The Alisa Childers Podcast

Allie Beth Stuckey, author of "Toxic Empathy," dives into how progressive Christianity distorts authentic compassion regarding race, sexuality, and social justice. She critiques the concept of 'toxic empathy' and its influence post-2020, warning against the tension between kindness and truth. Stuckey also addresses misleading labels thrown at her views and stresses the need for clear guidance from church leaders amidst political pressures. The conversation emphasizes balancing compassion with biblical convictions on pressing societal issues.

The discussion dives into the role of spiritual direction and contemplative prayer, questioning their biblical foundations. It highlights the differences between traditional and progressive Christianity, emphasizing the absence of key themes like sin. Listeners learn about the distinctions between biblical meditation practices and New Age traditions. The conversation also touches on the complexities of discerning spiritual guidance and evaluating influential figures in modern Christianity, encouraging open communication with church leaders.

Kyle Mann, head writer and co-founder of The Babylon Bee, and Joel Berry, writer for the satirical site, discuss the power of humor in confronting societal lies. They share their experiences with censorship and the challenges of maintaining comedic freedom in a politically charged environment. Favorite satirical headlines spark laughs, while the duo reflects on how satire can provoke deeper theological discussions. They also touch on their aspirations for expanding their satirical influence into movies and books, promoting hope and truth in a divided culture.

Greg Stier, leader of Dare to Share Ministries, empowers youth to share the gospel effectively. He discusses practical challenges to embody Jesus' teachings, emphasizing the importance of prayer, evangelism, and being filled with the Spirit. A powerful story illustrates how he diffused a tense situation with a drunk passenger by applying these principles. The conversation highlights integrating faith into everyday life, emphasizing compassion and action, proving that genuine kindness can open doors for sharing hope.

Katy Faust, founder of Them Before Us, is a passionate advocate for children's rights in family dynamics. In a thought-provoking discussion, she unpacks the ethical implications of IVF and surrogacy, urging a child-first approach that prioritizes their welfare over adult desires. Katy delves into the moral complexities surrounding frozen embryos and the financial and emotional challenges of IVF. Listeners are encouraged to engage in thoughtful dialogue on these issues, reflecting on how Christian values can shape ethical decisions in reproduction.

Engaging with questions from followers, the discussion dives into the Trinity and its biblical basis despite not being explicitly named in Scripture. The speakers tackle how to discern God's voice amidst modern challenges in faith and ministry. Balancing the demands of family life with a busy ministry is explored, emphasizing support from loved ones. Listeners are encouraged to maintain a healthy equilibrium between personal interests and responsibilities, highlighting the unpredictability of life and the importance of prayer in their journey.

In this discussion, Jonathan Morrow, an expert on parenting in the digital age, shares vital insights for parents navigating their children's social media usage. He emphasizes the need for introspection before granting access, highlighting critical questions about motivation and safety. Morrow shares personal anecdotes from parents grappling with screen addiction and the impact on childhood development. He offers practical strategies to promote responsible behavior, resilience, and emotional well-being in kids growing up in a tech-saturated world.

Dr. Paul Copan, a theology expert, joins to explore the intriguing overlap between progressive Christianity and the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). He critiques progressive Christianity’s dilution of biblical authority and contrasts it with NAR's focus on the miraculous and prosperity. The discussion unpacks how both movements interpret Scripture through potentially flawed lenses, emphasizing the need for a Christ-centered approach. They also delve into the complexities of God's nature, including mercy and justice, while calling for a return to traditional biblical teachings.

This discussion dives into the deep divides of complementarianism versus egalitarianism in Christian circles. It scrutinizes whether women should hold pastor roles and the implications of their teaching gifts. The complexities of gender roles in church and family are laid bare, exploring scriptural interpretations and the debate on women's leadership. Challenges faced by young women aspiring to teach are also addressed, focusing on personal growth and aligning with church beliefs while valuing their contributions.

Bec Andrew, a brave advocate for faith in the midst of adversity, shares her journey of living with debilitating illness and chronic pain. She opens up about how her struggles shaped her theological beliefs and led her to a deeper understanding of Scripture. The conversation touches on the theology of suffering, the importance of community support, and the transformative power of prayer. Bec encourages listeners to find purpose in their pain and maintain hope, revealing the profound insights gained from her faith journey.