Gentle Hearts, Bold Words

Is free speech a God-given right or simply a civil one? In this episode, Pastor Mark and Justin explain the intersections of the First Amendment and biblical truths. While American law defends our freedom to speak—sometimes controversially—Scripture can contradict the First Amendment which is often a surprise to many Christians.

From Genesis to Acts, they investigate how being made in God's image includes the gift of reason and the ability to communicate. They examine powerful moments in the book of Acts where the apostles boldly proclaim truth in defiance of religious authorities, modeling what it means to obey God rather than men. They also look at the Bible’s moral framework for how we use our words—whether in truth-telling, honoring leaders, speaking up for the oppressed, or avoiding slander and destructive speech. God grants us the ability to speak but that gift is not left without responsibility. Join them as they ask tough questions, wrestle with Scripture, and consider how believers today can engage in bold, truthful, and loving speech.