Behind The Pulpit

What happens when God’s people keep repeating the same story with different idols? In Ezekiel 20, Israel is forced to look back at generations of rebellion, mercy, and rescue—and to confront the ways they continue carrying the same divided heart into the present. Through it all, one phrase keeps returning: God acts “for the sake of His name.”

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the guys unpack why God refuses to answer the elders’ questions, how hidden idols can survive underneath outward religious activity, and what Israel’s repeated history teaches us about our own tendency to forget, r...

Where do we look for security when the world around us feels unstable—and who do we blame when life goes wrong? In Ezekiel 17 and 18, those questions collide as Israel is warned not to put its ultimate trust in political power and then confronted with the responsibility each person bears for his or her own choices.

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the guys unpack what it means to “trust the planter, not the eagle,” why caring about politics is different from placing our hope in politics, and how inherited wounds can be real without becoming an excuse...

How far can betrayal go before grace runs out? Ezekiel 16 uses some of the most graphic language in Scripture to portray Israel’s unfaithfulness, but underneath the shocking imagery is a deeply personal picture of covenant love, betrayal, judgment, and ultimately redemption. The guys unpack why Ezekiel speaks so bluntly, what the chapter reveals about the ugliness of sin, and how the judgment Israel deserves ultimately points forward to Christ bearing shame and death in our place. 

Along the way, they explore Jerusalem’s pagan origins, the meaning of “abomination,” the imagery of God covering His people with a ga...

What happens when we put God’s name on our own agenda? In Ezekiel 13, the prophet confronts false teachers who claim divine authority for words God never gave them, exposing the danger of spiritual identity theft, false assurance, and leaders who whitewash cracks instead of repairing what is actually broken.

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the guys unpack what Ezekiel’s warning means for Christians today, how to discern between God’s revealed will and our own plans, and why both spiritual leaders and those listening to them need to practice careful discernment. They also tackle a majo...

What does global missions look like when the whole church sees itself as part of the mission? Fresh off Millington Baptist Church’s Missions Conference, Pastor Bob sits down with WorldVenture President Jeff Denlinger and Vice President David Love to talk about the changing landscape of global missions, reaching unreached peoples, and why the local church remains central to sending and supporting missionaries.

They also explore WorldVenture’s 360 approach to ministry, how Christians can use their professions and skills for the sake of the gospel, why younger missionaries are increasingly drawn to hard places, and what mission orga...

What does your life communicate about the God you claim to follow? In Ezekiel 3–5, God gives the prophet a series of strange, unforgettable sign acts designed to show Israel just how seriously they had misrepresented Him. From a model siege to lying on his side, rationed bread, and shaved hair, Ezekiel’s prophetic street theater makes one thing clear: how God’s people live matters.

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the guys unpack those unusual signs, Ezekiel’s calling as a watchman, the reality of judgment, and the hope found in God preserving a remnant. They also tak...

What happens when our loyalty to God becomes divided? As Glory Departs, Glory Returns continues through Ezekiel, the vision gets darker: Israel’s worship has been compromised, God’s glory is moving away from the temple, and the question becomes uncomfortably personal. The idols may look different today, but the temptation to trust created things more than the Creator hasn’t gone anywhere.

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the guys wrestle with what modern idolatry can actually look like, why God’s slow departure from Jerusalem reveals something surprising about His mercy, and how Christians should examine...

Behind the Pulpit returns for Season 5 as we begin a brand-new sermon series through Ezekiel: Glory Departs, Glory Returns. Following Sunday’s opening message, “The Weight of Glory,” Pastors Dave and Bob go beyond the sermon to explore the questions, themes, and implications that come with stepping into one of the strangest and most powerful books in Scripture.

As our journey through Ezekiel begins, what happens when everything familiar is stripped away and God suddenly reveals Himself in a way no one expected? What does Ezekiel’s vision show us about who God is, where He is in seaso...

The season four finale is here! This week, Tim, Pastor Bob, and Pastor Dave recap their trip to the Colson Center National Conference in Knoxville, sharing stories from the road, memorable speakers, and some of the biggest ideas that shaped the weekend. From Os Guinness and Carl Trueman to Chloe Cole, Cliff Knechtle, and discussions on AI, evangelism, culture, and the future of the church, the conversation covers everything from civilizational moments to giant Rubik’s Cubes. The guys also discuss current events, reflect on the book of 2 Timothy as the series comes to a close, hand out the in...

Something weird is happening at the intersection of headlines and faith: UAP photos drop, “alien disclosure” talk spikes, and some people insist the next release could rattle the church. We don’t bite the panic bait. We walk through the main Christian reactions, talk honestly about skepticism toward government narratives, and then plant our feet where they belong, on the resurrection of Jesus. If Christ rose, every other claim has to fit around that truth, not replace it.

From there, we shift into 2 Timothy 3 and get personal about discernment in an age of AI-generated content, viral theology clips...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the pastors open with hydration talk, Proverbs 4:25 in the Weekly Warm-Up, and another round of Book War as the season moves toward a possible clinch.

In the news segment, the discussion looks at a developing mRNA immunotherapy treatment for pancreatic cancer and how Christians can think about medical advancement, common grace, and the hope of healing. The pastors also respond to the recent White House Correspondents’ Dinner shooting and the evil of political violence.

The sermon recap covers two messages from 2 Timothy, focusing on quarreling, kindness, repentance, sexual integrity, hi...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the pastors reconnect after a couple weeks away, reflecting on recent travel, time at Midwestern Seminary, and a few moments from life and ministry. Book War continues as the competition tightens and the standings shift heading into another key round.

In the news segment, the discussion centers on a recent Supreme Court decision involving conversion therapy bans, raising questions about free speech, religious liberty, and the role of government in counseling practices. The conversation also touches briefly on the Artemis II mission and a tragic local shooting, considering how Christians think...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the pastors look ahead to Holy Week at MBC, including Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. They walk through what makes this week so central to the Christian faith and invite listeners to intentionally slow down and reflect on the cross and resurrection as a church family.

In the news segment, the conversation focuses on James Talarico’s recent theological comments in the public square, including claims about God being non-binary, the Bible being pro-choice, and the priority of the red letters over the rest of Scripture. The discussion also in...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the pastors talk through a few major current issues, including the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the question of replacement theology, the church’s relationship to Israel, and a recent California case dealing with parental rights and school policies around gender identity. The episode also touches on anti-Semitism, public policy in New Jersey, and a quick update from the Paralympic sled hockey world.

The sermon recap focuses on the opening of the new 2 Timothy series, especially Paul’s final charge to guard the gospel, pass the faith to the next generation, and thin...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the pastors jump back in after a short break with conversation around current events, including the conflict with Iran, the framework of just war, the theological background of Shia Islam, and a few of the major Christian views surrounding Israel and the end times. The episode also includes discussion of Jason Thacker’s recent visit, reflections on AI, and a new round of Book War.

A pair of listener questions lead into discussion on spiritual gifts and spiritual fruit, the difference between outward gifting and inward maturity, and how Christians should th...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, the pastors touch on winter weather, travel stories, and recent cultural moments tied to the Super Bowl, halftime shows, commercials, and Olympic coverage. The conversation includes reflections on public messaging, artistic expression, and how Christians think through what they’re seeing without flattening everything into easy conclusions.

The episode also spends time responding to listener questions and sermon follow-ups, working through Trinitarian theology, Jesus’ cry from the cross, disability and suffering, and key themes from John 5 and John 9. Sunday’s sermon on healing, faith, and God’s purposes in suffering shapes much of...

Behind the Pulpit returns!  Pastor Bob and Pastor Dave cover a wide range of topics touching both ministry life and larger cultural conversations. The episode includes reflections on winter weather and recent travel, updates from global missions through World Venture, and thoughtful engagement with current cultural movements shaping conversations around marriage, family, and children’s rights.

The discussion also takes up several listener questions, working through theological issues related to disability, suffering, God’s sovereignty, and how Scripture holds together brokenness and hope. Familiar segments return as well, including the Weekly Warm-Up, Book War, and Theology Sprint.
<...

Welcome Back! The episode opens with the return of the Weekly Warm-Up, unpacking Proverbs 4:18 and reflecting on faithfulness, character, and long obedience over time. From there, the discussion moves through current events, ethical questions, and the responsibility Christians carry when navigating complex cultural moments—especially when quick conclusions are tempting but wisdom requires patience.

The conversation then turns to difficult and timely issues at the intersection of faith and public life. The pastors wrestle with the sanctity of human life, disability and dignity, moral failure in Christian leadership, and how believers should think about justice, grace, accountability, an...

Behind the Pulpit returns for the new year with Pastor Bob and Pastor Dave back at the table, easing into 2026 with humor, reflection, and a wide-ranging In the News conversation. From holiday recaps and cultural commentary to a substantive discussion on Stranger Things, global politics, socialism, Venezuela, and notable public figures engaging faith, the episode models how Christians can think carefully, critically, and charitably about the stories shaping our moment. The Book War also resumes, with two very different recommendations aimed at helping believers think more deeply about truth, limits, and faithfulness.

In the sermon recap, the...

Merry Christmas from Behind the Pulpit. In this special Christmas Day episode, Pastor Bob and Pastor Dave reflect on the rhythms, humor, and joy of the season as they welcome listeners wherever and whenever they’re tuning in. The episode features a festive edition of the Book War, the return of Will It Preach? with Christmas-themed sermon illustrations, and the annual Prop of the Year awards—highlighting some of the most memorable (and chaotic) moments from the pulpit in 2025.

In the sermon recap, the conversation centers on Isaiah 61 and Isaiah 62, tracing the hope, restoration, and renewal promised thro...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, Pastor Bob is joined once again by Pastor Dave as the team kicks off the episode with a brand-new Weekly Warm-Up, reflecting on Romans 12:15 and what it means to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep—especially during the Christmas season. From there, the conversation moves into In the News, where the pastors thoughtfully engage recent cultural and theological headlines, followed by another installment of the Book War, offering recommendations that help Christians think more clearly about truth, theology, and the world we’re living in.

In the...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, Pastor Bob hosts a skeleton-crew episode with Tim while both Pastor Dave and Noah are out. The two reflect on the polar vortex, pond hockey season, and the surprising evolution of the Fresh Wave podcast, now a short-form youth devotional series. In their news segment, they tackle listener-requested controversy around Skillet’s metal rendition of O Come, O Come Emmanuel, discussing music styles, worship philosophy, and why genre debates continue to divide Christians. There’s also a ceasefire in the Book War, some ad-read jazz flair, and a few laughs courtesy of the ever...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, Pastor Bob leads a post-Thanksgiving episode with Tim and Noah, comparing holiday meals, sharing stories from family gatherings, and laughing through a friendly “turkey truce” with one of our most dedicated listeners. The team also gives a spoiler-free reaction to Stranger Things Volume 1 before moving into major headlines—from AI-driven shopping scams to the Supreme Court case involving First Choice Women’s Resource Center. Add in updates on the City Relief Packing Party, Christmas Eve services, and another round of Book War (with rising concerns about ballot stuffing), and it’s a lively start to D...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, Pastor Bob is joined by Pastor Dave and special guest Amy Huber for a lively post–Vision Sunday conversation. With Thanksgiving around the corner, the trio swaps stories about thawing turkeys, travel delays, and tryptophan myths before diving into cultural commentary ranging from New Jersey’s latest parental-rights debates to robotics on the battlefield and ongoing developments in Ukraine. They also revisit their Book War picks, talk outreach, celebrate upcoming Advent resources, and even critique Hollywood’s newest releases — all while enjoying plenty of good-natured baton humor inspired by Vision Sunday.
The team als...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, Pastors Dave and Bob are finally back together at the table — just in time for Thanksgiving season. After a couple of missed Mondays, Dave returns with fresh energy, while Bob catches him up on everything he missed. The two dive into a wide spread of stories, from “new fears unlocked” about tick-borne red-meat allergies and global surveillance concerns, to baseball gambling scandals, drone mysteries, and even professional hockey’s surprising innocence. Add in a lively Book War matchup, some banter about worship speed remixes, and a few laughs over giant Reese’s cups, and it’s a...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, Pastor Bob hosts a special “lightning round” edition with guest co-host Noah Graves, who steps in for  Pastor Dave as he takes a week off. The trio keeps things fast-paced and lively, covering everything from government shutdown updates and Supreme Court rulings to Mars missions and a few hilarious travel memories. The episode also features rapid-fire book recommendations, audience questions, and a surprise set of Theology Sprint challenges that test Pastor Bob’s biblical reflexes.

In their audience Q&A segment, Bob, Tim, and Noah tackle two deep theological questions submitted by list...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, Pastor Bob is joined by Tim, who steps in as guest host while Pastor Dave recovers at home. Together they dive into a mix of topics — from fall weather trends and winter predictions to reflections on marathon season, baseball’s thrilling World Series finish, and the ongoing issue of Christian persecution around the world. The episode blends humor and insight, complete with the latest Book War results and a surprise Theology Sprint question from Pastor Dave that keeps everyone on their toes.

Listeners will also hear an exclusive interview with Youth Dire...

In a packed episode, the team reacts to headlines ranging from NBA betting scandals to AI superintelligence and global persecution of Christians—including a sobering look at the church in Nigeria. Pastor Dave and Pastor Bob also discuss Joe Rogan’s recent comments about attending church, sparking a deeper conversation about why the local church still matters in today’s culture. Add in a World Series rooting interest (for Don Mattingley!), a Louvre heist update, and a spirited theology sprint on cults, and you’ve got a full slate of news, worldview, and witty banter.

But the heart of...

After a full weekend of ministry—including Trunk or Treat and a powerful baptism Sunday—the team returns to reflect on Isaiah 24–25. Pastor Bob unpacks this “mini-apocalypse” with its sobering picture of judgment and its stunning vision of a future feast on God’s holy mountain. With rich imagery of sour grapes and aged wine, the pastors explore what it means to live as fruitful people in a broken world, rooted in hope and connected to the true vine.

The conversation also touches on a mix of cultural headlines and theological reflection. From Shohei Ohtani’s case for baseball g...

Pastors Bob and Dave are joined by special guest Pastor Chris Tenny from Silicon Valley for a wide-ranging conversation on theology, technology, and cultural shifts. They respond to the breaking news of a potential ceasefire in Israel, explore how artificial intelligence is shaping how we think about the soul, and reflect on the spiritual tension between innovation and incarnation.

They also dive into listener questions on biblical tree imagery, the fear of the Lord, and whether Golgotha has ties to Goliath. Add in a Book War shake-up, millennial lions and lambs, and a few questionable holiday deserts—an...

This week, the team debriefs a massive ministry weekend featuring guest speakers Monique Duson and Krista Bontrager from the Center for Biblical Unity. From panel discussions to powerful teachings on biblical justice and racial unity, the weekend was full of rich insights and honest questions—and maybe just a little too much leftover bagel.

Dave and Bob recap the key themes, unpack Krista’s four pillars of justice (evidence, truth-telling, impartiality, and accountability), and explore how Isaiah 9 connects justice, righteousness, and messianic hope. You’ll also hear how God might be working in Gen Z through campus reviva...

This week on Behind the Pulpit, Pastor Bob and Pastor Dave explore Isaiah 7, looking at fear versus faith, King Ahaz’s misplaced trust, and God’s promise of “Immanuel” even in the middle of failure. They unpack the surprising euphemism behind “cover your feet” and talk about why the prophets sometimes used shocking language to get people’s attention.

The conversation also covers a heavy news cycle, including a tragic attack on a house of worship in Michigan, the passing of Voddie Baucham, and the ongoing persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Bob and Dave reflect on how to pray, how t...

This week, Pastor Bob and Pastor Dave dive deep into Isaiah 6, God’s holiness, Isaiah’s life-changing encounter, and what it means to say “Here I am, send me.” They also reflect on the massive Charlie Kirk memorial service, offering pastoral insight on faith, politics, and forgiveness in a moment that has captured the nation’s attention. Plus, hear about the Truth Rising documentary, our own upcoming documentary: In the Wake of Helene, and yes...the beloved Book War is back.

And that’s just the first half. We’ll show you how to join the Millington Bible Memory g...

This week’s Behind the Pulpit takes a sober look at the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Bob and Dave wrestle with how Christians should respond: rejecting political violence without qualification, guarding our words, and leaving space for grief and dialogue. They also discuss the impact of tech on kids, the need for civil discourse, and the hope of gospel witness in a divided culture.

Pastor Dave recaps Isaiah 1 and God’s call to “seek justice, correct oppression,” with a striking “shalom tower” illustration. The team shares ways to put faith into action, and invites listeners to memorize Isaiah 1:17...

Season 4 is HERE, and Behind the Pulpit is back with all the energy. Pastor Bob and Pastor Dave kick things off with summer stories: Blue Ridge hikes, ballgames, and family time—before diving headfirst into the headlines: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement, a senator’s troubling words about rights and government, and Donald Trump’s comments about earning his way into heaven. From memes of “Philly’s Karen” to clarifying the gospel of grace, nothing is off-limits.

The crew also brings back fan favorites: the Great Book War (Vote Below), an audience question on Sheol and h...

It’s VBS week at MBC, and the Behind the Pulpit crew is back, armed (literally), and ready for one final episode before the summer break. Pastor Dave, Pastor Bob, and special guest Oliver reflect on the fight of faith, share insights from the conclusion of our Divine Blueprint sermon series, and offer a tribute to faithful leader John MacArthur. Plus: an inside look at the new Wednesdays in the Word devotional series, a theological deep dive into 2 Thessalonians, and a candid conversation on standing firm in faith—whether you’re in the pulpit or the public school cafeteria.

It’s the penultimate episode of season 3, and the Book War is heating up. Pastor Dave has a chance to clinch the title, but can Pastor Bob mount a late-season comeback? Before the big reveal, the pastors turn their attention to a heartbreaking national tragedy: the deadly Texas flood that devastated Camp Mystic. With personal ties to the story, Dave and Bob reflect on grief, loss, and the quiet power of faith amid chaos, including the incredible account of a Jersey-born Coast Guard hero who saved over 160 lives.

From sorrow to ecclesiology, the conversation shifts to the di...

Pastor Bob is back! After a whirlwind trip to Colorado filled with board meetings, whitewater rafting, and a little In-N-Out Burger, Bob returns to the mic with fresh insights—and a fresh shirt. In this packed episode, the team dives into the spiritual significance of contentment and the deceptive pull of wealth, unpacking 1 Timothy 6 and its relevance in our consumer-driven world.

They also explore the hot-button topic of current events in light of biblical prophecy, offering a balanced and thoughtful take on Ezekiel 38, Israel, and end-times speculation. Plus: a new book war showdown, commentary on socialism in NY...

With Pastor Bob on vacation, Amy Huber steps in to co-host this packed episode featuring special guest Dr. John White, a longtime world partner serving in Ukraine. We kick things off with summer heat, sunscreen, and a quick look at the NBA Finals before diving into some of the weekend’s major headlines—from rising tensions in the Middle East to a Supreme Court decision with implications for families and faith.

Dr. White shares powerful on-the-ground insight into the ongoing war in Ukraine, how the church is responding, and what it really looks like to be a miss...

Pastor Bob is away on vacation so Noah and Tim step in to help Pastor Dave tackle this week's episode.  It was a crazy weekend of news headlines and the gang covers it all.  This weeks sermon discussion is surrounded by the topic of Alcohol, what does the Bible say about it? Pastor Dave runs us through a few verses to show us what it says.  Enjoy this weeks episode and don't miss a moment!

Pro-Life Persecution with Aimee Huber | The Underground Sessions Podcast
https://youtu.be/TyoeoR0GlIo?si=rAM7SytTxh3vVQNw
The Fight for...