The Sean McDowell Show

Could a first-century Jewish historian offer one of the most compelling extra-biblical confirmations of Jesus’ life? In this episode, Dr. Thomas Schmidt, a Yale Ph.D. and author of Josephus and Jesus: New Evidence for the One Called Christ, is here to explore the controversial Testimonium Flavianum, a passage in Josephus’ Antiquities that remarkably affirms key Christian beliefs: Jesus’ miracles, His messianic role, and even His resurrection. Dr. Schmidt challenges the traditional narrative about the passage being interpolated. READ: Josephus and Jesus: New Evidence for the One Called Christby T. C. Schmidt (https://a.co/d/dG4jLCW) Download book FREE: https://josephusandjesus.com/ 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_McDowell TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sean_mcdowell?lang=en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanmcdowell/ Website: https://seanmcdowell.org  Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sy Garte, a scientist and author advocating for evolutionary creationism, and Doug Axe, a Biola University colleague supporting intelligent design, engage in a lively discussion about evolution and its implications for faith. They explore the scientific status of evolution, debating crucial topics like the limitations of natural selection and the intricate relationship between Genesis and modern science. The conversation confronts the evolution of life and the evidence supporting or challenging its theories, highlighting the need for constructive dialogue amidst differing views.

William Lane Craig, a renowned Christian philosopher and theologian, tackles profound questions about God's nature. He explores how God can be omnipresent yet localized, and how omniscience coexists with human freedom. Craig discusses the Euthyphro dilemma, examining morality's link to divine command, and delves into Molinism, where divine knowledge interacts with free will. He emphasizes the delicate balance between philosophy and theology, inviting listeners to deepen their understanding of God's attributes and the complexities within Christian belief.

Have you ever wondered if angels are real or if you've encountered one without realizing it? Today, I discuss these questions with theologian Dr. Doug Potter to explore the evidence that angels are real and even maybe make themselves present in our lives today. READ: The Doctrine of Angels & Demons (NGIM Guide to Bible Doctrine) by Douglas Potter & Norman L. Geisler *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_McDowell TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sean_mcdowell?lang=en Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seanmcdowell/ Website: https://seanmcdowell.org   Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Jeff Morgan, a passionate advocate with Jews for Jesus and the host of the So Be It YouTube channel, discusses the intriguing rise of Jewish individuals embracing faith in Jesus. He shares his own compelling conversion story and explores the cultural complexities behind this movement. The conversation delves into the significance of these transformations as potential prophetic signs, the barriers faced by Jewish believers, and the role of technology in bridging faiths. Morgan emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding towards new believers from diverse backgrounds.

Renowned sociologist Dr. Christian Smith, a professor at the University of Notre Dame, delves into the shocking decline of traditional religion in America since the 1990s. He explores how cultural and technological shifts have led to the rise of non-religious identities. Discussing concepts like moralistic therapeutic deism, he highlights its impact on American youth and their complex relationship with spirituality. Smith also examines the changing dynamics of faith, family, and community, emphasizing the need for religious practices to adapt in a rapidly evolving society.

In this engaging conversation, Paul Rinzler, an atheist professor known for his thoughtful debates on the supernatural, challenges traditional views on miracles. They discuss whether miracles exist today and the implications of events like the resurrection of Jesus. The dialogue explores how meaning can be derived without divine intervention and navigates the emotional weight of unanswered prayers. Rinzler and his host advocate for respectful discourse, enriching the conversation around belief, skepticism, and the profound nature of human experience.

Os Guinness, a noted social critic and author of "Our Civilizational Moment," discusses the crisis facing Western civilization, emphasizing the need to reconnect with its foundational Christian roots. He explores the tension between global citizenship and national identity, advocating for local loyalty. Guinness critiques the sidelining of faith in society and its necessary resurgence to tackle modern challenges. He warns against the pitfalls of nationalism, promotes cultural renewal, and underscores the importance of balancing personal faith with active societal engagement.

In this discussion with Dr. Tim Muehlhoff, a communications expert and professor at Biola, the focus is on the delicate nature of empathy within Christian faith. They debate the potential dangers of excessive empathy that may lead to compromising biblical truths. The talk navigates through issues of respectful dialogue on contentious topics, the balance between compassion and conviction, and explores the concept of 'toxic empathy.' Their insights aim to clarify how to maintain moral integrity while engaging empathically in today's polarized cultural landscape.

Is living together before marriage truly a path to success? A fascinating discussion reveals that cohabitation often leads to less stability and more challenges in relationships. The impact of living together on marriage and children is explored, alongside the importance of commitment. The conversation highlights the significance of intentional decision-making and the potential risks associated with casual cohabitation. Listeners are encouraged to consider the value of marriage as a public commitment for lasting love.