Summary of "The Briefing with Albert Mohler"
Episode: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Podcast Information:
- Title: The Briefing with Albert Mohler
- Host/Author: R. Albert Mohler, Jr.
- Description: Cultural Commentary from a Biblical Perspective
- Episode Date: June 17, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of The Briefing with Albert Mohler, host R. Albert Mohler, Jr. delves into the origins and evolution of Pride Month in the United States, examining its impact on Western civilization from a Christian worldview. Mohler seeks to understand the rapid moral shifts surrounding LGBTQ issues and the broader implications for societal values.
Origins of Pride Month
Mohler begins by tracing Pride Month back to the pivotal event of June 1969—the Stonewall Riots at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. He describes this as the catalyst for the organized LGBTQ movement in the U.S., emphasizing its significance in challenging longstanding moral frameworks.
"June is often declared to be Pride Month, meaning LGBTQ Pride Month in the United States. ... that particular hallmark event is considered to be the origins of the organized LGBTQ movement in the United States." (00:00)
Influence of Bill and Hillary Clinton
The discussion shifts to the political realm, highlighting President Bill Clinton's role in officially declaring June as Pride Month. Mohler points out Clinton's initial promise to normalize homosexual troops in the military, a pledge he ultimately retracted, yet underscores the continued activism of both Clinton and his wife, Hillary.
"Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary Clinton, were pretty much on the front lines." (00:05)
Current Status of the LGBTQ Movement
Mohler explores whether the influence of Pride Month has waned by 2025, suggesting that its traction remains strong. He underscores the need for Christians to evaluate how such moral transformations occurred so swiftly, questioning the sustainability and direction of the ongoing LGBTQ advancements.
"The fast answer is probably not [lost traction]. But it is really important that Christians... ask ourselves the question of how this moral change could have taken place." (00:12)
Moral Change and Societal Division
The host analyzes the significant moral divide that has emerged over decades, noting the stark contrast between past and present American attitudes toward marriage and sexuality. Mohler reflects on societal shifts post the Supreme Court's Obergefell decision, highlighting the deepening cleavages in American cultural and moral landscapes.
"By the time you come to 2024... you're looking at a real cleavage in the American people, a real divide, a massive divide over these issues." (00:20)
Role of Activists and Media in Advancing LGBTQ Agendas
Mohler attributes the rapid advancement of LGBTQ rights to committed activists who present their agenda as mainstream societal demands. He critically examines the role of the mainstream media, particularly USA Today, in facilitating and promoting the LGBTQ movement's objectives.
"One of the main facilitators in this society has been the mainstream media... particularly the LGBTQ revolution." (00:30)
Case Study: USA Today’s Portrayal of LGBTQ Issues
A significant portion of the episode focuses on USA Today's coverage of LGBTQ topics. Mohler critiques the newspaper for what he perceives as blatant propaganda supporting LGBTQ narratives, citing specific articles that advocate for LGBTQ rights without addressing traditional moral or scriptural perspectives.
Example 1: Gay Couples and Surrogacy
Mohler discusses an article by Adriana Rodriguez and David Oliver that highlights the challenges gay male couples face in navigating surrogacy systems designed for heterosexuals.
"USA Today is clearly stating that's a problem... 'the history of fertility care is based in a lot of heterosexuality.'" (00:45)
He argues that the article presents biological realities as injustices, undermining natural reproductive processes.
Example 2: Stonewall Veterans’ Perspectives
Referencing Michael Collins' article, Mohler characterizes USA Today's portrayal of Stonewall veterans as supportive propaganda for the LGBTQ movement, rather than objective reporting.
"The bar's patrons... fought back with the fists and fury of a people tired of being targeted and condemned for who they are." (01:10)
Example 3: Interview with Episcopal Bishop Marianne Edgar Buddy
Mohler critiques an interview with Bishop Marianne Edgar Buddy, highlighting her advocacy for LGBTQ rights without scriptural or traditional theological backing, portraying her stance as a departure from orthodox Christian teachings.
"She is sold out for the gay rights movement for Pride Month... she doesn't speak about scripture or the moral tradition of the church." (01:35)
Analysis of Moral Rebellion
The host contends that the LGBTQ movement represents a fundamental rebellion against creation order and biblical teachings. He emphasizes that despite cultural acceptance, biological and physiological realities remain unchanged, portraying the movement as an inevitable moral decline.
"It's a revolt against anatomy and physiology. It's a revolt against... being. Now, one of the basic realities of the Christian worldview is that you can rebel against reality, but at the end of the day, reality wins." (01:50)
Conclusion
Albert Mohler concludes by reflecting on the pervasive influence of LGBTQ activism and media portrayal, urging Christians to recognize and respond to what he views as a profound moral transformation. He underscores the importance of understanding these changes within the broader context of Christian theology and cultural integrity.
"That's how all this has happened." (02:10)
Notable Quotes:
-
Albert Mohler:
"June is often declared to be Pride Month, meaning LGBTQ Pride Month in the United States." (00:00)
"You can rebel against reality, but at the end of the day, reality wins." (01:50)
"That's how all this has happened." (02:10) -
USA Today Article by Adriana Rodriguez and David Oliver:
"The history of fertility care is based in a lot of heterosexuality." (00:45)
"The same tactics that they use for heterosexual people... are not appropriate for the LGBTQ folks or solo parents." (00:55) -
USA Today Article by Michael Collins:
"The bar's patrons... had enough. They fought back with the fists and fury of a people tired of being targeted and condemned for who they are." (01:10)
-
Reverend Marianne Edgar Buddy:
"I would love to actually have a real person to person conversation about the things that matter." (01:25)
"That's who we are. These are the values that we want to stand for, and that's who we are as a church." (01:30)
"There is always love and mercy and goodness at the heart of God." (01:40)
Final Remarks:
Mohler emphasizes the importance of Christians maintaining a critical perspective on societal shifts regarding LGBTQ issues. He calls for a return to traditional biblical values and warns against what he perceives as the erosion of moral and physiological truths by modern activism and media influence.
This summary encapsulates the key discussions and viewpoints presented by Albert Mohler in the June 17, 2025 episode of The Briefing. It aims to provide a comprehensive overview for those who have not listened to the episode.
