Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture

In this engaging discussion, Miroslav Volf, a leading public theologian and professor at Yale, explores the intricate relationship between ambition and spirituality. He reveals how cultural pressures can lead individuals to constantly compare themselves to others, ultimately harming their self-worth and relationships. Volf distinguishes between healthy ambition and harmful superiority striving, urging listeners to ground their worth in God's affirmation. He also critiques modern meritocracy and discusses the impact of technology on our competitive natures.

In this engaging discussion, Rick Langer, a professor and cultural commentator, explores significant topics like the link between loneliness and susceptibility to conspiracy theories, emphasizing the need for community. They also delve into Elon Musk's plan for a million humanoid robots, raising ethical concerns about the future of work. Finally, Rick analyzes the surprising rise of Orthodox Christianity among young men, attributing it to its beauty, tradition, and appeal to masculinity, while also reflecting on insights regarding film ratings and how they can impact societal values.

Dr. Jennifer Morse, founder of the Ruth Institute, shares insights on the lasting consequences of the sexual revolution. She defines its core tenets, highlighting how they disconnect sex from marriage and biological norms. Morse discusses the harm done to youth and families, and elaborates on the evolution of gender ideology as a philosophical offshoot of these ideas. She also emphasizes the need for compassionate support for individuals questioning their gender identity, while addressing the impact of cultural shifts on corporate support for LGBTQ initiatives.

The hosts dive into the evolving landscape of abortion access post-Dobbs, exploring how telehealth and the abortion pill are reshaping legal battles. A critical look at rising antisemitism leads to discussions about Tucker Carlson's controversial platforming of extremists. Ethical questions arise with the introduction of animal-to-human organ transplants using genetically modified pigs, alongside personal reflections on health and safety implications. The conversation wraps with insights on healing from distorted theology and evaluating faith-based films.

Ruslan KD, a dynamic Christian YouTuber, rapper, and author of 'Godly Ambition,' shares his inspiring journey from a refugee childhood in Azerbaijan to finding faith. He discusses how community service at a Black Baptist church rekindled his relationship with Christ and his passion for engaging Gen Z in faith conversations. Ruslan critiques the church's outreach gaps, emphasizes the importance of civil disagreements, and motivates through his insights on ambition, urging a balance between personal drive and serving others.

The discussion kicks off with the election of progressive mayor Zohran Mamdani, diving into socialism's allure for today's youth. They explore the surrogacy industry's troubling exploitation, highlighting the ethical dilemmas and lack of oversight. The conversation also touches on AI erotica, raising concerns about its impact on real relationships and the normalization of digital pornography. Finally, listener questions provide personal insights on chronic pain and a critical look at democratic socialism compared to authoritarian regimes.

Tim Tebow, a former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL quarterback, now leads the Tim Tebow Foundation, focusing on anti-trafficking efforts. In this engaging conversation, he reflects on his journey from athlete to advocate, emphasizing the importance of seeing every individual as valuable. Tebow shares poignant stories about his father's influence and encounters with vulnerable people that shaped his perspective. He challenges listeners to confront societal lies about worth and stresses the need for collective action to combat evil and uplift those in need.

Rick Langer, a theologian and pastoral voice, joins the conversation to explore the impact of dating apps on modern relationships and the challenge of finding meaning over fleeting happiness. They discuss the NBA betting scandal and the moral implications of gambling's rise in sports culture, highlighting the addiction risks and the church's role in addressing it. Additionally, they analyze Bill Gates’ pragmatic approach to climate change, advocating for actionable solutions for the developing world. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their scripture reading habits and engage thoughtfully in discussions about faith.

In this engaging discussion, professor Gregg Allison, a Southern Baptist Theological Seminary scholar and author of "Complementarity," dives into the contentious topic of women's roles in the church and home. He explores the definitions of complementarianism and egalitarianism, offering a thoughtful foundation in complementarity aimed at fostering unity. Gregg examines historical perspectives, interprets biblical texts on gender, and highlights how Jesus modeled equality in discipleship. His insights propose a way forward that emphasizes mutual respect and flourishing within the church community.

This conversation dives into the relevance of voting as an expression of love for neighbors. The ethics of using CRISPR for treating Down syndrome are explored, highlighting dignity and therapeutic issues. Discussions on national identity versus allegiance to God's Kingdom stress humility and love for country without nationalism. The hosts also tackle deep questions about God's control over events, and the sensitive subject of abortion liabilities, advocating for compassion and pragmatic strategies.