Dr. Sarah Irving-Stonebraker, a historian who transitioned from atheism to Christianity, shares her unique insights on faith and history. She discusses the intellectual struggles that shaped her conversion and the importance of historical awareness in today's ahistoric world. Her book 'Priests of History' highlights how integrating faith into historical narratives can provide deeper meaning. Plus, she critiques the phrase 'wrong side of history,' urging for a richer understanding of past complexities. Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of marrying faith with historical context.
Dr. Sarah Irving-Stonebraker’s conversion from atheism to Christianity highlights the profound impact of historical narratives on faith and identity.
The podcast underscores the importance of engaging with history to counter modern individualism and foster a sense of communal purpose.
Deep dives
The Impact of Spurgeon's Preaching
Charles Spurgeon's unique ability as a preacher distinguished him in the realm of sermons. His works emphasize the profound relevance of his messages, illustrating the significance of the gospel in a weary world. Dr. Jason K. Allen's new compilations of Spurgeon's sermons focus on essential Christian themes, such as preaching and the Great Commission. These collections serve as an enduring reminder of the power of biblical messages to inspire and unite believers across generations.
Cultural Disconnect and the A-Historic Age
The podcast addresses the disconnect in modern society with regards to history, highlighting how contemporary culture often disregards the wisdom of the past. Sarah Irving Stonebreaker discusses her book, which examines five major characteristics of our current a-historic age. These characteristics include viewing history solely as a source of shame, losing connection to historical communities, and the increasing ignorance of historical narratives. This cultural shift fosters a rootlessness that undermines our understanding of identity and purpose.
From Atheism to Christianity: A Personal Journey
Sarah Irving Stonebreaker shares her transformative journey from atheism to Christianity, which began during her academic pursuits in history. Through her studies of renowned scientists, she observed a common thread of faith intertwined with their intellectual contributions, challenging her preconceived notions about religion. Encountering influential lectures and literature, coupled with personal reflection, ultimately led her to recognize the emptiness of a life centered on self-fulfillment. This intellectual and spiritual awakening has shaped her mission to integrate her faith into her role as a historian.
History as a Guiding Narrative
The discussion emphasizes the importance of viewing history as a guiding narrative for understanding both personal and communal identities. Engaging with the past provides insights into the shared experiences of humanity, enabling individuals to understand their place within a larger story. The podcast argues that learning from history is essential for grounding oneself in a collective existence, countering the pervasive individualism of modern culture. By integrating historical wisdom into contemporary practices, believers can enrich their spiritual lives and foster a deeper connection with their faith.
In this episode of Gospelbound, Collin Hansen interviews Dr. Sarah Irving-Stonebraker about her journey from atheism to Christianity and how it shapes her work as a historian.
They discuss:
Historical figures and intellectual challenges that influenced her conversion
The integration of faith into her academic work
The challenges of teaching history in a secular context
The role of historical narratives in finding meaning and purpose