the middle kingdom

There are certain things about Christianity that is...well...hard to accept. There are things that we would rather not think about and certainly not discuss. And if we’re truly honest, many of us have at one point sympathized with Thomas Jefferson for taking a pair of scissors to his Bible. Hell is one such topic that many might feel embarrassed about. In fact, it’s such a sensitive topic that many today have rejected it altogether. But what does the Bible actually say about hell? Join us in the conversation as we discuss the big question of hell.

Resources:

Crucial Questions About Hell

Hell Under Fire

What is Hell

Erasing Hell

Hell on Trial

Francis Turretin on Hell

As Christians our faith rests on Scripture. Everything we hold to be true about God, man, life now and life to come is because of what is written in this book. But are the 66 books we call “The Bible” a reliable resource? How do we know that it is God’s Word given to us as the Holy Spirit inspired men to write it? How do we know that the books we currently have in our Bible are the only books that should be included or that some of those books that are in the Bible should really be omitted? It’s an important topic, so join us today as we discuss the reliability of the Bible.

Extra Resources:

Canon Fodder

The Canon of Scripture – F.F. Bruce

The New Testament Documents: Are They Reliable? - F.F. Bruce & N.T. Wright

Canon Revisited – Michael Kruger

Truth in a Culture of Doubt - Andreas J. Köstenberger

If Christianity is true and there is really only one God and mediator between God and man, the Lord Jesus Christ, then why are there so many different religions?  Join us in the conversation as we discuss the major religions of the world and why it's not arrogant to say that Christianity is the one true way to God.

Resources:

The Camel

Muslim Evangelism

Neighboring Faiths

Why so Many Gods?

When it comes to faith there are many big questions to discuss.  Before we begin those discussion we need to lay some ground rules.  Why discuss these topics?  What are the correct ways and wrong ways to have dialogue?  Join us in the discussion as we discuss the importance of dialoguing well. 

God is on the move.  He is working in the city through His people.  We believe that our stories matter because our stories are testimony of the power and love of God.  This week Arrier joins us in the studio to share how God is speaking to His children and guiding them to people who need the gospel.  Join us in the conversation. 

It's that time of year when people are gearing up for a summer trip which brings us to the questions, are these sort of trips really worth it?  They cost a lot of money.  There are a lot of inconveniences from the sender and the receiver that will incur.  Are they effective or simply glorified vacations?  Join us as we discuss the details of short-term trips.

Even a short trip to China is met with the same struggles and surprises that we encounter as we settle in for the long haul. Three visitors to Beijing share about their reactions to the city and its culture and leave listeners with a refreshed love for China.

The story of Passover is central to the Christian message. All throughout the Old Testament this shadow of the gospel is repeated until Christ is ushered onto the scene with these words, “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” What is the connection between Christ and this ancient celebration? What are some meaningful truths from this event that will inspire worship in our hearts today? Join us as we discuss this ancient and modern tradition, Passover.

Resources:

Passover in the Time of Jesus

Today we conclude our series in 1 Corinthians by taking a look at chapter 15. It is the pinnacle of the book, everything that has been written is building up to this moment, the resurrection of Jesus. Christianity hinges upon the resurrection. Join us as we discuss the historicity, purpose, and power of the resurrection.

Not only is it important to know what we believe, but it is vital that we know why we believe it and furthermore, how to defend our beliefs to an unbelieving world. Below is a list of some of the world’s top apologists we recommend you read or listen to.

Resources:

William Lane Craig

Tim Keller

Norm Geisler

John Lennox

CS Lewis

Josh McDowell

Lee Strobel

James White

Ravi Zacharias

Today we are in 1 Corinthians 16.  Yes, we know we skipped chapter 15.  Join us next week for that chapter, which is really the point of the entire book...the Resurrection changes everything. 

This week we look at that topic that many feel uncomfortable about, giving.  If God owns everything and doesn't need our time, talents, and treasures, then why give?  If I decide to give, how much should I give? How often should I give?  To whom should I give?  It's estimated that the average U.S. household credit card debt is $6,9291 in revolving balances.  I don't know about you but I am shocked by this fact.  The discussion of giving goes deeper than how much you're dropping in the offering plate...it begins with how we are stewarding the resources given us by the Lord.  How we spend our money is a good indicator of what our idols are.  Jesus Himself said: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:34)

Join us in the conversation...as always, feel free to share your thoughts on the topic!

Resources:

Resources:

Eternal Perspective Ministry, Randy Alcorn

Managing God's Money, Randy Alcorn

Money, Possessions and Eternity, Randy Alcorn

The Treasure Principle, Randy Alcorn

Generosity: Responding to God’s Radical Grace in Community, study kit from Redeemer Presbyterian Church