The Issues Podcast
Proverbs 4:23 (KJV) – “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”
Welcome to The Issues Podcast (formerly the Dear Church Podcast). Pastors Martin Wickens and Stephen Russ, along with special guests, get to the heart of the real issues that matter. With a burden to stir your heart and challenge your thinking, they dive into key topics within the Independent, Fundamental Baptist movement.
It’s time to face the issues that shape your life and faith.
Are you ready to deal with the issues?
Proverbs 4:23 (KJV) – “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”
Welcome to The Issues Podcast (formerly the Dear Church Podcast). Pastors Martin Wickens and Stephen Russ, along with special guests, get to the heart of the real issues that matter. With a burden to stir your heart and challenge your thinking, they dive into key topics within the Independent, Fundamental Baptist movement.
It’s time to face the issues that shape your life and faith.
Are you ready to deal with the issues?
Episodes

Oct 7, 2025
Issue #70 – The Bane of Busyness
Oct 7, 2025
Oct 7, 2025
59 min
Busyness doesn’t equal godliness. In this episode, Martin and Stephen tackle the subtle but dangerous trap of equating a packed schedule with spiritual growth. They discuss practical ways to evaluate your schedule, set healthy boundaries, and keep your priorities aligned with what truly matters.

Sep 30, 2025
Issue #69 – Is this Revival?
Sep 30, 2025
Sep 30, 2025
1hr 8 min
The word “revival” is being talked about everywhere—but what does it really mean? In today’s episode, we dig into the heart of the matter: What is true revival? Is it happening right now? And what role, if any, do we play in ushering it in?Join us for a thoughtful and timely conversation you won’t want to miss.

Sep 23, 2025
Issue #68 – The Prayers of Acts
Sep 23, 2025
Sep 23, 2025
59 min
The Book of Acts records the birth of the New Testament church—a movement conceived in prayer, fueled by prayer, and sustained by prayer. In this episode, Stephen and Martin dive deeper into its powerful lessons for us today!

Sep 16, 2025
Sep 16, 2025
1hr 37 sec
Charlie Kirk was not only a political figure—he stood as a bold witness for truth and faith in Christ, which makes his death both a political and spiritual martyrdom. In this conversation, we discuss:➡️ What this reveals about our culture➡️ How the church should respond in times of hostility➡️ Why courage and conviction are more vital than ever

Sep 9, 2025
Sep 9, 2025
1hr 1 min
🎙️ On this episode of the Issues Podcast, we sit down with two young men in their 20s who are faithfully serving the Lord in ministry. While their years of experience may be fewer, their perspective is fresh, their passion is contagious, and their insights are worth hearing. Join us for a thoughtful and encouraging conversation with Landon Street and Micah Still.

Sep 2, 2025
Sep 2, 2025
1hr 6 min
As social media grows increasingly toxic, Christians have a unique opportunity to shine as lights through gracious and Spirit-filled communication. In this episode, Martin and Stephen reflect on the future of the podcast while tackling how believers can use their words online to point others to Christ.

May 19, 2025
May 19, 2025
1hr 4 min
🎙️ It’s the season finale of the Issues podcast! Today, we dive deep into the challenge of responding to current events—not with knee-jerk emotion, but with wisdom that actually helps the people we serve. If you've ever wrestled with when to speak up and how to do it biblically, this episode is for you. Plus, stick around for a big announcement from Tom at the end!
We’ve loved every moment of this season—thank you for listening, sharing, and growing with us.

May 13, 2025
Issue #63 – ⚡️ Lightning Round ⚡️
May 13, 2025
May 13, 2025
50 min
Welcome to ⚡️ Lightning Round — where bold questions meet blistering opinions.
In this episode, a provocative topic is thrown on the table, and the crew has just 3 minutes to dive in. Whether it’s theology, ministry, culture, or controversy, expect passionate debate, raw honesty, and a few holy jabs along the way!
No filters. No fluff. Just camp-meeting fire and fundamentalist fury. When the buzzer hits, it’s on to the next one!




