Why are Bible sales experiencing a surprising 22% surge? Is Western culture becoming spiritually curious again? In this episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef welcomes Dr. Sean McDowell—author, speaker, and Biola University professor—to unpack this unexpected trend.

Sean shares insights from his years of engaging the next generation on matters of faith, culture, and apologetics. Together, they explore:

• Why a sharp rise in Bible sales should give us pause—and cautious hope
• How cultural voices like Jordan Peterson and Jonathan Rauch are contributing to renewed interest in Christianity
• Why secularism may be losing momentum among young adults
• How Christians can better engage a spiritually curious culture today—not with confrontation, but with conversation

Drawing on historical shifts, current research, and his experiences equipping students and churches, Sean encourages believers to rethink how we present the gospel in this pivotal moment. Instead of arguing like it's still the era of the "new atheists," it’s time to listen, ask better questions, and meet people in their spiritual hunger.

Guest Bio

Dr. Sean McDowell is a professor of apologetics at Biola University, the cohost of the Think Biblically podcast, and a best-selling author. His latest book, Apologetics for an Ever-Changing Culture, helps Christians address today’s toughest questions with clarity and compassion.

Connect with Sean:

Website: seanmcdowell.org

YouTube: Sean McDowell

Instagram: @sean_mcdowell

For more original podcasts from Leading The Way, please visit ltw.org/subscriptions