors Ed Newton and Matt Chewning for an honest Ask a Pastor conversation about faith, marriage, church culture, the Holy Spirit, and some of the difficult questions Christians face in real life. They also explore what may be changing in the American church—including a growing desire to hold together biblical truth, dependence on the Holy Spirit, and a passion for reaching people with the gospel. In this episode: How to recognize a healthy, godly church Loving people without compromising biblical conviction How husbands and wives can encourage and correct one another Supporting a spouse who serves in ministry The difference between struggling with sin and surrendering to it Responding when someone you love rejects Christianity Why Christians need both the truth of God’s Word and the power of the Holy Spirit Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. Link to article: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/transformation-transgender-teen/ 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  14. · 1h 46mJames Talarico’s HERETIC Pastor Exposed in Undercover Video (Pastors RESPOND) | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh, Carlos, and Paul unpack the Apostle Paul's final words in 2 Timothy 4 and his urgent warning about a time when people will reject sound doctrine and gather teachers who tell them what they want to hear. The conversation explores what it means to preach the Word, remain faithful “in season and out of season,” and know the gospel well enough to recognize when biblical truth is being distorted. The pastors also break down five common false teachings and react to a viral example of progressive theology that challenges foundational Christian beliefs about Scripture, Jesus, and the cross. In this episode: How to recognize faithful biblical teaching What Paul meant by “itching ears” Prosperity Theology vs. biblical blessing The dangers of Word of Faith Theology How Progressive Christianity redefines biblical truth Why works can't earn God's acceptance The danger of “Cafeteria Christianity” Why Jesus' death for our sins remains central to the gospel How to fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 💬 This week’s giveaway: Comment HAT 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  15. · 1h 49mThe Biggest THREAT to Christianity is Happening RIGHT NOW (ft. Philip Anthony Mitchell) | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    What does it look like to contend for your faith when culture is shifting, pressure is rising, and following Jesus may cost you something? Pastor Josh Howerton sits down with Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell for a raw and deeply personal conversation about Philip’s journey from the streets of Queens and Rikers Island to surrendering his life to Christ and eventually becoming a pastor. Philip shares how God transformed his life, shaped his preaching, and taught him that faithfulness—not platform, influence, or recognition—is the true measure of ministry. The conversation also turns to some of today’s most controversial issues as Josh and Philip discuss biblical authority, spiritual deception, Islam, politics, persecution, end-times theology, and why they believe Christians must contend for biblical truth. Through it all, Philip challenges believers to reject apathy and faithfully represent Christ wherever God has placed them. In this episode: Philip Anthony Mitchell’s powerful testimony of coming to Christ Why faithful ministry often begins in obscurity Why Philip preaches with such urgency What it means to “contend for the faith” Biblical authority in an age of spiritual confusion Josh and Philip’s concerns about Islam, religious freedom, and cultural change Their perspective on end-times prophecy and the return of Christ How to remain faithful through criticism and opposition Why your mission field is wherever God has placed you Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  16. · 1h 34mDoes the Bible Have CONTRADICTIONS!? (Pastors EXPLAIN) | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    Does the Bible contradict itself? What should you do when someone points to two passages that seem impossible to reconcile? Pastors Carlos and Paul tackle one of the biggest questions Christians and skeptics ask about Scripture. Starting in 2 Timothy 3, they unpack what Christians actually mean when they say the Bible is inspired and trustworthy—and then put those claims to the test. From different Gospel accounts and genealogies to faith versus works and supposed scientific errors, this conversation offers a practical framework for approaching difficult passages without ignoring honest questions. In this episode, you'll learn: Why the Bible should shape how we see the world What “God-breathed” Scripture actually means The difference between a contradiction and a difference How context, audience, genre, and authorial intent affect interpretation How to approach alleged numerical, historical, chronological, theological, and scientific contradictions Why Paul and James don't contradict each other on faith and works What to do when difficult questions begin shaking your confidence Why Scripture is meant to transform you—not simply inform you Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 💬 This week’s giveaway: Comment HAT 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  17. · 1h 41mHow To Study the Bible (and ACTUALLY Grow Spiritually) | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    How do you actually study the Bible—and how do you know whether a spiritual experience is really from God? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham unpack 2 Timothy 2 and get practical about becoming people who know God’s Word and live it out. Carlos and Paul also share powerful reflections from their trip to Israel, including what Gethsemane and Galilee taught them about Jesus, His sacrifice, and the ministry happening right in front of us. Then the conversation gets practical: How do you avoid pointless Christian arguments without compromising truth? How much power do your words really have? What are the best ways to study Scripture? And when someone claims to have seen heaven or experienced a supernatural vision, how should Christians respond? In this episode: Why Jesus remains faithful even when we fail How to know which theological disagreements are worth fighting over Why your words can bring life or death into your relationships Four practical methods for studying the Bible How to use SOAP and inductive Bible study Why biblical knowledge requires time and intentionality How to test visions and near-death experiences against Scripture Why God’s Word—not personal experience—remains our authority Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 💬 This week’s giveaway: Comment HAT 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  18. · 1h 7mDid The Church BAN These Gospels from the Bible?! | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    What if some of the “lost” or “banned” gospels actually tell us more about the real Jesus than the Bible does? It’s a claim that continues to resurface—and a recent viral conversation on The Joe Rogan Experience brought it back into the spotlight. In this bonus episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Carlos and Paul react to claims about the Gnostic Gospels and examine the historical evidence behind Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Were books about Jesus intentionally suppressed by the Church? Were the Gnostic Gospels actually written first? And can we trust the New Testament to give us an accurate picture of the historical Jesus? Along the way, they also discuss why Christians should pursue truth without becoming hostile toward people asking sincere questions—and why getting Jesus right matters. In this episode: What the Gnostic Gospels actually are Why they were rejected by the early Church When the biblical Gospels were written compared to the Gnostic texts The evidence supporting Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John Why the full character of Jesus matters How to respond when popular voices make questionable claims about Christianity Why the real Jesus continues to transform lives 2,000 years later If you’ve ever wondered whether books were removed from the Bible, whether the Church hid alternative accounts of Jesus, or how confident we can be in the Gospels, this conversation is for you. Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  19. · 52 minWhen Should Christian Parents DISINHERIT a Child?! | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    Should Christian parents ever remove a child from their will? And is an inheritance something children are entitled to—or something parents are responsible to steward before God? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastor Josh reacts to a viral Dave Ramsey conversation with a Christian mother wrestling with whether to leave an inheritance to her adult children. From there, he tackles the deeper biblical questions behind the controversy: stewardship, generational resentment, school choices, socialism, and what parents should do when their children walk away from the values and faith they were raised to embrace. This isn't about creating a one-size-fits-all rule. It's about learning to think biblically about money, family, responsibility, grace, and the legacy we leave behind. In this episode, you'll learn: Whether children are biblically entitled to an inheritance How stewardship should shape the way Christians think about wealth Why Christian parents should think carefully about education and discipleship How Pastor Josh evaluates socialism from a biblical worldview Why inheritance decisions shouldn't be driven by anger or revenge How grace and generosity factor into decisions about a rebellious child How Josh and Jana are approaching inheritance in their own family Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download

  20. · 37 minThe Uncomfortable Biblical TRUTH About the Lindsay Clancy Murders | Live Free with Josh Howerton

    What happens when compassion begins to override truth and justice? And how should Christians respond when a tragic national story becomes a deeply emotional cultural debate? In this bonus episode of LIVE FREE, Pastor Josh examines the national conversation surrounding the Lindsey Clancy case and uses it as a starting point for a biblical discussion about justice, moral responsibility, feminism, toxic empathy, and the danger of allowing emotion or ideology to determine what is right and wrong. But this conversation doesn't end with judgment. Josh turns to the gospel and the radical truth that God's grace is available even to those guilty of the most devastating sins. Christians are called to hold justice and compassion together—refusing to compromise truth while never forgetting the forgiveness offered through Jesus. In this episode, you'll learn: How Christians can view cultural events through the lens of Scripture What the Bible teaches about justice and moral responsibility How ideology can cause people to choose sides instead of pursuing truth The difference between biblical compassion and toxic empathy Why emotion should never override truth or justice How Scripture addresses deception and cultural influence Why the gospel offers grace and forgiveness even in the face of horrific sin Stand firm. Think biblically. Live free. 🧢 Want a Live Free hat of your own? Visit LiveFree.shop 📲 Looking to grow deeper in your faith? Check out the Lakepointe App to access our Discipleship Guide, daily Bible reading plan, and more. Text APP to 20411 to download