Introducing 'The Surprising Rebirth Of Belief In God' documentary series
Oct 21, 2023
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In this thought-provoking discussion, Jordan Peterson shares insights on the psychological significance of religion while Richard Dawkins critiques those beliefs from an evolutionary standpoint. Alex O'Connor advocates for the dialogue between faith and reason. Meanwhile, Tom Holland and Louise Perry examine how Christianity shapes modern culture. Douglas Murray and Dave Rubin engage in lively debates on free speech and contemporary issues. Scholars like Alister McGrath and NT Wright offer theological perspectives, questioning whether faith might see a revival in today's world.
The podcast reveals a shift from secularism to renewed interest in Christianity among public intellectuals and secular thinkers.
Personal stories of adult converts highlight faith's relevance today, countering the narrative of Christianity's decline and connecting with human desires.
Deep dives
The Shift from Religion to Secularism
The transition from a predominantly religious society to a secular one is illustrated by the historical influence of the Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution. In the 19th century, philosophical and scientific advancements proclaimed the end of superstition, paving the way for a society driven by reason and technology. Matthew Arnold's poem 'Dover Beach' highlights the receding tide of faith during this period, an observation that resonates with the contemporary decline of church attendance and religious affiliation. As a result, many perceive Christianity as facing a relentless decline into irrelevance in modern Western culture.
A Surprising Rebirth of Faith
Despite the apparent decline of religious belief, there are emerging signs of a renewed openness to faith, particularly among some secular thinkers and public intellectuals. This shift is characterized by a decrease in confrontational debates between militant atheists and Christians, replaced by more nuanced conversations about the cultural and moral values that Christianity embodies. Individuals such as journalists and authors, including Douglas Murray and Jordan Peterson, have unexpectedly found common ground with Christian narratives, suggesting that a significant reevaluation of faith is underway. These discussions prompt the consideration of whether society may be moving towards a more receptive attitude toward Christianity, countering the notion of its demise.
Personal Narratives of Conversion
The experiences of adult converts to Christianity underscore the idea that faith still holds relevance in modern life, challenging the narrative of Christianity's decline. Notable figures from various backgrounds, including academics and everyday individuals, share transformative stories about their journey towards belief after previously rejecting or overlooking Christianity. These narratives reveal a deep yearning for meaning and connection that the Christian story fulfills, suggesting that it resonates with fundamental human desires. In light of these personal accounts, there is an opportunity for the church to engage with a population that may be rediscovering faith, potentially reversing the trend of decline.
In this introductory trailer, Justin Brierley introduces a new long-form documentary podcast 'The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God', telling the story of why new atheism grew old and secular thinkers are considering Christianity again.
Featuring interviews with secular and Christian thinkers such as Jordan Peterson, Richard Dawkins, Alex O Connor, Louise Perry, Tom Holland, Dave Rubin, Douglas Murray, Alister McGrath, NT Wright, William Lane Craig, Jana Harmon, Bishop Robert Barron, Paul Kingsnorth and Francis Spufford, this series accompanies Justin's recently published book 'The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God'.
Could the tide of faith be ready to come in again in our generation?
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