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 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

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 abou

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 t

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 ques

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

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 pictu

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

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

Predestination. Election. Free will. Calvinism. Arminianism. Few theological conversations generate more questions—or stronger opinions. So what does the Bible actually say, and how should Christians respond when faithful believers reach different conclusions? Pastors Carlos and Paul begin in 2 Timothy 2 with a practical conversation about spiritual grit, discipline, and the difference between simply trying to follow Jesus and intentionally training to become more like Him. Then they dive into one of Christianity’s most debated subjects: how God’s sovereignty, election, human responsibility,

What should Christians do when a viral accusation against a pastor suddenly takes over the internet? Believe it? Share it? Defend the pastor? Or stay out of it entirely? In this bonus episode of the LIVE FREE Podcast, Pastors Josh, Carlos, and Paul unpack the viral criticism surrounding Pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell and use it to address a much bigger issue: how Christians should respond to accusations, online mobs, and criticism of spiritual leaders. The conversation explores the biblical tension between holding pastors accountable and refusing to participate in gossip, slander, or unverifi

In Episode 90 of the LIVE FREE Podcast, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham uncover surprising lessons hidden inside some of the Bible passages we usually skim—including the stories of Mark, Demas, Rufus, and Quartus. Their lives reveal powerful truths about failure, restoration, friendship, legacy, and lifelong faithfulness. The conversation also gets intensely practical: Who are the people carrying your mat when you're struggling? Is it biblical to pray for God's judgment on someone? And why does Scripture teach that Christians can approach God directly through Jesus?

Pastors Josh, Carlos, and Paul unpack Paul’s words to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1 and trace his transformation from a fearful young leader into a faithful, courageous pastor. They also compare the major Christian views of baptism in the Holy Spirit, explain what changed between the old and new covenants, and discuss why every believer should continually seek the Spirit’s filling. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Christians should respond to wars, disasters, and uncertainty Why fear should never become the controlling force in your decisions How Scripture—not feelings—helps you discer

Should Christians legally oppose a mosque being built in their city? The answer raises difficult questions about religious liberty, biblical conviction, civic responsibility, and the proper role of government. In this bonus episode, Pastors Josh, Carlos, and Paul examine the controversy surrounding a proposed mosque expansion in McKinney, Texas. They explore how Christians can engage local government lawfully and wisely while remaining committed to sharing the gospel with Muslim neighbors. In this episode, you’ll learn: How the First Amendment has shaped modern religious-liberty laws

Who is shaping your faith—and whose faith are you helping shape? Spiritual maturity requires more than consuming sermons and Christian content. It grows through relationships with faithful believers who can model, correct, encourage, and walk alongside us. Pastors Josh, Carlos, and Paul unpack the relationship between Paul and Timothy, explain how to find or become a spiritual parent, and examine whether apostles still exist in the church today. They also respond to cultural ideas about parental authority and show why Christians must use Scripture as the lens through which they understand the

What if spiritual warfare isn’t only personal—but can also influence entire cultures and nations? In this candid and provocative conversation, Pastors Josh, Carlos, and Paul explore how sin and spiritual deception can work their way into societal structures, cultural values, and public policy. They examine religious liberty, immigration, competing belief systems, and the responsibility of Christians to recognize values that conflict with Scripture. This episode is not about viewing people as the enemy. It is about remembering that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood” and learning to i

Spiritual warfare is real—but what does the Bible actually teach about fighting it? In this episode, Pastors Josh, Carlos, and Paul break down the armor of God piece by piece and show how truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, the gospel, Scripture, and prayer help believers stand firm against the enemy’s schemes. They also explore where Satan came from, whether he can read your thoughts, and how Christians should evaluate dramatic spiritual manifestations and deliverance ministries. This conversation offers a biblical framework that avoids both fear-driven superstition and dismissive cynici

Can a Christian lose their salvation? What does the Bible actually teach about eternal security, perseverance, and genuine saving faith? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Paul Cunningham, and Carlos Erazo tackle one of Christianity's most debated questions by walking through Scripture—not opinions. Together they examine John 10, Romans 8, Hebrews 6, Hebrews 10, James 5, and other key passages to explain the difference between genuine faith and superficial belief, why difficult warning passages matter, and how believers can have true assurance in Christ. If you've ever stru

Can Christians defend biblical truth without fear—and with compassion? In this powerful episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Carlos Erazo, Paul Cunningham, and special guest Katy Faust tackle some of today's most difficult conversations surrounding marriage, same-sex parenting, IVF, surrogacy, and children's rights. Rather than beginning with politics or personal preferences, they start with God's design for the family and ask a foundational question: What is truly best for children? Discover why Scripture calls believers to speak the truth in love, how a child-centered biblical worldview reshapes t

Was everything you learned about the Crusades wrong? Why has the history of Christianity and Islam been so misunderstood? And what can history teach us about today's cultural and geopolitical challenges? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastor Josh Howerton sits down with historian and bestselling author Raymond Ibrahim for a thought-provoking conversation about the history of Christianity and Islam, the Crusades, the rise of Islamic empires, religious persecution, and the way history shapes our understanding of today's world. Together, they examine common misconceptions about the Crusades, di

Are you running the Christian race well—and will the next generation be ready to carry the baton? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Carlos Erazo and Josh Howerton unpack what it means to build a faith that lasts. From using culture to communicate biblical truth and seeing Jesus proclaimed across the nations, to removing the weights slowing you down and intentionally passing your faith to your kids, this conversation gets practical about lifelong discipleship. In this episode you'll discover: • Why the Christian life is more than a marathon—it's a relay race • How to identify the we

Can you really know God’s will for your life, or is it something you’re supposed to guess your way into? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastor Josh Howerton, Pastor Paul Cunningham, and Carlos Erazo dive deep into Exodus 3, the burning bush, the name of God, and the calling of Moses. From the meaning of Yahweh to the biblical framework for discovering your calling, this conversation unpacks how God reveals Himself, redirects our priorities, and calls ordinary people into eternal purpose. They also discuss the gospel hidden throughout the Exodus story, why Jesus shows up in the Old Testament,

What if much of what you've been told about America's founding isn't the whole story? As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Pastor Josh Howerton sits down with historian Tim Barton to examine six of the most common myths surrounding the nation's history. From Christopher Columbus and the Founding Fathers to Christianity's influence on America's founding and the role of believers in public life, this conversation dives into original documents, historical evidence, and firsthand accounts that challenge popular narratives. Whether you're passionate about history, faith, or understanding

Do all religions lead to God? Are Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Buddhism, and other faiths really teaching the same thing? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham are joined by renowned Christian apologist Dr. Frank Turek to tackle one of the most important questions a person can ask: What is true? Together, they explore why so many religions exist, whether all faiths ultimately point to the same destination, and the major differences between Christianity and the world's largest religions. They also address one of the most common objections to Christianity: Doe

What happens when Christian conviction collides with cultural pressure?In this bonus episode of Live Free, Pastor Josh Howerton reacts to the MLB Pride Night controversy involving San Francisco Giants players who wrote a Bible verse on their hats instead of participating in Pride messaging. Josh explores what this moment reveals about faith, courage, religious freedom, and the challenge of standing firm without losing compassion.In This Episode: Why the Giants Pride Night controversy exploded nationally The meaning behind Genesis 9 and the rainbow in Scripture The difference between

Can someone be forgiven if they never apologize? What is the unforgivable sin? And did Noah's Flood really happen? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham are joined by New Testament scholar and apologist Dr. Jeremiah Johnston as they explore biblical forgiveness, the danger of bitterness, the true meaning of the unforgivable sin, and whether Noah's Ark and the Flood can be trusted as real history. Drawing from Scripture, archaeology, ancient civilizations, and the teachings of Jesus, they examine the evidence and explain why these topics still matter today.

Can Christians stand for truth without becoming angry, harsh, or compromising? In a culture where conversations about identity, sexuality, personal freedom, and truth dominate headlines and social media feeds, many believers find themselves pulled between two extremes: conviction without compassion or compassion without conviction. In this episode, Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham tackle some of today's most challenging cultural questions while exploring one of the most misunderstood emotions in the Christian life—anger. Through Scripture and practical wisdom, they discuss God's design for s

What if the worst thing that ever happened to you was actually God's pathway to something greater? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham wrap up their 46-week journey through the Book of Acts by unpacking the powerful conclusion of the Apostle Paul's life. From shipwrecks and snake bites to imprisonment and eventual martyrdom, Paul's story reveals a truth every Christian needs to hear: God can turn a crash into a calling. The conversation then shifts to one of the most controversial topics facing Christians today: voting. How should believers

What do you do when obedience to God leads straight into pain, resistance, and uncertainty? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and special guest Jonathan Pokluda unpack one of the most powerful leadership chapters in the Bible: Acts 27. From Paul leading through a shipwreck while chained as a prisoner, to spiritual warfare, suffering, revival among Gen Z, dating, purity, and denominational differences, this conversation is packed with biblical wisdom for all trying to stay faithful in a chaotic world. How does God use pain to build leaders? And what do you do w

Why are there so many Christian denominations? Do the differences actually matter? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham break down the biggest Christian denominations, including Catholics, Protestants, Orthodox, Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, and Pentecostals, while explaining what truly separates them theologically. This conversation clarifies essential doctrines, denominational differences, church history, biblical authority, and how believers can wisely choose a healthy church without falling into confusion or unnecessary divisio

Are generational curses actually real—or is that idea being misunderstood? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Paul Cunningham, and Carlos Erazo unpack what the Bible really says about family sin patterns, spiritual warfare, demonic oppression, and the freedom believers have in Christ. Through powerful passages like Exodus 34, Ezekiel 18, and the story of Josiah, they reveal how generational strongholds may influence families—but through Jesus, they do not have to define your future. If you’ve ever wondered whether family dysfunction, addiction, abuse, or spiritual darkness

What if avoiding politics isn’t protecting the Church, but surrendering to the culture? In this LIVE FREE bonus episode, Pastors Josh Howerton, Ryan Visconti, and Josh McPherson tackle one of the most pressing questions facing Christians today: Should the Church avoid politics, or is civic engagement part of biblical discipleship? Through a powerful conversation on the Great Commission, cultural leadership, and Christian statesmanship, they unpack why silence in the public square may actually hinder long-term flourishing for families, churches, and future generations. This episode challenge

Is UFO disclosure preparing the world for truth, or setting Christians up for deception? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton and Paul Cunningham unpack Acts 25–26, Paul’s bold witness before political leaders, and what his example teaches Christians about courage, evangelism, and using every opportunity to share the gospel. They also celebrate 741 baptisms at Lakepointe and share practical ways everyday believers can live on mission in their workplace, business, and daily life. Then the conversation turns to UFOs, aliens, UAP disclosure, demons, angels, and biblical cosmo

Who decided which books are in your Bible? Pastor Paul Cunningham responds to Father Mike Schmitz's case for the Apocrypha, walking through the historical record, early church fathers, and the canon that Jesus himself recognized and quoted. This isn't an attack, it's a careful, evidence-based conversation about one of the most consequential questions in all of Christianity: which books are truly the Word of God? From Jerome's own doubts about the books he translated, to what the Dead Sea Scrolls actually reveal, to the stunning detail hidden in Matthew 23, this episode gives you the biblical

What happens when suffering, politics, and moral confusion collide? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham tackle two of the most critical doctrines for modern Christians: God’s sovereignty and the role of conscience in a collapsing culture. Through Acts 23, Romans 8, Titus 1, and 1 Timothy 4, they unpack how believers can trust God’s control over suffering while developing the moral clarity necessary to stand firm in truth. From free will, to abortion, civic engagement, suffering, and the dangers of a weak or seared conscience, this conversati

Did the Founding Fathers actually want Christianity out of government, or is that the biggest historical lie ever told? Pastor Josh Howerton sits down with Tim Barton of WallBuilders to go straight to the original documents: the Aiken Bible endorsed by Congress, Jefferson's original draft of the Declaration of Independence arguing against slavery, the prayer proclamations of John Hancock, and the letter that gave us the phrase "separation of church and state." What you were taught in school and what the primary sources actually say are two very different things. This conversation doesn't just

What does it actually look like to share your faith with someone like Jordan Peterson, and what do four assassination attempts on a sitting president reveal about the state of the American soul? Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham sit down with Pastor David Nasser for one of the most wide-ranging conversations in Live Free. From Josh's eye-opening trip to Greece retracing Paul's footsteps in Acts, to the seven I AM statements of Jesus, to the difference between a presenting cause and a root disease, this episode moves from theology to culture to the street-level art of win

Do Catholics and Protestants actually worship the same Jesus?  Pastors Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham sit down with apologist and author Dr. Frank Turek (I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist) to unpack one of the most personal and theologically charged conversations in Live Free history. Frank was there the day Charlie Kirk was assassinated, and he shares what happened, what Charlie believed, and how the conspiracy theories impact his legacy. From there, the conversation digs into the real differences between Catholicism and Protestantism...not to divide, but to clarify what the Bibl

In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham tackle one of the most confusing questions Christians face today: What’s actually sin… and what’s just man-made rules? Walking through Matthew 23, they expose the danger of hypocrisy and legalism—then take it straight into real-life debates around alcohol, tattoos, and weed. Is it actually freedom… or are we just calling it that? This conversation will challenge how you think about obedience, influence, and what it really means to follow Jesus in today’s culture. In this episode, you’ll learn: The difference between bi

In this LIVE FREE bonus episode, Pastor Josh Howerton reacts to a viral Tucker Carlson clip addressing President Donald Trump, Islam, and Christianity—and it opens up a much bigger conversation than politics. This episode dives into how Christians should think biblically in a culture full of noise, strong opinions, and spiritual confusion. What happens when faith, politics, and culture collide? Should Christians mock other religions? And how do you stay grounded when influential voices start blurring truth? More than a reaction, this is a call to discernment—learning to use the Bible as both

Are we actually living in the last days? And what if most Christians have misunderstood the end times entirely? In this special episode of LIVE FREE, Pastor Josh Howerton sits down with John Bevere to unpack the Second Coming of Christ, the rapture, and the rise of global deception. From shocking biblical timelines to the possibility of a “strong delusion,” this conversation connects Scripture to what’s happening in the world right now. But this isn’t about fear or speculation, it’s about urgency. Because if Jesus is returning sooner than we think, it changes everything about how we live today

In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham tackle one of the most debated topics in Christianity: the end times. Walking through key Scriptures, they cut through confusion around Israel, prophecy, and global events—bringing clarity to what Jesus actually said about His return. Instead of fear or speculation, this conversation calls believers to think biblically, reject cultural noise, and live ready. From Romans 9–11 to today’s geopolitical tensions, the team addresses real questions about Israel, Judaism, and the rise of global religions—challenging

Why was Jaden Ivey reportedly fired after refusing to celebrate what he called unrighteousness, and what does that reveal about the cost of Christian conviction in today’s culture? In this episode, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham respond to the controversy surrounding Jaden Ivey, unpack how believers should stand with courage and wisdom under pressure, and show how the resurrection of Jesus changes the way we read the entire Bible. From cultural backlash to Christ in all of Scripture, this conversation will challenge you to think biblically and live boldly. In this ep

Is the Shroud of Turin really the burial cloth of Jesus, or the greatest hoax in history? Pastors Josh Howerton and Carlos Erazo sit down with Dr. Jeremiah Johnston to examine the powerful evidence, scientific analysis, and how it aligns with the Gospel accounts of the crucifixion and resurrection. This conversation moves from skepticism to faith as they unpack the brutality of the cross, fulfilled prophecy, and what the Shroud ultimately means for your view of Jesus. In this episode, you’ll learn: What the Shroud of Turin is and why it matters The strongest evidence for and against

Is hell real or have we completely misunderstood what Jesus actually taught? This episode cuts through the noise, exposes cultural myths, and tackles the question no one wants to answer: How can a loving God send people to hell?   In this episode, you’ll learn: • What Jesus really taught about hell and eternity • The difference between Hades, Gehenna, and final judgment • Why purgatory and universalism don’t align with Scripture • How to respond to “a loving God wouldn’t send people to hell” • What happens to people who never hear the gospel • Why understanding hell fuels urgency for e

In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Carlos Erazo and Paul Cunningham tackle two fascinating and often misunderstood topics: how Christians should think about politics and the mysterious Nephilim in Genesis 6. Looking at Matthew 21, they unpack Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem and the powerful contrast between earthly political power and the kingdom Jesus came to establish. The conversation challenges two common errors Christians make today—treating politics as ultimate hope or ignoring it altogether—and explains how believers can engage culture while keeping their allegiance firmly root

Is God bringing revival to Iran? And what does honoring the Sabbath actually look like for Christians today?   In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham tackle two powerful topics shaping faith and culture right now. First, they unpack Luke 6 and the biblical meaning of the Sabbath—why God built rhythms of work and rest into creation, how the Pharisees turned the Sabbath into legalistic religion, and why Jesus declaring Himself the “Lord of the Sabbath” changes how believers understand rest today. The conversation explores how Sabbath is not just

Can you really talk to God like He’s your Father? And what happens when He doesn’t answer your prayers?   In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham dive deep into what it really means that Jesus tore the veil. From the Lord’s Prayer and unanswered prayer to spiritual gifts like speaking in tongues, this conversation unpacks how access to the Father changes everything.   But the team didn't stop there...they also tackled a pressing cultural question: If Jesus reigns as Lord, how should Christians think about rights, government, and public policy

In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastor Josh Howerton and Jana Howerton dive into one of the most culturally controversial and biblically clear topics: God’s design for marriage. They unpack the theological foundation of headship and helpership from Genesis 2 and Ephesians 5, explaining why loving leadership and respectful support are not oppressive ideas, but protective ones. Rather than competing roles, Scripture presents marriage as a complementary covenant designed for strength, stability, and spiritual growth. The conversation moves into practical and often avoided topics including sexual i

In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham tackle one of the most debated theological questions in Christianity: Does the Bible actually teach predestination? They walk through key Scriptures, clarify common misconceptions, and explain why God’s sovereignty and human responsibility are not enemies. Rather than dividing believers, a right understanding of this doctrine should strengthen confidence in evangelism and deepen trust in God’s character.    The conversation then moves to Luke 15 and the heart of the Father in the parables of the lost sheep