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Stand to Reason
Stand to Reason’s Greg Koukl and Amy Hall answer questions on ethics, theology, apologetics, and culture from a Christian perspective. Submit your questions on Twitter using the hashtag #STRask.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 5, 2024 • 23min
Are Our Physical Ailments Caused by Spiritual Warfare?
The podcast dives into the intriguing connection between physical ailments and spiritual warfare. It questions whether demons play a role in our health issues and examines the complexities of their agency under God's command. Listeners learn that not every illness can be attributed to demonic influence, advocating for a more nuanced perspective. Through biblical examples, the discussion highlights how suffering can test faith yet serve a greater purpose, emphasizing that while evil exists, genuine transformation stems from within.

Dec 2, 2024 • 22min
Can Evil Spirits Come into Our Lives Through Certain Music and Movies?
The podcast dives into whether music and movies can invite evil spirits into our lives. Speakers contemplate the power of personal belief versus external influences, sharing personal anecdotes about spiritual battles. They debate the effectiveness of placing Bible verses under pillows to combat nightmares, questioning if it's mere superstition. Other intriguing discussions include the impact of occult objects and the need for discernment in media consumption, emphasizing a genuine relationship with faith over ritualistic practices.

Nov 28, 2024 • 24min
If I’m Not Being Persecuted, Does That Mean I’m Not Living a Godly Life?
Explore the intriguing notion of whether a lack of persecution indicates a less godly life. Unpack the complexities of personal suffering and its impact on one's faith, especially after traumatic experiences like cancer. Delve into the nurturing of the fruits of the Spirit—are they automatic gifts or seeds requiring growth? Discover the key differences between new converts and seasoned disciples, focusing on the traits that define spiritual maturity and the journey of faith amidst societal pressures.

Nov 25, 2024 • 21min
Why Would God’s Spirit Cause People to Loathe Themselves and Be Ashamed?
The podcast dives into the paradox of feeling shame despite receiving God's Spirit, questioning Ezekiel's contrasting messages. It explores how awareness of sin can grow as one draws closer to God, linking maturity with the realization of personal shortcomings. The discussions reveal how holiness can transform self-perception, discussing figures like Jesus and Isaiah. Ultimately, it emphasizes that understanding sin can deepen love for God while challenging misconceptions about grace and shame in the Christian faith.

Nov 21, 2024 • 28min
Why Should We Treat Everyone Respectfully?
The discussion delves into why respect is crucial, even for those we deem unworthy. It tackles the challenges of reconciling stern language from religious figures with the call for gentleness and respect. There's a compelling critique of the idea that faith is just ego-driven pretension, emphasizing the historical contributions of believers to knowledge. The philosophical complexities of an unseen God are explored, alongside the importance of engaging in respectful dialogue about differing beliefs.

Nov 18, 2024 • 22min
How Would You Respond to the Current Mainstream View of the Historical Jesus?
This discussion dives into the mainstream views surrounding the historical figure of Jesus. It emphasizes the importance of primary sources like the Gospels to avoid misconceptions. The speakers explore the implications of the New Testament's dating and scrutinize claims of Jesus being a non-supernatural figure. They challenge allegations that Jesus borrowed from ancient myths, urging a focus on independent evidence. Lastly, the conversation highlights the vital role of the Old Testament and Jewish traditions in understanding Jesus’ teachings.

Nov 14, 2024 • 21min
How Do You Convince a Former Christian That Jesus Is God?
Dive into the intriguing discussion on how to engage with former Christians who doubt Jesus' divinity. Explore common objections to the Trinity and the incarnation, using thoughtful analogies. Learn how to present compelling evidence for Jesus as God, linking His attributes to divine expectations. Discover the New Testament's role as a credible historical source supporting these beliefs. Lastly, unravel the complexities of Jesus' dual nature, clarifying the significance of terms like 'firstborn' in theological contexts.

Nov 11, 2024 • 24min
Do You Need to Forgive God?
The discussion navigates the complex emotions of anger toward God, prompting listeners to express frustrations while holding onto trust in His goodness. It delves into the necessity of forgiveness and whether the concept of forgiving God is valid. The podcast highlights the significance of self-forgiveness rooted in divine grace and the context of sacrifices in the Old Testament. Finally, it examines accountability within the Christian community and the vital role of church leaders in guiding spiritual growth and discipline.

Nov 7, 2024 • 29min
What Progressive Christian Teachings Should I Look Out For?
Delve into the intriguing world of progressive Christianity and its departure from traditional beliefs. Discover how some interpret John 16:12–13 to support their views and the implications of such interpretations. Explore the clash between the authority of Scripture and progressive perspectives, as well as the complexities surrounding divine judgment and moral standards. The discussion also highlights the significance of the apostles' authority when understanding biblical truths, shedding light on the ongoing debate within modern faith.

Nov 4, 2024 • 28min
How Do We Know Moses Interpreted His Experiences of God Correctly?
This podcast dives into the intriguing complexities of interpreting divine revelation. It questions the credibility of biblical authors like Moses compared to figures like Joseph Smith. The discussion emphasizes the distinction between subjective experiences and objective truths in religious claims. Historical validation of Moses' revelations is highlighted, showcasing tangible evidence that strengthened communal faith. The episode also tackles the philosophical debate on differing truths, urging listeners to discern between individual perceptions and the reality of truth.