How Can You Say God Is Pro-Life if He Kills Babies?
Nov 27, 2024
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Robby Lashua, the former Outposts Director at Stand to Reason and soon-to-be lead pastor, joins the discussion with insights on gratitude and the significance of saying 'thank you.' The conversation takes a thought-provoking turn as they tackle the controversial question of how God can be viewed as pro-life while also enacting violence in biblical narratives. Lashua shares reflections on leadership transitions and the value of community in faith, all while emphasizing the importance of deeper understanding and interpretation.
The podcast discusses the importance of expressing gratitude toward others and recognizing divine blessings in our lives.
A key debate revolves around the pro-life stance of Christians in light of theological questions regarding God's actions in scripture.
Deep dives
The Growth and Purpose of Outposts
The Outposts are local chapter groups that partner with churches worldwide to teach apologetics using specific curriculum. These groups encourage discipleship within local congregations, providing training for laypeople to engage with broader discussions about their faith. Currently, there are 151 Outposts that operate with flexibility—some function as Sunday school classes, while others may host monthly apologetics nights or integrate into private Christian schools and homeschool programs. The initiative has shown positive impacts, as many participants report increased enthusiasm and understanding of apologetics within their communities.
Mobilizing Apologetics Training
A significant development of the Outposts has been the introduction of practical engagement opportunities to apply what members learn in training. This includes partnering with organizations that work on university campuses to help groups practice their skills in real-world scenarios. Resources have also been developed to help members invite individuals from different belief systems, like Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses, to their homes for discussion. Additionally, tools like worldview surveys allow participants to initiate conversations on important topics in public settings.
A Shift in Leadership and Vision
Robbie Lashua, the Outposts Director, announced his upcoming departure to take a position as a lead pastor in a local church. His transition comes after prayer and contemplation regarding his gifts and passion for shepherding, which he feels are best utilized within a community setting. Over the past two years at Stand to Reason, Lashua has significantly contributed to the growth and effectiveness of the Outposts, illustrating the critical role of local churches in nurturing apologetics training. The organization is now in the process of finding a suitable replacement to continue building upon the momentum established during his tenure.
Reflecting on Gratitude and Apologetics
The discussion transitions to the significance of gratitude, particularly in the context of Thanksgiving, emphasizing the need for expressing thanks to others as a fundamental principle of humility. The host reflects on personal gratitude, highlighting the importance of acknowledging those around us and the divine source of blessings in life. The conversation also emphasizes the value of gratitude as it relates not only to interpersonal relationships but to a broader understanding of providence and the role of God in our lives. By recognizing that gratitude necessitates an object, individuals are encouraged to deepen their appreciation for both human relationships and their faith.
Greg talks to Robby Lashua about an announcement and discusses the value of saying “thank you” to everyone who does something for you, then he responds to a caller’s question about how God can be pro-life if he kills babies.
Topics:
Interview: An announcement from Robby Lashua (00:00)
Commentary: Say “thank you” to everyone who does something for you. (27:00)
Are Christians pro-life, and do they believe God is pro-life even though he kills babies? (46:00)