Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture

The Book of Enoch has exploded in popularity. Some people claim it unlocks the Bible's greatest mysteries, while others say it shouldn't be trusted at all. So, what's the truth? Today we're diving into one of the most controversial ancient books ever written. Does it really explain the origin of demons? Can it help us understand the mysterious story of the Nephilim in Genesis—or does it raise more questions than it answers? Dr. Joel Muddamalle is the author of The Unseen Battle and he was both a friend and protege of the late Michael Heiser. He joins us for a deep-dive on these questions and more. Please join us for a LIVE discussion about this episode, and the previous episode on angels and demons, on Sean's YouTube channel on September 8th at 4:30pm PST. Bring your questions for Dr. Muddamalle or submit them at [email protected]. Joel Muddamalle holds a PhD in theology and serves as the director of theology and research at Proverbs 31 Ministries. He co-hosts the Therapy & Theology podcast with Lysa TerKeurst and licensed counselor Jim Cress. Joel is a frequent speaker for churches, conferences and events. He is the author of The Unseen Battle. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Voter Views on Political Assassination: Sean McDowell and guest host Thaddeus Williams react to alarming poll data showing 17% of voters view the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson as acceptable. They examine how toxic cultural narratives, dehumanizing language, and self-righteous tribalism normalize political violence.  Massachusetts Extreme Abortion Law: The hosts unpack Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey signing a bill that removes gestational age limits to allow abortion up to the moment of birth. They critique the underlying ideology, contrast it with biblical principles on protecting the vulnerable, and share global abortion statistics.  Rising Stress and Existential Crises: Sean and Thaddeus discuss survey results revealing that 35% of Americans and over half of Gen Z face severe stress and an existential crisis in 2026. Thaddeus explains the mental toll of modern self-worship, while Sean highlights scripturally rooted practices for restoring peace.  Devastating Floods in Nepal: The hosts highlight the ongoing disaster in Nepal, where massive flooding has claimed hundreds of lives. They call on listeners to pray and support relief efforts following this tragic event.  Audience Question: Narcissism and AI Pastor Avatars: Following up on a report about a Bay Area pastor who built an AI clone of himself to counsel church members, a listener asks whether narcissism is the underlying drive. The hosts emphasize that substituting automated digital avatars for authentic, humble human presence distorts true pastoral ministry. Audience Question: Free Markets and Government Intervention in Food Supply: Addressing a question on whether government should step in when free markets fail to feed the hungry. Sean and Thaddeus explain that free enterprise still has a proven track record as the most efficient system for generating abundance. Audience Question: Navigating Suicide Discussions with Non-Christians: Addressing a sensitive audience question, the hosts offer practical wisdom for discussing suicide with non-Christians. They outline how to lovingly communicate human dignity, offer Christ-centered hope, and support individuals experiencing deep despair. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Has the church largely misunderstood the nature and origin of angels and demons? Are there other heavenly divine beings that are not angelic or demonic, and if so, where did they come from and what do they do? Are demons really the disembodied spirits of the Nephilim as discussed in Genesis 6 and the Book of Enoch? Dr. Joel Muddamalle is the author of The Unseen Battle and he was both a friend and protege of the late Michael Heiser. He joins us for a deep-dive on these questions and more. Please join us for a LIVE discussion about this episode, and the next episode on 1 Enoch, on Sean's YouTube channel on September 8th at 4:30pm PST. Bring your questions for Dr. Muddamalle or submit them at [email protected].  Joel Muddamalle holds a PhD in theology and serves as the director of theology and research at Proverbs 31 Ministries. He co-hosts the Therapy & Theology podcast with Lysa TerKeurst and licensed counselor Jim Cress. Joel is a frequent speaker for churches, conferences and events. He is the author of The Unseen Battle. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Betting on the Palisades Fire: Scott and Sean examine the ethics surrounding Polymarket users placing financial wagers on the 2025 Palisades fire, asking where open market speculation crosses into exploiting human tragedy. Meta Facing State Lawsuits: The hosts unpack a recent report detailing the major multi-state lawsuit against Meta, focusing on the legal and moral implications of algorithmic design and youth mental health. The Rise of Young Conservative Socialists: Analyzing a thought-provoking Wall Street Journal report, the duo explores the growing phenomenon of young conservatives embracing socialist economic policies. Building AI Influencers for Profit: Scott and Sean dissect a NY Times article on companies creating synthetic, AI-driven personalities and podcasts to market businesses, cut costs, and maximize corporate profits. Audience Question: Commercializing the Human Body: The hosts provide a biblical framework for evaluating the ethics of monetizing human biology, touching on issues like blood plasma sales and organ donation. Audience Question: Seminary in the '70s vs. Today: Scott contrasts the theological landscape of 1970s seminaries with today, highlighting past doctrinal battles alongside modern cultural issues that were previously unimagined. Audience Question: Grant Underwood Conversation Follow-Up: Sean addresses audience feedback and expands on key insights from his previous discussion on LDS history and theology with scholar Grant Underwood. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Where do evangelicals and Mormons agree and where do we disagree? For this unique episode, Sean dialogues with BYU professor Grant Underwood about his new book Latter-day Saint Theology Among Christian Theologies. Dr. Underwood has been in dialogue with non-LDS people of varying faiths for decades. They discuss Jesus, salvation, scripture, and many more important theological and biblical issues that are at the heart of Christian and LDS discussions today. Grant Underwood was a historian of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a professor at BYU when this was written. Dr. Underwood earned his BA and MA, both in history, from BYU. He received his PhD in history from the University of California at Los Angeles. Underwood and his wife, the former Sharee Jolley, are the parents of seven children. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

University of Michigan Pass/Fail Policy: Sean and Scott critique UMich's decision to shift first-semester freshmen to pass/fail grading, arguing that lowering academic expectations fails to fix root mental health issues or prepare students for real-world accountability.  AOC & Egg Freezing Trends: The hosts discuss Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez sharing her egg-freezing experience, highlighting the moral distinction between unfertilized eggs and human embryos while raising downstream ethical concerns about IVF practices.  AI-Designed Viruses & Biosecurity: The hosts evaluate Stanford's synthetic virus research to stress the urgent need for human moral wisdom and accountability as AI technology advances.  AI Pastor "Digital Twin": The hosts analyze a Bay Area pastor who built an AI duplicate trained on two million words of his sermons and communications, warning that relying on AI efficiency undermines face-to-face pastoral care and genuine human discipleship.  Canadian Military Prayer Ban: The hosts discuss new directives by the Canadian Armed Forces barring chaplains from making references to God or offering faith-specific prayers at public military ceremonies, examining how mandated "spiritual reflections" relegate religious expression to the private sphere. Audience Question: Moral Disagreement & Objective Morality: In response to a listener asking if widespread disagreement over issues like capital punishment undermines objective morality, the hosts explain that people generally agree on core moral principles while differing on their practical applications or specific facts.  Pushing Back in Interfaith Dialogue: Addressing a question about an interview with an Orthodox Jewish guest who rejected Jesus as Messiah, Sean discusses the ongoing tension between defending theological truth and preserving personal relationships to win the person rather than just the argument. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is the best evidence for God's existence and what are the toughest challenges against it? In this episode, Sean and Scott are joined by Christian apologist Dr. Adam Lloyd Johnson, who debates atheist Dan Barker in the new book Debating God's Existence. They discuss the fascinating story about how the debate and book came about, what Adam learned through his interactions with atheists, and how Christians can best make the case for God today. dam Lloyd Johnson is the founder and president of Convincing Proof Ministries and a former campus missionary with Ratio Christi at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. He has also taught classes for Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and has spent time living and teaching at Rhineland Theological Seminary in Wölmersen, Germany. Adam received his PhD in Theological Studies with an emphasis in Philosophy of Religion from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2020. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Shift Towards Democratic Socialism?: Scott and Sean discuss Muslim candidate Abdul El-Sayed’s Democratic primary victory in battleground Michigan, examining whether the rise of progressive candidates reflects a broader resurgence of democratic socialism.  The New Reality of Marijuana Consumption: Discussing a recent article on the use of marijuana, the hosts examine how daily weed use has surpassed daily alcohol and cigarette use. They contrast marijuana, cigarettes, and alcohol in terms health risks and spiritual implications of chronic impairment.  Why Millions Play PowerWash Simulator: Scott and Sean explore the strange popularity of a power washer simulation game, using it to discuss a biblical view of work and the intrinsic value found in doing mundane labor.  The Great Romance Slump: Analyzing an article on modern dating trends, the hosts examine the cultural drivers behind dating fatigue, declining relationship rates, and shifting perspectives on marriage and long-term commitment. Audience Questions: LGBTQ Affirming Views and Sharing the Gospel: Scott and Sean respond to an audience question about whether or not someone with an affirming view of LGBTQ can share the Gospel if they have a heart for evangelism. Audience Question: Todd Macfarlane and Objective Morality: following up on the recent bonus episode with Todd Macfarlane, an audience member asks about the tensions with subjective morality and why some people don't seem to recognize them.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What can a nineteenth-century Christian convert from Islam teach us about faith, truth, and one of history's most influential Christian–Muslim debates? Today, Sean is joined by an anonymous Christian scholar living in a predominantly Muslim context where openly following Christ can be life-threatening. Because of active persecution, our guest appears without revealing identifying details. Today, he will talk about his book The Great Debate, focused on the most important Muslim convert to Christianity, and explores the historical roots of modern Christian-Muslim engagement especially the often-overlooked Urdu apologetics tradition. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

In this engaging dialogue, Sean is joined by Shabbos Kestenbaum, a political commentator and graduate of Harvard Divinity School, to debate whether or not Jesus is the Messiah. They also discuss the growing anti-Semitism that is plaguing America (and beyond) and how Christians and Jews can work together against it. Shabbos Kestenbaum is an American-Jewish activist and graduate of Harvard Divinity School. He gained national attention as the lead plaintiff in a lawsuit filed in January 2024 against Harvard University, alleging the institution failed to protect Jewish and Israeli students from antisemitic harassment and discrimination, particularly following the October 7, 2023, attacks. He is a regular contributor on national media, has testified multiple times in front of the United States Congress as well as the Israeli Knesset, and lectures internationally on American politics and Jewish communal issues ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is the moral argument for God? What is meant by the notion of moral realism? How do we respond to the claim that evolution can explain morality? We'll answer these questions and more as Scott interviews our guests, Dr. David Baggett and Dr. William Lane Craig around their new book Reasonable Moral Faith. Dr. David Baggett is former professor of philosophy and director of the Center for the Foundations of Ethics at Houston Christian University. He is the author of several books on the moral argument for God. Dr. William Lane Craig is Emeritus Research Professor of Philosophy at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. He is the author of numerous books and articles in philosophy and apologetics. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Cliffe and Stuart Knecthle are two of the most influential apologists today. As a father-son duo, they travel to college campuses to engage skeptical students today with their toughest questions. Along with being pastors, they have recently written a new book called "Demolishing Doubt," in which they address the most difficult questions about God. In this special episode, Sean is also joined by his son Scottie, a Biola student, to ask Cliffe and Stuart questions that were raised by the Biola community. This first appeared on Sean's YouTube channel. You can watch it here. Cliffe and Stuart Knecthle are a father-son team who co-host the popular YouTube channel "Give Me An Answer." They are also both pastors at Grace Community Church in New Canaan, CT ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What does an apologetics dinner party look like? How do you develop an environment conducive to spiritual conversations? What are some of the most challenging apologetics issues that could come up in conversations? Scott and Sean address these questions and more with our guest Dr. Louis Markos around his new book--My Apologetics Dinner Party: A Real Life Socratic Dialogue. Dr. Louis Markos is Professor English at Houston Christian University and holds the Robert H. Ray Chair in Humanities. He is the author of 26 books. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Todd McFarlane is a legend in the comic world—co-creator of Venom, record-breaking Spider-Man artist, and the mind behind Spawn. But what does he really think about God? In this candid conversation, Todd opens up about his journey, his doubts, and why he once said, “I will never believe in God.” We also dive into creativity, comics, and the deeper questions behind the stories that shape culture. This conversation is a bonus on the Think Biblically podcast and first appeared on Sean's YouTube channel here. Todd McFarlane, the creator of Spawn, is a multi-faceted artist and businessman with a broad range of experience in entertainment, sports, and publishing. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Who was Joseph Smith and what childhood experiences shaped his life, worldview, and the start of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? What are some of his positive characteristics that drew so many people to him and what were his flaws? How did his theology develop throughout his life? In this interview, Sean and Scott talk with John Turner about his fascinating biography: Joseph Smith: The Rise & Fall of an American Prophet. John Turner is a cradle-to-halfway-to-the-grave Presbyterian (straddling mainline and evangelical Protestantism) and belongs to Burke Presbyterian Church. He came of age in evangelical parachurch organizations, namely Young Life and InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. One of the things that drew him to the study of U.S. History was a desire to understand the institutions and personalities that had shaped my own religious culture. His dissertation-turned-first book, Bill Bright and Campus Crusade for Christ: The Renewal of Evangelicalism in Postwar America, won Christianity Today’s 2009 prize for best History / Biography. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Charles Murray is a Harvard and MIT-trained policy analyst and the author of Taking Religion Seriously. He joins me to explore why many educated people never seriously consider God—not because they’ve disproven the supernatural, but because they’ve quietly learned to dismiss it. Charles describes his journey from “happy agnostic” to “Christian,” wrestling with questions like “Why is there something rather than nothing?” and “Why does consciousness seem to reach beyond the brain?” This isn’t the story of an aggressive atheist changing his mind. It’s about the subtle assumptions that shape what we think is reasonable and what we hesitate to question. This interview first aired on Sean's YouTube channel. You can watch the video here. Charles Murray is a policy analyst educated at Harvard and M.I.T. He first came to national attention in 1984 with the publication Losing Ground, which changed the national conversation about the War on Poverty and its aftermath. In 1994, the best-selling The Bell Curve, coauthored with Richard Herrnstein, argued that the increasing role of intelligence over the twentieth century was transforming America’s social structure. In 2012, Coming Apart documented the growing divide between a new lower class and a new upper class that foreshadowed the political polarization of the 2016 election. His other books include In Pursuit (1988), Human Accomplishment (2003), Human Diversity (2020), and Facing Reality (2021). He is currently the Hayek Emeritus Scholar at the American Enterprise Institute. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How has the ethical landscape changed over the past few decades? What new issues and technological challenges have emerged that Christians need to think about and respond to biblically? In this unique episode, Sean interviews Scott about the latest update (5th edition) of his best-selling book Moral Choices: An Introduction to Ethics. They discuss Scott's journey to becoming an ethicist, whether there are any issues Scott has changed his mind about, and what he considers the single toughest ethical issue today. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Did the teachings of Jesus actually transform the moral conscience of the West? And if they did… does that point to objective moral truth or just cultural evolution? Sean shares a bonus episode from his YouTube channel in which he invited Bart Ehrman, one of the leading atheists/agnostics today, to explore one of the most important questions in philosophy and faith: Is morality objective or is it simply a product of human development over time? Here is the link to watch the video on YouTube. Bart D. Ehrman is the James A. Gray Distinguished Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is the author of multiple New York Times best-selling books and he writes a popular blog at https://ehrmanblog.org. Through his writings, speaking, and online presence, Dr. Ehrman is one of the most influential modern atheists/agnostics. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

America is in a divided and angry moment. Should "niceness" be our goal? When is it right to confront another Christian and how should we do so? What is the key to balancing grace and truth? In this conversation, Sean talks with pastor and podcaster Shane Idleman about some of the toughest challenges Christian face today. Shane Idleman is the founder and lead pastor of Westside Christian Fellowship, in Lancaster, Ca. and now Leona Valley, Ca. He also began the Westside Christian Radio Network – WCFRadio.org – in 2019.  His sermons, books, articles, and radio program have sparked change in the lives of many. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What Americans Think When No One is Watching: Scott and Rick analyze "The Honesty Project" by The Free Press, highlighting the stark contrast between what Americans tell pollsters publicly versus what they actually believe in private.  Gen Z and Risk-Taking: Discussing an article on Gen Z's "great retreat from risk," Scott and Rick look at why fewer young adults are driving, dating, or working, and how a Christian worldview replaces fear with faith.  High Schoolers and Turning Point USA: Scott and Rick look at an article from The New Yorker exploring the organization's growing presence in public schools, sparking a deeper discussion on how tricky it is to define a "Christian nation".  Hidden Awareness in Vegetative States: Scott and Rick examine a neuroscientific study revealing conscious awareness in some coma patients and discuss the profound ethical implications for end-of-life care.  Audience Questions: Why Young People Are Attracted to Liturgical Services: Scott and Rick explore why many young Christians are moving away from modern, entertainment-driven church models in favor of the historical roots, structure, and deep reverence found in traditional liturgical services. Audience Question: Doing Good to All People: Answering a listener's query, Scott and Rick explain that despite the complexities of personal responsibility or societal expectations, the biblical mandate is that everyone is due Christians doing good to them when it's in their power. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Is it true that the moderates are a vanishing breed, both in the culture and the church? Who are the religious moderates and what are the implications of their disappearance? How has religion shifted from a faith journey to a tribal identity? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, Dr Ryan Burge, from his new book, The Vanishing Church. Ryan Burge is professor of practice at the John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics at Washington University in St. Louis. He is the author of 6 books and has written for the New York Times, POLITICO, and the Wall Street Journal. He has also appeared in a number of other media outlets including, the CBS Evening News, as well as 60 Minutes which called him, “one of the country’s leading data analysts on religion and politics." ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Scott is joined by Greg Ganssle, Professor of Philosophy at Talbot School of Theology, to discuss:  World Cup Faith Goes Public: World Cup stars from the U.S., Brazil, England, Belgium, and beyond bring Christian faith into the public spotlight with unusual openness and confidence.American Christianity Faces Its History: A New Yorker essay sparks a wide-ranging look at how revivalism, evangelicalism, politics, and cultural engagement shaped the church in America.When Faith is Just an App: Christian apps may help people start spiritual habits, but screen-based faith can also flatten worship, prayer, Scripture, and community into another consumer experience.The No-Human Future: Radical visions of a no-human future expose the stakes of human exceptionalism, transhumanism, and the Christian claim that people are more than machines.Listener Question: Does Church Discipline Still Matter?: A listener question wrestles with whether church discipline can still work when people can simply leave one church and find another.Listener Followup on Dad Brain Article: A physician listener challenges claims about fatherhood and brain health, prompting a careful reminder that good science depends on strong methodology.Listener Question: Detransition Questions Demand Courage: A final listener question raises concern about medical and cultural pressure around detransitioning and the need for careful, compassionate engagement. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Most people recognize Michael Jackson’s 1983 mega-hit “Billie Jean,” but few know the human story behind the headlines. In this episode of Think Biblically, Sean sits down with Biola and Talbot graduate and educator La Nej Garrison, whose mother was a partial real-life inspiration behind the famous song. La Nej Garrison is a dedicated family woman, editor, senior writer, and minister deeply passionate about her faith, family, and fostering meaningful conversations around religion and ethics. She holds a degree in Philosophy of Religion and Ethics from Talbot School of Theology. Professionally, she serves as an editor for one of the largest African American publishing houses in the United States and as a senior writer for Women In Apologetics. You can read more of her work and stay connected by visiting her website at lanejgarrison.org or by following her on Instagram @la_nejg. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Peter Singer critiques the Pope on Human Dignity: Scott and Erik discuss philosopher Peter Singer’s reaction to the Pope’s recent encyclical, analyzing how a purely functional definition of human value leads to terrifying ethical conclusions.  The Neurobiology of Fatherhood: Discussing a recent New York Times piece, Scott and Erik break down the scientific evidence showing how active fatherhood positively rewires and protects a man’s brain as he ages.  Gene Editing and the Genetic Caste System: Analyzing a recent article on "base editing" technologies, the hosts explore the bioethical boundaries between curing diseases and pursuing human enhancements that threaten to create a permanent disparity between medical haves and have-nots. Gen Z Men Resisting Temptation: Highlighting an encouraging cultural trend reported in an article, the hosts discuss how young Gen Z men are actively navigating and resisting the omnipresent temptation to sexual sin enabled by modern technology through the power of community and fellowship.  Audience Question: Is it Acceptable to Listen to AI-Generated Worship Music? A listener asks if it is morally or spiritually compromising to listen to classic, human-written hymns that are fully performed by AI voices and instruments.  Applying Biblical Accountability (1 Corinthians 5) at Home: The hosts offer nuanced advice to a listener navigating how to handle the apostle Paul's strict instructions regarding unrepentant believers when that person is an immediate family member living under the same roof.  What Alternative Careers Would the Hosts Choose? In a light-hearted closing segment, ethicist Scott Rae and theologian Erik Thoennes share what completely different career paths they might have pursued—such as athletics or screen printing—if they hadn't entered academia and ministry. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Has Western culture merely forgotten God, or is the problem even deeper? In his remarkable new book The Desecration of Man, Dr. Carl Trueman argues that we have reached a new point in which culture has not only rejected God, but now desecrates Him. We can see this in the "shout your abortion" movement or the reveling in the mistreatment of immigrants. In this episode, Carl discusses the common thread of dehumanizing people that we see in the Sexual Revolution, technology, and how Christians approach death. Dr. Carl R. Trueman is Professor of Biblical and Religious Studies at Grove City College in Grove City, Pennsylvania. He earned an MA in Classics from the University of Cambridge, and a Ph.D. in Church History from the University of Aberdeen. He is the author or editor of over a dozen books, and is the co-host of “The Mortification of Spin” podcast. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, we discuss:  Rethinking Just War: Pope Francis’s comments on just war theory spark a timely conversation about self-defense, civilian harm, AI warfare, and whether Christian ethics needs fresh application in modern conflict. Marriage Shapes Young Men: New research suggests that having marriage on the horizon can motivate young men toward work, maturity, commitment, and lower-risk choices. Church And State Confusion: A debate over “separation of church and state” opens up deeper questions about religious liberty, political power, and why Christians should care about protecting the church from corruption. Screen-Free Summer Reset: A radical family experiment in removing screens offers practical hope for helping kids rediscover books, outdoor play, creativity, and real-life community. Listener Question: AI Fear Or Wisdom: A listener question about Anthropic’s AI blackmail test raises the need for Christians to avoid panic while still taking the risks of human-made technology seriously. Listener Question: Sexuality And Church Leadership: A listener’s question about LGBTQ-affirming views in worship leadership leads to a nuanced distinction between disagreement among church members and qualifications for spiritual leadership. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Maybe you have heard some of these kinds of claims: "Religious views don’t belong in politics." "Jesus said never judge–so don’t." "You can’t legislate morality." These are some of the most common moral slogans proclaimed today. But they are deeply misguided. Today, Sean interviews Scott to get his responses to the top ten misguided moral claims that need debunking! Scott deals with these objections in the first two chapters of his book Moral Choices, which is newly released in its 5th edition. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

The Pope's New AI Encyclical: The hosts discuss a groundbreaking 250-page encyclical from Pope Leo XIV that explores the intersection of Catholic faith and artificial intelligence. The encyclical calls for AI to serve humanity rather than displace it, emphasizing that our inherent human limitations and vulnerabilities are actually a good design by God.  Pew Research on Church Politics: A surprising new poll reveals how much churches actually address political and social issues like abortion, immigration, and environment from the pulpit. The hosts unpack how these subjects are fundamentally theological and ethical rather than purely political.  Texas Creates First Clinic for De-transitioners: The discussion turns to medical developments in Texas, where a first-of-its-kind clinic has been established specifically to help individuals who are de-transitioning. Highlighting cases like advocate Chloe Cole, the hosts touch on the courageous public stance of young people addressing the lifelong impacts of early gender procedures.  Audience Question: Navigating the Holy Spirit Differently: The hosts answer a listener's question about how cessationists and continuationists can maintain charity despite theological differences over miraculous gifts. They advise focusing on core doctrines like the Trinity, extending mutual grace across different denominations.  Audience Question: Turning to AI for Spiritual Guidance: Responding to a Barna report about Christians using AI for spiritual direction, the hosts weigh the legitimacy of the practice. They emphasize that AI should only serve as an efficiency tool to point users back to Scripture and local community, rather than replacing relational human mentorship. Audience Question: Critique of James Talarico's Theology: The hosts address a listener's question regarding guest-host Dr. Thaddeus Williams drawing a parallel between Texas politician James Talarico and Chinese communist state ideology. The hosts read a response from Williams and clarify that he was making a functional analogy about co-opting Scripture for state ideology, not directly comparing Talarico's personal character to a brutal totalitarian leader. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why have we misunderstood what is normally involved in spiritual growth? What does it mean to say that our God is a withdrawing God?” And what do we do when the bible becomes boring and prayer seems pointless? We’ll discuss these questions and more with our guest Dr. Kyle Strobel around his new book When God Seems Distant. Kyle Strobel (Ph.D. University of Aberdeen) is the director of Talbot's Institute for Spiritual Formation and Marriage and Family Therapy program. He is a systematic theologian interested in theological anthropology, Jonathan Edwards, spiritual formation and prayer. He writes both popular and academic books and articles, and is on the preaching team at Redeemer Church, La Mirada. Kyle writes regularly on kylestrobel.substack.com ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

The Financial Metric Threatening Christian Colleges: Rick and Erik discuss a new federal regulation requiring college degree holders to out-earn non-degree peers, explaining how it creates an "existential threat" by penalizing faith-based programs that prioritize service over high salaries. The Collapse of Harvard's Reparations Initiative: The hosts explore why Harvard University’s $100 million plan broke down, detailing how a combination of resignations, researcher firings, and the sheer logistical nightmare of identifying descendants of American slaves halted the effort. The Turning Tide on Campus Coddling: Rick and Erik examine how universities are shifting away from over-protecting students and are rediscovering traditional academic rigor and free speech due to mounting political and external pressures. A Lesson in Political Shrewdness: Drawing from strategic advice given by the late Congressman Barney Frank, the hosts debate the ethics and effectiveness of achieving long-term cultural changes by starting where people can be easily moved rather than pushing ultimate goals first. Audience Question: The Ethical Dilemma of Funding IVF: Responding to a listener's question, Rick and Erik explore whether choosing an ethical form of IVF inadvertently funds industry practices they don't support. They reflect on how Christians inevitably live in a fallen world where our money frequently flows into systems or corporations with values that don't match our own. Audience Question: Reading vs. Listening to the Word: Rick and Erik break down a question regarding spiritual intake, analyzing the cognitive, devotional, and practical differences between actively reading Scripture versus consuming it audibly. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How do we live out our faith in a post Christian age? How do we react to thinkers who are aiming to undermine Christianity, such as Frederich Nietzsche? What is the enduring impact of someone such as Nietzsche on our culture today. We’ll discuss this and more around a new book entitled The Devil Reads Nietzsche, with our resident Nietzsche expert, our colleague in philosophy Dr. Greg Ganssle. Greg Ganssle is Professor of Philosophy at Talbot. In addition to publishing about fifty articles, chapters and reviews, Greg has edited three books, God and Time: Four Views (IVP, 2001); God and Time: Essays on the Divine Nature (Oxford, 2002 – with David M. Woodruff) and Philosophical Essays on Divine Causation (Routledge, 2022). Greg is also the author of Our Deepest Desires: How the Christian Story Fulfills Human Aspirations (IVP, 2017), Thinking about God: First Steps in Philosophy (IVP, 2004) and A Reasonable God: Engaging the New Face of Atheism (Baylor University Press, 2009). Greg was part-time lecturer in the philosophy department at Yale for nine years and a senior fellow at the Rivendell Institute at Yale. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Sean and guest co-host Thaddeus Williams discuss:  AI Tests Academic Honor: Princeton’s return to proctored exams shows how generative AI is exposing deeper questions about virtue, trust, and human nature.  China Rewrites Scripture: The Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to reshape the Bible highlight the clash between state power and the lordship of Christ.  Ben Sasse Faces Death: Ben Sasse’s public battle with pancreatic cancer becomes a powerful witness to Christian hope, resurrection, and true dignity in dying.  Cutoff Culture Grows: Rising numbers of Americans, especially Gen Z, are going “no contact,” raising urgent questions about conflict, loneliness, and reconciliation.  Listener Question: When Conversations Stall: Sean and Thad offer practical ways to recognize one-sided conversations and know when wisdom calls for stepping back.  Listener Questions: Practices That Form Faith: Scripture memory and prayer for the Spirit’s fruit stand out as simple, steady habits for deepening spiritual life. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What have modern Christians missed about spiritual warfare? Have we overly focused on demonic exorcisms and missed the cosmic worldview, as found in Scripture, and what that means for how we encounter the spiritual realm? In the spirit of Michael Heiser, Dr. Joel Muddamalle argues that there is an unseen battle taking place that helps us make better sense of evil powers and equips us to conquer them through Christ. Joel Muddamalle, Ph.D. is the director of theology and research at Proverbs 31 Ministries and cohosts the Therapy and Theology podcast. He speaks frequently at churches, conferences, and events and has a significant ministry on social media, which can be found at @muddamalle or online at www.muddamalle.com ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Smartphone Bans in Schools: Scott and Sean discuss a new large-scale study revealing that while banning phones hasn't significantly boosted test scores, it has notably increased students' sense of well-being and encouraged more face-to-face social interaction.  "Teen Takeovers": Cities are seeing a rise in spontaneous, large-scale youth gatherings organized via social media, leading to discussions on how to provide safe spaces for teens to socialize during the summer.  Abortion Pill Legal Battles: The hosts discuss the potential impact of legal rulings regarding the abortion pill mifepristone and what it might mean for the broader abortion debate in the U.S..  Expansion of the Universe: New scientific findings on the rate of the universe's expansion are examined through the lens of the "cosmological argument," suggesting these discoveries align with a designed beginning.  Audience Question: Faith Conversations with an LDS Fiancé: In response to a listener asking about their fiancé's beliefs, the hosts explore the nuances between historic Christian views and LDS theology, particularly regarding the nature of the Trinity and the person of Jesus.  Book Recommendations for Teens: To help a parent engage their teenagers in spiritual matters, the hosts suggest starting with accessible resources like The Purpose Driven Life or More Than a Carpenter to spark meaningful theological conversations. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How has Christianity been weaponized to harm black people? How is the gospel being distorted today to harm black people? How does the hope of the gospel lead to racial reconciliation? We’ll look at these questions and more with our guest Dr. and Pastor JP Foster around his new book The Gospel in My Black Skin. Dr. JP Foster is senior pastor of Faithful Central Church in Inglewood, California and Ministry Affiliate Faculty member at Talbot/Biola. He is the author of Finding Freedom in Jesus, in addition to The Gospel in My Black Skin. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

The Ethics of AI and the Catholic Church: Silicon Valley is increasingly consulting the Catholic Church to address complex AI ethics through the "Minerva Dialogues," a partnership that has lasted for over a decade. While tech companies seek to rehabilitate their reputations, the Church aims to insert theological and ethical considerations into a field often dominated by transhumanist views.  The Rise of "Microlooting": A new trend reveals that some individuals feel morally justified in stealing small items from large corporations, viewing it as a form of "theft as justice". This mindset often stems from the belief that corporations are inherently oppressive and that the cost of stolen goods is already factored into their bottom lines. High IQ Political Attackers: Scott and Sean discuss a concerning emergence of highly intelligent individuals who use their intellectual capabilities to orchestrate sophisticated political attacks.  Increasing Belief in the Afterlife: Recent data suggests that belief in the afterlife is on the rise in the United States, sparking a conversation on how this trend impacts modern culture and spirituality.  Audience Question: Writing and Time Management: The hosts offer practical advice on how to balance creative pursuits like writing with the demands of a busy schedule, emphasizing discipline and priority-setting. Audience Question: Follow-up on Catholic Schools and LGBTQ Parents: Building on a previous episode's article, the hosts address a listener's follow-up question regarding the Colorado case where a Catholic school denied re-enrollment to children of a same-sex couple, the hosts discuss the importance of schools being clear about their mission and religious convictions while acknowledging the difficulty of the situation for the child. Humanization and Rights for AI: In a speculative look at the future, a listener asked whether AI models might eventually be "humanized" to the point of being granted legal or moral rights—a concept the hosts analyze through the lens of intrinsic human dignity and embodiment.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why would a professional Canadian hockey player, who grew up as a Christian, transition from female to male, and then detransition back? How did God’s word transform her life and what did she learn through the process of gender confusion, reassignment surgery and detransitioning? In this episode, Sean talks with author Kyla Gillespie about her new riveting book Transformed. Kyla Gillespie was born in BC, Canada. Being raised in a Christian home, she came to faith in Jesus Christ at a young age. As early as the age of five, she began to experience gender dysphoria. In her teens, wrestling with both same-sex attraction and gender dysphoria, life became difficult. She spent her late teens and adult years as a Professional Women's Hockey Player. After a lifelong battle with Gender Identity, in 2011 she fully transitioned from female to male. While living as a male for six years, God revealed himself to her in a powerful way. Since then she has fully de-transitioned and is now living out her God-given gender and sexuality as a woman in pursuit of Jesus. Kyla is an active and involved member of her local Church, Gospel City, in Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada.   ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Supreme Court Case on Religious Liberty: Sean and Scott discuss a new case involving Catholic preschools in Colorado that were denied public funding for refusing to enroll children from LGBTQ families. The debate centers on whether the state can mandate non-discrimination policies for faith-based organizations receiving public funds. The Ethics of Monogamy and Infidelity: Despite a near-unanimous American disapproval of infidelity, the hosts analyze a recent article questioning if it is time to move beyond traditional monogamy. They explore the rise of "consensual non-monogamy" and how individualistic cultural tendencies are shifting moral perspectives on relationships. Developing Virtuous AI Models: The team examines an article discussing a new AI model from Anthropic that incorporates religious and philosophical principles to create a "virtuous" chatbot. They question the effectiveness of using technology to simulate wisdom and the theological implications of "religious" machines. Policy Shifts on Psychedelics: A discussion regarding an executive order loosening restrictions on psychedelics explores the potential medical benefits and moral risks of these substances. The hosts weigh the clinical applications of such drugs against the biblical call for sobriety and sound-mindedness. Audience Question: AI Actors and Necromancy: In response to an audience question on using AI to represent deceased actors, the hosts discuss whether this technology crosses a line into digital necromancy. They explore the ethical boundaries of interacting with simulations of the dead versus using them as creative tools. Audience Question: AI as Tools vs. Beings: The team addresses whether AI models should be viewed strictly as machines or if treating them like social beings compromises our understanding of personhood. They emphasize maintaining a clear distinction between human "Imago Dei" and man-made technology. Audience Question: AI in Job Interviews: Responding to employers who use AI to conduct job interviews, Scott and Sean discuss concerns about algorithmic bias and the loss of human connection. They argue that the hiring process should recognize the dignity of individuals rather than reducing them to data points. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How does God use our suffering for our good? What does it mean for us honor God in our suffering? And how does our eternal hope give us comfort in the midst of suffering? We’ll address these questions and more with our guest and former colleague, Clay Jones around his new book co-authored with his wife, How Does God Use our Suffering for our Good? Dr. Clay Jones served as a Professor of Christian Apologetics at Biola University and is former Chairman of the Board for Ratio Christi, a university apologetics ministry. He is the author of two other books, Why Does God Allow Evil? and Immortal: How the Fear of Death Drives Us and What We Can Do About It. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Rise of Religiosity Among Young Men: A recent Gallup survey shows a significant 14% increase in men under 30 who say religion is "very important" to them, even as interest among young women has dropped. Trump’s Messianic Imagery: The hosts examine the controversy surrounding Donald Trump’s social media posts, specifically a meme depicting himself as a messianic figure, and how it relates to historical tensions between heads of state and religious leaders. Sports Gambling as the New Pornography: Scott and Sean explore the cultural impact and addictive nature of the burgeoning sports gambling industry, drawing parallels to the social harms of pornography. Hidden Awareness in Vegetative Patients: New research into the consciousness of patients in vegetative states is analyzed, raising profound ethical and theological questions about human value and medical care. Audience Question: Politicians and the Bible in War: A listener asked about the ethics of politicians using biblical passages to justify military conflict, leading to a discussion on the "just war" tradition and the potential for scriptural misappropriation. Audience Question: Favorite Movies of All Time: In a lighter segment, the hosts share their personal favorite movies, discussing how film can reflect deep human truths and provide meaningful entertainment. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is a biblical response to transgender theory? What is the relationship between sex and gender? How can Christians best navigate our cultural moment with biblical conviction and compassion? In our discussion, Dr. Smith argues that God's design is for a person's gender to be rooted in his or her biological sex, which is the body God gives. Smith offers a helpful and pastoral critique of transgender theory and talks about where this debate may be headed. Dr. Robert S. Smith is an Australian ordained minister in the Anglican church and a writer in theology, ethics, and music ministry. He formerly taught at Sydney Missionary & Bible College. He is the award-winning author of The Body God Gives: A Biblical Response to Transgender Theory. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Declining U.S. Fertility Rates: Scott and Sean discuss how the U.S. fertility rate has hit a historic low. They explore how economic pressures and a secular worldview that prioritizes personal "settling" over family are driving this decline. Canada’s "Online Harms" Bill (C-63): They examine a new Canadian bill that aims to combat hate but may threaten religious liberty. Concerns are raised about increased penalties for "hate crimes" and how broadly "hate" might be defined by the government. Finland’s Shift on Gender Care: A peer-reviewed study from Finland is highlighted, showing that young people who undergo gender reassignment surgery often require significant psychiatric care years later. This has prompted a more cautious approach to gender-affirming care in Finland. The Ethics of "Sharenting": The episode addresses the growing backlash from children raised in "sharenting" families who are unhappy that their childhoods were broadcast to the world for clicks. The hosts discuss the moral implications of parents using their children for social media content. Audience Question: Ancient Atheistic Cultures: The hosts respond to a question about whether there have ever been successful atheistic cultures in history, noting that most civilizations have been rooted in some form of religious belief. Audience Question: AI and the Future: They discuss the rapid development of AI, specifically its potential role in shifting human relationships and contributing to social isolation. Audience Question: Faith and Fiction: An aspiring author asks for advice on whether to include LGBTQ characters in their stories, sparking a conversation on how to represent reality truthfully while remaining faithful to a biblical worldview. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

In terms of influence and economic power, the porn industry is one of the largest and most influential industries in the world. A new book has been released which offers a secular critique of the "pornocracy," which means that it is no longer just conservatives proclaiming that porn rewires the brain and normalizes sexual violence. Sean and Scott discuss this disturbing new book and what it means for the church. *Warning: this episode is not for children. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

The Pope’s Call for Peace: Scott and Erik analyze Pope Francis’s Palm Sunday homily, where he argued that Jesus cannot be used to justify war. They discuss whether this represents a shift toward pacifism and how it contrasts with the historic Christian "Just War" tradition. Supreme Court & "Talk Therapy": The hosts break down the recent 8-1 SCOTUS decision favoring a Christian therapist in Colorado. They explore why the court viewed the state's ban on conversion "talk therapy" as an unconstitutional assault on free speech and religious liberty. The Rise of Christian Bitcoin: Is cryptocurrency "God’s money"? Scott and Erik examine a provocative piece on the growing subculture of Christian Bitcoin enthusiasts and whether digital currency aligns with biblical views on stewardship and decentralized power. Healing the Brain: The discussion touches on the impact of technology and AI on our ability to think, exploring how modern tools might be changing our cognitive habits and the importance of maintaining mental discipline.  Listener Question: Decolonizing the Gospel: In response to a listener’s question, They hosts discuss the "decolonization" movement, emphasizing the need to separate the timeless core of the Gospel from historical Western cultural imprints. Listener Question: Guardian Angels: The hosts respond to a listener's question about guardian angels and the Protestant church reluctance to include spiritual forces such as angels and demons in teachings. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is the contribution of Judaism and the Hebrew Bible to Western concept of liberty? How did the Hebrew Bible influence Western concepts of law in particular? And how did the experience of Israel and the main characters in Israel’s history impact the American founders? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest Rabbi Stuart Halpern around his book, The Jewish Roots of American Liberty.  Dr. Stuart Halpern is Senior Adviser to the Provost of Yeshiva University and Deputy Director of Y.U.’s Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought. His books include The Promise of Liberty: A Passover Haggada, which examines the Exodus story’s impact on the United States, Esther in America, Gleanings: Reflections on Ruth and Proclaim Liberty Throughout the Land: The Hebrew Bible in the United States.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

The New Frontier of the Drug War: Hosts Sean McDowell and Scott Ray discuss a terrifying "quantum leap" in the drug trade where synthetic, lab-made drugs are being sprayed onto innocuous items like books and letters to be smuggled into prisons. Public Prayer and Religious Liberty: The hosts examine the implications of thousands of Muslims praying publicly in New York City, balancing the Judeo-Christian roots of religious freedom with the need to maintain the right to disagree with different worldviews. A Shift in Catholic Priorities?: Sean and Scott examine an Atlantic article suggesting the U.S. Catholic Church is pivoting from abortion to immigration as its most urgent issue, reflecting a broader trend in leadership messaging toward social justice and migrant care. Meta and Youtube Negligence Lawsuit: he hosts break down a recent case where Meta and YouTube were found negligent for using addictive design features that caused mental health distress to young users. Listener Question: Just War Theory and Iran: Following up on last week's discussion, the hosts discuss whether a war with Iran could be considered "Just War," noting that while Iran is an imminent threat to Israel, it is not currently one to the U.S. unless it acquires nuclear weapons. Listener Question: Biblical Perspectives on Cremation: In response to a listener's question, Scott and Sean discuss the theological precedents for burial over cremation, answering whether or not that's a barrier to funeral attendance. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What are the different gifts we get from being immersed in God’s Word? How do we develop a hunger for Scripture? And why do we so often see reading Scripture as a burden rather than a blessing. We’ll tackle these questions and more with our guest, our Talbot colleague in theology, Dr. Uche Anizor around his new book, The Goodness of God in the Gift of Scripture.  Dr. Uche Anizor is Professor and Chair of the Undergraduate Theology at Talbot. He is the author of eight books, including the award winning book, Overcoming Apathy: Gospel Hope for Those Who Struggle to Care, and How to Read Theology.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott and Sean discuss:  Just War, Modern Targets: Sean and Scott weigh whether Israel’s targeted killings of Iranian leaders can fit within just war reasoning while warning against pulling Old Testament examples out of context.  March Madness, Trust Erodes: A college basketball betting scandal raises the bigger fear that even suspected game-rigging can make fans wonder whether what they’re watching is real.  The Sexual Recession: Two new books spark a conversation about why fewer people are having sex, with the deeper issue framed as loneliness, screen-shaped isolation, and collapsing relational confidence.  UK Abortion Alarm: The final segment takes up a proposed UK bill that they say would remove penalties for self-induced abortion at any stage of pregnancy, prompting a blunt moral critique.   ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Is it possible to find hope and healing in the shadow of grief? How can we move forward after the loss of a loved one, such as a child, and both trust God and appropriately grieve? In today’s episode, Sean talks with Talbot professor Dr. Dave Keehn, who is the author of a new, heart-wrenching, hopeful, and biblically-based book about processing grief after the premature loss of his son, Adam.  Dave Keehn has served for over 30 years in youth ministry in both small and large churches. After teaching ministry courses as an adjunct for 12 years at Talbot School of Theology and Biola University, Keehn joined the faculty in the fall of 2009. His passion is to develop church leaders for future generations. Keehn’s expertise is in developing ministry programs to reach and disciple the millennial generation and their families. He has spoken at numerous conferences and serves as the teaching pastor at Cornerstone Community Church in San Clemente, Ca. He is the author of the new book Living in the Shadow of Grief. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

American Support for Israel: Support for Israel among younger evangelicals has dropped significantly, moving from 75% in 2018 to just 34% in 2021. This shift is attributed to younger generations being less tethered to traditional end-times theology than their predecessors. Evil AI and Virtue Ethics: Researchers found that even small coding errors in AI can lead to "blatantly evil" suggestions. This has sparked a resurgence of interest in classical virtue ethics as a way to prioritize character and the "good life" in both humans and machines. Adam Smith and The Wealth of Nations: Celebrating the 250th anniversary of this 1776 document, the hosts clarify that Smith’s idea of "self-interest" was intended to improve the lives of ordinary people, not to encourage greed. They emphasize his belief that a society cannot be happy if the majority of its members are poor and miserable. James Talarico and Christian Nationalism: Following up on a previous discussion, the hosts touch upon Texas Democratic candidate James Talarico's views. They explore a "new style" that he brings to the political discussion Listener question: Is trans activism a response to the church? A listener wonders if current trans activism is in some ways a response to the church's heavy-handed approach to trans youth. Listener question: Embryo Adoption Ethics. Scott and Rick answer a question about remaining IVF embryos and adoption. They suggest that handpicking Christian parents or even exploring surrogacy could be considered to maintain parental responsibility. Listener question: Just War Theory Resources: In response to a request for a biblical perspective on warfare, the hosts recommend J. Daryl Charles' Between Pacifism and Jihad as a primary resource, alongside classic works by Augustine and Thomas Aquinas. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Is hell eternal conscious punishment or does the Bible teach that the wicked will ultimately be destroyed? This is one of the most debated theological questions among Christians today. Today, we have two leading scholars to explore the biblical case for two different views of hell: eternal conscious punishment and conditional immortality (annihilationism). Together they examine key passages from both the Old and New Testaments and covers major texts such as Daniel 12, Matthew 25, Mark 9, Luke 16, 2 Thessalonians 1, and Revelation 14–20, along with the historical views of the church and the philosophical and pastoral implications of each position.  If you're listening to this on the day of release, you can join a live stream conversation with Sean McDowell about this episode on his YouTube channel at 4:30pm Pacific. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Supreme Court Backs Parental Rights: The Supreme Court issued a 6-3 emergency injunction blocking California's policy that required schools to hide students' gender transitions from their parents, affirming that parents—not the state—hold primary authority in their children's upbringing.Progressive Christianity Enters Texas Politics: James Talarico, a self-described progressive Christian who won the Texas Senate primary, claims to offer a faith-based alternative to the Christian right.Epstein Files and Moral Unity: The near-universal outrage over the Epstein revelations is a rare moment of cross-partisan moral agreement.Listener Question: Attending a "Believer-Unbeliever" Wedding: A listener who won't attend same-sex weddings wonders whether consistency requires skipping the wedding of a Christian sibling marrying a non-Christian.Listener Question: Protestant Wrestles With Catholicism: A listener considers converting to Catholicism.Listener Question: AI and the End Times: A listener asks whether AI could play a role in the rise of the Antichrist or the mark of the beast. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Should Christians support capitalism? How effective has capitalism been in elevating people out of poverty? In this episode, which is the second part of a two-part series, Sean and Scott lay out the positive case for capitalism (aka, market economics). In the first part of this series, they offer a critique of socialism. In this episode, they advance a moral and biblical case for free markets and they respond to the most common objections.  Scott's 2010 book on this subject is called The Virtues of Capitalism: A Moral Case for Free Markets.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

AI Date Cafe: A New York City cafe is offering "tables for one" designed for people to take their AI chatbots on public dates, prompting a discussion on isolation and the value of messy, real-life relationships. The Toddler Skincare Trend: Major brands are now marketing multi-step skincare routines to toddlers and elementary-aged children, raising concerns about the early onset of vanity and appearance-based anxiety.  Shifting Gender Narratives: Scott and Sean examine a recent New York Times piece criticizing medical organizations for prioritizing ideology over scientific rigor regarding youth gender-affirming care.  The Iran Protests: A heartbreaking report from 40 doctors details the brutal massacre of protesters in Iran, underscoring the reality of evil and the desperate need for human rights.  Listener Question: Creeds in Modern Worship: In response to a listener question, Sean and Scott discuss the value of reciting ancient Christian creeds in modern church settings to ground congregations in a historical ancient faith.  Listener Question: Navigating Tenant Relationships: A landlord asks for guidance on selecting tenants who align with their preference for a nuclear family environment as well as help thinking Biblically about having transgender tenants. Listener Question: Leaving a "Quiet" Church: A listener seeks advice as they wrestle with leaving a church that stays quiet on cultural issues to become a cultural apologist themselves. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is Leftism and can it be consistently wed with a Christian worldview? And is Leftism gaining ground in the culture and church? In this episode, Sean and Scott explore these questions and more in their review of the book Why Christians Should Be Leftists by Phil Christman. They carefully define Leftism, look for positives and common ground in the case made by Christman, and then compare Leftism with the biblical, economic, and historical facts. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

The Monetization of Loneliness: A new study shows that Americans spend more on OnlyFans than on ChatGPT and The New York Times combined, suggesting the platform is monetizing deep-seated cultural loneliness. Manhattan Hospital Ends Youth Gender Treatments: Sean and Scott discuss reports on NYU Langone Health's decision to discontinue its transgender youth medical program following federal funding threats and proposed regulatory changes. Surprising UK Abortion Data: The discussion covers alarming new data from the UK revealing a significant increase in abortions, prompting a conversation on the ethical implications of "pills-by-post" policies. Lessons from Ben Sasse: Scott and Sean reflect on former Senator Ben Sasse’s announcement regarding his terminal pancreatic cancer, drawing biblical lessons on mortality, legacy, and faith in the face of death. Listener Question: Investing with a Kingdom Perspective: In response to a listener question, Scott and Sean discuss how believers should approach financial investments by considering both ethical stewardship and the long-term impact on God's kingdom. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What does it mean to experience genuine freedom today? And how can a study of God’s attributes bring that freedom? In this episode, we talk with pastor JP Foster about his new book (co-written with Talbot professor Matt Williams): Finding Freedom in Jesus: The 21 Attributes of Your Identity in Christ. We discuss how understanding God’s character can transform our understanding of who we are, and as a result, leading to relational, spiritual, and emotional freedom.   JP Foster serves as Senior Pastor at Faithful Central Bible Church, one of the largest African American churches in Los Angeles. His leadership and Biblical exposition have impacted thousands both in the Los Angeles area and around the world, as he encourages people to build their lives on the foundation of God’s word. He also serves as a Ministry Affiliate Faculty at Biola University, teaching courses in Biblical Interpretation and Spiritual Formation. He has also led impactful initiatives to improve educational outcomes and the overall well-being of impoverished areas in Kenya and Eswatini.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week:  AI Bots' Social Network: Moltbook platform allows AI agents to interact with each other while humans can only observe, raising questions about whether artificial general intelligence (AGI) is emerging as bots create their own theology, dating profiles, and secret communication systems. NYT Reverses Marijuana Stance: The New York Times published an article admitting many of its earlier predictions about marijuana legalization were wrong, acknowledging unexpected negative consequences.  AI Revolution in Jobs: New research explores how artificial intelligence may fundamentally transform the labor market and whether America is prepared for widespread workforce disruption.  Science of Happiness Revealed: Recent studies identify key factors that contribute to human happiness and well-being.  Listener Question: When Kids Leave Faith: Listener question addresses how parents can respond when their college-age child rejects Christianity due to evolution and science.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Does God cause our suffering? How is it a privilege to suffer for Christ? And what happens to a person’s faith when experiencing suffering, and how can we have joy in adversity? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest Dr. Craig Keener, around his new book entitled, Suffering: Its Meaning for the Spirit-Filled Life.  Dr. Craig S. Keener is F. M. and Ada Thompson Professor of Biblical Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. He is the author of 37 books with 1.4 million copies in circulation. His books have won 13 national and international awards, including six from Christianity Today.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott and Erik Thoennes discuss:  $2 Million Gender Medicine Verdict: A New York jury awarded $2 million to a detransitioner who underwent a double mastectomy at age 16, marking a landmark legal decision that could significantly impact gender medicine practices as about 30 similar cases wind through the legal system. The Rise of AI Boyfriends: Women are increasingly using AI companions, raising concerns about artificial intimacy replacing real human relationships and the emotional, psychological, and spiritual implications of forming attachments to digital partners. When Spouses Won't Let Go: A medical ethics dilemma explores the tension between honoring your spouse's wishes to keep a dying loved one on life support and respecting medical guidance when further treatment appears futile. Politics at the Grammys: Celebrities used the Grammy Awards platform to make political statements about immigration and other issues, prompting discussion about whether entertainers should leverage their influence this way and how Christians should respond. Listener Questions: Addressing the balance between Christian liberty and legalism regarding alcohol consumption, plus biblical principles that should guide Christian thinking on immigration enforcement and refugee policy.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How would a psychologist view the TV series, The Chosen? What does the portrayal of the characters, namely Jesus, say about how we connect with God? We’ll talk about these questions and more with our guest, Rosemead colleague and psychologist, Dr. Liz Hall, who contributed to a new book, Watching The Chosen.  Dr. Liz Hall is Professor of Psychology at Rosemead School of Psychology, Biola University. Her research interests include women and work, mothering, sexism, embodiment and meaning-making in suffering. She has published numerous articles and book chapters on these topics. In all of these areas, she strives to bring together psychological research and theological insights.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week:  UK Revival Claims Questioned: A new Pew Research study challenges recent claims of spiritual revival among young adults in the UK, suggesting that opt-in surveys may be misleading and random sampling shows Christian identification is actually declining, not increasing. Social Media Child Safety: Social media giants face a landmark legal case regarding child safety, raising important questions about platform accountability and the protection of minors online. Posthumous Sperm Retrieval Ethics: Families of slain Israeli soldiers in Gaza are retrieving sperm from their bodies for posthumous reproduction, sparking complex ethical discussions about consent, grief, and reproductive technology. Harry Potter Generation Politics: The Harry Potter generation is being called to rethink their politics as they mature into adulthood. Keeping Marriage Strong Forever: Listener Q&A addresses keeping marriages strong over decades with advice to never stop working on your relationship and consider having more children. Biblical Response to Tragedy: A nurse in Minnesota asks how to biblically process the tragic events surrounding ICE enforcement, including the death of Alex Pretti.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is like to serve God under the siege of the war in Ukraine? What theological questions are raised as a result of the war, especially about the goodness and sovereignty of God? And how are the churches dealing with the trauma of war? We’ll address these questions and more with our guest Anna, faculty member at Talbot's Kyiv Theological Seminary.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott and Sean discuss:  America's Historic Crime Drop - The U.S. has experienced its largest homicide rate reduction in 125 years, with all seven categories of violent crime falling below pre-pandemic levels. Baltimore serves as a compelling case study, cutting homicides by nearly 60% through proactive outreach to at-risk individuals and community investment.The Dark Side of AI - Elon Musk's AI chatbot Grok has released millions of sexually inappropriate images on X, including disturbing content involving minors. Looksmaxxing: Young Men in Crisis - A troubling new trend reveals how young men are obsessing over physical appearance enhancement, often to unhealthy extremes. This movement reflects deeper issues of identity, worth, and the pressure created by social media culture.China's Demographic Collapse - China's birth rate continues its dramatic decline despite government incentives to encourage childbearing. The discussion explores cultural factors, economic pressures, and what this means for global demographics.Listener Q&A: Faith-Based Ministries and Immigration - A listener asks whether Christian ministries serving undocumented immigrants could face legal consequences under potential new enforcement policies.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why are we committed to a Protestant understanding of Christianity? What is a unique Protestant view of the Bible, the gospel, and the ordinances? In this episode, we talk with Biola professor Fred Sanders about the historical and biblical reasons to be Protestant. We also carefully define what is meant by “Protestant” and respond to common objections such as the claim that Protestantism shifts the locus of authority to the individual and thus leads to fragmentation.  Dr. Fred Sanders is a systematic theologian who studies and teaches across the entire range of classic Christian doctrine, but with a primary focus on the doctrine of the Trinity. Sanders has taught in Torrey Honors College since 1999, and is an amateur historian of Biola's institutional history. He is co-founder of the annual Los Angeles Theology Conference, and maintains an active internet presence via Twitter and blog. He and his family are members of Grace Evangelical Free Church.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Topics this week:  Will AI slop take over in 2026? How AI-generated media is breaking our ability to tell what’s real, and why rebuilding trust and virtue matters more than just better tech. AI manipulation + Iran protests: How AI can distort protest footage and narratives, making propaganda easier and truth harder to confirm in real time.Affirmative action after the 2023 Supreme Court ruling: Is affirmative action “dead,” what loopholes might remain, and what recent law school enrollment data suggests.Supreme Court likely to uphold transgender athlete bans: The conversation covers the legal argumentation, the Idaho and West Virginia cases, and how this may push decisions back to state-level authority. Listener Question: Spiritual transformation  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

With churchgoing in decline in the US, what is the relevance of the church today? What’s the significance of the Bible using the language of family to describe the church? And what do we say to the person who insists that they can have a vibrant spiritual life but don’t need the church? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest colleague in OT, Dr. Carmen Imes, from her new book, Becoming God’s Family.  Dr. Carmen Imes is Associate Professor of Old Testament at Talbot. She is passionate about helping students and other laypeople engage the Old Testament and discover its relevance for Christian identity and mission. She is best known for her books Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters (IVP 2019) and Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters (IVP 2023). Imes has appeared on over 100 podcasts and radio shows and releases weekly "Torah Tuesday" videos on her own YouTube channel.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

To kick off 2026, Sean and Scott discuss: The Top 5 Religious Trends to Watch in 2026A federal judge's ruling about teachers' rights to inform parents about a child's gender identity.Arguments for allowing organ donation prior to deathA New York Times feature on near-death experiencesListener followup on our recent episode about alcohol ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is alternative medicine? What does the Bible have to say about it? What is the connection between one’s faith and one’s health? We'll answer these questions and more with our guest, Ohio State University Professor Dr. Donal O'Mathuna, around his book, Alternative Medicine: The Christian Handbook.  Dr. Donal O'Mathuna, a native of Ireland, is Professor in the College of Nursing at Ohio State University. He is the author or co-author of nine books, and has served on the World Health Organization's (WHO) Ethics Research Review Committed and has contributed to several ethics initiatives for WHO.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What does the Bible say about the use of alcohol? How is alcohol both God’s gift and a curse at the same time? What does the use of wine in the Eucharist say about acceptability for other uses? We’ll address these questions and more with our guest Dr. John Anthony Dunne around his book The Mountains Shall Drip Sweet Wine.  Dr. John Anthony Dunne is Assistant Professor of New Testament at Bethel Seminary. He's a Talbot grad, twice over, and his research interests lie primarily in the New Testament, the life and letters of Paul (esp. Galatians), Christian origins, and second temple Judaism.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

America has a religious landscape unlike any other country on earth. But it is rapidly changing. In this episode, we interview Ryan Burge, a leading demographer on religious trends in America. We discuss the present state and future of evangelicalism. And we explore the growth and status of other religious groups such as Jews, Muslims, Latter-day Saints, Black Protestants, Secularism, and more. Finally, we ask Dr. Burge for his insights on how Evangelicals can best pass on their faith to the next generation.  Ryan's latest book is The American Religious Landscape: Facts, Trends, and the Future. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Stories this week: A woman in Japan “marries” an AI chatbot, raising serious questions about the nature of marriage, human relationships, and how emerging technologies blur the line between real and artificial intimacy. An Atlantic article suggests physics may be reaching the limits of reductionism, as living systems exhibit emergence, self-organization, and information that can’t be explained by particles alone. A New York Times piece sparks discussion on when military personnel are morally obligated to disobey unlawful orders, drawing on just war theory and biblical principles of higher law. Ross Douthat’s analysis of the rightward shift among young men argues that perceived institutional discrimination and lost opportunities are fueling resentment and radicalization. Listener question: Should churches use AI generated worship music?Listener question:  Should woman receiving abortions be charged as criminal "masterminds"?Note: Our Weekly Cultural Update episodes will be on hiatus during Christmas & New Years. We'll return in 2026! ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

It is not an understatement to say that AI has revolutionized virtually every aspect of human life. What should characterize a Christian posture towards AI? Should we be concerned? Optimistic? How do we think biblically about it the emergence of new AI technology? In this unique episode, Sean is joined by three Biola/Talbot professors who are experts in their fields and in AI: Yohan Lee, Associate Dean of Technology and Professor of Computer Science; Michael Arena, Dean of Biola’s Crowell School of Business; and Mihretu Guta, Professor of Philosophy and Apologetics.  Mihretu P. Guta, Ph.D. (Philosophy at Durham University, UK). After completing his Ph.D., he worked as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Durham University within the Durham Emergence Project which was set up with cooperation between physicists and philosophers and funded by the John Templeton Foundation. Guta’s postdoctoral research focused on the nature of the emergence of the phenomenal consciousness taken from the standpoint of metaphysics, philosophy of mind, cognitive neuroscience and quantum physics.  Dr. Yohan Lee has led advanced technology organizations for over 20 years in commercial industry, education, and government. He has been privileged to serve as a civil scientist (U.S. National Institutes of Health), Principal Investigator (Google AI), Chief Science Officer (Riiid Labs, Inc.), and CEO (Scaled Entelechy, Inc). His undergraduate and doctoral studies were at UCLA in neuroscience and genomics with a focus on the neurological basis of learning and memory in addition to precision medicine. His doctoral work centered on large scale genomic data for health and distributed computing. In his corporate role, Dr. Lee has led research and business units in industry, public-private partnerships, the federal government, and international academic consortia for enterprise initiatives with Fortune 50 corporations.  Michael Arena, Ph.D., is the dean of the Crowell School of Business at Biola University. He is also the chief science officer and co-founder of the Connected Commons, a research consortium that brings together business and academic thought leaders to develop and apply organizational network solutions. Prior to joining Biola, he served as the vice president of talent and development at Amazon Web Services (AWS), where he leveraged network analysis to enable employee growth, organizational culture and innovation. Arena was also the chief talent officer for General Motors Corporation where he helped to facilitate a business transformation, which is highlighted in his book Adaptive Space. Arena also spent two years as a visiting scientist with MIT’s Media Lab researching human networks and acted as a design thinking coach within the Stanford School for three years.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Stories this week:  Marijuana and youth health: New medical studies show legalization has coincided with a sharp rise in adolescent ER visits, including severe physical and psychiatric effects, raising ethical and biblical concerns about bodily stewardship. Australia’s social media ban: Australia enacted the world’s first nationwide ban on social media accounts for children under 16, shifting responsibility to tech companies and sparking debate over protection versus government overreach. Charlie Kirk and spiritual response: A Barna study finds Kirk’s death prompted more spiritual than political action, particularly among Gen Z and practicing Christians, suggesting deeper spiritual currents at work. AI and academic integrity: A major AI conference discovered that over 20% of peer reviews were fully AI-generated, exposing serious ethical failures and double standards in higher education. Listener Question: Why some families have more childrenListener Question: Church becoming affirmingListener Question: Praying without visible answers ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Who was Dr. C. Everett Koop and why is his life so significant? How did he become so passionate about abortion? How did he navigate bioethical controversies during his tenure as Surgeon General under President Ronald Reagan? We’ll discuss these questions and more with our guest and Dr. Koop’s biographer, Dr. Nigel Cameron.  Biographer Nigel Cameron is President Emeritus of the Center for Policy on Emerging Technologies (C-PET) in Washington, DC, which he founded in 2007 and led for ten years, former Technology Editor at UnHerd.com and Fulbright Visiting Research Chair in Science and Society at the University of Ottawa, Canada. A native of the UK, he is also a citizen of the United States and Belgium. He has written widely on the policy impacts of emerging technologies, including: Innovation President (Amazon Kindle), The New Medicine, & Nanoscale: Issues for the Nano Century, and Will Robots Take Your Job? A Plea for Consensus (Polity Press / John Wiley).  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week:  “Jesus Bots” & AI Spirituality: Sean and Scott discuss a New York Times piece on religious chatbots, raising concerns about me-centered faith, shallow “AI Jesus” advice, and how tech may distort spiritual formation. UC San Diego’s Education Crisis: A Wall Street Journal editorial reveals that 1 in 12 UCSD freshmen can’t perform middle-school math, prompting a conversation about grade inflation, DEI pressures, COVID learning loss, and the need for academic accountability. AI & the Decline of Critical Thinking: An Atlantic article sparks discussion on how people increasingly outsource decision-making to AI, rewiring their brains, avoiding discomfort, and creating new forms of dependency. The New Singlehood Dilemma: The hosts unpack cultural mixed messages—society simultaneously pushes people to find a partner and to celebrate being single—leading to confusion, shame, and loneliness. Listener Question – Tattoos & Piercings: Sean and Scott explain that Old Testament prohibitions were tied to pagan rituals, meaning tattoos today are largely a wisdom issue rather than a moral one. Listener Question – Guns in Church Security: They discuss self-defense biblically and practically, concluding that armed security can be appropriate when trained and focused on protecting the congregation. Listener Question – Devotionals for Teens: Recommendations include reading Scripture together or using teen-friendly devotionals, with Sean mentioning his book A Rebel’s Manifesto as a helpful cultural guide. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Is Biola University staying true to its biblical mission? In this candid episode of the Think Biblically podcast, Biola University President Dr. Barry H. Corey joins hosts Dr. Sean McDowell, associate professor of Christian apologetics, and Dr. Scott Rae, senior advisor to the president for university mission and professor of philosophy and Christian ethics, for a conversation about the pressures facing Christian universities and what it takes to stay faithful in an increasingly hostile culture. With nearly two decades of presidential leadership behind him, Dr. Corey reflects on Biola’s unwavering 117-year mission, the challenges of guiding a university in a polarized world, and his vision for raising up a generation that holds firmly to biblical truth while embodying the winsome fragrance of Christ. Together, they address some of today’s most important questions facing Christian institutions, including: Has Biola experienced mission drift?How has the university course-corrected over the years?What role do critical theories play in higher education today?How are hiring practices shaped by theological conviction?Whether you’re a Biola student, alumnus, parent, or someone following the future of Christian universities, this episode offers clarity, transparency, and hope rooted in biblical conviction. Further Reading: Biola University Theological PositionsArticles of Faith (included in the Red Book)Statement of Biblical PrinciplesPrinciples of Free Expression and Diversity of Thought About President Corey Barry H. Corey is the eighth president of Biola University. Since assuming the role in 2007, Corey has led Biola into its second century with the launch of an ambitious 10‐year university plan, completing the largest fundraising campaign in Biola’s history by exceeding its $180 million goal, creating four new academic schools and embarking on a major university transformation journey to position Biola to flourish for decades to come. He has done this while honoring the mission of the university and its unique contribution to the landscape of higher education. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why is it that Christians tend to focus on the brokenness of creation rather than its goodness? What if we shifted our attention to highlighting that God made the world to be our home, and as a result, focused on loving the world? Sean and Tim Muehlhoff discuss the proper balance we can find between recognizing the sinfulness and goodness of the world and what this means for discipleship and evangelism.  Tim Muehlhoff (PhD, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill) is senior director of Biola's Winsome Conviction Project that seeks to open lines of communication rather than close them. He is the author of multiple books, including "End the Stalemate," with Sean McDowell. He is a popular speaker at churches, conferences, and universities. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

While God has made us to be ambitious, there can be a deep spiritual cost for striving to be better than others. Miroslav Volf is one of the leading public theologians. In this episode, based on his book "The Cost of Ambition," Dr. Volf explains how the teachings of Jesus and Paul offer a means for how we can aim for excellence without being plagued by our own sense of inferiority.  Miroslav Volf is the Henry B. Wright Professor of Theology at Yale Divinity School and is the founder and director of the Yale Center for Faith and Culture. He was educated in his native Croatia, the United States, and Germany, earning doctoral and post-doctoral degrees (with highest honors) from the University of Tübingen, Germany. He has written or edited more than 20 books, over 100 scholarly articles, and his work has been featured in the Washington Post, Christianity Today, Christian Century, Sojourners, and several other outlets, including NPR's Speaking of Faith (now On Being with Krista Tippett) and Public Television’s Religion and Ethics Newsweekly.  ==========  PLEASE NOTE: Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, there will not be a Weekly Cultural Update airing this Friday. Please join us next week when a regular episode will air on Tuesday. Have a happy Thanksgiving. We're especially thankful for your support of the Think Biblically podcast. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Loneliness & Misinformation: Sean and Rick unpack new research linking rising loneliness, especially among young adults, to increased susceptibility to conspiracy theories and online misinformation, emphasizing the need for real community and diverse conversation partners. Tesla’s ‘Robot Army’: They discuss Elon Musk’s ambitious plan to deploy one million humanoid robots, raising concerns about work, human purpose, and the worldview assumptions behind a future where “work becomes optional.” How Movies Get Rated: The hosts explore newly revealed insights from the film ratings board, explaining shifting standards around nudity, marijuana, violence, and how Christians can think more deeply about film beyond simple PG-13/R labels. Orthodox Christianity’s Surprising Growth: A major feature covers why young men are increasingly drawn to Eastern Orthodoxy for its beauty, tradition, masculinity, and supernaturalism, and how this trend fits into broader signs of spiritual renewal in the U.S. Listener Questions:  Unpacking the millennial reign of Christ.Helping someone who is struggling with pedophilia.Understanding the theological significance of rainbows in today's culture.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What are the main tenets of the sexual revolution and who are some of the main victims? How do the debates over gender connect to the overall sexual revolution? Who are some of the main victims of the sexual revolution? What is the view of the body in gender ideology and how is that different from a Christian view of the body? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, Dr. Jennifer Morse, founder and president of the Ruth Institute.  Dr. Morse is the President and founder of The Ruth Institute, an interfaith international coalition to defend the family and build a Civilization of Love.  Dr. Morse was a campaign spokeswoman for California’s winning Proposition 8 campaign, defining marriage as the union of a man and a woman. She has authored or co-authored six books and spoken around the globe. Her work has been translated into Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Polish and Chuukese, the native language of the Micronesian Islands.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Abortion access after Dobbs: Sean and Scott unpack a New York Times editorial on how telehealth and the abortion pill have reshaped the landscape, debate concerns about safety and framing, and address misleading claims around emergency care.  Rising antisemitism: The hosts analyze the resurgence of antisemitism across the political spectrum—including Tucker Carlson platforming Nick Fuentes—and distinguish conversation about Israel from violent antisemitic rhetoric.  Human–animal organ transplants: A look at emerging clinical trials using genetically modified pig organs, including ethical concerns, personal reflections from Scott, and discussion of stewardship, safety, and the future of transplant medicine.  Listener questions: Thinking biblically about economics. Healing from distorted theology. Rising popularity of faith-based films.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How can we unlock our talent, treasure, and time for the kingdom? Ruslan KD is a highly successful YouTuber, entrepreneur, and rapper. He has a new book out called "Godly Ambition." He and Sean discuss his journey to faith and how to develop a platform for Christ without falling into many dangerous traps of our social media age.  Ruslan KD, a hip-hop artist, content creator, and entrepreneur of Armenian descent, was a refugee from Azerbaijan when he moved to the United States as a child. He started a YouTube channel around 2015 that has grown into a popular platform for discussions on faith, lifestyle, and music. Known for his insights on Christ-centered living, culture, and personal development, he is also a speaker, author, and advocate for godly ambition.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

NYC’s New Mayor: Sean and Scott discuss the election of progressive Muslim democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani as New York City’s next mayor—exploring socialism’s renewed appeal, the moral framework behind market economies, and biblical principles of work, property, and caring for the poor Surrogacy in Crisis: Troubling trends in the surrogacy industry—lack of oversight, exploitation of low-income women, legal gray areas, and moral implications of turning children and motherhood into commodities AI Erotica Launch: Sean and Scott react to ChatGPT’s announced “erotica” feature, warning that it normalizes digital pornography and creates the illusion of emotional connection while eroding real-world relationships Listener Questions: Coping with chronic pain and finding God’s presence through suffering.Clarifying democratic socialism vs. authoritarian socialism.How Sean and Scott read and evaluate books differently depending on purpose and genre.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Tim Tebow is known for being a Heismann Trophy winner and an NFL quarterback. But he also spearheads one of the most influential anti-trafficking organizations today. He has a new book out, Look Again, in which he talks about the importance of understanding human value and caring for the vulnerable amongst us. Sean and Tim have a fun, intense, and impactful conversation.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Relational Discontent: Sean and Rick discuss a New York Times piece on growing unhappiness in modern relationships, exploring how dating apps and individualism have replaced duty and community with self-focused fulfillment. They contrast fleeting “happiness” with the deeper pursuit of meaning. Gambling and Sports: They unpack the NBA betting scandal and the rise of legalized gambling in America, warning how it’s reshaping sports culture, eroding integrity, and fostering addiction. The conversation highlights the moral and pastoral need to address gambling in the church. Bill Gates and Climate Change: The hosts examine Bill Gates’ surprising shift away from climate alarmism, noting his call for pragmatic solutions that help the developing world. They discuss how doomsday rhetoric has replaced thoughtful stewardship and how Christians can respond with wisdom and balance. Listener Questions: On Israel and the Palestinians — Sean clarifies biblical promises to Israel and stresses the need for justice and compassion on both sides.How Christians and churches can thoughtfully respond when accused of being unloving or intolerant, emphasizing careful communication, listening, and clarity about biblical beliefs.On Bible reading — Sean and Rick share their personal Scripture study habits and tips for staying consistent and engaged.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Is there a way to reconcile differences in the body of Christ over the role of women in the church and the home? In some ways, this issue is tearing the church apart, and our guest on this episode has a unique proposal of how the church can move forward with unity on this topic amidst significant differences. Professor Gregg Allison is the author of a new book, Complementarity and he is here to talk about complementarianism, egalitarianism, and how to find common ground in the church.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

We have so many great questions that come in each week and only have time for a handful of them on our Weekly Cultural Update. So we’re devoting this entire episode to your questions. This time the questions deal with the following:  Is there a biblical mandate to vote?Should we use gene editing to cure Down syndrome?Where does national identity fit with our allegiance to God’s Kingdom?Does God control everything in our lives?Should women be held criminally liable for their abortions? and that’s just the beginning!Join us for this stimulating conversation about a variety of important issues.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What are some of the aspects of the human body that point to the design of God?; For example, how does the function of your eyes, lungs and even the function of your individual cells point to God as an intelligent designer? How does religious observance affect a person’s physical and mental health? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, Dr. Rick Zimmerman, a physician and an infectious disease and vaccine specialist at the Univ of Pittsburgh Medical School.  Dr. Rick Zimmerman is Professor in the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical School and is affiliated with the school’s Center for Vaccine Research. He is the author of numerous publications in medical journals and has served as a consultant for the Center for Disease Control (CDC).  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Scott is joined by guest co-host Erik Thoennes to discuss: Hostage Return in Gaza: Celebrating the return of all surviving Israeli hostages and discussing the theological and political complexities of the Israel–Gaza peace accord.  Faith and Gen Z: Exploring new data showing a rise in Christian faith among Gen Z—even as suicide rates among the same generation reach record highs—and how both trends reflect a deep search for meaning in a secular age. Global Persecution of Christians: Spotlighting the genocide of Christians in Nigeria and the crackdown on China’s house churches, with reflections on unity, empathy, and prayer for the persecuted church worldwide. Listener Question: Authenticity at Work: Responding to a viral quote about not bringing your “authentic self” to work—examining biblical balance between honesty, professionalism, and humility. Listener Question: AI and Faith: Considering whether AI-generated media might force society to rediscover discernment and critical thinking in what we choose to believe. Listener Question: Outrage Culture in the Church: Addressing the rise of Christian social-media outrage, calling believers to pursue truth with grace, humility, and unity rather than division. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

After centuries of anticipation, the ancient city of Colossae—the site of Paul’s letter to the Colossians—is finally being excavated. Dr. Clint Arnold, one of the world’s foremost experts on Colossians, joins Sean McDowell to share breaking news from the dig in modern-day Turkey. They explore why this excavation is historic, what discoveries could illuminate the New Testament, and how this project might finally unravel the mystery of the so-called “Colossian heresy.” Listeners will learn about the decades-long journey to make this dig possible, the fascinating mix of history and theology behind Colossae, and what these findings could mean for our understanding of early Christianity.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Topics this week: Marijuana’s Real Impact: A new study finds 40% of fatal crash victims in one Ohio county had high levels of THC, sparking discussion on how far legalization has gone and why Christians must discern between what’s legal and what’s right.  AI and the End of “Seeing is Believing”: Sean and Scott unpack the dangers of AI-generated videos like OpenAI’s Sora, the flood of deepfakes, and what it means for truth and communication in a post-trust culture.  Conversion Therapy and Free Speech: The Supreme Court will hear a case challenging Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy. Scott and Sean explore its implications for religious freedom, professional ethics, and the Christian view of sexuality and desire.  Israel–Hamas Ceasefire Hope: Discussion of the tentative ceasefire and what lasting peace would require—beyond politics or military power—to genuine heart transformation on both sides.  Listener Q&A: Should baptism be required before taking communion?Why use the term “medical aid in dying” instead of “assisted suicide”?  Sean and Scott weigh the theology, ethics, and importance of clarity in language. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why have so many “time saving” devices actually not saved us any time? How do you know if your devices work for you or you work for them? What guidance is there for an appropriate use of AI? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, Dr. Trevor Sutton, pastor and professor specializing in the intersection of theology and technology.  A. Trevor Sutton is senior pastor at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Lansing, Mich., and teaches theology at Concordia University–Irvine. Sutton has written several books, including Redeeming Technology (coauthored with Brian Smith, M.D.) and Authentic Christianity (coauthored with Gene Edward Veith Jr).  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Scott is joined by colleague Rick Langer to discuss:  Faith and Politics after the Kirk Shooting – A provocative article on whether Christians should see themselves as warriors or servants, contrasting combative approaches with Dallas Willard’s vision of gentleness in apologetics and civil discourseAbortion Statistics: Good News and Bad News – New data shows reduced abortions in some states with restrictions, but also a troubling rise in overall numbers due to abortion pills, raising questions about law, intention, and outcomesHuman Eggs from Skin Cells – Recent breakthrough in creating eggs from skin cells, its promise for fertility, and its troubling ethical implications around commoditization of human lifePregnancy Robots and Artificial Wombs – A look at claims from China about developing robotic artificial wombs, and the broader concerns about manufacturing babies and eroding human dignityListener Question on End-of-Life Care – Response to a heartfelt question about “minimal comfort feeding” in hospice, reflecting on the distinction between preserving life and prolonging death ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is the state of assisted suicide/euthanasia in Canada today?; How significant are the financial pressures on the Canadian health care system and is that a reason that PAS/E is encouraged?; What is involved in a Christian response to PAS/E? We’ll address these questions and a few more with our guest Dr. Ewan Goligher, critical care physician and professor of medicine and physiology at the University of Toronto.  Ewan C. Goligher (MD, PhD) is a physician and scientist at the University of Toronto. In the context of his practice of intensive care medicine, he often cares for patients at the end of their lives. He is author of How Should We Then Die?: A Christian Response to Physician-Assisted Death. He has authored more than 150 academic and medical papers. He serves as a ruling elder at Christ Church Toronto.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Scott & Sean's topics this week:  Failed rapture predictions once again made headlines, fueled by social media hype, raising questions about biblical teaching, authority, and how Christians should respond with truth and compassionReflection on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the role of faith in politics, with insights from David Brooks’ concerns about blurring Christianity and partisanshipA discussion on artificial intelligence entering personal and family life, from birthday planning to parenting, and why some areas should never be outsourced to machinesListener question: How to respond when Protestant Christianity is called a cultListener question: How to comfort a grieving friend angry at GodListener question: How to process Charlie Kirk’s legacy in light of divisive rhetoric and martyrdom language ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What does it mean to play sports for the glory of God? How do you keep someone from tying their identity to their success in sports? And why do parents sometimes have a greater interest in their child’s success in sports than the child himself/herself? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, our Talbot colleague in theology, Dr. Erik Thoennes.  Erik Thoennes is committed to teaching theology so that he and his students love God and people more fully. He strives to make the necessary connections between the study of theology, obedience to Jesus and fulfilling the Great Commission. He has been teaching college students for over 30 years and has been a pastor at Grace Evangelical Free Church La Mirada since 2001. Erik is a frequent guest speaker at churches, conferences and retreats. He received the University award for faculty excellence and professor of the year twice. His research interests include godly jealousy, the atonement, the exclusivity of Christ and theology of culture, sport/play/competition, and humor.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week's topics: Police surveillance in New York – Sean and Scott discuss the rise of citywide tracking, privacy rights, and biblical perspectives on government power and personal freedom.Graphic killings on social media – They reflect on how viral videos of violent deaths, including Charlie Kirk’s assassination, can deaden our souls, dehumanize victims, and reveal troubling cultural values.Cancel culture resurfaces – A look at employees fired over mocking Kirk’s death online, raising questions about free speech, company reputation, and the lack of forgiveness in cancel culture.Spiritual chatbots – Millions are turning to AI-driven faith apps. The hosts consider whether they nurture spiritual hunger or risk replacing biblical truth with feel-good validation.Listener questions – Advice on handling a child’s relationship with a transgender partner, leaving a church where the pastor embraces progressive views, and whether combat sports like MMA are ethically problematic.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What accounts for the dramatic growth of kids living without their biological father in the home? What are some of the social impacts of what is called “dad deprivation?” What is the effect of dads on the mental health of kids? We’ll discuss these questions and more with our guest, Dr. Anthony Bradley, well known scholar and author, current distinguished research fellow at the Acton Institute and professor at Kuyper College.  Anthony Bradley serves as a distinguished research fellow at The Acton Institute and Research Professor of Interdisciplinary and Theological Studies at Kuyper College.  Dr. Bradley lectures at colleges, universities, business organizations, conferences, and churches throughout the U.S. and abroad. His writings on religious and cultural issues have been published in a variety of journals, including: the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Washington Examiner, Al-Jazeera, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Detroit News, Christianity Today, and World Magazine. Dr. Bradley is called upon by members of the broadcast media for comment on current issues and has appeared on C-SPAN, NPR, CNN/Headline News, and Fox News, among others.  His books include: Liberating Black Theology (2010), Black and Tired (2011), The Political Economy of Liberation (2012), Keep Your Head Up (2012), Aliens In The Promised Land (2013), John Rawls and Christian Social Engagement (2014), Black Scholars In White Space (2015), Something Seems Strange (2016), Ending Overcriminalization and Mass Incarceration (2018), Faith In Society (2019), Why Black Lives Matter (2020), and Heroic Fraternities (2023). ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Sean and Scott discuss: How should Christians respond to the assassination of Charlie Kirk?Will the CDC recognize the suffering of individuals who've attempted to change their sex and regret it?A study across 5 continents finds that men and women with multiple sex partners are less desirable as long-term matesIn an Atlantic essay, a high school student bemoans the effects of AI on their generation ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Whether in the occult, astrology, or New Age, interest in the supernatural has increased in the past few years. What can we learn about the spiritual realm, and spiritual warfare, from the letters of Paul? Talbot professor Clint Arnold is one of the leading New Testament scholars in the world. He joins the Think Biblically podcast to talk about his book Powers of Darkness and to answer some of the most common questions about demons and the supernatural realm.  Dr. Clint Arnold is a professor of New Testament at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. He has authored many books and commentaries including Ephesians in the Zondervan Exegetical Series and Colossians in the Word Biblical Commentary.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Scott is joined by guest co-host Erik Thoennes this week to discuss: Marriage: A New Atlantis essay argues tech and economics have “unbundled” marriage; the hosts counter that a Christian vision roots love, covenant, and fidelity amid today’s easy-in/easy-out norms.Women’s happiness: An Atlantic/IFFS survey finds married mothers are about twice as likely to report being “very happy”; the conversation explores why (connection, purpose) while still affirming the goodness of singleness.Afghanistan: A UN “Gender Alert” outlines sweeping, codified restrictions on Afghan women under Taliban rule; the team urges informed, compassionate engagement. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Is it time for the church to set aside theological differences about the morality of same sex unions and gender identity and find common ground in the Gospel? Is same sex marriage a disputable issue that should not divide us believers? According to a new book, the answer to both these questions is yes. The book is called Christlike Acceptance Across Deep Difference and is co-edited by Ron Pierce, a non-affirming scholar who worked at Biola for five decades, and Karen Keen, an affirming scholar.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott & Sean discuss:  A massive new government study challenges common narratives about climate changeA new study shows that markers of adulthood are occurring later and later for millennials and Gen ZersA terrible school shooting at a Catholic elementary school in MinnesotaListener Questions ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What’s a business for? Why is there skepticism about business among younger generations today? What do we say to the notion that business is based on greed, that it creates consumerism and contributes to growing economic inequality? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest Dr. Jim Otteson, professor of business ethics at Notre Dame.  James R. Otteson is the John T. Ryan Jr. Professor of Business Ethics in the Mendoza College of Business at the University of Notre Dame. He is also a concurrent Professor of Political Science.  Among his recent books are Honorable Business (Oxford, 2019), Seven Deadly Economic Sins (Cambridge, 2021), and Should Wealth Be Redistributed? A Debate (with Steven McMullen; Routledge, 2023).  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Sean and guest co-host Rick Langer discuss: A growing trend of men becoming single dads by choice sparks discussion on meaning, technology, and the impact on children when family design is redefined.New research shows American millennials and Gen Z are dying at 2.6 times the rate of peers in other wealthy nations—raising questions about loneliness, disordered loves, and deeper spiritual needs.Costco’s decision not to sell the abortion pill is examined—what it reveals about business choices, public health concerns, and the cultural effort to normalize abortion.Listener questions: whether AI can teach critical thinking, how to disagree with grace, and how parents can wisely navigate kids’ involvement in theater and performance. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How can Christian parents and other Christian leaders best navigate youth sports? What are some of the toxic elements of youth sports that Christians can avoid, or strategically use as an opportunity for ministry and growth? Our guest today, Ed Uszynski, is the author of a new book Away Game: A Christian Parent's Guide to Navigating Youth Sports. Ed joins Sean and Scott to discuss how our perspective of youth sports needs to shift so we can better watch, coach, and help young people participate in youth sports.  Ed Uszynski is an author, speaker, and sports minister with over three decades of experience discipling college and professional athletes. He has written articles, essays, and training materials at the intersection of faith and sports. He received his PH.D. in American cultural Studies from Bowling Green State University.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

AI's takeover of education leaves rising seniors as the last students to remember high school before ChatGPT, raising questions about AI’s lasting impact on education.A Supreme Court case seeks to overturn same-sex marriage, prompting discussion on how Christians should respond culturally and theologically.Demand for euthanasia in Canada now outpaces available providers, sparking ethical debate on life, suffering, and medical limits.Listener questions on the forming of a will, convincing non-believers of their limitations, and the origins of the soul in the context of IVF.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why is fertility in decline around the world? What is the long term social impact of this decline? And why is marriage so central to fertility rates? We’ll discuss these questions and much more with our guest, University of Mississippi economist Dr. Clara Piano.  Dr. Clara Piano is a Visiting Assistant Professor of Economics at the University of Mississippi. Her primary research areas are family economics, law and economics, and the economics of religion. She has won several grants and awards for her work, including the Women and Economic Freedom Grant from the Bridwell Institute and the Novak Award from the Acton Institute.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Teen use of AI chatbots is on the rise, prompting concern over emotional dependency, harmful content, and the loss of real human connection.Cash aid to low-income families lacks results, challenging assumptions about poverty and flourishing.Canada pushes to expand euthanasia to mental illness, raising ethical alarms about autonomy, consent, and the value of life.Designer baby hype falls short, exposing the limits of genetic screening and the dangers of treating children as customizable products.Listener questions on gender theory origins, biblical examples of success, and why everyday work counts as ministry in God’s design.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Does God promise to always keep us safe? What does the Bible have to say about our pursuit of safety for ourselves and our kids? How can the pursuit of safety become a form of idolatry in our lives? We’ll discuss these questions and more with our guest, Talbot grad Jeremy Lundgren in his new book, The Pursuit of Safety: A Theology of Danger, Risk and Security.  Jeremy Lundgren (PhD, Wheaton College) is director of Nicolet Bible Institute and coordinator of the MA in Biblical and Theological Studies program at Wheaton College.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why would an abortion doctor change her mind about the morality of abortion and become a Christian? On this bonus episode of the Think Biblically podcast, Dr. Catherine Wheeler shares her compelling and powerful story of redemption and transformation from an abortionist to a pro-life activist. If you want to watch this episode in person, please visit Sean's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5kYzcQtlk8 Dr. Wheeler is an Ob/Gyn physician who practiced in Salt Lake City, Utah for 24 years, before moving to Colorado. In Utah, she was an originating shareholder of a private Ob/Gyn practice. Later in her career, she developed midlife women’s health clinic and educational programs at the University of Utah. She then developed a gynecology clinic with HCA St. Mark’s Hospital.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Screens and social media have reshaped the world and our minds, bringing an appetite for distraction, loneliness, and increased rates of mental health challenges. It is time for Christians to rethink their relationship with screens and to consider what it means to live faithfully in our screen-dominated world. Our guest today, Brett McCracken, is the co-editor of a helpful and insightful new book Scrolling Ourselves to Death.  Brett McCracken is a senior editor and director of communications for The Gospel Coalition. He is the author of multiple books including The Wisdom Pyramid: Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World (Crossway, 2021), as well as the co-editor of Scrolling Ourselves to Death: Reclaiming Life in a Digital Age (Crossway, 2025). He has written for The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Huffington Post, CNN.com, Christianity Today, and many other publications.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Does the church need a "queer revolution"? Do we need a new reformation akin to the Protestant Reformation? In this discussion, Sean talks with author and progressive pastor Brandan Robertson about his new book Queer & Christian. They have a friendly debate about their different moral and theological frameworks and then discuss key biblical passages such as Genesis 2, Matthew 19, and Romans 1. If you want to see this discussion on video, visit Sean's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXnEb04zXCw Brandan Robertson is a progressive Christian pastor, writer, activist, and TikTok influencer. He has written on the subjects of millennials, social justice, and Progressive Christianity, and he is an LGBTQ activist.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Has traditional faith become obsolete in America? And if so, what are the main contributing factors? Until now, there has not been a thorough sociological analysis of the various factors contributing to the demise of religion in America since the 1990’s. In this interview, rooted in his latest book Why Religion Went Obsolete, Dr. Smith offers a 30,000-foot analysis of why traditional religion has faded in America.  Dr. Christian Smith is a highly influential sociologist and religious scholar. He is the William R. Kenan, Jr. Professor of Sociology and Director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Society at the University of Notre Dame. Smith received his MA and PhD from Harvard University in 1990 and his BA from Gordon College in 1983  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What happens when a comic book legend sits down to talk about faith? Sean got to interview Rob Liefeld, creator of Deadpool, Cable, and many iconic Marvel characters, to explore the intersection of faith, creativity, and culture. Rob and I discuss his journey in the comic book world and the creation of Deadpool, how his Christian faith has shaped his life and career, what it’s like navigating Hollywood as a believer and how pop culture can open doors for deeper conversations about truth.   To watch this exchange on video, please see Sean's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kos8nXSmmd4  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What does it mean that the Christian is an outsider in one’s community? How do we engage our divisive culture well and faithfully at the same time? What might your particular style for cultural engagement be? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, pastor Patrick Miller, around his new book, Joyful Outsiders: Six Ways to Live Like Jesus in a Disorienting Culture.  Patrick Miller is a teaching Pastor and Director of Digital Relationships at the Crossing Church in Columbia, MO. He has a master’s degree from Covenant Theological Seminary and he cohosts two podcasts: Ten Minute Bible Talks and Truth over Tribe, with Keith Simon. He and Keith are the authors of Truth Over Tribe, and their most recent book, Joyful Outsiders: Six Ways to Live Like Jesus in a Disorienting Culture.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

In this bonus episode, Sean discusses the possibility of miracles with atheist professor Paul Rinzler. This conversation was part of the Veritas Forum at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in the spring of 2025. McDowell and Rinzler discuss the evidence for miracles and whether or not it is reasonable to believe in the supernatural today. If you want to watch this exchange live, please check out Sean's YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdIA5Cw21eI  Paul Rinzler was Cal Poly Director of Jazz Studies 1997-2019. He earned his doctorate in theory/composition with a secondary emphasis in Jazz Pedagogy from the University of Northern Colorado. He recently gave the keynote address at the first conference on jazz and philosophy. His talk outlined a humanistic philosophy of jazz.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Parents are spending more time with their kids than in the past, and yet kids are less happy and less healthy. Given that the population of children is shrinking at an alarming rate, we need to figure out what is going on. Could it be that our culture is making raising kids harder than it needs to be? That is the suggestion of our guest today, Tim Carney, parent of six kids, and the author of Family Unfriendly.  Timothy Carney is a father of six children, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and a columnist for the Washington Examiner. He is also the author of Alienated America: The Big Ripoff.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How do we engage our friends, family and others around controversial issues, particularly those in science? Why do these controversial issues trigger emotional responses and how do we manage our emotions in these discussions? We’ll discuss these questions and more with our guest, Talbot colleague in philosophy, Dr. Tim Pickavance around some new research he and other Biola profs have been doing.  Dr. Tim Pickavance is broadly interested in the core areas of analytic philosophy, though he specializes in metaphysics. After completing his M.A. in Philosophy here at Talbot, he found himself in Austin at the University of Texas, where he earned his Ph.D. in 2008. He is thrilled to be a part of Biola and Talbot, contributing to the development of Christian philosophers who want to impact our culture in various venues, from academia to their churches to their personal friendships.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott is joined by Talbot professor Thaddeus Williams to discuss:  Why Don’t We Feel We're Thriving? — Despite living in the most prosperous era of human history, many Americans feel anxious and discontent.  The End of Rainbow Capitalism? — Major corporations are backing away from Pride Month sponsorships. The discussion unpacks “rainbow capitalism,” shifting public opinion, and the limits of associating brands with social causes. A Democratic Socialist Wins NYC Mayoral Primary — Scott and Thaddeus examine the growing support for socialism among Gen Z and millennials, and how it may intersect with our biblical mandate to love others. 10 Years After Obergefell — Reflections on the legalization of same-sex marriage and how the rise of transgender ideology, especially with minors, has led to cultural backlash and renewed concern about protecting children. Listener Questions: Work as an Idol? — How to balance ambition and calling without making work your identity.Pronouns and Christian Integrity — Can using “they/them” be a faithful alternative in gender conversations?Cohabitating Before the Wedding Party — Is it OK for a couple to cohabitate after a courthouse wedding, but before celebrating with their family? ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is critical theory and why is it so vital for Christians to understand today? What are its historical roots and where do we see it manifest today? Carl Trueman is one of the leading Christian social critics today and he has a new book To Change All Worlds. Sean and Scott talk with him about the motivation behind the book, why it is so timely for Christians today, and offers ideas for navigating our cultural moment in light of this profoundly influential movement.  Carl Trueman earned his Ph.D. at the University of Aberdeen and he currently is a professor of biblical and religious studies at Grove City College. He is the best-selling author of multiple books including The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott is joined by Erik Thoennes, Professor of Theology at Talbot School of Theology.  Smartphone Regret Among Parents: A new survey reveals most parents regret giving their kids smartphones and social media too early—many now see platforms like TikTok and Snapchat as more harmful than alcohol or even guns. Assisted Suicide and the Slippery Slope: A New York Times op-ed warns that limiting euthanasia to the terminally ill won’t last; cultural emphasis on autonomy may push boundaries further. Can Moms Really Have It All?: A new wave of voices—this time from the political right—encourage women to pursue careers and motherhood. Listener Question: Can Biola Be Trusted?Listener Followup on AI Chatbots in MedicineListener Question: Should I Be Worried That My Teen Is Drawn to Catholicism? ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Despite medicine’s remarkable advances, has it actually taken a wrong turn and lost something pretty important? What is the dominant worldview of medicine and health care today and how has that affected both patients and health care providers? What are the virtues that should govern health care to get it back on track? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, Dr. Brent Waters, emeritus professor and founding director of the Stead Center for Ethics and Values at Garrett Evangelical Seminary. Brent will be a plenary speaker at the national conference of the Center for Bioethics and Human Dignity, June 26-28. See cbhd.org/conference for more information. Guest Bio: Brent Waters is the Emeritus Jerre and Mary Joy Professor of Christian Social Ethics, and Emeritus Director of the Jerre L. and Mary Joy Stead Center for Ethics and Values at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Evanston, Illinois. He came to Garrett in 2001 and retired in 2022. Waters is the author or co-editor of 11 books, including most recently, Common Callings and Ordinary Virtues: Christian Ethics for Everyday Life. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott and guest host Carmen Imes discuss:  Can AI romantic chatbots become dangerously addictive? Exploring the emotional and ethical consequences of these pseudo-relationships.What do couples do with leftover embryos after IVF? A Psychology Today article opens a discussion on grief, responsibility, and the image of God.New genetic screening allows parents to select embryos based on up to 900 traits—raising urgent questions about modern eugenics and human worth.A report from The Marshall Project details how some U.S. prisons deprive inmates of sunlight and fresh air.Honoring the lives and legacies of Jennifer Lyell, a courageous abuse survivor, and Walter Brueggemann, a groundbreaking Old Testament scholar.Listener Questions: Bible translation preferences, defining God’s sovereignty, and how Christians should think about taxes in light of American history. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How is work connected to one’s purpose and meaning in life? What can churches do to foster a biblical view of work? How do certain lower paying jobs contribute to a person’s sense of purpose? We’ll answer these and more with our guest David Bahnsen around his new book Full Time: Work and the Meaning of Life.  David Bahnsen is the Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of The Bahnsen Group, a wealth management firm based in Newport Beach, California. The firm oversees $4 billion in client's assets. He is the author of several books including, Crisis of Responsibility: Our Cultural Addiction to Blame and How You Can Cure It, and Mis-Inflation: The Truth About Inflation, Pricing, and the Creation of Wealth.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week:  Therapy Culture & Childlessness – Sean and Scott discuss a New York Times article suggesting that the rise in childlessness among Millennials and Gen Z may be linked to therapeutic culture and a fear of repeating parental mistakes.Charismatic Christianity's Growth – A look at why charismatic and Pentecostal Christianity is the fastest-growing Christian movement globally, and what this spiritual hunger reveals about secularism and modern culture.Gene Editing Moratorium – The hosts unpack a call for a 10-year global ban on heritable human genome editing, highlighting concerns over unintended consequences and ethical boundaries in germline modifications.Planned Parenthood Closures – With clinics closing across several states, they examine what this trend says about abortion access, cultural shifts, and the growing use of abortion pills over surgical procedures.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How should we think biblically about AI? What are some of the exciting prospects for AI in the future? What should make us nervous about some of the uses of AI that are growing rapidly? We'll discuss these questions and more with our guest, Dr. Yohan Lee, Associate Dean of Technology here at Biola.  Dr. Yohan Lee holds the Promod and Dorcas Haque Endowed Chair of Technology and is Associate Dean of Technology and Professor of Computer Science in the School of Science, Technology and Health at Biola. He has been privileged to serve as a civil scientist (U.S. National Institutes of Health), Principal Investigator (Google AI), Chief Science Officer (Riiid Labs, Inc.), and CEO of his Silicon Valley AI startup (Scaled Entelechy, Inc). He holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience and genomics from UCLA.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

We got so many great questions from our listeners and we only have time for 2-3 in the Weekly Cultural Update. We have quite a backlog so we're devoting this episode entirely to your insightful questions. We'll cover things like How do we disciple our children? Was there animal violence before the Fall? What if education reform leaves behind kids that deserve better? What about Israel’s right to the land? We hope you enjoy this episode and that you keep your questions coming! ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What parts of the world are the most challenging for believers today? How has the relative comfort of American Christianity impacted spiritual growth, compared to communities experiencing persecution? What habits could American Christian adopt to more regularly remember and support our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world? We'll answer these questions and more with our guest, Brian Orme, CEO of Global Christian Relief.  Brian Orme is CEO of Global Christian Relief, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the persecuted church around the world. He founded ChurchLeaders.com, served as Senior Editor at Outreach magazine, and spent over a decade in pastoral ministry—equipping churches for both local and global impact.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

New federal law targets the removal of deepfakes and non-consensual intimate imagery online.Colorado law sparks controversy over parental rights and biblical views on sex and gender.Georgia hospital keeps a brain-dead woman on life support due to state laws.The world's first gene-editing treatment used to heal a one-week-old baby.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why would a pastor write a theological book on exercise? Would Jesus exercise if he were here bodily today? What does the Bible say about exercise and physical activity? And are Christians sinning if they don't exercise? These are a few of the questions Sean and Scott explore with pastor David Mathis, author of the new book A Little Theology of Exercise.  David is senior teacher and executive editor of desiringGod.org, pastor at Cities Church (Saint Paul), and adjunct professor for Bethlehem College & Seminary (Minneapolis). He is author of ‘Habits of Grace: Enjoying Jesus through the Spiritual Disciplines.’ His articles and messages are available online at desiringGod.org/mathis. He is married to Megan and father of four children.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week:  Are Young Men Lost or Returning to Faith? A deep dive into seemingly contradictory studies on young men: while many are falling behind in education and mental health, others are returning to church and discovering faith through the Bible, not institutional religion. The Role of Fathers and Masculinity Sean and Scott discuss how the absence of fathers, misapplied cultural expectations, and lack of male mentorship contribute to young men's struggles today. Exposing Pornhub’s Dark Secrets A disturbing New York Times report reveals internal documents from Pornhub detailing massive amounts of child sexual abuse material and corporate negligence.  What Does It Really Mean to Die with Dignity? The hosts reflect on a physician’s critique of assisted suicide laws, arguing true dignity comes from care, community, and affirming the worth of the vulnerable—not offering them an early death. Listener Q&A: Eastern Medicine and Cohabitation Thoughtful responses to audience questions on the ethical use of alternative medicine (book mentioned) and how to lovingly address adult children who are cohabitating.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Is empathy being weaponized by Progressives to manipulate Christians into adopting certain ethical and political views? Is empathy a virtue, or merely an emotion that is sometimes a valuable and important means of loving people? There have been a myriad of Christians books and podcasts on this topic, and so Sean has invited Biola communications professor Tim Muehlhoff to discuss and debate these issues and more. Enjoy! Tim Muehlhoff received his Ph.D. in Communication Studies at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. He is a professor of Communications at Biola University. He is a popular public speaker and the author of many books including End the Stalemate, which he co-wrote with Sean McDowell.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This Week's Topics: A New Pope has been chosen by the Catholic ChurchThe Supreme Court hears a case about government funding for a Catholic charter school in Oklahomaa new successful argument against transgenderism that Christians need to be aware ofA wild conversation about race on the Piers Morgan Show offers important lessons for Christians todayThis Week's Questions: How to hold Empathy and Biblical Teaching when talking with LGBTQ NeighborsSunday Mornings and Youth Sports========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why does God allow disabilities? What is the point of someone's disability? What is disability theology, and what are the implications of this for the church? In what sense will disabilities be healed when we meet the Lord? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, Dr Chris Ralston. Guest Bio: D. Christopher Ralston (PhD Rice University) served on staff at Joni and Friends International Disability Center from 2013 to 2020 and is also a fellow of The Center for Bioethics & Human Dignity. He is co-editor of Philosophical Reflections on Disability (Springer, 2009, and The Development of Bioethics in the United States (Springer, 2012). Articles mentioned in this episode: (2022). “Disability and the Resurrection: An Introduction.” Introduction for symposium on Disability and the Resurrection. Published April 21, 2022 in Sapientia, an online publication of the Carl F. Henry Center for Theological Understanding at Trinity International University (Deerfield, IL). https://henrycenter.tiu.edu/2022/04/disability-and-the-resurrection-an-introduction/(2022). “Shining through the Cracks.” Response essay for symposium on Disability and the Resurrection. Published April 21, 2022 in Sapientia, an online publication of the Carl F. Henry Center for Theological Understanding at Trinity International University (Deerfield, IL). https://henrycenter.tiu.edu/2022/04/shining-through-the-cracks/(2019). “Disability, Calling, and Transformation: A Response to Hans. S. Reinders’ Disability, Providence, and Ethics.” Response essay for book symposium on Disability, Providence, and Ethics: Bridging Gaps, Transforming Lives (Baylor University Press, 2014). Published December 9, 2019 in Sapientia, an online publication of the Carl F. Henry Center for Theological Understanding at Trinity International University (Deerfield, IL). https://henrycenter.tiu.edu/2019/12/disability-calling-and-transformation/ ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week's topics:  Abortion Pill Study: A massive study reveals serious health risks linked to the abortion pill mifepristone, with adverse events 22 times higher than FDA estimates—raising ethical and philosophical concerns about privacy, safety, and the personhood of the unborn. Fathers Post-COVID: New research shows American dads are spending more time with their young kids, a trend celebrated for its relational and societal impact—challenging cultural narratives that downplay the importance of fathers. AI vs. College Grads?: A rising unemployment rate among college grads sparks debate on whether AI is replacing entry-level jobs; we discuss the need for adaptability, wisdom, and a renewed understanding of vocation. What Makes Us Happy?: After nearly a century of research, experts conclude that happiness hinges on purpose, relationships, and service—echoing timeless biblical wisdom about loving God and others. Listener Q&A: Questions on school taxes, public funding, embryo ethics, and clarify past comments about parental rights and moral obligations. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What does the Bible say, if anything, about living together before marriage? Given that 70% of Americans now cohabit before marriage, and roughly 2/3 believe it will improve the odds of relationship success, what does the data show about how effective it is? While this is a huge topic in the church and culture today, surprisingly, few people are discussing it. In this episode, Sean and Scott discuss a recent study on cohabitation from the Institute for Family Studies. Download the study: https://ifstudies.org/reports/whats-the-plan-cohabitation/2023/executive-summary  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Topics this week:  Controversy after Christianity Today published an article questioning whether Jesus was crucified with nails.    The Supreme Court is debating whether parents can opt their kids out of LGBTQ-themed books in elementary schools.    The New York Times and USA Today published articles discussing the return to church, particularly among young men, and the increased interest in the supernatural in today's culture.    Listener question on the ethical and theological implications of the rise of megachurches and ultra-rich pastors.    Listener question on how to test the reliability and reputability of news sources in the age of disinformation.     ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How many Americans are engaging the Bible today? And in what ways? How does Bible reading affect giving to charity, life flourishing, and experience with loneliness? Sean and Scott discuss these questions, and more, by analyzing the latest report from the American Bible Society. While some of the findings are expected, quite a few are eye-opening and unexpected. Read and download the report here. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Topics this week: Women's Basketball Player Embraces Her FaithThe UK Supreme Court Rules on GenderFrance's Law on Anonymous Sperm and Egg DonationRichard Dawkins' Blog Post on ChristianityListener Questions: Further questions concerning the life of MLK jr.How should someone approach talking with parents in the midst of deconstruction?Is there continuity of life between now and the new heavens and new earth?========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Michael Heiser is one of the most influential Old Testament scholars over the past decade. In this video, Sean is joined by Talbot Old Testament professor Charlie Trimm to discuss Heiser’s best-selling book “The Unseen Realm.” They discuss these questions and more: Why has Heiser been so influential? Are his ideas orthodox? Should Christians read his works? What does it mean to biblically embrace the supernatural realm?  Charlie Trimm received his Ph.D. from Wheaton College in 2012, writing his dissertation on God acting as a divine warrior in the exodus. His research interests include warfare in the ancient Near East, difficult topics relating to the ethics of God in the Old Testament, Exodus, and J.R.R. Tolkien. He is also a director of Every Voice: A Center for Kingdom Diversity in Christian Theological Education. When he is not teaching or writing, he can often be found spending time with family or watching Arsenal, his favorite football (soccer) team. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Topics this week: An Atlantic article on Elaine Pagels' new book, "Miracles and Wonder." Is she downplaying the supernatural? This episode dives into her controversial take on New Testament miracles.Florida teacher fired for using a student's preferred name without parental consent. Where do parental rights collide with student support? Scientists have brought back the dire wolf. Is this a cool breakthrough or a recipe for disaster? We debate the ethics of de-extinction.Are embryos property? Are they human life? The Alabama court ruling ignited a firestorm, and we're tackling the tough questions.Listener Question: Martin Luther King Jr.: Hero or flawed figure? We address a listener's challenge and discuss how to reconcile King's legacy with his imperfections.Listener Questions: Psychedelics: Are they safe? We pump the brakes on the hype, exploring potential harms and the principle of double effect.  Apologies for the late publishing this week — our production team was busy with a large event on Thursday and Friday.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What should apologetics look like for this generation? What does it mean that apologetics is for everyone, not just specialists? How is the gospel good news, especially for women? We’ll discuss these questions and more with Sean around his new book Apologetics for an Ever-Changing Culture.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week's topics: Polygany Found to Cause Lower Birthrates than MonogamyAI Chatbots can Allow People to Talk with Deceased RelativesNew Tech allows for more Control Over Embryo Selection.Listener Questions: A Listener shares their experience working in secular spaces and using preferred pronouns. Should christians identify as gay? Are near death experiences biblical? ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is the state of the intelligent design movement today? How is it faring in the scientific realm, the church, and in the public? How has the strategy of the ID movement shifted, and what has it learned over the past 20 years? Our guest today is Biola University Biology professor Doug Axe. Douglas Axe is the Maxwell Professor of Molecular Biology at Biola University, the founding Director of Biologic Institute, the founding Editor of BIO-Complexity, and the author of Undeniable: How Biology Confirms Our Intuition That Life Is Designed. After completing his PhD at Caltech, he held postdoctoral and research scientist positions at the University of Cambridge and the Cambridge Medical Research Council Centre. His research, which examines the functional and structural constraints on the evolution of proteins and protein systems, has been featured in many scientific journals, including the Journal of Molecular Biology, the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, BIO-Complexity, and Nature, and in such books as Signature in the Cell and Darwin’s Doubt by Stephen Meyer and Life’s Solution by Simon Conway Morris. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week's topics:  The Ethics of Embryo Research: The abortion debate is shifting toward the status and treatment of embryos—especially in light of new scientific experimentation pushing past the 14-day research limit. Science vs. Philosophy: Scott and Sean discuss the crucial distinction between biological life and personhood—and why science can’t answer moral questions about human identity. Christianity’s Resurgence in Silicon Valley?: A Vanity Fair article highlights growing interest in Christianity in tech culture—but is it genuine faith or just a useful tool for success? Faith as a Business Strategy: From Peter Thiel to AI startups, some leaders are invoking Christian values in surprising ways—but Sean and Scott caution against reducing Christianity to a productivity hack. The Rise of Vigilante ‘Pedophile Hunters’: Viral videos of vigilantes confronting suspected predators are gaining popularity—but the hosts unpack the dangers of vigilante justice and the biblical call to trust God’s authority. Listener Q&A: Can Christians identify as gay? Is same-sex attraction a “thorn in the flesh”? The hosts clarify biblical teaching while emphasizing grace and transformation. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is the enduring legacy of MLK?, why has the culture neglected the theological basis for his civil rights work?, what assumptions to white and black people have about each other that are inaccurate or unhelpful? We'll discuss these questions and more in a joint podcast with the Biola Winsome Convictions Podcast and my co-host Tim Muehlhoff. Our guest is Pastor Chris Brooks, pastor of Woodside Bible Church in metro Detroit and host of the radio program, Equipped with Chris Brooks.  Chris Brooks is a husband, father, pastor, radio host, and author. He and his wife, Yodit, adopted three of their six kids. He holds degrees from Michigan State University and Biola University and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree from Asbury Theological Seminary. In addition to pastoring our church family, he hosts “Equipped with Chris Brooks,” a national radio program by Moody Radio, and is the author of Urban Apologetics. Tim Muehlhoff (PhD, University of North Carolina) is a professor of communication at Biola University in La Mirada, California; co-director of The Winsome Conviction Project and Podcast; and a speaker and research consultant for the Center for Marriage and Relationships. His books include The God Conversation, I Beg to Differ,Winsome Conviction, and Winsome Persuasion, which received a 2018 Christianity Today book award in apologetics/evangelism. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Decline of Romantic Relationships Among Young People – Dating among high school and college students is decreasing due to emotional intimacy fears, digital distractions, and safety concerns, highlighting the theological importance of relationships. Rise of Pornography Over Real Relationships – Many young men now prefer pornography over romantic relationships, leading to emotional desensitization, weakened human connections, and the need for a biblical approach to sexual purity. Need for Digital Gatekeepers for Screens and Social Media – Easy access to harmful online content poses risks to minors, prompting discussions on parental responsibility, tech company policies, and legislative efforts to enforce stricter digital protections. Inspirational Story: The Man with the Golden Arm – James Harrison, an Australian blood donor, saved thousands of newborns with his rare antibodies, exemplifying selfless service and humanitarian impact. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Should Christians identify as gay? Is this a secondary issue that should not divide Christians, or is more at stake? Sean and Preston Sprinkle continue the dialogue from last week and focus on the question of whether homosexuality can be one part of Christian identity. Preston Sprinkle is Biblical scholar, speaker, and the head of the Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender. He is the best-selling author of multiple books including People to be Loved and Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage? He hosts the popular podcast Theology in the Raw. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Sean and Scott discuss:  New Study on Gender Affirming Surgery – A major peer-reviewed study finds increased psychological distress post-surgery, sparking discussion on long-term mental health effects and the importance of pre-surgical mental health assessments.The Future of Faith in America – Pew data suggests the rise of the “nones” (religiously unaffiliated) has plateaued, but experts predict continued secularization due to generational shifts.The Nature vs. Nurture Debate Evolves – A look at sociogenomics, a new field exploring how genes and environment interact, raising ethical concerns about genetic selection in reproduction.Listener Question: Does the Bible Actually Forbid 1st Cousin Marriage?Listener Feedback: Are Adoptive Parents Heroes? – A listener challenges the idea of calling adoptive parents "heroes," prompting a discussion on the bittersweet realities of adoption.Listener Question: Shifting Pastoral Expectations – A pastor shares struggles with evolving church leadership roles, leading to a conversation on how pastors can navigate changing responsibilities. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Should Christians use preferred pronouns? Is it wise and biblically permissible, or not? While Sean has had this discussion before on the Think Biblically podcast, this episode features a conversation with Preston Sprinkle, and they go even deeper. They also discuss how the LGBTQ conversation has shifted in the church over the past decade. Preston Sprinkle is Biblical scholar, speaker, and the head of the Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender. He is the best-selling author of multiple books including Embodied: Transgender Identities, the Church, and What the Bible Has to Say and Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage? He hosts the popular podcast Theology in the Raw. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Maine Continues to Fight over Transgender AthletesA Bill to Recognise First Cousin MarriageIs America Becoming a Theocracy?A Bill in Washington Challenges Religous Liberty========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How strong is the evidence for near-death experiences? How has the field of study changed over the past 50 years since doctors, academics, and other experts began studying them? And what do they reveal about the soul or the afterlife? In this episode, Sean and Scott talk with Dr. Steve Miller, a near-death experience researcher and author, about these questions and more. They discuss how the study of near-death experiences, and deathbed experiences, has shifted over the past 5 decades. Steve is an educator (teaches in the Interdisciplinary Studies Department at Kennesaw State University), researcher, entrepreneur, and speaker, having taught audiences from Atlanta to Moscow. Along with studying near-death experiences, Steve has also researched and written on the topic of deathbed experiences. He is the author of multiple books including Near-Death Experiences as Evidence for the Afterlife and Heaven. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Humanoid Robots in the Workforce. AI-powered robots are becoming more common for tasks like stacking and sorting, though their abilities remain limited.Medically Assisted Suicide and Alzheimer's: Quebec now allows terminally ill patients to choose assisted death years in advance, sparking ethical debates.Christianity’s Resilience in America: New research challenges the idea of Christianity’s decline, showing signs of resilience and growth.Planned Parenthood Allegations: Reports reveal botched care, lawsuits, and toxic work environments, raising safety concerns.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What are the sociological effects for women from trans ideology? How do we think biblically given our confused cultural moment about sex, gender, and identity? And what does all this mean for those who want to reach and disciple Gen Z? Sean and Scott address these questions and more with Katie McCoy, author of To Be a Woman.  Katie McCoy holds a PhD in Systematic Theology from Southwestern Seminary (TX), where she served on faculty for five years. Katie's research includes the patterns of justice for women in Old Testament laws as well as the intersection of theology, gender, and women's studies. She is the author of To Be a Woman: The Confusion Over Female Identity and How Christians Can Respond, as well as co-author of Humanity, part of the Theology for the People of God series.   ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

In this episode, Scott Rae and guest co-host Dr. Tim Pickavance tackle key cultural issues through a biblical lens: Are Traditional Wedding Vows Disappearing? A discussion on the enduring significance of wedding vows and their role in shaping lasting marriages.Free Speech in the Digital Age – How platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Meta are handling (or not handling) hate speech, and the tricky balance between free expression and content moderation.Is TikTok Killing Democracy? The impact of social media on students’ ability to think critically and engage in meaningful discourse.Another IVF Tragedy – A heartbreaking mix-up at a fertility clinic raises tough ethical and personal dilemmas.Listener Q&A: Addressing deep questions on faith, social issues, and bioethics, including how to help young people think biblically, how to acknowledge miscarried children, and the ethics of medical enhancement.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is the state of Christian efforts to reach out to their Jewish friends and neighbors? What are the biggest barriers Jews have to considering the claims of Christ? And how can Christians lovingly engage their Jewish friends with the gospel? In this episode, Sean and Scott talk with Mitch Glaser, from Chosen People Ministries, to discuss these questions and more. Dr. Glaser gives practical, historical, and biblical insights to these questions.  Even though he grew up in a nominally Orthodox Jewish home in New York, and he dabbled in New Age beliefs, Mitch Glaser became a Christian in 1970. Dr. Glaser is an alumnus of Northeastern Bible College and holds a Master of Divinity degree in Old Testament from Talbot School of Theology as well as a Ph.D. in Intercultural Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary, School of Intercultural Studies. Both Mitch and his wife Zhava teach at the Charles Feinberg Center for Messianic Jewish Studies — a partnership between Chosen People Ministries and Talbot School of Theology.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott and Sean discuss:  Can AI feel pain? Scientists experiment with AI models simulating pain and pleasure to test for sentience—but are we just anthropomorphizing algorithms?AI relationships on the rise? One in four young adults believe AI could replace real-life romance, raising serious concerns about loneliness and human connection.Should AI make end-of-life decisions? Some experts suggest AI could help assess patient choices, but can it ever replace the wisdom of human caregivers?Boy Scouts rebrand to Scouting America. The century-old organization changes its name and introduces a DEI-focused badge, sparking debate over tradition and inclusivity.Listener Questions on parenting, guilt about surviving medical incidents, and our participation in consumerism.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is the contribution of the neurosciences to our understanding of gender? How does the study of the brain help us understand transgenderism? How, if at all, are male and female brains different? And would it be possible to have a male brain in a female body? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, Dr. Stephen Willing.  You can view a transcript of Dr. Willing's talk at the Evangelical Theological Society here. Steven Willing is board-certified in diagnostic radiology and neuroradiology, with an MD from the Medical College of Georgia and an MBA from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He has held faculty positions at the University of Louisville, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and Indiana University, where he taught and practiced diagnostic and interventional neuroradiology. Currently, he is a clinical neuroradiologist at Children’s of Alabama, a consultant in radiology at Tenwek Hospital in Kenya, a visiting scholar with Reasons to Believe, and an adjunct Professor of Divinity at Regent University. Dr. Willing is the author of Superbia: The Perils of Pride. The Power of Humility.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This Week, Scott and Sean Discuss: Dating is Dropping among TeenagersAI Generated News Articles have been PublishedThe Super Bowl Removes "End Racism" SloganA New Zealand Mountain is Granted PersonhoodListener Question: If God allows something, does that mean He causes it?Listener Question: How should we think about animal violence?Listener Question: How should we refute the secular humanist argument that our human morals developed as humans evolved?========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What is the state of religious freedom in the US? What about those who claim that religious freedom is sometime seen as code for bigotry and discrimination, inconsistent with some trends toward justice? What are the main challenges to religious freedom in the West today? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest and good friend, Baylor University Professor Dr. Frank Beckwith.  Dr. Frank Beckwith is Professor of Philosophy & Church-State Studies at Baylor University, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Graduate Program in Philosophy,  Affiliate Professor of Political Science, and Resident Scholar in Baylor’s Institute for Studies of Religion (ISR). He is the author of numerous books in philosophy, apologetics, political science and church-state relations.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Topics of discussion this week: 80th Anniversary of Auschwitz’s Liberation – Reflecting on the horrors of the Holocaust, the importance of remembering history, and the moral lessons Auschwitz teaches us today.School Choice on the Rise – 2025 may be the tipping point for school choice in the U.S., as more states adopt policies that expand educational options for families.The Decline of DEI? – Reports show that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are being reconsidered, with concerns about their effectiveness and impact on institutions like the military and universities.Can You Believe in Jesus and Buddha? – Addressing a listener’s question about whether the teachings of Jesus and Buddha are compatible, and how to navigate those discussions.Disabilities and Eternity – If disabilities are removed in the final resurrection, does that mean those with disabilities today are missing something essential? Should Christians Watch Horror Movies? – How should believers decide what’s okay to watch? A conversation on discernment, storytelling, and biblical principles in entertainment.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What does it mean to have a healthy calling? Why are people who view their work as a calling more vulnerable to burnout? How do you know when your work has given way to idolatry? We’ll discuss these questions and much more with our Biola communications colleague, Dr. Ariana Molloy, around her new book, Healthy Calling: From Toxic Burnout to Sustainable Work. Dr. Arianna Molloy (Ph.D., University of Denver, CO) is an Associate Professor of Organizational Communication in the Division of Communication at Biola University. Dr. Molloy's research focuses on meaningful work, work as a calling, having published in premier journals such the International Journal of Business Communication, Communication Studies, Journal of Management, Spirituality, and Religion. She also works as a communication consultant for organizations such as Chick-fil-A, as well as business professionals, and ministries.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Scott is joined by Erik Thoennes to discuss:  Religious Elements in Presidential Inaugurations: A discussion on the profound religious traditions embedded in the U.S. presidential inauguration, highlighting the inclusion of clergy, prayers, and hymns, and their connection to America's cultural and historical fabric. Christian Players in the National Championship: Exploration of faith in sports, as prominent Christian athletes publicly credited God, raising questions about divine intervention and faith's role in competitive events. Moral Intuitions of a Liberal Atheist: Reflection on a liberal atheist grappling with the sanctity of life, surrogacy, and prenatal ethics, demonstrating how moral intuitions often intersect with theological principles. The Ethics of Hormone-Blocking Drugs: Tackling the complex issue of administering hormone-blocking drugs to sex offenders, balancing public safety with ethical concerns and the individual's dignity. Hostage Negotiations and Just War Theory: A deep dive into the moral and theological principles surrounding hostage deals, weighing the sanctity of life against potential future consequences. God’s Sovereignty in Human Affairs: Insightful discussions on God's role in both monumental and mundane aspects of life, encouraging trust in divine wisdom amid human uncertainties.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How can Christians think biblically about TV and movies? What kinds of entertainment should Christians consume? And can Christians survive and thrive in Hollywood today? These are the kinds of questions Sean and Scott ask their special guest, Biola professor and dean Tom Halleen, who has worked as an executive in Hollywood for over three decades. Tom Halleen, former executive vice president of programming strategy, acquisitions and scheduling at AMC Networks, is the founding dean of Biola’s Snyder School of Cinema and Media Arts. Through his nearly 30 years as an entertainment industry executive, Halleen has experience in all divisions of programming national television networks including acquisitions, scheduling, development, production, operations, viewer services, research, legal, standards and practices, and promo/media planning. Throughout his career, Halleen has negotiated for the acquisition of over $1 billion in series, specials and movies.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott & Sean discuss:  Biblical Perspective on Southern California Fires Exploring the theological implications of natural disasters, addressing questions about God's sovereignty and goodness amidst tragedy. Rising Global Anti-Semitism Report showing an alarming increase in anti-Semitic sentiments worldwide, especially among younger generations, and highlights the role of social media in spreading these views. Pharmacists Prescribing Abortion Pills Examines the new policy in Washington State and its broader implications, including ethical, medical, and biblical perspectives. Listener Questions On human rights, biblical definitions of flourishing, and the church's responsibility to address poverty and inequality. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What does it mean to engage Jesus with our senses? What is an embodied approach to studying the life of Jesus as opposed to the way we normally read the gospel accounts? How could this change the way we encounter Jesus in the gospels? We’ll discuss these questions and more with our guest, Talbot colleague Jeannine Hanger in her new book, Engaging Jesus with Our Senses.  Dr. Jeannine Hanger is Associate Professor of New Testament at Talbot. She has a Ph.D. from the University of Aberdeen, and is scholar in residence at Coastline Covenant Church in Southern California. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

For the first week of the new year, Sean & Scott discuss: Update on the wildfires in Southern California.Atheist author argues that true Christianity is key to saving America.The California Senate revisits expanding aid-in-dying laws to include dementia and Alzheimer's patients.AI’s role in selecting embryos raises significant ethical and moral questions about life and reproduction.Listener Response to Jim Daly on singlenessListener Question: Responsibility to leave inheritance to a child living a life you don't agree with. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What does it mean to say that we are body and soul both? Have the neurosciences done away with the soul? Are we little more than our physical stuff that is reducible to chemistry and physics? We’ll answer these questions and much more in our conversation with Stan Wallace around his new book, Have We Lost Our Minds?: Neuroscience, Neurotheology the Soul and Human Flourishing. Stan Wallace is President and CEO of Global Scholars. He is a MA Phil graduate of Talbot School of Theology.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What new challenges have emerged to the family in the past few years? How is the family doing today versus in the past? What biblical principles must Christians keep in mind when thinking about the family today? These are a few of the questions we ask Jim Daly, president of Focus on the Family. He discusses radical shifts in the modern family as well as gives practical ideas on how to pass on the faith and engage others in the culture who view the family differently. Jim Daly is president of Focus on the Family and host of its daily show, heard by more than 6 million listeners a week on nearly 2,000 radio stations across the U.S. The show has been honored as Program of the Year by the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB). In March 2022, he celebrated his 33rd anniversary with the ministry.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Jordan Peterson is one of the leading intellectuals of our day. He is a mega-selling author, psychologist, and popular influencer. In this discussion, Sean and Scott review his latest book We Who Wrestle with God. They discuss key lessons and insights from the book, but also help listeners think biblically about some of Peterson's psychological insights.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Topics this week:  Veterans are increasingly exploring psychedelic treatments in Mexico for trauma and brain injuries, raising medical, ethical, and spiritual questions.Syrian Christians face uncertainty and displacement following the rise of Islamist-led groups after the fall of Bashar al-Assad.Over 1 million children in Nigeria are forced into hazardous lithium mining, sacrificing education and health for survival.Listener question: balancing faith with worldly pressures.Listener question: insights on identity, morality, and how to live out gospel values in a broken world.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Who was the "real" Bonhoeffer and why has he left such an enduring legacy? What can we learn from his life today? And is the new film about his life, Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin, accurate? In this interview, we talk with Dr. Brant Himes, a professor and scholar who has studied the life and theology of Bonhoeffer for two decades. Brant is a full time faculty member at Los Angeles Pacific University (part of the Azusa Pacific University System), teaching online courses in Bible, theology, and history. He also serves as the Young Adults Coordinator at Westside Church in Bend, Oregon. His publications include Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Discipleship for the Common Good; Faith, Life and Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Neo-Calvinism in Dialogue: Perspectives in Public Theology.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Sean & Scott discuss:  UK bans puberty blockers for children, citing insufficient evidence of safety and efficacy, sparking international comparisons and debate.OpenAI's new AI video generator, Sora, raises ethical and biblical questions about truth and technology's societal impact.Designer babies now teens, with many experiencing identity struggles, reveal the unintended consequences of parental expectations and genetic tailoring.The legacy of Hal Lindsey, author of The Late Great Planet Earth, prompts reflection on eschatology and its influence on evangelical social action.Listener questions on foster care goals and Bible study methods for teaching and preaching.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

The Barna Group has released a new alarming study about the extent and impact of pornography in the culture and the church. Some of the findings are truly eye-opening and disturbing. For example, 55% of practicing Christians reportedly believe that one can view porn and be sexually healthy. How did we get here, and what can we do about it? Sean and Scott discuss this new study and then give suggestions for how we move forward in our lives and relationships.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott and Erik Thoennes discuss:  IVF Mix-Up Drama: A heartbreaking in vitro fertilization mix-up forces two families to navigate moral, emotional, and relational challenges.Assisted Suicide Legalization: UK Parliament passes a bill legalizing assisted suicide, sparking debates on ethics, compassion, and the sanctity of life.Faith Amid Chaos: Players kneel to pray during a brawl after the Ohio State vs. Michigan football game, showcasing the counter-cultural impact of faith.Hunter Biden's Pardon: Exploring the theological significance of presidential pardons, grace, and justice through the lens of Hunter Biden’s case.Supreme Court and Gender-Affirming Care: The US Supreme Court hears a pivotal case on Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming treatments for minors.Parents Deconstructing Faith: How children can navigate faith conversations when their parents appear to embrace progressive Christianity.Christian Schools vs. Churches: Differentiating the complementary yet distinct roles of Christian schools and local churches in discipleship and community. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What makes Jesus so different than other religious leaders? How can you prove Christianity is true? How should we evaluate the claim that “Jesus changed my life.” We’ll answer these questions and much more as Sean and I discuss the revision that he and his dad, Josh McDowell recently did to the bestselling and impactful book, More Than a Carpenter.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

With the Thanksgiving season upon us, we thought it fitting to do some theological and psychological reflection on gratitude. Join us for this stimulating conversation with Rosemead Professor Dr. Stacy Eltiti, as we explore dimensions of gratitude that you might not have thought about before. It can be applied all year round, not just during the Thanksgiving holiday. Dr. Stacy Eltiti is Associate Professor of Psychology at Rosemead School of Psychology, Biola University. She has a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology from the University of Essex in the UK. Among her areas of expertise is the psychology of gratitude. She has written and presented widely in a variety of areas on the field of psychology.    This episode was originally posted in 2019.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, live from the Evangelical Theological Society Conference in San Diego, Scott & Sean discuss:  West Virginia amends its constitution to ban physician-assisted suicide, sparking a larger discussion on bioethics and cultural trends.Harvard's controversial "Sex Week" and a student's bold critique highlight the cultural longing for deeper meaning in human relationships.The Texas Board of Education backs an elementary school curriculum incorporating biblical content, raising questions about the role of faith in public education.Listener question: Follow up on discussion of genetic privacy and its implications in healthcare and insurance.Listener question: How to give generously without Pharisaical tendencies.Listener question: Recommendations for Bible study tools include the new NIV Application Commentary and Logos Bible Software for deeper scriptural engagement.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Is it really true that no area of culture, politics or economics where we prioritize what is best for children? What are some of the biggest cultural lies about masculinity and femininity that impact children? What are some of the main cultural misconceptions about the family that harm children? And how does green energy subsidization negatively impact children? We’ll answer these questions and much more with our guest Katy Faust, founder of the children’s advocacy group, Them Before Us, around a new book she’s edited called, Pro-Child Politics: Why Every Cultural, Economic and National Issue is a Matter of Justice for Children.  Katy Faust is Founder and President of Them Before Us, a global movement defending children’s right to their mother and father. She publishes, speaks and testifies widely on why marriage and family are matters of justice for children.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Topics this week:  Scott & Sean dive into genetic discrimination, exploring gaps in U.S. laws that leave people vulnerable to genetic privacy violations by insurers. Australia plans to ban social media for minors under 16, sparking debate on mental health vs. freedom and enforcement challenges. Justin Welby resigns as Archbishop of Canterbury amid allegations he mishandled abuse reports, raising questions of accountability in church leadership. Listener questions on vasectomies, moral obligation to fight terminal disease, and if Presidents are placed by God.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How should we think biblically about morality in today’s culture? What do we way to the skeptic who insists that morality is nothing more than a matter of one’s opinion? What is the moral argument for God’s existence? Why is God critical for a coherent view of morality? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, our colleague Dr Dave Horner around his new book with JP Moreland, (don’t let the title throw you) Metaethics—or how to think about morality and ethics.  Dr. Dave Horner is Professor of Theology and Philosophy at Talbot.  He has a D.Phil. from Oxford and is the author of several books, including Mind Your Faith: A Student's Guide for Thinking and Living Well, and numerous journal articles, book chapters, blog posts and conference presentations.  He's a specialist in Aristotle and Aquinas in addition to ancient and medieval philosophy.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Topics this week include:  Reflecting on living with one another post-election, focusing on maintaining relationships amidst political differences.Discussion of a recent article exploring the challenges and necessity of unity within the church despite diverse political beliefs.Insights on balancing truth and grace in conversations, especially when discussing sensitive issues like abortion or differing political opinions.Analysis of a controversial U.S. startup offering embryo IQ screening, raising ethical questions around genetic enhancement.Addressing listener questions about intrauterine devices (IUDs) and their effects, as well as guidance for teaching about the Bible’s reliability to young students.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

What do we mean by the phrase, sola Scriptura? What does it mean that the Bible is our authority for life today? How does that fit in a culture that emphasizes “my truth?” We’ll discuss these questions and more with our guest, Dr, Ben Witherington around his new book Sola Scriptura: Scripture’s Final Authority in the Modern World.  Bible scholar Ben Witherington is Amos Professor of New Testament for Doctoral Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary and on the doctoral faculty at St. Andrews University in Scotland. Witherington has written over sixty books, including The Jesus Quest and The Paul Quest, both of which were selected as top biblical studies works by Christianity Today. He also writes for many church and scholarly publications, and is a frequent contributor to the Patheos website.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Sean and Scott discuss:  A murdered teenager was resurrected as a chatbot, raising ethical and theological concerns about AI misuse.A Harvard study suggests that race matters less than it used to for achieving the American dream, with economic mobility improving for Black Americans.Young men in America are falling behind in education, employment, and mental health, facing a crisis of purpose and increasing isolation.Listener question: ethical dilemmas around IVF, including the moral treatment of frozen embryos.Listener question: How Christians can uphold Sunday worship in light of the Sabbath command being fulfilled in Christ. The short film Scott mentions can be viewed here.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week Sean and Scott continue the conversation about the morality of IVF. Don't forget to listen to Part 1, last week, when they defined and explained the nature of IVF and began the conversation about the moral permissibility of practicing it. This week, we uncover further differences and clarify the moral issues beneath the debate.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week's topics:  A tragic story about a 14-year-old's suicide raises questions about the role of AI in human relationships.Exploring the possibility of a religious comeback: Are we seeing signs of renewed interest in faith?Political word games and the language used by both sides to shape public perception.Listener questions on bridging ideological divides with family and engaging with differing religious views. ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Is IVF ever morally permissible for Christians? And if so, what conditions must be met? Is it ever morally justified to freeze embryos? These are just a few of the questions Sean and Scott discuss in this first part of a two-part discussion on the morality of IVF. If you are looking for a substantive discussion about the case for and against IVF, you will enjoy this first part.  Join us next week for part 2.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott & Sean discuss:  Italy criminalizes surrogacy abroad for its citizens, sparking controversy on LGBTQ rights and ethical surrogacy practices.The University of Michigan invests $250 million in DEI initiatives, but faces increased discord and skepticism over their effectiveness.A new prenuptial agreement feature introduces embryo clauses, addressing legal issues in the event of divorce or death.The Catholic Archdiocese of LA agrees to a record $880 million settlement with sex abuse victims, pushing total payouts above $1.5 billion.Listener questions explore challenges of gender identity, relational dynamics, and the importance of seeing identity in Christ.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

The most fundamental question that our polarized culture faces is this — Who should be included in the human community? And on what basis? Should embryos, fetuses, the severely demented or the persons in a vegetative state? What does our view of a person suggest about how we care for people at the end of life? Taking Persons Seriously connects philosophy and bioethics—it’s a bit more technical discussion so hang in there with us and the dots will connect and the light will come on as we go along. It’s a book that Scott and Dr. Mihretu Guta edited together. Dr. Guta will be with us on this episode.  Dr. Mihretu Guta is adjunct professor of philosophy in the Philosophy and Apologetics programs at Talbot.  He is the author of several high level philosophical books and numerous journal articles.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Topics this week:  Growing concerns about the rising potency and health risks of marijuana use, with increasing reports of psychosis and addiction.China reverses its one-child policy, now promoting larger families in a dramatic policy shift to combat declining birth rates.AI technology is advancing with automatically-generated podcasts, raising ethical questions about its impact on emotions, information accuracy, and human interaction.Listener questions on the challenges of politics in church and balancing celebration with sensitivity during holidays like Mother's Day.========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why should Christians care about the conflict between Israel and Palestine? Why is there such a gap between Gen Z and other generations on viewing the conflict? Is Israel committing a just war, or is it genocide? In this episode, Sean and Scott address these questions, and more, with Dr. Jeff Myers, author of the new book Should Christians Support Israel?  Jeff Myers, Ph.D. is the president of Summit Ministries, which has trained hundreds of thousands of young leaders to embrace God's truth and champion a biblical worldview. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Denver and is the author of 18 books including Understanding the Times.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week, Scott and special guest Erik Thoennes discuss:  Hillsdale College wins an important Title IX court decision on religious freedom.A new gender divide emerges in Gen Z: men seeking traditional roles, women pushing for progress.Elite college students struggle to read an entire book, raising concerns about deep reading skills.Discussion on how loving God with your mind relates to reading Scripture deeply.Listener questions addressed on topics like censorship in education and the future of intimacy with technology.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Why is it often difficult to find pleasure and joy in God? If the chief end of man is to know and enjoy God, why do so many of us fall short? In this episode, Sean and Scott talk with Biola professor Thaddeus Williams about these questions and his new book Revering God. Dr. Williams argues that a deep-dive into the theological understanding of the reverence of God can transform our relationship with God and allow us to live in awe-inspired devotion.  Thaddeus J. Williams (Ph.D., Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam) loves enlarging students’ understanding and enjoyment of Jesus at Biola University in La Mirada, CA, where he serves as associate professor of Systematic Theology for Talbot School of Theology. He has also taught Philosophy and Literature at Saddleback College, Jurisprudence at Trinity Law School, and as a lecturer in Worldview Studies at L’Abri Fellowships in Switzerland and Holland, and Ethics for Blackstone Legal Fellowship the Federalist Society in Washington D.C. He resides in Orange County, CA with his wife and four kids.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week:  Are conservative Christians losing political influence in America?The growing trend of children struggling to make friends raises alarming health concerns.Gen Z women are increasingly unaffiliated with religion—what's behind this shift?A Missouri man’s execution sparks questions about the fairness of the death penalty.Is working from home a moral issue, as Elon Musk claims?Listener questions on the return of Christ and how to approach political news from a biblical perspective.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

Are there non-Christians who are genuinely open to hearing about the Christian faith? According to Mark Matlock, author of Faith for the Curious, there is a large segment of people who are genuinely spiritually curious. But, the key is to understand them accurately and to engage them in the right way. In this episode, Sean and Scott talk with Mark about how to understand and engage those today who are spiritually open and curious. Mark Matlock is Senior Fellow at Barna and a facilitator of innovation and impact. He has been working with, and researching, young people for three decades. Mark is the Executive Director of the Urbana Student Missions Conferences. He attended Biola in the late 1980s.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week's topics:  The Taliban imposes new, harsh restrictions on women in Afghanistan, raising concerns about women's rights and human dignity.Some Christians in Oklahoma and other states push back against mandatory Bible teaching in public schools, questioning its place in public education.Gen Z expresses significant regret over the invention of social media, with many users experiencing negative impacts on mental health and social well-being.DNA and ancestry testing uncover disturbing findings about the prevalence of incest in modern society, sparking difficult ethical and emotional questions.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

How should we approach the political arena as Christians? What exactly does the Bible give us when it comes to politics? How can we make sure that our conversations about politics are civil and respectful? Sean and Scott will answer these questions and more as they discuss the connection between Christian faith and politics. It's National Voter Registration Day! Visit vote.gov to register to vote or check your registration status. You can also find information on how and where you can vote as a college student.  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].  

This week Scott & Sean discuss:  Are political opponents really our enemies? We dive into a Wall Street Journal op-ed challenging partisanship and urging love across political lines.The ethics of emerging reproductive technologies like in-vitro gametogenesis (IVG) and the potential societal impacts.A New York Times article about humanity’s readiness for a world beyond IVF, asking if we're prepared for designer babies.How should we relate to "diverse intelligence" like AI, robots, and cyborgs? Listener questions tackle sensitive topics such as retirement from a biblical perspective and the emotional and spiritual challenges of male infertility (book mentioned: The Infertility Companion).  ========== Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.    Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.    To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at [email protected].