The Debrief Podcast with Matthew Stephen Brown Sandals Church

Get an insider's peek into the glamorous yet complex world of film production in a conversation with film producer Darren Moorman on The Debrief Podcast with Matthew Stephen Brown. Darren’s entry into the film industry wasn't just a professional move; it was a journey to align his faith-inspired stories with the awe-inspiring spectacle of film. Though shrouded with numerous trials like the writer's strike that slowed the industry to a massive financial slog, he has not been deterred. Darren, whose dedication to storytelling and steadfast faith have propelled his success in Hollywood, embraces these obstacles, demonstrating that bravery embodies not only survival but truly living.
Questions we answer on this episode from our listeners:
1. Janet from Yucaipa, CA. Should Christians watch horror movies?
2. RJ from Bullhead City, Arizona. In Hollywood you hear stories of people selling their souls to Satan. Is this a physical contract you sign with a demon or is selling your soul more of you just living an ungodly lifestyle and choosing that life over Jesus or does nobody know? I love your sermons and I love the podcast! Thank you!!!
3. Mark from Moreno Valley, CA. I went and saw the movie Oppenheimer the second day it opened, not knowing of the sex scenes. In a recent article from Denison Forum, it was stated that this movie, because of these scenes, caused millions of Americans to commit Adultery based on Matthew 5:28. I remember thinking when these scenes were shown, "why did they have to put this in the movie"? Just wondering what Pastor Matt's opinion is on this?
4. Kimberly from Phelan, CA. I've been having a difficult time answering this question: "Is it sinful to support nudity or to see nudity.” It has been so normalized in today's society and it personally bothers me, but with some of my Christian friends it’s normal to see. I understand that it doesn’t say nudity is a sin in the Bible. However, I also think the action leading up to the nudity or the purpose behind it can make it sinful. An example would be viewing a scene in a movie where a woman is topless, taking a shower, topless in a bar, or a nude man in a random scene, etc. I believe that nudity is a sin if it does not have a godly purpose behind it, which is hardly ever seen in movies or tv shows. Like when God told Isaiah to preach in his nakedness to the people, that is okay because God commanded him to. Can you see people naked and it not be sexual on a screen or off?
5. Anonymous from Loma Linda, CA. Is pedophilia as prevalent as the (typically conservative) media is making it seem in Hollywood?

In this weeks episode we're diving into some real-life topics that hit close to home. From growing up with an alcoholic father and the challenges it brings to managing conflict in a marriage, we're keeping it real. Join us as we discuss the often complex but crucial role of pastoral care, soul care, and professional counseling within the church – all in the quest to save a marriage and avoid divorce. But it doesn't stop there! We're also pondering the age-old question: How do you know when you're right with God and who is the witch from Endor? 

This weeks episode delves into a series of thought-provoking questions that touch upon various aspects of faith and life. Topics include the personal nature of belief and faith in God, the challenges of wrestling with doubt despite a desire for spiritual connection, the essential needs of the modern church, the pursuit of hearing the voice of God and dealing with doubts after a period of spiritual distance, the struggle of leading a family when communication turns abusive, sharing faith in a mission-oriented workplace, navigating fear of expressing Christian beliefs in a cancel culture society, and the potential consequences of church affiliation with larger organizations. The episode also explores the church's mission and vision in reaching the unreached and offers insights on how to serve beyond the confines of a church's physical walls. Join us as we journey through these deep and impactful questions of faith and life.

In this episode of the show, various individuals from different parts of the world bring forward their questions and concerns to Pastor Matthew Stephen Brown:


Israel-Palestine Conflict: The first question addresses the complex situation in Israel, inquiring about the emotions and nuances surrounding this issue, and the perception that supporting one side means being against the other.

Abusive Relationships: A listener from Louisiana discusses the harmful consequences of traditional gender roles and submission in a marriage plagued by abuse and addiction, seeking guidance on what constitutes healthy and unhealthy practices for wives dealing with abusive partners.

Seeking God's Plan: A young woman from Berlin, expresses her fear and uncertainty about her future, particularly her desire for marriage and children, questioning whether to let go of her dreams or hold onto them as she searches for God's plan.

Divine Revelation and Hell: An individual from India asks about the absence of Jesus physically appearing to everyone for belief and salvation, and the moral implications of God creating humanity despite the prospect of eternal suffering for some.

Salvation for Intellectually Disabled Individuals: A parent from California raises concerns about their intellectually disabled child's understanding of salvation and questions if there's a "loophole" for their child's salvation, considering their unique perspective on reality.

Struggling with Sexual Sin: The final question comes from Washington, addressing the ongoing struggle with sexual sin in the context of a Christian faith journey, seeking practical advice to avoid these temptations, especially within a relationship.
The show delves into these diverse and challenging topics, providing insights, guidance, and biblical perspectives to help the listeners navigate these complex issues and make informed decisions in their lives.

This weeks episode dives deep into questions and concerns faced by individuals navigating their faith journeys. From addressing the challenges of social anxiety hindering church attendance to exploring unconventional approaches to marriage in later life, we unravel the complexities of modern Christianity. We also delve into the pain of betrayal and judgment within church communities, the dilemma of choosing between an online and in-person church experience, the purpose of the church as a place for healing, and the significance of contextual knowledge versus isolated scripture verses. Plus, we examine the balance between small group dynamics and seeking community with people in similar life stages. Join us as we uncover the diverse and thought-provoking aspects of faith and community in this captivating podcast episode!