Apologetics Profile

In this week's Apologetics Profile, Brady Blevins visits with Holly Pivec for Part 2 of a discussion about Bethel Church of Redding, Calif. and its controversial leader, Pastor Bill Johnson. Bethel Redding was by far our #1 most requested Profile topic over the last several years. Questions raised included Bethel's ties to the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) and more recently the failed prophecies predicting Donald Trump's reelection by Kris Vallotton, Senior Associate Pastor at Bethel Church.This 11,000 member church having a major but problematic influence on Christianity throughout the US and worldwide. Johnson’s reach touches thousands of churches not otherwise associated with NAR through affiliated ministries including Bethel Music, Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry, and Bethel Leaders Network.Books and Profile Profile on Bill Johnson and Bethel, Redding, Watchman Fellowship 4-page Profile: https://www.watchman.org/ProfileBethelRedding.pdf A New Apostolic Reformation?: A Biblical Response to a Worldwide Movement, by R. Douglas Geivett and Holly Pivec: http://bit.ly/HollyPivec God’s Super-Apostles: Encountering the Worldwide Prophets and Apostles Movement, by R. Douglas Geivett and Holly Pivec: http://bit.ly/HollyPivec2 Holly Pivec a master’s degree in Christian apologetics from Biola University. She was the University Editor at Biola for nearly a decade and also served as managing editor of the award-winning Biola Magazine. Together with Biola professor Doug Geivett, she co-authored two books about NAR: A New Apostolic Reformation?: A Biblical Response to a Worldwide Movement and God’s Super-Apostles: Encountering the Worldwide Prophets and Apostles Movement (see links above). For more information, visit: www.hollypivec.comDr. Brady Blevins, Senior Apologist at Watchman Fellowship, is a speaker, writer and researcher for the ministry. He serves as Profile Editor and is frequent host of our Apologetics Profile podcast. He holds a BS in Bible and Pastoral Ministries from Arlington Baptist College, a MA in Counseling from Dallas Baptist University and a Doctorate in Educational Ministries from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is an ordained Baptist minister and a member of the International Society of Christian Apologetics (ISCA), and the Evangelical Press Association (EPA). For more information visit: www.watchman.org/staff/BradyBlevinsBio.pdf.Additional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week's Apologetics Profile, Brady Blevins sits down with Holly Pivec for Part 1 of a discussion about Bethel Church of Redding, Calif. and its controversial leader, Pastor Bill Johnson. Bethel Redding was by far our #1 most requested Profile topic over the last several years. Questions raised included Bethel's ties to the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) and more recently the failed prophecies predicting Donald Trump's reelection by Kris Vallotton, Senior Associate Pastor at Bethel ChurchThis 11,000 member church having a major but problematic influence on Christianity throughout the US and worldwide. Johnson’s reach touches thousands of churches not otherwise associated with NAR through affiliated ministries including Bethel Music, Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry, and Bethel Leaders Network.Books and Profile Profile on Bill Johnson and Bethel, Redding, Watchman Fellowship 4-page Profile: https://www.watchman.org/ProfileBethelRedding.pdf A New Apostolic Reformation?: A Biblical Response to a Worldwide Movement, by R. Douglas Geivett and Holly Pivec: http://bit.ly/HollyPivec God’s Super-Apostles: Encountering the Worldwide Prophets and Apostles Movement, by R. Douglas Geivett and Holly Pivec: http://bit.ly/HollyPivec2 Holly Pivec a master’s degree in Christian apologetics from Biola University. She was the University Editor at Biola for nearly a decade and also served as managing editor of the award-winning Biola Magazine. Together with Biola professor Doug Geivett, she co-authored two books about NAR: A New Apostolic Reformation?: A Biblical Response to a Worldwide Movement and God’s Super-Apostles: Encountering the Worldwide Prophets and Apostles Movement (see links above). For more information, visit: www.hollypivec.comDr. Brady Blevins, Senior Apologist at Watchman Fellowship, is a speaker, writer and researcher for the ministry. He serves as Profile Editor and is frequent host of our Apologetics Profile podcast. He holds a BS in Bible and Pastoral Ministries from Arlington Baptist College, a MA in Counseling from Dallas Baptist University and a Doctorate in Educational Ministries from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is an ordained Baptist minister and a member of the International Society of Christian Apologetics (ISCA), and the Evangelical Press Association (EPA). For more information visit: www.watchman.org/staff/BradyBlevinsBio.pdf.Additional ResourcesFREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

What are "deceitful philosophies"? The Bible exhorts us to be on guard against the empty and deceitful philosophies of men and the traditions and customs by which the world tempts and challenges us. Perhaps we can spot bad biblical doctrine, but what about counterfeit and deceitful philosophies? How does bad philosophy make inroads into our minds and become the norm? How do we know what is true? How can we test what is true? If our minds are just leftover stardust, if the universe is just a violent and chaotic place, if natural unguided forces and processes are finally what cobbled us together, then we shouldn't even trust our minds. Can we trust the secular sciences when they tell us what life is, what the cosmos means, and what we should do about our lives? Are we just stardust? Are we merely the universe come to life? Are our brains just an accidental byproduct of an impersonal nature?In order to counter the prevailing philosophies of our time, to proclaim truth, to make Christ known, we must understand and employ a Christ-centered philosophy in engaging our unbelieving neighbors. All truth belongs to God, wherever it may be found.On part 2 of our discussion with Christian philosopher Dr. Paul Gould, we unpack ways in which we can apply a Christ-centered philosophy in addressing the concerns of our time. What is truth? How do we know if what someone is telling us is true? Come along and let Dr. Gould encourage and equip you for our present sojourning through these times of uncertainty and confusion. And remember the worlds of the Apostle Paul in the 12th chapter of Romans "I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewign of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect" (Rom. 12:12). Additional Resources Paul Gould directs the Masters Program in Philosophy at Palm Beach Atlantic University: https://pbaschoolofministry.com/mastersphilosophyreligion/ Philosophy: A Christian Introduction, by James K. Dew and Paul M. Gould: http://bit.ly/PhilosophyIntro How Do We Know?: An Introduction to Epistemology, by James K. Dew and Mark W. Foreman: http://bit.ly/EpistemologyIntro. Four Views on Christianity and Philosophy, by Paul M. Gould and Richard Brian Davis (Editors): http://bit.ly/4ViewsBook The Story of the Cosmos: How the Heavens Declare the Glory of God, by Daniel Ray and Paul M. Gould (Editors): www.watchman.org/CosmosBook Dr. Paul M. Gould is the Associate Professor of Philosophy of Religion and Director of the M.A. Philosophy of Religion program at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Dr. Gould is the author or editor of ten scholarly and popular-level books including Cultural Apologetics, Philosophy: A Christian Introduction (Zondervan, 2019) and The Story of the Cosmos (Harvest House, 2019). He has been a visiting scholar at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School’s Henry Center, working on the intersection of science and faith, and is the founder and president of the Two Tasks Institute. He is a widely sought after speaker in apologetics and philosophy. He speaks regularly at universities, churches, and ministries around the country, including Summit Ministries, the C.S. Lewis Institute, and the Evangelical Philosophical Society’s annual apologetics conference. You can find out more about Dr. Gould and his work at www.paul-gould.com and www.twotasksinstitute.org. He is married to Ethel and has four children.Daniel Ray, Staff Apologist at Watchman Fellowship, is a speaker, writer, and podcast producer with the ministry. He holds a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Austin Peay State University and an MA in Cultural Apologetics from Houston Baptist University. He is coeditor and cowriter of The Story of the Cosmos, How the Heavens Declare the Glory of God. For more information: www.watchman.org/staff/DanielRayBio.pdf.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESFREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Why Do We Need Philosophy? Our guest this week and next on Apologetics Profile is Christian philosopher and author Dr. Paul Gould, who routinely gets asked this question.Dr. Gould believes that "philosophy is simply too important to give up on. Philosophy continues to play a vital role in our lives and in contemporary discussions on almost everything." And he is "not convinced that philosophy needs to be so difficult. Sure, there are a lot of philosophical issues that are difficult, but there are also a lot of issues that aren't that difficult."1 It is Dr. Gould's passion to make philosophy lucid, understandable, and Christ-centered. Isn't philosophy just a complicated discipline for academics? What relevance does it have for my faith? For the faith of my children or grandchildren? Must we get a degree in philosophy? Isn't the Bible enough? Dr. Gould addresses these and many other important philosophical topics in a very easy-to-understand, down-to-earth conversation with Watchman staff apologist Daniel Ray. He unpacks the relevance of philosophy for everyone, especially Christians.Now more than ever, truth seems to be in short supply. Bad philosophy is making the rounds, taking people captive, causing division, doubt and confusion, as we saw in our previous two episodes on Street Epistemology. Paul helps us to rediscover that in Christ Himself "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3). We must strive to counter bad philosophy "and empty deception according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ" (Col. 2:8). Philosophy is simply a Greek word meaning "the love of wisdom" (philo-sophia). The Bible has much to say about loving and embracing wisdom (Job 28; Proverbs 8; Colossians 2; 1 Corinthians 1; John 1). Dr. Gould helps us to understand how the best sort of philosophy is centered upon the Person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. So come and listen to Dr. Gould's very inspirational and practical advice about building and utilizing sound philosophy, all to the glory of God (1 Cor. 10:31).Additional Resources Paul directs the Masters Program in Philosophy at Palm Beach Atlantic University: https://pbaschoolofministry.com/mastersphilosophyreligion/ Philosophy: A Christian Introduction, by James K. Dew and Paul M. Gould: http://bit.ly/PhilosophyIntro How Do We Know?: An Introduction to Epistemology, by James K. Dew and Mark W. Foreman: http://bit.ly/EpistemologyIntro. Four Views on Christianity and Philosophy, by Paul M. Gould and Richard Brian Davis (Editors): http://bit.ly/4ViewsBook The Story of the Cosmos: How the Heavens Declare the Glory of God, by Daniel Ray and Paul M. Gould (Editors): www.watchman.org/CosmosBook Dr. Paul M. Gould is the Associate Professor of Philosophy of Religion and Director of the M.A. Philosophy of Religion program at Palm Beach Atlantic University. Dr. Gould is the author or editor of ten scholarly and popular-level books including Cultural Apologetics, Philosophy: A Christian Introduction (Zondervan, 2019) and The Story of the Cosmos (Harvest House, 2019). He has been a visiting scholar at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School’s Henry Center, working on the intersection of science and faith, and is the founder and president of the Two Tasks Institute. He is a widely sought after speaker in apologetics and philosophy. He speaks regularly at universities, churches, and ministries around the country, including Summit Ministries, the C.S. Lewis Institute, and the Evangelical Philosophical Society’s annual apologetics conference. You can find out more about Dr. Gould and his work at www.paul-gould.com and www.twotasksinstitute.org. He is married to Ethel and has four children.Daniel Ray, Staff Apologist at Watchman Fellowship, is a speaker, writer, and podcast producer with the ministry. He holds a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Austin Peay State University and an MA in Cultural Apologetics from Houston Baptist University. He is coeditor and cowriter of The Story of the Cosmos, How the Heavens Declare the Glory of God. For more information: www.watchman.org/staff/DanielRayBio.pdf.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESFREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.1 James K. Dew and Paul M. Gould, Philosophy A Christian Introduction (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2019), vii.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

[NOTE: This podcast is also available on video here: https://youtu.be/jvwhJpZiQZ8]On part two of our special two-part video and podcast episode of Peter Boghossian and Street Epistemology, Watchman Fellowship staff apologist Daniel Ray speaks with senior apologist Brady Blevins about how to recognize a street epistemology conversation and how we can and should respond. If you have children or grandchildren active on social media sharing their faith or if they are away at college, they are likely to encounter atheists using the tactics and techniques of street epistemology. In this day and time, where it seems truth is in short supply, it is more crucial than ever that we know why we believe what we believe. The difficult questions and challenges to our faith are on the rise. We must be prepared to give a defense for the hope that is in us with gentleness and reverence (1 Peter 3:15). Street epistemology is a growing, worldwide phenomena used by many atheists and skeptics for the purpose of getting believers to doubt and/or give up their faith altogether. On this episode you'll hear and see real-world examples of street epistemologists engaging people with their carefully crafted questions and we'll give you the practical and biblical tips and insights as to how you can respond. We have prepared a treasure trove of resources on this important topic. In addition to this podcast and video, we have prepared three additional videos on the topic as well as a four-page Profile on Peter Boghossian and Street Epistemology.STREET EPISTEMOLOGY RESOURCESDaniel has also written a 4-page Profile on Peter Boghossian and produced three additional videos on Street Epistemology for you to share with anyone you know who may have encountered SE online or at college. 4-page Profile on Peter Boghossian by Daniel Ray: www.watchman.org/SE Daniel's first review of street epistemology: https://youtu.be/_irb_8f0klc This video was reviewed by street epistemologists: https://youtu.be/FsJgmRyrsU0 Daniel's book review of How to Have Impossible Conversations: https://youtu.be/A1G1KTt1qgc This video was also reviewed by street epistemologists: https://youtu.be/0BfC9PME5a0 Daniel's third review of the street epistemologists' "confidence scale": https://youtu.be/ScHiMqtQE3U (The street epistemologist have not yet reviewed this video. Additional Christian Resources on Street Epistemology Christian philosopher Tim McGrew debating Peter Boghossian in 2013: http://bit.ly/TimMcGrew Apologist Tom Gilson's short e-book responding to Peter Boghossian and street epistemology, Peter Boghossian, Atheist Tactician : A Preliminary Response to A Manual for Creating Atheists: http://bit.ly/TomGilson Street epistemology videos featured in this podcast/video: Reid, Tia, and "Bible Class": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-M1EyhcRS8 Mamma Bear Mary Ann: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLN_3W8CTko Dan and Anthony: What Else is there but Faith?: https://youtu.be/OpwxM2wNChE Anthony Magnabosco speaking at the Black Nonbelievers Conference: https://youtu.be/hZJTScfX_2A Dr. Brady Blevins, Senior Apologist with Watchman Fellowship, is a featured speaker and writer with the ministry. He also serves as the editor of our Profile Notebook. He holds a BS in Bible and Pastoral Ministries from Arlington Baptist College, a MA in Counseling from Dallas Baptist University and a Doctorate in Educational Ministries from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. For more information: www.watchman.org/staff/BradyBlevinsBio.pdf.Daniel Ray, Staff Apologist at Watchman Fellowship, is a speaker, writer, and podcast producer with the ministry. He holds a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Austin Peay State University and an MA in Cultural Apologetics from Houston Baptist University. He is coeditor and cowriter of The Story of the Cosmos, How the Heavens Declare the Glory of God. For more information: www.watchman.org/staff/DanielRayBio.pdf.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESFREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

[NOTE: This podcast is also available on video here: https://youtu.be/fMUF_y9q1ew]Chances are, if you are actively sharing your faith on social media to any degree, or if you have children or grandchildren away at college, or if you're out for a stroll in a public park, you may have or will eventually encounter a "street epistemologist." What is street epistemology? It is a movement within the atheist and skeptic community which began from a 2013 book A Manual For Creating Atheists written by atheist and philosopher Peter Boghossian. Though Boghossian himself is no longer actively involved in the movement today, it nevertheless has remained a popular and growing trend among skeptics in engaging Christians and other theists in conversation with the intent to cause doubt and, as the book title says clearly, create atheists. Street Epistemology or SE for short, is a kind of dialectical method that incorporates carefully crafted Socratic-like questions about a Christian's level of confidence in their belief in God. The SE'er will ask several questions, without ever directly engaging in factual discussions about Christianity, but will instead ask specific philosophical questions about how and why a Christian holds to the confidence of their belief, with the intent of causing doubt. To this day, it remains a movement within the atheist and skeptic community, though many who practice SE will often converse about other topics such as karma, new age mysticism, other religions, politics, alternative medicines and many others. But the most popular videos on YouTube of SE practitioners are those where believers are suddenly questioning their beliefs within the span of a very brief conversation. Sadly, this method has had "success" in catching Christians unaware, many unprepared or simply unable to provide solid answers to the questions put to them, especially regarding the definition and use of the word "faith" which to this day remains a primary target of SE disciples. It is not a cult or a secret organization with a hierarchy of leadership, but an open and publicly practiced technique, complete with a comprehensive website (StreetEpistemology.com), YouTube videos, and a growing and influential social-media presence. On this special two-part episode, Watchman staff apologist Daniel Ray and Watchman Senior Apologist Brady Blevins take you inside the movement and give you a first-hand account of Peter Boghossian, the leading practitioners of SE, how to recognize it, and how to respond with confidence and truth. On Part 1 we examine the work and background of Peter Boghossian and talk about the basics of what SE is. STREET EPISTEMOLOGY RESOURCESDaniel has also written a 4-page Profile on Peter Boghossian and produced three additional videos on Street Epistemology for you to share with anyone you know who may have encountered SE online or at college. 4-page Profile on Peter Boghossian by Daniel Ray: www.watchman.org/SE Daniel's first review of street epistemology: https://youtu.be/_irb_8f0klc This video was reviewed by street epistemologists: https://youtu.be/FsJgmRyrsU0 Daniel's book review of How to Have Impossible Conversations: https://youtu.be/A1G1KTt1qgc This video was also reviewed by street epistemologists: https://youtu.be/0BfC9PME5a0 Daniel's third review of the street epistemologists' "confidence scale": https://youtu.be/ScHiMqtQE3U (The street epistemologist have not yet reviewed this video. Street epistemology videos featured in this podcast/video: Psychology Z factor (psychological aspects of SE) Dragoncon 2017 with Anthony Magnabosco: https://youtu.be/oYNcs6BtA-s Anthony Magnabosco on evidence and faith: https://youtu.be/VYrg-n04Sj8 Anthony Magnabosco unraveling Miguel’s faith: https://youtu.be/D8LYTy4DmEs Peter Boghossian at PSU in 2012: https://youtu.be/WIaPXtZpzBw Can SE hurt people? Objectively Dan: https://youtu.be/cmUS5oxRhB4 Dr. Brady Blevins, Senior Apologist with Watchman Fellowship, is a featured speaker and writer with the ministry. He also serves as the editor of our Profile Notebook. He holds a BS in Bible and Pastoral Ministries from Arlington Baptist College, a MA in Counseling from Dallas Baptist University and a Doctorate in Educational Ministries from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. For more information: www.watchman.org/staff/BradyBlevinsBio.pdf.Daniel Ray, Staff Apologist at Watchman Fellowship, is a speaker, writer, and podcast producer with the ministry. He holds a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Austin Peay State University and an MA in Cultural Apologetics from Houston Baptist University. He is coeditor and cowriter of The Story of the Cosmos, How the Heavens Declare the Glory of God. For more information: www.watchman.org/staff/DanielRayBio.pdf.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESFREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.

This week's episode of Apologetics Profile is the conclusion of a two part discussion on apologetics and evangelism featuring our Senior Apologist, Dr. Brady Blevins and staff apologist Daniel Ray. In this series, Daniel and Brady discuss practical principles of communication that we can apply to our personal Christian apologetics and relational evangelism.Dr. Brady Blevins, Senior Apologist with Watchman Fellowship, is a featured speaker and writer with the ministry. He also serves as the editor of our Profile Notebook. He holds a BS in Bible and Pastoral Ministries from Arlington Baptist College, a MA in Counseling from Dallas Baptist University and a Doctorate in Educational Ministries from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. For more information: www.watchman.org/staff/BradyBlevinsBio.pdf.Daniel Ray, Staff Apologist at Watchman Fellowship, is a speaker, writer, and podcast producer with the ministry. He holds a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Austin Peay State University and an MA in Cultural Apologetics from Houston Baptist University. He is coeditor and cowriter of The Story of the Cosmos, How the Heavens Declare the Glory of God. For more information: www.watchman.org/staff/DanielRayBio.pdf.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESSpurgeon’s Sorrows: Realistic Hope for those who Suffer from Depression, by Zack Eswine: https://amzn.to/3rw7ADDFREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

This week's episode of Apologetics Profile is the first of a two part discussion on apologetics and evangelism featuring our Senior Apologist, Dr. Brady Blevins and staff apologist Daniel Ray.Last week we concluded our discussion with professor of communication, Dr. Steven Beebee, about the legendary Christian apologist C.S. Lewis and the skills and techniques he used to be such an effective communicator. In this series, Daniel and Brady discuss practical principles of communication that we can apply to our personal Christian apologetics and relational evangelism.Dr. Brady Blevins, Senior Apologist with Watchman Fellowship, is a featured speaker and writer with the ministry. He also serves as the editor of our Profile Notebook. He holds a BS in Bible and Pastoral Ministries from Arlington Baptist College, a MA in Counseling from Dallas Baptist University and a Doctorate in Educational Ministries from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. For more information: www.watchman.org/staff/BradyBlevinsBio.pdf.Daniel Ray, Staff Apologist at Watchman Fellowship, is a speaker, writer, and podcast producer with the ministry. He holds a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Austin Peay State University and an MA in Cultural Apologetics from Houston Baptist University. He is coeditor and cowriter of The Story of the Cosmos, How the Heavens Declare the Glory of God. For more information: www.watchman.org/staff/DanielRayBio.pdf.ADDITIONAL RESOURCESSpurgeon’s Sorrows: Realistic Hope for those who Suffer from Depression, by Zack Eswine: https://amzn.to/3rw7ADDFREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Are we consciously aware of how we choose our words? Are we cognizant of what kind of tacit impressions our words have on others? Are we loving our neighbors in such a way that we can understand their language? Their experiences? Can we translate what we know to those who have little familiarity with what is so familiar to us? How can we effectively share the Gospel with those who are lost? How do we plant seeds? How do we water? How do we harvest? Shockingly, much of the work of evangelizing and discipleship is in wisely using our words. Jesus commands us to go into all the world, proclaiming His truth, but do we know the world well enough to be able to communicate effectively and redemptively with them? Do we have the right words? On part two of our conversation with professor of communication Dr. Steven A. Beebe, we explore more in depth about how C.S. Lewis’s conversion to Christianity equipped him with the remarkable ability to reach an enormously broad audience, even long after his death in 1963. How is it that Lewis could be such an effective communicator? How did his Christian faith inform the way in which he communicated and what can we learn in our own attempts at sharing Christ with others? From a small biscuit tin garden made by his brother to his trip to the Whipsnade Zoo in the sidecar of his brother’s motorcycle, to the prolific volumes of correspondence and professional writing, Lewis’s life stands as an example of the impact we can have if we too, by the grace of God, choose our words carefully.ABOUT STEVEN A. BEEBE: Dr. Beebe is Regents' and University Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Communication Studies at Texas State University. He served as Chair of his department at Texas State for 28 years and concurrently as Associate Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication for 25 years. Prior to joining the faculty at Texas State he was a tenured member of the Communication faculty at the University of Miami for 10 years. He is author and co-author of fourteen books (with editions totaling more than 75 books) that have been used at hundreds of colleges and universities (including international, Canadian, Russian and Chinese editions) by several million students throughout the world. Steve’s research focuses on instructional communication and communication skill development.ADDITIONAL RESOURCES C.S. Lewis and the Craft of Communication by Steven Beebe: www.cslewisandthecraftofcommunication.com. Dr. Beebe's author page on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2Ngo1VY FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

We at Watchman Fellowship are committed to helping and equipping the church to effectively communicate the Gospel to those of other religions and worldviews. But such communication is never really easy. The first step in being able to successfully articulate the Gospel is a relatively simple one, though -- Being familiar with the message. The second step is to know the language of your audience. Are they Mormons? Atheists? Muslims? Jehovah’s Witnesses? The wisdom and skill in effective communication is to be able to translate the message of the Gospel to your audience, using reason, imagination, metaphors, story, and parable, just as Jesus did. If you’ve ever tried sharing the Gospel with people, you have likely experienced the need to further clarify what you are trying to share to people unfamiliar with language that is familiar and common to you. How do you explain the atonement to atheists? The Trinity to Muslims? The Deity of Jesus to Jehovah’s Witnesses? On this special two-part episode with communications professor Dr. Steven A. Beebe, we look into the craft and techniques of communication used by C.S. Lewis. How have Lewis’s works become so widely popular and influential in communicating the Christian faith to people? What can we learn from Lewis as we try to communicate the truth of God’s word to a non-Christian world that neither understands nor accepts it? In part one, Dr. Beebe shares how he became interested in Lewis and how Lewis’s ability to communicate makes his readers feel that they have a genuine relationship with the author. ABOUT STEVEN A. BEEBE: Dr. Beebe is Regents' and University Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Communication Studies at Texas State University. He served as Chair of his department at Texas State for 28 years and concurrently as Associate Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication for 25 years. Prior to joining the faculty at Texas State he was a tenured member of the Communication faculty at the University of Miami for 10 years. He is author and co-author of fourteen books (with editions totaling more than 75 books) that have been used at hundreds of colleges and universities (including international, Canadian, Russian and Chinese editions) by several million students throughout the world. Steve’s research focuses on instructional communication and communication skill development.ADDITIONAL RESOURCES C.S. Lewis and the Craft of Communication by Steven Beebe: www.cslewisandthecraftofcommunication.com. Dr. Beebe's author page on Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2Ngo1VY FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In part two, Dr. Brady Blevins and Daniel Ray conclude their discussion of the controversy surrounding Bikram Yoga and its fugitive founder who fled the US refusing to pay a $7 million court-ordered judgement.Bikram Choudhury and his trademarked Bikram Yoga has attracted significant media scrutiny as accusations from former students and associates have multiplied. The media accounts mainly focused on these credible abuse allegations and on fact-checking questionable claims Choudhury has made about his past. This episode of Apologetics Profile goes beyond those concerns to examine the underlying doctrines and theology at the foundation of Bikram Yoga and to evaluate those beliefs from a Christian perspective.ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Our free 4-page Profile on Bikram Yoga by Brady Blevins: www.watchman.org/ProfileBikramYoga.pdf Our free 4-page Profile on Yoga by Robert Velarde: www.watchman.org/staff/jwalker/ProfileYoga.pdf "Yoga: Exercise or Religious Practice" by Brad Scott: www.watchman.org/articles/new-age/yoga--exercise-or-religious-practice/ Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator (Nov. 2019; Netflix Original Official Trailer on YouTube: www.bit.ly/BikramYouTube) FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, Dr. Brady Blevins and Daniel Ray discuss the controversy surrounding Bikram Yoga and its founder. Facing a warrant for his arrest from the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Bikram Choudhury, the guru who founded Bikram Yoga, has fled the United States refusing to pay a court-ordered judgement of about $7 million in damages. This judgement resulted from a wrongful termination and sexual harassment lawsuit filed by his former legal adviser, Minakshi Jafa-Boden. But as Daniel and Brady discovered, the legal, ethical and spiritual controversies surrounding Bikram Yoga go much deeper than this one lawsuit.ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Our free 4-page Profile on Bikram Yoga by Brady Blevins: www.watchman.org/ProfileBikramYoga.pdf Our free 4-page Profile on Yoga by Robert Velarde: www.watchman.org/staff/jwalker/ProfileYoga.pdf "Yoga: Exercise or Religious Practice" by Brad Scott: www.watchman.org/articles/new-age/yoga--exercise-or-religious-practice/ Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator (Nov. 2019; Netflix Original Official Trailer on YouTube: www.bit.ly/BikramYouTube) FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In part 2, James Walker continues his discussion with Naomi Wright about her unique journey out of a polygamous cult led by her father to faith in Jesus Christ. Her religion was a radical breakoff of a controversial sect founded by William Branham. Her father borrowed many of Branham's doctrines including "serpent seed," legalism, works-based salvation and anti-Trinitarianism then added in other elements from Oneness Pentecostalism. On this doctrinal foundation, he introduced the practice of polygamy and the claim that the group's leaders were immortal.ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Our free 4-page Profile on Branhamism by Phillip Arnn: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/branhamismprofile.pdf Our free 4-page Profile on Oneness Pentecostalism by Jason Barker: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/onenesspentecostalismprofile.pdf Naomi Wright Ministries (Official Website): www.NaomiWrightMinistries.com FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

James Walker interviews Naomi Wright about her unique journey out of a polygamous cult led by her father to faith in Jesus Christ. Her religion was a radical breakoff of a controversial sect founded by William Branham. Her father borrowed many of Branham's doctrines including "serpent seed," legalism, works-based salvation and anti-Trinitarianism then added in other elements from Oneness Pentecostalism. On this doctrinal foundation, he introduced the practice of polygamy and the claim that the group's leaders were immortal.ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Our free 4-page Profile on Branhamism by Phillip Arnn: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/branhamismprofile.pdf Our free 4-page Profile on Oneness Pentecostalism by Jason Barker: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/onenesspentecostalismprofile.pdf Naomi Wright Ministries (Official Website): www.NaomiWrightMinistries.com FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Daniel Grissom was one of Jehovah's Witnesses when he first connected with James Walker and the Watchman Fellowship ministry team. By God's grace, Daniel left the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society for the grace of Jesus Christ and now serves on our Board of Directors. In this episode (part two) we conclude our discussion. Daniel talks about the importance of discipleship and how to talk with the Jehovah's Witnesses when they knock on your door: Is the average Christian church equipped to help former Jehovah's Witnesses transition to the true gospel of the grace of Christ? What is one of the best questions we can ask a Jehovah's Witness? How can a "SEE" (significant emotional event) be a catalyst for spiritual transition? Besides the Bible, what one book helped Daniel clearly see the Jehovah's Witnesses errors? Why did Daniel join the leadership team as a board member at Watchman Fellowship? ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Our free 4-page Profile on the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society by Jason Barker: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/watchtowerprofile.pdf Jesus Is Not Your Mediator by Daniel Grissom (YouTube): https://youtu.be/upJtFKKw2vA Watchtower documentation for Jesus Is Not Your Mediator: www.watchman.org/mediator.pdf Crisis of Conscious by Raymond Frans, former Governing Body member of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society (594-pages): www.watchman.org/Crisis Ministry update from the Board of Directors by Daniel Grissom (video 2-min.): www.watchman.org/video FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this very short, special bonus edition of Apologetics Profile, Daniel Grissom shares a two-minute update about the future of our ministry. Daniel is a former Jehovah's Witness who serves on our Board of Directors.End-of-Year Ministry UpdateAs we come to the close of 2020, we are at a crossroads. Our ministry opportunities have never been higher but our donations have dropped drastically. Barring a miracle between now and the end of the year, our support will drop to a 20-year low. We are asking for your prayers and financial support to finish the year strong. We want to go into 2021 ready to maximize our calling and ministry. We want to continue: Training and sending missionary teams to Utah each year Reaching nonbelievers through our Atheist & Christian Book Club Publishing 4-page Profiles on cults and alternative religions Broadcasting two weekly podcasts: Good Heavens! and Apologetics Profile Hosting our Mormons in Transition monthly meetup for Latter-day Saints with questions Sharing the gospel with those of other faiths and religions (and much more!) We know many are now unable to support the ministry because of health, finances, or both. Believe me, we understand! For those who can help, now is the critical time. Your help is much needed and greatly appreciated.SUPPORT: If you are able to stand with us, please consider a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give. Every gift counts!Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Daniel Grissom was one of Jehovah's Witnesses when he first connected with James Walker and the Watchman Fellowship ministry team. Daniel left the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society for the grace of Jesus Christ and now serves on our Board of Directors. In part one of this discussion, Daniel shares his journey from the Kingdom Hall to the Kingdom of God: When he first got the knock at his front door, what attracted Daniel to listen to the Jehovah's Witnesses and initially embrace their teachings? What caused Daniel to mistake the Jehovah's Witnesses sincerity for their accuracy? Why is it difficult for former Jehovah's Witnesses to believe in Jesus even after they learn their religion was wrong? ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Our free 4-page Profile on the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society by Jason Barker: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/watchtowerprofile.pdf Jesus Is Not Your Mediator by Daniel Grissom (YouTube): https://youtu.be/upJtFKKw2vA Watchtower documentation for Jesus Is Not Your Mediator: www.watchman.org/mediator.pdf Crisis of Conscious by Raymond Frans, former Governing Body member of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society (594-pages): www.watchman.org/Crisis Ministry update from the Board of Directors by Daniel Grissom (video 2-min.): www.watchman.org/video FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week's episode Brady Blevins and Steve Matthews conclude their conversation about Kip McKean, World Missions Evangelist of the controversial International Christian Church (ICC). Brady and Steve address some questions underlying decades of criticism the the movement has received from Christian discernment ministries and secular cult-watch organizations: How can we distinguish between a strong commitment to Christian discipleship and inappropriate high-demand organizations which can foster spiritual abuse? To what degree and on what level should a "discipler" be given control of a follower's personal discussion-making? Does salvation require water baptism into a ICC-style "discipling" church? ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Our free 4-page Profile on the International Churches of Christ (ICC) by Steve Matthews and Brady Blevins: www.watchman.org/ICC Our original 4-page Profile on the Boston Church of Christ / International Churches of Christ (ICOC) by Rick Branch: www.watchman.org/Boston Our 4-page Profile on Spiritual Abuse by David Henke: www.watchman.org/Abuse FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week's episode Brady Blevins and Steve Matthews discuss Kip McKean, World Missions Evangelist of the controversial International Christian Church (ICC), a worldwide movement headquartered in Los Angeles. In part one of this two-part discussion we explore the history, growth and some of the criticisms directed at the organization that first began as an on campus discipling ministry of the Crossroads Church of Christ at the University of Florida in Gainesville.McKean became the world leader when the sect was known as the Boston Church of Christ and later as the group expanded its worldwide strategies under the name International Church of Christ (ICOC). In the midst of external and internal criticisms and calls for reform, McKean resigned from the ICOC later forming his rival organization, the ICC.The movement has been under fire for decades even being banned from major university campuses including "American University, the University of Lowell (Mass.), Birmingham University (United Kingdom), the University of Manchester (United Kingdom), Boston College, Marquette University, Boston University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the Georgia Institute of Technology, Harvard University, the University of London (United Kingdom), Vanderbilt University, the University of Miami, Northeastern University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Smith College, the United States Military Academy, the University of Southern California and York University (Canada)."1Why is the ICC so popular and what drives the criticisms? Brady and Steve discuss some of the controversies surrounding Kip McKean and the ICC including their theological distinctives and questionable discipleship practices.ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Our free 4-page Profile on the International Churches of Christ (ICC) by Steve Matthews and Brady Blevins: www.watchman.org/ICC Our original 4-page Profile on the Boston Church of Christ / International Churches of Christ (ICOC) by Rick Branch www.watchman.org/Boston Our 4-page Profile on Spiritual Abuse by David Henke: www.watchman.org/Abuse FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.1 John W. Morehead, "International Christian Churches: Disciples of Abuse?" www.apologeticsindex.org/i05.html

In this week's episode Daniel Ray and Dr. Luke Barnes conclude their discussion of the question "What is Scientism?" Science is fully compatible with the Christian worldview and for the most part has done much to expand knowledge and in most cases provided tremendous progress in advancing human wellbeing and flourishing. There is, however, a controversial philosophy of science that seems to be growing in popularity that can be called Scientism.In part two of their conversation, Daniel and Luke critique some assumptions and draw some conclusions on and questions raised by Scientism: Must science and religion be seen as in conflict? Has science disproven the existence of God? Is science the best or even only way to know truth? For anything to be true, does it have to be observable, testable, repeatable and peer reviewed? Luke A. Barnes is a theoretical astrophysicist, cosmologist, and postdoctoral researcher at Western Sydney University. He received his PhD in Astronomy from the University of Cambridge in 2009. He is a John Templeton Fellow. He has published papers in the fields of galaxy formation and the fine-tuning of the Universe for life. For more on Dr. Barnes, see his CV here: http://bit.ly/LukeBarnes ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Our free 4-page Profile on Scientism by Luke Barnes and Daniel Ray: www.watchman.org/Scientism A Fortunate Universe by Geraint Lewis and Luke Barnes: https://amzn.to/2GaGDDD The Cosmic Revolutionary's Handbook by Geraint Lewis and Luke Barnes: https://amzn.to/34FvXGD The Story of the Cosmos by Daniel Ray and Paul Gould: www.watchman.org/CosmosBook Scientism and Secularism: Learning to Respond to a Dangerous Ideology by JP Moreland: https://bit.ly/Scientism1 FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week's episode Daniel Ray and Dr. Luke Barnes explore the question "What is Scientism?" Science is fully compatible with the Christian worldview and for the most part has done much to expand knowledge and in most cases provided tremendous progress in advancing human wellbeing and flourishing. There is, however, a controversial philosophy of science that seems to be growing in popularity that can be called Scientism.In part one of this two-part conversation, Daniel and Luke discuss some of the assumptions made and questions raised by Scientism: Must science and religion be seen as in conflict? Has science disproven the existence of God? Is science the best or even only way to know truth? For anything to be true, does it have to be observable, testable, repeatable and peer reviewed? Luke A. Barnes is a theoretical astrophysicist, cosmologist, and postdoctoral researcher at Western Sydney University. He received his PhD in Astronomy from the University of Cambridge in 2009. He is a John Templeton Fellow. He has published papers in the fields of galaxy formation and the fine-tuning of the Universe for life. For more on Dr. Barnes, see his CV here: http://bit.ly/LukeBarnes ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Our free 4-page Profile on Scientism by Luke Barnes and Daniel Ray: www.watchman.org/Scientism A Fortunate Universe by Geraint Lewis and Luke Barnes: https://amzn.to/2GaGDDD The Cosmic Revolutionary's Handbook by Geraint Lewis and Luke Barnes: https://amzn.to/34FvXGD The Story of the Cosmos by Daniel Ray and Paul Gould: www.watchman.org/CosmosBook Scientism and Secularism: Learning to Respond to a Dangerous Ideology by JP Moreland: https://bit.ly/Scientism1 FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

British philosopher Mary Midgley suggests that evolutionary "theory itself has again and again been distorted by biases flowing from over-simple, unbalanced world-pictures. The trouble does not, of course, lie in mere wish-fulfilment of the obvious kind that paints the world as we should like it to be. It involves being obsessed by a picture so colorful and striking that it numbs thought about the evidence required to support it. Standards of proof fall headlong.” Midgley notes that there is an underlying assumption about evolution she calls “hypertrophied forms of cosmic optimism...” Essentially, the “cosmic optimism” is the idea that evolution is a kind of progress from “gas to genius,” that the future is one of guaranteed improvement of our species toward what Midgely calls “some superhuman spiritual stratosphere”. On part two of our discussion with Discovery Institute fellow Dr. Michael Keas, we explore the falsehoods and false hopes of the messianic-like blank check myth of our time. This myth suggests that either through the discovery of benevolent superintelligent extraterrestrial beings and/or sheer technological progress, mankind will eventually progress from his sullied and sad state of death, disease, and decay into a poorly defined "superhman spiritual stratosphere", a kind of "Singularity" as many futurists term it, where man and machine combine to produce a quasi kind of spiritual perfection and eternal existence.Will artificial intelligence or extraterrestrial intelligence save us? No, Keas reminds us. "The futuristic ET enlightenment myth and its terrestrial Singularity companion share a strong aversion to Christianity... Both ET and AI salvation are supposed to occur by technological good works, not by accepting the undeserved sacrificial gift of Jesus," Keas writes.We hope this episode will equip and encourage you to think biblically about the modern futuristic myths promulgated by science and give you the tools to respond to your secular friends, neighbors, and family members who may be caught up in the utopic-like hopes of modern science. As the Apostle Peter proclaims of the Lord Jesus Christ, "And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).For more information on Dr. Keas' work, you can visit his website at the Discovery Institute (https://www.discovery.org/p/keas/). We also encourage you to check out his latest book, Unbelievable - 7 Myths About the History and Future of Science and Religion (http://bit.ly/MikeKeas). FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

Welcome to this special combinded edition of our two podcasts, Good Heavens! (www.watchman.org/GoodHeavens) and Apologetics Profile (www.watchman.org/Podcast). This episode is a recent talk by Dr. Sarah Salviander's presenting her chapter on God and black holes from our book, The Story of the Cosmos - How the Heavens Declare the Glory of God (www.TheStoryOfTheCosmos.com).What is a black hole? Where are they? How were they discovered? How does the majesty, mystery, and enigma of black holes point to the glory of God? Come along on this special episode and find out!Dr. Sarah Salviander received her PhD in astrophysics from the University of Texas at Austin. She was a researcher at UT for sixteen years, where she specialized in the study of quasars, supermassive black holes, and galaxies. She is the author of several peer-reviewed journal papers and a comprehensive Astronomy & Astrophysics homeschool curriculum. She is currently writing books about the remarkable confluence between Christianity and modern science. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Watch the video edition of this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xi0CwpY5ICg The Story of the Cosmos book: www.watchman.org/CosmosBook The Story of the Cosmos online video course: www.watchman.org/CosmosCourse Dr. Salviander's Author Website: www.sarahsalviander.com Follow Sarah on Twitter: @SarahSalviander Sarah presented her talk at LifePoint Church in League City, Texas (South Houston) on October 21st, 2020, as part of their Wednesday Night "Unfiltered. Conversations that Matter" apologetics ministry. Thanks to Trevor Shakiba and Pastor Josh Sharpe for coordinating the event and for the assistance in the production of the video. You can visit the church’s website at https://golifepointchurch.org. LifePoint provided the audio and video. Daniel Ray of Watchman Fellowship edited and produced the final video. Daniel is also the co-editor and co-contributor to The Story of the Cosmos. FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

C.S. Lewis once wrote that there is a certain kind of “mythology that follows in the wake of science." A prescient insight for our time, as secular popularizers of science, with the awe, aura, and authority of science surrounding them, perpetuate many myths that are simply unsound on a multitude of levels; scientific, philosophical, historical, and theological just to name a few. On this two-part episode Daniel Ray sits down with Dr. Michael Newton Keas of the Discovery Institute (https://www.discovery.org/p/keas/) to talk about several of these modern myths that have come about in the "wake of science"; myths in relation to the interplay between science and religion, more specifically.We discuss his newest book, Unbelievable - 7 Myths About the History and Future of Science and Religion (http://bit.ly/MikeKeas). Dr. Keas outlines the predominant myths that are promulgated today, ideas he has heard in his over 25 years of teaching science at the university and collegiate levels. Keas exposes the falsehoods of these myths by providing a solid historical background for how they've grown and taken on a life of their own in the minds of popular culture.About Dr. Keas: "After earning a Ph.D. in the history of science from the University of Oklahoma, Mike Keas won research grants from such organizations as the National Science Foundation and the American Council of Learned Societies. He experienced some of the last historic moments behind the Berlin Wall as a Fulbright scholar in East Germany. Keas serves as lecturer in the history and philosophy of science at Biola University and on the board of directors of Ratio Christi, an alliance of apologetics clubs on college campuses."On part one, Dr. Keas provides the genesis of his book, discusses why we indeed have a special and unique purpose in the cosmos and we discuss the kind of salvific hope that undergirds many of the myths of our time. Watch a short presentation on science and religion (https://youtu.be/8zC8tOVLjdE) from Dr. Keas produced by the Gospel Coalition. For more information on Dr. Keas' work, be sure to visit his homepage at the Discovery Institute in the link above. FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

C.S. Lewis's The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe turned 70 this month (October 2020). In the midst of a difficult year of pandemics and politics, now is the perfect time to reacquaint yourself with C.S. Lewis's timeless classic. What's in your "spare oom" that can lead to adventures undreamt and unsought? BONUS EPISODE: Come along with us on this special edition broadcast which is a joint program of both Watchman Fellowship podcasts -- Good Heavens! and Apologetics Profile. In this show Daniel Ray celebrates the imaginative, cosmological, literary, and apologetic wonders of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe with C.S. Lewis scholar Dr. Michael Ward. Dr. Ward served as Daniel's master's thesis advisor at Houston Baptist University in 2016. Daniel is the first to have written a master's thesis on Dr. Ward's 2008 book, Planet Narnia - The Seven Heavens in the Imagination of C.S. Lewis. Michael is the author of several published works and scholarly articles about Lewis, the imagination, and theology. He has lectured in 30 of the 50 states, holds a doctorate of divinity from St. Andrews, and has made numerous radio, podcast, and television appearances. More on Michael's work can be found here and here. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Michael Ward with Eric Metaxas in conversation about Planet Narnia. Michael and others from around the world reading from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Laura Miller's book mentioned in the broadcast. The Magician's Book - A Skeptic's Adventure in Narnia. FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In part 2 Daniel Ray and Brady Blevins continue their discussion on the Ouija Board,* a controversial but extremely popular best-seller made by game and toy maker Hasbro.® Some of the questions they explore include: Is this a mere game or toy "for entertainment purposes" only? Why did the inventer argue in court that communicating through his "talking board" was actually a religious practice? Could it actually be a tool of the occult that allegedly allows a medium to contact the dead (necromancy), a practice clearly forbidden in the Bible (Deut. 18:10-12)? Why did it take an IRS lawsuit appealed all the way to the US Supreme Court for the Ouija to be classified as a game? BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Ouija Board Profile by Dr. Brady Blevins: www.watchman.org/Files/Profile_Ouija.pdf Occult Profile by James Walker: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/occultprofile.pdf FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.* Introduction audio excerpt courtesy "The Home of Horror," Paranormal Witness (Season 1 Episode 5): A family's use of a Ouija board brings an evil entity into their home, YouTube, July 17, 2019: https://youtu.be/lucRKtuCjtU

In this episode Daniel Ray and Brady Blevins discuss the Ouija Board, a controversial best-seller made by game and toy maker Hasbro®, from a Christian perspective. Some of the questions they address include: Is this a mere game or toy "for entertainment purposes" only? Why did the inventer argue in court that communicating through his "talking board" was actually a religious practice? Could it actually be a tool of the occult that allegedly allows a medium to contact the dead (necromancy), a practice clearly forbidden in the Bible (Deut. 18:10-12)? Why did it take an IRS lawsuit appealed all the way to the US Supreme Court for the Ouija to be classified as a game? BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Ouija Board Profile by Dr. Brady Blevins: www.watchman.org/Files/Profile_Ouija.pdf Occult Profile by James Walker: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/occultprofile.pdf FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.* Introduction audio excerpt courtesy "The Home of Horror," Paranormal Witness (Season 1 Episode 5): A family's use of a Ouija board brings an evil entity into their home, YouTube, July 17, 2019: https://youtu.be/lucRKtuCjtU

Founded by Keith Raniere, a quasi-religious group called NXVIM (pronounced NEX-ee-um) has been in the headlines following the arrests of Raniere, Smallville TV actress Allison Mack, and other leaders on charges of sex trafficking. Prosecutors and the FBI alleged women were coerced and blackmailed by Mack and other leaders to have sex with the group’s founder. Victims also claim to have been called "slaves" and branded with the letters "KR," Keith Raniere's initials. As more horrifying details emerged, investigators sought testimony from additional victims. "F.B.I. assistant director-in-charge William F. Sweeney called the operation a 'pyramid scheme' and asked for anyone who might have been a victim to come forward with any information."* Raniere, Mack and other leaders were subsequently convicted and imprisoned.In this week's episode, our Senior Apologist, Dr. Brady Blevins, interviews Frank Parlato of the Frank Report, a former NXVIM insider who became a chief whistle-blower. His testimony, documentation and evidence aided in the FBI's investigation leading to the arrests, indictments and prison sentences. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: NXVIM Profile by Dr. Brady Blevins: www.watchman.org/NXIVM.pdf Frank Report by Frank Parlato: www.frankreport.com FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.* Hilary Weaver, “This Keith Raniere Sex-Cult Story Is Much Deeper Than Allison Mack’s Arrest,” Vanity Fair, April, 2018: https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2018/04/allison-mack-arrested-in-connection-to-keith-raniere

How did an outdated New Age trend called the Enneagram become a wildly popular fad now sweeping through American Christianity? We address this phenomena in this week's Apologetics Profile. This is the final episode of our part two-part discussion on the Enneagram. This week we explore some additional questions related to the controversial history and practice of the Enneagram and the role played by one of its leading advocates, Richard Rohr. Who were the real architects of the Enneagram? What does Richard Rohr mean when he said that Christ is something "larger and older" than Jesus? What is Panentheism and is it compatible with a biblical worldview? Should the Enneagram be viewed as a harmless tool for personality assessment or does it pose a potential for spiritual danger? Can God "redeem" the Enneagram from its occult roots for His own purposes? To discuss these questions, James Walker, president of Watchman Fellowship, continues his interview with Marcia Montenegro and Don Veinot, two of the coauthors of the 2020 book, Richard Rohr and the Enneagram Secret. Marcia is also the author of our 4-page Profile on the Enneagram (see links below). BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Enneagram Profile by Marcia Montenegro: www.watchman.org/Enneagram.pdf Richard Rohr and the Enneagram Secret by Marcia Montenegro, Don Veinot and Joy Veinot: www.watchman.org/RohrBook Astrology Profile by Marcia Montenegro: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/astrologyprofile.pdf FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

How did a New Age “spirit guide” named Metatron help inspire the Enneagram, a major fad currently sweeping American Christianity? This is just one of the questions we address in this week's episode of Apologetics Profile. In part one of this two-part podcast, we explore some preliminary subjects related to the Enneagram’s controversial history and practice: What is the Enneagram and how does it work? Is the Enneagram based on ancient, forgotten Christian practices or is it rooted in 20th century occultism? Why has the Enneagram's secret origins made it so controversial? Should Christians use the Enneagram as a spiritual path to their “true self”? To discuss these questions, James Walker, president of Watchman Fellowship, interviews Marcia Montengro and Don Veinot, two of the coauthors of the 2020 book, Richard Rohr and the Enneagram Secret. Marcia is also the author of our 4-page Profile on the Enneagram (see links below). BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Enneagram Profile by Marcia Montenegro: www.watchman.org/Enneagram.pdf Richard Rohr and the Enneagram Secret by Marcia Montenegro, Don Veinot and Joy Veinot: www.watchman.org/RohrBook Astrology Profile by Marcia Montenegro: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/astrologyprofile.pdf FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

This week Daniel Ray continues his discussion with Christian apologist, philosopher and author, Dr. Douglas Groothuis about his book Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith. This book is a popular textbook at Christian colleges and seminaries, was winner of the 2012 Christianity Today Book Award of Merit.In part 2 of their discussion, Daniel and Doug explore some additional arguments for the Christian worldview put forward in the book and address some key questions: Are some atheists arguing that the best explanation for much of the universe is that there is no explanation for it? Should skepticism be the default position? How can we creatively and wisely relate to people who seem to be far away from the gospel? Why do Christians need to go beyond focusing on merely winning arguments? Douglas Groothuis is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society, Evangelical Philosophical Society, and Society of Christian Philosophers. Dr. Groothuis received a Ph.D. and a B.S. from the University of Oregon, and an MA in philosophy from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He has served as adjunct professor at Seattle Pacific University, visiting instructor in apologetics for Westminster Theological Seminary, and instructor at the University of Oregon. He is the author of ten books, including Truth Decay, Unmasking the New Age, On Jesus, On Pascal and In Defense of Natural Theology (coeditor and contributor). He has published two dozen academic articles in journals such as Religious Studies, Think, Inquiry, Sophia and Philosophia Christi.BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith, by Douglas Groothuis, IVP Books (2011), 752-pages: https://amzn.to/39olHDb Truth Decay: Defending Christianity Against the Challenges of Postmodernism, by Douglas Groothuis, IVP Books (2000), 303-pages: https://amzn.to/30Gk3cb Douglas Groothuis Website: https://douglasgroothuis.com/ FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free. SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week’s discussion, Daniel Ray talks with Christian apologist, philosopher and author, Dr. Douglas Groothuis about his book Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith. This book is a popular textbook at Christian colleges and seminaries, was winner of the 2012 Christianity Today Book Award of Merit.In their discussion Daniel and Doug discuss some of the arguments for the Christian worldview put forward in the book and address some key questions: Can the Christian worldview stand up to the experiences of human suffering? How do we get from a defense of objective truth and the key arguments for God to a case for the credibility of Jesus, the incarnation and the resurrection? Do alternative worldviews adequately explain morality? Douglas Groothuis is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society, Evangelical Philosophical Society, and Society of Christian Philosophers. Dr. Groothuis received a Ph.D. and a B.S. from the University of Oregon, and an MA in philosophy from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He has served as adjunct professor at Seattle Pacific University, visiting instructor in apologetics for Westminster Theological Seminary, and instructor at the University of Oregon. He is the author of ten books, including Truth Decay, Unmasking the New Age, On Jesus, On Pascal and In Defense of Natural Theology (coeditor and contributor). He has published two dozen academic articles in journals such as Religious Studies, Think, Inquiry, Sophia and Philosophia Christi.BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Christian Apologetics: A Comprehensive Case for Biblical Faith, by Douglas Groothuis, IVP Books (2011), 752-pages: https://amzn.to/39olHDb Truth Decay: Defending Christianity Against the Challenges of Postmodernism, by Douglas Groothuis, IVP Books (2000), 303-pages: https://amzn.to/30Gk3cb Douglas Groothuis Website: https://douglasgroothuis.com/ FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free. SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

This podcast is part two of a discussion about the significance and spiritual implications of an annual phenomena known as the Burning Man Festival. Burning Man Festival is a huge outdoor event that began in 1986 that now attracts tens of thousands of participants, known as "Burners," who gather to experience everything from decadence, drugs and promiscuity to art, music, and spiritual transformation.Is this a New Religion? It may be a mistake to characterize the festival as merely an opportunity for debauchery or an excuse to throw the ultimate wild party to end the summer. In some ways, Burning Man has begun to function as both a parody of religion as well as a surrogate for traditional religion.Lee Gilmore, author of Theater in a Crowded Fire: Ritual and Spirituality at Burning Man, explained, that "the biggest [misconceptions] is to brand Burning Man as nothing more than a giant party rife with intoxicants, nudity, and bald hedonism." While acknowledging all those practices are part of the festival, they are not central to the ultimate experience that is at the very least "spiritual" if not a "semi-religious cultural happening."*Listen in as Brady Blevins, Senior Apologist at Watchman Fellowship and Steve Matthews, author of our 4-page Profile on Burning Man, discuss some of the social, cultural and spiritual questions raised by Burning Man and other transformational festivals. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Burning Man Profile by Steve Matthews: https://www.watchman.org/burningman.pdf International Christian Church Profile by Steve Matthews and Brady Blevins: https://www.watchman.org/files/ProfileInternationalChristianChurch.pdf World Mission Society Church of God Profile by Steve Matthews: https://www.watchman.org/Files/Profile_WMSCOG.pdf FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.* Lee Gilmore, "Burning Man: Religious Event or Sheer Hedonism?" Religion Dispatches, June 16, 2010, http://religiondispatches.org/burning-man-religious-event-or-sheer-hedonism/Photo Credit: Andrew Wyatt, courtesy of burningman.org

This podcast is part one of a discussion about the significance and spiritual implications of an annual phenomena known as the Burning Man Festival. Burning Man Festival is a huge outdoor event that began in 1986 that now attracts tens of thousands of participants, known as "Burners," who gather to experience everything from decadence, drugs and promiscuity to art, music, and spiritual transformation.Is this a New Religion? It may be a mistake to characterize the festival as merely an opportunity for debauchery or an excuse to throw the ultimate wild party to end the summer. In some ways, Burning Man has begun to function as both a parody of religion as well as a surrogate for traditional religion.Lee Gilmore, author of Theater in a Crowded Fire: Ritual and Spirituality at Burning Man, explained, that "the biggest [misconceptions] is to brand Burning Man as nothing more than a giant party rife with intoxicants, nudity, and bald hedonism." While acknowledging all those practices are part of the festival, they are not central to the ultimate experience that is at the very least "spiritual" if not a "semi-religious cultural happening."*Listen in as Brady Blevins, Senior Apologist at Watchman Fellowship and Steve Matthews, author of our 4-page Profile on Burning Man, discuss some of the social, cultural and spiritual questions raised by Burning Man and other transformational festivals. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Burning Man Profile by Steve Matthews: https://www.watchman.org/burningman.pdf International Christian Church Profile by Steve Matthews and Brady Blevins: https://www.watchman.org/files/ProfileInternationalChristianChurch.pdf World Mission Society Church of God Profile by Steve Matthews: https://www.watchman.org/Files/Profile_WMSCOG.pdf FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.* Lee Gilmore, "Burning Man: Religious Event or Sheer Hedonism?" Religion Dispatches, June 16, 2010, http://religiondispatches.org/burning-man- religious-event-or-sheer-hedonism/Photo Credit: NK Guy, www.dezeen.com

In this week’s episode, Brady Blevins continues his discussion with Watchman Fellowship's president, James Walker, about his most recent book, What the Qur'an Really Teaches About Jesus. Islam may be the geopolitical issue of our lifetime. This book encourages and equips Christians to discuss the gospel of Jesus Christ with their Muslim coworkers, neighbors and friends.James is an ordained Baptist minister and holds a B.A. in Biblical Studies and an M.A. in Theology from Criswell College. In addition to his work at Watchman Fellowship, he teaches as an adjunct professor at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Arlington Baptist University. He is also cofounder of the Atheist & Christian Book Club, a monthly gathering of believers and skeptics respectfully discussing important books from both perspectives. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: What the Qur'an Really Teaches About Jesus, by James Walker (Harvest House, 240-pages) - Request a signed copy of the book here: www.watchman.org/Quran Islam Profile by James Walker: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/islamprofile.pdf Debate on Video - James Walker Vs Khalil Meek "Jesus Christ Prophet of Allah or Savior of the World? On DVD and streaming video for ANY donation here: www.watchman.org/IslamDebate FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free. SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week’s episode, Brady Blevins talks with Watchman Fellowship's president, James Walker, about his most recent book, What the Qur'an Really Teaches About Jesus. Islam may be the geopolitical issue of our lifetime. This book encourages and equips Christians to discuss the gospel of Jesus Christ with their Muslim coworkers, neighbors and friends.James is an ordained Baptist minister and holds a B.A. in Biblical Studies and an M.A. in Theology from Criswell College. In addition to his work at Watchman Fellowship, he teaches as an adjunct professor at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Arlington Baptist University. He is also cofounder of the Atheist & Christian Book Club, a monthly gathering of believers and skeptics respectfully discussing important books from both perspectives. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: What the Qur'an Really Teaches About Jesus, by James Walker (Harvest House, 240-pages) - Request a signed copy of the book here: www.watchman.org/Quran Islam Profile by James Walker: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/islamprofile.pdf Debate on Video - James Walker Vs Khalil Meek "Jesus Christ Prophet of Allah or Savior of the World? On DVD and streaming video for ANY donation here: www.watchman.org/IslamDebate FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free. SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

This episode is part 2 of Daniel Ray discussion with Dr. Rhyne Putman about his new book, When Doctrine Divides the People of God: An Evangelical Approach to Theological Diversity. Interpretations of the Bible and deeply held convictions often put Christians at odds. Where should we draw the line? Should we even draw lines? As evangelicals, we desire to be biblical — we want our doctrine to be rooted in the Bible, our lives to be guided by the Bible, and our disagreements to be resolved by the Bible. And yet, conflicts within our church communities continue to appear and seemingly multiply with time. Rhyne and Daniel explore some ways Christians can best demonstrate grace in disagreement while maintaining firmness in truth.Rhyne Putman serves on the Board of Directors at Watchman Fellowship and is the author of numerous Watchman Fellowship Profiles. He earned a B.A. from Williams Baptist College, an M.Div., Th.M. and Ph.D. from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (NOBTS). He has taught for over ten years at NOBTS where he serves as Associate Professor of Theology and Culture. Shortly after this interview was recorded, Dr. Putman announced that he would be returning to his alma mater, Williams Baptist University, as Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, Director of Worldview Formation and Professor of Christian Ministries. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Richard Dawkins Profile by Rhyne Putman: https://www.watchman.org/Dawkins.pdf Bart Ehrman Profile by Rhyne Putman: https://www.watchman.org/ProfileBartEhrman.pdf Sam Harris Profile by Rhyne Putman: https://www.watchman.org/files/ProfileSamHarris.pdf Eckhart Tolle Profile by Rhyne Putman: https://www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/eckharttolleprofile.pdf When Doctrine Divides the People of God: An Evangelical Approach to Theological Diversity, by Rhyne Putman (available at Amazon.com in Paperback or Kindle Editions: https://amzn.to/3hfLO1J). FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week’s episode, Daniel Ray talks with Dr. Rhyne Putman about his new book, When Doctrine Divides the People of God: An Evangelical Approach to Theological Diversity. Where should we draw the line? Should we even draw lines? As evangelicals, we desire to be biblical — we want our doctrine to be rooted in the Bible, our lives to be guided by the Bible, and our disagreements to be resolved by the Bible. And yet, conflicts within our church communities continue to appear and seemingly multiply with time. Interpretations of the Bible and deeply held convictions often put Christians at odds. Rhyne and Daniel discuss how Christians can best demonstrate grace in disagreement while maintaining firmness in truth.Rhyne Putman serves on the Board of Directors at Watchman Fellowship and is the author of numerous Watchman Fellowship Profiles. He earned a B.A. from Williams Baptist College, an M.Div., Th.M. and Ph.D. from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (NOBTS). He has taught for over ten years at NOBTS where he serves as Associate Professor of Theology and Culture. Shortly after this interview was recorded, Dr. Putman announced that he would be returning to his alma mater, Williams Baptist University, as Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, Director of Worldview Formation and Professor of Christian Ministries. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Richard Dawkins Profile by Rhyne Putman: https://www.watchman.org/Dawkins.pdf Bart Ehrman Profile by Rhyne Putman: https://www.watchman.org/ProfileBartEhrman.pdf Sam Harris Profile by Rhyne Putman: https://www.watchman.org/files/ProfileSamHarris.pdf Eckhart Tolle Profile by Rhyne Putman: https://www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/eckharttolleprofile.pdf When Doctrine Divides the People of God: An Evangelical Approach to Theological Diversity, by Rhyne Putman (available at Amazon.com in Paperback or Kindle Editions: https://amzn.to/3hfLO1J). FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

"It is an ancient Mariner,And he stoppeth one of three.'By thy long grey beard and glittering eye,Now wherefore stopp'st thou me?'"This is the opening stanza to Samuel Taylor Coleridge's 1798 poem The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, an epic saga of sin, remorse, regret and redemption set in the tale of an aged sailor, telling of his woes to someone about to enter into a wedding celebration. Why poetry in the midst of a pandemic, though? What does Coleridge have to say to us in 2020? Much in every way. In April of this year, several celebrities took turns reading The Rime of the Ancient Mariner online (https://bit.ly/Ancient_Mariner). It was a surprising success. As The Atlantic noted in May (https://bit.ly/TheAtlanticMag), it is a poem written in 1798 for people in 2020. Though over two centuries removed from our own, there appears within Coleridge's verse a timeless resonance with our own turbulent times. Indeed, poetry, parable, metaphor, and the imagination are absolutely essential for our ongoing defense of the Christian faith in the cultural darkness in which we find ourselves.On part two of my discussion with Malcolm Guite, we talk more about Coleridge's influence on Guite's thought and the important role imagination plays in our conversations about everything from moonlight to the glory of God. Malcolm Guite is an Anglican Priest and is the Chaplain of Girton College, Cambridge where he also teaches for the Divinity Faculty. He lectures widely in England and North America on theology and literature. Mr. Guite has published poetry, theology, and literary criticism, and worked as a librettist. His books include Word in the Wilderness, Faith, Hope and Poetry: Theology and the Poetic Imagination, and Mariner: A Voyage with Samuel Taylor Coleridge. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Malcolm Guite Blog: https://bit.ly/GuiteBlog A Spell in the Library, Malcolm Guite's YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/MalcolmGuite Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Poetry Foundation: https://bit.ly/SamuelColeridge FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

What role does the faculty of the imagination play in our defense of the Christian faith? Is the imagination inferior to logic and reason or is it a needful aspect in our engagement with contemporary culture? Consider the incredible popularity of the movies and TV drama series. We are storytellers, image bearers of our Creator, who delight in creating, whether it be stories, buildings, automobiles, or works of art or literature, we are constantly using our imagination, often without thinking about it.On this episode of Apologetics Profile, Watchman staff apologist Daniel Ray speaks with poet, priest, and author Malcolm Guite about the necessity of the imagination in cultivating a deeper understanding and appreciation for the world that God has created and for the way God communicates with us.In part one, we talk about how Malcolm became interested in poetry as a child and how the poetry and philosophy of the Romantic poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge played an integral role in Malcolm coming to faith in Christ. Malcolm Guite is an Anglican Priest and is the Chaplain of Girton College, Cambridge where he also teaches for the Divinity Faculty. He lectures widely in England and North America on theology and literature. Mr. Guite has published poetry, theology, and literary criticism, and worked as a librettist. His books include Word in the Wilderness, Faith, Hope and Poetry: Theology and the Poetic Imagination, and Mariner: A Voyage with Samuel Taylor Coleridge. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Malcolm Guite Blog: https://bit.ly/GuiteBlog A Spell in the Library, Malcolm Guite's YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/MalcolmGuite Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Poetry Foundation: https://bit.ly/SamuelColeridge FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week’s episode, Daniel Ray concludes his conversation with Dr. Robert M. Bowman Jr., by discussing his most recent book which compares some of the foundational truth claims of Christianity with those of Mormonism. Published earlier this year, Rob's book, Jesus' Resurrection and Joseph's Visions: Examining the Foundations of Christianity and Mormonism, compares the evidence for Jesus’ resurrection with the evidence for Joseph’s visions. Bowman demonstrates how the historical data confirm the truth of Jesus’ resurrection and that the accounts of Joseph Smith’s visions are historically unreliable.For Mormons who have doubts about their religion, this podcast will help them find a more reliable basis for faith in Christ. For Christians, this episode should provide a fresh angle on the historical evidence for the truth of Christianity.Robert Bowman is a former staff member at Watchman Fellowship and the author of numerous Watchman Fellowship Profiles. He earned a B.A. from California State University, an M.A. in Biblical Studies and Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in biblical studies at South African Theological Seminary. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Atheism Profile by Robert Bowman Jr.: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/atheismprofile.pdf Word Faith Movement Profile by Robert Bowman Jr.: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/wordfaithprofile.pdf The Shack Profile by Robert Bowman Jr.: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/shackprofile.pdf Faith Has Its Reasons: Integrative Approaches to Defending the Christian Faith, by Kenneth Boa and Robert Bowman Jr. (available at Amazon.com in Hardback or Kindle Editions: https://amzn.to/2YKeecD) Jesus' Resurrection and Joseph's Visions: Examining the Foundations of Christianity and Mormonism, by Robert M. Bowman Jr.: https://amzn.to/2zHH2Kz Putting Jesus in His Place: The Case for the Deity of Christ, by Robert Bowman Jr. and Ed Komoszewski (available at Amazon.com in Hardback or Kindle Editions: https://amzn.to/3d5KqMU) The Faith Thinker, Dr. Bowman's Blog: https://robertbowman.net/ FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week’s episode, Daniel Ray talks with Dr. Robert M. Bowman Jr., coauthor of the book Faith Has Its Reasons. In part one, they discuss the four major approaches to Christian apologetics laid out in this book. These four basic categories are Classical, Evidential, Reformed, and Fedeist. Does faith have its reasons? Why Christians believe and how they share that faith with nonbelievers is largely determined which kind of apologetics they embrace. What are the strengths and weaknesses of each approach?Rob Bowman is a former staff member at Watchman Fellowship and the author of numerous Watchman Fellowship Profiles. He earned a B.A. from California State University, an M.A. in Biblical Studies and Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in biblical studies at South African Theological Seminary.Dr. Bowman's latest book, Jesus' Resurrection and Joseph's Visions: Examining the Foundations of Christianity and Mormonism (2020), is the subject of part two of this interview featured in next week's podcast. Stay tuned! BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: Atheism Profile by Robert Bowman Jr.: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/atheismprofile.pdf Word Faith Movement Profile by Robert Bowman Jr.: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/wordfaithprofile.pdf The Shack Profile by Robert Bowman Jr.: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/shackprofile.pdf Faith Has Its Reasons: Integrative Approaches to Defending the Christian Faith, by Kenneth Boa and Robert Bowman Jr. (available at Amazon.com in Hardback or Kindle Editions: https://amzn.to/2YKeecD) Jesus' Resurrection and Joseph's Visions: Examining the Foundations of Christianity and Mormonism, by Robert M. Bowman Jr.: https://amzn.to/2zHH2Kz Putting Jesus in His Place: The Case for the Deity of Christ, by Robert Bowman Jr. and Ed Komoszewski (available at Amazon.com in Hardback or Kindle Editions: https://amzn.to/3d5KqMU) The Faith Thinker, Dr. Bowman's Blog: https://robertbowman.net/ FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week’s episode, Daniel Ray continues his conversation with Justin Bass about his 2020 book, The Bedrock of Christianity: The Unalterable Facts of Jesus’ Death and Resurrection.Dr. Bass completed his undergraduate degree at SMU’s Cox School of Business then earned a ThM in Theology and a PhD in New Testament Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary. He currently works at an NGO in Amman, Jordan serving Christian and Muslim refugees fleeing ISIS. He is also professor of New Testament at Jordan Evangelical Theological Seminary (JETS) and author of The Battle for the Keys: Revelation 1:18 and Christ’s Descent to the Underworld. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: The Bedrock of Christianity: The Unalterable Facts of Jesus’ Death and Resurrection(2020), by Justin Bass: https://bit.ly/JustinBassBk The Battle for the Keys: Revelation 1:18 and Christ’s Descent to the Underworld (2014), by Justin Bass: https://bit.ly/JBassBook2 Justin Bass, “Why Western Intellectuals Are Dreaming Christian Dreams,” The Gospel Coalition, (May 15, 2020), https://uhop.me/JustinBassGC Jordan Evangelical Theological Seminary (JETS), Amman, Jordan: www.jets.edu FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this week’s episode, Daniel Ray, staff apologist of Watchman Fellowship, interviews Dr. Justin Bass, author of The Bedrock of Christianity: The Unalterable Facts of Jesus’ Death and Resurrection. Dr. Bass completed his undergraduate degree at SMU’s Cox School of Business then earned a ThM in Theology and a PhD in New Testament Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary. He currently works at an NGO in Amman, Jordan serving Christian and Muslim refugees fleeing ISIS. He is also professor of New Testament at Jordan Evangelical Theological Seminary (JETS) and author of The Battle for the Keys: Revelation 1:18 and Christ’s Descent to the Underworld.In part one of this interview, Justin recounts his unexpected journey to belief in Christ, his passion to defend the Christian faith, and his calling to serve and teach in the middle east. BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: The Bedrock of Christianity: The Unalterable Facts of Jesus’ Death and Resurrection(2020), by Justin Bass: https://bit.ly/JustinBassBk The Battle for the Keys: Revelation 1:18 and Christ’s Descent to the Underworld (2014), by Justin Bass: https://bit.ly/JBassBook2 Justin Bass, “Why Western Intellectuals Are Dreaming Christian Dreams,” The Gospel Coalition, (May 15, 2020), https://uhop.me/JustinBassGC Jordan Evangelical Theological Seminary (JETS), Amman, Jordan: www.jets.edu FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, James Walker and Daniel Ray interview Dr. Gary Habermas, Distinguished Research Professor of Apologetics and Philosophy at Liberty University. The conversation explores some of the mysteries and controversy surrounding Near Death Experiences (NDE).Dr. Habermas is a Christian apologist who is recognized as one of the world’s leading experts on the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He has also studied the phenomena of NDE – human consciousness and awareness experienced in subjects during clinical death followed by resuscitation. This podcast unpacks some of the latest developments in the emerging field of NDE studies and address some provocative questions, including: What is Near Death Experience? Is the field of NDE studies somehow related to resurrection scholarship? Can virtually all NDE accounts be explained by either hallucination or fraud? While most NDEs are “unevidenced,” what are some documented examples of “evidenced” NDE reports? How trustworthy and consistent are the “evidenced” NDE accounts that are being documented in the current literature? BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources: VIDEO — You may also watch this Podcast here: www.watchman.org/NDE Beyond Death, by Gary Habermas and J.P. Moreland: https://amzn.to/3dgj5bJ In Defense of Miracles, by R. Douglas Geivett and Gary Habermas: https://amzn.to/2Xf5A6v Miracles: The Credibility of the New Testament Accounts, by Greg Keener: https://amzn.to/3epe294 FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship. Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, James Walker continues his interview with Sandra Tanner, great-great-granddaughter of the Mormon Prophet Brigham Young. Sandra left the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and became an evangelical Christian. She and her late husband, Jerald, have been recognized as some of the world's leading critics of early Mormon history and theology. Together, they founded Utah Lighthouse Ministry in downtown Salt Lake City, a Christian outreach to Latter-day Saints that Sandra directs. PART 2 of 2 - The Changing World of Mormonism: In part two of this interview, James and Sandra discuss some of the major changes in the doctrines and scriptures of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Why were all black people denied entrance into the Mormon temple before 1978? When and why did Mormons discontinue the doctrine of polygamy or "plural wives"? When did "Mormon" become a bad word to Latter-day Saints? What are some of the other recent changes in LDS practices and policies? BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources from Watchman Fellowship and Utah Lighthouse Ministry: Watchman Fellowship's Profile on The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/ldsprofile.pdf Utah Lighthouse Ministry: www.utlm.org Witnessing to Mormons with the Book of Mormon -- James Walker speaking at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary: www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfgURrzhdmc FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, James Walker interviews Sandra Tanner, a great-great-granddaughter of the Mormon Prophet Brigham Young. Sandra left the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and became an evangelical Christian. She and her late husband, Jerald, have been recognized as some of the world's leading critics of early Mormon history and theology. Together, they founded Utah Lighthouse Ministry in downtown Salt Lake City, a Christian outreach to Latter-day Saints that Sandra directs. PART 1 of 2 - Sandra Tanner's Testimony: In part one of this interview, Sandra chronicles her amazing journey from Mormonism to Christianity. What caused her to have a crisis of faith? Why did she ultimately decide to leave? What does she believe now?BONUS LINKS: Here are some additional resources from Watchman Fellowship and Utah Lighthouse Ministry: Watchman Fellowship's Profile on The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/ldsprofile.pdf Utah Lighthouse Ministry: www.utlm.org FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, Daniel Ray and Brady Blevins discuss psychic divination and necromancy (communication with the dead) from a Christian perspective.PART 2 of 2: Why does the Bible forbid communication with the dead? How do psychics apparently know so many details about their clients deceased family members? Psychics often rely on fakery but can they in some cases make actual contact with real, evil beings?BONUS PROFILES: Watchman Fellowship has published a collection of our 4-page Profiles critiquing popular psychics in contemporary culture. We are making them all available along with some related content for free this month here: Psychics: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/psychicsprofile.pdf Occult: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/occultprofile.pdf Channeling: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/channelingprofile.pdf John Edward: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/johnedwardprofile.pdf James Van Praagh: www.watchman.org/staff/jwalker/ProfileVanPraagh.pdf Long Island Medium: www.watchman.org/staff/jwalker/ProfileLongIslandMedium.pdf Kelly and Michael Clip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzxCkGxipyI FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, Daniel Ray and Brady Blevins discuss psychic divination and necromancy (communication with the dead) from a Christian perspective.PART 1 of 2: Why does the Bible forbid communication with the dead? How do psychics apparently know so many details about their clients deceased family members? Psychics often rely on fakery but can they in some cases make actual contact with real, evil beings?BONUS PROFILES: Watchman Fellowship has published a collection of our 4-page Profiles critiquing popular psychics in contemporary culture. We are making them all available along with some related content for free this month here: Psychics: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/psychicsprofile.pdf Occult: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/occultprofile.pdf Channeling: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/channelingprofile.pdf John Edward: www.watchman.org/profiles/pdf/johnedwardprofile.pdf James Van Praagh: www.watchman.org/staff/jwalker/ProfileVanPraagh.pdf Long Island Medium: www.watchman.org/staff/jwalker/ProfileLongIslandMedium.pdf Kelly and Michael Clip: www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzxCkGxipyI FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode, Daniel Ray, Staff Apologist at Watchman Fellowship, interviews Rich Day about the controversial religious group known as the Black Hebrew Israelites. Recently under fire by the media, the group has been linked, probably unfairly, to last year's Jersey City shooting. The history and theology behind this loosely connected collection of organizations is fascinating and certainly unorthodox. Rich Day gives you a Christian critique of the background and insights into their unusual beliefs.BONUS: Rich Day has also authored our 4-page Watchman Fellowship Profile on the movement. We are making it available for free this month here: www.watchman.org/files/ProfileBlackHebrewIsraelites.pdf.FREE: We are also offering a free subscription to our bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.SUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Join the Apologetics Profile podcast team for as little as $1 here: www.patreon.com/WatchmanFellowship.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman FellowshipFor more information, visit www.watchman.org © Watchman Fellowship, Inc.