Southern Evangelical Seminary
The recent discourse between Liz Franzel and Judge Phil Ginn on our sister station, KLTT 670AM, centers on the increasingly contentious issue of religious freedom in the United States and its intrinsic connection to the health of democracy. As the president of the Southern Evangelical Seminary, Judge Ginn emphasizes the foundational role that religious morality plays in upholding democratic values and responsible citizenship.
The conversation takes us back to the Bill of Rights, highlighting the prioritization of freedom of religion as the first fundamental right. Judge Ginn underscores that this liberty is essential not only within the confines of a church but also in public spaces, advocating for the integration of personal faith into everyday life. Despite this vision, many churches face opposition when attempting to bridge the gap between their beliefs and their social engagement, leading to debates about the separation of church and state.
During their discussion, Liz and Judge Ginn address the notion that churches today often retreat from addressing cultural and political issues. This avoidance stems from a desire not to alienate their congregants, but as the Judge points out, it risks diluting the faith. This defensive stance is exemplified in situations where churches shy away from displaying symbols like the cross for fear of offending others, thereby obscuring their religious identity and mission.
Explorations of legislative actions such as Colorado’s House Bill 1312 reveal the tangible consequences of constraint on religious expression. Such policies present a stark opposition to biblical principles, especially in domestic contexts where parents could face severe repercussions for maintaining their religious teachings. This governmental overreach into matters of family and faith is a pivotal concern for religious communities seeking to preserve their faith traditions.
The conversation takes a turn towards current events, discussing the role of political leaders like Donald Trump in combating religious persecution, specifically regarding anti-Semitic sentiments on campuses across the nation. Judge Ginn articulates that religious freedom should be a universal concern, urging Christians to ally with different faith communities in advocating for their rights, while delineating a clear boundary against non-religious ideologies like atheism or satanism.
Moreover, the podcast touches upon the broader social issues linked to identity and morality. Judge Ginn argues that movements that promote sexual deviance and challenge traditional family structures pose significant threats to vital societal institutions like the family and the church, which have historically anchored the American way of life.
In conclusion, Judge Ginn invites listeners to engage deeper with these pressing issues and to explore the resources offered by the Southern Evangelical Seminary at ses.edu. Through initiatives like the faith-based virtual training program, SES aims to cultivate leaders capable of reinvigorating the church’s role in American society, effectively equipping them to meet cultural challenges with a principled, informed approach.
If you appreciate the Christian roots of America, head over to KLTT to listen to the whole interview. Judge Ginn is a joy to listen to and solid as a rock in his faith, and you won’t be disappointed.
