Episode 2.22

Introducing the Teleological Argument

Is the fine-tuning of the universe the result of necessity, randomness, or intelligent design?

In this first episode of our new series, we explore the teleological argument—the idea that purpose, order, and complexity in the universe point to a Designer. We trace the argument’s roots from Aquinas and Paley to modern thinkers like Dembski, Behe, Gonzalez, and Hugh Ross. Along the way, we define key concepts like specified complexity and irreducible complexity, and contrast them with evolutionary and naturalistic explanations.

Whether you're a skeptic or believer, philosopher or layperson, this episode lays the foundation for a robust, layered discussion of one of the most compelling arguments for the existence of God.

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Episode 2.21

The Final Chapters of Ezra and Nehemiah

In the concluding episode of our Ezra-Nehemiah series, we walk through Nehemiah 8–13—an emotional and theological rollercoaster. From the public reading of the Law and national covenant renewal to the bittersweet failures that follow, this episode traces Israel’s spiritual high points... and its all-too-human shortcomings. We see the people hunger for God's Word, confess generational sin, and recommit to obedience. But by the final chapter, old sins resurface—neglect of worship, disregard for Sabbath, and compromise through intermarriage.

What do we learn? That revival is real—but it’s fragile. That leaders like Nehemiah can reform, but only God can transform. And that our ultimate hope isn’t in policy or perseverance, but in the unshakable faithfulness of the Lord.

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Episode 2.20

In the conclusion of this two-part series, Michael continues the conversation with Brian, whose farming accident became a turning point not just physically—but spiritually. In this episode, we shift from trauma to transformation. Brian reflects on the challenges of recovery, the unexpected graces that followed, and how God used pain to shape his priorities and deepen his faith. This is a testimony to God’s sovereignty in suffering, and how true strength often begins in surrender.

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Episode 2.19

Walls, Warfare, and Worship

In Episode 4 of our Ezra/Nehemiah series, we follow the bold return of Nehemiah as he hears of Jerusalem’s broken walls and leads a movement of restoration from ruin. Spanning chapters 1–7, this episode traces Nehemiah’s heartfelt prayer, strategic leadership, and relentless faith in the face of both external opposition and internal corruption. We explore the teamwork behind the wall’s rapid reconstruction, the justice issues Nehemiah confronts among the returned exiles, and how faith-fueled resilience empowered a people to finish their task in just 52 days. Through conflict, reform, and organization, God’s hand is clearly seen rebuilding not just a wall—but a nation.

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Episode 2.18

In this powerful and personal episode, Michael sits down with a friend from his hometown who shares the story of a farming accident that changed his life forever. This isn’t just about machinery or missteps. It’s about clarity in crisis. This is a story of tragedy, survival, and deep reflection. Of how quickly the status quo can shatter—and what really matters when it does. Whether you're on a farm or far from it, this conversation invites you to consider what you'd see clearly in your own moment of crisis—and what you might need to change before that day comes.

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Episode 2.17

In this episode, we witness a fresh movement in Israel’s return from exile—led not by a builder like Zerubbabel, but by a teacher and priest named Ezra. Sent by King Artaxerxes, Ezra returns to Jerusalem decades after the temple’s completion, carrying royal authority and a heart devoted to God’s Word. His mission? To study, obey, and teach the Law of the Lord.

We explore Ezra’s arrival, his reliance on God’s hand of protection, and his grief when he discovers Israel’s spiritual compromise. The story turns from joyful return to heartbreaking repentance, as the people confess their sin of intermarriage with pagan nations. Through Ezra’s brokenness and bold leadership, we’re reminded that true revival begins with God’s Word and leads to real repentance. This is not just a history lesson—it’s a call to examine where we have set our hearts.

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Episode 2.16

Can we explain morality, reason, consciousness, or beauty without God? In this episode, we walk through the Moral Argument for God's existence and expand into a broader set of transcendental arguments that point to a divine Creator.

We begin by showing that if God does not exist, objective moral values and duties lose their foundation—morality becomes subjective or evolutionary. Yet our shared moral experience strongly supports the idea that real right and wrong exist. We then build on this by exploring other features of human experience—reason, consciousness, beauty, and logic—that are best explained by the existence of a personal, intelligent, and moral God.

From Richard Dawkins' materialism to Plantinga’s Evolutionary Argument Against Naturalism, we weigh modern objections and show why the Christian worldview offers a more coherent and compelling foundation for the way we actually live and think.

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Episode 2.15

In this episode, we trace the first major movement of Ezra (chapters 1–6), where the Persian king Cyrus fulfills biblical prophecy by sending Jewish exiles back to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. Though often overlooked, the main characters here aren’t Ezra, but Zerubbabel, a descendant of David, and Jeshua, the high priest’s grandson. Together they lead over 40,000 people on a journey home. The altar is rebuilt and worship resumes, but when the temple foundation is laid, reactions are mixed—some celebrate, others weep over its lesser glory. Opposition arises from the surrounding peoples, halting construction for 16 years. This delay isn't a failure of God's plan, but part of His sovereign design.

Prophets Haggai and Zechariah reignite the work, calling the people to prioritize worship and trust God. Darius, the current king, confirms the original decree and even funds the temple’s completion. The temple is finally finished, dedicated, and celebrated with Passover. This movement sets the tone for the book’s recurring message: human leadership can’t bring lasting revival, but God is always at work. Even when results are mixed or delayed, He weaves adversity into His redemptive plan. The call for us is to remain faithful, to keep building, and to trust the God who stirs hearts and moves history.

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Episode 2.14

The church isn’t a building or a brand—it’s a people on mission, empowered by God and equipped with spiritual gifts. In the final episode of our series on biblical church ministry, we turn our focus to the people who make up the body of Christ.

We explore what Scripture teaches about the universal church and the local church, the ongoing roles of elders and deacons, and the unique, Spirit-empowered gifts given to every believer. From leadership to service, teaching to encouragement, every part matters—and every person is placed by God for a purpose.

Whether you're a pastor, a new Christian, or somewhere in between, this episode challenges you to consider how God has shaped and gifted you for the good of the church and the glory of Christ.

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Episode 2.13

They’re not miracle workers, prophets, or kings—so why do Ezra and Nehemiah matter? In this kickoff episode of our new series, Michael and Zach explore why these often-overlooked books are anything but boring. Too often reduced to leadership manuals, the real story is far richer: faithful men giving everything to restore God’s people… and still falling short.

We unpack the structure, timeline, and purpose of Ezra–Nehemiah, showing how the three movements of the book mirror one another with deep theological intent. Each begins with hope, faces opposition, and ends with mixed results. Through it all, we see God’s sovereignty, human failure, and the aching need for a better Savior. These books don’t just teach leadership—they point forward to Christ.

Whether you're new to Ezra and Nehemiah or revisiting them with fresh eyes, this episode lays the groundwork for a deeper journey through two books that belong together and tell one story of longing, faith, and future hope.

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