Stand to Reason Weekly Podcast

The discussion dives into the intriguing world of Christian denominations, exploring the reasons behind their diversity and the importance of unity in core beliefs. There's advice on how to engage with those who claim salvation without evident spiritual growth, addressing the challenges posed by the 'sinner’s prayer.' The conversation also touches on the casual use of expressions like 'Oh my God,' examining the intersection of reverence and everyday language. Lastly, the impact of personal experiences on faith and knowledge acquisition is thoughtfully analyzed.

Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on the meaning of the 'Word of God' in Acts and its relevance today. Explore whether repentance is necessary for granting forgiveness and learn how grudges can harm your soul. The conversation also touches on the intriguing question of whether Jesus is the only one with scars in Heaven, along with a deep look at the complexities surrounding the origin of evil. Engage with these profound insights that challenge your understanding of faith, forgiveness, and moral responsibility.

Sean McDowell, an apologist and author, dives into new findings from his book on the deaths of Jesus' apostles. He reassesses the historical accounts of apostolic martyrdom, highlighting how eyewitness testimony sets these figures apart from other religious martyrs. The discussion also tackles the evidence surrounding the resurrection and the controversial apostle Thomas's possible journey to India. With humor and scholarly insight, McDowell encourages fresh examination of early Christian history and the reliability of its narratives.

Greg explains that the first rule of prayer is to pray and the first rule of Bible reading is to read, then he answers questions about what it means to “pray about it,” overcoming a tendency to freeze up when asked a question, mistakenly claiming a promise, and finding fellowship.   Topics: Commentary: The first rule of prayer and Bible reading (00:00) What should “pray about it” look like in practice? (22:00) What can I do to overcome my tendency to freeze up when someone asks me a question? (34:00) If Old Testament promises don’t apply to us, why is it that when people mistakenly claim a promise in the Bible for themselves, it seems to work for them? (38:00) How can I put my identity in Christ and truly follow him if even those who are called by his name push me away while they themselves don’t seek him? (48:00) Mentioned on the Show:  Submit a question on the Open Mic Line Street Smarts: Using Questions to Answer Christianity’s Toughest Challenges by Greg Koukl Reality Student Apologetics Conference – March 21–22, in Philadelphia, PA; April 25–26 in Dayton, OH Related Links: Making Sense of Unanswered Prayer by Amy Hall

Dive into the fiery debate between Provisionism and Calvinism, uncovering the reasons behind the hostility. Explore the complexities of free will, salvation, and the role of grace in these differing views. A listener's perspective challenges the randomness of evolution, sparking a discussion on creationism and intelligent design. Gain insights into the critique of materialistic explanations, and ponder the interplay between science and theology, all while engaging in thought-provoking dialogues on faith and reasoning.

Jonathan Morrow, Director of Cultural Engagement at Impact 360 Institute and creator of the Refresh Roadmap course, shares insightful strategies for parents navigating their kids' screen time and social media. He emphasizes the crucial need for proactive involvement in managing technology use and discusses alarming statistics on its impact on mental health. Morrow also offers practical advice for establishing healthy boundaries, monitoring social media interactions, and the importance of equipping children for a digital world.

Explore four essential skills that can elevate your kids' maturity and responsibility. Delve into the philosophical debate on A-theory and B-theory of time and its implications for God's existence. Reflect on the dual identity of Christians as both sinners and saints, and learn how to engage thoughtfully with those attributing events to 'the universe.' Finally, discuss the value of early church teachings amidst their disagreements, highlighting the importance of grounding faith in Scripture.

Is prayer ineffective if God already knows the outcome of events? This intriguing question sparks a discussion on free will and divine omniscience. The morality of collective guilt is examined, challenging traditional views on Adam and Eve's decisions. Biblical interpretations around the afterlife are dissected, particularly in light of Lazarus's resurrection. Unique perspectives on the intertwining of non-physical and physical existence lead to a deeper understanding of the soul's relationship with the body. Mind-bending debates await you!

Exploring complex biblical interpretations, the discussion dives into the meaning of fear in Deuteronomy and grapples with the moral questions surrounding justice and bullying. Insights into engaging apathetic individuals are shared, emphasizing patience in spiritual conversations. The challenges of women leading in faith communities are addressed, alongside the intricate relationship between free will and divine sovereignty, offering guidance on discerning life's difficulties. Expect thoughtful reflections intertwined with personal anecdotes!

The discussion delves into whether animal death existed before the biblical fall or if it represents a fundamental change in God's creation. Strategies for engaging with adult children involved in political movements are highlighted, emphasizing respect and understanding. The podcast questions if faith requires dismissing the supernatural to avoid appearing foolish. Lastly, listeners receive advice on finding traditional, Bible-believing churches amidst a landscape of problematic congregations, focusing on the importance of community and spiritual nourishment.