AUTHENTIC with Shawn Boonstra: Recent Episodes
Voice of Prophecy
Casual, transparent conversations about life, spirituality and God. AUTHENTIC is a deep-dive into the nature of love, relationships, emotions and self-awareness. Host Shawn Boonstra answers real existential questions—stuff that everybody wonders about: the meaning of life, living with purpose, and understanding how the great philosophers still impact the way you live today.
We're living in an increasingly impatient world, aren't we? Even though we're easily the most affluent generation in the history of the world, somehow we still seem to think we deserve a little more, as soon as possible. And sometimes, that attitude can even show up in church.
It can be incredibly hard to trust in others. Over and over, the world and its people fail us. How would God be any different? Shawn Boonstra explores how we truly judge our judges.
Some people are worth every bit of ridicule and disgust you can give ’em, right? After all, they stand for something you abhor. Maybe they stand for the wrong politics. Or maybe they chose the wrong religion. And to top it off, they're rude! But wait a sec... Who gave you the right to determine someone else's worth?
A lot of people don't like organized religion—and for good reason. History is full of atrocities in the name of Christianity. But are they throwing out the baby with the bathwater? Shawn Boonstra makes a case for closer examination.
This week on Authentic, Shawn gets to the heart of what exactly "inspired by God" means when it comes to Scripture—writing it, compiling it, interpreting it. And what about all those "extra" books of the Apocrypha? Are they Scripture? Join us for part 2 of our series on how the Bible came to be.
Enjoy this best-of rerun from the Voice of Prophecy.
Why was a tree that led to DEATH placed in paradise in the first place? Was God setting up Adam and Eve for temptation and failure? In part 6 of his "Answers for a Skeptic" series, Shawn Boonstra explores God's choices, our choices, and the troubling mystery of sin. Don't miss this fascinating discussion that sheds light on an age-old dilemma.
In this thought-provoking episode, Shawn Boonstra confronts the challenging topic of slavery in the Bible and its relevance to a modern audience. Join us as we focus on God’s efforts to mitigate the consequences of human choices.
This is part 5 in Shawn’s series called “Answers for a Skeptic."
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This week Shawn continues investigating the common idea of hell and comparing it with Scripture. Where IS hell, exactly? Is it burning in the bowels of the earth? Is hell really everlasting? And is it a truly just punishment?
Be sure to catch last week's Part 1 if you haven't already.
Join host Shawn Boonstra for a compelling two-parter as he tackles the age-old misconceptions surrounding hell and eternal punishment. This week he'll explore the origins of these beliefs, the very purpose of hell, and how God's character relates to it all.
This is part 3 in Shawn's series called "Answers for a Skeptic."
On this week's episode of Authentic, host Shawn Boonstra continues his series called "Answers for a Skeptic" by focusing on the claim that the Bible is full of mistakes and contradictions.
Join Shawn Boonstra on Authentic as he begins tackling some truly tough questions posed by skeptics about faith, God, and the Bible. First up: why does God stay silent and hidden? The answer may be closer than you think...
In the devil’s final temptation to Jesus, he offers to give Jesus the kingdoms of the world in return for worshipping him. Host Shawn Boonstra highlights the vital message that there are no shortcuts to glory—that is, to a meaningful relationship with God.
Doubt can be useful—healthy, even!—but it can also be poisonous. Saints and skeptics alike have wrestled with suspicions about God, His character, and His words and promises. In "The Temptation of Christ, Part 2," Shawn Boonstra looks at the sharp impulse to doubt that confronted Jesus and entraps us today.
Times of desperation can often tempt us to shift our values—make us consider things we’d never consider under any other circumstances. Shawn Boonstra talks about why you can trust Jesus to help you overcome Satan's temptation just like He did.
Have you ever heard someone say that the stories in the Bible are just a rip-off of older pagan documents? On this week’s Authentic episode, host Shawn Boonstra explores some of those claims comparing the Jesus we find in the Bible to the heroes and gods of the pagans.
What makes us think that life should be fair? Why do we feel that someone owes us something when they do something wrong to us? We all seem to have a profound sense of justice. Shawn Boonstra says it's because we are the work of a profoundly just Creator.
It's a fact you'll find all throughout history: people who unwittingly become leaders by accident or in times of sudden crisis quite often make better leaders than people who spend their lives trying to gain power. On this week’s episode of AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra takes a look at Cincinnatus, an ancient Roman statesman who was quickly made dictator in wartime—and just as quickly resigned after victory. His unusual story points us to the true nature of human rule, power, and corruption.
What do you imagine when you think of the devil? A lot of people think he's a red-skinned monster with horns, sharp teeth, and a pitchfork. But it turns out that image is rooted in pagan mythology—not the Bible. In this episode, AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra talks about what the devil really looks like and why you should care.
Losing someone to death can be heartbreaking, especially if that person was young. And it's far from rare: studies show young Americans are TWICE as likely to die as their counterparts in other developed nations, like Germany, France, and Japan. The mortality rate for U.S. babies is scarily high, too. How do we cope? AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra says there is something we can do to help make these painful moments less difficult.
If you didn't see it, hear it, or feel it yourself—did it REALLY happen? Learn how your experiences and the way you rely on them can trick you when it comes to miracles. Join Shawn Boonstra as he takes a closer look at famous philosopher David Hume, who didn't believe in miracles. This week's episode of AUTHENTIC will make you think a little differently about the world around you!
Is it possible for miracles to be scientifically proven? Join Shawn Boonstra on this week's episode of AUTHENTIC as he explores one of history's most influential philosophers, David Hume, and his controversial view on miracles. There's plenty to discuss at this fascinating intersection of philosophy, religion, and science—don't miss this week's show!
Churches risk losing their way when they prioritize business and marketing strategies over their core mission. They may be filling the pews, but in the process they're unintentionally compromising the message they stand for. This episode of AUTHENTIC with Shawn Boonstra explores the dangers of putting church growth and popularity ahead of Gospel truth.
Do you really control every decision you make? There’s an increasing number of people who believe that free will is only an illusion—that the decisions you make today are solely caused by events from your past.
In this episode, AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra discusses research from neuroscientist Benjamin Libet and the determinism of Dutch-Jewish philosopher Baruch Spinoza. It's a deep dive into the debate over free will versus the law of Nature.
Your life is finite: you'll live and die, having occupied a limited space for a limited amount of time. But in the end, we all seem to sense that there’s something infinite to grab hold of. Where does it take us? This week on AUTHENTIC, Shawn Boonstra peers into the beyond.
Lots of people talk about Jesus' miracles—whether they did or didn't happen. Christians believe they were real. But what's important is that the miracles are not the reason one believes. They're not the foundation of Christian faith. AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra explains how the story of Jesus as Messiah stands strong regardless of the supernatural signs and wonders He performed.
More and more people in North America seem to believe the Bible is a book that oppresses humans and shuts down personal freedom. On this week’s program, Shawn Boonstra argues that the opposite is true—that many freedoms Americans enjoy today are largely inspired by the Bible itself.
Back in the earliest years of Christian history, a lot of deep thinkers struggled to wrap their minds around the concept of Jesus being not just a man, and not just God, but instead BOTH things at the very same time. 🤯 How could the eternal Almighty Himself come to this earth as a real flesh-and-blood human? Shawn Boonstra takes a little time to examine that claim in this special Christmas episode.
Lots of people are cool with Jesus, and even Yahweh...except for that pesky claim of exclusivity. What’s His deal? Some have diagnosed God as an egomaniacal control freak.
This week Shawn Boonstra analyzes the first commandment—“no other gods before Me." Yet what IS a god to us? An idol? It all has to do with the dynamics of Creator, created, and the trust that builds or breaks us.
True freedom or lawful obedience? In the human mind, these concepts are at war, just as modern Christian thought severs our lives today from the Old Testament era: the age of the law (many claim). Join Shawn Boonstra as he unearths the truth—it has ALWAYS been an age of grace—and the ensuing question: if we’ve never had to buy our salvation, what’s the point of God’s law?
Standing as mortals at the foot of Mount Olympus, what would we see as we gazed up at the gods? How would it compare with the view of God at Mount Sinai? Join Shawn Boonstra this week for a study in divine character. In the world of our ancestors and their gods, Yahweh was shockingly unique—and much of it has to do with the Law He gave at Sinai.
The Thanksgiving holiday gives us an incredible opportunity to practice real gratitude AND quit living with brutal anxiety. Watch this episode to find out why Shawn Boonstra thinks Thanksgiving is the most important holiday of the year.
Public schools required to display the Ten Commandments? Such a rule sounds surprising, but recently lawmakers made it real in Louisiana. (Update: And in Texas, as of the airing of this encore show.) If you’ve kept up with the news, you know there's an active lawsuit challenging it. Shawn Boonstra dives into the controversy, exploring not only the line between church and state but also God’s reason for sharing His moral law with us in the first place.
Enacting someone’s last will and testament is a sacred duty. Still, inspired by a “gut feeling,” some like to redefine the deceased’s last wishes…often erupting familial wars. Is it possible that YOU, right now, are responsible for executing Someone’s will? Shawn Boonstra suggests you could be, and your fellow executors are quarreling over what this will and (New) Testament means.
As a dark wave of fatalism and existentialist despair rolled over from Europe in the nineteenth century, one brilliant American thinker dared to stem the tide. What if we are MORE than machines? he asked. What if our choices actually matter? Join us as we explore the impact of psychologist-philosopher William James and his quest to make meaning out of the vibrant life of the mind.
Imagine for a minute that you’re an ambassador of Earth to an alien civilization. You’re asked, “What’s this RELIGION thing all about? Why do you all believe something’s WRONG with your world?” Be honest: would you have answers? In this episode of Authentic, Shawn Boonstra pursues a coherent definition for religion, shining a light on why humanity’s always trying to improve…and why our efforts tend to backfire.
"You can't tell me what to do!" From crib to nursing home, we all bristle like porcupines at claims of authority. Something in us HATES being commanded. Is it any surprise the Most High God gets massive pushback? But what if, Shawn Boonstra asks, this target is a painted one? Scripture reveals Someone wholly unlike the tyrant of our imagination...
Thinking outside the box isn't just for artists and engineers. We can all benefit from challenging assumptions that hold us back. But what happens when "radical = good" becomes an assumption itself? Shawn Boonstra ponders the consequences for a society obsessed with erasing all the lines, boundaries, and principles that built us.
It takes a skeptic to prove reality. Shawn Boonstra revisits an old "friend," René Descartes, and his groundbreaking decision to doubt everything and how he concluded, "I think, therefore I am." The way Descartes starkly split mind from matter, though, should trigger our own skeptical instincts.
What causes YOU to lose your cool? The roots of our anger are deep and varied, but Shawn Boonstra suggests it's usually less about cosmic justice and more about personal injury. So, how to name and tame this dragon of rage? A centuries-old Christian practice may be the key.
Wrath. It's known as one of the seven deadly sins—and yet Scripture is filled with descriptions of God getting wrathful. So what IS the problem with anger? Shawn Boonstra explores this dynamite emotion and how our personal experiences with anger can cloud our view of heaven's righteous outrage.
Some today say that for centuries Christians believed in a flat earth. So what does the evidence say? Join Shawn as he looks into the fascinating history of the connection between the flat-earth theory and the Christian church. The story may be just a tad different from what you’ve learned to believe.
Join Shawn Boonstra for the story of one remarkable redemption at the hands of one VERY unlikely redeemer. All hope and holiness seemed lost when God's people and Temple fell to Babylon. But God had a wild card to play, a king to inspire, and some precious vessels to protect...
Whether you identify as a total Gemini, take a passing interest in the Chinese zodiac, or regard all horoscopes as ripe for mockery, you can't deny their massive popularity. This week Shawn Boonstra dissects the appeal of astrological signs. Are we seeking a cosmic destiny? Guidance? Order? Whatever it is, we can't help but look up.
Tick. Tock. The clock of life is running out. The shadow of the Reaper’s scythe darkens every minute and every year. Sure feels like we’re all sitting on death row... But what if there was a way to escape that tyrannical clock? What if you could make every moment count—could make sure even the most ordinary life REALLY meant something in the grand scheme of things? This week on Authentic, Shawn Boonstra shares how you can break free of the prison yard of life.
Many today struggle to understand their true significance and where they fit into this world. Out of this struggle has flowed untold sadness and tragedy. In this week's episode of Authentic, Shawn Boonstra explores how our understanding of our cosmic origins affects the value we place on ourselves and our role in the universe.
This week we're discussing the disturbing legacy of a different Reich in the 20th century. The sexual liberation movement promised to cast off the chains of oppressive morality—to let "free love" reign and hearts fully flourish. In the radical new thinking of figures like Wilhelm Reich, self-control and boundaries were now dangerous repression. But has the new paradigm truly delivered us from evil? Shawn examines the cost of divorcing biblical morality from sex.
Have you ever been stopped in your tracks by something so incredibly beautiful, it leaves you with a twinge of sadness? Shawn Boonstra explores this perplexing paradox of how experiencing beauty can produce joy and sadness, all at the same time.
Translating ancient Hebrew and Greek scriptures is hard enough WITHOUT the monarchy and Church coming for your head! Shawn Boonstra relates the astonishing journey of the English Bible, from radical idea to royal-approved release.
Say you've got a set of well-established Scriptures. How exactly do you come along and add a whole NEW set to it? In this week's encore episode, Shawn Boonstra investigates the origins of the New Testament. Did its authors think they were writing Scripture? And what role do councils play in determining whether texts were inspired?
In a pain-choked world, we see the face of evil everywhere. And there's plenty of blame to fling around, which we do. Constantly. But maybe it's time, Shawn Boonstra says, for a good long look at the face in the mirror—half in light, half in shadow.
The book of Genesis is widely perceived as myth—on the same shelf as Gilgamesh and Zeus. So let's line them up side by side, shall we? Shawn Boonstra weighs the differences and charts strikingly separate worlds of meaning.
You slip on a ring, and SNAP! You're invisible. What will you do with this power? This week, Shawn Boonstra turns to an old fable of Plato's to confront who we are in the dark, when no one is looking. But while it's easy to sin in secret, the ancient wisdom of Proverbs reminds us: there's a real cost even in this life...and a REAL path to your authentic self.
Crucifixion on its own is horrific enough...but if you believe Jesus' death on the cross was the punishment for our sins, it's even WORSE. Some object and say the cross was about pure love—nothing to do with judgment or wrath. Shawn Boonstra investigates the feelings and reasoning at play, and why the biblical framing of Christ's death still holds such power to both disturb and astound us.
Desperate to find the meaning of life? It’s only human. Philosophers and theologians have long invented ideas to build an understanding of the universe. But they’ve reached a dead end. In this episode, Shawn Boonstra traces humanity’s precarious path to nihilism and confronts modern misconceptions about divine justice. To understand God and hell, we must turn to the Bible. The WHOLE Bible.
Shivering in the shadow of life’s darkest problems, will we ever think our way to the light? Inspired by Thomas Aquinas, nineteenth-century philosophers argued that we could. Shawn Boonstra claims the opposite. Learn why human reason often paves the way to corruption—and discover what it really takes to find the answers to those deepest of life’s questions.
We often credit the Greeks with inventing Western philosophy. But how often were they borrowing from another great society? This week, we’re exploring the ancient world to uncover the hidden influences behind Plato, Pythagoras, Democritus, and more. The real roots of popular thought—and your own worldview—may shock you.
Is it wrong to want more? In this episode, Shawn Boonstra breaks down what the Bible really says about envy, greed, and material possessions. Turns out, the tenth commandment is about a lot more than wanting a nicer car—this law is a cosmic clue pointing us to the only source of real happiness.
What does it really mean to “bear false witness”? Does the ninth commandment warn us against ALL falsehoods? Shawn Boonstra doesn’t think so. From gossip to political spin, lies intended to wound another’s reputation can—like wildfire—spiral out of control, causing irreparable damage. Join us for a fresh look at this law on deception . . . and the powerful truth it reveals.
Some claim that the road to a perfect society starts with abolishing private property. But the Bible—and a history littered with failed utopian experiments—tells a different story. In this episode, Shawn Boonstra analyzes infamous history, popular philosophy, and the eighth commandment: “You shall not steal.” Could this simple law contain answers for modern issues?
Is the sanctity of marriage collecting dust? Shawn Boonstra breaks down modern culture’s take on marriage, infidelity, and passion vs. reason. When so many have thrown away God’s seventh commandment, he argues that this law against adultery holds timeless truths—revelations about God’s character that can enrich our lives today.
Humans once swarmed bloody arenas, howling in delight as gladiators slaughtered each other. Today, we consider ourselves enlightened, better than our ancestors—but have we successfully killed our appetite for violence? In this episode, Shawn Boonstra unpacks the sixth commandment, revealing how hatred and mainstream media shape our view of human life. Murder isn’t just about violent crimes—it starts in the heart.
In a world that’s too hectic and angry to listen to the wisdom of past generations, are we unknowingly setting ourselves up for failure? Can honoring one’s parents really enhance lives—even entire civilizations? In this episode on the fifth commandment, Shawn Boonstra answers these questions and sheds light on a dangerous cultural shift that’s redefining authority.
Finding a moment of rest in today’s bustling society can be difficult—even impossible. So why do many modern Christians reject the Sabbath? Shawn Boonstra uncovers the Sabbath’s true purpose as a day of rest and SO much more. This week on Authentic, discover why God set the seventh day apart and how this forgotten commandment can help us connect with God in a new dimension.
What does it really mean to take God’s name in vain? Is it just about expletives and oaths, or is there something much greater at stake?
Shawn Boonstra explores God’s third commandment and its ties to identity theft, our daily conduct, and the majesty of Yahweh. You might be surprised at how relevant this ancient edict is today.
This week on Authentic, Shawn gets to the heart of what exactly "inspired by God" means when it comes to Scripture—writing it, compiling it, interpreting it. And what about all those "extra" books of the Apocrypha? Are they Scripture? Join us for part 2 of our series on how the Bible came to be.
Almost one-third of humanity sees the Bible as “God-breathed.” But it didn’t appear out of thin air...so where did these scriptures come from, and who decided they were authoritative? Join Shawn Boonstra for a new Authentic series on the astounding history of the Bible. We’ll start with the rich cultures of ancient Mesopotamia—and take a moment to debunk a popular myth from “The Da Vinci Code.”
Why was a tree that led to DEATH placed in paradise in the first place? Was God setting up Adam and Eve for temptation and failure? In part 6 of his "Answers for a Skeptic" series, Shawn Boonstra explores God's choices, our choices, and the troubling mystery of sin. Don't miss this fascinating discussion that sheds light on an age-old dilemma.
In this thought-provoking episode, Shawn Boonstra confronts the challenging topic of slavery in the Bible and its relevance to a modern audience. Join us as we focus on God’s efforts to mitigate the consequences of human choices.
This is part 5 in Shawn’s series called “Answers for a Skeptic.”
This week Shawn continues investigating the common idea of hell and comparing it with Scripture. Where IS hell, exactly? Is it burning in the bowels of the earth? Is hell really everlasting? And is it a truly just punishment?
Be sure to catch last week's Part 1 if you haven't already.
Join host Shawn Boonstra for a compelling two-parter as he tackles the age-old misconceptions surrounding hell and eternal punishment. This week he'll explore the origins of these beliefs, the very purpose of hell, and how God's character relates to it all.
This is part 3 in Shawn's series called "Answers for a Skeptic."
On this week's episode of Authentic, host Shawn Boonstra continues his series called "Answers for a Skeptic" by focusing on the claim that the Bible is full of mistakes and contradictions.
Join Shawn Boonstra on Authentic as he begins tackling some truly tough questions posed by skeptics about faith, God, and the Bible. First up: why does God stay silent and hidden? The answer may be closer than you think...
In the devil’s final temptation to Jesus, he offers to give Jesus the kingdoms of the world in return for worshipping him. Host Shawn Boonstra highlights the vital message that there are no shortcuts to glory—that is, to a meaningful relationship with God.
Doubt can be useful—healthy, even!—but it can also be poisonous. Saints and skeptics alike have wrestled with suspicions about God, His character, and His words and promises. In "The Temptation of Christ, Part 2," Shawn Boonstra looks at the sharp impulse to doubt that confronted Jesus and entraps us today.
Times of desperation can often tempt us to shift our values—make us consider things we’d never consider under any other circumstances. Shawn Boonstra talks about why you can trust Jesus to help you overcome Satan's temptation just like He did.
AUTHENTIC is presented by the Voice of Prophecy.
Everyone copes with anxiety in their own way. Sometimes a simple distraction like playing a game of Tetris or (on the stranger side) digging a big tunnel might be enough to make you feel better. Host Shawn Boonstra explores how spending time with God in prayer might be the best way to deal with your problems.
One of the most stunningly prophetic passages in Scripture has been mangled by modern Christians. Time to reconstruct a tapestry: Shawn Boonstra traces the beautiful threads that tie the Temple, Israel, and Messiah her Prince all together.
Back in the earliest years of Christian history, a lot of deep thinkers struggled to wrap their minds around the concept of Jesus being not just a man, and not just God, but instead BOTH things at the very same time. 🤯 How could the eternal Almighty Himself come to this earth as a real flesh-and-blood human? Shawn Boonstra takes a little time to examine that claim in this special Christmas episode.
Lots of people are cool with Jesus, and even Yahweh...except for that pesky claim of exclusivity. What’s His deal? Some have diagnosed God as an egomaniacal control freak.
This week Shawn Boonstra analyzes the first commandment—“no other gods before Me." Yet what IS a god to us? An idol? It all has to do with the dynamics of Creator, created, and the trust that builds or breaks us.
True freedom or lawful obedience? In the human mind, these concepts are at war, just as modern Christian thought severs our lives today from the Old Testament era: the age of the law (many claim). Join Shawn Boonstra as he unearths the truth—it has ALWAYS been an age of grace—and the ensuing question: if we’ve never had to buy our salvation, what’s the point of God’s law?
The Thanksgiving holiday gives us an incredible opportunity to practice real gratitude AND quit living with brutal anxiety. Watch this episode to find out why Shawn Boonstra thinks Thanksgiving is the most important holiday of the year.
Standing as mortals at the foot of Mount Olympus, what would we see as we gazed up at the gods? How would it compare with the view of God at Mount Sinai? Join Shawn Boonstra this week for a study in divine character. In the world of our ancestors and their gods, Yahweh was shockingly unique—and much of it has to do with the Law He gave at Sinai.
Public schools required to display the Ten Commandments? Such a rule sounds surprising, but earlier this year, lawmakers made it real in Louisiana. And if you’ve kept up with the news, you know there's an active lawsuit challenging it. Shawn Boonstra dives into the controversy, exploring not only the line between church and state but also God’s reason for sharing His moral law with us in the first place.
Enacting someone’s last will and testament is a sacred duty. Still, inspired by a “gut feeling,” some like to redefine the deceased’s last wishes…often erupting familial wars. Is it possible that YOU, right now, are responsible for executing Someone’s will? Shawn Boonstra suggests you could be, and your fellow executors are quarreling over what this will and (New) Testament means.
As a dark wave of fatalism and existentialist despair rolled over from Europe in the nineteenth century, one brilliant American thinker dared to stem the tide. What if we are MORE than machines? he asked. What if our choices actually matter? Join us as we explore the impact of psychologist-philosopher William James and his quest to make meaning out of the vibrant life of the mind.
Imagine for a minute that you’re an ambassador of Earth to an alien civilization. You’re asked, “What’s this RELIGION thing all about? Why do you all believe something’s WRONG with your world?” Be honest: would you have answers? In this episode of Authentic, Shawn Boonstra pursues a coherent definition for religion, shining a light on why humanity’s always trying to improve…and why our efforts tend to backfire.
"You can't tell me what to do!" From crib to nursing home, we all bristle like porcupines at claims of authority. Something in us HATES being commanded. Is it any surprise the Most High God gets massive pushback? But what if, Shawn Boonstra asks, this target is a painted one? Scripture reveals Someone wholly unlike the tyrant of our imagination...
Thinking outside the box isn't just for artists and engineers. We can all benefit from challenging assumptions that hold us back. But what happens when "radical = good" becomes an assumption itself? Shawn Boonstra ponders the consequences for a society obsessed with erasing all the lines, boundaries, and principles that built us.
It takes a skeptic to prove reality. Shawn Boonstra revisits an old "friend," René Descartes, and his groundbreaking decision to doubt everything and how he concluded, "I think, therefore I am." The way Descartes starkly split mind from matter, though, should trigger our own skeptical instincts.
What causes YOU to lose your cool? The roots of our anger are deep and varied, but Shawn Boonstra suggests it's usually less about cosmic justice and more about personal injury. So, how to name and tame this dragon of rage? A centuries-old Christian practice may be the key.
Wrath. It's known as one of the seven deadly sins—and yet Scripture is filled with descriptions of God getting wrathful. So what IS the problem with anger? Shawn Boonstra explores this dynamite emotion and how our personal experiences with anger can cloud our view of heaven's righteous outrage.
As the Voice of Prophecy team ramps up work on summer events, we're also tuning up the studio for a new season of Authentic that comes out September 13. Stay tuned! If you're interested, we do actually run weekly encore episodes—check out our Facebook for those releases: www.facebook.com/vopministry
The internet has supercharged the spread of conspiracy theories and urban legends both old and new. Many Christians have been caught up in its web. But their evangelizing, as Shawn Boonstra explains, has little to do with the core message of the Gospel. It may even be poisoning the faith for others. This week on Authentic: a plea for a return to Bible basics in a conversation that's gone off the walls and down weird rabbit holes.
If you were to build the perfect society, how would you do it? In this episode of Authentic, Shawn Boonstra breaks out his old copy of Plato's "Republic" to examine some of the allegedly best ideas for creating utopia. Somewhere between philosopher-kings, warrior-kings, and despots, the dream starts to dissolve... Can we find it for real?
This week we're tackling a big question: how do we know if God is actually speaking to us? Shawn shares some rock-solid guidance on telling the difference between our own thoughts and feelings and divine communication.
Some today say that for centuries Christians believed in a flat Earth? So what does the evidence say? Join Shawn as he looks into the fascinating history of the connection between the flat-earth theory and the Christian Church. The story may be just a tad different from what you’ve learned to believe.
Join Shawn Boonstra for the story of one remarkable redemption at the hands of one VERY unlikely redeemer. All hope and holiness seemed lost when God's people and Temple fell to Babylon. But God had a wild card to play, a king to inspire, and some precious vessels to protect...
Whether you identify as a total Gemini, take a passing interest in the Chinese zodiac, or regard all horoscopes as ripe for mockery, you can't deny their massive popularity. This week Shawn Boonstra dissects the appeal of astrological signs. Are we seeking a cosmic destiny? Guidance? Order? Whatever it is, we can't help but look up.
Tick. Tock. The clock of life is running out. The shadow of the Reaper’s scythe darkens every minute and every year. Sure feels like we’re all sitting on death row... But what if there was a way to escape that tyrannical clock? What if you could make every moment count—could make sure even the most ordinary life REALLY meant something in the grand scheme of things? This week on Authentic, Shawn Boonstra shares how you can break free of the prison yard of life.
Many today struggle to understand their true significance and where they fit into this world. Out of this struggle has flowed untold sadness and tragedy. In this week's episode of Authentic, Shawn Boonstra explores how our understanding of our cosmic origins affects the value we place on ourselves and our role in the universe.
This week we're discussing the disturbing legacy of a different Reich in the 20th century. The sexual liberation movement promised to cast off the chains of oppressive morality—to let "free love" reign and hearts fully flourish. In the radical new thinking of figures like Wilhelm Reich, self-control and boundaries were now dangerous repression. But has the new paradigm truly delivered us from evil? Shawn examines the cost of divorcing biblical morality from sex.
Have you ever been stopped in your tracks by something so incredibly beautiful, it leaves you with a twinge of sadness? Shawn Boonstra explores this perplexing paradox of how experiencing beauty can produce joy and sadness, all at the same time.
Translating ancient Hebrew and Greek scriptures is hard enough WITHOUT the monarchy and Church coming for your head! Shawn Boonstra relates the astonishing journey of the English Bible, from radical idea to royal-approved release.
Say you've got a set of well-established Scriptures. How exactly do you come along and add a whole NEW set to it? In Authentic's next segment on the history of the Bible, Shawn Boonstra investigates the origins of the New Testament. Did its authors think they were writing Scripture? And what role do councils play in determining whether texts were inspired?
In a pain-choked world, we see the face of evil everywhere. And there's plenty of blame to fling around, which we do. Constantly. But maybe it's time, Shawn Boonstra says, for a good long look at the face in the mirror—half in light, half in shadow.
The book of Genesis is widely perceived as myth—on the same shelf as Gilgamesh and Zeus. So let's line them up side by side, shall we? Shawn Boonstra weighs the differences and charts strikingly separate worlds of meaning.
Turns out there might be a really deep reason the world's major religions share a common thread—a collective memory. And Shawn Boonstra says that's a really big deal for the way religion has shaped society.
Seems like bad people get away with too much, and that good people often suffer for it. Find out what justice really means and when you can expect it. Presented by Voice of Prophecy.
Maybe. Just maybe you can figure out why you exist. Historical records indicate that people have tried for millennia, so Shawn Boonstra says it must be important. Presented by Voice of Prophecy.
Admit it—you do things you know you shouldn't. We all do. It's almost like we can't help it. Shawn Boonstra explores how emotions almost always override logic. Presented by Voice of Prophecy.
Sitting in circles makes you a witch, right? Turns out medieval thinking and superstition still plague modern religion. Shawn Boonstra explores how the backstory can help you find a more meaningful life today. Presented by Voice of Prophecy.
What's the point of investing in your future, if everyone's going to die anyway? Shawn Boonstra tackles one of life's biggest questions. Presented by Voice of Prophecy.
The baby Jesus wasn't just born to die—as an eventual sacrifice at the cross. Christ was born to LIVE! Host Shawn Boonstra charts how 33 authentic years became eternity's liberating bridge between heaven and earth, and how Christmas is no mere birthday party.
This week on Authentic, Shawn gets to the heart of what exactly "inspired by God" means when it comes to Scripture—writing it, compiling it, interpreting it. And what about all those "extra" books of the Apocrypha? Are they Scripture? Join us for part 2 of our series on how the Bible came to be.
Almost one-third of humanity sees the Bible as “God-breathed.” But it didn’t appear out of thin air...so where did these scriptures come from, and who decided they were authoritative? Join Shawn Boonstra for a new Authentic series on the astounding history of the Bible. We’ll start with the rich cultures of ancient Mesopotamia—and take a moment to debunk a popular myth from “The Da Vinci Code.”
Join Shawn Boonstra on Authentic as he examines our moral responsibilities to future generations. Shawn questions our ability to engineer a utopia, reflecting on past failures and the pitfalls of ideological pursuits. Delving into ethical considerations and the value of divine guidance, this week's episode challenges our perspective on shaping a brighter future.
On this special episode of Authentic, host Shawn Boonstra is diving deep into the essence of Thanksgiving and why, for him, it might just be the most wonderful time of the year. Join Shawn in appreciating the simplicity, beauty, and life-shaping power of giving thanks.
Why was a tree that led to DEATH placed in paradise in the first place? Was God setting up Adam and Eve for temptation and failure? In part 6 of his "Answers for a Skeptic" series, Shawn Boonstra explores God's choices, our choices, and the troubling mystery of sin. Don't miss this fascinating discussion that sheds light on an age-old dilemma.
This week Shawn continues investigating the common idea of hell and comparing it with Scripture. Where IS hell, exactly? Is it burning in the bowels of the earth? Is hell really everlasting? And is it a truly just punishment?
Be sure to catch last week's Part 1 if you haven't already.
Join host Shawn Boonstra for a compelling two-parter as he tackles the age-old misconceptions surrounding hell and eternal punishment. This week he'll explore the origins of these beliefs, the very purpose of hell, and how God's character relates to it all.
This is part 3 in Shawn's series called "Answers for a Skeptic."
On this week's episode of Authentic, host Shawn Boonstra continues his series called "Answers for a Skeptic" by focusing on the claim that the Bible is full of mistakes and contradictions.
Join Shawn Boonstra on Authentic as he begins tackling some truly tough questions posed by skeptics about faith, God, and the Bible. First up: why does God stay silent and hidden? The answer may be closer than you think...
In the devil’s final temptation to Jesus, he offers to give Jesus the kingdoms of the world in return for worshipping him. Host Shawn Boonstra highlights the vital message that there are no shortcuts to glory—that is, to a meaningful relationship with God.
Doubt can be useful—healthy, even!—but it can also be poisonous. Saints and skeptics alike have wrestled with suspicions about God, His character, and His words and promises. In "The Temptation of Christ, Part 2," Shawn Boonstra looks at the sharp impulse to doubt that confronted Jesus and entraps us today.
Times of desperation can often tempt us to shift our values—make us consider things we’d never consider under any other circumstances. Shawn Boonstra talks about why you can trust Jesus to help you overcome Satan's temptation just like He did.
AUTHENTIC is presented by the Voice of Prophecy.
Everyone copes with anxiety in their own way. Sometimes a simple distraction like playing a game of Tetris or (on the stranger side) digging a big tunnel might be enough to make you feel better. Host Shawn Boonstra explores how spending time with God in prayer might be the best way to deal with your problems.
One of the most stunningly prophetic passages in Scripture has been mangled by modern Christians. Time to reconstruct a tapestry: Shawn Boonstra traces the beautiful threads that tie the Temple, Israel, and Messiah her Prince all together.
Have you ever heard someone say that the stories in the Bible are just a rip-off of older pagan documents? On this week’s Authentic episode, host Shawn Boonstra explores some of those claims comparing the Jesus we find in the Bible to the heroes and gods of the pagans.
What do you imagine when you think of the devil? A lot of people think he's a red-skinned monster with horns, sharp teeth, and a pitchfork. But it turns out that image is rooted in pagan mythology—not the Bible. In this episode, AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra talks about what the devil really looks like and why you should care.
Losing someone to death can be heartbreaking, especially if that person was young. And it's far from rare: studies show young Americans are TWICE as likely to die as their counterparts in other developed nations, like Germany, France, and Japan. The mortality rate for U.S. babies is scarily high, too. How do we cope? AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra says there is something we can do to help make these painful moments less difficult.
If you didn't see it, hear it, or feel it yourself—did it REALLY happen? Learn how your experiences and the way you rely on them can trick you when it comes to miracles. Join Shawn Boonstra as he takes a closer look at famous philosopher David Hume, who didn't believe in miracles. This week's episode of AUTHENTIC will make you think a little differently about the world around you!
Is it possible for miracles to be scientifically proven? Join Shawn Boonstra on this week's episode of AUTHENTIC as he explores one of history's most influential philosophers, David Hume, and his controversial view on miracles. There's plenty to discuss at this fascinating intersection of philosophy, religion, and science—don't miss this week's show!
Churches risk losing their way when they prioritize business and marketing strategies over their core mission. They may be filling the pews, but in the process they're unintentionally compromising the message they stand for. This episode of AUTHENTIC with Shawn Boonstra explores the dangers of putting church growth and popularity ahead of Gospel truth.
Do you really control every decision you make? There’s an increasing number of people who believe that free will is only an illusion—that the decisions you make today are solely caused by events from your past.
In this episode, AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra discusses research from neuroscientist Benjamin Libet and the determinism of Dutch-Jewish philosopher Baruch Spinoza. It's a deep dive into the debate over free will versus the law of Nature.
Your life is finite: you'll live and die, having occupied a limited space for a limited amount of time. But in the end, we all seem to sense that there’s something infinite to grab hold of. Where does it take us? This week on AUTHENTIC, Shawn Boonstra peers into the beyond.
Lots of people talk about Jesus' miracles—whether they did or didn't happen. Christians believe they were real. But what's important is that the miracles are not the reason one believes. They're not the foundation of Christian faith. AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra explains how the story of Jesus as Messiah stands strong regardless of the supernatural signs and wonders He performed.
More and more people in North America seem to believe the Bible is a book that oppresses humans and shuts down personal freedom. On this week’s program, Shawn Boonstra argues that the opposite is true—that many freedoms Americans enjoy today are largely inspired by the Bible itself.
Some critics believe the deity of Christ was a concept invented years after Jesus at the Council of Nicaea. But the gospel of John says otherwise, claiming that Jesus was God from the very beginning—even before God created Earth. And AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra says John talks about everything in a way no other gospel writer does.
This is the final part in a five-episode series called "The Four Witnesses."
"The gospel of Luke is, by some accounts, the human face of Jesus. It's arguably the most relatable part of the Bible telling the story of Jesus on Earth. And AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra explains why Luke had regular people like you in mind when he wrote it.
This is part four of a series called "The Four Witnesses."
Mark is a great place to start reading the Bible. It’s short enough that you can read it in one sitting, and the gospel talks about how Jesus relates to real, everyday people. But it turns out that maybe Mark isn't actually the author. AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra walks you through the evidence in part 3 of a series called "The Four Witnesses".
If you want to know what it really looks like to be a Christian, the gospel of Matthew is a great place to start. It reads like a training guide—talking about what Jesus said, and then about what he did. And what better example to copy than Jesus himself? AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra walks you through some of the most interesting parts of the Bible's first gospel.
This is part two of a series called, The Four Witnesses.
Ever wonder why the Bible has four versions of Jesus' life—in four gospels? AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra kicks off a multi-part study series about how the four gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke and John—are different and alike. Series name: The Four Witnesses.
Back in the earliest years of Christian history, a lot of deep thinkers struggled to wrap their minds around the concept of Jesus being not just a man, and not just God, but instead BOTH things at the very same time. 🤯 How could the eternal Almighty Himself come to this earth as a real flesh-and-blood human? Shawn Boonstra takes a little time to examine that claim in this special Christmas episode.
The thought that somebody might be out there pretending to be you is enough to keep you up at night. How much money are they borrowing in your name? What kinds of crimes are they committing? When bad things happen, people have a tendency to blame God. Is it possible that we’re actually blaming the wrong person? Shawn Boonstra looks for answers in the story of Job’s unwavering commitment to God.
Turns out music might be one of the best pieces of evidence against evolution as an origins theory. Shawn Boonstra examines the seemingly miraculous story of Dae-bum Lee, a Korean baritone turned stroke survivor who’s managed to sing in classical concert halls even though he can’t speak.
We never seem to have time for quiet reflection. Have you ever tried giving yourself a full day away from the digital world? Shawn Boonstra challenges you to try it. Take a whole day with your Bible and listen to what God has been trying to tell you.
The Thanksgiving holiday gives us an incredible opportunity to practice real gratitude AND quit living with brutal anxiety. Watch this episode to find out why Shawn Boonstra thinks Thanksgiving is the most important holiday of the year.
Some of the most vocal people in American politics also seem to be the most religious. And while that's not a bad thing inherently, it can be dangerous. Shawn Boonstra walks through the pages of atheist and Christian philosophers, such as Thomas Paine, to uncover how religious influence on government has quashed freedom and killed dissidents.
Most of us still have this collective sense that the world is not supposed to be like this—filled with evil, pain, and loss. Most of us seem to remember a time when things were a whole lot better. Shawn Boonstra says it's because God has put eternity in our hearts.
Are some ideas too dangerous to remain in circulation? There's a disturbing new trend where people think banning certain types of speech is not only OK, but the right thing to do. Shawn Boonstra talks about why that's actually a really bad idea.
Have you ever started something with the intention of doing something good and inadvertently ended up doing the exact opposite? Unintended consequences are, unfortunately, a part of life. But what can you do about it? Shawn Boonstra explores why your human judgment can often betray you.
Imagine going into a room to make a presentation, knowing that nobody really wants you there—and they’re probably going to laugh at you the whole time. Would you still be willing to do it? What would it take to make you persist? Shawn Boonstra takes a look at what Jesus experienced throughout his life here on Earth.
We're living in an increasingly impatient world, aren't we? Even though we're easily the most affluent generation in the history of the world, somehow we still seem to think we deserve a little more, as soon as possible. And sometimes, that attitude can even show up in church.
It can be incredibly hard to trust in others. Over and over, the world and its people fail us. How would God be any different? Shawn Boonstra explores how we truly judge our judges.
Some people are worth every bit of ridicule and disgust you can give ’em, right? After all, they stand for something you abhor. Maybe they stand for the wrong politics. Or maybe they chose the wrong religion. And to top it off, they're rude! But wait a sec... Who gave you the right to determine someone else's worth?
A lot of people don't like organized religion—and for good reason. History is full of atrocities in the name of Christianity. But are they throwing out the baby with the bathwater? Shawn Boonstra makes a case for closer examination.
Music can actually help you find the ultimate meaning of life. Shawn Boonstra talks about the brain science.
Did Christopher Hitchens lie? Or did he just interpret things differently? We're revisiting claims from the well-known "atheist evangelist" who said that religion poisons everything.
Atheists love to praise Christopher Hitchens—one of the "Four Horsemen" of New Atheism. But they leave out some pretty critical info that should really change how you evaluate his claims.
How do you really know what you know? How can you be so sure? Shawn Boonstra revisits the writings of Ayn Rand, one of the most influential thinkers of the 20th century.
Chances are, she's changed the way you think...and not necessarily in a good way. Shawn Boonstra explores the writings of one of the most influential—and controversial—thinkers in modern American history: Ayn Rand.
A brutal pandemic. Surging unrest. It's happened before...and it'll happen again. But much worse, and on a scale that few people can comprehend.
Find out about a secret so big that you can actually bend the universe in your direction...if it's true.
Find out about a small piece of real estate—just 37 acres big—that some people think might spark a global war.
What's the point of investing in your future, if everyone's going to die anyway? Shawn Boonstra tackles one of life's biggest questions.
You might think that miracles are proof enough that God exists—but miracles are not the essence of a meaningful relationship with God. Shawn Boonstra talks about why miracles shouldn’t be the foundation of our faith.
In a meaningless world, why live? For life itself—according to many. But there could be something even MORE worth fighting for, says Shawn Boonstra.
We all feel like we're here for a reason—like we should make the world better than it is. But why? Shawn Boonstra digs into what our ancestors thought about that question. Turns out they were pretty smart cookies.
Knowing your history is critical. Without it, a person could all too easily slip into the role of persecutor. And Shawn Boonstra says that could be the reason other people stop trusting Christians.
Seems like we're ripping apart the very foundations of our stable society. Shouldn't we stop to ask why? Shawn Boonstra says these “deconstructors” are building on long-forgotten and wrongheaded ideas.
Shawn Boonstra explores one of the most fundamental skills we need to live an authentic human existence: the ability to just turn things off.
What if things aren't really what they look like? We're living in a world of fake pictures and videos that are starting to fool lots of people—including you. Shawn Boonstra explores deep fakes.
Shawn Boonstra uncovers a really big scam that's trying to cheat you out of a really big inheritance.
Seems like bad people get away with too much, and that good people often suffer for it. Find out what justice really means and when you can expect it.
Admit it—you do things you know you shouldn't. We all do. It's almost like we can't help it. Shawn Boonstra explores how emotions almost always override logic.
We've known that Earth is round for thousands of years, but—in 2022—some people still think it's flat. This week Shawn Boonstra is exploring why so many people gravitate toward crazy conspiracies...and why some of them insist their beliefs are essential to Bible-believing faith.
Watch AUTHENTIC
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDOzRCemavz8e0X-Hdn1qesCj2Zsn8d46
Free Bible Studies
https://bibleschools.com/
Turns out our ancient ancestors might've been much smarter than we give them credit for. Modern research has uncovered ancient computers and deep knowledge about space. AUTHENTIC host Shawn Boonstra shows you the data.
Watch AUTHENTIC
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDOzRCemavz8e0X-Hdn1qesCj2Zsn8d46
Free Bible Studies
https://bibleschools.com/
Wars like the one in Ukraine...dreadful pandemics like COVID-19...senseless violence and death. None of it seems to square up with the idea of a god who cares. But maybe there's more to it than we understand. Shawn Boonstra looks for answers in part 2 of our series on the problem of evil.
Watch AUTHENTIC
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDOzRCemavz8e0X-Hdn1qesCj2Zsn8d46
Free Bible Studies
https://bibleschools.com/
The war in Ukraine reminds many Christians about the Bible's prophetic warning for end times. But war isn't new—far from it, in fact. So is this really the beginning of the end? Shawn Boonstra challenges you to think carefully about the answer.
Watch AUTHENTIC
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDOzRCemavz8e0X-Hdn1qesCj2Zsn8d46
Free Bible Studies
https://bibleschools.com/
Why would a loving god allow suffering—if one even exists? And why do bad things happen, if that god is perfect? Atheists say evil proves that no god exists. Shawn Boonstra investigates an ancient problem.
Watch AUTHENTIC
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDOzRCemavz8e0X-Hdn1qesCj2Zsn8d46
Free Bible Studies
https://bibleschools.com/