Andrew Rappaport's Rapp Report

• Wolves in Sheep's Clothing: Recognizing Toxic Church Dynamics

  Navigating the often murky waters of church leadership and the potential for harm within Christian communities is the focal point of today’s discussion. Andrew kicks things off by asking a poignant question: Have you ever felt misrepresented or harmed by church leaders? As the conversation unfolds, they dive deep into the patterns of behavior that can lead to hurt, particularly how social justice ideologies can infiltrate church doctrine, causing disillusionment for many faithful congregants. With Pastor Jeff sharing his own experiences of being censured and ultimately ousted from his denomination, listeners are encouraged to recognize they are not alone in their struggles. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt reminder that, despite the challenges faced within the church, maintaining a commitment to truth and integrity is paramount for both leaders and congregants alike.Takeaways: The podcast dives deep into the theme of how church leaders can sometimes hurt their congregants, challenging the notion that such behavior is unexpected in Christian environments. Pastor Jeff reveals his experience with the Evangelical Free Church, detailing how social justice ideologies infiltrated church governance and practices, affecting the church's integrity. A key focus of the discussion is the importance of due process and truth in church discipline, highlighting how many Christians overlook these principles in favor of expediency. Listeners are encouraged to develop thick skin in the face of adversity and to trust in God's sovereignty when facing unjust accusations or slander within the church community. Links referenced in this episode:strivingforeternity.orgcornerstonesj.orgstrivingforeternity.org/coffeeWoke-Free ChurchMentioned in this episode:What Do They BelieveWhat do We Believe by Andrew Rappaport

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• A Cover for Glory: A Biblical Defense for Headcoverings

  Rapp Report episode 331 Head coverings have emerged as a hot topic in recent discussions, as highlighted by Dale Partridge, who notes that this issue has not really been a point of contention for centuries but is now gaining traction. The conversation pivots around Dale Partridge's book, "A Cover for Glory," which argues that head coverings were once a universal practice among women in the church and have become obscured in modern times, particularly due to the influence of feminism. Andrew Rappaport engages in a spirited dialogue with Partridge, exploring the theological implications and historical contexts of head coverings, particularly in light of 1 Corinthians 11. They delve into the nuances of authority, gender roles, and the significance of submission in the Christian faith, suggesting that the resurgence of interest in head coverings may reflect a deeper craving for biblical order and masculinity in a culture increasingly at odds with traditional values. Ultimately, the episode serves as a platform for listeners to reconsider their understanding of head coverings and the broader implications for church life and gender dynamics today.Takeaways: Head coverings have emerged as a controversial topic in contemporary Christian discourse, particularly as cultural dynamics shift and traditional practices are reexamined. Dale Partridge's book, 'A Cover for Glory', argues that the historical practice of women wearing head coverings has roots that span across many centuries and cultures. The discussion around head coverings is not merely about physical adornment but is deeply intertwined with theological concepts of authority and gender roles in the church. There's a noticeable trend among younger Christians moving towards traditionalism, including the practice of head coverings, as a response to modern feminism and cultural shifts in gender perception. Links referenced in this episode:relearn.orgstrivingforeternity.orgThis podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for EternityLeave us a reviewGive us your feedback, email us [email protected] the book What Do They BelieveGet the book What Do We BelieveSponsors:Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchaseLogos Bible SoftwareMyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE Mentioned...

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• Church, Part 11 - Spiritual Gifts Part 2 of What We Believe, Part 47

  Rapp Report episode 330Discussed from What We Believe?“Therewere two kinds of gifts given totheearly church. Miraculous gifts of divine revelation and healing were given temporarily intheapostolic era forthepurpose of confirmingtheauthenticity oftheapostles’ message (Hebrews 2:3-4;2 Corinthians 12:12). Ministering gifts were given to equip believers for edifying one another. WiththeNew Testament revelation now complete, Scripture becomesthesole test oftheauthenticity of a man’s message, and confirming gifts of a miraculous nature are no longer necessary to validate a man or his message (1 Corinthians 13:8-12). Miraculous gifts can even be counterfeited by Satan to deceive even believers (1 Corinthians 13:13-14:12;Revelation 13:13-14).Theonly gifts in operationtodayare those non-revelatory equipping gifts given for edification (Romans 12:6-8). No one possessesthegift of healingtoday, but God does hear and answertheprayer of faith and will answer in accordance with His own perfect will forthesick, suffering, and afflicted (Luke 18:1-6;John 5:7-9;2 Corinthians 12:6-10;James 5:13-16;1 John 5:14-15).”This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for EternityLeave us a reviewGive us your feedback, email us [email protected] the book What Do They BelieveGet the book What Do We BelieveSponsors:Squirrelly Joe’s Coffee use the code SFEfor 20% off your purchaseLogos Bible SoftwareMyPillow or call (800) 873-0176 and use promo SFE Mentioned in this...

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• Church, Part 10 - Spiritual Gifts Part 1 of What We Believe, Part 46

  Rapp Report episode 329Discussed from What We Believe?"There were two kinds of gifts given to the early church. Miraculous gifts of divine revelation and healing were given temporarily in the apostolic era for the purpose of confirming the authenticity of the apostles’ message (Hebrews 2:3-4; 2 Corinthians 12:12). Ministering gifts were given to equip believers for edifying one another. With the New Testament revelation now complete, Scripture becomes the sole test of the authenticity of a man’s message, and confirming gifts of a miraculous nature are no longer necessary to validate a man or his message (1 Corinthians 13:8-12). Miraculous gifts can even be counterfeited by Satan to deceive even believers (1 Corinthians 13:13-14:12; Revelation 13:13-14). The only gifts in operation today are those non-revelatory equipping gifts given for edification (Romans 12:6-8). No one possesses the gift of healing today, but God does hear and answer the prayer of faith and will answer in accordance with His own perfect will for the sick, suffering, and afflicted (Luke 18:1-6; John 5:7-9; 2 Corinthians 12:6-10; James 5:13-16; 1 John 5:14-15)."Resources mentioned:The New Testament Case for Fading Miracles

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• Church, Part 9 of What We Believe, Part 45

  Rapp Report episode 328Discussed from What We Believe?"The Bible teaches the calling of all saints to the work of service (1 Corinthians 15:58; Ephesians 4:12; Revelation 22:12)."The need of the church is to cooperate with God as He accomplishes His purpose in the world. To that end, He gives the church spiritual gifts. First, He gives men chosen for the purpose of equipping the saints for the work of the ministry (Ephesians 4:7-12), and He also gives unique and special spiritual abilities to each member of the body of Christ (Romans 12:5-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-31; 1 Peter 4:10-11)."The calling of all saints to the work of service is the central theme of this episode, emphasizing that the church is not merely a social club but a community where each member is expected to contribute actively. Host Andrew Rappaport and guest Harold Smith delve into the importance of understanding and utilizing spiritual gifts within the body of Christ to fulfill God's purpose. They explore the misconception that church attendance is sufficient, stressing that genuine participation and service are essential for a healthy church environment. The conversation highlights how service should be motivated by a desire to glorify God, rather than seeking personal gain or avoiding potential hurt from past experiences. With a mix of personal anecdotes and theological insights, the hosts encourage listeners to engage in meaningful ways, ultimately fostering a vibrant and functioning church community.Takeaways:The church is not merely a social club; it's a place for service and ministry.Every believer is uniquely gifted to contribute to their local church's mission.Serving in the church requires a mindset shift from receiving to giving.Healthy churches have members actively seeking ways to serve, not just consume.Pastors should not only teach doctrine but also equip their congregation for service.All Christians are called to use their gifts to glorify God and help others.Mentioned in the episode:Are You Encouraging Your Pastor?This podcast is a ministry of Striving for Eternity and all our resources Listen to other podcasts on the Christian Podcast CommunitySupport Striving for Eternity

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