In this week's conversation between Dr. James Emery White and co-host Alexis Drye, they discuss Barna Group teaming up with the Aspen Group design firm to explore possible connections between spiritual formation and the physical spaces that we inhabit. Questions such as: What does it mean to be formed as a follower of Jesus? And can the spaces that we meet in help motivate this growth? Also, how might our physical experiences of a church relate to our worship and understanding of God? In simple terms, they were trying to determine whether it's best for churches to look “churchy.” Episode Links Daniel Silliman wrote an article in Christianity Today which sparked today's conversation. It's titled “Americans Think Church Should Look Churchy,” and Silliman said that the survey found that most people “don't like trendy, modern buildings.” Dr. White would argue that while people do indeed want to attend church in a space that is sacred, spiritual and safe, that doesn't necessarily mean they want it to look overly churchy like some of the medieval churches in Europe. He wrote a blog recently about this topic titled “Churches Looking Churchy” which you can read HERE. There's another recent blog that was written by Dr. White that was referenced in this episode. It's called “This Is Church,” where Dr. White addresses how many businesses and parachurch organizations can try to step in and supplant themselves as the church when they most definitely are not. And if the discussion of the cathedral found in Chartres, France was of interest to you, we'd encourage you to read the Church & Culture blog titled, “Chartres.” For those of you who are new to Church & Culture, we'd love to invite you to subscribe (for free of course) to the twice-weekly Church & Culture blog and check out the Daily Headline News - a collection of headlines from around the globe each weekday. We'd also love to hear from you if there is a topic that you'd like to see discussed on the Church & Culture Podcast in an upcoming episode. You can find the form to submit your questions at the bottom of the podcast page HERE.

Dive into the cultural phenomenon of a certain Apple TV series that has transformed workplace dynamics into a riveting narrative. Explore themes of work/life balance, human identity, and the search for connection in a world of 'innies' and 'outies.' Unpack the psychological implications of choosing to escape emotional pain and the importance of enduring life's hardships for personal growth. The conversation invites thoughtful reflections on our relationships and the struggles of maintaining our authentic selves in an often fragmented world.

This conversation tackles the fascinating intersection of the biblical creation narrative in Genesis and scientific viewpoints. It scrutinizes human origins, contrasting the uniqueness of humanity with evolutionary theories. The absence of dinosaurs in Genesis sparks debate, with interpretations suggesting alternative representations. The discussion on Noah's flood reflects on historical skepticism and invites a localized understanding. Ultimately, the talk emphasizes how science and faith can harmoniously coexist, enriching believers' understanding of creation.

A groundbreaking NASA telescope aims to uncover the universe's origins, sparking a riveting discussion about the connection between science and faith. The conversation explores the poetic nature of Genesis, advocating for a view that harmonizes scientific and biblical narratives. With intriguing parables and interpretations, they tackle the complexities of miracles, the Big Bang theory, and the coexistence of creationism and evolution. This exploration considers whether a literal interpretation can align with modern scientific findings, inviting a deeper philosophical dialogue.

A recent survey reveals intriguing trends in American religion. While the number of people identifying as Christian has significantly dropped, the population of the religiously unaffiliated seems to have stabilized. Youth engagement is also declining, leading to concerns about the future of faith. The conversation emphasizes the need for churches to focus on evangelism and adaptation in their missions. Additionally, the findings suggest that a combination of personal testimonies with data could reshape the understanding of spiritual health in communities.

In a thought-provoking discussion, the hosts explore the alarming trend of intergenerational estrangement, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. They highlight the challenges faced by those from dysfunctional backgrounds when trying to honor the Fifth Commandment. As social media promotes 'going no contact,' they argue for reconciliation instead of avoidance. Insights into the significance of family dynamics are shared, and practical advice rooted in faith emphasizes open communication, forgiveness, and prayer to mend broken ties.

Dive into the intriguing quest for immortality as one man invests millions to reverse aging. Explore the clash between naturalistic worldviews and Christian beliefs about life after death. Delve into the balance between health obsession and neglect, viewing the body as sacred. Understand how the human body is a marvel, calling for mindfulness in wellness choices. Highlights the theological importance of seeing our bodies as temples, reminding us that true fulfillment may lie beyond just this life.

The conversation dives into Starbucks' pivot back to being a 'third place' for community. With a nostalgic reflection, it contrasts this with the church's loss of its central role in people's social lives. The discussion highlights the need for physical spaces that nurture connections in a digital age. By drawing parallels between church outreach and Starbucks' strategies, they emphasize the importance of fostering real community, even in larger congregations. Ultimately, it calls for a renewed focus on the core mission of the church in today's evolving culture.

The hosts dive into the shifting landscape of wedding traditions, questioning the modern disregard for sacred customs. They explore marriage's biblical roots in Genesis, highlighting its divine significance. There's a discussion on the symbolism behind traditional wedding elements and what they mean for Christian couples. The contrast between traditional and personalized officiants adds another layer, as they ponder the implications of this evolution on the essence of marriage today.

Natural disasters provoke a wide range of responses about God's role. Some feel anger, others seek explanations, while many find strength in faith. The discussion explores theodicy, examining how suffering intersects with free will and divine love. It emphasizes growth through adversity and the empathy that arises from shared pain. Personal stories highlight resilience, illustrating how faith can transform tragedy into hope and connection with the divine. This thought-provoking dialogue invites deeper reflection on the complexities of suffering.