Against the Grain

"I Can't Believe in a God Who Allows Evil" — Wrestling With Suffering & Faith

"I can't believe in a God who allows evil." Ever thought that? Most of us have! When life gets dark, staying convinced that God is good isn't always easy, and that's okay to admit.

No matter what you believe, we can all agree on one thing: evil is real. So how do we as Christians actually deal with that? Not just in theory, but in real life, real conversations, real doubt.

In this episode Eric, Rick, and Jason get honest about the problem of evil, the hard questions, the messy doubts, and how to talk about it with people who are struggling too. No easy answers here, just real talk on one of faith's toughest topics.

Resources:

The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis

A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis

Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering by Tim Keller

The Reason for God by Tim Keller

Keywords: problem of evil, Christian podcast, faith and doubt, does God allow suffering, apologetics, evil in the world, God's goodness, Christianity, theodicy, wrestling with faith, suffering and God

Is Christian faith a blind leap, or is there evidence pointing to a Creator?

In this episode, Eric, Rick, Brian and Jason explore the evidence for design throughout nature, the human body, and the universe. From DNA and biological complexity to the fine-tuning of the cosmos, we consider why the order and purpose we see in creation point beyond chance and toward an intelligent Designer.

We also discuss how worldview assumptions shape the way we interpret evidence and how Christians can engage skeptics with humility, curiosity, and thoughtful questions. Ultimately, the evidence of creation invites us not only to greater confidence in our faith, but to greater awe of the God who created it all.

Topics: Design, science and faith, DNA, irreducible complexity, fine-tuning, materialism, apologetics, engaging skeptics.

Has science really disproved God or the Bible's account of creation? It's a common claim, but is the evidence as clear-cut as many believe?

In this episode, Eric, Rick, Jason & Brian explore the relationship between faith and science, tackling questions about evolution, the origin of life, the Big Bang, and the fine-tuning of the universe. They discuss why scientific debates are often more nuanced than headlines suggest and how Christians can confidently engage these conversations by asking thoughtful questions and examining the evidence.

This episode also looks at why believers can remain united on secondary issues like the age of the earth while standing firm on the foundational truth that God is Creator. If you've ever wondered whether science and Christianity are truly at odds, this conversation will equip you to think critically, respond graciously, and grow in confidence that faith and science are not enemies.

Resources:

Return of the God Hypothesis by Stephen Meyer

Inventing the Flat Earth by  Jeffrey Burton Russell

Privileged Planet (ID the Future)

Greg Koukl videos in under 3 minutes & under an hour

Keywords: Christian apologetics, faith and science, science and Christianity, biblical creation, creation vs evolution, intelligent design, origin of life, Big Bang, fine-tuning, evidence for God, Genesis, Christian worldview, apologetics podcast, science and the Bible, defending the faith.

Can we really trust the Bible? Has Scripture been changed over time, or is it reliable after thousands of years? Many people compare the Bible to a giant game of telephone, assuming its message has been distorted through centuries of copying and translation. But does the evidence support that claim?

In this episode, Eric, Jason, Rick and Brian explore the historical reliability of the Bible, the accuracy of biblical manuscripts, and the archaeological evidence that consistently supports Scripture. You'll discover why Christians can have confidence that the Bible we read today faithfully preserves God's Word and why the claims of Scripture continue to stand up to historical scrutiny.

Whether you're wrestling with doubts, answering tough questions from skeptics, or simply wanting to strengthen your faith, this conversation will equip you with practical reasons to trust the Bible and engage confidently in conversations about Scripture.

Resources:

History & Biblical Archaeology: 4-part series

Can We Trust the Bible Workshop

Where Did the Bible Come From?

Something Out There is Shaping the Way We Live - Sermon Archive

Key Topics

• Can the Bible be trusted?
• Is the Bible just a game of telephone?
• Historical reliability of the Bible
• Biblical manuscript evidence
• Archaeological evidence for the Bible
• Has the Bible changed over time?
• Bible translations and textual accuracy
• Defending the authority of Scripture
• Christian apologetics
• Evidence for Christianity
• How to answer questions about the Bible
• Why Christians can trust God's Word

Sharing your faith can feel intimidating. Many Christians want to talk about Jesus but hesitate because they don't feel knowledgeable enough, worry about being asked difficult theological questions, or fear coming across as pushy or judgmental.

So how do you faithfully share the gospel while still being gracious, genuine, and inviting?

In this episode, Eric, Brian, and Rick explore practical, biblical strategies for having meaningful conversations about faith. They discuss how asking thoughtful questions can open doors, why listening is just as important as speaking, and how to approach evangelism with humility, wisdom, and love. Rather than relying on polished arguments or having every answer, they explain how developing the right perspective can help you confidently point people to Christ in everyday conversations.

Whether you've been following Jesus for decades or you're just beginning to grow in your faith, this conversation will encourage you to share the hope of the gospel with confidence, compassion, and authenticity.

Resources:

Questioning Evangelism (by Randy Newman)

Unshakable Truth (by McDowell & McDowell)

Questioning Christianity (A Podcast by Tim Keller)

Noyes on the Street (YouTube Channel)

What Would You Say? (YouTube Videos)

Give Me An Answer (Cliffe Knechtle Videos)

Topics:

Christian evangelism | How to share your faith | Gospel conversations | Talking about Jesus | Overcoming fear in evangelism | Answering difficult questions about Christianity | Christian apologetics | Asking better questions | Winsome evangelism | Biblical communication | Effective discipleship | Sharing the gospel with confidence | Faith conversations | Living out the Great Commission

Is Christianity supported by evidence, or is faith simply believing without proof? Many people struggle with questions about faith because so much of the Christian life requires trusting what we cannot see. Yet biblical faith is not blind faith. Christians can confidently embrace both faith and facts, knowing that the evidence surrounding the Christian faith is undeniable.

In this episode, Eric, Rick, and Jason discuss why every believer should develop a foundation in Christian apologetics. They explore how apologetics strengthens personal faith, helps Christians respond to difficult questions, and equips believers to clearly articulate and defend the truth of the Gospel in an increasingly skeptical culture.

Whether you're new to apologetics or looking to grow in your confidence when discussing your beliefs, this conversation offers practical insights for building a stronger foundation and engaging others with truth, grace, and conviction.

Key topics:

Christian apologetics, evidence for Christianity, defending your faith, faith and reason, Christian worldview, biblical truth, apologetics for beginners, how to defend Christianity, reasons to believe in God, Christian podcast, evangelism, discipleship.

As culture grows increasingly hostile to the Word of God, how do we stand firm in our convictions without wavering? What is the foundation of a boldness that would walk into the lion's den for the sake of truth?

In this episode, Eric and Rachel explore the book of Daniel, unpacking its historical significance, the details we often overlook as modern readers, and how this ancient story is meant to shape the way we live today. If you want a faith that is courageous, countercultural, and grounded in something unshakeable, this conversation is for you.

Keywords: book of Daniel, bold faith, biblical courage, Christian podcast, Daniel and the lion's den, standing firm in faith, countercultural Christianity, Old Testament study, faith under pressure, Bible study podcast, Christian living, conviction and culture, Eric and Rachel, Scripture and everyday life

What if the spiritual hunger you feel is actually God's invitation to something greater? In this episode, Eric and Tyler unpack how broken young people struggling with isolation and hidden sins are finding real transformation through a "wide call, high call" approach: everyone is welcome, nothing is held back. Drawing from Luke 14's banquet parable, Tyler introduces his three A's framework for discipleship that fits naturally into the life you're already living. Ask their story. Articulate your own. Address topics biblically. No new program required. Whether you're a leader, a parent, or a mentor, this conversation will challenge and equip you to disciple the people already around you. Don't miss this practical roadmap to spiritual transformation.

Keywords: discipleship, spiritual growth, mentorship, men's ministry, sexual addiction recovery, isolation, Luke 14, faith-based leadership, parenting with purpose, biblical counseling, spiritual transformation, Christian podcast, how to disciple, young men and faith, practical Christianity

Exhort, Challenge, Grow: How Intentional Relationships Fuel Lasting Personal Growth

Growth doesn't happen in isolation. Whether you're pursuing personal development, spiritual growth, or professional transformation, the relationships around you matter more than you might think.

In this episode, Eric, Becky, and Brandon unpack what it really means to exhort one another, to speak truth, offer encouragement, and issue a genuine charge toward growth. This isn't surface-level accountability. It's the kind of deep, intentional relationship that actually moves the needle.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why personal growth requires community, not just commitment
• What it means to "exhort and charge" someone in truth, and how to do it well
• How to build intentional relationships that create space for honest, growth-focused conversations
• The difference between sustainable growth and short-term change

Becky and Brian bring a wealth of experience as leadership coaches, working daily with individuals and teams to cultivate lasting, transformational growth. Their coaching philosophy centers on walking alongside people, not pushing from behind or pulling from ahead, but partnering in the process.

If you've been trying to grow on your own and feeling stuck, this episode is for you.

Show notes:

Learn more about Undefeated Growth: https://undefeatedgrowth.com/

Keywords: personal growth podcast, leadership coaching, intentional relationships, Christian accountability, spiritual growth, transformational coaching, life coaching, exhort one another, sustainable growth, truth in relationships, personal development, growth mindset, coaching podcast, faith and leadership

Mother's Day gets one day, but motherhood is every day.

The flowers fade and the brunch ends, but the calling of a mother never takes a day off. In this episode, Laura, Haley, and Holly pull back the curtain on the real, beautiful, and sometimes messy journey of motherhood — and how a living faith can anchor you through all of it.

Whether you're in the thick of toddler tantrums, navigating the teenage years, or somewhere in between, this conversation is your reminder that you are not alone. Together, they explore how faith shapes the way we parent, how to lead our families with intention and grace, and how to find genuine joy even in the hardest seasons of motherhood.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How faith directly influences your parenting style and decisions
• Practical ways to engage and connect more deeply with your family
• How to cultivate joy in the midst of motherhood's everyday trials
• Encouragement for the moments when you feel like you're falling short

This is the episode every mom needs , not just on Mother's Day, but on a random Tuesday when the laundry is piling up and grace feels hard to find.

Hit play and be encouraged today.

Topics Covered: motherhood, Christian parenting, faith and family, parenting podcast, Mother's Day, joy in motherhood, faith-based parenting, encouragement for moms, Christian moms, parenting with grace