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.

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...

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...

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...

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 en...

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 pe...

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...

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 o...

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 fo...

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 t...

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...

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 belie...

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 o...

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, yo...

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 with...

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 a...

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.

Th...

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...

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, salvation, and evangelism fit together.

Rather than ignoring the diffic...

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 unverified accusations.

This...

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?

In this episode, you'll learn:

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:

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:

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 world.

In th...

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 identify the spiritual forces and idea...

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 cynicism, pointing listeners back to Jesus, Scripture, repentance, and...

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 struggled with doubts, wondered whether you've done enough, or qu...

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 today's ethical debates, and how the Church can respond with bo...

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, discuss how historical narratives influence modern culture...

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...

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 show...

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 the foundations of our culture, this episode will encourage...

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: Does...

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:

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 sexuality, why truth and love must remain together, the difference between righteous an...

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...

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...

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 division.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

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 can be broken, this episode offers biblic...