Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture

Brian Orme, CEO of Global Christian Relief, discusses the urgent realities of the persecuted church worldwide. He highlights the troubling rise in Christian persecution and the lack of awareness among U.S. believers. Through powerful stories, including that of Suzanne, who remains steadfast in faith despite extreme adversity, listeners are called to embrace a deeper empathy. Orme emphasizes actionable ways to support persecuted Christians, stressing the importance of prayer and the role of organizations in providing aid and connection to the global church.

A new federal law aims to combat non-consensual intimate imagery and deepfakes. Colorado's controversial legislation raises parental rights issues related to sex education and gender identity. The ethics surrounding a brain-dead pregnant woman's life support are also explored. Finally, the groundbreaking use of gene editing in a newborn raises questions about the moral implications of such technologies. These discussions dive deep into the cultural challenges and ethical concerns shaping our society today.

David Mathis, senior teacher and executive editor at desiringGod.org, dives into the surprising intersection of faith and fitness. He explores whether Jesus would embrace exercise today and reflects on how physical activity can enhance spiritual health. The discussion encourages seeing exercise as a means to glorify God, rather than just a personal pursuit. Mathis emphasizes the importance of gratitude in fitness routines and critiques modern workout culture, urging believers to align their physical wellness with their faith.

Explore the struggles and triumphs of young men as they navigate education and mental health, with some rediscovering faith in a secular world. Delve into the dark revelations surrounding Pornhub, shedding light on corporate negligence and child exploitation. Consider the moral intricacies of assisted suicide and the need for compassionate care over quick solutions. Engage in thoughtful discussions about cohabitation and the ethical implications of alternative medicine, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and community support.

Tim Muehlhoff, a communications professor at Biola University, dives into the role of empathy in today’s society, questioning if it’s being weaponized to sway Christian beliefs. The discussion tackles the balance between genuine compassion and accountability, especially towards offenders. Muehlhoff highlights the moral limits of empathy within biblical texts and critiques contemporary feminism, advocating for nuance. He emphasizes the need for empathy to coexist with truth in Christian communication, ensuring that compassion doesn’t compromise biblical values.

Thaddeus Williams, a professor and author, dives into pressing cultural issues. The selection of Robert Prevost as the first American Pope sparks discussion on his pro-life views and potential stances on LGBTQ+ matters. A Supreme Court case on funding for religious charter schools raises questions about education and faith. The dialogue also covers the importance of prioritizing children's rights in LGBTQ discussions and the need for a biblical perspective on race for true unity among believers.

Dr. Chris Ralston, a scholar from Rice University and staff member at Joni and Friends, dives deep into the theology of disability. He addresses profound questions about why God allows disabilities and how they fit into His divine plan. Through personal stories, he explores the transformative power of grace and challenges traditional ideals of perfection. Ralston also reflects on the beauty of restoration, likening it to the Japanese art of kintsugi, emphasizing that individuals with disabilities can glorify God in unique ways.

A large study reveals alarming health risks associated with the abortion pill, raising ethical questions about consent and the unborn. Meanwhile, new research shows American fathers are significantly increasing their time with kids, challenging cultural views on fatherhood's importance. The evolving job market reveals fears around AI replacing entry-level roles among graduates, highlighting the need for adaptability. Finally, experts discuss happiness stemming from purpose and relationships, echoing age-old wisdom on love and service.

What does the Bible say, if anything, about living together before marriage? Given that 70% of Americans now cohabit before marriage, and roughly 2/3 believe it will improve the odds of relationship success, what does the data show about how effective it is? While this is a huge topic in the church and culture today, surprisingly, few people are discussing it. In this episode, Sean and Scott discuss a recent study on cohabitation from the Institute for Family Studies.Download the study: https://ifstudies.org/reports/whats-the-plan-cohabitation/2023/executive-summary Join us for ANCHORED: A Conference for Pastors, Church Leaders and the Community June 9-11, 2025. Hosted by Talbot School of Theology at Biola University in Southern California. Learn more and register at https://www.biola.edu/anchored ==========Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California. Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically. Watch video episodes at: https://bit.ly/think-biblically-video. To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.

Topics this week: Controversy after Christianity Today published an article questioning whether Jesus was crucified with nails.    The Supreme Court is debating whether parents can opt their kids out of LGBTQ-themed books in elementary schools.    The New York Times and USA Today published articles discussing the return to church, particularly among young men, and the increased interest in the supernatural in today's culture.    Listener question on the ethical and theological implications of the rise of megachurches and ultra-rich pastors.    Listener question on how to test the reliability and reputability of news sources in the age of disinformation.    Join us for ANCHORED: A Conference for Pastors, Church Leaders and the Community June 9-11, 2025. Hosted by Talbot School of Theology at Biola University in Southern California. Learn more and register at https://www.biola.edu/anchored ==========Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California. Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically. Watch video episodes at: https://bit.ly/think-biblically-video. To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.