Summary of "The Briefing with Albert Mohler" – March 14, 2025

Hosted by R. Albert Mohler, Jr., "The Briefing" offers daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview. In the March 14, 2025, episode, Mohler delves into contemporary cultural issues, governmental policies, and theological questions, providing insightful commentary grounded in biblical principles.

1. Health and Human Services’ Gender Policy Announcement

Timestamp: [00:00 – 18:30]

Albert Mohler opens the episode by discussing a significant policy announcement from Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Following a directive from President Trump’s executive order, the HHS has officially recognized only two genders: male and female. This classification is based on biological definitions—"female is described as the gender capable of producing the large reproductive cell, male is identified as the gender capable of producing these small reproductive cells." [02:15]

Mohler expresses cautious optimism about this stance, emphasizing "restoring biological truth to the federal government" as stated by Secretary Kennedy. However, he questions Kennedy's personal beliefs, citing his past alignment with social liberalism and familial opposition to his appointment. Mohler remarks, "Secretary Kennedy by himself, I would not trust on this matter," [04:50] highlighting the complexity of a cabinet member genuinely believing in policies dictated by the administration.

Further, Mohler critiques media representations, specifically referencing a New York Times report by Cheryl Gay Stolberg. He points out the nuanced distinction made between intersex individuals and transgender youth:

• Intersex Individuals: "Some individuals are intersex and have sexual anatomy or chromosomes that do not fit typical definitions of male and female." [07:20]

• Transgender Youth: "Some children do not identify with either gender or identify with a gender that does not correspond to their biological sex." [08:45]

Mohler underscores the importance of recognizing intersex conditions with sympathy while being vigilant about the conflation of biological facts with gender identity politics. He warns of the "sleight of hand" in shifting narratives from biology to identity without clear demarcation, urging Christians to discern these changes critically.

2. The Story of Jackie and Shadow: A Testament to God’s Creation

Timestamp: [18:31 – 25:20]

Transitioning from policy commentary, Mohler shares an uplifting story about Jackie and Shadow, a pair of bald eagles at Big Bear Lake. Despite facing adversities—"eggs were eaten by ravens" and failures due to "unusual cold"—the pair successfully hatched three chicks. Mohler highlights the "love of God shown in creation" through the eagles' unwavering dedication to their offspring.

He describes the eagles' parenting as a reflection of divine care:

• Shadow’s Hunting: Regular hunting trips ensuring food for the chicks.
• Mother’s Devotion: "Mom has to eat first... rip up a fish just into bite-sized portions for tiny little eagle chicks." [21:10]

Mohler invites listeners to observe the eagles via webcams, emphasizing how “God planted in the hearts of these birds a desire, a determination, an absolute commitment to do everything possible to protect these little chicks.” [23:45] He concludes this segment by celebrating the resilience and beauty of creation, attributing it to the "glory of God."

3. Listener Questions and Theological Insights

Timestamp: [25:21 – 57:30]

a. Doctrinal Dispute: Heart vs. Head

Question: A 19-year-old woman is in a dispute with her boyfriend over reliance on the head versus the heart, citing biblical references about the heart being deceitful.

Mohler’s Response: Mohler explains that "the heart represents the center of who we are... It includes the mind." [26:00] He emphasizes that the mind cannot be separated from the heart, as both are integral to one's consciousness and moral agency. The solution lies in "the ordinary means of grace"—engaging with scripture, prayer, and fellowship to align one's heart and mind with Christ.

b. Presidential Profanity: When Did It Start?

Question: David inquires about when U.S. presidents began using profanity publicly.

Mohler’s Response: Mohler distinguishes between the ceremonial "swearing in" of presidents and the use of profanity:

• Historical Context: While private use of strong language by presidents like Nixon and Johnson has been documented, public profanity became more noticeable with recent presidents.
• Modern Instances: "I think I first noticed it... with President Trump and President Biden." [34:10]

He critiques the erosion of presidential credibility due to profanity, linking it to broader cultural shifts that equate "profane language... with showing moral seriousness or exaggerated masculinity." Mohler argues that such language undermines genuine strength and moral authority.

c. Christian Perspective on Mardi Gras

Question: What should Christians think about participating in Mardi Gras?

Mohler’s Response: Acknowledging Mardi Gras as a "civic celebration," Mohler recognizes aspects like bands and parades as benign. However, he cautions against the "fleshly desires" inherent in the festival, such as overeating and excessive drinking. Christians are advised to "avoid the fleshly and profane parts of a festival" while not being "community killjoys." He draws parallels to the issue of public profanity, suggesting a cultural trend towards embracing behaviors contrary to Christian values.

d. The First Sin in the Fall

Question: What was the first sin in the biblical Fall—Eve’s bite, Adam’s failure, or another act?

Mohler’s Response: Mohler asserts that "it was then," encompassing all identified sins—Eve’s action, Adam’s failure to lead, and their collective disobedience. He emphasizes Adam as the "federal head," meaning his sin collectively represents humanity’s fall. The focus remains on Adam’s violation of God’s explicit command, which "in Adam, we all sinned." [42:30]

e. Purpose of the Sermon in Church Services

Question: Is the main goal of sermons to encourage self-examination rather than worshiping God?

Mohler’s Response: Mohler clarifies that while sermons include self-examination, their ultimate purpose is to glorify God. He explains that "the Word directs you to consider yourself... as a mirror to see ourselves" [48:15]. This dual focus ensures that sermons lead individuals to worship God by recognizing their need for His grace and conforming to the image of Christ.

f. Importance of Jesus’ Resurrection

Question: Why does Jesus’ resurrection matter if His death already accomplished atonement?

Mohler’s Response: Referencing 1 Corinthians 15, Mohler underscores that without the resurrection, "we are still dead in our trespasses and sins." [52:40] The resurrection serves as divine confirmation of Jesus’ atoning work and His victory over sin and death. It validates the substitutionary sacrifice and signifies God’s acceptance and exaltation of Christ, which "proves that... we are saved." Mohler concludes, "Thanks be to God that the Father raised the Son from the dead and we are saved." [56:55]

4. Conclusion

Mohler wraps up the episode by emphasizing the interconnectedness of biblical truths with contemporary issues, encouraging listeners to engage deeply with scripture and maintain a discerning stance towards cultural shifts. He invites the audience to visit his website and follow him on social media for more insights and information about affiliated institutions like the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Boyce College.

For more detailed discussions and theological insights, visit Albert Mohler's website or follow him on Twitter.