Darkness Didn't Win: A Father's Faith Through Excruciating Pain with Dr. Clark Bates

In this episode of True Comfort, Teasi talks with Dr. Clark Bates who discusses his journey into studying textual criticism and then opens his heart to share a very tender and excruciating season in which he and his wife walked their daughter through extreme depression which led to self-harm and suicidal thoughts. There is truly no greater pain than the pain parents feel for their children—especially when we feel powerless to help them. But Clark and his wife clung tightly to their faith in God and His love for their family even when things made no sense and the pain was beyond compare.  

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to True Comfort and Guest Introduction

02:51 Understanding Textual Criticism

06:02 The Journey into Textual Criticism

09:05 The Importance of Manuscripts

11:54 The Reliability of the New Testament

15:04 Personal Struggles and Family Challenges

18:01 Navigating Difficult Times as a Family

20:55 Finding Hope and Healing

23:38 The Role of Faith in Crisis

26:34 The Impact of Community and Support

29:09 The Journey of a Daughter's Recovery

31:52 The Importance of Scripture in Difficult Times

34:41 Final Thoughts on Faith and Trust

37:23 Encouragement for Those Struggling

40:21 Conclusion and Resources

To learn more about Clark Bates visit https://facebook.com/clark.bates.9 and to support his family in their missions visit

https://give.missionquest.org/missionary/250

To learn more about Teasi Cannon or to invite her to speak check out www.teasicannon.com

To get started on your own study of apologetics check out these recommended resources: General Apologetics — Teasi Cannon

For an incredible 50% off deal on 200 educational slides from the late Norman Geisler (a tremendous way to get started learning philosophy, theology, and apologetics): go to https://ngim.org/store/ and use promo code NorMTeasi25

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988)