Upstream

Something happens to Christians who join the largest worldview fellowship in existence. Confusion turns to confidence, fear turns to hope, and they discover how their lives fit into God’s grand story. This week Shane welcomes Michael Craven, dean of the Colson Fellows, to cast a vision for this remarkable and growing program.

Scott Klusendorf, author of 'The Case for Life', discusses post-Roe challenges in the pro-life movement. Topics include debating abortion, using emotional visuals, defining personhood at conception, updating pro-life arguments, and the ethics of incremental changes in the movement.

Exploring metaphors in nature and scripture, Dr. Joy Clarkson discusses the power of language in shaping our understanding of ourselves. From rootedness in identity to wisdom as light in scripture, the discussion touches on navigating sadness and sharing burdens, as well as the use of metaphors in Christian worldviews and the significance of evoking emotions through words.

Our divide between “ordinary jobs” and “ministry” and “mission” reveals a hidden assumption about the size of the gospel, and what Christ expects His people to do on this earth. Shane welcomes Jordan Raynor, author of The Sacredness of Secular Work to challenge that assumption.

Dr. Abigail Favale, author of The Genesis of Gender, discusses the origins of the modern concept of gender, the impact of feminism on gender and religion, the role of language in postmodernism, contradictions within the ideology of gender, the societal impact of contraception, and the central tenet of stoicism in relation to gender assumptions.

Thaddeus Williams, author of 'Don't Follow Your Heart', discusses the pitfalls of self-worship and the impact of the 'follow your heart' message in popular culture, media, and the church. He explores the ten commandments of self-worship and advocates for breaking them. The podcast also delves into the influence of subjectivism and Nietzscheanism in modern society, the origins of self-worship in scripture, and the importance of rejecting self-worship and embracing God's guidance for fulfillment.

Expert Andrew Wilson discusses how the year 1776 shaped the post-Christian West, highlighting major historical events, the challenge of forgetfulness in the modern age, understanding history through storytelling, the influence of geography on the rise of the West, and the impact of industrialization on society.

Christopher Talbot, co-editor of 'Christians in Culture: Cultivating a Christian Worldview for All of Life', discusses the relevance of Christianity, establishing a Christian worldview, engaging the culture, laying the foundation of a Christian worldview, and manifesting the Lordship of Christ in all areas of life.

Dr. Alastair Roberts, a scholar who explores the intersection of Scripture and Christ's birth, shares profound insights. He discusses how the road to Emmaus reveals prophetic connections between the Old and New Testaments. Delving into themes of spiritual maturity, he emphasizes the dynamic nature of biblical narratives. The conversation highlights significant figures like Mary and Simeon, showcasing their essential roles in redemption. Roberts connects the Davidic legacy to Christ, illuminating the fulfillment of God's promises during the Advent season.

From the tilled earth to the family table, every step of growing and preparing food was intended by God to teach us spiritual truths. Yet many of us have forgotten how to taste and see. Shane welcomes documentary filmmaker Andrew Brumme to reintroduce us to the sacredness of mealtime using Robert Farrar Capon’s classic, The Supper of the Lamb.