The Sean McDowell Show

Miroslav Volf, a renowned theologian and Yale professor, discusses his book 'The Cost of Ambition.' He explores how our culture's obsession with ambition may harm our souls. Volf highlights the dangers of competition and striving for superiority, emphasizing the importance of personal development over comparison. He offers insights on meritocracy and intrinsic human value, urging listeners to reflect on true worth and authenticity. Through biblical reflections, he challenges traditional views on ambition, promoting kindness and honor in our pursuits.

John Schlitt, a four-time Grammy Award winner and lead singer of the Christian rock band Petra, shares his gripping journey from the heights of rock stardom with Head East to a profound personal crash that led him to faith. He discusses his battles with addiction, the challenges of a mixed-religion household, and the pressures within the music industry. Schlitt explores why many Christian artists are questioning their faith today and reflects on Petra's impactful legacy in Christian music, emphasizing the importance of community and accountability in maintaining faith amid fame.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Collin Hansen, author of 'Where is God in a World with So Much Evil?', explores the haunting question of why a loving God would allow the Holocaust. He reflects on the emotional impact and personal stories tied to this tragedy, connecting them to broader themes of trauma and morality. Hansen delves into the nature of evil, discussing human responsibility and the complexities of suffering. He also emphasizes the importance of divine dialogue, drawing insights from the Book of Job and urging a deeper understanding of faith amidst hardship.

Lee Strobel, a former editor at the Chicago Tribune and bestselling author, dives into the realm of the supernatural. He discusses evidence for angels, miraculous healings in Mozambique and Brazil, and shares personal stories that challenge skepticism. Strobel advocates for an open-minded exploration of near-death experiences and divine encounters. With anecdotes of individuals experiencing profound healing and supernatural protection, he invites listeners to reconsider the relationship between faith, suffering, and scientific limitations.

How does a World Renowned Drummer for people like Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown and Frankie Valli come to Jesus and continue to spread his ministry while drumming for these legendary musicians? Today, he tells us his story to faith and how he continues to evangelize and be a good example to these people to show his faith. READ: Maria’s Scarf: A Memoir of a Mother’s Love, a Son’s Perseverance, and Dreaming Big by Zoro (https://a.co/d/i2XLGoI)*Get a MASTERS IN APOLOGETICS or SCIENCE AND RELIGION at BIOLA (https://bit.ly/3LdNqKf)*USE Discount Code [SMDCERTDISC] for 25% off the BIOLA APOLOGETICS CERTIFICATE program (https://bit.ly/3AzfPFM)*See our fully online UNDERGRAD DEGREE in Bible, Theology, and Apologetics: (https://bit.ly/448STKK)FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Twitter: https://x.com/Sean_McDowellTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sean_mcdowell?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanmcdowell/Website: https://seanmcdowell.org

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Jonathan McLatchie, a PhD holder in Molecular Biology and apologetics mentor, teams up with Bible scholar Dan McClellan, known for his thought-provoking TikTok insights. They tackle the notion of contradictions in Gospel accounts, emphasizing that apparent discrepancies can deepen understanding rather than undermine faith. The duo debates the implications of resurrection narratives, advocating for critical engagement in apologetics and exploring how diverse perspectives within the Gospels enhance biblical interpretation.

Explore the surprising trends in Bible engagement for 2025, revealing a paradox of increasing sales but declining active users. Discover how Gen Z is reshaping these patterns and the profound connection between scripture reading and personal well-being. The impact of AI on Bible study practices is examined, alongside the resurgence of in-person church attendance post-COVID. Delve into the inspiring link between biblical engagement and acts of generosity, as well as the transformative benefits of regular scripture reading for emotional health and community ties.

Suresh Budapreeti, a doctoral student and former Hindu from Nepal, shares his inspiring story of moving from the Dalit caste to Christianity. He discusses the harsh realities of untouchability and systemic discrimination in Nepal, offering personal experiences that highlight his radical conversion. Suresh contrasts Hinduism and Christianity, shedding light on the hope Christianity provides amidst deep-rooted societal prejudices. He also dives into his advocacy for equality in Christian marriages, promoting dignity and inclusion for all, particularly within the Dalit community.

David Wood, a former atheist turned Christian apologist, dives into the intriguing history behind the deaths of the apostles. He discusses the reliability of martyrdom accounts, revealing what Foxes Book of Martyrs got right and wrong. Wood emphasizes the apostles' unwavering faith in Jesus' resurrection, challenging skeptics with rigorous historical analysis. He explores the significance of persecution faced by early Christians, particularly the controversial narratives surrounding figures like Peter and James, while illuminating the impact of martyrdom on belief.

Are modern miracles real or are they just wishful thinking? Dr. Candy Gunther Brown, a Harvard-trained professor of religious studies at Indiana University, and author of Testing Prayer, is here to explain the most provocative questions in faith and science: Does prayer still heal? What does the science show about the efficacy of prayer? I hope this conversation inspires you to think critically and faithfully about supernatural claims.READ: Testing Prayer, by Candy Gunther Brown (https://amzn.to/4djsAGW)*Get a MASTERS IN APOLOGETICS or SCIENCE AND RELIGION at BIOLA (https://bit.ly/3LdNqKf)*USE Discount Code [SMDCERTDISC] for 25% off the BIOLA APOLOGETICS CERTIFICATE program (https://bit.ly/3AzfPFM)*See our fully online UNDERGRAD DEGREE in Bible, Theology, and Apologetics: (https://bit.ly/448STKK)FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Twitter: https://x.com/Sean_McDowellTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sean_mcdowell?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanmcdowell/Website: https://seanmcdowell.org