What is truth? Mack Stiles and Dan Barker with host Andy Kind
Feb 2, 2024
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Two individuals with contrasting views on Christianity, the existence of God, and truth engage in a captivating debate. Mack Stiles, pastor and author of 'The Truth About Lies: Why Jesus is More Relevant Than You Think,' and atheist Dan Barker share their perspectives on truth, science, morality, God's nature, and the human condition. They discuss topics such as the existence of Adam and Eve, personal journeys to belief, differing views on Christianity's connection to truth and ethics, the definition of truth, Jesus as the truth, and living in alignment with truth and right.
Truth is the degree to which a statement corresponds to reality and must have a reference to reality that can be checked.
Morality is based on minimizing harm in the real world and acting with the intention of reducing harm as much as possible.
Jesus is the truth and the way to God, setting the definition of truth and emphasizing the importance of a personal relationship with God through Jesus.
Deep dives
Defining Truth
Dan Barker believes that truth is the degree to which a statement corresponds to reality. He argues that truth can only be applied to a statement or proposition, and it must have at least one reference to reality that can be checked. He disagrees with the idea that Jesus is the truth, stating that truth cannot be a person and that Jesus made false statements at times.
Morality and the Bible
Dan Barker contends that morality is based on minimizing harm in the real world, acting with the intention of reducing harm as much as possible. He criticizes the Bible's teachings, arguing that the Bible is often immoral and fails to provide a reliable moral guide. He highlights instances where Jesus' teachings do not align with modern moral standards, such as advocating giving more than a judgment after losing a lawsuit.
Jesus as the Truth
Mac Stiles asserts that Jesus is the truth and the way to God. He argues that Jesus sets the definition of truth and believes that God is the source of truth. Mac views Jesus as the embodiment of truth and emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with God through Jesus to reach the Father. He rejects the idea that Jesus' teachings are incompatible with morality and argues that following Jesus leads to the fulfillment of justice.
The Gospel of God and the Need for Salvation
The podcast discusses the central message of Christianity, which is the gospel of God's salvation. It emphasizes that through faith in Jesus Christ, people can be saved from the brokenness and pain of the world. The speaker argues that all cultures are broken, sinful, and in need of redemption, and that Christianity offers a unique solution through faith in Christ. The importance of understanding and accepting the gospel message is highlighted, as it is seen as the way to a new heart and eternal life.
Different Perspectives on Truth and Morality
The podcast explores the contrasting perspectives between the Christian and atheist guests regarding truth and morality. The Christian guest advocates for the truth of Christianity, highlighting the consistency of the message over time and the evidence supporting it. On the other hand, the atheist guest argues that personal experiences and reasoning should guide one's beliefs, emphasizing the moral qualities and compassion found in non-religious individuals. Differences in views on sin, justice, and the reliability of the Bible are discussed, with both guests recognizing the impact of faith and personal convictions in shaping their worldviews.
Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Premier Unbelievable! This week, brace yourselves for a captivating dialogue between two individuals with starkly divergent perspectives on Christianity, the existence of God, and the very essence of truth.
On one side we have Mack Stiles — director of Messenger Ministries Inc, Podcaster and seasoned pastor and author of the intriguing new book, "The Truth About Lies: Why Jesus is More Relevant Than You Think." Sharing the virtual stage and returning to Unbelievable is the outspoken atheist, Dan Barker, who was a Christian pastor for many years before making headlines by announcing on Oprah Winfrey's show that he had "kicked the religion habit". Dan later co-founded the Freedom from Religion Foundation.
Join our host, Andy Kind, as he navigates this riveting debate, delving into the profound questions surrounding truth, science, morality, the nature of God, and the complexities of the human condition.
For Mack Stiles: follow Mack on X @MackStiles
Mission Talks Podcas: https://www.9marks.org/tag/missions-talk/
Messenger Ministries: https://www.messengerministries.com/about
For Dan Barker: follow Dan on X @danbarker
Freedom from Religion: https://ffrf.org/about/staff-board/item/38960-dan-barker
Related shows
For Dan Barker and Martin Kuhrt discussing whether the God of the Bible is a capriciously malevolent, misogynistic, sadomasochistic bully: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/unbelievable/unbelievable-is-the-god-of-the-bible-a-capriciously-malevolent-misogynistic-sadomasochistic-bully-dan-barker-vs-martin-kuhrt/11653.article
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