The Sword & The Trowel

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The Sword & The Trowel is the weekly Founders Ministries podcast with Tom Ascol. New episodes drop every Tuesday.

Recent Episodes
  • TS&TT: SBC 2025: The ERLC, Law Amendment, and Financial Transparency
    Jun 5, 2025 – 00:39:21
  • TS&TT: The 1689 Confession: Creation
    May 29, 2025 – 00:55:28
  • TS&TT: Josh Buice and Treacherous, “Anonymous” Sin
    May 22, 2025 – 00:48:44
  • TS&TT: The Business of Is-Ness: How to Live in the World God Made
    May 15, 2025 – 00:41:26
  • TS&TT: The 1689 Confession: God's Decree
    May 8, 2025 – 01:02:54
  • TS&TT: Stuck in Space: A Conversation with Captain Barry Wilmore
    May 1, 2025 – 00:52:15
  • TS&TT: The 1689 Confession: God and the Holy Trinity (Part 2)
    Apr 24, 2025 – 00:51:59
  • TS&TT: What Christians Should Know About the Current Global Chaos
    Apr 17, 2025 – 01:05:51
  • TS&TT: The 1689 Confession: God and the Holy Trinity (Part 1)
    Apr 10, 2025 – 00:51:06
  • TS&TT: The Dangers of Our Egalitarian Age
    Mar 27, 2025 – 00:47:08
  • TS&TT: Q&A: Eastern Orthodoxy, Baptism & More
    Mar 20, 2025 – 00:50:58
  • TS&TT: Must Christians Lose Down Here?
    Mar 13, 2025 – 00:54:28
  • TS&TT: God in Three Persons: From Nicea to Now
    Mar 6, 2025 – 00:50:07
  • TS&TT: SBC Financial Transparency: How do We Restore Trust in our Institutions?
    Feb 27, 2025 – 00:41:51
  • TS&TT: Fiscal Transparency: What Hath DOGE to do with Your Congregation
    Feb 20, 2025 – 00:47:30
  • TS&TT: Immigration: Honoring God by Obeying His Law
    Feb 13, 2025 – 00:44:08
  • TS&TT: Founders Seminary: Sharp Minds. Warm Hearts. Steel Spines.
    Feb 6, 2025 – 00:45:39
  • TS&TT: The Christian and His Wealth
    Jan 30, 2025 – 00:52:17
  • TS&TT: The 1689 Confession: The Holy Scriptures (Part 2)
    Jan 16, 2025 – 00:52:18
  • TS&TT: The Christian Response to Terrorism
    Jan 9, 2025 – 00:46:53
  • TS&TT: A New Year: Retrospect and Prospect
    Jan 2, 2025 – 00:41:25
  • TS&TT: True or False: A Discussion with Dr. Richard Barcellos
    Dec 19, 2024 – 00:52:53
  • TS&TT: Striving for the Faith: Living a Life on Mission
    Dec 12, 2024 – 00:54:16
  • TS&TT: The 1689 Confession: The Holy Scriptures (Part 1)
    Dec 5, 2024 – 00:53:02
  • TS&TT: What is a Reformed Baptist?
    Nov 27, 2024 – 00:53:01
  • TS&TT: Lessons from Lawson's Fall: Essential Ecclesiology
    Nov 21, 2024 – 00:49:05
  • TS&TT: President-Elect Trump & God's Providence in the 2024 Election
    Nov 14, 2024 – 00:50:53
  • TS&TT: The 1689 Confession: An Introduction
    Nov 7, 2024 – 00:44:27
  • TS&TT: Baptists: Heirs of the Reformation
    Oct 31, 2024 – 00:47:44
  • TS&TT: A Christian Perspective on Politics and Abortion
    Oct 24, 2024 – 00:55:20
  • TS&TT: Dear Titus: Letters On Church Planting
    Oct 17, 2024 – 00:42:48
  • TS&TT: When Church Leaders Sin Scandalously
    Oct 3, 2024 – 00:49:41
  • TS&TT: Building and Fighting for the Glory of God
    Sep 26, 2024 – 00:44:58
  • TS&TT: Big News For The Sword & The Trowel Podcast!
    Sep 24, 2024 – 00:00:39
  • TS&TT: Zachary Garris | Honor Thy Fathers - Recovering the Anti-Feminist Theology of the Reformers
    Sep 17, 2024 – 00:37:10
  • TS&TT: The Active Obedience of Christ & Doctrine of Imputation
    Sep 10, 2024 – 00:29:06
  • TS&TT: Q&A Podcast - Politics, Predestination, Just War Theory & More...
    Sep 3, 2024 – 00:38:06
  • TS&TT: Evangelicals for Harris & The Democratic National Convention
    Aug 27, 2024 – 00:25:27
  • TS&TT: Productive Christians & Churches For The Glory of God
    Aug 13, 2024 – 00:29:50
  • TS&TT: Bradley Pierce | The Truth About Abortion Rates In Our Post-Roe World
    Aug 6, 2024 – 00:35:48
  • TS&TT: Fighting Against The Murder of Babies In Florida - Saying No To Amendment 4
    Jul 30, 2024 – 00:36:23
  • TS&TT: The Unbiblical Shifting Of The Republican National Platform
    Jul 23, 2024 – 00:28:05
  • TS&TT: Trump's Assassination Attempt - Honoring God in the Midst of Political Violence
    Jul 16, 2024 – 00:35:29
  • TS&TT: How To Think Christianly In Politically Unstable Times
    Jul 9, 2024 – 00:40:53
  • TS&TT: Carrie Gress | The End of Woman: How Smashing the Patriarchy Destroyed Us
    Jul 2, 2024 – 00:45:02
  • TS&TT: Ben Dunson | 2024 PCA General Assembly Debrief - Encouragements & Discouragements
    Jun 25, 2024 – 00:36:37
  • TS&TT: #SBC24 Debrief - Encouragements & Disappointments
    Jun 18, 2024 – 00:49:14
  • TS&TT: David Mitzenmacher | SBC, Antisemitism Awareness Act & Religious Liberty
    Jun 7, 2024 – 00:34:38
  • TS&TT: Voddie Baucham | It's Not Like Being Black: The Sexual Activists Hijacking of Civil Rights
    Jun 4, 2024 – 00:46:55
  • TS&TT: Dominion Mandate & The Great Commission: What Is Our Responsibility In This World?
    May 28, 2024 – 00:38:07
Recent Reviews
  • ilovemaple:)
    Poor theology
    Disappointing to see the they use the Bible and interpret it to serve their agenda.
  • this is my nicknameeeeeeeeee
    Biblical? No.
    The hosts take hard stances without actual and relevant biblical references. They confuse theology with political affiliation, and, not to mention, they are highly misogynistic.
  • Nomorenicknames:(-
    Questionable advertising
    You hurt your credibility when you make questionable claims (seed oils) or misuse scripture (cleanse your hands…) or make silly statements(drip … not your babies) in your advertising
  • Brad_Scott
    Some political conclusions don’t quite add up
    Actually a decent podcast but once in a while when one of the hosts go into the political foray they’ll make statements such as “any Christian who supports a democrat, supports the platform and that’s sin because it involves abortion.” I understand the logic but sadly, no party or political candidate(either Republican or democrat) follows a platform to a T and that’s especially for a voter. Christians sadly are in a bind with American political parties; either one that supports abortion or one that heralds a sinner convicted of crimes to cover adultery. Sometimes when it’s two choices, you’re going to sin. But assuming one is going to sin voting democrat and the other voting republican is not, is wrong. We all are sinning in the political atmosphere and sadly, Christians can’t seem to find better men and women to lead this nation. I stopped listening sadly after that particular statement from a host.
  • KelownaEd
    Pastors Asleep
    Seems that the flock is very awake on these cultural issues that affect the church but many pastors remain asleep or lack courage to speak.
  • Quinticus Maximus
    Volume of Pastor Tom’s mic
    My only critique of this show, and it has nothing to do with any of the content or guests, is that out of all the podcasts I listen to, only this one has a host that is very difficult to hear. Pastor Tom speaks low, and his mic must also be at a low volume because it is very difficult to hear at times. If this could be fixed, I’d put down a five star review! Thanks again for y’all’s service, Pastor Tom and Graham, please maintain your faithfulness to the gospel truth! Best regards, Seth.
  • AngelicMink
    Lazy theology
    Good example of culturally and personally informed view of scripture vs scripture informing the worldview. Disappointing for “church elders”.
  • Noob116
    Biblically Solid and Engaging
    I thoroughly enjoy this edify podcast and look forward to every episode.
  • Nelsondj0
    Helpful
    I appreciate the stands the Founders takes!
  • mikemoenkedick
    A gift
    Founders Ministry is a gift from God.
  • Tj B86
    Founders is terrific
    Really appreciate Founders and their commitment to look st the world through the lens of the Bible. Thankful for their faithful stand for truth.
  • *+*Breese
    Solid brothers!
    Solid theology, unwavering commitment to the gospel
  • kassdup
    So encouraged by these faithful men
    Have loved hearing these men speak on the events of our day. I am always convicted by how careful and gentle they are to really call anyone out— but they are also unafraid of stating the truth, with the hope that it calls their brothers and sisters in the faith to repentence. Really appreciate their work here. Particularly encouraging that though I respect so many churches who have stepped away from the SBC, and understand why they have; Tom Ascoll faithfully keeps calling to the SBC the truths that God has given us and hopes for a better day for the SBC.
  • The Last Gentleman
    Whitewashed sepulchers
    “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness.” —Matthew 23:27 (KJV)
  • bGuiles
    Just more smooth talking cherry pickers
    Cherry-picking, smooth talking judges while horse-blinders. By their fruit, you see them for who they really are.
  • Melii R.
    Christ Centered
    Nowadays it’s so hard to find good, wholesome, and Christ centered podcasts. Thank you for providing us with such enriching episodes 🙏🏼
  • J.D.Lane
    Great show
    I appreciate their clarity of thought and their convictions.
  • User81573992716737
    Excellent faithful and bold for the truth!
    I really appreciate these men and their boldness with God’s truth. They do not shy away from controversial topics that are harming churches. My wife and I have been so blessed by this podcast.
  • elledubs001
    These men aren’t afraid
    This is one of my favorite podcasts—as a mother of young children, I’m heartened by the boldness of the conversations and the arguments made for truth that our culture really needs right now. Every time I see a new episode title, I just want to clap and give these guys a steak dinner. They’re that good!
  • aallen554
    Fantastic. Biblical . Truthful .
    Holy BoldNESS! Biblical worldview. A good reminder see that as Christians we are supposed to be DIFFERENT than the world.
  • Noobsdieforever
    Really eye-opening and amazing!
    A wonderful podcast that explores various topics from a bibilical worldview. Founders Ministries is a wonderful gift from God. I can not recommend them enough. Keep it up!
  • Tdhow11
    They really like their school
    Be careful to condemn so many others in your attempt to be perfect in your theology.
  • Blessed by Grace Alone
    So Grateful for this Podcast!!
    I truly appreciate both of you, the Sword and the Trowel has been a true blessing to both my husband and I during this lockdown. We thank you for all the hard topics and important issues you’ve been so graciously willing to cover. May God continue to bless the advancement and growth of both this Podcast as well as the Ezra Institute. We desperately need sound biblical preaching in our Pulpits!! Thanks again Lord Bless
  • Firstpeter13
    So helpful!
    I discovered the Sword and the Trowel during the time my church was completely closed down due to government mandates. I thank God for it and all I have learned from it. I’ve purchased many of their resources and many resources they recommend and these also have been of tremendous benefit to my spiritual growth. These two brothers always point us to Jesus Christ, the author and finisher of our faith.
  • BlessedBunch
    COVID 19 Vaccine Episode
    Excellent episode! SO encouraged me to submit, pray, and act biblically. Thank you Pastors!
  • Oscarsmama
    Excellent!
    Love this often brief, but always excellent and thoughtful podcast!
  • Holy Ears
    Encouraging
    Hi Guys! I just started listening to learn more about Pastor Jimmy Coates. I have been encouraged by the stance you all are taking. We are with you here in North Carolina! I also want to suggest that you publish an email address and a physical address where we can send letters of encouragement to the Coates family as well as apply pressure to the Canadian Government in doing what is just and right.
  • Frenchbox by the sea
    We need more men like this
    I’m thankful for this podcast as it is Biblically sound and helpful for Christians navigating our culture. They are bold yet humble in how they present arguments in the issues we face (and must address) as a Church to the secular world.
  • Number2outof5
    New Listener
    Doctrinally sound and doesn’t pull any punches. Doesn’t follow “trends” and “fads” when it comes to Christianity, only doubles down on what the gospel says.
  • T buggy
    Excellent Content!
    Rich, doctrinally sound podcast! Fast becoming a favorite.
  • Big Lewdog
    Legit
    Reformed, honest, setting the bar.
  • Cardinal One
    Fighting the Good Fight
    It’s always informative to hear from Tom and Jared about current and historical events that are important to our Christian heritage. Growing up Southern Baptist I never heard about our reformed history. My great great grandfather donated the land for two Southern Baptist churches and I keep up with what’s going on even though I left the denomination years ago. I go to a Reformed Baptist Church and was amazed that the SBC has reformed Baptist inside the denomination. It’s ashamed that the SBC for the most part left their roots years ago!
  • Russell.Taylor
    Biblical Church Health
    With so many people measuring church health in pragmatic ways, it’s refreshing to have a ministry dedicated to BIBLICAL church health.
  • ccd121314
    Sound doctrine + great conversations
    Salt of the earth was the first thing that came to mind (Matthew 5:13). Very well done and deeply rooted in the only truth that sets us free.
  • Philip Heard
    Outstanding Biblical Perspectives
    The world is a crazy place, and if you want to make any sense of it, you need to see it through the lens of the Christian Bible. This is a great podcast to do that with.
  • Kammypop
    Good show if you need common sense !
    Not sure how much I like the patronizing. But maybe some young folk can learn here...
  • LoLoLorine
    Outstanding Biblical Discussions
    With so many erroneous voices today it’s hard to know who to listen to if you’re not, yourself, rooted and grounded in the Word of God. The Sword & The Trowel is a podcast that you can trust to give you the truth according to God’s Word - not an opinion. I HIGHLY recommend them! They will keep you updated on all pertinent issues of the day from a biblical perspective. I’m so thankful for them and their stand for righteousness- much, much needed!!
  • Arnaez7
    Great Content
    If you want to hear a podcast with a genuine Biblical world view and the Gospel being upfront and foremost, this is a good one to have...the content is great. From how scripture speaks into our culture today to specific book reviews, Pastor Tom and Jared are seeking to care for God’s people in an authentic way.
  • Indy909x
    Valuable and Timely
    Founders are doing some of the best work in fighting the downgrade of evangelicalism. They have sounded a call in the SBC, and are fighting against the infiltration of liberalism, critical race theory, and Marxism. I would also recommend checking out their website. They have a number of excellent articles on a whole host of doctrinal and theological issues!
  • Strongman98
    Great cast
    So much good teaching and clarification. I found our local reformed church through founders and was so excited to hear when they announced this podcast was gonna happen. I have not been disappointed.
  • Chris Huff
    By His standard!!!
    I cannot even begin to express my gratitude for Founders ministries and the consistent way they point us back to the scriptures in all things above human traditions!
  • Threeletterlost
    Excellent Content For The Discerning SBCer
    Great podcast. The hosts are fantastic. I always come away wanting read more which is great. My only note it for some reason the sound is very low compared to other shows I listen to. Maybe a quick editing fix?
  • BST66
    Timely Content
    I have been listening to Founders for a few months now. I am constantly kept abreast of the latest content and things relevant to the Church today. Thanks for the timely and well thought out content that is provided.
  • Dwatchman
    Great content
    Founders is a great ministry with wonderful guys. Good podcast. Great content. Spot on. As a 1689er...I’m enjoying it. Keep bringing the 🔥!
  • AppleUser2014a
    Helpful, humble, Biblical
    Really appreciate this God-glorifying Christ-centered podcast!
  • Jesusrodeadonkey
    Great but...
    These two mostly certainly are individuals after Gods heart, but I personally feel that some of this things that they have said (especially about politics) could use another viewpoint and I think having Christians on the podcast with different viewpoints would provide listeners with an opportunity to understand how others think rather than being told how to think.
  • PastorPitman
    Highly recommended
    For clear content, timely topics and interesting insights, you will find no better podcast.
  • Doworkk
    On the go-to podcast list
    Phenomenal podcast that is full of great content. These two guys provide a great resource for any listener striving to grow in their faith and their knowledge of how to interact with a secular culture as a gospel believer.
  • Vader_74
    Excellent and Practical
    These podcasts are very helpful, timely, and varied in topics. I always learn something from Pastor Tom...and Jared too. Keep it up! Keep being faithful and uplifting.
  • JacobS@sbts
    Great Podcast!
    This has quickly become one of my favorite podcasts. The format is consistent. They talk about issues of the day, offer great book reviews and cover Biblical commands. I definitely recommended this podcast and ministry! Founders resources have been very helpful to me.
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