The Alisa Childers Podcast

Dr. Doug Potter, a theology professor at Southern Evangelical Seminary, dives into the crucial role of prolegomena in understanding Scripture. He explains how two people can read the same biblical verses yet arrive at opposing beliefs. Potter emphasizes that our foundational views shape our theology. The conversation also touches on the necessity of a philosophical basis for faith, the distinction between dichotomy and trichotomy in human nature, and the importance of context in biblical interpretation. It’s a deep exploration into why perspectives on truth vary so widely among Christians.

Dr. Mel Winstead, a New Testament scholar and pastor, dives deep into the reliability of the New Testament. He discusses fascinating archaeological discoveries that support its authenticity and examines the dating of the Gospels, countering modern skepticism. Winstead also reflects on pastoring in a rural community and the big questions his students grapple with. Additionally, he highlights the connection between the Old and New Covenants, emphasizing their significance and the historical accuracy of scripture through evidence.

Delve into the controversy surrounding Chip and Joanna Gaines and how it impacts Christian values. Explore the backlash from their supporters and the tension between love and truth in faith. Discover the importance of instilling a solid biblical foundation in children to face societal challenges. Learn about the journey of celebrities converting to Christianity and the need for authentic beliefs. Finally, emphasize the pivotal role of Scripture in discerning truth amidst distractions.

In this discussion, Alexa Cramer, an apologist and contributor to Mama Bear Apologetics, dives into the controversial teachings of Richard Rohr, a Franciscan Friar influential in progressive Christianity. They unpack Rohr's concepts of panentheism and the Universal Christ, critiquing their alignment with historic Christianity. Cramer also challenges modern interpretations of sin and salvation, advocating for discernment in faith. With flair, she compares Jesus’s divinity to unique personal anecdotes, sparking fresh perspectives on spirituality.

Dr. Kathy Koch, founder of Celebrate Kids and bestselling author, shares her insights on nurturing children's strengths and understanding their unique personalities. She explores how our gifts can be used for good or evil, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individual talents. The conversation touches on the impact of original sin on identity, the significance of engaging with different learning styles, and the dual effect of technology on creativity. Kathy highlights the value of instilling biblical truths in children's lives amidst societal challenges.

Dr. Robert Gagnon, a leading theologian specializing in biblical studies, takes a deep dive into Jesus' teachings on homosexuality. He challenges the claim that Jesus was silent on the subject, emphasizing the traditional interpretation of biblical marriage and sexuality. Gagnon discusses the historical context of the term 'homosexual' in English Bibles and critiques contemporary views. He argues for a male-female binary in sexual ethics, highlighting the importance of adhering to biblical principles amidst societal changes.

Dawn Hill, a former prophet from the New Apostolic Reformation, now heads the Lovesick Scribe ministry, assisting women in breaking free from misleading teachings. In their conversation, she dives into her transformative journey from false prophecy to clarity, sharing insights on the spiritual risks of deliverance ministry and the importance of grounding practices in Scripture. Dawn also emphasizes the need for biblical discernment, especially for nurturing children, and offers support resources for those questioning their faith within the NAR, fostering a sense of community in the healing process.

Bob DeWaay, a former deliverance minister, brings his in-depth research on contemplative spirituality to the discussion. He examines figures like Richard Foster and discusses practices like spiritual direction and contemplative prayer in light of scripture. DeWaay highlights the potential dangers of misinterpreting spiritual practices and emphasizes the importance of discernment in teachings. He challenges the validity of deliverance ministry, advocating instead for a focused relationship with God and traditional prayer over supernatural claims.

Dave Stovall, a worship pastor and former member of Audio Adrenaline, shares his fascinating journey from rock bands to worship leadership. He discusses the challenges of modern worship music, highlighting the tension between personal emotion and theological depth. Stovall emphasizes the importance of worship lyrics that honor God rather than simply evoke feelings. He also reflects on the evolving Christian music industry and the impact of digital distribution on worship experiences, encouraging a return to authentic and meaningful worship.

Historian Adam Claasen, a New Zealand expert in 20th-century history, dives into the fascinating world of Gnostic gospels. He explores the reasons why only Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John made it into the Bible, shedding light on the historical contexts that differentiate canonical texts from Gnostic alternatives. Claasen critiques popular misconceptions, like those propagated by 'The Da Vinci Code', emphasizing the importance of eyewitness accounts and historical reliability in understanding Jesus. Prepare for a thought-provoking journey through early Christian history!