Confronting Christianity with Rebecca McLaughlin

Blair Linne is an accomplished author and the author of "Finding My Father: How the Gospel Heals the Pain of Fatherlessness." She serves as a Bible teacher, actress, and spoken word artist, with experience sharing the gospel through various platforms, including prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall. She is the creator of Glo with The Gospel Coalition. Blair resides in Portland with her husband Shai Linne and their three children, continuing her impactful work in teaching and performing across the world.Episode Summary:Rebecca sits down with Blair Linne to explore themes of faith, fatherhood, and the transformative power of the gospel. Blair opens up about her personal journey from growing up in a fatherless household to finding solace and identity through her faith in Christ. She shares intimate details from her life story, revealing how an unexpected turn of events led her to discover her biological father, and more importantly, her spiritual Father.Key Takeaways:The episode underscores the importance of viewing God as the ultimate Father, extending beyond earthly familial deficiencies.Blair emphasizes the critical need for churches to support single mothers and vulnerable populations, promoting the church as a refuge.Think responsibly about societal roles in pro-life debates, infusing compassion and support for women in difficult situations.It offers a message of hope and forgiveness to individuals who have experienced abortion, emphasizing the limitless grace of God.Notable Quotes:"I remember going from a place of so much shame and sorrow to complete joy because I realized for the first time, oh, wow, okay. That's why it's good news." – Blair Linne"No other religion speaks of God as father in a very personal way, like we see in Christianity." – Blair LinneResources:Follow Blair on InstagramSign 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.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Stephen Foster, leader of St Aldates Church in Oxford, dives into the revival of interest in Christianity among young adults in academic settings. With his background in law and theology, he shares how students are increasingly curious about faith despite a secular backdrop. They discuss the remarkable shift from post-Christian to pre-Christian views, highlighting Gen Z's spiritual quests. Foster also reflects on the mental health benefits of church involvement, showcasing the compelling stories of individuals rediscovering fulfillment through faith.

Bri Stensrud is an established author, human dignity advocate, and director of Women of Welcome. With a master's degree in biblical and theological studies from Dallas Theological Seminary, she is dedicated to equipping churches to actively and consistently engage in comprehensive human dignity issues. Bri serves on the board of directors for the National Association of Evangelicals and has penned two insightful books: "Start with the Journey Toward a Confident and Compassionate Immigration Conversation" and the children's book "The Biggest, Best Shining God's Light in the World Around You."Episode Summary:The conversation centers around the complexities of being pro-life in a broader context. Bri shares her transformative journey from traditional pro-life advocacy into a holistic pursuit that sees immigration and refugee care as extensions of the same intrinsic Christian value of life and dignity. She elaborates on the misconceptions that surround the pro-life movement and the importance of engaging with human dignity issues beyond political boundaries. She also touches on the hurdles Christians face in balancing political and scriptural obligations.Key Takeaways:Choosing Proximity: Bri emphasizes the influence of building relationships with people who hold different perspectives to align more closely with biblical teachings on human dignity.Holistic Pro-life Ethic: Embracing a consistent pro-life ethic means advocating not only for the unborn but also for vulnerable groups, such as immigrants and refugees, as equally deserving of care and compassion.Beyond Politics: True compassion rooted in Christianity should transcend political labels, emphasizing a Kingdom mindset that values all individuals as God's image bearers.Community Engagement: Practical involvement in local and global human dignity efforts, like adoption and refugee support, can allow Christians to live out their beliefs more fully and tangibly.Notable Quotes:"Your compassion is not meant to be political.""It's our job as Christians, in partnership with the Holy Spirit, to bring the Kingdom of heaven to earth.""People will not always understand what the love of Christ compels you to do, but you should do it anyway."Resources:Bri's Books: Start with Welcome and The Biggest, Best LightWomen of Welcome: WebsiteSign 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.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Ellie Weiner is a PhD candidate at Cambridge University, specializing in the Old Testament with a particular focus on the Book of Job. Her academic journey began at Gordon College, followed by a double MA at Gordon-Conwell in Old Testament and biblical languages. Known for her impressive feat of memorizing the entire Book of Job in Hebrew, Ellie is keen on exploring the theological and linguistic intricacies of this complex text. Her work is characterized by a joyful engagement with scripture, challenging the stereotypical perceptions of biblical academia.Episode Summary:Rebecca converses with Ellie Weiner, a PhD candidate from Cambridge University notable for memorizing the Book of Job in Hebrew. The episode illuminates Ellie's unique academic journey through Old Testament scholarship, focusing on her vibrant approach to studying the linguistically and theologically complex Book of Job. Ellie and Rebecca further explore the connections between Job and New Testament teachings, offering listeners a rich theological perspective. They discuss the importance of academic integrity in biblical scholarship and the distinctive call to serve in under-resourced areas, emphasizing the humility required to authentically engage with scripture.Key Takeaways:Ellie Weiner's approach to biblical scholarship demonstrates that deep academic study can enhance rather than diminish personal faith.The Book of Job serves as a profound microcosm for the entire biblical narrative, especially in its themes of suffering and divine justice.Ellie's commitment to memorizing Job in Hebrew underscores her dedication to engaging scripture deeply and humbly as a student of God's word.There is an intrinsic value and necessity in grappling with difficult biblical texts to foster a fuller understanding of Christian doctrine and life.Ellie's future aspirations involve teaching in regions with limited theological resources, reflecting an expansive view of how academic biblical study serves the global church.Notable Quotes:"The entire theological substructure of the book is just getting me to Jesus every time.""How do I give myself away until Jesus comes back?""I want God to master me through the scriptures."Resources:Read Ellie's article on memorizing Job: Tyndale HouseSign 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.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Sita Slavov is a professor at George Mason University. She grew up in a Hindu family in Houston, Texas. Over time, she explored different faiths, including Zen Buddhism, and eventually embraced Christianity. She has a PhD in economics from Stanford University and now lives in Virginia with her husband, leading a women's Bible study at her church.Episode Summary:Rebecca talks with Sita Slavov about her spiritual journey from growing up in a Hindu family to embracing Christianity. Sita shares her experiences of exploring various faiths, including her deep engagement with Zen Buddhism and her personal struggles during the pandemic. She opens up about how these challenges led her to rediscover God and ultimately accept Jesus.Key Takeaways:Spiritual Exploration: Sita's journey shows the importance of seeking your own answers to life's big questions and being open to exploring different faiths.Challenges and Growth: Personal struggles, like anxiety and the pandemic, can be turning points that lead to deeper spiritual insights and transformations.Community Support: Engaging with a supportive church community can be crucial in one's faith journey, providing answers, support, and a sense of belonging.Open-Mindedness: It's important to examine evidence with an open mind when exploring faith, as initial skepticism can turn into genuine belief.Notable Quotes:"Faith is really a choice. You don't have to be the same faith as your parents.""Despite dedicating myself to daily meditation and attending rigorous retreats, I struggled to find the answers I sought.""When you fully embrace the gospel, it really is life-changing."Follow:Sita on X.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.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Alan Noble is an Associate Professor of English at Oklahoma Baptist University. He has contributed articles to prestigious publications such as The Atlantic, The Gospel Coalition, First Things, and Christianity Today. He is the author of three books, with his most recent work being "On Getting Out of Bed: The Burden and Gift of Living." His academic interests and writings often explore the intersections of literature, faith, and mental health.Episode Summary:Rebecca interviews Dr. Alan Noble, an Associate Professor of English at Oklahoma Baptist University, about his latest book "On Getting Out of Bed." They discuss the profound connections between faith, mental health, literature, and the human experience. Alan emphasizes that while contemporary culture often encourages introspection to the point of self-absorption, the Christian faith invites individuals to find meaning and purpose beyond themselves.Key Takeaways:Christianity provides a unique explanatory power for suffering, purpose, and human experience.Support from a compassionate community is crucial for those dealing with mental health issues.The Christian faith offers fundamental objective truths that challenge the inward focus encouraged by contemporary culture.Meaning and purpose in life are reaffirmed by the unchanging love and sacrifice of Jesus, providing hope for all circumstances.Notable Quotes:"Anxiety and depression like to tell you to turn inward on yourself and fold in, but what you need is your world to get bigger." - Alan Noble"There's a profound witness in embracing life and living it for God, even in the midst of suffering." - Alan Noble"We can't stop being useful to God because he never made us to be useful in the first place." - Alan NobleFollow: Alan on Instagram.Purchase Alan's new book: On Getting Out of Bed: The Burden and Gift of LivingSign 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.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Quina Aragon is an accomplished author, editor, and spoken word artist based in Orlando, Florida. She lives with her husband and their daughter. Kina has penned the children’s book trilogy—Love Made, Love Gave, and Love Can—which creatively retells biblical scripture through a trinitarian lens of love. Additionally, she is the author of Love Has A Story: 100 Meditations on the Enduring Love of God, a book exploring God's love through scripture and personal reflection. Her work bridges the gap between theological insights and everyday life experiences, engaging readers with powerful meditations and poetry.Rebecca and Quina discuss her latest book, Love Has A Story: 100 Meditations on the Enduring Love of God. Quina shares the personal trials and spiritual insights she gained while writing her book over four years, a period marked by significant life challenges.Follow Quina on her social media for more updates:InstagramYouTubePurchase Quina's book: Love Has A Story: 100 Meditations on the Enduring Love of GodCheck out the children's book trilogy by Quina Aragon: Love Made, Love Gave, and Love CanSign 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.⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this engaging discussion, Daniel Gilman, a PhD candidate at the University of Cambridge, shares his insights on how public speaking played a pivotal role in ending the slave trade, inspired by figures like William Wilberforce. He reflects on his Jewish background and journey to Christian faith while highlighting Wilberforce's determination against immense opposition. Gilman also connects historical advocacy to modern challenges in human trafficking, revealing the ongoing fight for justice and the essence of authentic Christian faith amidst cultural misappropriations.

Sarah Irving-Stonebraker is a distinguished historian and a professor at Australian Catholic University. Specializing in early modern history, particularly the intersections of science and religion, Sarah has authored a new book titled "Priests of History: Stewarding the Past in an Ahistoric Age." Her scholarly journey has seen her transition from atheism to Christianity, influenced by intellectual and historical investigations.Episode Summary:Rebecca reconnects with her long-time friend and academic peer, Sarah Irving-Stonebraker. The conversation starts with Sarah's fascinating journey from atheism to faith, accentuated by her academic study of early modern scientists who were devout Christians. A significant part of their discussion touches on Sarah's latest book, "Priests of History," which explores the importance of engaging with Christian history in meaningful ways.Rebecca and Sarah reminisce about their time at Cambridge, where Sarah began questioning her atheism under the influence of historical studies. Sarah details significant turning points, including her profound experience at an American church, which ultimately led her to embrace Christianity. Finally, the discussion shifts to the essential themes of Sarah's book, highlighting the roles Christians can play in stewarding history meaningfully.Key Takeaways:Rethinking Atheism through History: Sarah's research into early modern scientists who were devout Christians challenged her preconceptions about the incompatibility of science and faith.Intellectual Conversion: Encounters with prominent atheists and deep reflections on moral and ethical underpinnings propelled Sarah towards questioning atheism and exploring Christianity.Profound Spiritual Experience: A powerful experience at a church in the U.S. catalyzed Sarah's acceptance of Christianity, reinforced by reading works like CS Lewis' "Mere Christianity."Importance of Christian History: Sarah's book "Priests of History" emphasizes the significance of engaging with Christian history to ground our faith and understand contemporary issues better.Practical Implications:The conversation extends to reflecting on how Christians today can incorporate historical understanding and spiritual rhythms into their daily lives for a more robust faith experience.Notable Quotes:"I remember sitting in church and having this experience of being invited into and called into a relationship with a God from whom I guess I just realized I had always been running away from." -Sarah Irving-Stonebraker"I think the story that best accounts for the profound and beautiful striving for good and the tremendous brokenness I observed in human history is Christianity." -Sarah Irving-StonebrakerVisit: Sarah's websiteFollow: Sarah on XPre-order: Sarah's new book Priests of History: Stewarding the Past in an Ahistoric AgeSign 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.⁠⁠⁠⁠

Rachel Gilson, a theologian and author specializing in Christian sexual ethics, shares insights on raising children in an LGBT-affirming world. She discusses her book on navigating faith and sexuality, emphasizing the importance of early conversations about these topics. Rachel highlights the challenges Christian parents face amid cultural shifts and offers practical steps for fostering open dialogue. With personal anecdotes, she explores resilience in the face of social rejection and the need for compassionate engagement with diverse beliefs.