The Sean McDowell Show

Why has traditional religion declined so sharply in America since the early 1990s? Today, I have renowned sociologist Dr. Christian Smith to unpack the cultural, technological and generational forces behind the apparent obsolescence of religion in the West. Religion didn’t just decline, it was quietly replaced. READ: Why Religion Went Obsolete: The Demise of Traditional Faith inby Christian Smith (https://a.co/d/4osqans)*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 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.

Why are so many Muslims around the world having dreams and visions of Jesus? Tom Doyle is a missionary, speaker, and is the author of "Dreams and Visions: Is Jesus Awakening the Muslim World?" He's here to explain why he believes many Muslims from around the world are coming to Christ. Today, we'll explore the remarkable rise of supernatural encounters in the Islamic world and what they might mean.READ: Dreams and Visions, by Tom Doyle (https://amzn.to/43dO5pa)WATCH: A Die-Hard Shia Muslim Finds Jesus (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bygvw6Nk8M)*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

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.