Justin Giboney, an attorney and political strategist, and David French, a columnist for The New York Times, delve into hot-button issues during a politically charged time. They discuss the emotional complexities surrounding the January 6 pardons and the impact on public trust in the justice system. Giboney highlights immigration challenges and the plight of Afghan refugees, while French critiques U.S. foreign policy regarding Israel and Hamas, reflecting on unmet campaign promises. Their insights reveal the intricate ties between faith, politics, and societal responsibilities.

The Bulletin welcomes Ross Douthat for a conversation with Mike Cosper about what makes religion worth pursuing in a hypersecularized world.Find us on Youtube.What makes religion worth pursuing in a hypersecularized world? New York Times columnist Ross Douthat explores this question in his forthcoming book Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious. Today, Mike Cosper sits down with Douthat for a conversation about the elemental human impulse toward belief and why, especially in this modern age, it’s worth pausing to consider it. GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN: We want to hear your COVID-19 reflection. Send a written response or voice memo here. Grab some Bulletin merch! Find us on YouTube. Rate and review the show in your podcast app of choice. ABOUT THE GUEST: Ross Douthat has been a New York Times opinion columnist since April 2009. Previously, he was a senior editor at The Atlantic. He is the author of the forthcoming Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious. He is the film critic for National Review.ABOUT THE BULLETIN:The Bulletin is a weekly (and sometimes more!) current events show from Christianity Today hosted and moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today’s editor in chief) and Mike Cosper (director, CT Media). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Wear, the founder of the Center for Christianity and Public Life, shares insights on the week’s cabinet hearings and the Israel-Gaza ceasefire negotiations. Kutter Callaway discusses the impact of California wildfires on communities, highlighting the emotional trauma of evacuations. Katharine Hayhoe emphasizes the urgent need for climate awareness, addressing 'weather whiplash' and the moral responsibility of stewardship within the Christian community. Together, they explore how faith intersects with current environmental and political crises.

Christine Rosen, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a keen observer of culture and technology, dives into the pressing issues of our digital age. She discusses her new book on the 'extinction of experience' and how technology has diminished real-world interactions. Rosen critiques social media's impact on youth, urging a balance between tech use and healthy development. She also emphasizes the importance of embracing boredom to foster creativity and warns against the real-world conflicts bred by excessive online engagement.

Daniel Silliman, a news editor at Christianity Today and an author, reflects on Jimmy Carter's complex legacy and the polarized responses to his presidency. Harvest Prude shares insights into current congressional dynamics and the implications of political pardons in a divisive climate. Frances Haugen, the whistleblower who exposed Facebook, and Renée DiResta discuss Meta's controversial end to fact-checking, raising alarms about misinformation's rise and the need for community engagement to navigate this new digital landscape.

Charlie Sykes, an influential political commentator and former radio host, joins Mike Cosper to reflect on the January 6 Capitol attack's lasting impact on American democracy. They discuss the fracturing of conservatism, the role of misinformation, and the moral dilemmas of acknowledging truths about that day. Sykes shares insights into the emotional toll on principled conservatives within the GOP and the dangers of politicized violence. They also dive into the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its ethical implications for society.

Hosts reflect on their 2024 predictions, revealing unexpected truths and surprises. They dive into the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and how anti-Semitism is rising amidst political changes. The exhaustion from constant media coverage is discussed, highlighting its effects on public engagement. Furthermore, they tackle the implications of AI and technology on faith, urging a spiritual Reformation centered on ethical concerns. The talk wraps up with heartfelt reflections on friendship and commitments for the New Year.

Delve into the heartfelt essence of Christmas through poetry, scripture readings, and prayers celebrating Christ's birth. Explore the profound mystery of the incarnation, where the divine becomes human amidst suffering. Experience the awe of the shepherds as they receive the angelic announcement of Jesus' arrival, emphasizing joy and hope. The discussion beautifully intertwines love and the humble beginnings of the nativity story, inviting listeners to reflect on redemption and the spirit of the season.

Joining the discussion are Paul D. Miller, a political expert and former White House staffer, Nicole Martin, chief impact officer at Christianity Today, and Adam Kinzinger, a political commentator and former Congressman. They dive into the assassination of a Russian general, highlighting the contrast between patriotism and nationalism. Nicole sheds light on the rising antisemitism in Canada, while Adam brings insights on UFO sightings, pondering the impact of misinformation in today's media landscape. It's a riveting exploration of current events and their implications.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Marlo Slayback, a Syrian-American Christian and director at the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, reflects on the challenges Christians face under oppressive regimes. She shares personal stories that illuminate the rich heritage and complex identities of Syrian Christians. Robert Nicholson, editor at Providence magazine, delves into the broader regional dynamics affecting religious minorities. Together, they explore hope amidst uncertainty, the intricate relationships between communities, and the ongoing struggle for survival and cultural identity in a turbulent landscape.