Confronting Christianity with Rebecca McLaughlin

Mike Kruger, President of Reformed Theological Seminary and a leading scholar in New Testament studies, joins the discussion on the reliability of the New Testament. He delves into how early Gospel accounts were written during the lifetime of Jesus' followers, reinforcing their authenticity. Kruger counters skepticism about textual variations, emphasizing the preservation of core messages. He also highlights unique aspects of Jesus’ character and teachings, inviting listeners to explore the depths of the Gospel narratives.

Rebecca and Dr. Christy Thornton explore Christian unity and diversity as they tackle key theological topics, including the Lord's Supper and baptism, examining what Christians agree on and where denominational differences lie. Listen into the discussions on important terms like sacraments and ordinances, and discover how these practices shape Christian tradition. Dr. Thornton shares insights from her newest book "Confessing Christ: An Invitation to Baptist Dogmatics."Buy Christy's Book:Confessing Christ: An Invitation to Baptist DogmaticsFollow Christy Thornton:XThe Story of Jesus is designed for churches to use during evangelism and outreach events to help readers understand who Jesus is so they may believe and have life in his name. Pick up a copy wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/plus to learn how you can get 30 percent off with a Crossway plus account.Sign up for weekly emails at RebeccaMcLaughlin.org/SubscribeFollow Confronting Christianity:Instagram | XProduced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Rebecca sits down with Rachel Jones, editor at The Good Book Company and author of The Quiet Time Kickstart: Six Weeks to a Healthy Bible Habit. Drawing inspiration from the Couch to 5K program, Rachel shares how this book was designed to help anyone build a sustainable and meaningful habit of meeting God in His Word. Together, Rebecca and Rachel dive into the real struggles that often hold us back, the joy of encountering Scripture, and practical strategies for keeping Bible reading a part of daily life. Whether you're picking up a Bible for the first time or you’ve been reading it for years, this conversation will inspire and equip you to grow deeper in your faith. Don’t miss it!Buy Rachel's Book:The Quiet Time KickstartFollow Rachel Jones:XThe Story of Jesus is designed for churches to use during evangelism and outreach events to help readers understand who Jesus is so they may believe and have life in his name. Pick up a copy wherever books are sold or visit crossway.org/plus to learn how you can get 30 percent off with a Crossway plus account.Sign up for weekly emails at RebeccaMcLaughlin.org/SubscribeFollow Confronting Christianity:Instagram | XProduced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠

The 6th season of Confronting Christianity is set to launch on January 21st!Sign up for weekly emails at RebeccaMcLaughlin.org/SubscribeFollow Confronting Christianity:Instagram | XProduced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Rebecca and Justine explore questions submitted by our listeners! They explore challenges of infertility, perspectives on the morning-after pill, and how Christians can thoughtfully engage in politics. The discussion also highlights strategies for evangelism, especially within diverse religious contexts, and how to discern primary doctrinal issues.List of Questions AnsweredHow can we effectively and practically share the gospel with Muslim friends, especially if we've known them for a long time and haven't told them about Jesus yet?Is there a way to discuss the Trinity with someone who believes Christians take Tanakh verses out of context?Should Christians get involved in politics?What are some practical ways or resources seasoned believers can use to help new believers discern primary doctrinal issues from secondary or tertiary ones?How do we navigate infertility as a Christian when no one talks about it?Are Christians against the morning after pill/Plan B?What are your thoughts on the Rest Is History podcast, particularly regarding Luther and Jesus?How can we both practically begin spiritual relationships with our unbelieving neighbors and community members?Sign up for weekly emails at RebeccaMcLaughlin.org/SubscribeFollow Confronting Christianity:Instagram | XPurchase Rebecca's Books:Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest ReligionDoes the Bible Affirm Same-Sex Relationships?: Examining 10 Claims about Scripture and Sexuality10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) about ChristianityJesus though the Eyes of Women: How the First Female Disciples Help Us Know and Love the LordNo Greater Love: A Biblical Vision for FriendshipConfronting Jesus: 9 Encounters with the Hero of the GospelsAmazon affiliate links are used where appropriate. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, thank you for supporting!Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠

About the Guest:Kyle Worley is a dedicated pastor, insightful author, and engaging podcaster. Alongside his spiritual commitments and teachings, Kyle is also a foster father, showcasing his passion for nurturing and supporting the next generation. His latest endeavor is his forthcoming book titled "Home with God: Union with Christ," which delves into the profound theological concept of union with Christ. Rebecca McLaughlin: Rebecca McLaughlin is a prominent Christian author and speaker, known for addressing contemporary issues with deep biblical insight. As the host of the Confronting Christianity podcast, she facilitates critical conversations about faith, culture, and theology.Episode Summary: Rebecca and Kyle Worley explore the often overlooked Christian doctrine of Union with Christ and Kyle's forthcoming book, "Home with God." They discuss the transformative power of being united with Christ, the transition from forgiveness to fellowship, and the profound implications for identity, justice, and community.Key Takeaways:The doctrine of union with Christ is a central foundation of Christian salvation, offering believers not just forgiveness but a home with God."Home with God" emphasizes the relational and communal aspects of Christianity, challenging Western individualistic approaches to faith.Christian identity is redefined in Christ, empowering believers to extend genuine hospitality and justice in the world.The radical inclusivity of Christ's invitation allows anyone to join the fellowship with God, transcending cultural, socioeconomic, and personal backgrounds.The gospel's message is not only about being forgiven but also about being invited into everlasting fellowship with the divine.Notable Quotes:"Fellowship is the goal of salvation, and union with Christ showcases that." – Kyle Worley"In Christ Jesus, I am not just the recipient of God's gracious love that forgives. I am a recipient of God's delighting love that beholds." – Kyle Worley"Welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you to the glory of God." – Rebecca McLaughlin referencing biblical scripture"We're born into this world with homeless and homesick hearts. And there are only two ways of being in this world." – Kyle Worley"If you repent and believe and put your trust in Christ, you will be included in Christ." – Rebecca McLaughlinResources:Kyle's Forthcoming Book: Home with God: Union with ChristSam Alberry's Book: One with My Lord: The Life-Changing Reality of Being in Christ.Sign up for weekly emails at RebeccaMcLaughlin.org/SubscribeFollow Confronting Christianity:Instagram | XPurchase Rebecca's Books:Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest ReligionDoes the Bible Affirm Same-Sex Relationships?: Examining 10 Claims about Scripture and Sexuality10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) about ChristianityJesus though the Eyes of Women: How the First Female Disciples Help Us Know and Love the LordNo Greater Love: A Biblical Vision for FriendshipConfronting Jesus: 9 Encounters with the Hero of the GospelsAmazon affiliate links are used where appropriate. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, thank you for supporting!Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Michael Keller, a prominent pastor with a rich background in theology and academia, shares insights from his experiences leading diverse congregations in urban settings. He discusses the evolving perceptions of Christianity, tackling misconceptions about faith amidst social challenges in cities like New York. The conversation dives into themes of identity, unconditional love, and the significance of community diversity in church life. Keller emphasizes the importance of maintaining relationships despite differing beliefs, all while navigating the complexities of modern spiritual conversations.

Rebecca hosts Dr. Sharon Dirckx, a renowned expert in science and theology, to explore the intersection of faith and neuroscience. Dr. Dirckx, author of "Am I Just My Brain?", explores the complex relationship between brain and mind, challenging the notion that consciousness is merely an illusion. The discussion highlights scientific phenomena that suggest we are more than our neurons and explores how the Christian worldview can provide a more comprehensive understanding of human existence.Sign up for weekly emails at RebeccaMcLaughlin.org/SubscribeFollow Confronting Christianity:Instagram | XPurchase Rebecca's Books:Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest ReligionDoes the Bible Affirm Same-Sex Relationships?: Examining 10 Claims about Scripture and Sexuality10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) about ChristianityJesus though the Eyes of Women: How the First Female Disciples Help Us Know and Love the LordNo Greater Love: A Biblical Vision for FriendshipConfronting Jesus: 9 Encounters with the Hero of the GospelsAmazon affiliate links are used where appropriate. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, thank you for supporting!Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Lisa Fields is a renowned Christian apologist, recognized for her significant contributions to the African American community. She is the CEO of Jude 3 Project, which is dedicated to helping Black Christians understand their faith. Lisa is an accomplished documentary producer, known for "Unspoken" and "Juneteenth, Faith and Freedom". She is also the author of "When Faith Disappoints: The Gap between What We Believe and What We Experience".Episode Summary: Rebecca welcomes back Christian apologist Lisa Fields to discuss her new book, "When Faith Disappoints: The Gap Between What We Believe and What We Experience." Lisa shares her journey in founding the Jude 3 Project and addresses the challenges of faith within the African American community. They explore the common struggles around faith, suffering, and identity, and emphasize the importance of wrestling with God through pain and doubt.Key Takeaways:Lisa discusses the core mission of the Jude 3 Project as it relates to empowering Black Christians to understand and articulate their faith.The episode tackles the provocative question of whether Christianity is a "white man's religion" and explores its implications in the African American context.Lisa's new book, "When Faith Disappoints", addresses the intersection of pain and faith, offering solace and guidance through personal and theological insights.The conversation highlights the significance of grappling with personal disappointments in God and the pivotal role of vulnerability and authenticity in spiritual dialogue.The prosperity gospel is critiqued, emphasizing the biblical perspective of suffering and God's presence in the midst of trials.Notable Quotes:"One of the things that I love about the gospel is the incarnational nature of it." - Lisa Fields"Lay all your cards on the table before God, even if you're like, am I talking to an imaginary person?" - Lisa FieldsResources:Jude 3 Project: jude3project.orgLisa Fields' book: "When Faith Disappoints: The Gap between What We Believe and What We Experience"Follow Lisa on Instagram and XSign up for weekly emails at RebeccaMcLaughlin.org/SubscribeFollow Confronting Christianity:Instagram | XPurchase Rebecca's Books:Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest ReligionDoes the Bible Affirm Same-Sex Relationships?: Examining 10 Claims about Scripture and Sexuality10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) about ChristianityJesus though the Eyes of Women: How the First Female Disciples Help Us Know and Love the LordNo Greater Love: A Biblical Vision for FriendshipConfronting Jesus: 9 Encounters with the Hero of the GospelsAmazon affiliate links are used where appropriate. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, thank you for supporting!Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Glenn Scrivener is a prominent pastor and communicator based in Eastbourne, UK, known for his dynamic approach to evangelism. Having lived in England for decades after growing up in Australia, Glen uses his cross-cultural experiences to enrich his ministry efforts. He is deeply involved in digital outreach through his organization, Speak Life, which offers resources and insights on sharing the Christian faith in contemporary contexts. Glen is also an accomplished author, with his latest book being "How to Speak Life: Sharing Your Faith in 3, 2, 1."Episode Summary:Rebecca and Glen Scrivener discuess the art of evangelism, using Jesus' parable of the sower as a guiding framework. Explore how Christians can share their faith effectively, embracing the joy of scattered seeds while surrendering results to God.Key Takeaways:Evangelism is about sowing seeds of faith and allowing God's word to work, not forcing interactions or analyzing potential.The Parable of the Sower serves as a foundational model for understanding evangelistic success and its variable outcomes.People today are increasingly seeking community and spiritual truth, offering a ripe opportunity for sharing the gospel in both structured and spontaneous settings.True discipleship involves embracing the messy, complex journeys of individuals as they explore faith, requiring patience and understanding.Evangelism and discipleship often overlap; providing spiritual care for non-Christians and fostering ongoing gospel engagement for believers.Notable Quotes:"What grips your heart wags your tongue." - Australian Saying"The ministry of evangelism is not about battering down doors but sowing the seed." - Glen Scrivener"Evangelism is pastoring non Christians and pastoral care is evangelizing Christians." - Glen ScrivenerResources:Follow Glen on Instagram and XSign up for weekly emails at RebeccaMcLaughlin.org/SubscribeFollow Confronting Christianity:Instagram | XPurchase Rebecca's Books:Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest ReligionDoes the Bible Affirm Same-Sex Relationships?: Examining 10 Claims about Scripture and Sexuality10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) about ChristianityJesus though the Eyes of Women: How the First Female Disciples Help Us Know and Love the LordNo Greater Love: A Biblical Vision for FriendshipConfronting Jesus: 9 Encounters with the Hero of the GospelsAmazon affiliate links are used where appropriate. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, thank you for supporting!Produced by ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠