Introduction

Hosts Carlos Erazo, Pastor Josh Howerton, and Pastor Paul Cunningham review Carlos’s sermon on Acts 22, explore current cultural pressures (Netflix’s transgender content, historic LGBT strategy), and offer counsel on parenting, testimony-sharing, and discipleship.

Scripture Reference(s)

  • Acts 21
  • Acts 22
  • Acts 7
  • Matthew 18:6
  • Matthew 19:14
  • Matthew 28:19–20
  • Matthew 5:20
  • Luke 15:11–32
  • John 8:32
  • Ephesians 2:1–10
  • Romans 8:29
  • 1 Corinthians 16:13–14
  • 2 Corinthians 4:4
  • 2 Corinthians 10:5
  • Genesis 12:2–3

Key Points

  • Jesus reshaped history: attitudes toward children, women, education, science, medicine, and social ethics.
  • Acts 22: Paul’s defense in Aramaic; background under Gamaliel shows Jesus rescues rebels and the religious.
  • Parallel language links Paul’s speech (“Brothers and fathers…”) with Stephen’s in Acts 7, underscoring Paul’s change.
  • Christianity birthed hospitals, schools, literacy movements, and many Ivy-League universities.
  • Netflix embeds transgender ideology in children’s shows (Cocomelon, Transformers, Monster High); such episodes function as sermons that catechise children.
  • “After the Ball” (1987) detailed a media strategy—victim narrative, desensitization, vilifying churches—to normalize LGBT doctrine; present culture reflects its success.
  • Testimony ≠ biography; every believer’s story is a resurrection story (Eph 2).
  • Evangelism tool * BLESS: Begin with prayer, Listen, Eat, Serve, Share.
  • Parenting: calibrate consciences, classify media as road/trail/minefield, sustain parent-over-peer bonding; fathers called to be watchful (1 Cor 16:13–14).
  • Love people while destroying deceptive arguments (2 Cor 10:5); consider economic stewardship (canceling harmful platforms).

Theological / Exegetical Points

  • NT written in Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic—Acts 22 records Paul in Aramaic.
  • Gamaliel’s stature (Mishna) highlights Paul’s elite training.
  • Soreg inscription explains riot over Paul’s alleged Gentile companion (Acts 21).
  • “Kick against the goads” likely references Paul’s guilt over Stephen’s death.
  • Jesus’ warnings/protection of children (Matt 18:6; 19:14) shape Christian ethics.
  • Two ways to miss the Father—rebellion and religion (Luke 15; Matt 5:20).

Interaction & Group Responses

  • Light banter: date nights, hunting, nickname contest, hat giveaway.
  • Celebration of Carlos’s sermon; applause for “ordinary” testimonies.
  • Collective alarm at Netflix clips; resolve to protect children.

Practical Applications

  • Treat all media as discipleship; run “lie-detectors” after viewing.
  • Share Christ-centered stories using BLESS.
  • Parenting stages: cop (0–10), coach (11–18), consultant (adult).
  • Guard young children from “minefield” content; cultivate a biblically faithful, heteronormative home.
  • Spend money as a vote for the world you want; evaluate subscriptions.

Prayer / Intercession Items

  • Salvation for those captive to deceptive ideologies.
  • Spirit-empowered wisdom for parents; truth and love to fill children.
  • Strength for the church to stand firm, act in love, and protect the vulnerable.

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