Stand to Reason Weekly Podcast

In this conversation, Sean McDowell, an Associate Professor of Christian Apologetics at Biola University, shares his insights on navigating the complexities of cancel culture. He emphasizes the importance of empathetic communication and understanding personal biases when discussing contentious issues. Sean also advocates for steelmanning opponents' arguments for more productive dialogue. The discussion includes how to approach sensitive topics like sexuality with grace and the need for charitable engagement in debates, fostering meaningful conversations despite differences.

Join Jonathan Keller, President and CEO of the California Family Council, as he dives into the contentious Proposition 3, which addresses marriage equality in California. Keller raises concerns about the vague legal language that could redefine marriage and impact individual rights. He discusses the implications for minors and the potential recognition of polyamorous families, warning of long-term societal consequences. The conversation also emphasizes the moral responsibility of Christians to engage in voting, advocating for informed choices that align with foundational values.

Explore how trauma survivors can find healing by viewing their experiences through a biblical lens. Delve into the complexities of tithing and the importance of balancing support for the church with family needs. Discover how God's love is described in personal, individual terms rather than generalizations. Finally, navigate the nuances of communication, particularly in sign language, highlighting the importance of understanding intent and context in conveying faith.

The discussion sparks intrigue as it examines claims linking abortion bans to rising infant mortality rates, critiquing media narratives. The conversation transitions to the teleological argument, questioning if conceding low probabilities undermines intentional creation. Engaging with callers, the host tackles the challenge of convincing a former Jehovah’s Witness about Jesus' uncreated nature, navigating theological complexities with care. Each topic invites reflection on ethics, faith, and the intersection of science and belief.

Dive into a thought-provoking discussion about whether the A-theory and B-theory of time is a false dichotomy, particularly in relation to God's nature. Explore why Jesus had to suffer before his death and uncover the biblical basis for atonement. The complexities of gender dysphoria are examined, comparing its societal acceptance to issues like anorexia. Finally, the podcast challenges listeners to consider how to verify their faith objectively, ensuring they haven't fallen into self-delusion.

The discussion kicks off with a provocative question: does God even hear the prayers of those who don’t believe? Insightful biblical references deepen the exploration. Delving into Matthew 21:21, they unpack the meaning of faith without doubt and the power it holds. The podcast also tackles the tough choice of whether to leave a church, exploring what healthy critique looks like. Along the way, listeners are encouraged to cultivate a genuine relationship with God through prayer, beyond mere requests.

Dive into the intriguing world of entailment as the host tackles the originality of Christianity. Can it really be said to have borrowed ideas from older religions? Explore the lasting legacy of Abraham and whether his descendants still exist today. Furthermore, engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of God and transgender identity, challenging conventional views while rooting arguments in scripture. This vibrant conversation weaves through history, morality, and contemporary theological issues.

Join Bobby Conway, author and former skeptic, as he shares his transformative journey to faith. He candidly discusses navigating doubts and the challenges of living out Christianity in a flawed world. Conway addresses popular objections to the faith, emphasizing the importance of love and truth. He introduces the 'VCR' method for emotional healing and explores the complexities of salvation, divine justice, and the unique challenges faced by women in Christianity. This conversation reveals how belief can continually evolve amidst cultural realities.

Greg offers profound insights into the existence of God, addressing how biblical narratives contrast with Greek mythology and evolution. He discusses when intellectual inquiry might obstruct a genuine relationship with God. The conversation explores the meaning of Jesus as 'begotten' and provides a fresh perspective on the perceived cruelty of Abraham's test, contextualizing it within cultural norms. Greg also tackles the debate on God-given rights versus atheistic views, emphasizing the need for a divine foundation to safeguard our rights.

Explore the intriguing distinction between 'belief in' and 'belief that.' Dive into the debate on the validity of probability arguments supporting design. Discover thoughts on whether worship in Heaven is truly voluntary according to Scripture. Gain clarity on end times theology, navigating misconceptions about the rapture and resurrection. Each topic invites thoughtful discussion, challenging listeners to engage critically with their faith and beliefs.