In this episode, host Dr. Ron Snyder welcomes Dr. Michael Adkins to discuss Newman's 1831 sermon "Scripture, A Record of Human Sorrow." Dr. Adkins, Director of Academics at St. Agnes School in St. Paul, Minnesota, explores how Newman challenges the Enlightenment's denial of the fall by revealing scripture's solemn character as a divine mercy—a remedy against the fleeting vanities of worldly pleasures. Through the Gospel story of the paralyzed man at the Pool of Bethesda, Newman illustrates how we can spend our lives lying helpless by the pool, waiting for healing that only Christ can provide. The discussion examines how scripture's "dark" tenor serves as a forewarning that saves us from greater disappointment, teaching us to maintain a balanced Christian outlook that rejoices in earthly blessings without clinging to them. Dr. Adkins also shares insights on embodying Newman's educational vision through the work of Christopher Dawson, John Senior - co-founder of the Integrated Humanities Program at the University of Kansas), and Don Briel, emphasizing the importance of prayer, virtue, and the witness of saints in forming young people. The episode concludes with Newman's powerful reminder that the true Christian lives with detachment, knowing that "the world is not yours" and that all blessings will be received again in the world to come.

To approach Newman's majestic thought it is highly recommended to download the formatted sermon at www.newmanontap.com. Comments and suggestions are appreciated on the same site.