In this engaging conversation, Mike Winger, a thoughtful speaker on Christianity, and Preston Sprinkle, a theologian with unique insights into LGBTQ+ issues, tackle tough questions about faith. They discuss challenges posed by atheists about biblical contradictions, and delve into the complexities of same-sex attraction, examining the 'side B' perspective. The duo also explores family planning within church teachings, questions surrounding moral decline in society, and offers insights on trust in God amidst fears. Their balanced perspectives encourage nuanced discussions in Christian contexts.
The podcast addresses challenges from atheists regarding fundamental beliefs of Christianity, particularly questioning the necessity of Jesus's sacrifice for salvation.
Discussions about the interpretations of scripture highlight the importance of distinguishing between Jesus's teachings and Paul's practical advice on contemporary Christian issues.
Listeners are encouraged to reflect on authentic faith, emphasizing that genuine belief should naturally lead to good works, rather than a reliance on actions for salvation.
Parents are reminded to trust in God amidst fears regarding their children's safety, fostering emotional resilience by relying on scripture and divine providence.
Deep dives
The Atheist Challenge
The episode introduces an atheist perspective that challenges the fundamentals of Christianity, particularly questioning the necessity of Jesus's sacrifice for salvation. The speaker highlights that one core belief universal among denominations is being examined, suggesting that if this belief is undermined, the entire framework of Christianity could be impacted. This challenge is addressed within the context of an online video, indicating how this discussion invokes critical thinking about faith, doctrine, and the foundational beliefs held by Christians. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being open to questioning such pivotal issues, illustrating the high stakes involved when it comes to fundamental tenets of faith.
Jesus's Role in Forgiveness
A central point of the podcast revolves around the claim that Jesus's death is essential for forgiveness, a belief that Christianity holds dearly. The discussion reveals that if it can be established that forgiveness can occur without Jesus's sacrifice, it would significantly undermine perceived Christian doctrine. The speaker notes that even among those who do not adhere to penal substitutionary atonement, the idea that Jesus's death is necessary persists in various forms. Therefore, the implications of this belief are critically important in evaluating the essence of Christianity and the authenticity of one's faith.
Critiquing Jesus's Teachings
The podcast addresses a challenge to the exclusivity of Jesus as the only way to salvation, referencing stories from the Gospels that appear to suggest otherwise. The speaker points out a specific account involving a paralyzed man, where Jesus forgives sins before his crucifixion, implying that forgiveness might not solely hinge on Jesus's sacrificial death. This analysis raises complex theological questions about the nature of faith and the qualifications for receiving forgiveness. The speaker argues that without carefully interpreting these passages, one risks misunderstanding the full scope of Christian teachings.
The Importance of Faith
Through the example of believers and their understanding of faith, the podcast emphasizes the role of genuine faith as a precursor to good works in the life of a Christian. It discusses the distinction between relying on works for salvation and having works as evidence of faith, suggesting that true faith naturally produces good deeds. This differentiation is essential to understanding one's relationship with Jesus and the expectations of living a Christian life. The speaker encourages listeners to reflect on whether their faith is genuine and how it materializes in their actions towards others.
Addressing Divorce and Remarriage
The discussion on marriage dives into Paul’s teachings on divorce, underscoring that the Apostle provides guidance beyond what was mentioned by Jesus in the Gospels. The notion of saying 'I, not the Lord' indicates Paul is providing practical advice based on the complexities of the believer's life rather than a direct command from Christ. This highlights the significance of the Apostle’s authority in interpreting Jesus's principles in light of contemporary Christian experiences. The speaker further rationalizes that while Jesus offered foundational teachings, the evolving nature of relationships compels additional counsel from Paul.
Navigating Fear and Trust in God
Amidst concerns over safety and well-being, the podcast stresses the importance of relinquishing fears by placing trust in God. The speaker emphasizes that while parents worry about their children’s safety, such anxiety should not dictate their experience or lead to a fearful outlook on life. Through the lens of scripture, especially the teachings of Jesus, the message conveys confidence in God's providence and the assurance that no amount of worrying can alter circumstances. Encouraging listeners to adopt a mindset of trust helps cultivate emotional resilience and allows one to embrace life more fully.
Understanding Scripture's Authority
The episode examines the complex nature of scripture, particularly regarding authorship and divine inspiration, as seen in Paul's writings. By juxtaposing his own counsel with the words of Jesus, Paul establishes the broader context of Christian teachings, reflecting the authority of the Apostolic tradition. This distinction between what is explicitly stated by Jesus versus additional insights from Paul indicates the dynamism of scriptural interpretation. Consequently, the conversation invites the audience to consider the interplay between divine inspiration and the guidance provided by apostolic leaders in understanding Christian faith.
1. 0:54 {Taking On an Atheist’s Challenge} Can you please respond to Holy Koolaid’s video alleging various Bible contradictions and problems with Christianity? Did Jesus Himself undermine Christianity? 2. 30:34 {Preston Sprinkle & “Side B” Christianity} What's your take on Preston Sprinkle? Some Christians like him, but others call him a heretic or "side B Christian.” The issue seems to be about him not thinking same-sex attraction is a sin when not meditated/acted on. 3. 38:08 {Is Family Planning Sinful?} My church teaches that a couple must continuously have as many children as they're able, and it's seen as selfish and a sin resulting in church discipline if they use any form of family planning to stop. Many have 12-18 children as a result. Leadership says God wouldn't give more children than a couple can handle. Is this biblical? We already have 5 children. 4. 47:49 {The Pinnacle of Wickedness} Mike, are we there yet? The Bible says it will be as in the days of Noah in the last days. Have we arrived at the pinnacle of wickedness yet? 5. 53:41 {Can we still Glean from Reckless Charismatism?} I learned that Bethel's prophecy teachings and those of Storms, Wimber, Deere, Randolph, etc. trace back to scandalous Kansas City prophets. Should all be ignored, or can the chaff be separated? 6. 1:04:11 {Trusting God with Deep Fears} I’m a mom of three young children. I struggle with a lot of fear over their safety. How can I give this to God, knowing that it doesn’t mean something bad won’t still happen? 7. 1:11:44 {Healing = the Children’s Bread?} "Healing is the children's bread" is taught by a pastor friend when he prays for the sick. He uses Mark 7:24-30 as the proof text. What is the “bread” in v. 27? 8. 1:18:05 {Household Responsibilities in Marriage} Does God care who does the dishes and cooks the food? Is the wife called to manage the household? What if both the husband and wife work similar full-time jobs (Proverbs 31:15,21,27; Titus 2:5)? 9. 1:26:13 {Questioning Salvation = Not Saved?} I asked the youth how confident they are of salvation on a 1-10 scale. One replied with a ”7” citing that they still sin and don’t read their Bible often. Can one be saved if they associate salvation with works like Bible reading? Are the warnings in Galatians fitting here? 10. 1:33:31 {Are All of Paul’s Writings Inspired?} What should we make of Paul saying "I, not the Lord" as if he's just giving his own opinion, while also believing that all Scripture (which includes that statement) is Holy Spirit inspired (1 Corinthians 7)?
LINKS and cool stuff:
Original video from Holy Koolaid on how to undermine all of Christianity with one verse: Click Here
My series of videos defending the VERY important doctrine of Penal Substitutionary Atonement: Click Here
The Clear Truth Media website that just launched. Here's my first article, on Andy Stanley: Click Here
Can the guy stay home while the woman works? Click Here
The MASSIVE series on Women in Ministry. All the debates, especially all the egalitarian claims examined in detail: Click Here
Divorce and remarriage - Everything the Bible teaches about it: Click Here
Showing that Jesus made a big deal about ensuring that people understood he HAD to die for our sins. Careful, verse-by-verse study like this is what keeps people from being able to twist the Scriptures and trick you: Click Here
To participate in a future Q&A session, show up when the livestream starts (you see me actually on screen) and post your question in the chat. It helps if you reference one or two specific verses if they are relevant to your question and if you put a Q at the beginning of your comment in the live chat.
I’m Mike Winger and my goal is to help people think biblically about everything. My website: BibleThinker.org
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