Is Christian nationalism an exaggerated term? And is God overtaking Hollywood? These are just two of the big topics we hit on today's "Higher Ground with Billy Hallowell" as we welcome the Rev. Samual Rodriguez to the show.
Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, is on a mission to reach the masses with biblical truth. His quest has stretched from the the pulpit to Hollywood, with the preacher producing hit films like "Flamin' Hot" and "Breakthrough."
The fascinating mixture of Gospel and movie-making is something Rodriguez said first came on his radar 10 years ago when he was pastoring in church and a woman came up to the microphone and said, "Samuel, God says 'Hollywood.'"
"I had no inclination for Hollywood, no desire for Hollywood, to be honest," he said. "I was one of those evangelical pastors who would preach strongly against Hollywood."
But Rodriguez said he soon received a call from Paramount about screening the film "Noah" to see how it might appeal to the Christian community. He agreed and informed them the movie would likely not perform well among the evangelical community — a prediction that certainly came to fruition. That, of course, was just the beginning.
On today's show, we'll discuss:
- What led Rodriguez into Hollywood
- His biggest concerns about culture
- Whether "Christian nationalism" is an overstated threat
- ...and more!
What is God, Country & the American Story With Billy Hallowell?
"God, Country & the American Story" is a groundbreaking new podcast from The Washington Times that explores the powerful role the Christian faith has had in the lives of America’s leaders, from the founders to the movers and shakers of today.
Veteran journalist and author Billy Hallowell sits down with lawmakers, high-ranking officials, business titans, historians, faith leaders, and cultural influencers to examine how belief in God has guided the nation’s most powerful leaders and pivotal moments - and continues to fuel the American experiment.
This series honors America’s spiritual heritage while tackling today’s most pressing questions: How has faith shaped the nation? What role does it play in the lives of public officials? And what does the future hold for faith and freedom in America?
As the country prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, join us for thought-provoking conversations that uncover the soul of a nation—rooted in God and destined for greatness.