The Good Citizen Podcast

Joshua Hershberger: Attorney | Minister | Speaker
  • 4.9 (34)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Biweekly

Equipping Christians to confidently and effectively engage in public life. Hosted by attorney, minister, and speaker Josh Hershberger, the Good Citizen Podcast focuses on the ideas, encouragement, and practical examples you need to impact and even transform your zip code, state, and nation.

  1. 1d ago

    #437 Esther 6

    Esther is a remarkable story because it turns on, of all things, a case of royal insomnia. In Esther 6, the same divine hand that guided David’s sling guides the hand of a Persian servant to select a record of Mordecai’s forgotten service to the king, Haman faces humiliation and a forecast of the consequences of fighting against God, and a great and just reversal is set in motion. In this sermon, I explore these themes and the comforting thought that God never sleeps so we can. Outline: Royal insomnia The Reward The Fool’s Fight Key Lessons: Be like King Jesus. Don’t fight God. He never sleeps so you can. Click Here to Watch on YouTube The post #437 Esther 6 first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

  2. Aug 11

    #436 Public Square Ministry in New Zealand with Bob McCoskrie

    What does Christian engagement in public life look like in New Zealand? And what lessons should we learn from a nation further down the road of secularization and hostility toward Christian principles? In this episode, Bob McCoskrie from Family First New Zealand shares about his personal journey into ministry and his calling to engage the culture and government for the good of his nation; the systemic differences in New Zealand’s government (including an unwritten constitution) and recent debates over the anti-smacking law, marriage redefinition, euthanasia, and freedom of speech; the state of the church in New Zealand and increasing pressure to remain silent; and what gives him hope as he looks to the future. His perspective is a reminder that faithful citizenship is not ultimately about controlling political outcomes—it is about remaining faithful, speaking truth, serving others, and trusting God with the results. Bob McCoskrie is the Founder and National Director (Chief Executive) of Family First New Zealand, a leading pro-family and pro-life advocacy organisation established in 2006. A former talkback radio host on Radio Rhema and South Auckland social worker, Bob has spent decades championing strong marriages, stable families, and the protection of life as the foundations of a strong nation. He holds a Master of Commerce with Honours from the University of Auckland and a Diploma of Teaching from the Auckland College of Education. Since founding Family First, Bob has become one of New Zealand’s most prominent public voices on family policy. He has led national campaigns on issues including the anti-smacking legislation, the redefinition of marriage, abortion law reform, cannabis legalisation, euthanasia, gender ideology in schools, and protections for women and children Click Here to Watch on YouTube The post #436 Public Square Ministry in New Zealand with Bob McCoskrie first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

  3. Aug 4

    #435 The Latest Challenges and Opportunities for the Pro-Life Movement with Sue Swayze Liebel

    The 2022 Dobbs decision marked a historic victory for the pro-life movement—but it also ushered in a new era of challenges and opportunities. In this episode, Sue Swayze Liebel—Director of State Affairs for SBA Pro-Life America and a leading pro-life advocate—joins me to discuss where the movement stands today. We explore the rapidly changing legal landscape; state-by-state battles over abortion; the rise of chemical abortion; and the growing importance of serving women, children, and families with compassion and practical support. We also examine how Christians can engage faithfully in the public square, why the pro-life cause remains the defining human rights issues of our time, and what lies ahead as advocates continue working to protect the unborn. Whether you’re seeking to better understand the post-Dobbs landscape or looking for practical encouragement to make a difference, this conversation will equip you to strategically impact the life issue. Sue Liebel is the Director of State Affairs for SBA Pro-Life America, where she leads nationwide efforts to advance pro-life legislation and elect leaders who will protect women and unborn children. A longtime Indianapolis resident with over 30 years of experience in policy development, lobbying, and political strategy, Sue has worked with organizations including the United Way and the Indy Chamber of Commerce. Since the Dobbs decision, she has been instrumental in supporting state-level victories, including Indiana’s groundbreaking post-Roe legislation. Passionate about empowering the Church and communities to provide real support for women, Sue also oversees initiatives like Her Plan, a comprehensive Pregnancy & Life Assistance Network. A dedicated advocate who lives out her faith in the public square, Sue continues the legacy of trailblazing women like Susan B. Anthony by fighting for policies rooted in dignity, truth, and compassion. In this episode: The most recent legal and political developments affecting the pro-life movement. The significant worldview and discipleship challenges evident after Dobbs. The role of churches and Her Plan in supporting women and families. Reasons for hope in the years ahead. Click Here to Watch on YouTube The post #435 The Latest Challenges and Opportunities for the Pro-Life Movement with Sue Swayze Liebel first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

  4. Jul 7

    #434 Introducing Created Equal: America’s Founding Idea and Future Hope

    After two years of research and writing and just in time for America’s 250th, my latest book – Created Equal – is now live! The United States was founded on a profound and Biblical idea: all people are created by a Creator and are, therefore, equal. Though the phrases “created equal” and “made in the image of God” are often used in American public life, do we fully understand them? And how did this remarkable principle rooted in Genesis 1 end up in the Declaration of Independence? Most importantly, how can Americans recapture this ideal as a compelling and unifying vision for the United States in the 21st century? In this book, I explore America’s founding principle, review how she has faltered and triumphed in implementing it, and set out a vision for America’s future as example and champion of the truth that we are all created equal. This is my most historically-focused work, with 575 references (and many of them original sources in the National Archives). And I trace America’s story from thirteen small colonies to a world power that discovered flight and sent astronauts to the stars. I also tell the story of freedom and equality unfurling–like a flag in a stiff and relentless breeze–to every American and explain why our founding principle–though faded with time and inattention–is the best hope of a new birth of freedom in our time. *Note that we will be taking a summer break, and our next episode will release the first week of August! Link to the Kindle and Print versions. The post #434 Introducing Created Equal: America’s Founding Idea and Future Hope first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

  5. Jun 30

    #433 4 Facts about the 4th of July [Encore]

    As we prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday or semiquincentennial, here are 4 facts about the 4th of July and some reflections on America’s present and future. It was improbable. It was impressive. It was imperfect (think “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare…”). It is in peril. Links: Link to the state of abortion bans in the United States since the Dobbs case. Link to the Crucible of War on the Seven Year’s War and the events that led up to the War for Independence. Link to Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom. The post #433 4 Facts about the 4th of July [Encore] first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

  6. Jun 23

    #432 Rediscovering America’s Lost History with John and Faith Gelsthorpe

    After an inspirational family trip to Washington, D.C. in 2022, John and Faith Gelsthorpe launched Lost History Tours to create app-based, self-guided history tours that make David Barton’s rich historical knowledge accessible to everyone, anywhere. Just in time for America’s 250th (and summer road trips), here’s the story of this homeschool family’s kingdom entrepreneurship, some remarkable forgotten moments and individuals in American history, and how to use this tool to ensure America’s true history is never LOST. Key Takeaways: Lost History Tours Link to historical resources. More information about Benjamin Rush. Introduction to the correspondence between Abigail and John Adams. The fascinating story of Sybil Ludington. Plymouth Rock Pilgrim Mother Statue. Click Here to Watch on YouTube The post #432 Rediscovering America’s Lost History with John and Faith Gelsthorpe first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

  7. Jun 16

    #431 Esther 5

    In this chapter, the fate of Esther and her people hangs in the balance as she approaches the Persian king without invitation. This episode/sermon explores this dramatic moment, including the courage required to stand before an unpredictable ruler, the wisdom behind Esther’s surprising strategy, and the deadly pride and bitterness that consumed Haman. Along the way, we consider God’s providence working behind the scenes and the importance of using the position and influence God has entrusted to us. Series overview: Once upon a time—and I mean in God’s perfect time—a Jewish orphan girl named Esther became a Persian Queen. But, as many of you know, this book is less fairy tale and much more mystery—a book full of lessons about the mysteries of divine calling, evil and justice, finding courage to stand for truth, and understanding God’s eternal purposes in history and in our story. Though her husband claimed the title “king of kings,” Esther’s ultimate allegiance lay elsewhere—to the high King of the universe. In that sense, here’s the story and the lessons we should learn from Esther: the King’s Queen. Outline: Esther and the Scepter The Strategy Deadly Pride Key Takeaways: The archaeological evidence in Susa. Link to one-minute video of the Persian Capital City. Esther’s remarkable courage and political skill. The deadly sin of bitterness and pride. Click Here to Watch on YouTube The post #431 Esther 5 first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

  8. Jun 9

    #430 6 Remarkable Moments in American History

    As we count down toward America’s 250th anniversary, here’s a brief review and lessons from six of the most remarkable moments in our brief history as a nation: the signing of the Declaration of Independence against seemingly impossible odds, George Washington’s voluntary resignation of military power, the spark of the Second Great Awakening and spiritual and social renewal, Abraham Lincoln’s reflections on God’s judgment and call for reconciliation in his Second Inaugural Address, America’s perseverance through the darkest days of World War II and its restraint after gaining unprecedented power, and our bold venture into the stars (including the dramatic final moments before Apollo 11 touched down on the moon). Along the way, I explore why America’s greatest achievements have never been merely military, political, or technological; rather, they were moments when principle, character, and purpose shaped the nation’s destiny. And we should find courage and inspiration from these moments to face the challenges and seize the opportunities of our day. Click Here to Watch on YouTube The post #430 6 Remarkable Moments in American History first appeared on The Good Citizen Project.

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About

Equipping Christians to confidently and effectively engage in public life. Hosted by attorney, minister, and speaker Josh Hershberger, the Good Citizen Podcast focuses on the ideas, encouragement, and practical examples you need to impact and even transform your zip code, state, and nation.

Information

  • Creator
    Joshua Hershberger: Attorney | Minister | Speaker
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    75
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Good Citizen Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Good Citizen Podcast