In this episode of Unfiltered Crossroads, we tackle two powerful topics that challenge how we think about faith, power, and influence.First, we take a hard look at the intoxicating nature of power—especially in the political sphere. We’re watching leaders who once spoke out against Donald Trump suddenly fall in line to secure their own positions. Why are so many people willing to compromise their morals just to stay close to power? From JD Vance to Marco Rubio, we examine how quickly people switch sides when it benefits them. As Christians, should we be concerned when leaders prioritize power over principle? And what does Jesus teach us about true leadership and authority?Then, we shift gears and ask a different question: Does God care about sports? Some say God has bigger things to worry about, but if He knows the number of hairs on our heads, why wouldn’t He care about something that impacts millions? Athletes pray for victory just like people pray for promotions, protection, and success in their careers. So why do some dismiss the idea that God could have a role in a game? We also break down the deeper issue of competing prayers—when both teams pray for a win or when soldiers on opposite sides of a war both ask for God's protection. How do we understand God’s role in situations where there are clear winners and losers?These discussions will make you think, challenge assumptions and hopefully spark some real conversation.Drop your thoughts in the comments! Are political leaders compromising for power? Do you think God is involved in sports and other competitions? Let’s talk about it.Shout Hallelujah by Randy Gill, Copyright 2003. Used by permission.#barronjones #podcast #UnfilteredCrossroads #politics #FaithAndSports #politicalpower

In this episode, we begin with a sobering discussion on genocide, inspired by the account in Luke 9 where Jesus rebukes his disciples for suggesting the destruction of a Samaritan village. Against the backdrop of modern conflicts and the rise in genocide rhetoric, we examine the historical and cultural context of this passage and draw lessons on restraint, compassion, and rejecting impulsive, destructive solutions to conflict.Next, we dive into the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats program, which allows players to spotlight causes they care about. One player’s choice to support the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) sparked controversy due to the organization’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues. We explore the complexities of freedom of expression, whether athletes should be tied to every aspect of the organizations they support, and the growing tension between personal values and societal expectations.We close with our Fan Mail segment, revisiting listener comments from last week’s fiery discussion on reparations. While the focus was on Donald Trump’s proposal for reparations to white people, many listeners pivoted to debate reparations for Black Americans. We tackle the myths, misconceptions, and outright contradictions in these arguments, highlighting the deep-seated resistance to addressing historical injustices while exposing the double standards often applied to these conversations.Join us for an episode that delves into some of the most contentious topics of our time, unpacking race, religion, politics, and culture with an unfiltered lens designed to challenge and inspire.Shout Hallelujah by Randy Gill, Copyright 2003. Used by permission.#barronjones #podcast #unfilteredcrossroads #genocide #nfl #mycleatsmycause #reparations

In this episode, we dive into some tough but important conversations about race, faith, and politics.Segment 1: Let’s talk about the tricky spot Black Christians often find themselves in. On one side, there’s the pro-Black movement that sometimes expects faith to take a backseat. On the other, predominantly white Christian spaces that often ignore the realities of being Black in America. How do you stay true to both your faith and your identity when neither side fully embraces you?Segment 2: So, Donald Trump is talking about “reparations for white people.” Yep, you heard that right. We break down what he means by this, how it ties to his fight against DEI programs, and why it’s not as surprising as it might seem. Plus, a little history lesson on how reparations have worked in America—and spoiler, it’s not in favor of Black Americans.Fan Mail: We’re responding to some comments, like the classic “racism was pretty much gone in the ‘90s” and “the best way to end racism is to stop talking about it.” Really? Let’s unpack why these arguments just don’t hold up and why the conversation around racism is far from over.This episode is raw, real and unapologetic. Let’s get into it!Shout Hallelujah by Randy Gill, Copyright 2003. Used by permission.#Race #Faith #Politics #DEI #Reparations #BlackChristians #unfilteredcrossroads #barronjones