Just and Sinner Podcast

Discover the art of debate as the host explores essential principles for effective argumentation. Learn about the rhetorical triangle of logos, pathos, and ethos, and the importance of timing in persuasion. Delve into common logical fallacies like whataboutism and ad hominem, along with the significance of defining terms and distinguishing facts from values. Four levels of disagreement are introduced, encouraging listeners to address foundational assumptions for meaningful discussions. Join for insights that elevate your debating skills!

Delve into the complexities of divine providence and its role in redemption. Discover how human freedom intertwines with God's action throughout history. Explore the limits of our understanding and the significance of the incarnation as the central point in God's plan. Engage with the concept of miracles versus natural laws, and learn how God sustains existence while allowing human choices. The discussion also touches on grace, secondary causes like nature and angels, and the ultimate purpose of history leading to Christ’s return.

Dive into the intriguing world of John Duns Scotus, a pivotal figure in medieval thought. Explore how his ideas predate modern secularism and challenge traditional narratives about his influence. Discover the tension between reason and mysticism in 14th-century theology, and understand Scotus's revolutionary concepts like univocity and hexeity. Delve into his arguments for God's existence, his views on divine will, and their implications for morality. Finally, learn about Scotus's lasting impact on thinkers, shaping the landscape of philosophy and theology.

Explore the intriguing doctrine of predestination and its various debates, including whether humans can redeem themselves after the fall. Discover how God’s law reveals sin, leading to the necessity of external rescue. Delve into complex questions about the nature of grace, mercy, and God's plan for redemption. Dr. Jordan Cooper discusses the extent of Christ's work and whether redemption was merely an afterthought. Learn how these theological concepts interact with notions of justice and divine will.

Dr. Robert George, McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence at Princeton, dives into the essence of rights and duties in his work, Seeking Truth and Speaking Truth. He contrasts the idea of God-given rights with utilitarian views and emphasizes the inherent human dignity tied to rights. George discusses the importance of institutional neutrality in education and advocates for pluralism on campuses. He also shares insights on combating ideological monocultures and expresses optimism about emerging programs promoting diverse viewpoints.

Delve into the intriguing life of Leibniz and how his early education shaped his remarkable intellect. Discover the concept of monads—self-contained units that mirror the universe. Unpack his complex relationships with thinkers like Descartes and Spinoza. Explore Leibniz's views on God and the nature of substance, along with his belief in pre-established harmony. Learn why he claimed we live in the 'best of all possible worlds' and how his ideas laid the groundwork for rationalism in German philosophy.

Dive into the profound discussions surrounding the Council of Nicea and its impact on understanding the Trinity. The host explores biblical monotheism and examines scriptural evidence demonstrating the divinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Key topics include divine titles assigned to Jesus, instances of worship directed at him, and the significance of Nicene phrases like 'begotten, not made.' Practical implications of Trinitarian love on Christian life are also discussed, highlighting how believers can engage with the eternal love of the Trinity.

Delve into the depths of sin and grace as original sin and human corruption are dissected. The discussion ranges from the immediate consequences faced by Adam and Eve to the implications of spiritual death. Explore the freedom debate between Pelagius and Augustine, and learn how divine grace plays a critical role in faith. Dr. Cooper tackles the nature of guilt, the realities of hell, and the promise of redemption through Christ. The conversation wraps up with insights on the enduring effects of sin and the hope offered by God's mercy.

Explore the significance of the Council of Nicaea and its relevance today. Discover how early Christian thinkers like Ignatius and Irenaeus shaped Trinitarian theology. Learn about the Arian controversy and Constantine's role in convening the council. Delve into the intricate definition of Christ's nature and its importance for salvation. Unpack misconceptions about Nicaea, particularly concerning the Holy Spirit, and the ongoing debates about divine unity. Engage with thought-provoking Q&A on doctrinal implications and scriptural foundations.

Dive into early Christian history as the host explores significant evidence surrounding infant baptism from the second and third centuries. Discover testimonies from figures like Polycarp and Origen, highlighting the belief in childhood faith and the need for baptism. Learn about cultural practices, such as familial transmission of faith and how converts often credited their parents for their Christian upbringing. Engaging anecdotes detail early church customs and regional influences on baptismal practices, setting the stage for ongoing debates.