The Jimmy Akin Podcast

The shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept," serves as a profound exploration of grief and hope. The discussion dives into Jesus' emotional response to Lazarus' death, revealing the complexities of sorrow and divine hope. It emphasizes the need for acknowledging our emotions and navigating through grief. The conversation also touches on misunderstandings among the disciples, highlighting the deep connection between human sorrow and the promise of resurrection.

The podcast dives into the heated debate about whether the Virgin Mary can hear prayers. It critiques a Protestant apologist's bold claim, emphasizing the need for reasoned theological discussion. Biblical evidence is explored, challenging the belief that saints are unaware of our prayers. The role of Mary and other saints as intercessors is examined, linking their heavenly awareness to scriptural references. The conversation encourages listeners to reconsider traditional beliefs about prayer and the divine connection we share.

Discover the fascinating role of angels as intercessors in both Jewish and Christian traditions. Historical texts reveal their significance in mediating between humanity and the divine. The discussion includes insights from the books of Tobit, Job, and Zechariah, showcasing the extensive biblical foundation for angelic prayer. Symbolism in Revelation illustrates how incense represents prayers ascending to God, bridging celestial and earthly connections. Uncover the rich traditions surrounding the intercession of angels and their impact on spiritual practices.

Delve into the unexpected truths of the Nativity narrative. Discover how common misconceptions about the 'inn' are debunked through a close look at the original Greek text. Learn about the living conditions in first-century Jewish homes and how overcrowding influenced the story of Mary and Joseph. The intriguing possibility of a grotto as the birthplace of Jesus adds depth to a tale often romanticized in art and tradition.

In this engaging discussion, guest Christian B. Wagner, a young Catholic convert and YouTube creator, challenges Jimmy Akin's views on Mary's sinlessness. They dive into the complexities of theological discourse, advocating for respectful dialogue amidst differing opinions. Wagner's critique sparks a deeper examination of infallibility in Church teachings and the nuances surrounding Mary's status. The pair explore the historical context of these beliefs, emphasizing clarity to avoid misconceptions among the faithful.

All four Gospels record the fact that Jesus cleared the temple in Jerusalem of buyers and sellers. Why did he do this? What’s more, when did he do this? Matthew, Mark, and Luke record him doing it at the end of his ministry, but John records him doing it at the beginning. In this episode, Jimmy Akin takes you through the biblical clues needed to understand this mysterious event!

The podcast dives into the intriguing topic of predestination versus free will. It contrasts Calvinist beliefs in divine sovereignty with Catholic teachings, sparking a lively debate. Key biblical texts are examined to uncover their interpretations on human choice and God's overarching plan. The discussion underscores the complexity of how divine authority interacts with individual agency, questioning the absoluteness of predestined fate. Ultimately, it suggests a nuanced understanding of salvation that allows for human decision-making.

Dive into the intriguing world of 'arguments from silence' and discover why they can be misleading. Explore key examples from history and scripture that illustrate the pitfalls of drawing conclusions from what isn't said. Understand the implications of these arguments in Protestant theology, especially concerning doctrines like sola scriptura. Analyze how silence in historical texts can affect interpretations of significant events. This discussion challenges you to rethink commonly held assumptions and seek overlooked evidence.

James White, a renowned Protestant debater, joins to dissect the Gish Gallop tactic, where debaters overwhelm opponents with trivial claims to sidestep critical issues. The conversation dives into ethical concerns surrounding this tactic, especially in debates on Sola Scriptura. Listeners learn how to navigate these discussions by focusing on substantial arguments and the role of apostolic tradition. Practical tips are offered for countering overwhelming claims, ensuring clarity amid confusion in theological debates.

What happens to our souls after we die? The discussion dives into whether our souls leave time behind to be with God. Philosophical contrasts between timelessness and endless time are explored, along with the contributions of thinkers like Boethius. Insights from Catholic theology suggest that multiple dimensions of time could exist in the afterlife. The relationship between time, souls, and prayer is examined, including the intriguing idea of future selves interacting through prayer in heaven.