Crossfires

Introduction Argument Side A- 2 Minutes
Introduction Argument Side B- 2 Minutes
First Point Side A- 3 Minutes
First Point Side B- 3 Minutes
Team Discussion- 3 Minutes
Rebuttal Side A- 2 Minutes
Rebuttal Side B- 2 Minutes
Second Point Side A- 3 Minutes
Second Point Side B- 3 Minutes
Team Discussion- 3 Minutes
Rebuttal Side A- 2 Minutes
Rebuttal Side B- 2 Minutes
Third Point Side A- 3 Minutes
Third Point Side B- 3 Minutes
Team Discussion- 2 Minutes
Closing Side A- 2 Minutes
Closing Side B- 2 Minutes

Moderator Closing Statements/Discussion

Rules

One speaker per segment. (John does introduction, Jill does point one, Mark does rebuttal one, etc…) Please note that not every person is required to speak, but everyone is encouraged to participate in Team Discussion AND note taking for the team.
You must disclose your “evidence” to the opposing side prior to introductory statements. Please have all evidence printed and ready PRIOR to Crossfires.
Even if you do not agree with your side, you must argue in its favor.
No devices during Crossfires- this will eliminate searching for more “evidence.”
No switching sides. Positions are randomly assigned.
Abide by the allotted time. When the moderator calls time, please return to your seat.
If you are not the designated speaker, please refrain from discussion during the debate. Please wait for the designated Team Discussion times.
If you would like to invite a staff pastor as an “expert” witness, please disclose this to your moderator and opposing team immediately.
Starting at Crossfires #2, you will be asked to add one Visalia First staff person to your team. This person will need to be approached by each team and included in discussion.
If you need to reserve the classroom for Crossfires prep, please connect with Regan or Josh.

Crossfires #1: Politics in the Church

Date: February 6, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Moderator: Pastor Chad Lashley

BONUS POINT CROSSFIRE (24 points)

Topic: What role should politics play in the church? Do biblical leaders engage in political discourse? Is it appropriate in today’s polarized culture to discuss political topics? If so, how?

Side A: Affirming of position- Politics should play a role in the church. Biblical leaders should engage in political discourse. It is appropriate to discuss political topics in the church.

Side B: Not affirming of position- Politics should not play a role in the church. Biblical leaders should not engage in political discourse. It is not appropriate to discuss political topics in church.

Side A Team:
Sadie Arredondo, Desi Brantley, Hannah Clark, Chloe Harville, Seamus Johnson, Christian Martinez, Caydence Martinez, Donovan Powers, David Robles, Jaden Shipley, Evelyn Swift, Chad Villanueva

Side B Team:
Joshua Barham, David Carreiro, Blake Edwards, Joseph Hopkinson, Gus Luna, Misty Martinez, Adrian Nunez, Maggie Plunkett, Juli Powell-Smith, Stephanie Ruvalcaba, Nissi Soto, Kendall Valenzuela, Jedidiah Ybarra

Crossfires #2: Women in Ministry

Date: March 27, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM
Moderator: Pastor Chad Lashley

Topic: Should women hold a position of leadership in the church? Should women be allowed to be pastors in the local church?

Side A: Affirming of position- Women should hold a position of leadership in the church. Women should be allowed to be pastors in the local church.

Side B: Not affirming of position- Women should not hold a position of leadership in the church. Women should not be allowed to pastor in the local church.

Side A Team:
Joshua Barham, David Carreiro, Blake Edwards, Joseph Hopkinson, Gus Luna, Adrian Nunez, Jedidiah Ybarra, Christian Martinez, Donovan Powers, David Robles, Chad Villanueva, Seamus Johnson, ONE Visalia First Staff Member

Side B Team:
Sadie Arredondo, Desi Brantley, Hannah Clark, Chloe Harville, Athena Garcia, Misty Martinez, Maggie Plunkett, Juli Powell-Smith, Stephanie Ruvalcaba, Nissi Soto, Kendall Valenzuela, Caydence Martinez, Jaden Shipley, Evelyn Swift, ONE Visalia First Staff Member