Giant Steps ~ with Doug Van Dorn

Author, pastor, seminary president, former Army Ranger, PhD candidate, classically trained jazz musician, gourmet chef, Nick Kennicott is a man for all seasons. In this episode, we talk about the topic of his dissertation: critical race theory, how is it communism come home to roost in our own country and why it is one of the most important topics we can discuss in the context of our rapidly disintegrating republic. 

Tim Ross, a professional actor and narrator for the documentary 'Angels & Giants,' joins the conversation to discuss the extensive process of creating a four-part documentary over two years, filmed across five continents. He shares insights into the collaborative challenges faced during production and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. The discussion also explores ancient narratives of giants, connections to mystical sites, and a compelling investigation of the Nephilim's origins, combining personal anecdotes and archaeological discoveries.

Mondo Gonzalez, a seasoned pastor with expertise in Jewish studies, leads a dynamic panel alongside John Moffitt, Derek Gilbert, Judd Burton, and Brian Godawa. They passionately defend Michael Heiser’s teachings, addressing recent controversies with respect and scholarship. The discussion covers the complexity of biblical texts, the concept of the divine council, and the historical importance of terms like 'Elohim.' They encourage nuanced interpretations, emphasizing the significance of context and dialogue in understanding Scripture's profound insights.

The doctrine of baptism has been many different takes over the centuries. From the mode to the recipients to the reasons why we do it. In this show, Doug explains why he is a credobaptist, that is someone who baptizes based on a profession of faith rather than also adding the infants of believers into that mix. The previous episode on covenants serves as the starting point, so make sure you tune into that one first. Both episodes present some unique and very eye opening biblical connections and explanations that you won’t hear many other places. In fact, Doug’s argument for baptism is both ancient but also quite unique in its take and explanation. You won’t want to miss it. 

Covenants and the Bible. Helping us understand the unity of the Bible and how important this is to our understanding of its message and it’s God, this show is an overview of covenant theology from Doug’s Reformed Baptist perspective. We take a look at the pre-historical covenant of redemption, the pre-fall covenant of works/life/creation, and the post fall covenants with Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Levi, and David on into the new covenant or covenant of grace that God makes with his people through Jesus.

A closer look at the design of creation. God's approach to create, give order, and fill culminates with a 7th day that in it's repose is also a coronation in the Temple that He built for Himself in the sinless version of the world.

Cosmic Mountains.....High places where mankind would attempt to meet with the gods. One day The Son of God very much stood on a an elevated place and did in fact meet with mankind. We discuss the recurring Biblical Themes of cosmic mountains.

Michael Imadi, a missionary in Ireland and expert in ancient languages, shares fascinating insights about the chiastic structure in Star Wars. He reveals how George Lucas employs mirrored storytelling techniques similar to ancient narratives, creating deep thematic connections. The discussion links character arcs between trilogies and highlights the artistry in the films. Imadi also draws parallels to biblical texts, exploring how these structures enhance our understanding of both cinematic and sacred narratives, blending pop culture with academic depth.

Solar flares and cellular networks?! Spanglish! What happened to the sons of God who received the title deed to the spiritual atmosphere? Where did demons come from? Who exactly is Satan? and...an exciting announcement!

When exactly was "the Fall" of man? was it Adam and Eve in the garden? was there another "fall of mankind"?...where there more than two "falls"?. Hold on a minute!! are we sinners simply by being born??   Is it maybe time to review all of this and make sense of some other theories that go back hundreds upon hundreds of years? Have we understood it correctly? Let's unpack all of this!