Live Free with Josh Howerton

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

Did Jesus stay silent on abortion and homosexuality, or are progressive politicians twisting Scripture to fit a modern agenda?   In this LIVE FREE reaction video, Pastor Josh Howerton responds directly to James Talarico’s viral claims on Joe Rogan that Jesus “never talked about” homosexuality or abortion and that Christians have made these issues central for political reasons. Walking carefully through Scripture, this episode dismantles the argument from silence, explains why Jesus’ affirmation of Genesis defines marriage clearly, and shows how the New Testament directly addresses sexual eth

Are Jewish people who don’t believe in Jesus still saved, and what does the Bible really say about Israel, stewardship, and the end times? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham tackle one of the most misunderstood theological questions in Christianity today. Walking through Luke 19 and Romans 9–11, the conversation addresses salvation, ethnicity, faith, and God’s ongoing plan for Israel, cutting through sentimentality, political pressure, and internet half-truths with clear biblical reasoning. The episode also breaks down Jesus’ teaching on s

Does the Bible shape how you feel about culture, or how you see culture?   In this LIVE FREE special reaction episode, Pastor Josh reacts to the GRAMMYs, Billie Eilish’s “No one is illegal on stolen land” moment and Jelly Roll’s bold, Jesus-centered acceptance speech, and uses Scripture to show the difference between using the Bible as a mirror and as a lens (James 1) for evaluating what’s happening in the world. You’ll also hear a clear contrast between performative courage that wins applause and real courage that risks something, plus why Romans 1 explains a culture that celebrates lawless

Are Christians being manipulated by propaganda, and do most believers even realize it?   In this episode, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, Paul Cunningham confront the rise of viral propaganda, emotional manipulation, and misinformation surrounding ICE and cultural outrage, calling Christians to think biblically rather than react emotionally; from there, the conversation moves to Mark 10, where Jesus radically redefines greatness, power, and authority through service and sacrifice, before closing with a clear, no-spin theological examination of Mormonism, addressing whether it aligns wit

Are Christians forbidden from engaging in politics, or is Scripture being selectively weaponized to keep believers silent? In this LIVE FREE special reaction episode, Pastor Josh responds to Rhett & Link’s viral commentary on Christianity and politics, breaking down the biblical errors, cultural assumptions, and spiritual forces underneath the argument that Christians should “stay out of power.” This episode draws a clear line between faithful doubt vs. deliberate deception, and explains why political passivity is not a virtue, but a strategy the Bible warns us about. You’ll learn: - Why J

Most Christians were never taught this.    Jesus didn’t choose soft, passive men, He chose fishermen, zealots, and bold disciples who would change the world. In this episode, we uncover facts about the disciples most Christians don’t know, confront false gospels like Mormonism, respond to anti-ICE church propaganda and protests disrupting worship, and explain why brotherhood, not isolation, is essential to following Jesus. If you’ve wrestled with doubt, cultural Christianity, or how to stand firm without compromise, this episode will challenge you to think biblically, live courageously, and

Does the Bible really stay silent on abortion and “consensual” same-sex relationships, or are we watching Scripture get twisted in real time? In this LIVE FREE special reaction episode, Pastor Josh reacts to Texas State Rep. James Talarico and breaks down the viral claims, the word-games behind them, and what the Bible actually says about life in the womb, sexual ethics, justice, and the role of government vs. the Church. You’ll also hear Josh’s framework for engaging people who are sincerely confused vs. those intentionally deceiving believers—and why Christians can’t afford to be naive rig

Which Bible translation should you actually trust, and are there some translations you should avoid altogether?  In this episode, you’ll learn: How different Bible translations are created and why that matters Which translations are best for reading, studying, and teaching Why some translations weaken clarity and conviction How Jesus used Scripture to defeat temptation Why temptation itself is not sin, and how to recognize the real battle The three predictable ways Satan tempts every person How authority, dominion, and redemption fit into the biblical story Why “It is

In this LIVE FREE Episode, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham tackle two topics Christians are deeply confused about right now: baptism and the Minneapolis ICE shooting. They unpack how biblical discipleship shapes both belief and discernment. This episode will answer frequently "shouted" baptism questions: (Does baptism save you? Should you be re-baptized? What about infant baptism?), and explain what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit. If you feel confused by culture's manufactured outrage and selective footage distorting the ICE shooting narrative, this episode

Why are Venezuelans celebrating the collapse of socialism while American leaders are selling it as “compassion”?    In this Live Free episode, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham pull the curtain back on Mamdani’s “warmth of collectivism,” to expose the real-world cost of a socialist ideology. They contrast empty political promises with the only freedom that actually delivers, Jesus’ declaration from the cross, “It IS finished.” This is a raw, unfiltered conversation about power, control, false hope, and why Christians must think biblically when culture reframes broken i

Is Jesus “progressive,” or is that a modern political remix of an ancient faith? In this LIVE FREE Bonus Episode, Pastor Josh Howerton respond to a viral Daily Show clip and unpack how Scripture is often twisted in election seasons to serve ideologies rather than truth. He breaks down progressive Christianity, expose common misuses of Matthew 25 and Romans 13, clarify the biblical roles of the family, church, and state, and explain why Christian compassion and government authority are not the same thing. If you’ve ever felt confused by political Bible talk, or want to be equipped to test every

This is a special State of the Podcast episode of LIVE FREE. What started as a simple experiment turned into something we never expected: millions of views, listeners from around the world, and real lives being changed through discipleship. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the growth, share the data behind what’s happening, explain the philosophy driving LIVE FREE, and talk honestly about why this is resonating, especially with men. We also unpack what’s coming next, including a new APP designed to move people from consuming content to living it out. This isn’t about views or viral

Was Jesus really an illegal immigrant, or is that a modern political slogan forced onto the Christmas story?    In this LIVE FREE Christmas episode, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham have an honest, thought-provoking conversation that goes beyond the traditional nativity story, uncovering surprising historical and biblical insights like a Roman coin tied to the word Advent, why the opening of John’s Gospel reads like a “new beginning,” and why Jesus was mistaken for a gardener after the resurrection. They also address common questions skeptics ask: why Jesus’ family tr

In this LIVE FREE special episode, Pastor Josh responds to a recent clip featuring Kirk Cameron and his son James discussing annihilationism (the belief that the wicked ultimately cease to exist rather than experience eternal conscious punishment). With pastoral clarity and biblical conviction, this episode walks through what Scripture actually teaches about hell, God’s justice, and why Christian doctrine cannot be reshaped by emotion or cultural pressure. This isn’t an attack, but a thoughtful, Scripture-centric examination of one of the more complex doctrines in the Bible, and why getting it

In this episode of Live Free, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham uncover the real story behind Christmas! 🎄 From the origins of December 25th to the history of Christmas trees and the surprising truth about Santa Claus, we separate fact from myth and show how all these traditions point to the greatest gift ever, Jesus Christ. Learn why many common “holiday myths” aren’t what they seem, and how families today can celebrate with faith, fun, and purpose. Packed with history, biblical insights, and practical tips for your family, this episode will change the way you see the

In this Christmas episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Paul Cunningham, and Carlos Erazo explore the growing interest in the Book of Enoch, angelology, and viral claims that the Bible was “altered” or banned. They walk through the history of the biblical canon, explaining why Jude’s reference to Enoch doesn’t validate the entire book. They dive into the perspective that has gained attention on platforms like Joe Rogan’s podcast to bring clarity to Christians. This episode calls believers to trust God’s Word, resist fear-driven speculation, and focus on the truth & authority already rev

In this timely episode, Pastors Josh Howerton, Paul Cunningham, and Carlos Erazo tackle why so many young men feel lost today: from loneliness and fatherlessness to the pull of online influencers. From confronting Nick Fuentes's distorted worldview to unpacking how isolation and the shaming of masculinity have created the “Lone Ranger Christian”. They offer a clear, biblical path back to community, discipleship, and godly relationships. This conversation challenges men to evaluate the voices shaping them and to pursue wisdom, truth, and accountability.   👍 Like, Comment, & Subscribe for mor

In this eye‑opening episode, Pastors Josh Howerton, Paul Cunningham, and Carlos Erazo explore one of today’s fastest‑growing cultural questions: Are aliens actually demons? Drawing from Scripture, historical patterns, global sightings, and reacting to JD Vance's personal take on UFOs, they unpack the surprising parallels between reported alien encounters and biblical descriptions of spiritual warfare. From deceptive “messengers” to experiences that stop at the name of Jesus, this conversation shines a biblical light on the unseen realm and invites believers to see the world with renewed spiri

In the 50th episode of LIVE FREE, Pastor Josh & Jana Howerton with Paul Cunningham tackle one of Satan's greatest strategies: spiritual procrastination. Learn why responding to God with urgency is vital and how to avoid delaying your relationship with Jesus. They also address common misconceptions about slavery in the Bible and examine the rise of toxic empathy in modern culture. From Felix’s delayed obedience in Acts 24 to the dangers of compassion untethered from truth, this episode challenges Christians to think biblically, engage culture courageously, and live faithfully today. 👍 Like,

In this culturally urgent episode of Live Free, Pastors Josh Howerton, Darren Tyler, and Nolan Tjaden unpack one of the most complex questions facing the Church today: how should believers respond to political division and the rise of competing worldviews? From secular progressivism to radical Islam, we dive into ideologies of power in contrast with the gospel of Jesus, the only message that truly transforms hearts and nations. This episode challenges men, families, and churches to think biblically, lead courageously, and stand firm for truth in a generation searching for its moral compass.

Is Jesus coming back soon? In this explosive episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham unpack 10 Biblical signs of Christ’s return: from global persecution, moral collapse, and the rise of AI to the rebirth of Israel and the spread of socialism in America. What does the Bible really say about the last days, government control, and how believers should live in the middle of it all? Discover how to stay ready, think biblically, and lead courageously when truth is under fire. Don’t get caught off guard. The King is coming.   👍 Like, Comment, & Subscribe for

In this timely episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham tackle three major cultural & spiritual tension points: pride, Halloween, and the rise of Islam. Through Naaman’s story and bold gospel insight, they reveal how humility opens the door to God’s freedom and challenge believers to stand firm in truth amid cultural confusion. From understanding Islam’s political influence to discerning what it means to surrender to Jesus alone, this conversation equips you to walk in conviction, clarity and freedom.   👍 Like, Comment, & Subscribe for more life-changin

How do we KNOW if we are going to Heaven? In this kickoff episode of the Run to Win series, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, Paul Cunningham, and guest Rich Froning dive into what it means to live with eternal purpose. From unpacking the Bema Seat vs. the Great White Throne judgment to reacting to President Trump’s recent comments about Heaven, this episode explores grace, salvation, humility, and how to run your spiritual race with discipline and focus. Don’t miss Rich’s powerful testimony and the challenge to live not for applause, but for the eternal prize. 👍 Like, Comment, & Subscri

In this bonus episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Russell Johnson, Ryan Visconti, and Josh McPherson explore the biblical relationship between Christianity and patriotism. Is loving one’s country Christian nationalism or idolatry? They unpack how believers are not only allowed but called to actively engage in politics and culture. Now is the time to advocate for righteousness, turn back to God, and walk in bold obedience. Drawing on biblical examples and historical context, they challenge the idea that Christians should withdraw from political involvement and instead encourage faithfu

Are you tired of living in fear?! In this episode of Live Free, Pastors Josh Howerton and Paul Cunningham dive into Acts 23 to explore how faith thrives even in fear and confusion. From the Apostle Paul’s bold stand before the Sanhedrin to Pastor Josh’s personal journey through anxiety, this episode unpacks seven practical principles to overcome fear and start living with courage. The pastors also tackle pressing cultural issues, from abortion to immigration offering biblical clarity on justice, compassion, and the role of government. Whether you’re facing internal storms or cultural chaos, th

If the Church is not discipling people, the world will. This week on LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham dive into Acts 22 to reveal how Jesus saves us from both rebellion AND religion. They explore the dangers of spiritual pride, the myth of “boring testimonies,” and provide hope through the timeless truth that God can save anybody. They also expose the hidden LGBTQ+ agenda behind recent controversial Netflix content. This episode will equip parents to disciple their kids wisely in a media-saturated world. This bold conversation will be key to guarding the next

Should America Be a “Christian Nation” Again? In this episode of LIVE FREE, Pastors Josh Howerton, Carlos Erazo, and Paul Cunningham dig into Acts 21 to unpack how God still speaks today and what it really means to obey even when the path ahead is costly. Learn the difference between Old and New Testament prophecy, how to test prophetic words against Scripture, and why spiritual discernment matters more than ever. They also continue the conversation on Christian nationalism and how believers can stand firm in truth without losing sight of grace. If you're wrestling with how faith fits into cul