Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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