In this conversation, Dan Paterson, founder of Questioning Christianity, shares his spiritual journey, the challenges of faith, and the importance of addressing doubts. He discusses the problem of evil, the nature of hell, and the role of emotional intelligence in apologetics. Patterson emphasizes the need for compassion when engaging with skeptics and highlights the significance of community and scripture in maintaining a vibrant faith. He also shares insights into his future projects and the impact of historical Christian thought on contemporary issues.

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with Brendan Malone, a prominent figure in pro-life education and cultural ethics. They discuss the decline of Western civilization, exploring themes of spiritual collapse, the importance of Christian ethics, and the role of education in fostering a revival. Brendan shares insights from his own spiritual journey, emphasizing the need for a return to foundational truths and the significance of prayer and contemplation in navigating today's cultural challenges. The conversation highlights the hope found in young people returning to faith and the potential for a cultural renaissance through authentic Christian living.

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Sam Bloore, exploring his unique journey from medicine to pastoral ministry. They discuss the concept of emerging adulthood, its five key features, and the importance of mentorship and cultural discernment for young adults. Sam shares insights on identity exploration, the need for stability, and the significance of experiencing God in everyday life. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, support, and spiritual practices in navigating the challenges of emerging adulthood.

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with Dr. Zachary Ardern, an evolutionary biologist, to explore the complex relationship between faith and science. Zach shares his personal journey from Young Earth Creationism to a theistic evolution perspective, discussing the implications of randomness in evolution and the evidence for common ancestry. The conversation delves into the role of design in the evolutionary process, the theological significance of human origins, and the challenges of maintaining faith in a secular academic environment. Throughout the discussion, Zach emphasizes the importance of viewing science as a legitimate Christian endeavor and the need for open dialogue between faith and scientific inquiry.

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk interviews Nic Blackie, a young apologist and director of youth camps and schools for Thinking Matters. They discuss Nic's journey of faith, the challenges of suffering, and the importance of sharing the gospel with young people. Nic shares his experiences in starting a Jesus Club in high school, his passion for youth apologetics, and the influence of Summit Ministries on his approach to ministry. The conversation also touches on the boldness of today's youth, common questions about Christianity, and the significance of having a supportive partner in ministry.

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, Todd Funk interviews Rebecca Valerius, a classical educator and author, who shares her journey of faith, her passion for apologetics, and her insights on navigating doubt and deconstruction in Christianity. They discuss the importance of community, the role of philosophical and literary apologetics, and the challenges of integrating faith with science. Rebecca also highlights the significance of Chesterton's works and the rise of individual spirituality among young people. The conversation emphasizes the need for healthy questioning and the support of community in strengthening faith.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Rebecca Valerius

00:57 Rebecca's Faith Journey

04:00 Exploring Apologetics

07:02 The Society for Women of Letters

11:58 Understanding Deconstruction

19:50 The Role of Doubt in Faith

24:59 Healthy vs. Destructive Questioning

29:56 The Problem of Evil

33:42 Apologetics in Modern Spirituality

35:10 The Individualistic Search for Meaning

39:07 Navigating Doubt and Authority

43:32 Trusting God in Parenting

45:17 Science and Faith: Bridging the Gap

51:18 Wrestling with Doubts and Atheistic Arguments

52:25 The Influence of GK Chesterton

55:32 The Joys and Challenges of Teaching

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with Sam Treadwell, who shares his transformative journey from atheism to Christianity. Sam discusses his exploration of various faith systems, the intersection of science and faith, and the role of prophecy in validating Christianity. He emphasizes the importance of addressing doubts and challenges within faith, the historical impact of Christianity on society, and the need for compassionate conversations around LGBTQ+ issues. The conversation concludes with insights into the future of apologetics and the potential for digital learning in faith education.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Faith and Science

02:51 Sam's Journey from Atheism to Christianity

05:48 Exploring Spiritual Landscapes in Asia

08:55 Understanding World Religions and Truth

11:49 The Science-Faith Interface

14:51 Prophecy and Validation of the Bible

20:52 Faith, Doubt, and Reasoning

23:13 Navigating Doubts and Truth in Faith

29:54 Christianity's Impact on Society

32:43 Addressing LGBTQ+ Issues in Christianity

40:39 The Future of Faith Seminars

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with Dale Campbell, who shares his journey from Missouri to New Zealand and his role in the Auckland Church Network. The conversation explores themes of unity in diversity, the importance of social justice from a biblical perspective, and the challenges of navigating doctrinal differences among various Christian denominations. Dale emphasizes the need for curiosity and understanding in interactions with others, particularly in the context of social justice and community support. The discussion also touches on the influence of media on perceptions of justice and the importance of humility and mercy in addressing societal issues.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Dale Campbell and His Journey

02:45 Auckland Church Network: Vision and Mission

05:51 Unity in Diversity: The Role of Ecumenism

08:30 Cultural Diversity and the Gospel

11:23 Social Justice: A Biblical Perspective

14:17 The Drama Triangle: Understanding Oppression and Solutions

24:12 Understanding the Drama Triangle

28:13 Cycles of Vengeance and Dependency

32:39 The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions

37:35 The Complexity of Mercy and Justice

44:20 The Importance of Vulnerable Conversations

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk engages with J. Warner Wallace, a former cold case detective and author, discussing the intersection of faith, identity, and the importance of the next generation. Wallace shares insights on grand parenting, the challenges of identity, the impact of trauma, and the role of community in faith. He emphasizes the need for a strong foundation in Christ and the importance of addressing the problem of evil and philosophical naturalism in discussions about faith. The conversation highlights the significance of balancing work and family, as well as the future of the church in a changing cultural landscape.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to J. Warner Wallace

02:50 The Importance of Family and Generational Influence

05:35 Impacting the Next Generation

08:27 Identity and Its Challenges

11:14 The Connection Between Identity and Trauma

14:08 Identifying False Worship and Devotion

17:05 The Burden of Identity and Ministry

21:31 Identity and Purpose: The Shift in Values

23:57 Measuring Success: Metrics and Misplaced Devotion

26:11 Climbing the Highest Mountain: Prioritizing Identity in Christ

28:55 The Journey of Sanctification: Navigating the Bumpy Hallway

30:56 Finding Joy Beyond Ministry: Personal Hobbies and Family

35:34 Legacy and Influence: The Role of Grandparenting

42:56 Engaging the Next Generation: Youth Ministry and Apologetics

45:01 The Impact of Apologetics Camps

46:06 Cultural Shifts and Church Attendance

47:25 The Pendulum of Church Practices

48:57 Reimagining Church Models

50:43 Community Engagement and Service

52:33 The Future of Church Dynamics

54:23 Building Authentic Community

56:24 Navigating the Problem of Evil

58:34 Philosophical Naturalism and Skepticism

01:01:24 The Role of Miracles in Faith

01:03:05 Identity in Christ and Its Implications

In this episode of the Thinking Matters podcast, host Todd Funk interviews Max Jeganathan, a senior research fellow at the Center for Public Christianity in Australia. They discuss the role of public theology in addressing contemporary issues, the complexities of immigration debates from a Christian perspective, and the importance of a Christian voice in public discourse. Max shares his personal experiences with persecution, the cultural differences in faith perspectives, and the crisis of purpose and identity in modern society. They also explore the ethical implications of technology and AI, the importance of finding joy and balance in life, and advice for young people navigating their paths in faith and life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Public Christianity

01:23 Max's Role and Mission at CPX

04:28 Navigating Immigration Debates as a Christian

11:05 The Role of Christians in the Public Square

15:03 Facing Hostility in the Public Sphere

18:33 Personal Experiences of Persecution

20:22 Cultural Differences in Apologetics

22:55 Shifting Questions in Modern Apologetics

26:20 The Freedom Trap and Modern Discontent

29:21 Understanding Misconceptions in Christianity

33:44 The Impact of AI on Society

39:04 Lessons from Leadership Crises

45:17 Finding Joy and Spiritual Recharge

48:34 Advice for the Younger Generation