Welcome to the ESM podcast show, where we tackle the pressing questions of faith and public life. In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Rev. Daniel Fleischer to explore the complex relationship between the church and an increasingly political world. We’ll dive into the core mission of Christians, the vital importance of preaching both Law and Gospel, and how to navigate societal pressures when your message is deemed ‘political.’ Discover the biblical approach to spiritual warfare and why the truth of the Gospel is the only true path forward. Join us as we unpack what it means for believers to shine their light in every aspect of life.

ESM Podcast Show dives into the seismic shifts within the Roman Catholic Church in Germany, drawing parallels to historical schisms like the Protestant Reformation. This episode explores the “revolt” by German bishops pushing a progressive, pro-LGBT agenda, directly challenging official Catholic doctrine on human sexuality. We examine specific documents encouraging self-identification and presenting sexual morality as debatable, a stark contrast to Church teaching. Discover why only three German bishops have publicly dissented and the perceived passivity of Pope Francis in addressing this escalating conflict. The discussion also unpacks potential outcomes, from outright schism to Rome’s acquiescence, with significant implications for the global Church, particularly the stark choice between Europe and Africa. Finally, we consider why conservative Protestants may not benefit from a fractured Catholic Church. Tune in for an in-depth look at this high-stakes theological and geopolitical dilemma.

This episode of ESM Podcast Show confronts the escalating violence against Christians in Nigeria, a crisis often overlooked. We hear firsthand accounts from individuals like Pastor Gwali Melton, who faces daily fear while ministering in the Middle Belt. Discover the alarming scale of kidnappings, the perpetrators involved, and the heartbreaking stories of victims. Learn about the security measures communities are implementing and the deep mistrust that has taken root. We also examine the responses from the Nigerian government and the international community, including U.S. actions. Finally, explore how faith sustains individuals like Melton amidst unimaginable adversity, offering a profound look at resilience in the face of terror.

In this episode of the ESM podcast, we delve into a jarring story from Canada that has sparked significant outcry and raised fundamental questions about freedom of expression. We discuss the arrest of Pastor Derek Reimer for refusing to apologize for protesting a drag queen story hour. His defiant stance, stemming from a 2023 protest against a “Reading with Royalty” event, led to his jailing. We also explore the intense reactions from Pastor Artur Pawlowski, who views this as a spiritual battle and an attack on Christian values, drawing parallels to his own clashes with authorities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Join us as we unpack the legal landscape, the concept of compelled speech, and the broader concerns about legislation like Bill C-9, all within the context of a perceived global agenda.

Welcome to the ESM Podcast, where we explore global Christian news. In this episode, we delve into a surprising trend: Artificial Intelligence entering the church. Discover how nearly two-thirds of pastors are now using AI tools, like ChatGPT and Grammarly, to assist with sermon preparation and church communications. We unpack the rapid adoption, the specific tools being used for research and design, and the significant ethical and practical considerations church leaders are grappling with, from theological accuracy to preserving personal connection. Learn how AI is being leveraged for efficiency, rather than replacing the spiritual core, and explore the strong optimism and demand for AI education within ministry.

Opening Song:

🎶 “The Word Will Never Fall” 🎶

Verse 1 (Repeat)Nations fade, the earth will shake,But Your Word will never break.Through the fire, through it all,Your truth will never fall.

Chorus (Repeat)The Word still stands, the Gospel saves,Forever true, through all our days.Heaven and earth may pass away,But the Word of God remains.

Verse 2 (Repeat)Every chain, it breaks in two,Every heart finds life in You.Jesus Christ, the Lord of all,Your Word will never fall.

Chorus (Repeat)The Word still stands, the Gospel saves,Forever true, through all our days.Heaven and earth may pass away,But the Word of God remains.

Verse 3 (Repeat)From the cross to empty grave,All the world knows Jesus saves.Through the storm, we hear Your call,Your Word will never fall.

Chorus (Repeat)The Word still stands, the Gospel saves,Forever true, through all our days.Heaven and earth may pass away,But the Word of God remains.

Outro Instrumental Fade

Closing Song:

🎶 “I Am Not Ashamed” 🎶

Verse 1 (Repeat)In the shadow, in the light,I will stand for what is right.Through the fire, through the pain,I will still proclaim His name.

Chorus (Repeat)I am not ashamed, I will not hide,The cross of Jesus, my hope, my guide.Forever saved, I will proclaim,The Gospel truth, I am not ashamed.

Verse 2 (Repeat)Though the world may turn away,I will follow Him each day.Every moment, every breath,Till my final step of death.

Chorus (Repeat)I am not ashamed, I will not hide,The cross of Jesus, my hope, my guide.Forever saved, I will proclaim,The Gospel truth, I am not ashamed.

Verse 3 (Repeat)When I see Him face to face,Overwhelmed by endless grace,I will sing the same refrain,Forevermore, I’m not ashamed.

Chorus (Repeat)I am not ashamed, I will not hide,The cross of Jesus, my hope, my guide.Forever saved, I will proclaim,The Gospel truth, I am not ashamed.

Outro Instrumental Fade

Opening Song

🎶 “I Will Stand in Faith” 🎶

Verse 1When the night is long, when the road is steep,Still I’ll trust the Lord, His promises I’ll keep.Though the world may shake, though the storms may roar,I will stand in faith forevermore.

ChorusI will stand, I will stand,With my life in His hand.Though the battle may rage,On His Word I will stand.

Verse 2When my strength is gone, when my hope is thin,I will call His name, and His power will win.Though my heart may fear, still my soul will sing,Faithful God, my eternal King.

Chorus

I will stand, I will stand,With my life in His hand.Though the battle may rage,On His Word I will stand.

Verse 3On the Solid Rock, Christ alone I stay,Every chain will break, every night turn day.Till the trumpet sounds and He takes my hand,By His grace, in faith I stand.

Chorus

I will stand, I will stand,With my life in His hand.Though the battle may rage,On His Word I will stand.

Outro Instrumental Fade

Closing Song

🎶 “By Faith I Stand” 🎶

Verse 1Through the storm, through the pain,By Your grace I stand again.On Your Word, firm and grand,By faith I stand.

ChorusBy faith I stand, by faith I live,All I am, to You I give.Though the trial may demand,By faith I stand.

Verse 2In the fire, in the rain,Still Your mercy will remain.Every promise from Your hand,By faith I stand.

Chorus

By faith I stand, by faith I live,All I am, to You I give.Though the trial may demand,By faith I stand.

Verse 3Till I see You face to face,Kept by mercy, saved by grace.In Your love, by Your command,By faith I stand.

Chorus

By faith I stand, by faith I live,All I am, to You I give.Though the trial may demand,By faith I stand.

Outro Instrumental Fade

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”— 1 Thessalonians 5:18