Thrive Theology: Recent Episodes
Emily Bain & Bethany Parr
Emily & Bethany equip you to live thoughtfully as a Christian by discussing & teaching various theological topics. We believe every Christian is called to be a theologian because theology isn't just knowing about God, but knowing His heart.
We know this isn't the podcast episode you were expecting. And to be honest, neither were we. But our lives have had some (good) changes and we want to share a bit out what the Holy Spirit has been doing in our lives.
Bible teaching resources:
• BibleThinker (Mike Winger)
• BibleProject & Classroom
• Exploring My Strange Bible podcast
Apologetics resources:
• Alisa Childers podcast
• Unbelievable? podcast
• Stand to Reason (Greg Koukl)
Christianity & culture resources:
• Holy Post podcast
• History of the Early Church podcast
Lifestyle, theology, & Bible teaching:
• Phylicia Masonheimer
• John Mark Comer Teachings podcast & Practicing the Way website
• Unquenchable podcast by Pray Through It Ministries
Book:
• Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Remember” by Nettson
As season 4 of the Thrive Theology podcast draws to a close, we wanted to take some time for a more casual chat and review the last few months of podcast episodes. We discuss our favourite episodes, why researching the social justice series was difficult, and what we're looking forward to about season 5 (and give you a sneak peek of what's coming in February!).
See you in February 2022!
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Email us with your episode topic ideas: thrivetheology@gmail.com
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Blue Sky” by IULI MAI
If you grew up in the evangelical world of North America, there's a good chance you attended a Christian event at some point that involved an altar call, complete with a passionate plea for repentance and emotionally evocative music. In the final episode of our series on soteriology, we discuss the history of altar calls and why they were disputed in the early stages of evangelicalism. We also discuss the benefits and problems with the idea of "asking Jesus into your heart" and explain the different viewpoints of whether someone can lose their salvation.
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Recommended resources:
• "Basics of Calvinism: TULIP Explained" episode 47
• "The Basics of Arminianism" episode 79
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Vacation” by Free Music
In part two of our series on the doctrine of salvation, we take a look at different atonement theories and how Calvinism and Arminianism both answer the question of how God's sovereignty works with man's free will to achieve salvation. Plus, we take a close look at the history of the "born again" phraseology in the modern evangelical movement and discuss its impact on the North American church.
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Recommended resources:
• “Penal Substitution, Christus Victor, and Other Atonement Theories” episode 65
• Atonement series from the After Class Podcast
• "Free Will, Foreknowledge, and the Problem with Open Theism" episode 55
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Slave” by IULI MAI
C. S. Lewis once said that what makes Christianity different from all other religions is God's grace towards us. For this first episode in our three-part series on the doctrine of salvation, we discuss the doctrines of redemption, justification, and sanctification. Also, is baptism required for salvation? And does a person have to actually make a decision to be saved?
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Recommended resources:
• Jesus in the Sacrifices of the Old Testament (Mike Winger video)
• Baptism: Infant vs. Adult (Thrive Theology ep. 50)
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Ambient Presentation” by Free Music
Perhaps best known for his sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," Jonathan Edwards is the feature historic figure of this week's podcast episode. He was a devoted Calvinist theologian and preacher, becoming a significant leader in the Great Awakening because of his vocation. He was also a wonderful husband and father, but his life was not without its blindspots.
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Recommended resource:
• "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" sermon by Jonathan Edwards (audio)
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Forever” by Johny Grimes
Have you ever wondered how preaching & sermons became the focal point of the Protestant Church? Starting with the Middle Ages, we explore the history of preaching in the Church—from how the Reformation forever changed the focus of religious assemblies to the technology that profoundly shaped evangelism in the 1800s.
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Recommended resource:
• "The Reformation of Preaching: Transformations of Worship Soundscapes in Early Modern Germany and Switzerland" by Dr. Barbara Pitkin
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Gold Autumn” by WM Music
If you've been listening for a while, you know that Emily & Bethany have walked very different paths regarding marriage and singleness. In this episode, Bethany shares what she's learned about walking with the Lord through her season of singleness, and they both discuss the different lies that singles believe and truths to replace them. We hope you're encouraged by this episode—whether you're single or married.
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Recommended resources:
• "TSF Q&A: Singleness" from That Sounds Fun podcast by Annie F. Downs
• "Singleness – The Biblical Guidelines" by Tim & Kathy Keller
Music: Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Senseless” by Johny Grimes
The Trinity has always been difficult to define, and heresies about the nature of the Trinity started gaining popularity as early as the second century. We establish the traditional orthodox view of the Trinity, then give the background and beliefs of the various heretical descriptions about the Trinity and the two natures of Christ.
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Recommended resources:
• By Faith: Justin Martyr & Irenaeus (Thrive Theology ep. 64)
• How the Creeds Stood Against Gnosticism & Other Heresies (Thrive Theology ep. 104)
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Inspirational Cinematic Piano and Strings” by AShamaluevMusic
We’re back with the second part of our interview with Lisa Hensley to discuss the ideas of biblical manhood & womanhood. Is this something that’s as clear in Scripture as we think, or is there more to it? We discuss the cultural blinders that both complementarians and egalitarians carry into popular gender passages of the Bible. Plus, Emily & Bethany share the story of strangers crashing their church service to rebuke the “Jezebel spirit” in the congregation and Lisa shares her thoughts on whether women in leadership pose a threat to Christian orthodoxy.
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Recommended resources:
• Lisa's Instagram profile
• Half the Church by Carolyn Custis James
• Recovering from Manhood and Womanhood by Aimee Byrd
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Remember” by Nettson
Whether you’re complementarian or egalitarian, asking the right questions about women in church leadership roles is important. Lisa Hensley joins us to discuss some of the most common objections to women in leadership positions, including “Adam was made first,” “Women are more emotional,” and “What about Eve being deceived?” Lisa also explains why the eternal subordination of the Son (ESS) heresy is dangerous & how it’s linked to hyper-complementarianism, as well as whether husbands will have to answer for their wives on Judgment Day and what this means for women.
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Recommended resources:
• Lisa's Instagram profile
• "Resources for a Discussion on 1 Timothy 2" from Lisa Hensley
• "Worthy" by Eric Schumacher & Elyse Fitzpatrick
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “You & Me” by Domiko
Sometimes Christians tend to use the Bible to attack socialism, not capitalism; but the truth is, the Bible really supports neither. In this week's episode, we discuss how the Bible doesn't side with a particular socio-economic model, whether or not the Bible supports repenting for cultural sins, and how to read the parable of the good Samaritan in light of first-century racial tensions.
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Recommended resources:
• “Forging a More Civil Democracy: a Discussion about Faith, Values, and Politics” Baker Institute (video)
• "Race In America" & "Race In America: 4 Big Questions" by Phil Vischer
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” by AShamaluevMusic & “Inspiring Corporate” by Free Music
When we think of justice, we often think of retributive justice–punishing someone for a crime done. But Scripture spends a lot of time talking about restorative justice. God is clear that justice and righteousness go hand-in-hand; we cannot be in right relationship with God and others without creating and maintaining justice. In God's ideal economy of ancient Israel, we find His heart for justice; and it doesn't look like any of our modern economic models, regardless of where you land in your socio-economic views.
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Recommended resources:
• "Justice" video by the Bible Project
• "What Is Biblical Justice?" by Tim Keller (Relevant Magazine)
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaluevMusic & “Blue Sky” by IULI MAI
Throughout Christian history, there have been various events that have shaped the doctrines we know today. The Protestant Reformation that began in 1517 is one of those: it gave way to the "five solaes" that have become core doctrine in the majority of Protestant denominations today. In this episode, we discuss the different Roman Catholic Church heresies the five solaes were formed to contradict, as well as a review of the history of the Reformation.
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Recommended resources:
• “The Five Solas” (ReformationBibleCollege.com)
• Sermon series on the five solas: part one, part two, part three, part four, part five, & part six (Christ Covenant Fellowship)
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaluevMusic & “Vacation” by Free Music
In a lovely post script to our series on the image of God, we have the honour of telling the story of Corrie ten Boom, World War 2 resistance worker, concentration camp survivor, and Christ-proclaimer. She is a beautiful example of what a heart submitted to Christ and earnest about loving His people looks like and how it can be a blessing to the world. Join us as we walk through her life and the legacy of godliness she left.
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Recommended resources:
• The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom & Elizabeth Sherrill
• Tramp for the Lord by Corrie ten Boom
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaluevMusic, “Ambient Presentation” by Free Music, & “Gold Autumn” by WM Music
In the final instalment of our series on the image of God, we explore five more perspectives on the image of God and how humans actually represent God on the earth. We also take some time to discuss how Jesus affirmed the image of God in every person He met, especially to the “least of these.” We conclude by sharing some of our own final thoughts on what we’ve learned about the image of God and what it means for us as believers in Christ.
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Recommended resources:
• “Image of God” podcast series (BibleProject.com)
• “Imago Dei and Cultural Mandate with Russell Moore” podcast episode of Knowing Faith Podcast
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaluevMusic & “Forever” by Johny Grimes
In part two of our series on the image of God, we explore what it means for Jesus to be the true image of God and our example to follow. We also dip our toes in the gender conversation. Many wouldn’t say that women are lesser images of God than men, but unfortunately, there are theological viewpoints that inadvertently teach this. We finish up by introducing our first view of the imago Dei and discuss how an extreme version of it could allow Christians to passively sit back through the slave trade, the Holocaust, and abortion.
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Recommended resources:
• Lisa Hensley’s “Gender” highlights on Instagram
• “Imago Dei in Christianity: The Various Approaches” by David K. Tarus (copy & paste in scholar.google.com)
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaluevMusic & “Gold Autumn” by WM Music
We’re kicking off season 4 of the podcast with a 3-part series on the image of God. In this episode, we explain why pagan kings and rulers were feared and worshipped by their citizens & courts, why Israel’s golden calf wasn’t as simple as trying to just replace Yahweh, and why humanity’s sin against God hasn’t only been that we view ourselves as more than God created us to be, but also less than He created us to be.
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Recommended resources:
• “The Image of God: Fallen and Restored” (KnowingScripture.com)
• “Image of God” (Theopedia)
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaluevMusic & “Senseless” by Johny Grimes
Update! An important announcement regarding the new release schedule for the Thrive Theology podcast, plus we share which episodes have been our favourite to record, as well as some of our personal podcast listening recommendations.
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Favourite Thrive Theology episodes:
• 32. What's the Deal with Denominations? (Oct. 2019)
• 44. The Holy Spirit Pt. 2 (Jan. 2020)
• 54. COVID-19, Spiritual Revival, & the Kansas City Chiefs (Mar. 2020)
• 71. Head Coverings Pt. 1: Greek & Roman Customs (Sep. 2020)
• 77. Bethel & the New Apostolic Reformation - Word of Faith Pt. 2 (Oct. 2020)
• 94. Rules for Worship: the Regulative vs. Normative Principle of Worship (Mar. 2021)
Other podcast recommendations:
• BibleProject Podcast
• Exploring My Strange Bible by Tim Mackie
• After Class Podcast
• Unquenchable podcast
• Holy Post podcast
• Verity with Phylicia Masonheimer
• Theology in the Raw with Preston Sprinkle
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaluevMusic
In our final part of this series, we talk about covenant theology and what it means for us in the Church today. We take an in-depth look at the history of covenantal theology and the role the Reformation played in its development, as well as whether the sign of the New Covenant is the Cross or the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the two versions of covenant theology, and how covenantal theology changes the symbolic meaning of baptism.
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Recommended resources:
• "Covenant Theology vs. Dispensational Theology" (Thrive Theology podcast ep. 52)
• "What Is Dispensationalism" (Verity by Phylicia Masonheimer podcast)
• "A Brief History of Modern Israel" & "Israel in the Old Testament" (After Class podcast season 4, episodes 24 & 25)
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" & “Inspirational Cinematic Piano and Strings” by AShamaluevMusic
In this episode, we do a deep dive into the covenant that God made to David regarding his family line. We work our way through the succession of the royal family and explore God's faithfulness despite some very evil kings. We also look at how the line of kings gets progressively worse, the story of a power-hungry queen mother who murders her grandchildren to keep the throne, and the king who foolishly showed visiting Babylonian dignitaries his wealth.
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Recommended resources:
• "Covenants: the Backbone of the Bible" (BibleProject.com)
• "The Davidic Covenant" (Ligonier.org)
Music: Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaleuvMusic & “Slave” by IULI MAI (Creative Commons)
This week, we pick up where we left off with the covenant that God made with Abraham. We continue to follow the story through Abraham's son Isaac and grandson Jacob. Then we jump ahead 400 years to Moses & the covenant God makes with Israel through him. We also explain why this covenant is conditional, unlike some earlier covenants.
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Recommended resources:
• What is the Mosaic Covenant? (GotQuestions.org)
• Paradise to Prison: Studies in Genesis by John J. Davis
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaleuvMusic & “Inspiring Corporate” by Free Music
We kick off a new series on the covenants of God, starting with the very first covenants God made with key characters from the biblical narrative: Adam and Eve, Noah, and Abraham. We explain the significance of covenants in the ancient Near-East, discuss the difference between conditional and unconditional covenants, and take an in-depth look at the first three covenants God makes with His people.
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Recommended resources:
• Covenants in the Bible theme video from BibleProject
• The Language of Faith: Covenant podcast from Exploring My Strange Bible (BibleProject)
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaleuvMusic & “Remember” by Nettson
We took a break from theology this week and had fun looking at some medieval history; namely, the religious lives women could opt for in the Middle Ages. We explore why most women who chose to lead a religious life were actually well off, how married women could lead a religious life, and why some women lived in tiny rooms for 40 years.
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Recommended resources:
• "The Mystic Margery Kempe" from Stuff You Missed In History Class podcast
• "The Showings of Julian of Norwich" from Stuff You Missed In History Class podcast
• Pocket History of the Church by D. Jeffrey Bingham
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaleuvMusic & “You & Me” by Domiko
We explore a few more creeds: the Apostles' Creed, the Chalcedonian Creed, and the Athanasian Creed. We talk about the real authors of these creeds and why the creeds got longer later on in history. We even share Apelles' Creed, who was a Gnostic. It gets a little weird . . . it may be the only creed that uses the word "moist".
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Recommended resources:
• By What Authority: The Standards of Truth in the Early Church by Bruce Shelley
• The Athanasian Creed by R. C. Sproul (Ligonier.org)
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaleuvMusic & “Senseless” by Johny Grimes
In this first of two episodes on the creeds of the Church, we give some background on the reasons early creeds were written. We also explain why the Greeks believed the spoken word was more valuable than the written word and how an ancient manuscript instructed the Early Church on detecting false prophets.
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Recommended resources:
• "The Didache" article from ChristianHistoryInstitute.org
• "The Earliest Mere Christianity" article from ChristianHistoryInstitute.org
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaleuvMusic & “Forever” by Johny Grimes
You maybe haven't heard the term "dominionism," but there's a good chance you've heard its teachings. Dominionism advocates for complete Christian influence on the world in seven spheres of society. But there's a problem with how dominionism seeks influence: it's not biblical. We explain how this framework directly opposes what Jesus taught about power, the line from the Lord's Prayer dominionists use to support their beliefs, and how this worldview appeals to our pride and egotism.
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Recommended resources:
• “What Is Dominionism?” by Kit Kennedy
• “The Danger of Useful Christianity with Russell Moore” episode 447 of Holy Post podcast (skip to 23:00 - 38:50)
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaleuvMusic & "Ambient Presentation" by Free Music
The public ministry of A. W. Tozer is lauded today, but there has been controversy around his personal life and the way he treated his family. He is recognized as a prophetic voice for the church of the 20th century, but he also flirted with Gnosticism in his personal life. Join us as we explore the life of this Christian leader.
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Recommended resources:
• A Passion for God: The Spiritual Journey of A. W. Tozer by Lyle Dorsett
• "A.W. Tozer" (cmalliance.org)
• "Tozer's Contradiction and His Approach to Piety" by Justin Taylor
Music: "Inspiring Acoustic" by AShamaleuvMusic & "Gold Autumn" by WM Music
We wrap up our series on hell by exploring the traditional view of hell: eternal conscious torment. But before we get to that, we take a brief detour and explain why the ancient Jews of the Old Testament didn't have a concept of hell or the afterlife and why they eventually started to change their minds. We give arguments for eternal conscious torment, and offer some different theories as to why those who deny God deserve eternal ongoing punishment.
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Recommended resources:
• Revelation 21 - 22: A New Heaven & A New Earth (BibleProject Blog)
• Heaven & Hell series from Exploring My Strange Bible podcast
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” released by AShamaluevMusic
If you were raised in a traditional Christian home, you were probably taught about hell from the eternal conscious torment perspective. But did you know that annihilation is also thought of as a valid option by many orthodox Christians? We explain what annihilation is all about in this episode, along with the unbiblical perspective of annihilation Jehovah's Witnesses promote.
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Recommended resources:
• Episode 210: Returning to Hell with Preston Sprinkle (Holy Post podcast, 18:50 - 42:00)
• Episode 208: Talking About Hell! with John Walton (Holy Post podcast, start at 22:30)
Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” released by AShamaluevMusic & "Inspiring Cinematic Piano and Strings" by AShamaluevMusic
In the first of our 3-part series on hell, we do an introduction to the topic of hell and explain the universalist view of hell. We also explain who God created hell for, whether people become unconscious at the point of death, and the difference between Sheol, Hades, & Gehenna–all terms the Bible uses to describe hell.
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Recommended resources:
• Rob Bell vs. Adrian Warnock: Heaven, Hell & Love Wins (Unbelievable? podcast)
• Hellbound Debate - Universalism vs. Eternal Torment vs. Annihilationism (Unbelievable? podcast)
Credits
• Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” released by: AShamaluevMusic
Roman Catholics believe anointing the sick is important although it doesn't guarantee healing, while hyper-charismatic denominations believe healing is always for everyone. We dig in to discuss the varying beliefs surrounding anointing with oil, plus what the Bible has to say about it. We also discuss how ministers/priests are ordained in the Roman Catholic & Protestant churches, as well as marriage.
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Resources:
• Catholic Central YouTube channel
• "Learning About Other Churches" YouTube playlist
Credits:
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” (https://soundcloud.com/ashamaluevmusic/inspiring-acoustic)
Released by: AShamaluevMusic (https://soundcloud.com/ashamaluevmusic)
We explore two sacraments in today's episode, one of them being practiced by Protestants as well: the Lord's Supper and Confession. We explore the fact that Roman Catholics & Protestants have two very different beliefs about what the body and blood of Christ actually are, as well as how Roman Catholics practice confession.
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Resources:
• Confession (Catholic.org)
• Confessing in the Presence of a Priest (Orthodox Church in America)
• Chris Findley's YouTube channel
Credits:
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Gold Autumn” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egllsnucEWw&feature=youtu.be)
Released by: WM Music (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
If you're familiar with Roman Catholicism, you know that the seven sacraments are an important element of the tradition. When the Reformation happened in 1517, the Reformers did away with all but two of these sacraments: baptism & communion. In this episode, we discuss the differences between the ways these two sacraments/ordinances are celebrated in the Roman Catholic & Protestant churches.
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Resources:
• Baptism: Infant vs. Adult (Thrive Theology podcast episode 50)
• Covenant Theology vs. Dispensational Theology (Thrive Theology podcast episode 52)
• What is the difference between ordinances and sacraments? (GotQuestions.org)
• Study Questions for Catholic Confirmation (Catholic-Church.org)
Credits:
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Above the Clouds” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDx5ax7mgPw&feature=youtu.be)
Released by: WM Music (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
Among Christian denominations, there are two main camps when it comes to whether there are rules about how to worship God. One says we can only do what Scripture says, while the other states anything but what's forbidden in the Bible is allowed. We discuss the biblical support for these two principles, their strengths & weaknesses, and how they're similar–and different.
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Resources:
• The Regulative Principle of Worship (Ligonier.org)
• John Piper on Instruments in Worship (DesiringGod.org)
Credits:
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
We wrap up our missions 4-part series by answering questions like "Should we give to non-Christian organizations?" and "Is meeting physical needs or preaching the gospel more important?" We also discuss some of the current challenges many missionaries face (aside from poisonous snakes) and where we go from here.
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Resources:
• SIM International (website)
• TEAM of Canada (website)
Credits:
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Vacation” (https://youtu.be/nN1YIuXoenQ)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
We give you a brief history of missions in both the Roman Catholic & Protestant churches and explain how their missions efforts were different. We also get specific about two Protestant denominations that were founded on missions: the Salvation Army and the Christian & Missionary Alliance. We conclude by sharing the stories of three missionaries: William Carey, Amy Carmichael, and Jim Elliot.
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Resources:
• Mission History, III: Protestant (article)
• Christian Heroes: Then & Now series (non-fiction book series)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Ambient Presentation” (https://youtu.be/-36-qxiNgbo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
This week's episode is a bit heavier but necessary. We take a close look at some examples of missions done badly as far back as Christopher Columbus and as recently as 2010. We also discuss the problem of the "white saviour complex" that exists in many areas of the world and deal with some common, unhelpful platitudes such as, "God doesn’t only use missions to change others; God uses missions to change us."
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Resources:
• The Role of the Churches (FacingHistory.org)
• Christopher Columbus (MissionFrontiers.org)
• WE Charity and the white saviour complex (Canadian Dimension)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
We kick off a new series this week about missions! In part 1, we dig into the Scriptures and see what the New Testament said about missions, explain why missions didn't exist in the Old Testament, and work through some definitions related to missions. This intro episode is a bit shorter, so stay tuned for the rest of the series!
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Resources:
• Missions Exists Because Worship Does Not (John Piper, video)
• What is missiology? (GotQuestions.org)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Inspiring Corporate” (https://youtu.be/eUzcuhICNx0)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
In the final episode of our problem of evil series, we explore how three distinct views deal with the problem of evil: Calvinism, Arminianism, and Open Theism. Each of these has a different perspective on man's free will & God's sovereignty, and (spoiler alert) one of them is heretical.
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Resources:
• Why Does God Allow Evil? (Unbelievable? podcast, June 26, 2014)
• Free Will and the Problem of Evil (Ask NT Wright Anything podcast, episode 21)
• Jersey on the Wall (I'm Just Asking) by Tenille Townes (YouTube)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
In part two of our series, we offer some different Christian explanations for the problem of evil and discuss whether we will have freewill in heaven and what that will look like.
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Resources:
• What is theodicy? (GotQuestions.org)
• How to Answer the Problem of Evil in 5 Steps (YouTube)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Inspirational Cinematic Piano and Strings” (https://soundcloud.com/ashamaluevmusic/inspirational-cinematic-piano-and-strings)
Released by: AShamaluevMusic (https://soundcloud.com/ashamaluevmusic)
Isaiah 45:7 is often quoted as proof that the Bible says God created evil. But does it really say that? We also explore what evil is, explain Epicurianism's argument against the existence of God on the basis of evil, and why the grossest atrocities against mankind can't be called "inhumane."
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Resources:
• Epicurus (Encyclopaedia Britannica)
• Did God Create Evil? A Misunderstood Bible Verse: Isaiah 45:7 (Mike Winger)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” (https://soundcloud.com/ashamaluevmusic/inspiring-acoustic)
Released by: AShamaluevMusic (https://soundcloud.com/ashamaluevmusic)
We kick off 2021 with a discussion about how the Church has had to adapt to operating during COVID-19. We discuss how Christians should respond to persecution and why standing up for Jesus against the government is a fallacy.
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Resources:
• We Are Not Being Persecuted: a Response to Divine Obedience over Civil Obedience (ThriveTheology.com)
• A Call to Divine Obedience over Civil Obedience (PursuitofGlory.org)
• Conspiracies, Constitutional Rights, and Christ-likeness (Costi Hinn)
• A Biblical View of the Separation of Church and State: Romans 13:1 - 7 (Mike Winger)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Gold Autumn” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egllsnucEWw&feature=youtu.be)
Released by: WM Music (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
In our last episode of 2020, we work through eleven passages of the New Testament that directly refute Gnosticism—including some you probably didn't know were about Gnosticism! We also answer the question of whether Gnosticism is still alive in the church today and explain what the History channel calls the "secret books of the Bible" really are.
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Resources:
• The Truth about the “Banned Books” of the Bible (Mike Winger)
• What Are Gnostic Gospels (Northwest Catholic)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Above the Clouds” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDx5ax7mgPw&feature=youtu.be)
Released by: WM Music (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
We explore an ancient heresy in today's episode! Gnosticism started just as the early church was getting off the ground, and it was a big problem—so much so that the apostles addressed it several of their letters (more on that next week!). But how did Gnosticism start? What did gnostics believe? Was this movement just among Christians?
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Resource:
• Gnosticism podcast episode (The Doxology Podcast)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
This week, we travel back in time to an interview we did with Bob Beasley during the first-wave COVID-19 lockdown (ah, memories). He shares with us how the eastern world thinks about justice in terms of persecution and how this can be an encouragement to us, as well as how spiritual warfare in the East gives a new meaning to freedom in Christ.
🔗 Find us on Instagram
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Resources:
• Safely Home by Randy Alcorn (book)
• Bible League of Canada (stories & blog)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Vacation” (https://youtu.be/nN1YIuXoenQ)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
We conclude our series on prayer this week by discussing the different types of prayer, along with why the sinner's prayer isn't the best way to commit one's life to the Lord, what fasting is and isn't, and what to do when you don't have the desire to pray.
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Resources:
• Practising Faith: Feasting and Fasting (podcast episode)
• "Dare to Hope in God: How to Lament Well" article by Mark Vroegop
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Ambient Presentation” (https://youtu.be/-36-qxiNgbo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
Welcome to part 2 of our 3-part series on prayer! In this episode, we take a close look at how Jesus taught us to pray: "Our Father, who art in heaven..." You probably know this prayer already, but many of us miss the profound truths woven into this beautiful petition to the God of the universe. Join us as we take a deep dive into this ancient prayer.
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Resources:
• The Lord's Prayer: Gospel of Matthew Pt. 10 from Exploring My Strange Bible podcast
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
We kick off our 3-part series on prayer with this episode. We discuss the basics of prayer, what it means to pray without ceasing, what the purpose of prayer actually is, and how our prayers can be hindered. We also have an off-script conversation about how marriage reflects our corporate-church relationship with God.
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Resources:
• "Psalms - The Language of Prayer Part 1: Praying Through Our Fears" (podcast episode)
• Character of God series by the Bible Project
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Blue Sky” by IULI MAI (https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai)
Creative Commons — Attribution 4.0 International — CC BY 4.0
Almost a year ago, we did a podcast episode on the basics of Calvinism & the details of TULIP. We finally got around to doing the sister podcast on Arminianism. We look at the history of the Synod of Dordt and go into detail about the basic tenets of Arminianism. Also, should we accept DAISY as the antonym of TULIP?
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Resource:
• Calvinism vs. Arminianism (GotQuestions.org)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
This episode is the final one in our 3-part series on the Word of Faith movement. We take time this week to deal with several different passages of Scripture that the "health and wealth" gospel twists to preach their message. And we aren't against healing, but are the healings that happen at Benny Hinn's miracle crusades and Bethel's healing rooms legitimate or is something fishy going on? We cover all this & more in today's episode.
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Resources:
• Are There Scriptures That Support New Age and Word of Faith? (video by Melissa Dougherty & Mike Winger)
• A Serious Study of the Best "Name It & Claim It" Verse Ever (video by Mike Winger)
Credits:
Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
This week, we're talking about a hot-button topic: the problems with Bethel and the movement it represents. While many have looked into some of Bethel's problematic practices and addressed them, it's our goal in this episode to confront some of the less-obvious theological issues with Bethel. The biggest threat to Christianity today isn't a lie, but a half-truth. Join us as we work through some of the half-truths Bethel teaches.
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Resources:
• Ex-Bethel Student Tells All: Lindsay Davis Testimony (video)
• The New Apostolic Reformation Is Not a Cult (Charisma News)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Inspirational Cinematic Piano and Strings” (https://soundcloud.com/ashamaluevmusic/inspirational-cinematic-piano-and-strings)
Released by: AShamaluevMusic (https://soundcloud.com/ashamaluevmusic)
If you haven't heard of the word of faith movement, you've probably heard about prosperity gospel preachers. This is the first of a 3-part series on the word of faith movement: this week, we define the word of faith movement as a whole, talk about how the word of faith was established (it's not new!), & how the prosperity gospel redefines the word "faith."
🔗 Find us on Instagram
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Resources:
• American Gospel: Christ Alone movie
• God, Greed, and the (Prosperity) Gospel by Costi Hinn
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (https://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Inspiring Acoustic” (https://soundcloud.com/ashamaluevmusic/inspiring-acoustic)
Released by: AShamaluevMusic (https://soundcloud.com/ashamaluevmusic)
We're taking a short break between series to bring you another "heroes of the faith" episode. This week, we're sharing the life of Fanny Crosby, a woman who was blind from infancy and who wrote thousands of hymns for the Christian church. Her story is one of diligent faithfulness, and we're excited to tell you her story!
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Resources:
• "Fanny J. Crosby Biography" (article)
• Instrumental with JJ Heller (podcast)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: “Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting” (youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
• Music: “Slave” by IULI MAI (https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai)
Creative Commons — Attribution 4.0 International — CC BY 4.0
On the final episode of our head coverings series, we go more in-depth about the arguments both for & against head-covering practices, as well as sharing a less-conventional perspective. We wrap up by discussing what it means to allow fellow believers to follow their conscience on non-gospel issues and how we can love each other well.
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Resources:
• "Pulling Back the Veil on 1 Corinthians 11" (After Class podcast)
• "What You Need to Know about Convictions: Romans 14" (YouTube video)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
• Music: “SLAVE" by IULI MAI (https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai)
In part 3 of our 4-part series on head coverings, we finally dig deep into the passage itself. We work through the passage verse-by-verse and discuss the various interpretations of key words like "traditions" and "head," and talk about what Paul may have meant by "because of the angels."
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Resources:
• Should Christian Women Wear a Head Covering while Praying or Prophesying? (Dale Partridge, Real Christianity Podcast)
• Head Coverings: How Does 1 Corinthians 11 Apply Today? (Bible Study Podcast)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
In our second instalment of our head covering series, we take a close look at the history of head coverings, especially among the Jewish people. We also discuss modern head covering practices and dig into some different ideas about what the situation at the church in Corinth may have been.
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Resources:
• Kippot, Hats and Head Coverings: a Traditionalist View
• Anthem Ventura Podcast (“Head Coverings, Etc. - 1 Corinthians 11:2 - 16”)
Credits:
• Podcast cover art: photo courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
• Music: Gold Autumn (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egllsnucEWw&feature=youtu.be)
Released by: WM Music (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
In this episode of the podcast, we kick off our four-part series on head coverings and the Bible passage that started it all: 1 Corinthians 11:2 - 16. This week, we focus on exploring the Greek and Roman customs of the day, which was the culture that the Corinthian church was immersed in.
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Resources:
• Headcovering Customs of the Ancient World (article)
• The Historical Context of First Century Roman Wives (article)
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
• Music: Above the Clouds (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDx5ax7mgPw&feature=youtu.be)
Released by: WM Music (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
If you've ever wondered if we have proof that the stories in the Old Testament actually happened, you're in luck. Today on the podcast, we discuss three different stories from the Old Testament and share how modern archaeology has validated these events: Israel's conquest of Canaan, the existence of King David, & Hezekiah's secret tunnel.
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Resources:
Check out biblicalarchaeology.org for more info!
• article on the Tel Dan stela
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
• Music Title: Ambient Presentation (https://youtu.be/-36-qxiNgbo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
Perhaps you've never heard of systematic or biblical theology. Theology is theology—right? There are actually two different approaches we can take to Scripture when studying out the theology of a certain subject. This week on the podcast, we explain the differences between systematic & biblical theology, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of each.
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Resource:
• "Systematic Theology and Biblical Theology" by Cross to Crown Ministries (YouTube video)
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
• Music: Vacation (youtu.be/nN1YIuXoenQ)
Released by: Free Music (www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
The prophecies in Daniel 7 & 8 have been discussed and debated for hundreds of years. Some parts of these prophecies are widely agreed upon (those which refer to ancient empires), while others are disputed—mainly because many people connect these others to the end times. In today's episode, we walk through the most common interpretations of these passages and give you an overview of the widely-held beliefs.
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Resources:
• "Fulfilled Prophecy: Daniel 7 - 8" (YouTube video)
• "Super Beast & the Son of Man" (podcast episode)
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
Music: Gold Autumn (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egllsnucEWw&feature=youtu.be)
Released by: WM Music (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw)
If you've been listening to the podcast for awhile, you've probably heard us talk about the importance of studying the Old Testament—whether it was casually mentioned in an episode or during our 3-part series on the Old Testament. Either way, we're big proponents of studying the Old Testament! On today's episode, we have a conversation with Joe Hall, a leader in our local church, to discuss why and how we should study the Old Testament.
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Resources:
• "How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth" by Gordon D. Fee & Douglas Stuart
• The Bible Project website (click here to see Old Testament videos)
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
We revisit Catholic theology in today's episode, specifically discussing their beliefs about Mary (Mariology) and the saints. We explain how the Catholic Church views Mary's place compared to Jesus', what the deal is with patron saints, and why we as Protestants disagree with these beliefs.
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Resources:
• "Bad Theology of the Roman Catholic Church" by Mike Winger
• Catholic Answers website
• The Roman Catholic Church's Theology (episode 33 on our website)
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
• Music: Inspiring Corporate (https://youtu.be/eUzcuhICNx0)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
On this week's episode of the podcast, we discuss the ins and outs of two popular atonement theories: penal substitutionary atonement (PSA) and Christus victor (Christ the conqueror). Which of these two views is the most biblical is a topic that has been debated for the last several decades, and we've seen both beliefs held in extreme ways. Which is most correct? Join us as we discuss the strengths & weaknesses of each view.
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Resources:
• PSA Defended: Scripture, History, Philosophy, and Rhetoric playlist
• NT Wright: Christus Victor vs. Penal Substitutionary Atonement video
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
• Music: "Blue Sky" by IULI MAI (https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai)
We have a double feature for you this week! We share about the lives of two early church fathers who lived in the second century AD: Justin Martyr and Irenaeus. Justin Martyr is often referred to as the first Christian philosopher, and his follower Irenaeus is known for his defence of Christianity against the threat of Gnostic heresies. Tune in to hear more about these men of God and what they contributed to the Christian Church.
Reminder: we will be posting episodes every other week for the months of June & July. This allows us to still bring you great content while getting a summer break. We'll be back to our weekly release schedule in September!
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Resources:
• "Justin Martyr" article by Christianity Today
• "Who Was St. Irenaeus of Lyons?" article by GotQuestions.org
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
• Music: Slave by IULI MAI (https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai)
With some things, it's easy to see the black & white. But as believers, we are called to not only stand up for truth, but be wise and discerning in the "grey areas"—things that aren't so clear. How do we navigate these secondary issues with wisdom & love? Tune in as we discuss three "grey areas" and how we can give each other freedom in Christ with these issues.
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Resources:
• "Is God in Control or Not? with Mike Erre" from the Holy Post podcast
• Skye Jethani on conspiracy theories (Twitter thread)
• @nofruitlesswords on Instagram (by Kristen LaValley)
• Lisa Vischer's Enneagram website (Christian perspective)
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
Last week, we discussed the fact that the Bible was written by and for ancient Eastern cultures and how Western cultures often miss this when studying the Bible. Today, we're continuing our conversation with Bob Beasley of the Bible League of Canada as he offers insight into how we can interpret the Bible through an Eastern lens.
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Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting (http://youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
• Music: Ambient Presentation (https://youtu.be/-36-qxiNgbo)
Released by: Free Music (https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic)
A blind spot for many Christians in North America is the fact that the Bible was written by and for ancient Eastern cultures. Bob Beasley of the Bible League of Canada joins us to discuss common passages that are misinterpreted or passed over when we approach them from a modern Western perspective.
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Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting
Released by: Free Music
• Music: Above the Clouds
Released by: WM Music
In terms of a Christian worldview of how the world came to be, there are two distinct camps: those who believe the world was created literally according to the Genesis account and those who believe a more liberal view is required. Today, we go into detail and discuss the differences between these two views, as well as their shortcomings.
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Resources:
• "Science and Faith: Interpreting the Bible's Creation Stories" message by Tim Mackie
• "Do we live on a young or an old earth? Ken Ham vs. Jeff Zweerink" Unbelievable? podcast
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting
Released by: Free Music
• Music: Gold Autumn
Released by: Free Music
This week, we dive into the spiritual realm of angels and demons. We discuss what the Bible says about both angels and demons, what we do (and don't) know about them, and how they affect our lives as believers. Join us as we learn all about the heavenly host!
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Resources:
• "The Screwtape Letters" by C. S. Lewis
• "This Present Darkness" and "Piercing the Darkness" by Frank E. Peretti
• "Spiritual Beings" series by the Bible Project
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting
Released by: Free Music
We're picking up where we left off last week and talking about how we ended up with the New Testament canon. We discuss why the New Testament manuscripts are more reliable than those of Plato & Aristotle, what the Council of Nicea was all about, and why some "gospels" were rejected from the canon of Scripture. Tune in to hear more!
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Resources:
• For more on the Gnostic gospels: "The Truth about the Banned Books of the Bible" by Mike Winger (YouTube)
• Graph depicting New Testament manuscripts
• P52 information (Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts)
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting
Released by: Free Music
• Music Title: Inspiring Corporate
Released by: Free Music
Have you ever wondered if we have the right books in the Old Testament, or how we know they're reliable? Despite numerous challenges to the validity of the Hebrew Scriptures, we have solid grounds for the Old Testament canon. Tune in to hear all about how the Old Testament came to be!
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Resource:
• "Is the original Bible still in existence?" (GotQuestions.org)
Credits:
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
• Music: Vacation youtu.be/nN1YIuXoenQ
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
We have another "heroes of the faith" episode for you! This week's spiritual giant is none other than C. S. Lewis. He is perhaps best known for his children's novel series The Chronicles of Narnia, but he was also an atheist-turned-Christian, an intellectual, a university professor, a husband, and a stepfather. Join us as we tell the story of C. S. Lewis.
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Resources:
• C. S. Lewis website
• The Chronicles of Narnia (Amazon)
• The C. S. Lewis Signature Classics - 8-volume box set (Amazon)
• Till We Have Faces: A Myth Retold (Amazon)
• Bethany's Facebook post with C. S. Lewis recommendations
Credits
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
• Music Title: Ambient Presentation https://youtu.be/-36-qxiNgbo
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Happy Thursday, friends! Open theism is a concept you maybe haven't heard of before, but it's becoming a popular belief in progressive Christian circles. In a nutshell, it's the idea that God doesn't know the future of all things, but rather only all of the different possible futures; what we will choose is unknown by Him. You may already see some problems with this, but go ahead and tune in to hear our breakdown of this belief and why it's a dangerous idea.
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Resources:
• "Is Open Theism a Heresy?" Unbelievable? podcast episode
• "Blink" by Ted Dekker (fiction novel)
Credits
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
• Music: ”BLUE SKY" by IULI MAI: https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai
A couple weeks ago, we saw a Facebook post by a Florida ministry leader advocating that the coronavirus pandemic, along with Bob Jones' prophecy regarding the Kansas City Chiefs' recent Superbowl win, was a sign of spiritual revival and possibly the end times. This weirded us out, so we investigated. Does COVID-19 carry futuristic significance? And what's the Superbowl prophecy all about? We answer these questions and more in today's episode.
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Resources:
• Jeremiah Johnson's Facebook post
• "Understanding the Old Testament Law Pt. 1" by Mike Winger
• "Understanding the Old Testament Law Pt. 2" by Mike Winger
Credits
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
We break down the different views of Christian eschatology (the study of the end times). No need to panic: join us for an explanation of premillennialism, amillennialism, the rapture, and what Jesus Himself had to say about the end times.
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Resources:
• "What is dispensational premillennialism?" (GotQuestions.org)
• "What is postmillennialism?" (GotQuestions.org)
• "A Pre-Tribulational Rapture?" (Russell Moore)
• Link to our pre-, post-, and a-millennialism graphic
Credits
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
• Music Title: Inspiring Corporate https://youtu.be/eUzcuhICNx0
Released by: Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic
Covenant theology says that the Church replaced Israel as God's chosen people, while dispensational theology says that Israel is still God's chosen people and will continue to be. Is one more right than the other? Each of these views are quite nuanced, so we did the research for you and packaged it together in this episode. Tune in to learn all about these two perspectives!
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Resources:
• "Covenant Theology" by GotQuestions.org
• "Dispensationalism" by GotQuestions.org
Credits
• Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
• Music Title: Ambient Presentation https://youtu.be/-36-qxiNgbo
Released by: Free Music https://soundcloud.com/fm_freemusic
We go through the Bible and talk about the concept of tithing (or giving a tenth). Was Abraham commanded to give a tenth? Why did the Israelites have to tithe? And perhaps more importantly, what are we supposed to be giving now, as 21st-century believers? We answer all these questions and more on today's episode!
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Resource:
• "Giving & Receiving" by Tim Mackie (sermon, YouTube)
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
This episode marks our 50th episode of Thrive Theology! Have you ever wondered why some churches baptize babies and others do immersion baptism? We did the research for you! Join us as we discuss the theological differences between paedo- (infant) and credo- (believer's) baptism.
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Resources:
• "The Case for Paedobaptism" by The Gospel Coalition
• "Why I am Not a Paedobaptist" by Tim Challies
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
This episode is a bit more casual than most. Last week, someone posted on Instagram saying that female teachers should be teaching other women how to love their husbands & children, since it's our greatest calling as women. We take issue with this claim and examine the famous Titus 2:3 - 5 passage many Christian circles hold to as being the authority on a woman's role in the church and home. Join us as we explore different angles of this issue.
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Resource:
• "Titus" video by BibleProject
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
We're back with the second instalment of our occasional "heroes of the faith" series. Not only did John Newton write the famous hymn "Amazing Grace," but he was a sailor, slave, slave ship captain, preacher, abolitionist, and writer. He came to faith the hard way but by the power of Christ left a legacy of God's grace.
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Resources:
• "Amazing Grace" (movie)
• "John Newton: Change of Heart" by Janet & Geoff Benge (book)
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Music: “SLAVE" by IULI MAI: https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai
We break down a big theological topic in the Church today: Calvinism (aka reformed theology). We explain the five main points of Calvinism, why some Calvinists are "four-point" instead of five-point Calvinists, and recommend some great Calvinist teachers if you want to learn more.
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Resources
• "What We Believe about the Five Points of Calvinism" article (DesiringGod.org)
• "Why I Think Calvinism Is Unbiblical" video (Mike Winger)
• "Calvinism, Arminianism, Election, & Predestination: Romans 8:29 - 30, 33" video (Mike Winger)
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
The concept of listening prayer is new to many, but Dr. Don & Jen Love have seen it have an incredible impact on the lives of believers they have ministered to. As professors at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA, the Loves have watched their prayer ministry grow as God continues to use this prayer practice to change lives. Listen in as we chat with them about what listening prayer is, biblical support for it, how it can help us deal with sin and hurt, and lots more.
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Resources:
• Pray Through It website
• A Guide for Listening and Inner-Healing Prayer by Rusty Rustenbach
• Pray Through It: Letting God Right Your Story by Dr. Don Love (print version; free available on website)
• Intentional Traditions website
Credits:
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Music: "BLUE SKY" by IULI MAI: https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai
Creative Commons — Attribution 4.0 International — CC BY 4.0
Happy Monday! In this bonus episode, we tell you about some exciting changes on the podcast: new name, new cover art, new website, & more! Tune in to hear a quick update & some of things we're excited for in 2020!
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Credits:
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Join us for the second (and final) part of our two-part series on the Holy Spirit! Last week, we talked about the theology of the Holy Spirit, and this week we're sharing some of our biggest obstacles when it comes to following the leading & guidance of the Holy Spirit, as well as how God has worked in our hearts to help us overcome those obstacles. Tune in for a friendly, heartfelt discussion about what it means to walk in the Spirit.
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Resources:
The Bible Project: Holy Spirit (follow link & scroll down for videos, blog posts, & podcasts)
Credits:
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Music: Vacation youtu.be/nN1YIuXoenQ
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Welcome back to the podcast! To kick off the new year, Emily & Bethany discuss the Holy Spirit: Who He is, why He's important, and what it means to "walk in the Spirit" on a daily basis. Tune in to hear more about the Holy Spirit!
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Resources:
• Verity Conference Session 2: Discerning the Voice and Leading of the Holy Spirit (by Phylicia Masonheimer)
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
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Merry Christmas! Today on the podcast, Emily & Bethany debunk some popular Christian myths surrounding Christmas. Many claim it has pagan roots, that Christmas trees have less-than-admirable origins, and by the way, was Jesus really born in a stable? All this and more in today's episode!
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Resources:
Jesse Tree Advent gift set by Intentional Traditions (Etsy store)
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Emily & Bethany go back to the basics of Christianity and dig into the gospel message. In addition to defining what the gospel actually is, they share other Christian leaders' takes on the gospel, false expressions of the gospel, and the cost of following Christ.
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Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Bethany & Emily kick off a new occasional series of episodes in which they share about historical Christian "giants" who have contributed to the Church and our heritage of faith. This week, they're discussing the lives of dynamic duo John and Charles Wesley: two brothers who worked together to found the Methodist movement and write thousands of hymns.
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Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Welcome back! In today's episode, Emily & Bethany walk through the famous "suffering servant" passage of Isaiah 53, which prophesies about the coming Messiah. Not everyone sees it that way, though: Jewish leaders ignore this passage in their readings. Click play to hear more!
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Resources
• The Forbidden Chapter: Isaiah 53 (Tree of Life Ministries, YouTube)
• 10 Facts Messianic Jews for Jesus Don't Want Jews to Know (Hidabroot, article)
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
This week, Bethany & Emily explore what the Bible actually says about submission; not what everyone thinks it says (or doesn't say). They discuss the benefits of submission and how it must be done right in order to be edifying. Tune in to hear more!
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Resources
• John Piper: "Six Things Submission Is Not"
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
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Have you ever wondered why the gospels sometimes tell different stories, have contradicting details, or leave out parts? At first glance, this can seem to invalidate the accounts of the four disciples, but in reality, a lot of these differences are what make the gospels so reliable. Tune in to hear more!
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Resources:
• Mike Licona's website
• J. Warner Wallace's website
• Mike Winger's YouTube channel
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Music: ”BLUE SKY" by IULI MAI: https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai
The issue of spiritual gifts is one that has a wide range of responses in the Protestant church. But what support is there for either side? Listen in as Bethany & Emily discuss both sides of this debate.
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Cessation Resources:
• Tim Challies: Why I Am Not a Continuationist
• Grace to You (John MacArthur): Strange Fire webpage
• The Gospel Coalition: Why I Am a Cessationist
Continuation Resources:
• Calvary Church: "The Perfect" Argument for Continuationism
• GotQuestions.org: What Is Continuationism?
• The Gospel Coalition: Why I Am a Continuationist
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Music: “SLAVE" by IULI MAI: https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai
Emily & Bethany take a break from discussing Christian denominations & branches of Christianity in this week's episode and talk about four religious groups that, though they find their roots in the Bible, have drifted far from biblical truth (and one that hasn't). Tune in to learn more about these popular "pseudo-Christian" religions.
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Resources
• How to Reach Jehovah's Witnesses (Mike Winger, YouTube)
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
This episode is the last one on Christian church denominations, and Bethany and Emily talk about two denominations that seem to be lesser-known in North America. Both these denominations are prevalent in other areas of the world, so it's helpful to know about them (especially because they play big roles in church history). Listen in as Emily and Bethany discuss the history & doctrine of these two churches.
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Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Music: Vacation youtu.be/nN1YIuXoenQ
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Last week on the podcast, Emily and Bethany discussed the various Protestant denominations that were born out of the Reformation of 1517. This week, they dig into the church that the early protestants could no longer tolerate: the Roman Catholic Church. Tune in to hear about the Catholic Church's view of Mary, their sacraments, and what they think about sin.
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Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
If you're part of a local church, you probably know what denomination you're part of. But how much do you know about other denominations in the Protestant Church? This week, Emily and Bethany dig into the core beliefs of several main denominations in the Church today: Lutheranism, Pentecostalism, Anabaptism, and more! Tune in to hear about how these denominations differ from each other and what they have in common.
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Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
This week, Bethany & Emily venture into the land of hamartiology: the theological study of the doctrine of sin. They discuss the three words used to describe breaking God's law in the Bible: "sin", "iniquity", and "transgression". How are these different, and what does it mean for us? Click play to hear more.
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Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Has anyone ever challenged you with contradictions in the Bible? Bethany & Emily offer helpful explanations for three Bible contradictions:
- Will everyone who calls on the Lord be saved or not? (Matt. 7:21 - 23 & Rom. 10:11 - 13)
- "Eye for an eye" or "turn the other cheek"? (Ex. 21:22 - 25 & Matt. 5:38 - 42)
- Is God all-powerful or does He have limitations? (Judg. 1:18 - 19 & Matt. 19:23 - 26)
Tune in to hear the answers for each of these!
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Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Another week, another podcast episode! This week, Emily & Bethany chat about misconceptions many Christians have about women in the early church. They discuss three specific issues that are often brought up regarding women teaching, wifely submission, and more. Tune in to join the discussion!
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Resources:
• After Class podcast (Women in the Bible series)
• What Does the Bible Say about Women Pastors? (GotQuestions.org)
Credits
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Last week, we talked about deconstruction in Christianity (check out episode 27 for more on that). But this week, we're going to dig a bit deeper and discuss some of the reasons that people leave the church; things that we can't ignore.
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Helpful resources:
• "Mere Christianity" by C. S. Lewis (book)
• The Bible Project (website)
• "Evidence for the Bible" by Mike Winger (YouTube series)
• GotQuestions.org (website)
Credits:
Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
"Deconstructing" one's faith is a hot topic of discussion today. It seems that every week someone else is announcing online that they have deconstructed their faith: some say they are no longer restricting themselves to orthodox Christian doctrine; others leave the faith altogether. In this episode, Emily & Bethany discuss what exactly deconstruction is, how to respond to it, and what to do if you find yourself going through the deconstruction process.
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Helpful resources:
• "Mere Christianity" by C. S. Lewis (book)
• The Bible Project (website)
• "Evidence for the Bible" by Mike Winger (YouTube series)
• GotQuestions.org (website)
Credits:
Music: “SLAVE" by IULI MAI: https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai
Creative Commons — Attribution 4.0 International — CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/
Have you ever had to deal with a toxic person in your life? You may have been told that sometimes you just need to do what's best for you instead of others, or that sometimes you need to walk away from a relationship to be happy. Sound familiar? Tune in to hear Emily & Bethany compare culture's solution to unhealthy relationships with Scripture and how to deal with toxic people biblically.
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Music: Vacation youtu.be/nN1YIuXoenQ
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
This week, Emily and Bethany discuss culture's tendency to advertise "brokenness" as a means to show oneself as truly authentic. But does this agree with what the Bible says about brokenness? Tune in to hear more.
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Music: Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
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This week, Emily & Bethany explore the concept of holiness and how it pertains to God. Is God's holiness good? What does the Bible mean when it says "be holy, as I am holy"? Tune in to hear more.
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Music: "Cheerful Happy Upbeat Uplifting" youtu.be/6IK2xLLAEPo
Released by: Free Music www.youtube.com/channel/UCqpifMUDQ-HQNO12t7wKBmw
Music: "Blue Sky" by IULI MAI: https://www.youtube.com/c/MiMiMi-IuliMai
Creative Commons — Attribution 4.0 International — CC BY 4.0
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/...
"Chase your dreams."
"Follow your heart."
"Love yourself."
These messages sound good, but are actually very contrary to Scripture. Listen in as Emily and Bethany dive into the "self-help gospel" and counter it with the Bible.
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In this episode of Renew Theology, Emily & Bethany chat about something recently spotted online: the debate between Jesus and the Bible; grace and truth. Have you heard of this debate? We hadn't. But now that we have, join us as we work to tackle the ideas that Jesus trumps the Bible and that the Bible is all we'll ever need.
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Bethany and Emily sit down this week to chat about a movement they were both influenced by as teens: purity culture. As Christians in North America start to see the damaging effects of equating purity with virginity, discernment is necessary. Listen in as Emily and Bethany discuss the main issues with purity culture, what Scripture really says about sexual and non-sexual purity, and how we can respond to this movement biblically.
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This week, Bethany shares what God has been teaching her about His forgiveness. Emily and Bethany discuss why we need to be forgiven, misconceptions about God's forgiveness, and how we as Christians can (and need to!) respond to it.
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Emily & Bethany share what they've been learning during their time in the Old Testament. This week, they talk about what Emily's been learning in Numbers 11 & 13, which detail how Israel forgets that God has been blessing them and ultimately bring grief upon themselves because of their rebellion. Tune in to hear Bethany and Emily chat about how we can recognize God's blessings for what they are.
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In the final episode of the Old Testament series, Bethany and Emily discuss some of the challenges that others will often use to oppose the validity of the Old Testament and all of Scripture. Does the Bible really permit slavery, or say that a rape victim must marry her rapist? Tune in to hear explanations of these common challenges.
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Resources:
• "Why does the Bible speak against wearing clothing made of different types of fabric?" (Got Questions)
• "Did Old Testament Law Force a Woman to Marry Her Rapist?" (CMBW.org)
• "Does the Bible Say a Rape Victim must Marry Her Rapist?" (Living Waters)
In part two of this three-part series, Emily and Bethany go through each of the five types of sacrifices found in the beginning chapters of Leviticus and look for parallels of Jesus. They discuss how amazing it is that God has given us a picture of Jesus as far back as ancient Israel's original law code. Listen to hear the beautiful picture of redemption that the Lord weaves into these thousands-of-year-old sacrifices.
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Have you ever struggled through reading the Old Testament? The first in a three-part series, this episode is all about the Law of Moses. Bethany and Emily give an intro to the Old Testament Law and talk about what it is and isn't, as well as provide a distinction between the ancient law code of the Hebrews and modern law of North America. Listen to learn more about God's laws for the Jewish people!
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More Resources:
• "The Law" by The Bible Project (YouTube)
The story of the prodigal son is perhaps the most well known of Jesus' parables. Many tell it as a beautiful story of repentance and forgiveness, but could it be more than that? In this week's episode, Emily and Bethany explore what this story says not only about the wayward son, but also the father who welcomes him home and the older son who is less than gracious. Tune in to hear this classic parable told in a different light.
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Resources:
• "The Cross & the Prodigal: Luke 15 Through the Eyes of Middle Eastern Peasants" by Kenneth Bailey
There's a false version of Christianity sweeping through North America today called moralistic therapeutic deism. Although you may have never heard this term, you are most likely familiar with its concepts and beliefs. On this week's episode, Emily and Bethany unpack moralistic therapeutic deism, discuss its problems, and refute it biblically.
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Main Points & Biblical Refutations:
1. A god exists who created and ordered the world and watches over human life on earth.
• Hebrews 13:20 - 21
• Ephesians 5:15 - 17
-
God wants people to be good, nice, and fair to each other, as taught in the Bible and by most world religions.
• 1 Peter 1:14 - 19
• Ephesians 4:15 - 16
• Isaiah 1:16 - 17 -
The central goal of life is to be happy and to feel good about oneself.
• Romans 11:33 - 36
• Revelation 4:9 - 11 -
God does not need to be particularly involved in one's life except when God is needed to resolve a problem.
• John 5:19 -
Good people go to heaven when they die.
• Romans 3:21 - 24
• Ephesians 2:4 - 9
(Points are taken from "Soul Searching: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers" by Christian Smith and Melinda Lundquist Denton.)
Other Resources:
• What is Moralistic Therapeutic Deism (MTD)? (Got Questions)
• Moralistic Therapeutic Deism: Not Just a Problem with Youth Ministry (The Gospel Coalition)
• Moralistic Therapeutic Deism (Theology Gals Podcast)
This week, Emily and Bethany interview special guest Al Baker on things to consider when choosing a new church. They discuss deal-breaking vs. non-deal-breaking issues to consider, good and bad reasons for leaving a church, red flags to look for when visiting a church, and more.
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You've probably heard the phrase "bear each other's burdens," but what does this mean in real life? The same passage that calls us to support each other also talks about confronting sin in our brothers & sisters in Christ. So how do all these principles fit together? Is there a right and wrong way to help each other? Bethany and Emily break down these issues in this week's episode.
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A common refrain in today's culture is "Don't judge me!" But is this the attitude Christians should have? The Bible tells us not to judge, doesn't it? Bethany and Emily work through several Bible passages that deal with judging others and explain both the wrong and right ways to judge, and why every Christian needs to know how to judge rightly.
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Resources:
• Tim Mackie: To Judge or Not to Judge (YouTube)
• Mike Winger: Who are You to Judge? (YouTube)
Studying the Bible can be overwhelming for some. In this week's episode, Bethany and Emily share their favourite tips & tools for studying the Bible, as well as some of their favourite teachers and some practical suggestions for protecting yourself from false teachers.
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The story of Abraham (almost) sacrificing his son Isaac is a well-known Old Testament passage. But is this story really just an example of Abraham's incredible faith in the promises of God, or is there a bigger lesson here? Join Emily and Bethany as they explore the parallels between the sacrifice of Isaac and the death of Jesus.
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This week Emily & Bethany explore the differences between different modern English translations, give you a mini history lesson on the King James Version (and the others that came before), and discuss the dangers of using a paraphrase as your main study Bible. We're so blessed to have so many English versions to choose from; listen in to hear the benefits of each!
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More resources:
• Mike Winger: Exposing the Passion Translation (YouTube playlist)
Join Emily & Bethany as they explore Psalm 22, a passage in the Old Testament prophesying Jesus' death & resurrection 600 years before crucifixion was invented. Have your Bible handy as we walk you through this wonderful passage of Scripture.
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Today, Emily & Bethany discuss how theology fits in with worship music. Is it important for our worship music to have good theology? What does it look like to have good theology in our music? Should we toss all modern worship music out the window and go back to a hymns-only format in our worship services?
Bethany & Emily discuss these issues and more in today's episode and each share their favourite worship songs at the end of the episode.
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More resources:
• Mike Winger: Thinking Biblically about "Reckless Love"
Has anyone ever asked you how you know the Bible is true? In this episode, we explore an example of fulfilled prophecy that proves the Bible's validity: the destruction of Tyre in Ezekiel 26. Grab a Bible to follow along or simply listen in as Bethany & Emily chat about this passage!
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More resources:
• Mike Winger: Destruction of Tyre
In this episode (2/2), Emily & Bethany talk about reading the Bible in context and different types of context in Scripture.
In this episode (1/2), Bethany & Emily talk about the common issue of proof-texting: what it is, examples, and how to combat it.
In this episode, Bethany & Emily discuss what theology actually is, why it matters, and how it applies to our lives.
In this pilot episode, we tell you a bit about ourselves & our backgrounds and share why we decided to start a podcast about Christian theology.