The Sound Doctrine Podcast

A.J. Tomlinson: The Last Lost Interview (1943)

Step back in time and hear the powerful voice of Bishop A.J. Tomlinson in this rare and historic interview, recorded just weeks before his death and shortly before his 78th birthday. In this moving reflection, Tomlinson shares vivid memories of June 13, 1903—his pivotal visit to Burger Mountain (now Fields of the Wood)—where he experienced a spiritual transformation that sparked a global movement.
Originally visiting to distribute religious literature for the American Bible Society, Tomlinson had no idea he was stepping into a divine calling that would lead to the founding of the Church of God. He speaks candidly about his early motivations, the presence of God in small gatherings, and his lifelong vision to “girdle the globe with salvation and holiness unto the Lord.”
Drawing from Hebrews 1, Tomlinson also offers one of his final public exhortations, pointing listeners to the work of the Father and the Son in these “last days.” This interview captures the humility, conviction, and prophetic insight of a man whose legacy continues to shape Pentecostal and Holiness movements around the world.

Billy Murray: Be Ye Reconciled (1983)

“Be ye reconciled to God.” This was the passionate cry of Bishop Billy D. Murray at the 78th General Assembly in 1983—a message not just for that night, but for the Church today. In this week’s episode of the Sound Doctrine Podcast, we revisit this stirring sermon, where Bishop Murray reminds us that true Christian unity is not found in systems or structures—but in Christ alone. He calls us to draw nearer, not to each other first, but to Him. For the closer we move toward Jesus, the closer we’ll be to one another.

Jose M. Rivera: Biblical Stability with Biblical Restoration (1990)

This week, journey back to the 1990 International Assembly as Bishop José M. Rivera delivers a convicting message titled “Biblical Stability with Biblical Restoration.” With boldness and humility, Bishop Rivera calls the Church to a Spirit-led restoration not just of doctrine, but of attitude, unity, and reverence for God. His timeless message urges us to return to the simplicity of the gospel and to let true repentance lead to real change.
 
“Church restoration does not come by changing the Book, but by reading the Book.”

Sam Clements: The Issue of the Heart (1985)

This week, we revisit the 1985 International Assembly to hear a powerful message from former General Overseer Sam N. Clements, titled “The Issue of the Heart.” At the time, Bishop Clements was pastor to then General Overseer M.A. Tomlinson, at the Peerless Road COGOP in Cleveland, Tennessee. 
Preaching from Hebrews 3 and 2 Corinthians 5, Brother Clements drew a vivid comparison between physical open-heart surgery and the spiritual need for a new heart. He warned that miracles alone don’t change people—only transformed hearts do. Even Israel, fed daily by God’s hand, turned to unbelief and idolatry.
With bold clarity, he called for a revival not of programs or appearances, but of the heart. “Impure hearts, even with right doctrine, will fail,” he warned. Clements urged the Church to stop its carnal pursuits and return to God with sincerity, humility, and love.

Elva Howard: Time? New Testament O'Clock (1981)

What time is it? According to Sister Elva Howard, it’s New Testament O’Clock—a call to live as bold, Spirit-filled witnesses like the early Church. Recorded at the 76th World-Wide Annual Assembly, this unforgettable message challenges believers to be doers of the Word, to pursue internal transformation, and to walk in the power and presence of the Holy Spirit.

Tedroy Powell: Blessed Are the Power In Spirit (2000)

Step back to the 2000 International Assembly as Bishop Tedroy Powell opens the gathering with a stirring message rooted in Matthew 5:3—"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
With passionate conviction and prophetic insight, Bishop Powell reveals how brokenness, humility, and total dependence on God are the true currency of the Kingdom. This is more than a sermon—it’s a call to spiritual awakening.

David Bryan: The Spirit of the Lord is Upon Me (2012)

With prophetic passion, Bishop Bryan declares the unstoppable move of God’s Kingdom—even in the face of resistance, persecution, and spiritual conflict. This is a word for anyone who needs to experience renewed courage, Holy Spirit boldness, and a fresh Pentecostal fire.

Ruby Jones: Pursuing the Promise (2006)

Travel back with us to the 2006 Northeast Regional Ladies Retreat in New Jersey, where Ruby Jones-Carty delivered a timeless message on knowing God deeply and leading with vision and courage. Using the example of Deborah, Ruby challenges us to walk boldly in faith, listen for God's voice, and live with unwavering integrity—even when it’s not easy.

Cathy Payne: The Faith of Promise (2006)

This week, Sound Doctrine continues celebrating powerful female ministers in the Church of God of Prophecy. Join us for an extended interview with Dr. Cathy Payne as she reflects on 40 years of the Ladies Retreat Ministry in the Church of God of Prophecy—a ministry that touched thousands of lives across generations. But that’s not all...
Also in this episode, hear Dr. Payne’s stirring sermon from the 2006 Ladies Retreat, titled “The Faith of Promise.” In this message, she explores the remarkable faith of Rahab in Joshua 2. Rahab was a woman with a questionable past who trusted in God’s promises, acted in obedience, and was grafted into His plan of redemption.

Palma Hutchinson: The Song of the Lord (2012)

Have you ever struggled to truly embrace God's love and joy? This week, journey back to the 2012 Lake Barkley Ladies Retreat with a powerful sermon from Palma Hutchinson, based on Zephaniah 3:14-17. This message reminds us that God delights in us, sings over us, and calls us to rejoice in His unwavering love!
 
Tune in as Palma encourages us to sing and celebrate God’s love and victory, keep our hands lifted in praise, not discouragement, and move beyond knowing God’s joy to truly experience it! Listen now and be uplifted!

Donna Howard: Pursuing the Promise (2006)

Donna Howard preaches "Pursuing the Promise" at the 2006 Pacific Southwest Regional Ladies Retreat.

Sylvia Staten: Sing, Baby, Sing (2012)

This week on Sound Doctrine, we launch a powerful five-week series honoring International Women’s Month, featuring dynamic female ministers from the Church of God of Prophecy.
Kicking off the series is Pastor Sylvia Staten, delivering her unforgettable sermon "Sing, Baby, Sing" from the 2012 Southeast Regional Ladies Retreat. In this message, Pastor Staten challenges us to praise God through every trial, declaring His faithfulness even when the breakthrough hasn’t arrived yet!
Also, in this episode, cohost Dr. Shaun McKinley sits down with Dr. Cathy Payne, Global Mission Coordinator, to discuss the impact of women in ministry and the significance of Global Missions Month.