The 501c3 System w/ Zack Killey of Salty Saints Podcast
Podcast:Nephilim Death Squad Biblical Conspiracy Published On: Mon Jan 12 2026 Description: In this episode of Nephilim Death Squad, we’re joined by Zack Killey, pastor and host of the Salty Saints Podcast, to break down the 501(c)(3) church system, how it reshaped modern Christianity, and why the institutional church often looks nothing like the model Jesus established.We discuss how tax-exempt status, church growth metrics, and corporate-style leadership structures have shifted the focus away from the Great Commission and toward attendance, money, branding, and compliance. Zack explains why discipleship has been outsourced to pastors, how the church became a business model, and why many believers feel spiritually stalled despite constant “church activity.”This conversation goes deep into biblical authority, discipleship, spiritual warfare, and the difference between Christ’s original mission and modern religious systems. We also examine worship culture, repetition, psychology, and why real transformation happens through lived obedience—not performance.This is a necessary conversation for anyone questioning the modern church while still taking Jesus seriously.👉 Subscribe for weekly episodes👉 Support the show on Patreon for early access and exclusive content👤 Guest SocialsZack KilleyPodcast: Salty Saints PodcastWebsite: https://saltysaintspodcast.comPlatforms: Apple Podcasts, podcast platforms⚠️ Note: Search “Salty Saints Podcast” (not the Mormon apologetics channel)00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Banter01:14 Support Us on Patreon01:58 Guest Introduction: Zach04:29 Discussion on 501(c)(3) System04:45 The Great Commission and Church's Mission09:52 Challenges and Criticisms of Modern Church Practices32:01 Worship and Authenticity in Church40:25 Reflecting on Jesus' Original Church41:48 The Great Commission Discussion44:28 Personal Testimonies and Discipleship46:05 Challenges in Modern Church Systems48:25 The Role of Discipleship in Faith51:02 Critique of Church Practices52:29 The Importance of Personal Testimony58:56 Discipleship vs. Teaching01:18:14 The Impact of Modern Life on Faith01:21:47 Historical Shifts in Christianity01:23:59 The Pursuit of Knowledge01:24:12 The Enlightenment Period01:24:24 Debate Culture in the Church01:25:55 Institutionalization of the Church01:26:50 The Role of Constantine01:27:43 Rituals and Discomfort in Church01:31:44 The Importance of Systems01:41:55 The Body of Christ01:45:18 Challenges in Modern Church Leadership01:47:11 Biblical Context for Church Roles01:52:32 Living a Life of Faith01:56:24 Evangelism and Individualism01:58:28 Transforming Hearts Through the Gospel01:59:59 Lessons from Disobedience02:00:27 Understanding God's Role02:01:01 Challenges in Ministry02:02:41 Reforming the Church02:04:58 Balancing Ministry and Livelihood02:09:44 The Role of Wealth in Faith02:16:41 Practical Advice for Pastors02:17:20 The Importance of Community02:19:24 Navigating Modern Church Dynamics02:36:53 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nephilim-death-squad-biblical-conspiracy--6389018/support.☠️ Nephilim Death Squad — New episodes 5x/week.Join our Patreon for early access, bonus shows & the private Telegram hive.Subscribe on YouTube & Rumble, follow @NephilimDSquad on X/Instagram, grab merch at toplobsta.com. Questions/bookings: chroniclesnds@gmail.com — Stay dangerous.