Podcast
Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & Culture
A weekly podcast that offers Christian perspectives on some of the most significant issues facing today's church and culture. In each episode, hosts Scott Rae and Sean McDowell — professors at Biola University's Talbot School of Theology — draw upon biblical wisdom and insights from guest experts as they explore how Christians can thoughtfully and faithfully engage with cultural trends and current events.
- Christianity chart
- #157
- Episodes
- 632
- Releases
- Twice a week
- Typical length
- 1 hr
- On air since
- 2017
- Latest episode
- 22 hours ago
Episodes
632 episodes, newest first
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31 min
Sharia Law and the US Constitution (With A.S. Ibrahim)
Show notes
Should Christians be concerned about Sharia law being implemented in the US What is Sharia Law, and is it compatible with the U.S. Constitution? Sean and Scott are shared by Dr. A.S. Ibrahim to discuss his latest book Sharia Versus the U.S. Constitution. Dr. Ibrahim grew up in Egypt, and has two doctorates in Islam, and so he has a unique perspective to speak on this topic.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr
Cultural Update: Issues Neglected By Christian Voters; Study on Religious Engagement; AI Anticipates a Crime; Society Still Needs Male Heroes
Show notes
Key Issues Ignored by Christian Voters : Host Scott Rae and guest host Rick Langer examine an article highlighting critical societal issues—such as systemic poverty, housing affordability, and long-term care—that Christian voters frequently overlook in favor of high-profile political debates.
Measuring Faith with the Religious Behavior Index: The discussion dives into recent survey data analyzing shifting trends in religious practice, exploring how active engagement is measured and what declining scores signal for the future of the local church.
When AI Anticipates Crime: The hosts unpack the bioethical dilemma surrounding Anthropic's Claude AI flagging a murder plot in Pakistan before it occurred, weighing predictive safety interventions against severe risks to user privacy and free expression.
Thank God for Brave Men: Unpacking Louise Perry’s WSJ piece, the episode highlights the vital role of traditional male heroism and courage in maintaining civil safety and civic flourishing.
Audience Question: Use of AI for Children's Cognitive Development: Scott and Rick respond to a listener's question wondering if AI could have positive uses in helping in childhood cognitive development.
Audience Question: Engaging in Existential Apologetics: Following up on last week's conversation, an audience member wonders what are some good ways of engaging in an Existential Apologetics Dialogue.
Audience Question: Defeated Satan and Spiritual Warfare: An audience member questions how we still engage in Spiritual Warfare even when Satan is defeated. Scott and Rick expand on the idea explaining that Satan's fate is known but that does not mean that the battle is over.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr
The Most Misunderstood Chapter in Revelation (with Alan Hultberg)
Show notes
Revelation 20 has been called the "most controversial chapter in the Bible." In a single chapter, you have the Lake of Fire, the Great White Throne judgment, and the Millennium. How Christians have read this chapter has shaped two thousand years of theology, missions, and engagement with culture. In this deep dive, Talbot New Testament Professor Dr. Alan Hultberg joins Sean to walk through the three main Christian views on the Millennium and to make the case for the position we both hold: Premillennialism.
Alan Hultberg combines academic research in the Apocalypse, the use of the Old Testament in the New Testament and New Testament theology with a strong desire to see students become biblically oriented disciples of Jesus Christ. He comes to Talbot with formal classroom experience at the elementary, college, and seminary levels and has served in pastoral and lay leadership roles in churches in California and Illinois. Hultberg has published several critical book reviews in New Testament studies and presented papers at the annual conference of the Evangelical Theological Society.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr
Weekly Cultural Update: French Riots, Michel Foucault's Centennial, Texas Higher Ed, and UK Porn Laws
Show notes
French Riots & Cultural Disillusionment: Host Scott Rae and guest Dr. Thaddeus Williams analyze the recent wave of unrest, looting, and protests across France. They discuss how the riots stem from a history of secular worldview shifts and a "nihilistic resentment" that only the gospel can truly satisfy.
Michel Foucault’s 100th Birthday & Legacy: Marking philosopher Michel Foucault's centennial, the hosts examine his massive influence on postmodernism, critical theory, and the reduction of all objective truth to power plays. They contrast Foucault's deeply tragic, nihilistic worldview with the ultimate meaning, truth, and hope found in Christ.
Texas Higher Education Restrictions: The hosts review new Texas legislation requiring public universities to review course content regarding race, gender, and sexuality. While acknowledging real concerns about academic bias, they discuss the dangers of state overreach and emphasize the need for genuine viewpoint diversity in higher education.
UK Pornography Law Revisions: Addressing new UK laws banning extreme pornography featuring choking and incest, the hosts critique the legislation's underlying assumption that all other pornography is "harmless" adult content.
Audience Question: Update on the Live-Streamed Execution: Responding to listener follow-ups regarding the planned execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Hasan, the hosts welcome the decision to cancel the public live stream. They argue that while justice may require capital punishment, taking a human life should never be turned into a public spectacle.
Audience Question: Advice for a 10-Year-Old Believer: In response to a nearly 11-year-old listener asking how to grow in faith, the hosts share their salvation stories and favorite verses (John 17 and Zephaniah 3:17). They encourage young Christians to pray daily for the fruit of the Holy Spirit and humbly seek out answers when tough questions arise.
Audience Question: Theological Issues with Theistic Evolution: Beyond scientific objections, the hosts outline why theistic evolution creates profound theological problems for the Christian worldview.
Audience Question: Underappreciated Theological Subjects: Asked which theological fields deserve more focus, Thaddeus champions a renewed reverence for the Triune God, while Scott highlights the importance of moral theology. Both hosts emphasize that a robust, relational understanding of God directly informs how believers navigate ethical decisions and everyday life.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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39 min
How Archaeology Supports the Bible (With Paul Weaver)
Show notes
How should Christians think about the discipline of archaeology and how it intersects with our faith? What are the top archaeological discoveries that support the Bible? How do we best respond when a discovery seems to undermine the Christian faith? Our guest today, Dr. Paul Weaver, is the author of the new book Faith-Affirming Findings: 50 Archaeological Discoveries that Validate the Bible.
Prior to teaching at Dallas Theological Seminary, Dr. Weaver taught for eighteen years at the Word of Life Global Bible Institute. Thirteen of those years were on the Hungary campus and five years on the New York campus. In addition to his professorial responsibilities, Dr. Weaver also served in administrative roles (Academic Dean and Executive Dean). Dr. Weaver is passionate about teaching the Bible and training leaders for the church worldwide. He is also the host of the Bible and Theology Matters audio podcast and faith Affirming Findings video podcast. He is married to Jill, and they have a son and daughter.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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59 min
Weekly Cultural Update: Televised Execution of Fort Hood Shooter; Screens and Youth Mental Health; A New Wave of Feminism; AI Wins Literary Prize
Show notes
• Televised Execution of the Fort Hood Shooter: Scott and Sean analyze Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's announcement that the U.S. military plans to execute Fort Hood shooter by firing squad and live-stream the event for public deterrence.
• Screen Time and Youth Mental Health: Examining a New York Times opinion piece, the hosts evaluate whether compulsive device usage is the root cause of rising youth anxiety or merely an anesthesia masking underlying relational voids and mental health conditions.
• The Next Wave of Feminism: Scott and Sean review a report in The Dispatch covering a new feminist movement and its "Declaration of Interdependence," which rejects radical autonomy and body-denying technologies in favor of mutual community obligations.
• AI and Literary Integrity: Responding to The Atlantic's coverage of an AI-flagged short story winning the Caine Prize for African Writing, the hosts discuss the growing crisis of trust across literature and academia. They stress that passing off AI-generated work as original writing violates the Ninth Commandment, noting that technological safeguards can never replace personal character and virtue.
• Legal Accountability for Men in Abortions: A listener asks if men who impregnate women should be held legally accountable for abortions, questioning whether an unfair legal and moral burden is placed solely on the woman. The hosts address the query by examining the legal asymmetries surrounding parental rights, financial child support, and instances of male coercion.
• Elisha and the Bears (2 Kings 2:23–24): In response to a listener asking if Elisha overreacted to taunts about his baldness, the hosts clarify that the original Hebrew phrase refers to young men aged 12 to 30 rather than small children. They explain that mocking the newly appointed prophet with calls to "go up" derided Elijah's ascent to heaven, making the taunt a direct act of contempt against God Himself during a pivotal period in Israel's history.==========
Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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53 min
Naturalism’s Cosmological Dilemma (With Stephen Meyer)
Show notes
Do the latest discoveries in cosmology point beyond the limits of philosophical naturalism? In this episode, Sean welcomes Dr. Stephen Meyer to discuss a profound dilemma at the heart of modern cosmology. Responding to recent criticisms from renowned mathematical physicist Sir Roger Penrose, Meyer argues that many discussions about the origin of the universe miss a deeper issue. He calls it a "pick your poison" argument: either the universe arose from a set of highly improbable conditions that defy explanation, or we must consider explanations that challenge the assumptions of philosophical naturalism.
Dr. Stephen C. Meyer received his Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge in the philosophy of science. A former geophysicist and college professor, he directs the Center for Science and Culture at the Discovery Institute in Seattle.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr
Weekly Cultural Update: Botched Execution of Christa Pike; Cornell Rape Allegations & the Sexual Revolution; Secularization Among Evangelicals; Gen Z & Anti-Semitism
Show notes
The Botched Execution of Christa Pike: The hosts evaluate the ethical and theological implications surrounding death row inmate Christa Pike, who survived a botched lethal injection attempt in Tennessee. They examine whether procedural flaws in capital punishment undermine its moral justification under a biblical worldview.
The Sexual Revolution and the Cornell Incident: In light of reopened investigations into an alleged fraternity gang rape at Cornell University, Scott and Sean analyze how a sexual ethic based solely on consent fails to protect young people. They explore recent commentaries arguing that such incidents are the tragic byproduct of post-1968 sexual liberation and widespread pornography consumption.
Secularization Among Evangelicals: The hosts break down new research suggesting that self-identified evangelicals are absorbing secular cultural values and practices at a higher rate than expected. This trend highlights how cultural trends can subtly erode traditional theological convictions over time.
Gen Z, Anti-Semitism, and Covenant Theology: The discussion turns to study findings revealing that the strongest predictor of anti-Semitic attitudes among Generation Z is the belief that God's covenant to the Jewish people has ended. Scott and Sean reflect on how theological views regarding Israel directly impact real-world cultural perspectives among young adults.
Human Nature: Body, Soul, and Spirit: Following up on a recent conversation with Dr. J.P. Moreland, the hosts address whether the human makeup is bipartite (body and soul/spirit) or tripartite (body, soul, and spirit). They clarify biblical terminology to help listeners better understand human nature and spiritual growth.
Culture and the Authority of the New Testament: Responding to a listener's concern that Christians will begin dismissing the New Testament just as many have dismissed the Old Testament, Sean and Scott explore the dangers of aligning faith with popular culture. They offer guidance on maintaining confidence in the full authority of Scripture despite societal pressure.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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37 min
When the Journey Hurts (With Jason McMartin)
Show notes
Does God cause our suffering? How does our suffering undermine our sense of life’s meaning? What does it mean to say that God redeems our suffering? We’ll answer these questions and a good deal more with our guest, Dr. Jason McMartin around a new book he’s co-authored with two other Biola faculty members, entitled, When the Journey Hurts.
Dr. Jason McMartin Is Professor of Theology and teaches systematic theology and theological integration for Rosemead School of Psychology and for Talbot School of Theology. He is the author of numerous journal articles in the integration of psychology and theology.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr 1 min
Weekly Cultural Update: Traditional Dating Apps; Jehovah's Witnesses Blood Policy Shift; Pope Leo in France; Smartwatches for Kids in China
Show notes
Traditional Values in Dating Apps: The Match Group relaunched the Upward dating app for "next gen traditionalists" seeking marriage and family through modern courtship, reflecting a growing desire for stability and traditional relationship roles.
Jehovah's Witnesses Update on Blood Policy: The governing body of the Jehovah's Witnesses announced that accepting individual blood components—such as red blood cells, plasma, and platelets—is now a matter of personal conscience, though their core prohibition on whole blood transfusions remains intact.
Pope Leo’s Reception in France: Pope Leo drew massive crowds in France, including over 800,000 people for a papal mass in Paris, highlighting a shift in the country from an "inherited Christianity" to a "chosen Christianity".
Smartwatches over Smartphones in China: Hosts Scott Rae and Erik Thoennes discuss why parents in China are giving their children scaled-down smartwatches instead of smartphones to help set healthier boundaries around technology.
Listener Question: Church Hopping: The hosts address an audience question regarding church hopping, exploring when personal preference becomes too dominant a factor in choosing a church body—a situation the first-century church never had to consider.
Listener Question: Public Neutrality: The episode tackles a listener query about neutrality in public settings, assessing whether genuine neutrality exists in the public square and how Christians should navigate public involvement.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr 9 min
J.P. Moreland on Suffering, Doubt, and Facing Death Without Fear
Show notes
What has philosopher J.P. Moreland learned from two dozen surgeries? What does he consider the best evidence for the existence of God? How confident is he that heaven is real? And what is his advice for the next generation of leaders? In this frank conversation, Sean sits down with Talbot/Biola professor J.P. Moreland to talk about his life and faith.
J. P. Moreland is Distinguished Professor of Philosophy at Talbot School of Theology at Biola University. He is a philosopher, author, and speaker who has authored, edited, or contributed to 95 books and published more than 85 scholarly articles on philosophy, theology, consciousness, and the existence of God, including Finding Quiet. He has lectured and debated on more than 200 college campuses worldwide and was named one of The Best Schools' 50 Most Influential Living Philosophers in 2016.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr 1 min
Weekly Cultural Update: Is Scripture Outdated? The Rise of Polyamory; Worldview and AI Safety: UK's Assisted Dying
Show notes
Are Biblical Truths Becoming Outdated? Sean and Scott analyze recent Lifeway research revealing that a growing number of younger churchgoers view certain biblical teachings as outdated, highlighting the need to help the next generation understand how Scripture promotes human flourishing.
The Rise of Polyamory: An article in The Christian Century addresses the rise of consensual non-monogamy, spurring analysis of how alternative relationship structures affect personal fulfillment, emotional stability, and the social frameworks supporting mutual care.
AI Safety and China's Worldview: While Western nations debate whether AI poses systemic risks to society, China approaches AI safety around protecting Communist Party control and embedding state ideology into algorithms.
Defeating the UK's Assisted Dying Bill: The discussion turns to how Christian advocacy helped defeat proposed assisted dying legislation in the UK, standing up for the vulnerable and affirming the value of human life.
Audience Question: Flock License Plate Cameras: Sean and Scott evaluate the ethics of widespread Flock surveillance cameras, balancing the benefits of crime prevention against concerns regarding personal privacy and government overreach.
Audience Question: Can we choose evil in heaven? Responding to an audience question, the hosts clarify how free will is maintained in heaven, yet sin would still not be present.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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35 min
The Centrality of Gratitude to our Spiritual Lives (With Kent Dunnington)
Show notes
Is gratitude to God the heart of our spiritual formation? What do we make of the notion of a debt of gratitude? How was grace and gratitude viewed in the world of the New Testament? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, our Biola colleague in philosophy, Dr. Kent Dunnington, around his new book, Gratitude to God: The Heart of spiritual Formation.
Kent Dunnington is Professor of Philosophy at Biola University. He teaches and writes in the areas of virtue ethics, the philosophy of religion, and the philosophy of addiction. He is the author or editor of four books and numerous journal articles.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr 3 min
Cultural Update: Free speech on college campuses; Does AI make kids worse at thinking?
Show notes
Is free speech disappearing on college campuses? A new report gives nearly half of surveyed colleges an “F” for free speech, raising bigger questions about intellectual diversity, disagreement, and why Christians should value persuasion over coercion.
Could AI make kids worse at thinking? Early research suggests generative AI may help students get answers faster while short-circuiting the difficult mental work needed to actually develop critical-thinking skills.
A two-year-old was euthanized in the Netherlands. How did we get here? Sean and Scott examine this tragic case and the crucial ethical distinction between relieving suffering, allowing natural death, and intentionally causing death.
Are “designer babies” becoming more acceptable? A surprising study finds prospective parents may care as much about avoiding traits like low intelligence or antisocial behavior as they do about certain medical risks when choosing embryos.
Listener Question: Could legalizing something harmful actually reduce the harm? A listener pushes Scott on whether his harm-reduction argument applies not only to pornography but also to dangerous drugs such as fentanyl.
Listener Question: Can trauma-informed ministry go too far? The hosts explore how churches can take trauma seriously without allowing it to become someone’s defining identity—and how truth, compassion, healing, and personal agency can fit together.
Listener Question: Are we reading modern psychology back into the Apostle Paul? Responding to their recent conversation with Scot McKnight, Sean and Scott ask how confidently we can apply concepts like trauma, emotional regulation, and PTSD to a biblical figure living 2,000 years ago.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr 24 min
10 Prophecies for Jesus? (with Jeff Morgan)
Show notes
What are the best Old Testament prophecies pointing to Jesus? In this episode, Sean talks with Jeff Morgan, who came to Christ out of a secular Jewish home, about his top ten prophecies that point to Jesus. We discuss how pointers to Jesus from a range of books in the Old Testament and how they are uniquely fulfilled in the person of Jesus.
Jeff Morgan is a Jewish believer in Yeshua, living in Israel, known for his bold and compassionate evangelism. Formerly with Jews for Jesus, Jeff is the founder of Highway 53 Ministries, a popular YouTube channel and outreach ministry.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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58 min
Weekly Cultural Update: 25th Anniversary of 9/11; Ukraine Legalizing Porn; Weaponizing Abortion Pills; The Insanity Defense
Show notes
25th Anniversary of 9/11: Sean and Scott discuss Douglas Murray’s Free Press article marking 25 years since the September 11 attacks and examining the dangerous rise of 9/11 conspiracy theories. They highlight how fading historical memory among younger generations fuels postmodern skepticism, emphasizing the importance of preserving truth and naming evil.
Ukraine Legalizing Pornography to Fund War: The hosts analyze reports that Ukraine is considering legalizing and taxing online adult content, such as OnlyFans, to help finance its defense against Russia. They evaluate the moral versus legal dimensions of sex work, raising critical concerns regarding systemic exploitation, corruption, and wartime desperation.
Abortion Pills Weaponized by Abusers: Sean and Scott examine a Free Press report detailing how abusive men covertly administer mail-order abortion pills to pregnant women. They discuss how deregulated telehealth policies and state shield laws have led to dangerous unintended consequences for women's safety.
Lindsey Clancy Mistrial: The hosts address The New York Times coverage of a mistrial declared in the high-profile Lindsey Clancy triple murder case. They outline the complex legal and social conversations surrounding postpartum mental health crises and courtroom proceedings.
Audience Question: Thinking Biblically About the Insanity Defense: Building on the Lindsey Clancy discussion, Sean and Scott answer a listener question about how Christians should evaluate the legal plea of insanity. They reflect on how to biblical worldview principles balance personal moral accountability, justice for victims, and genuine mental incapacitation.
Audience Question: Antisemitism and Jewish Uniqueness: In reflection on a past discussion Sean had with Shabbos Kestenbaum, the hosts respond to an audience query asking whether God uses historic and modern antisemitism as a divine tool to keep the Jewish people distinct. They break down covenant theology, distinguish God's sovereign providence from human sin, and affirm the clear moral imperative against anti-Jewish hatred.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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33 min
Paul, PTSD and the Church Today (With Scot McKnight)
Show notes
Did the apostle Paul suffer from PTSD? How did his experience with trauma shape his spiritual life and ministry as an apostle? What can we learn from his experience with trauma for the life of the church today? We’ll answer these questions and more with our guest, Dr. Scot McKnight, around his new book, The Traumatized Church.
Scot McKnight is former Julius Mantey Professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary and a voluminous author, having authored or co-authored more than 80 books and numerous journal articles.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr 1 min
Weekly Cultural Update: Self-Starvation Suicides; Gloria Steinem's Legacy; AI Sentience and the Singularity
Show notes
Medical Ethics & Assisted Suicide: The hosts examine a National Review report on bioethical pressure to compel doctors to assist in self-starvation suicides (VSED), raising severe concerns over physicians' conscience rights. Scott emphasizes that forcing medical participation in deliberate starvation bypasses assisted suicide laws and undermines traditional medical ethics.
The Legacy of Gloria Steinem: Reflecting on the passing of feminist activist Gloria Steinem at age 92, Sean and Scott unpack her cultural impact and the mixed legacy of second-wave feminism. They contrast her secular views on autonomy and abortion with a biblical view of human value rooted in the image of God.
AI Sentience and the Singularity: Analyzing recent coverage from The Wall Street Journaland The Atlantic, the team addresses claims of AI sentience and fears surrounding an impending technological singularity. Scott explains why true consciousness cannot emerge from physical code, while Sean warns against attributing human selfhood to programmed responses.
Audience Question: Slavery in the Bible: Addressing a listener question on biblical passages regarding slavery, the hosts clarify the historical context of ancient servitude. They demonstrate how Scripture's overarching moral framework elevates human dignity and lays the foundation for abolition.
Audience Question: AI as a Bible Study Tool: In response to an audience inquiry about using AI for Scripture study, Sean and Scott outline both benefits and warnings. They note that while AI functions well for fast textual research, it cannot replace personal engagement or Holy Spirit-led discernment.
Audience Question: The Real Costs of Egg Freezing: Following up on a previous discussion regarding Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the hosts review research submitted by an outside organization detailing the true financial and physical costs of egg freezing. The conversation highlights the bioethical complexities and hidden expenses often omitted from popular fertility narratives.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr 7 min
The Truth Behind 1 Enoch (with Joel Muddamalle)
Show notes
The Book of Enoch has exploded in popularity. Some people claim it unlocks the Bible's greatest mysteries, while others say it shouldn't be trusted at all. So, what's the truth? Today we're diving into one of the most controversial ancient books ever written. Does it really explain the origin of demons? Can it help us understand the mysterious story of the Nephilim in Genesis—or does it raise more questions than it answers? Dr. Joel Muddamalle is the author of The Unseen Battle and he was both a friend and protege of the late Michael Heiser. He joins us for a deep-dive on these questions and more. Please join us for a LIVE discussion about this episode, and the previous episode on angels and demons, on Sean's YouTube channel on September 8th at 4:30pm PST. Bring your questions for Dr. Muddamalle or submit them at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
Joel Muddamalle holds a PhD in theology and serves as the director of theology and research at Proverbs 31 Ministries. He co-hosts the Therapy & Theology podcast with Lysa TerKeurst and licensed counselor Jim Cress. Joel is a frequent speaker for churches, conferences and events. He is the author of The Unseen Battle.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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1 hr 3 min
Weekly Cultural Update: Political Violence Polls; Massachusetts Abortion Law; Gen Z Stress Crises; Flooding in Nepal
Show notes
Voter Views on Political Assassination: Sean McDowell and guest host Thaddeus Williams react to alarming poll data showing 17% of voters view the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson as acceptable. They examine how toxic cultural narratives, dehumanizing language, and self-righteous tribalism normalize political violence.
Massachusetts Extreme Abortion Law: The hosts unpack Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey signing a bill that removes gestational age limits to allow abortion up to the moment of birth. They critique the underlying ideology, contrast it with biblical principles on protecting the vulnerable, and share global abortion statistics.
Rising Stress and Existential Crises: Sean and Thaddeus discuss survey results revealing that 35% of Americans and over half of Gen Z face severe stress and an existential crisis in 2026. Thaddeus explains the mental toll of modern self-worship, while Sean highlights scripturally rooted practices for restoring peace.
Devastating Floods in Nepal: The hosts highlight the ongoing disaster in Nepal, where massive flooding has claimed hundreds of lives. They call on listeners to pray and support relief efforts following this tragic event.
Audience Question: Narcissism and AI Pastor Avatars: Following up on a report about a Bay Area pastor who built an AI clone of himself to counsel church members, a listener asks whether narcissism is the underlying drive. The hosts emphasize that substituting automated digital avatars for authentic, humble human presence distorts true pastoral ministry.
Audience Question: Free Markets and Government Intervention in Food Supply: Addressing a question on whether government should step in when free markets fail to feed the hungry. Sean and Thaddeus explain that free enterprise still has a proven track record as the most efficient system for generating abundance.
Audience Question: Navigating Suicide Discussions with Non-Christians: Addressing a sensitive audience question, the hosts offer practical wisdom for discussing suicide with non-Christians. They outline how to lovingly communicate human dignity, offer Christ-centered hope, and support individuals experiencing deep despair.
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Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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