In this episode of the Current Reality Podcast, hosts Michael Clary and Wade Thomas discuss the impact of stories in shaping our understanding of the world, particularly from a Christian perspective. They cover how stories teach us what is true, normal, and beautiful, and the ways in which popular media subtly catechizes us. The episode includes examples of good stories and literature, highlights the importance of recounting personal and biblical narratives, and offers practical advice for discerning media consumption. They emphasize the necessity of putting yourself in true stories, especially those found in the Bible, and the formative role of the church in helping believers maintain a biblical worldview.

00:00 Welcome to the Current Reality Podcast

00:25 Setting the Scene: Recording in a Pediatrician's Waiting Room

01:55 The Magic of AI in Audio Editing

04:49 Future-Proof Christianity Conference

11:08 The Importance of Stories in Shaping Beliefs

20:33 Contrasting Worldviews in Fiction: Tolkien vs. Martin

32:10 The Impact of Atheistic Narratives

47:20 Chance and Randomness in Modern Storytelling

49:59 The Power of Stories in Shaping Beliefs

50:26 Analyzing Sci-Fi Narratives: 2001 and Prometheus

53:40 The Influence of Music in Movies

55:55 Subversive Themes in Modern Films

56:29 Normalization of Controversial Topics Through Media

58:14 Romance Novels and Their Impact on Women

01:05:56 The Role of Fiction in Shaping Worldviews

01:13:21 Critique of Modern Nature Documentaries

01:15:48 Recommendations for Good Fiction and Biographies

01:24:19 The Importance of Christian Family Histories

01:29:13 Unmasking Cultural Sophistry

01:30:57 Biblical Stories as a Source of Truth

01:34:54 Reasons for Hope in a Secular World

For questions or comments, send us an email at [email protected].

Our church is Christ the King Church in Cincinnati, OH.

The Current Reality Podcast is a resource of King's Domain, Cincinnati, OH.

Resources mentioned in this episode

• University of Notre Dame article on Tolkien’s faith

• Desiring God on Tolkien and Lord of the Rings

• George R.R. Martin on Religion

• Jennifer Lee, writer and director of Frozen on her documentary “Feminist: Stories from Women’s Liberation.”

• Jennifer Lee Women’s History Month Interview with Disney

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Michael's Book "God's Good Design" is now available everywhere

• God's Good Design: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Guide to Human Sexuality