

Ideas Have Consequences
Disciple Nations Alliance
Worldviews shape communities, influence politics, steer economics, set social norms, and ultimately affect the well-being of both your life and your nation. Obedience to the Great Commission involves replacing false ideas with biblical truth. Together with the help of friends, our mission is to demonstrate that only biblical truth leads to flourishing lives, families, societies, and nations. This show explores the intersection of faith and culture, aiming to address pressing societal issues through a biblical lens. Ideas Have Consequences is the podcast of the Disciple Nations Alliance.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 12min
What is an Abortion Abolitionist? | Bradley Pierce
Could the pro-life movement be missing the mark in its fight against abortion? Join us as Bradley Pierce, a constitutional attorney and president of the Foundation to Abolish Abortion, challenges conventional thinking with his abolitionist perspective. With deep conviction and significant legal experience—including his role in the landmark Dobbs v. Jackson case that overturned Roe v. Wade—Bradley shares his mission for the total abolition of abortion in the United States. He questions the effectiveness of traditional pro-life strategies and advocates for legal reforms that more closely align with biblical principles.We examine the state of abortion law in America post-Dobbs, where rising access to abortion pills online complicates enforcement efforts. This episode also tackles the controversial issue of equal protection in abortion laws, a divisive topic even within the pro-life movement. We explore its legal and moral implications, urging Christians to always apply a consistent biblical worldview in shaping culture and policy.View the transcript, leave comments, and check out recommended resources on the Episode Landing Page!Learn more about the new ten-week Bible Study course for 10 Words to Heal Our Broken World by Scott David Allen.

Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 5min
"I Detest the Label Christian Nationalist" | Alisa Childers
Are we in a uniquely pivotal moment for Christians to shape culture? As interest in the Bible and openness to Christianity seem to be on the rise, believers might have a unique window of opportunity to disciple the nations. But how should we approach this exciting challenge?Today, we sit down with well-known author, speaker, and podcaster, Alisa Childers to go over the three predominant approaches to Christian cultural engagement, as outlined by theologian Owen Strachan in his clarifying article, “One ‘Holy Nation’ in Christ: Christian Nationalism in Historical and Theological Perspective.” You’ll hear us wrestle with each approach’s pitfalls. Could there be another way? Hear Alisa share her perspective on whether a “fourth way” exists—one that remains faithful to Scripture while effectively influencing society as a whole.Join us for a thought-provoking and relevant discussion on faith, culture, and the role of Christians in our exciting contemporary moment.View the transcript, leave comments, and check out recommended resources on the Episode Landing Page!

Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 4min
The Most Important Word You’ve Never Heard Of
Discover the concept of eucatastrophe—unexpected positive turns amid despair—coined by J.R.R. Tolkien. The discussion dives into powerful biblical narratives, showcasing how hope and redemption often emerge from chaos. You'll hear about Esther's courageous choices and their divine implications, alongside insights from 'The Lord of the Rings.' Personal stories illustrate the theme, encouraging listeners to find hope in adversity and recognize their agency in shaping outcomes. There's a call to embrace these ideas for cultural transformation and spiritual uplift.

Jan 22, 2025 • 1h 8min
Christian, Stop Avoiding Politics with Richard Nelson
Should Christians engage in politics? Of course, but how? In this episode, Richard Nelson, author of Christianity and Politics and President of The Commonwealth Policy Center, tackles this critical question. Historically and still today, Christians often fall into one of three inappropriate approaches to political engagement: they avoid politics as irrelevant to “more important” spiritual matters; strive for neutrality by avoiding alignment with any party or candidate; or they focus solely on allegiance to Jesus as King, seeking to ignore earthly government and rulers. Richard eloquently challenges these views, emphasizing how God's sovereignty extends to politics and culture. He highlights a biblical approach to issues like free speech, the sanctity of life, religious freedom, and fiscal responsibility. Like it or not, the Bible is deeply political, and its principles should guide all public engagement.View the transcript, leave comments, and check out recommended resources on the Episode Landing Page!Learn more about DNA’s free online Kingdomizer 101 Training: Truth and Transformation.

Jan 15, 2025 • 1h 12min
An Approach that Could Eradicate Homelessness with James Whitford
James Whitford, Co-founder and CEO of True Charity, discusses transformative strategies for eradicating poverty and homelessness. He critiques traditional charity methods, calling them 'toxic,' and highlights the significance of community-driven, dignity-focused solutions. Whitford emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift from dependency to empowerment, rooted in biblical principles. He also explores real-life stories that demonstrate the impact of mentorship and reciprocal relationships, urging a reevaluation of how we approach poverty alleviation.

Jan 8, 2025 • 1h 7min
Why are Climate Scientists Anti-Science? With Dr. David Legates
Climatologist David Legates challenges mainstream narratives on the climate, offering an important Christian perspective on the intersection of science, politics, and economics. Drawing insights from his book Climate and Energy: The Case for Realism, co-authored with leading scientists and economists, Legates builds upon our previous episode examining how climate science has shifted from objective inquiry to politicized advocacy.We consider:Misleading claims in climate activism and how to respond critically.The implications of climate policy on global poverty, energy costs, and environmental stewardship.The rise of postmodern science and its impact on climate researchDo climate change policies serve hidden agendas or impact broader societal transformations?From the reliability of carbon dating to the role of the church in restoring scientific integrity, this episode invites you to question prevailing narratives and engage in practical, truth-centered environmental action.Rediscover the essence of balanced climate science—and the hope for reclaiming stewardship that honors both creation and the Creator.View the transcript, leave comments, and check out recommended resources on the Episode Landing Page!Listen to our last episode with David Legates here: Climate & Energy: The Case for Realism with E. Calvin Beisner & David R. Legates

Jan 1, 2025 • 57min
Transforming Africa, featuring Terry Andrews and the God with Us discipleship curriculum
Discipling the next generation shapes the world of tomorrow and has never been more important, but finding the right curriculum can be a big challenge. Dr. Terry Andrews, a missionary with over 30 years experience in Africa, shares the profound impact she has seen with her God with Us discipleship curriculum. This innovative program has rapidly spread across Africa and beyond. Because it draws deeply on biblical truths from Genesis, it finds an audience among both Christian and Muslim youth, leading them to better understand and apply Christian principles. Engaging methods like storytelling and small group discussions captivate children’s attention and have been effective in schools, churches, and with sports teams. In addition, families and communities are healing and churches are flourishing.View the transcript, leave comments, and check out recommended resources on the Episode Landing Page!

Dec 18, 2024 • 1h 8min
Connecting Christmas to Creation Changes Everything with Jessica Shakir
Explore the profound truths hidden in our most cherished Christmas carols. "Joy to the World" announces the Kingship of Jesus, calling each of us to respond to His rule by pushing back against the effects of the fall. With grace, truth, and love, Christ's reign brings hope to our weary world. Similarly, "O Holy Night" paints a vivid picture of Christ's birth, a moment that brought humanity a new and glorious dawn.Our friend, Jessica Shakir, from The Beautiful Mind Academy, shares her passion about the Advent season with us as she thoughtfully connects the Christmas story back to the creation narrative. Are you ready to revitalize the deep joy and hope found in the Christmas message? Tune in for a festive conversation filled with reflection, celebration, and a renewed understanding of the true meaning of Christmas!View the transcript, leave comments, and check out recommended resources on the Episode Landing Page!

Dec 11, 2024 • 1h 3min
Don’t Stand for Social Justice with Dr. Calvin Beisner
What is meant by "social justice" today, and why do so many sincerely justice-loving Christians warn against it? Dr. Calvin Beisner of the Cornwall Alliance joins us to discuss social justice vs. biblical justice. We explore the complexities of justice, economic ethics, the flaws of socialism and capitalism, and the role of Christianity in addressing these global challenges. Dr. Beisner offers insights from his book Social Justice vs. Biblical Justice, where he refutes claims that the Bible advocates for wealth redistribution and builds a biblical framework for true justice. The discussion highlights the four criteria of biblical justice—impartiality, proportionality, rendering what is due, and conformity to God's law—while examining why some "rights" claimed in the name of social justice violate true, biblically defined rights. Don't miss this episode as this topic continues to be highly relevant and believers must have a solid biblical perspective in order to think rightly, form culture, and respond to the needs of our society.View the transcript, leave comments, and check out recommended resources on the Episode Landing Page!

Dec 4, 2024 • 1h 3min
LOVE (10 Words to Heal Our Broken World Series)
Can love truly heal our broken world? It might sound romanticized, but perhaps that’s because we haven’t fully explored the depth and weight of love. In this episode, we dive into a chapter from Scott Allen’s new book, 10 Words to Heal Our Broken World. We need to reshape our understanding of love, moving beyond the superficial definitions that dominate modern culture. We will explore love's concentric circles, from its joyful beginnings to the profound commitments of agape love. We also discuss how love must be grounded in truth.Have you considered the impact of postmodernism and secularism on cultural perspectives of love? Getting the meaning of love right can heal and unite society. This episode offers practical insights on living out God’s understanding of love, urging us to make it a central practice in our daily lives. Don’t miss this compelling conversation that challenges misconceptions and calls for a return to authentic, life-changing love.For all things 10 Words to Heal Our Broken World go to 10wordsbook.orgAmazon Purchase Link: 10 Words to Heal Our Broken World: Restoring the Meaning of Our Most Important WordsThe Discipline of Love by Bob MoffittToday, the definition of love has been abbreviated to two simplistic concepts: (1) A source of pleasure, joy, or delight. (2) A strong affection, often accompanied by romantic feelings and sexual attraction. Several other facets of the true meaning of love have been removed from our culture’s thinking. These include: (3) To value, cherish, or treasure. (4) Fidelity and devotion. Faithful commitment. (5) To seek the good of another, to give for his or her benefit, even at a significant personal cost.


