Firebrand Podcast artwork

Firebrand Podcast

192 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago - ★★★★★ - 122 ratings

The Firebrand Podcast (formerly Plain Truth: A Holy Spirited Podcast) is the official podcast of Firebrand Magazine and features Maggie Ulmer, Scott Kisker, and David F. Watson. In addition to providing interviews and recordings of featured articles, Maggie, Scott and David discuss culture, theology, Bible, and the work of the Holy Spirit, through the lens of the historic faith. You can expect the same humor and lively conversation as the Firebrand Podcast crew remains dedicated to resourcing listeners with Spirit-filled, theologically grounded, (somewhat) sanctified, Wesleyan content to help them “think Christianly” in today’s swiftly changing landscape.

Christianity Religion & Spirituality Society & Culture church evangelical evangelicalism history jesus methodism revival theology wesleyan charleswesley
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Episodes

FIREBRAND VOICES: Resurrecting Wesleyan Evangelism: The Necessity of Field Preaching Today by Matt Reynolds

March 18, 2024 19:03 - 13 minutes - 15.8 MB

In today's episode Matt Reynolds reads his recent Fireband article:  "Resurrecting Wesleyan Evangelism: The Necessity of Field Preaching Today" Read the original article here: https://firebrandmag.com/articles/resurrecting-wesleyan-evangelism-the-necessity-of-field-preaching-today

He Gets Us: Jesus at "The Big Game!"

February 22, 2024 17:29 - 1 hour - 88.3 MB

In today's episode the Firebrand team discusses the newest ad from the "He Gets Us" ad campaign: Jesus didn't teach hate. He washed feet. Stick around to the end of the podcast for a new Firebrand Podcast segment called Firebrand recommends! In today's episode: David Watson Scott Kisker Maggie Ulmer

How to set up a deliverance ministry in your church!

January 22, 2024 23:23 - 38 minutes - 32.9 MB

In today's episode David, Scott and Maggie discuss the benefits, and how-tos of setting up a deliverance ministry in your local church. Books mentioned in the podcast: The X-Manual Unleashed by Peter J. Bellini Deliverance and Inner Healing by John Loren Sandford and Mark Sandford Deliverance from Evil Spirits by Francis Macnutt

Christmas-tastic 2023

January 01, 2024 21:25 - 52 minutes - 72.2 MB

Okay... yes, it seems late, but it's still Christmas until Epiphany. Plus, you don't want to miss the rivieting discussion of Krampus in this one. 

Firebrand Voices: Doctrine, Spirit, and Discipline: A Holistic Vision for Church Renewal by Matt Reynolds

December 25, 2023 21:57 - 15 minutes - 14.3 MB

Listen to Matt Reynolds read his article: "Doctrine, Spirit, and Discipline: A Holistic Vision for Church Renewal" Read the original article here: https://firebrandmag.com/articles/doctrine-spirit-and-discipline-a-holistic-vision-for-church-renewal  Donate to Firebrand here: https://firebrandmag.com/match

Firebrand Panel: Artificial Intelligence and It’s Implications for the Christian Life

December 11, 2023 20:12 - 1 hour - 86.1 MB

Today's episode of the Firebrand Podcast is a live panel discussion recorded earlier this past year. The discussion was about AI and it's impact on the Christian life. Panelists include: Dr. Pete Bellini, Dr. David Watson, Mr. Todd Jenkins, and President of Spirit & Truth Matt Reynolds. The conversation was moderated by Maggie Ulmer.  Thanks to a generous donor, every dollar donated to Firebrand between now and the end of January will be matched up to 12,000.00 dollars. To help us reach ou...

The Rise of Antisemitism in the United States

November 28, 2023 22:08 - 33 minutes - 29.4 MB

In this episode David, Scott, and Maggie wade through the topic of the current troubling rise of antisemitic sentiment in the United States. In this episode: David Watson Scott Kisker Maggie Ulmer

Christianity vs Deism

November 21, 2023 03:29 - 43 minutes - 39.3 MB

In this episode the Firebrand podcast crew tackle the question: Why should someone be a Christian rathern than merely Deist? The Firebrand Podcast is the official podcast of Firebrand Magazine: https://firebrandmag.com/ In this episode: David Watson Scott Kisker Maggie Ulmer

Firebrand Panel: Why the Future of Methodism Needs to Be Spirit-Filled

November 06, 2023 16:26 - 1 hour - 46.2 MB

Today's episode of the Firebrand Podcast features a panel of speakers discussing why the future of Methodism must reclaim it's Spirit-filled roots to thrive. Hosted by: Matt Reynolds Maggie Ulmer Panelists include: Dr. David Watson (Academic Dean at United Theological Seminary) Rev. Dr. Carolyn Moore (Founding Pastor of Mosaic Church in Evans, Georgia) Dr. Steve Seamands (Retired professor of Christian Doctrine at Asbury Theological Seminary) Dr. Pete Bellini (Professor of Church R...

"Is this Armageddon???" The crew discusses the ongoing conflict in Israel.

October 31, 2023 21:06 - 38 minutes - 36.4 MB

David, Scott and Maggie answer the question: Is this Armegeddon? The crew discusses the ongoing conflict in Israel. (Also check out our new opening music.) In this episode: Scott Kisker David Watson Maggie Ulmer

Firebrand Voices: Recovering Logic: Reflections on Critical Thinking Skills in Ministerial Training by Kenny Johnston

October 24, 2023 03:19 - 15 minutes - 25.8 MB

Kenny Johnston reads his recent Firebrand article: Recovering Logic: Reflections on Critical Thinking Skills in Ministerial Training. Read the Firebrand article here: https://firebrandmag.com/articles/recovering-logic-reflections-on-critical-thinking-skills-in-ministerial-training Thank you to this episode's sponsor: United Theological Seminary https://united.edu/

Firebrand Voices: Thoughts Upon Christian Orthodoxy (Or, Epistemology Can’t Save You) by David F. Watson

October 02, 2023 23:01 - 17 minutes - 25.7 MB

In todays' episode of Firebrand Voices David F. Watson readis his article "Thoughts Upon Christian Orthodoxy (Or, Epistemology Can’t Save You)"  Read the print article here: https://firebrandmag.com/articles/thoughts-upon-christian-orthodoxy-or-epistemology-cant-save-you

David, Scott & Maggie talk about the great De-Churching

September 22, 2023 00:48 - 51 minutes - 46.9 MB

In this episode the crew discusses the challenges facing the church and talk a bit about  The Great Dechurching by Jim Davis, Michael Graham and Ryan Burge. In this episode: David F. Watons Scott Kisker Maggie Ulmer

Jerome Van Kuiken talks about his new book: The Judas We Never Knew!

September 07, 2023 22:36 - 43 minutes - 30.2 MB

On today's episode Scott, David and Maggie interview Jerome Van Kuiken about his new book The Judas We Never Knew, published through Seedbed. Link below! https://my.seedbed.com/product/the-judas-we-never-knew/  

Biblical theology (and so much more) w/ Dr. Pauline Buisch!

August 17, 2023 20:51 - 1 hour - 53.2 MB

This is a long one, but a good one! The Firebrand crew talks with Pauline Buisch about the patterns and themes throughout scripture. Maggie asks some rambling questions. Scott realizes that the Bible is profound, and David thinks the Book of Ezekiel is just too darn long.  Don't forget to subscribe! https://firebrandmag.com/

Dr. Cinda Swan Part 2: All about prayer!

August 08, 2023 01:41 - 57 minutes - 37.1 MB

Cinda returns to the podcast to disscuss intercession and all things prayer with Maggie!

Special Episode w/ Justus Hunter: Why theology matters!

August 03, 2023 20:28 - 51 minutes - 47.2 MB

This is a special drop-in episode from the Spirit & Truth  podcast with Dr. Justus Hunter. We talk about the Firebrand Theology Seminar and why theology matters!

Dr. Reggie Abraham talks w/ the team about Christian persecution in India, pastoral care, and more...

July 27, 2023 03:55 - 51 minutes - 44.8 MB

David, Scott and Maggie talk w/ Dr. Reggie Abraham about his life as the child in India, the persecution of Christians in India, God's calling on him and his family, and his work in pastoral care. Many thanks to Reggie for this fascinating and wide ranging conversation!

Firebrand Voices: “That Liturgical Stuff”: How Worship Shapes Orthodoxy by Tesia Mallory

July 02, 2023 00:17 - 12 minutes - 11.5 MB

Dean of Chapel at United Theological Seminary, Dr. Tesia Mallory reads her recent Firebrand article: "That Liturgical Stuff": How Worship Shapes Orthodoxy.

Firebrand Voices: On Form and Content: Ecclesiology and The Writers' Strike by Drew McIntyre

June 30, 2023 01:43 - 14 minutes - 12.4 MB

On today's episode of the Firebrand podcast Drew McIntyre reads his recent article: "On Form and Content: Ecclesiology and The Writers' Strike" Read the original article here: https://firebrandmag.com/articles/on-form-and-content-ecclesiology-and-the-writers-strike

Listener Questions: Part 2!

June 23, 2023 03:43 - 59 minutes - 56.7 MB

In today's episode of the Firebrand podcast the crew dives into more listener questions!  

Firebrand Voices: The Serpent in the Techno-Garden: Resisting the Temptation to Use AI for Ministry by Suzanne Nicholson

June 17, 2023 02:38 - 17 minutes - 12.5 MB

Dr. Suzanne Nicholson reads her Firebrand article: The Serpent in the Techno-Garden: Resisting the Temptation to Use AI for Ministry orginally published May 23, 2023. https://firebrandmag.com/articles/the-serpent-in-the-techno-garden-resisting-the-temptation-to-use-ai-for-ministry To support Firebrand go to:  https://www.spiritandtruth.life/give

Firebrand Voices: Firebrand at Three: The Cultivation of the Christian Mind by David F. Watson

June 09, 2023 03:38 - 12 minutes - 12.9 MB

Firebrand Voices: Firebrand at Three: The Cultivation of the Christian Mind by David F. Watson Read the original article: https://firebrandmag.com/articles/firebrand-at-three-the-cultivation-of-the-christian-mind

Firebrand Voices: The Ancient Faith I Never Knew: Discovering the Protestant Heritage by Stephen Fitch

May 31, 2023 22:21 - 14 minutes - 13.7 MB

Today's episode of Firebrand Voices features Stephen Fitch reading his article "The Ancient Faith I Never Knew: Discovering the Protestant Heritage" Read the original here: https://firebrandmag.com/articles/the-ancient-faith-i-never-knew-discovering-the-protestant-heritage To support Firebrand Magazine go to: https://firebrandmag.com/donate

The importance of spiritual warfare and intercession w/ Dr. Cinda Swan

May 25, 2023 02:39 - 1 hour - 55.2 MB

In this episode David, Scott and Maggie talk with Cinda Swan about the importance os spiritual warfare and intercession.  DOWNLOAD NEW EPISODES EVERY THURSDAY! In this episode: David Watson Scott Kisker Maggie Ulmer Cinda Swan

Firebrand Voices: Wesley's Four Spiritual Laws by Bob Kaylor

May 08, 2023 18:04 - 13 minutes - 15.5 MB

Bob Kaylor reads his recent Firebrand article: Wesley's Four Spiritual Laws Read the original article here: https://firebrandmag.com/articles/wesleys-four-spiritual-laws

Firebrand Voices: "Methodists Need a Charismatic Upgrade!" by Peter J. Bellini

May 01, 2023 23:33 - 18 minutes - 13.4 MB

Peter J. Bellini reads his recent article: "Methodists Need a Chrismatic Upgrade!" https://firebrandmag.com/articles/methodists-need-a-charismatic-upgrade

Firebrand Voices: "Choose Kingdom Life!" by Rachel Coleman

April 23, 2023 22:59 - 22 minutes - 19.5 MB

Today's episode of Firebrand Voices features Rachel Coleman reading her article "Choose Kingdom Life!" from Firebrand magazine.  Read the print version here! Subscribe to Firebrand magazine!

Responding to Listener Questions, Part 1

April 17, 2023 09:00 - 1 hour - 93.9 MB

We cover a wide swath on this one, from biblical historiography to the gifts of the Holy Spirit to sweater vests to the particularity of religious traditions. Spoiler alert: we don't agree on everything. @maggieulmer @spirittruthlife @utsdoc 

Christ is Risen!

April 10, 2023 09:00 - 42 minutes - 58.8 MB

Dr. Tammie Grimm joins us to talk about the the resurrection of our Lord. Maggie had to sit this one out, so David takes the helm, and Scott somehow works the Germans into the conversation. 

David, Scott, & Maggie reflect on the cross in honor of Good Friday; & David relives his adolescence reminiscing about 80's rock music.

April 02, 2023 23:24 - 45 minutes - 43.3 MB

In today's episode of the Firebrand Podcast the crew discusses the atonement and the various theories that describe it. 

Firebrand Voices: David F. Watson reads his article: "Why Christians Must Reject Assisted Suicide"

March 27, 2023 18:15 - 14 minutes - 16.8 MB

Today's show is a Firebrand Voices episode. David F. Watson reads his article: "Why Christians Must Reject Assisted Suicide." The original print article can be read here!    

Audio of David delivering his talk at the recent Spirit & Truth conference: "Come and Die!"

March 19, 2023 21:33 - 40 minutes - 50.8 MB

Enjoy this recording of David speaking at the recent Spirit & Truth conference: In session 3 Dr. David Watson challenges us to come and die in Christ!  For information on how you can hear the other conference talks go to:  https://spiritandtruth.substack.com/

We talk about the craft of preaching w/ Dr. Joy Moore!

March 13, 2023 23:51 - 41 minutes - 27.8 MB

David, Scott and Maggie interview professor of Biblical Preaching, Dr. Joy Moore about what constitutes a great sermon! Twitter: @joyjmoore @MaggieUlmer @utsdoc @FirebrandTalk  

David, Scott, and Maggie talk about Lent!

March 06, 2023 01:04 - 40 minutes - 37.1 MB

Today's episode is a classic David, Scott and Maggie conversation all about the liturgical season of Lent. The crew discusses the necessary work of confession, the mortification of the flesh and in a surprising turn-- vampire shows??? This episode is full of surprises.  Follow us on twitter: @Firebrandtalk Check out Firebrand Magazine! @utsdoc @MaggieUlmer  

Bishop Emeritus Mike Lowry

February 27, 2023 11:37 - 53 minutes - 46.9 MB

Bishop Emeritus Mike Lowry joins us to talk about the Global Methodist Church and what it will take for any church to thrive in the days ahead. 

Firebrand Voices: 2 Articles on the Asbury Revival by Peter J. Bellini & Jason E. Vickers

February 20, 2023 03:47 - 15 minutes - 14.8 MB

Firebrand Voices features authors from Firebrand magazine reading their articles. This week Dr. Peter J. Bellini reads his most recent article called "Revival at Asbury University" and Dr. Jason E. Vickers reads his article, "The Asbury Revival: A First-Person Account." Be sure to share and subscribe to the Firebrand Podcast so you don't miss another episode.

The FIRST official episode of the Firebrand Podcast!

February 13, 2023 21:38 - 52 minutes - 54.2 MB

In this wide ranging conversation David, Maggie and Matt Reynolds (Spirit & Truth President and Founder) discuss the reason for launching the podcast, the relationship between the academy and the church, the Asbury revival and more. Resources named in the podcast: "Why Firebrand?" by David F. Watson A Secular Age by Charles Taylor How (Not) to Be Secular by James K.A. Smith The Christian Mind by Harry Blamires

Plain Truth...one more time!

January 30, 2023 03:29 - 56 minutes - 51 MB

On this episode Scott and David talk about their recent international travel experiences and the crew gets into a conversation about how we as Christians understand-- the self.

Plain Truth Podcast Update

January 26, 2023 17:51 - 5 minutes - 5.09 MB

In this short episode Maggie shares some exciting news about changes happening in the Plain Truth Podcast world.

Breakthrough Prayer, with Sue Nilson Kibbey

January 02, 2023 10:00 - 52 minutes - 72.4 MB

Rev. Sue Nilson Kibbey of the Bishop Bruce Ough Innovation Center at United Theological Seminary joins us to talk about the power of prayer to change lives and renew churches. 

Our 6th Annual CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA

December 24, 2022 10:00 - 51 minutes - 70.4 MB

We open up the Good Book and talk about Luke 1:68-79, or the "Benedictus," as it's traditionally called. Also, Maggie is super excited it's Christmas, Scott just wants world peace for in his stocking, and David makes fun of Scott. 

Reaching Younger Generations, with Todd von Helms

December 19, 2022 17:06 - 52 minutes - 72.4 MB

Dr. Todd von Helms is a Senior Fellow at The King’s College, the Presidential Scholar for Christianity and Culture at Dallas Baptist University, and a Senior Fellow for the Center for Faith and Culture at Southeastern Seminary. He speaks to youth and college students throughout the nation. We talk with him about the state of the church and reaching younger generations with the Gospel. You can learn more about Dr. von Helms here: https://www.toddvonhelms.com.  Check out his book, Before You L...

Western Secularism: How Should the Church Respond?

December 05, 2022 10:00 - 58 minutes - 81.5 MB

England is no longer a majority-Christian country. Many say the U.S. is on the same trajectory. What are the implications of these shifts, and what can we do about them? 

Who is Maggie Ulmer?

November 21, 2022 10:00 - 36 minutes - 51 MB

In this episode, David interviews Maggie about her faith development over the years from totally unchurched to mainline Protestant to Methocostal spiritual warrior. We also learn about her former life as an actor, and David learns that acting is an actual profession. Scott had to miss this one so it's a two person show this week. 

A Born Again Episode Straight from the Good Book

October 31, 2022 09:00 - 39 minutes - 54.1 MB

In this episode the crew talks about the New Birth--being a born-again Christian. 

Thinking Christianly: A Conversation on Theological Education

October 10, 2022 16:00 - 58 minutes - 81 MB

Maggie, Scott, and David talk about theological education. What is it? Why is it important? How can we improve it? And Scott reveals that he doesn't know what Instagram is. 

The Huruma Clean Water Project, with Dr. Jason Thorn

September 26, 2022 09:00 - 40 minutes - 55.6 MB

Huruma is a section of Mathare, the third-largest slum of Africa. One of their greatest needs in Huruma is clean water. Dr. Jason Thorn joins us to talk about the work of Spirit and Truth to provide for this need and his own experience of traveling to Huruma. We mention two videos in the podcast (here and here). Check 'em out! 

A Conversation with Dr. Cheryl Bridges Johns

September 12, 2022 09:00 - 46 minutes - 63.4 MB

Dr. Cheryl Bridges Johns, Visiting Professor of Pentecostal Studies at United Theological Seminary, joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about Scripture, seminary education, the Holy Spirit, Pentecostalism, and conflict within the church. Her new book is called Re-enchanting the Text: Discovering the Bible as Sacred, Dangerous, and Mysterious. 

Dr. Ryan Danker on The Faith Once Delivered, with Dr. Tesia Mallory

August 29, 2022 09:00 - 52 minutes - 72.4 MB

Tesia Mallory sits in for Maggie as we talk with Ryan Danker of the John Wesley Institute about the Next Methodism Summit and the document that came out of it, The Faith Once Delivered: A Wesleyan Witness. 

Guests

Matt Reynolds
3 Episodes
Randy Clark
2 Episodes

Twitter Mentions

@maggieulmer 2 Episodes
@firebrandtalk 2 Episodes
@utsdoc 2 Episodes
@joyjmoore 1 Episode