The Postscript is a podcast and YouTube series that invites listeners into in-depth theological and ministry conversations with pastors, Bible scholars, missionaries, and professors.
Host of the Postscript is Brandon Briscoe, provost of the Living Faith Bible Institute and associate pastor at Midtown Baptist Temple
New episodes of the Postscript release weekly
Episode Finder:
Episode 250: Church Planting in Toronto & Trusting God with Each Step
As a Fellowship, Living Faith has always believed that healthy churches reproduce and that the great commission demands far more than maintaining what already exists. It calls us to send laborers into the harvest to plant vibrant, disciple making churches in places where gospel centered, Bible believing communities are desperately needed.
Toronto offers exactly that kind of opportunity. A global crossroads where the nations converge. Toronto is one of the most diverse, dynamic, and densely populated cities in North America. A true epicenter of business, education, technology and culture. Today, on the postscript, we're joined by Josh O'Hora, professional counselor with Sound Mind, and a church planter preparing to launch a new work in Toronto.
Josh and his family are currently on deputation, partnering with churches to build the support system needed to establish that gospel centered disciple making church that we were describing in one of the most influential and multicultural cities in the world.
Visit https://www.lftoronto.com/
Visit https://www.lffellowship.com/
Visit https://www.lfbi.org/learnmore
Episode 249: The Seven “I AM” Statements of The Gospel of John w/ Dr. Chris Best, Missions Instructor
In John’s Gospel, Jesus makes seven powerful declarations that begin with the simple but divine phrase, “I Am.” Each statement, whether He calls Himself the Bread of Life, the Light of the World, or the Good Shepherd, reveals something profound about His nature and His relationship with us.
On today’s episode, we’re joined by Chris Best, Missions Pastor at Midtown Baptist Temple and instructor at the Living Faith Bible Institute, to explore these seven “I Am” statements and what they tell us about the character and mission of Christ. Together, we’ll discuss how each statement unveils a different facet of His deity, how they connect to Old Testament imagery, and why understanding who Jesus is changes the way we live and serve Him today.
Visit https://www.lfbi.org/learnmore
Episode 248: Gen Z's Hunger for Genuine Faith & Inspiring Boldness in Young Christians
Reaching the next generation is something that we talk about a lot on the shows. How do we get the young people in our churches to continue to follow Christ with everything that they have? To live for Christ has been a challenge for every church age and for every generation, but Gen Z is uniquely complicated. They live in a world that prizes self-expression that discourages conviction. They celebrate spirituality but they reject absolute truth because that's just the world in which they live in. They can't even trust their own eyes many times.
As pastors, parents, and mentors, how do we not only help young believers to take their faith seriously, but also inspire them to be bold, evangelical, unashamed and mission minded?
In a culture that often labels faith in Christianity as intolerant. These are things that our kids face. Now, on today's show, we are talking with Austin Dutton, pastor at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Moulton, Alabama. He makes an investment in the youth there. Young adults and student ministry alike. And we're going to talk with him about what it looks like for parents, churches and youth pastors to encourage our youth to move from silent belief to outspoken faith.
Visit https://www.lfbi.org/learnmore
Episode 246: Lion of War & Creativity in Ministry with Cliff Graham
For many Christians, it’s a lifelong struggle to understand where their creative gifts fit within the work of ministry. Whether through art, design, songwriting, photography, or storytelling, believers often wrestle with how to use these talents to glorify the Lord and edify His church. When God calls us to create, He isn’t asking us to impress the world or compete within its standards. He calls us to reflect His glory through the work of our hands. Few people embody that tension between creativity, realism, and redemption like author Cliff Graham — creator of the Lion of War series, a retelling of David’s mighty men that captures both the grit and the grace of biblical warfare. On today’s show, we’re honored to speak with Cliff Graham — biblical fiction author, veteran, and creative who has spent years exploring how art, masculinity, and faith can be used to honor Christ.
Visit https://www.lfbi.org/learnmore
Episode 245: Lessons from Baptist History in the South
In today's episode, we're taking another look at the story of the Baptists in America, particularly in regard to the growth and expansion of Baptist influence across the southeast corridor of the United States.
In what ways did Baptists in places like Virginia, Georgia, the Carolinas, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, etc. help shape the character and philosophy of ministry in the earliest years after the American Revolution up until this very day?
To help us unpack this history, I'm joined by Dr. Alan Shelby, Dean of the Living Faith Bible Institute and Faculty Professor of theology, philosophy and history at LFBI. Pastor Shelby just finished up a series of lectures about Baptist history at Callie Harbin Baptist Church in Villa Rica, Georgia, where he addressed this very subject on Baptist history, particularly in the Southeast.
Episode 243: Unknown Missionaries Aba I, Timothy of Baghdad & the Ancient Church of the East
Today on the show, we are going to step back into the early centuries of the church to explore the lives of two extraordinary men: a man named Aba I, and another man named Timothy of Baghdad. Aba took a bold stand against false teachings, enduring imprisonment and assassination attempts. His conviction could not be broken.
A century later Timothy of Baghdad emerged as a brilliant theologian and philosopher. Timothy carried the gospel to some of the most challenging places in the world. Their stories remind us how God has advanced his church through unlikely people in difficult times and difficult circumstances, leaving a legacy that still shapes our faith today. To tell the story of these unknown missionaries, we're joined by Pastor and missiology professor James Fyffe.
Episode 242: A Christian Response to the Murder of Charlie Kirk
As a fifth grader, Charlie Kirk surrendered his life to Jesus, confessing his sin and acknowledging his need for a Savior. That decision set him on a path of growth, conviction, and public witness that deeply impacted the youth of our country. His open discourse on campuses and his public presence gave him a platform for the gospel and introduced an entire generation to the name of Jesus Christ. He believed his mission was to confront the sin in our culture and boldly proclaim truth, defend the faith, and call believers to live unashamedly in the world.
Charlie’s ministry and activism were marked by a radical belief that Scripture is not only true but also sufficient to guide every area of life—personal, cultural, and political. He called Christians to stand firm in their identity, resist compromise, and let the Word of God shape their actions. His life, though cut short, serves as a living example of what it means to take Jesus at His word and to spend every ounce of energy for the sake of the gospel and the advancement of God’s kingdom.
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA and outspoken apologist, was assassinated this week. Over the last few days, we have watched as the nation has divided further along ideological lines. Why did this happen? What does it mean for our country? And what does this situation mean for Christians?
Today on the show, we have invited Brian Hedges, pastor of Heartland Bible Fellowship in Harrisonville, MO, to chat with us about the impact of Kirk’s death and how Christians should respond to this tragedy.
Episode 240: The Foundation of Augustinian-Calvinism with Dr. Ken Wilson
Whether you're familiar with Augustine or not, chances are you've encountered Calvinism and its core doctrines—especially the idea of unconditional election. Perhaps you have Reformed friends who hold to the belief that God has sovereignly chosen some individuals for salvation and others for damnation, entirely apart from their will. This deterministic view of salvation has become deeply embedded in much of Western Christianity. But what if we could trace this theological development to a specific moment in church history? What if we could say, with confidence, when and how this view was introduced—and argue that it was not part of the original Christian faith?
On today’s show, we take a critical look at one of the most influential figures in Christian history: Augustine of Hippo. We’re joined by Dr. Ken Wilson, Oxford-trained scholar and author of The Foundations of Augustinian Calvinism. In his historical research, Dr. Wilson demonstrates how Augustine’s later theology— particularly his embrace of determinism and unilateral grace — marked a significant departure from the teachings of earlier Church Fathers and laid the foundation for what would become Calvinistic theology.
To learn more on the topic, please read the notes included for this week’s episode.
Episode 237: Recovering the Role of the Deacon
On today’s show, we’re looking at one of the most common and yet misunderstood roles in the local church: the office of the deacon. While some see it as a stepping stone to greater leadership, others have turned it into a position of power. But when we return to the early church in Acts 6, what we find is a calling rooted in servanthood, urgency, and need. The Bible paints a clear and compelling picture: deacons were appointed to serve—literally to wait tables—not to lead spiritual governance, but to protect it. Their ministry enabled pastors and elders to focus on prayer and the Word by meeting practical, often overlooked needs in the body. To help us unpack this biblical office and its implications for the church today, we’re joined by Pastor Mitch Dobson, Biblical Studies instructor at LFBI welcome to the Postscript.
Visit https://www.lfbi.org/learnmore
Episode 234: Leadership Lessons from Titus
On today's show, we are taking a close look at the life and leadership of one of the Apostle Paul's most trusted co-laborers, Titus. Often overshadowed by names like Timothy or Barnabas, Titus played a critical role in some of the most difficult and delicate ministry assignments in the early church. He is kind of “the fixer”. Known for helping troubled congregations get stable and begin implementing discipleship.
Titus was a man trusted to bring order, integrity and clarity to the local church. So today we're going to ask, what can be learned from his testimony? How does Titus’s example of leadership and oversight provide us with principles for how we should lead in our churches and in our homes?
Whether you're leading in a troubled church, a church plant, a Bible study, or simply trying to be a faithful steward in your home, join us today as we examine the book that bears Titus’s name. Our guest on today's show is pastor Lee Ridings of Greater Hope Baptist Church in Dallas, Georgia.
Episode 233: The Lord’s Supper & the Catholic Eucharist with Jim Alter
The Lord’s Supper or Communion has been one of the most historically debated practices in all of Christianity. For Baptists, this ordinance is a solemn, symbolic remembrance of Christ’s death and a testimony of His promised return. But in contrast, the Roman Catholic Church teaches that the Eucharist is not merely symbolic—it is the literal body and blood of Christ through the miracle of transubstantiation. These two views are not simply liturgical preferences; they reflect deep theological convictions about grace, salvation, the nature of the Church, and the role of religious ritual.
In this episode, we’ll explore why traditional Baptists reject the Catholic doctrine of the Eucharist. Whether you’re a student of theology or just curious about the differences between Baptists and Catholic views, today’s discussion will help clarify what’s at stake in how the Church remembers the cross.
For this conversation we have invited Jim Alter, pastor of Grace Baptist Church of Sidney, Ohio. Jim is co-founder and editor of the Ancient Baptist Press. Jim is also the founder, curator and lecturer for a traveling exhibition called “Purified Seven Times” which is devoted to educating people about the history of the English Bible. Jim is also co-author of the book “Why Baptist? The Significance of Baptist Principles in an Ecumenical Age.”
Episode 232: A Biblical Perspective on Immigration & Borders
Today’s episode looks at the biblical perspective and Christian responsibility toward immigrants.
While immigration is often framed politically, for many believers it’s also deeply personal—shaping families, churches, and the communities we serve.
In this conversation we ask the following questions: What does Scripture teach us about migration, national identity, and the believer’s role in a world of shifting borders and political tension? What does it mean to be faithful, compassionate, and mission-minded in a society divided over immigration? How can the church avoid losing its voice by becoming entangled in worldly narratives?
For this conversation we have invited Pastor Mike Reneau of Living Faith Boston. Mike pastors a church congregation made up of many immigrants and has walked closely with those impacted by immigration laws.
Notes to reference for this episode
Episode 230: Dealing with Sexual Sin in the Church & the Road to Recovery
A crucial and often uncomfortable topic that touches the heart of many individuals and churches alike is that of sexual sin and its impact on the Body of Christ. There is no doubt that there is something particularly devastating when one hears that a church friend, a confidante, or leader in the church has committed sexual sin. It is an offense to Christ and a violation of trust. For the church, it feels like the ultimate act of hypocrisy.
How does a person recover from this kind of sin? Is it possible to find victory again? How should the church respond to recover those people who have fallen in this way? How do we promote faith within the church family despite the feelings of betrayal that they have?
In today's episode, we will explore the biblical subject of sexual sin, fornication, and its ramifications on the church. We will also discuss what it looks like to break free from sexual sin and find the road to recovery. To have this conversation, we have invited Dan Reneau, Pastor of Living Faith Lee’s Summit and a professor of Biblical Studies at Living Faith Bible Institute.
Episode 227: What Does the Bible Say About Polygamy?
In today’s episode, we’re tackling a topic that challenges cultural norms and theological assumptions: polygamy. What was once considered a fringe practice in the U.S. is now gaining more visibility, prompting questions about marriage, ethics, and faith.
What does the Bible say and how should Christians understand this subject? In the Old Testament we see polygamy in practice among patriarchs and kings who had multiple wives –but how did God perceive that? Are there instances in which God condones the practice?
To help us navigate this topic, we’re joined by missiology professor James Fyffe, a missionary himself, who spent time ministering in cultures where polygamy is a longstanding tradition. Today we will look to God’s word to find out not only what the Bible says about polygamy, but how this question may impact people in ministry and on the mission field. James, welcome to the show.
For more information on the subject, please read the Notes for Episodes 227.
Episode 226: The Altar of Incense & the New Testament Believer
The Old Testament tabernacle was meticulously crafted according to divine instruction and served as the central place of worship and communion between God and His people during Israel’s wilderness journey. Far more than a portable sanctuary, the tabernacle was the tangible manifestation of God’s presence dwelling among His covenant people. Its detailed construction, from the outer court to the Most Holy Place, was imbued with theological significance, providing the nation of Israel with rich symbolism in their worship.
The alter of incense was a sacred piece of furniture in the tabernacle used for burning incense as a daily offering to the Lord. It was located just outside the Holy of Holies. For the New Testament believer, the altar of incense has tons of typological significance, with layers of prophetic meaning, holding truths that find their fullest expression in Christ.
The tabernacle wasn’t just for Israel but it testifies to the divine design that culminates in Christ’s redemptive mission and relationship with mankind. To discuss the typology behind the altar of incense specifically, we have invited Brian Hedges, pastor at Heartland Baptist Fellowship in Harrisonville, MO and president of Word First Publishing.
Episode 225: What Do We Do with “Church Hurt”?
For many, church is a sanctuary, a place of healing, guidance, and community. But for others, church can represent pain, betrayal, and confusion. Whether it’s due to witnessing a leadership failure, experiencing cultures of legalism, exclusion, or spiritual abuse - church hurt can leave lasting scars that challenge not only a person's trust in others, but also their relationship with God.
How do people who have experienced these things overcome their feelings? How do we grieve the failures of people we respected and loved? How do we confront bitterness and what in some cases may be justification for personal
sin? How do we find the strength to forgive and move on in our pursuit of Christ?
In this episode, we're joined by Jonathan Kindler, professor of Biblical Counseling at the Living Faith Bible Institute, who has both experienced “church hurt” firsthand and dedicated much of his work to helping others navigate it. Together, we explore why these painful experiences happen in places meant for love and acceptance, and what people can do to overcome them. We also look at how leaders should respond when people in our congregations have experienced a trial or hardship within the church setting.
Episode 223: How to Deal with Failure in Ministry
Ministry is often portrayed as a calling, as it should be filled with purpose, impact, and divine fulfillment. Yet the reality for many pastors, missionaries, and church leaders is that gospel ministry comes with seasons of deep discouragement and often failure. Learning to recover from errors in judgment and feelings of failure and fruitlessness is absolutely crucial for someone's leadership, not just for our own personal well-being, but also for sustaining long term faithfulness in the work of the ministry.
Too often, leaders internalize their setbacks as a sign that God has rejected them, but failure does not mean the end of ministry. Failure can be the very place where growth and deeper faith in Christ begins. In today's episode, we talk with Pastor Mitch Dobson, Biblical Studies Instructor of the Living Faith Institute, to explore these difficult yet transformative moments, turning to the Scriptures to remind us of God’s promises during these critical times in life and ministry.

