We are in a time where the cultural topography is shifting. The message hasn't changed, but our position in the culture has. Is there an example we can look to to find inspiration? Stephen O. Presley believes so. Drawing upon the first three centuries of Christianity, Stephen takes us on a journey into the mind of the early church of the first few centuries, showing us that their time is not so different from our own. While they employed a dynamic apologetic, we need to learn from their posture in the face of persecution. It's one of the most engaging and insightful conversations we have ever had on Apollos Watered.

He serves as the Senior Fellow for Religion and Public Life at the Center for Religion Culture and Democracy (an initiative of First Liberty Institute) and Associate Professor of Church History at Southern Seminary. 

Stephen O. Presley earned his undergraduate degree at Baylor University, a Th.M. from Dallas Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. He is married to Haley and they have four children and reside in McKinney, TX.

Learn more about Stephen and get the book.

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Takeaways:

• The Christian life has often been perceived as fragmented, lacking integration among its various aspects.
• A vital component of engaging with contemporary culture involves fostering a local Christian community rooted in trust and love.
• Addressing the challenges faced in a postmodern world necessitates a holistic approach to Christian living, not solely reliant on political or charity actions.
• The early church serves as a model for living integrated lives, emphasizing the importance of a shared narrative in the face of cultural opposition.
• Hope is an essential theological virtue that must permeate our lives, guiding us through challenges and affirming Christ's reign.
• Cultural sanctification entails a dynamic interplay between indigenizing faith within cultures while maintaining its distinctiveness and relevance.