Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture

Katy Faust, Founder and President of Them Before Us, dives into the urgent topic of children's rights, advocating for their needs in policy discussions. She challenges damaging cultural narratives surrounding masculinity and femininity, highlighting their impact on youth. Faust critiques environmental policies, revealing how they can harm children's health, and discusses the troubling trends in education that prioritize adult interests over student achievement. Her insights are a call to rethink cultural misconceptions that affect our youngest generations.

Delve into the pressing issue of genetic discrimination and the gaps in U.S. laws that leave individuals vulnerable. Discover the debate surrounding Australia’s proposed ban on social media for minors, weighing mental health against freedom. Explore the recent resignation of a key church leader, raising serious questions of accountability. Listener inquiries tackle the ethics of vasectomies and moral obligations in terminal illness care, alongside a discussion on divine sovereignty in political matters.

In this insightful discussion, Dave Horner, a Professor of Theology and Philosophy at Talbot School of Theology, explores how to think biblically about morality. He addresses the challenge of moral relativism and presents the moral argument for God's existence. Horner delves into moral realism, emphasizing that objective moral standards exist beyond cultural opinions. He also shares his transformative journey of faith, and the importance of understanding metaethics in today’s world, especially for complex issues like abortion and immigration.

The discussion reflects on the challenges of maintaining relationships in a polarized post-election landscape, focusing on grace and understanding. There's a deep dive into balancing truth and compassion in sensitive conversations, particularly around topics like abortion. Ethical dilemmas in genetic screening for embryo intelligence are examined, raising questions about societal pressures on perfectionism. Additionally, the importance of nurturing dialogue and teaching biblical reliability to younger audiences is emphasized, fostering unity amid differing views.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Ben Witherington, an esteemed New Testament scholar and prolific author, tackles the concept of 'sola Scriptura' and its relevance today. He dives into its historical roots during the Protestant Reformation and discusses contemporary struggles with biblical authority amid a culture of personal experience. Witherington addresses the challenges of biblical literacy and emphasizes the importance of accurate scriptural interpretation. He also critiques modern discipleship practices, advocating for love and understanding in a polarized world.

This discussion tackles the ethical storm created by reviving a murdered teenager as a chatbot. It also highlights a Harvard study showing improved economic mobility for Black Americans, shifting the narrative around race and opportunity. Young men face alarming declines in education and mental health, signaling a crisis of purpose. The podcast delves into the moral complexities surrounding frozen embryos in IVF, emphasizing biblical perspectives. Finally, it encourages civic engagement, framing it within a biblical context.

Dive into a thought-provoking debate on the morality of in vitro fertilization. Explore the ethical dilemmas surrounding technology's role in conception and the impact on the sanctity of life. The discussion also tackles embryo adoption versus donation and the nuanced rights tied to parenthood. Gain insights into contrasting Christian perspectives on IVF, highlighting the health risks for IVF-conceived children. This engaging dialogue invites listeners to reflect on the profound moral complexities of reproductive technologies.

A heartbreaking story of a 14-year-old's suicide prompts a deep dive into the implications of AI in human relationships. The discussion explores a potential religious revival amidst rising secularism. Political language is dissected, revealing how words shape public perception and obscure truths. Listener questions spark a conversation on navigating family dynamics and ideological divides, while interfaith dialogues stress the importance of understanding and respecting core beliefs.

The podcast dives into the morality of in vitro fertilization (IVF) from a biblical perspective. It discusses the ethical complexities surrounding embryo freezing and the roles of surrogates and donor gametes. The speakers highlight the rising costs of IVF and its emotional toll on couples facing infertility. They emphasize the need for more open dialogue within Christian communities about IVF's ethical implications. Also explored are the challenges of separating procreation from sexual intimacy, prompting listeners to reconsider traditional views on family and morality.

Italy's decision to criminalize surrogacy abroad ignites debates on LGBTQ rights and ethical practices. The University of Michigan’s hefty DEI investment raises questions about effectiveness and campus unity. New prenuptial agreements include embryo clauses, highlighting unique legal dilemmas in relationships. The Catholic Archdiocese of LA's massive settlement for abuse victims reveals systemic issues within the church. Listeners delve into gender identity challenges, seeking faith-based perspectives.