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[paolo11]

Happy Blessed Sunday and God bless you all. I want to spread this Scripture and Truth

Romans 10:13

“For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.””
‭‭Romans‬ ‭10‬:‭13‬ ‭NLT‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.10.13

Jesus is always the reason for season. He saved us from our sins but we must come to Him and have faith in Him. Jesus loves you.

 

[Chaplain]

New Resources:

Video: The Surprising Genius of Jesus - Part 1, 2, and Q&A (Peter J. Williams)

Jesus Christ is known the world over for his teachings, and he is widely admired for his wisdom and insight. He is often associated with kindness, gentleness, meekness, and love⏤even love for one’s enemies. His life has impacted world history like no one else, and he has inspired many. But when we think of Jesus, we tend not to consider him for his intellect. Yet, no one would deny that as the Son of God he must have been the smartest man who ever lived. In fact, Jesus was a genius, and his genius can be seen in his teachings. Dr. Peter J. Williams, Principal of Tyndale House, Cambridge, will explore the teachings of Jesus and pull the curtain back on Jesus’s incredible intellect.

Video: Fires. Earthquakes. Viruses: God and Natural Disasters.

Tsunamis, earthquakes, floods, forest fires, viruses, and cancer: How could a loving God allow such devastation and suffering from the natural world? How much does human choice play into this? Today I talk with Cambridge University trained scientist and author Dr. Sharon Dirckx on the problem of natural evil and why God allows things like natural disasters and diseases in our world.

Video: Jesus vs. Roman gods (with Dr. Michael Bird)

Is Jesus "just another god" among many? What is the evidence Jesus really claimed to be the one true God, the Creator of all? In this video, I talk with leading NT scholar Michael Bird about his excellent new book Jesus Among the Gods.

Video: Video Games and God: What Is A Theology of Video Games?

What do video games have to do with God? What role do video games have in our lives? My good friend Drew Dixon, author of the book “Know Thy Gamer,” joins me today to navigate through some of the big questions surrounding the world of gaming and how to have a healthy theology of video games.

Video: The Fourth Commandment: Remember the Sabbath

Sabbath rest is a biblical principle that seems to invite a level of controversy: how often, when, who, and in what ways are is the Sabbath to be observed. Joe Boot discusses the connection between work, rest, and worship, why Sabbath-breaking was a capital offense in ancient Israel, and the difference that Christ makes to the form of our observance.

Video: The Fifth Commandment: Honor Your Father and Mother w/ Joel Webbon

In this episode Joe Boot and special guest, pastor Joel Webbon of @RightResponseMinistries discuss the fifth commandment, how it applies not only to young children, but to everyone, and how a worldly mindset has led us to neglect this commandment when it becomes uncomfortable or burdensome.

 

[VN1X]

Currently going through this talk:

 

[VN1X]

I think this is what the kids call "based". Love this hah.

 

[Chaplain]

New Resources:

Video: Christianity, History, and the Modern Age: A Conversation With Tom Holland

"Friends, in February 2023, award-winning historian, author, and broadcaster Tom Holland and I discussed Western culture, the intellectual and moral aspects of Christianity, and the doctrine of original sin, among many other topics, at the Sharing the Church's Story Conference in London." (Mar 23, 2023)

Video: A Reason for the Hope We Have

This week, J.John speaks with a number of apologists who answer questions that many of us have about God.

Video: Did Jesus Rise From the Dead? William Lane Craig | Within Reason #24




Video: How should Christians respond to Critical Theory?

Moderator Albert Mohler along with Andrew Walker and Carl Trueman discuss how believers should respond to critical theory and the promotion of progressive ideology.

Video: A psychiatric nurse on why God allows suffering • Professor John Swinton 1/4

Ruth Jackson speaks to John Swinton, professor in practical theology and pastoral care at Aberdeen University. Having spent 16 years as a psychiatric nurse, John speaks about the importance of spiritual care in medicine. He also shares his thoughts on the problem of suffering.

Video: Tolkien, Lewis, and Evangelization

Andrew Petiprin moderates a conversation between leading J.R.R. Tolkien scholar Dr. Holly Ordway and leading C.S. Lewis scholar Fr. Michael Ward. The pair debate and discuss J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, two Christian literary giants of the twentieth century.

Edited

 

[Chaplain]

New Resources:

Video: Debate With LGBT Theologian Brandan Robertson

Join us for the newest episode of Apologia Radio in which we have a discussion with Brandan Robertson, gay theologian, activist, and "reverend." Dr. James White and Pastor Jeff Durbin will be with him in the Studio for the discussion.

Video: William Lane Craig on Philosophy, Adam & Eve, Jesus, Suffering, and Bad Arguments for God

Renowned Christian thinker William Lane Craig answered listener questions on a live edition of the show (Ask William Lane Craig Anything). He responded to questions on philosophy, Adam & Eve, suffering, the worst argument for God and more.

Video: How Cultural Confusion About Our Bodies Has Led to Moral Chaos

Nancy Pearcey joins the show LIVE to talk about how important it is for Christians to have a biblical understanding of the body. As humans, we are a unity of body and soul and when we get that wrong, we degrade the body which leads to all manner of moral confusion. Join us for a great discussion where Nancy will take your questions live!

Video: Where Does Religion Come From? Religion for Breakfast (Ep. #25)

Andrew Mark Henry is a scholar of religion specialising in early Christianity and the religions of the late Roman Empire. He is also the host of "Religion for Breakfast", a YouTube channel with over 600,000 subscribers producing informative videos on a variety of topics related to religion.

Video: Awaken to the Unseen: Signals of Transcendence (w/ Os Guinness)

Are there certain promptings around us that, if we pay attention, point to the meaning of life? What moments in life are clues to deeper meaning? Os Guinness comes back to the show to discuss his latest book Signals of Transcendence. If you are open to certain clues that there is more to this world that we can see, this show is for you.

Video: The Seventh Commandment: You Shall Not Commit Adultery [Podcast for Cultural Reformation | S6 E29]

In this episode Joe Boot discusses the narrow and broad definitions of adultery in light of both Moses and Christ, explaining how sexuality is much more than the modern notion of consent. Contrary to contemporary thinking, sexual activity outside of the blessed structure of covenant marriage has drastic personal and social consequences.

Video: Theologian John Swinton: darkness, death and extreme suffering - How Holy Week brings hope • Unapologetic 2/4

In part two of his discussion with Ruth Jackson, Professor John Swinton shares what Holy Week means to him and explores what impact the suffering, death and resurrection of Jesus has on a world in need of hope.

Video: 2 Corinthians 11 - Skip Heitzig

"Cult leaders often preach "another Jesus." For instance, Reverend Sun Myung Moon teaches that Jesus was the second Adam who only partially succeeded at His mission; thus, Rev. Moon must complete it. Mary Baker Eddy, founder of the Church of Christ, Scientist (aka Christian Science), wrote of Jesus as a divine being who only appeared to have a physical body. Victor Paul Wierwille, founder of The Way International, rejected the preexistence of Jesus and taught that Jesus was a man with a fallen nature, yet without sin. Charles Taze Russell, the architect of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society (aka Jehovah's Witnesses), taught that the preincarnate Jesus was the archangel Michael, the first of God's creation. Mormonism teaches that Jesus was the first and mightiest spirit son of God and the brother of all the other spirits who would eventually become humans on earth. Followers of the Word-Faith embrace a belief that Jesus was born again after His death and descent into hell. New Age gurus espouse a Jesus who was a great world teacher for His age, but they believe that a new world teacher is about to appear. To accept another Jesus is tantamount to receiving "another spirit" and "another gospel." The authentic gospel is the free offer of salvation to all who believe." (The Apologetics Study Bible)

 

[Doczu]

He is not here; He has risen!

A blessed Easter to all of you brothers!

And to the rest...

Jk

 

[Chaplain]

Video: The Story of Easter - Charlie Styles

"Easter is not merely a historical event, but a momentous announcement: death is dead, love has won, Christ has conquered."

Video: Is There any Evidence for the Resurrection?

"...Lara Buchanan interviews Max Baker-Hytch on the evidence for the resurrection. Lara and Max take a deep dive into the topic, exploring various questions such as whether the resurrection was a bodily resurrection, how Christians think about the resurrection, how people interpret the evidence today, and many others."

Edited

 

[VN1X]

Went to a local Free Baptist community today and came away very impressed. Much different what I'm used to but it was a very kind, open and faithful congregation it seemed like so I will definitely be back next week. Blessed Sunday all!

 

[Chaplain]

Went to a local Free Baptist community today and came away very impressed. Much different what I'm used to but it was a very kind, open and faithful congregation it seemed like so I will definitely be back next week. Blessed Sunday all!

Blessings to you as well.

Brief reflection for today:

“Sometimes life gets overwhelming, and we realize we could use a little help. So we pray for our health to get better, for our marriage to work out, for success in our work that has taken a turn for the worse. There is nothing wrong in praying for these things, but they are not what our salvation is about. Don’t expect Jesus to save us by teaching us to depend on the things we are afraid of losing! He loves us too much to let our health, marriage, or work become the savior of our lives. He will abandon every crusade that searches for salvation from anything or anyone other than God. So he delays, he watches as we race down dead-end streets, he lets our mission du jour crash and burn. To receive Jesus as Savior means recognizing him as our only help. Not our only help for getting what we want. But our only true help.” (Theologian M. Craig Barnes)

 

[Chaplain]

New Resources:

Video: Theologian Graham Tomlin on Re-enchanting... culture

In this inaugural episode, Belle Tindall and Justin Brierley chat with Bishop Graham Tomlin, director of the recently established Centre for Cultural Witness, about modern 'dis-enchantment' and whether there is still room for Christian faith in the contemporary West. They discuss the new podcast Re-Enchanting and the Centre's new website Seen & Unseen.

Video: When to Leave: An Early Emergent Church Leader Speaks Out, with Dan Kimball

Dan Kimball was an integral and successful leader of the early stages of the Emergent Church which would blossom into what we know today as progressive Christianity. Dan shares his story of what made him leave the movement, and offers time-tested wisdom on how to recognize heresy, how to confront it, and when it’s time to leave.

Video: A Transgender Man's Journey with Scripture (Response)

How should Christians think about transgender identities? What does science and Scripture reveal? In this video, Dr. Scott Rae and I review the book In the Margins: A Transgender Man's Journey with Scripture (https://amzn.to/41rf0dJ). This episode is part of the Think Biblically podcast that I co-host at Biola University.

Video: Slavery, Law, Crime and Punishment [Podcast for Cultural Reformation

Theologian Joe Boot explains the biblical understanding of penology – the study and practice of punishing crime. Despite modern objections about the harshness of biblical justice, the penology outlined in God’s law is in fact true justice, and its practice leads to a more just and free society.

Video: Kierkegaard vs. Hegel on Religion and Individuality

In this lecture series, Dr. Peter Kreeft examines key ideas in philosophy by comparing and contrasting two representative philosophers in each episode. In lecture 8, Dr. Kreeft summarizes Hegel, who dropped the distinction between thought and being, denying the existence of anything outside of thought and embracing absolute idealism. Kierkegaard’s own philosophy asks not how thought progresses through stages, as Hegel does, but how an individual human being progresses through life.

Video: The Trinity Is Not A Problem!

Does the Trinity contradict? Was it invented at the council of Nicea? Dr. Fred Sanders, author of The Deep Things of God: How the Trinity Changes Everything, addresses these questions and other top questions about this unique Christian view of God.

Video: Is There Knowledge Beyond Science? Praveen Sethupathy & David Rudge at Western Michigan University

Praveen Sethupathy (Cornell) and David Rudge (Western Michigan) discuss how different forms of knowledge inform their science and worldviews. | Western Michigan University, 2/10/2023

 

[Chaplain]

New Resources:

Video: Dr. Gavin Ortlund Unpacks Problematic Roman Catholic Dogmas - The Becket Cook Show Ep. 127

In today’s episode, Becket talks with historical theologian, Gavin Ortlund, about key questions regarding Roman Catholicism: the apocrypha, purgatory, the Pope, praying to saints and Mary, the assumption of Mary, the immaculate conception, transubstantiation, the Lord’s Supper, Sola Scripture, and what the Greek word, theotokos (God bearer), really means. Gavin’s examination of the history of these dogmas is extremely fascinating and edifying.

Video: Occult & Demons: Is modern-day exorcism biblical? Ex-Psychic Jenn Nizza & Pastor Mike Signorelli

Is the occult just harmless fun? Or are there hidden dangers to alternative spirituality, satanism, and even new-age practices? Increasingly the debate is not about good vs evil but my truth vs your truth. Ex-psychic Jenn Nizza tells the story of her escape from the occult to Christianity to host Billy Hallowell journalist and author of 'Playing with Fire'. Joining the conversation is deliverance minister Mike Signorelli, lead pastor and founder of V1 Church based in New York City. So is popular culture capitalising on our interest in all things satanic and demonic, or leading us to it? Pauline follows the story of Pauline, an 18-year-old who has school stress, the climate crisis, and the general downfall of society weighing on her mind. This becomes even more complicated when she becomes pregnant from a one-night stand with Lukas, who turns out to be the devil. What's even more surprising is that this German original show has been green-lit by Disney+, the home of Pixar movies, Mickey Mouse, and National Geographic. So what’s going on here? Should we be pushing back against this obsession with evil, or just chilling out? And are we in danger of creating a future that no-one wants to live in?

Video: The Book That Made Your World | Vishal Mangalwadi

John and Vishal Mangalwadi take a deep dive into how the Bible has shaped the world today, through the lens of the British Empire in India. Vishal explains how key ideas we now take for granted, such as democracy and human rights, explicitly derive from the Bible. Vishal draws out the political implications of the Bible, from God’s commands to Israel to Jesus’s teaching to love our neighbour as ourselves, which had such an impact on the formation of modern, democratic India. Vishal Mangalwadi is an Indian philosopher and social reformer who has written several popular books on the Bible’s seismic influence. Alongside thinkers such as Jordan Peterson and Tom Holland (author of Dominion), Vishal is reclaiming the importance of a book many people today consider outdated and irrelevant. Vishal has lectured in over 40 countries, published seventeen books (including The Book That Made Your World), and contributed to many more. As a student, comparing Christianity to religions such as Hinduism, Vishal found only one story made sense of the world, and that was the story where “God has revealed Truth in his Word and works”. Since then, he dedicated his life to a blend of study, charity work, public speaking and church support, in both India and America.

Video: BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES FOR WORK, WEALTH AND WISDOM - John Lennox

We have this book available to borrow on our resources table in church. The world of work is expanding. New technologies, industries and means of meeting apart–and–still–together, have presided in the transition of the workplace into a fast, digital and busier–than–ever era. In whichever sector you care to name, work is increasing exponentially, for reducing rewards and benefits. It is more than easy to complain, drag one’s feet while getting out of the door, and face daily tasks with an apathetic attitude. A Good Return does not provide maxims to get you through the day. Instead, it is a book that encourages Christians to view their workspace, be it field, car, classroom or office, as an avenue of worship.

Video: Why Believe in God? | Michael Ruse & William Lane Craig on The Bryan Callen Show

Agnostic philosopher of science Michael Ruse and Dr. Craig conversationally debate one another on theistic concepts, the resurrection of Jesus, the nature of the Gospel accounts, morality, philosophy, Molinism, and more.

Video: The Toxic War on Masculinity, with Nancy Pearcey

How did an ideology arise that condemns masculinity as dangerous and destructive? For example, a headline in the Washington Post reads: ”Why Can't We Hate Men?" A trendy hashtag is #KillAllMen. Books are sold titled I Hate Men, No Good Men, and Are Men Necessary? Nancy Pearcey joins the podcast to discuss her upcoming book which takes readers through American History to discover how the secular script for masculinity turned toxic--and what action we can take to fix it. We often hear that Exhibit A of toxic behavior is evangelical Christian men. But the social sciences tell a very different story. Studies find that family men who attend church regularly test out as the most loving husbands and the most engaged fathers. They have the lowest rate of divorce and--here's the real stunner--the lowest rate of domestic violence of any group in America. The sociological facts explode anti-male stereotypes and show that classic Christianity has the power to overcome toxic behavior and reconcile the sexes.

Video: Horrifying Story out of Witchcraft (w/ Julie Lopez)

Why would a 5th generation witch leave her practice and follow Christ? Julie Lopez was practicing as a witch until her father's suicide completely unraveled her life. In this video, she shares the horrifying story of witchcraft devastated her family, but also the powerful transformation in her life after following Jesus. *There are a few theological issues in which I differ significantly with Julie, but the focus of this interview was on her story. I may revisit some of these issues for clarity in an upcoming video. In the meantime, please discuss respectfully below!

Video: Detransition: The Latest Research (and Inconvenient Truth)

What does the current research show about transition, transition regret, and detransition? Dr. Paul Rhodes Eddy discusses his in-depth study of the latest scientific findings, and also shares his insights for how to love people who are transgender.

 

[Puscifer]

Converted to Orthodox Christianity a few months ago because many of their beliefs fell right into things that made me, for lack of a better term, cringe at many other denomination's and behaviors of other churches line baptist and protestant, and the open rejection of Mormonism and Jehovah's witnesses as denomination's of the church. I have to say it's felt felt like home. If you're ever in Rochester I recommend a visit up St John the Baptist Orthodox Church, we'd love to have you.

 

[Jinzo Prime]

Converted to Orthodox Christianity a few months ago because many of their beliefs fell right into things that made me, for lack of a better term, cringe at many other denomination's and behaviors of other churches line baptist and protestant, and the open rejection of Mormonism and Jehovah's witnesses as denomination's of the church. I have to say it's felt felt like home. If you're ever in Rochester I recommend a visit up St John the Baptist Orthodox Church, we'd love to have you.

What do you like about Orthodoxy in particular?

 

[Puscifer]

What do you like about Orthodoxy in particular?

The acknowledgement of God as the head of the Church and not a pope-like figure, before I settled in my home church even the acknowledgement of the patriarch was more akin to "yeah he exist, but that doesn't change what we're called to do" and that goes into my next 2 points

1) There's a massive difference in the Orthodox Patriarch and the Pope, and he doesn't have the power to make dogmatic choices In the name of the Church. Current popes ideas on getting along with religions and ideas that openly talk of exterminating Christians and mocking Jesus is bizarre, in addition to saying things like atheist will go to heaven. I'm not saying I want anyone to go to hell, but if I'm willing to buy into the bible and it's belief system front to back I don't think I'm weird for saying that we should take it seriously

2) The prophecy is complete, front to back that's all there is and all these post-modern opinions of people who say things like God told me in a dream, etc are seen as blasphemous.


That Mary is the God bearer and deserving of our praise but not this god-adjacent figure worthy of our prayers

There's much more outreach found than in any other denomination I've seen so far, I love there's so many volunteers and collections for the church that I see going to hard to reach places like youth offenders and the homeless

The Bible is interpreted as it's written within the context of it's history, not remixed and misinterpreted to push agendas.

That you can't earn your way into heaven, this is something HUGE for me personally

Their outward respect for animals and they're deserving of respect and care, I'm not a vegan but I love animals and outward appreciation and respect made me happy on so many levels

 

[IFireflyl]

Converted to Orthodox Christianity a few months ago because many of their beliefs fell right into things that made me, for lack of a better term, cringe at many other denomination's and behaviors of other churches line baptist and protestant, and the open rejection of Mormonism and Jehovah's witnesses as denomination's of the church. I have to say it's felt felt like home. If you're ever in Rochester I recommend a visit up St John the Baptist Orthodox Church, we'd love to have you.

I'm curious as to what Baptists and Protestants did to make you cringe. Do you care to elaborate?

 

[Chaplain]

Video: Rev. Tim Keller on The Problems of Modern Identity (his last lecture before his death)

"Taped just a few weeks before his death, he left behind one final message for Redeemer Presbyterian Church and any who would wish to follow in his footsteps. “Forget about your reputation. Jeremiah 45:5: ‘Seekest thou great things for thyself? Seek them not.’ … Ministers, don’t make your ministry success your identity… People, don’t make getting a big name in New York City your main thing. Lift up Jesus’ name. Hallowed be thy name. Forget yourself.” For those who had the honor to hear him, to be counseled by him, to be challenged by him—he will never be forgotten." (5/24/23)

Quote from Keller's talk:

"Traditional identity you are your duties and uh, your self-esteem comes from the honor that your community bestows on you as you sacrifice your selfish interests for the greater good. But modern identity is you are your desires you're not your duties and your self-esteem is the dignity you bestow on yourself when you assert who you are against any claims that church or state or family or God have on you. [Philosopher] Charles Taylor says the Modern Self is what he calls a Buffered Self which means there's a hard coding. Older selves, you might say traditional selves, were porous. Now what does that mean? Older selves felt the pull of things outside. God or family or the needs of my country or the needs of my community are in some ways more real than my inner desires. That's what's real and my inner desires they come and go and I've got to bring this into alignment with that. But in a Buffered Self, or you might say, a Hard-Coated Self, there's no feeling... The Modern Self doesn't feel the pull of anything outside. Your feelings are more real than any claims from outside... which means by the way when a traditional self adopts a belief a religious belief because it's true and because it's actually more real and more important than my feelings that go back and forth. But when a modern self adopts a religious belief it only adopts religious belief if it fits in with the way you like to see yourself because what's inside is more real than what's outside... Therefore, all religious beliefs in a Modern Self are very very thin and they're discardable because they're basically accessories for the kind of self that you want to be." (Theologian Timothy Keller, 1950-2023)

 

[VN1X]

Their impressions of Jordan Peterson (at 9 min something) are spot on lol

 

[Chaplain]

Video: The One Edit That Changed History

"Benjamin Franklin's revision of the Declaration of Independence by replacing "sacred and undeniable" with "self-evident" marked a shift towards post-Christian ideals and the development of the modern world. The year 1776, which saw the American War of Independence and a host of other formative events, was pivotal to the development of the modern world, marked by its weird and ex-Christian characteristics. In this video, [Theologian] Andrew Wilson also discusses his book "Remaking the World" on the origin story of post-Christian Western thought and the importance of understanding how the world came to be in its present state. By understanding the grace of God and extending freedom to others, we can appreciate the context of the world we live in and root ourselves in God even in a post-Christian generation." (7/2/23)

 

[kvltus lvlzvs]

I'm currently converting to Orthodox Christianity from Vajrayana Buddhism and some occult stuff (not super sketchy occult stuff, but still occult). I guess I've already converted, but I have to go through the Catechism phase. I was raised protestant and wasnt into it, but Christianity - particularly Orthodoxy, makes a lot of puzzle pieces fall into place about life and our place in the natural order of things.

 

[Chaplain]

Video: Prominent New Atheist Wakes Up to His Main Error | Frank Turek | SPIRITUALITY | Rubin Report

"Dave Rubin of “The Rubin Report” talks to Frank Turek author of “I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist” about the collapse of the New Atheist movement; Richard Dawkins admitting that religion may be necessary for a flourishing society; the failure of atheism in providing a sense of purpose and meaning; what prominent atheists like Christopher Hitchens and Sam Harris overlooked; how only religions like Christianity and Judaism can protect a society from the worst elements of radical Islam; the spreading of social justice and woke culture in America’s churches; the case for intelligent design as a part of the story of evolution; how morality always ends up being legislated; Jordan Peterson’s utilitarian view of religion; and much more." (7/2/23)

 

[Chaplain]

Video: Biblical Series: Exodus Episode 1: Faith as an Adventure

"In episode one, Jordan and his roundtable explore the themes of freedom against tyranny, God’s allowance of evil, and faith as an adventure within the first three chapters of Exodus. They seek to answer the question of whether one should take the easy path even if it is wrong or do what is right despite it being hard." (7/17/23)

"Scholars at the table are Dr. Douglas Hedley (Professor of the Philosophy of Religion, Cambridge University), Dr. Os Guinness (English Author and Social Critic), Dr. James Orr (Assistant Professor of Philosophy of Religion, Cambridge), Dennis Prager (author of the Rational Bible Series, Co-Founder of PragerU), Dr. Stephen Blackwood (President of Ralston College), Gregg Hurwitz (novelist, screenwriter, and comic book creator), and Jonathan Pageau (Christian thinker and artist)."

 

[Chaplain]

Video: The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God - Justin Brierley || THE WAY BACK

Glen Scrivener from Speak Life interviews Justin Brierley about his latest book 'The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God' - Why new atheism grew old and secular thinkers are considering Christianity again.

Video: Should we deconstruct or reconstruct? with Olivia Jackson, Preston Ulmer and Vince Vitale

Unbelievable takes on the often-misunderstood topic of deconstruction in the sense of deconstructing Christian faith or becoming exvangelical is another phrase you might have come across. It refers to a process, some would say a movement, where individuals critically examine their beliefs, doctrines, and assumptions about Christianity. It often involves re-evaluating traditional interpretations of scripture, exploring different theological perspectives, and grappling with doubts and uncertainties. Many proponents of deconstruction argue that it can lead to a deeper and more authentic faith by shedding outdated or harmful beliefs and embracing a more personal and nuanced understanding of spirituality. Critics, on the other hand, express concerns that deconstruction can result in a crisis of one's most foundational beliefs crumble beneath them. But is this at all surprising? With failures of the church to reflect Jesus, with abuse by Christian leaders in the news daily, where is one to turn? Will deconstruction take you deeper? Or will it destroy your belief altogether? Vince Vitale hosts this week, and his guests are Olivia Jackson author of (un) Certain A Collective Memoir of Deconstructing Faith and Preston Ulmer, founder of The Doubters Club and author of Deconstruct Faith Discover Jesus - how questioning your religion can lead you to a healthy and holy God.

Video: Sound of Freedom: Full Discussion with Jim Caviezel & Tim Ballard on Human Trafficking

The voices of and behind the hit film, “Sound of Freedom,” — including Tim Ballard and the actor who portrays him on screen, Jim Caviezel — break down the utter destruction wrought by human trafficking they aim to convey to audiences across the nation. Ultimately, Sound of Freedom is a force for good, which is why many of the usual proponents of wickedness and debauchery are taking issue with it.

Video: Sharon Dirckx & Emily Qureshi-Hurst • Do Consciousness & Near Death Experiences Prove an Afterlife?

"What should we make of accounts of “near-death experiences”? Do they give credible support to the possibility that there is life after death, or can they be explained away as mere physical phenomena? Indeed, what is the connection between the brain, consciousness, and "the soul" (if it even exists)? Christian speaker and former neuroscientist Dr Sharon Dirckx, author of "Am I Just My Brain?", engages with atheist philosopher Dr Emily Qureshi-Hurst, college lecturer and Junior Research Fellow at the University of Oxford and author of the book "God, Salvation, and the Problem of Spacetime"."

Video: John Lennox: Scientific Discovery REVEALS God's Existence & REFUTES Atheism | Eric Metaxas

"John Lennox joins Eric Metaxas to discuss how math and science point to an intelligent Creator, and how scientific discovery increasingly makes the case for God. Lennox refutes the idea that Christianity is not an evidence-based faith and how math reveals God's law and order."

 

[Chaplain]

Video: Biblical Series: Exodus Episode 2: Man’s Relationship With the Divine

"Then as now, societies turn from God and collapse until someone takes on the burden of restoring the relationship. As Jordan and his round table continue to analyze Exodus, new themes emerge including Moses’ willingness to respond to God’s call, man’s relationship with the divine, the possibility of turning evil into good with God’s help, and how peoples’ willingness not to take a stand contributes to their downfall." (7/24/23)

 

[VN1X]

Finished reading Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis and it was thoroughly insightful. A transformative read.

That's two books finished out of the Signature Classic collection.

 

[Chaplain]

Video: The Man With No Legal Identity - Life off the Grid

"Deep in the woods of rural Appalachia is a man that lives alone on his land. He grows his own food, has no government ID, his overhead is $140 a month, and he possesses a claimed happiness by being free from the system, inspired by faith. Join me as we travel into the sticks of Kentucky to dive into the fascinating world of Titus Morris." (7/29/23)

 

[Scotty W]

I learned the other day that in early manuscripts Barabbas was actually Jesus Bar Abbas. What are the implications?

 

[Chaplain]

New videos:

Video: Broken Planet: If There's a God, Then Why Are There Natural Disasters and Diseases? - Sharon Dirckx

"The question of suffering is one of the greatest hurdles to Christian faith. When believers respond to the question of why there is suffering in the world, they often turn to the free-will defence - that humans make bad choices that can cause suffering for others. However, that doesn't explain why children die of cancer, or why the latest earthquakes, tsunamis or pandemics have been so destructive. These seem to happen not because of our choices, but in spite of them. So how do we make sense of these events in light of belief in a good God? This talk takes an honest and holistic look at the question of natural disasters." (8/9/23)

Video: Biblical Series: Exodus Episode 4: The 10 Plagues of Egypt

"Often, our freedom of choice keeps us from claiming the freedom God offers. As the round table in Exodus chapters seven through nine discuss, Pharaoh's refusal to let the Israelites leave is at the center of the conversation. Power, the desire to change, and the significance of the plagues are also discussed." (8/7/23)

Video: Peter Boghossian & Kathleen Stock: Lesbians Don’t Have Penises

Kathleen Stock is a British philosopher, author, and gender critical feminist who recently left mainstream academia. She resigned her professorship at Sussex University at the end of 2021 due to ideological censorship and death threats from trans activists. Like Peter Boghossian, Kathleen is a Founding Faculty Fellow at the University of Austin, Texas (UATX). Peter and Kathleen were both participating faculty in UATX’s Forbidden Courses program this summer and met for a conversation. Kathleen talks about the strange new world LGBTQ+ activists have created for gay men and lesbians, particularly defining gay identity as “same gender attracted.” Kathleen, herself a lesbian, is concerned about the confusing messages young lesbians receive from gender ideologues—like the notion that “lesbians can have penises.” Peter and Kathleen also discuss preferred pronouns, cultish qualities in trans activism, the new Virgin Mary (any pregnant trans man), the callow misuse of philosophy, the effect of morally fashionable beliefs on philosophers, ruined academic disciplines, Wittgenstein, women’s competitive nature, the Substitution Hypothesis, the ethics of gender transition, backward reasoning, and hope for the next generation. Kathleen Stock’s latest book is "Material Girls: Why Reality Matters for Feminism." She is a columnist for UnHerd and recently launched The Lesbian Project with Julie Bindel.

 

[VN1X]

I learned the other day that in early manuscripts Barabbas was actually Jesus Bar Abbas. What are the implications?

I will let you know after I've completed Bible study next year!

Watching this again, one of the most powerful and inspiring testimonies I've seen. Can't believe he did all of that in one take. While on the go. In public. Insane lol.

 

[VN1X]

Imagine posting something as abhorrent as those 'people' did in response to an innocent person dying. Unbelievable.


This debate was all kinds of crazy lol:





Haven't started this new debate yet but put it on my watch list.

 

[VN1X]

Blessed Sunday all!

Have any of you read John Lennox or Frank Turek's books? If so which do you recommmend? Chaplain have you?

 

[Marvel14]

First page has half the posters banned...

 

[sono]

Happy Monday

In a busy stressful world I get a lot of peace in god

 

[King Dazzar]

Blessed Sunday all!

Have any of you read John Lennox or Frank Turek's books? If so which do you recommmend? Chaplain have you?

Unfortunately I dont read books. Its just not a medium which I enjoy. So it makes it even more special that the one exception I do have is for the bible and the bible alone. Every Sunday for 11 years I read one chapter - its a commitment I made to God. After 11 years whilst sticking to that commitment, I have just come to the end of John!

God bless.

 

[VN1X]

Unfortunately I dont read books. Its just not a medium which I enjoy. So it makes it even more special that the one exception I do have is for the bible and the bible alone. Every Sunday for 11 years I read one chapter - its a commitment I made to God. After 11 years whilst sticking to that commitment, I have just come to the end of John!

God bless.

Have you tried any CS Lewis? His apologetic works are very engaging and super easy to get through as they're on the shorter side.

I'd very much recommend The Screwtape Letters or Mere Christianity. Both are very accessible and enlightening reads. Despite those being written in the 40s they've never been more relevant!

 

[King Dazzar]

Have you tried any CS Lewis? His apologetic works are very engaging and super easy to get through as they're on the shorter side.

I'd very much recommend The Screwtape Letters or Mere Christianity. Both are very accessible and enlightening reads. Despite those being written in the 40s they've never been more relevant!

Unfortunately, books just arent something I enjoy. Besides, its kind of special to me to keep the bible as my one book I do spend time with. I do get some other spiritual input via a couple of youtube channels and through conversations.

 

[VN1X]

Unfortunately, books just arent something I enjoy. Besides, its kind of special to me to keep the bible as my one book I do spend time with. I do get some other spiritual input via a couple of youtube channels and through conversations.

Fair enough!

Though I will say, if you do ever find the itch to pick up a book then you can do no wrong with the aforementioned ones. They've definitely bolstered my faith.

 

[King Dazzar]

Fair enough!

Though I will say, if you do ever find the itch to pick up a book then you can do no wrong with the aforementioned ones. They've definitely bolstered my faith.

Thanks. Nurturing faith is a good and valuable thing - we can all have moments of question or doubt. I just know what I'm like when it comes to books though lol. What I will do is, do internet searches etc if I come across something when reading the bible that I want clarity on. But God tends to show me the way regardless.

 

[King Dazzar]

Funny enough in terms of faith nurturing and bolstering. I appreciated what I read in chapter 20 of John on only just this Sunday: Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed Jesus knows and understands faith isnt always easy. Even his disciples struggled to believe at times and they were there with him!

God be with you.

 

[-Minsc-]

Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed

I do wonder if I'm confusing a lack of belief with a lack of seeing. Do I believe but not see? Do I want to see to believe?

 

[King Dazzar]

I do wonder if I'm confusing a lack of belief with a lack of seeing. Do I believe but not see? Do I want to see to believe?

I went to a church course some time back, which focused on the book of Matthew. At that time I was still reading the Old Testament. And part of the structure was definitely to try and show the scientific focused attendees proof and provide evidence to help. But for me I told them all I didn't need proof as I already knew. I also told one guy he didnt need to attend church to have a relationship with God. Which caused a stir. Mind you I felt like a heretic quite a lot on that course. But at that time I felt very emboldened with my faith with God, but yet still to know Jesus well.

I guess the point I'm making is that we all can be at different points on our journey through life and with our relationship with God and Christ. And have different moments of strength, awe and comfort, but also weakness or doubt. Obviously speaking with others can help. But essentially for me, you need to reach out to God and/or Jesus and ask them to help you. I'm being serious. I know I am blessed as God and Jesus have responded. But I always need to keep speaking with God and Jesus for help, guidance and reassurance.

I wish you well with it.

 

[VN1X]

Some random videos I stumbled across which I thought were engaging.

 

[VN1X]

So I just discovered HolyName and I'm blown away!





If anything just check out this track from the performance. Incredibly powerful, even more so in the context of the singer's hardships (his wife suffering four miscarriages, him losing his brother & other family members all around the same time). I have no words... talk about a test of faith!

Spoiler

Lead me onward
Lead me onward
I will trust in You
I will trust in You

Lead us onward
Lead us onward
Through the valleys
Through the deserts
To quiet waters

Fall down on your kness
Before the Lamb
No other is worthy
All good comes from his mighty hand

I will trust in You
All good comes from his mighty hand
All good comes from his mighty hand

Wash the filth from my eyes
Savior of wretched man
My dead bones are at your feet
Fall to your kness

 

[VN1X]

Didn't realize Patrick Bet David was a full on apologist.



Nothing but FACTS. So well reasoned.

 

[VN1X]

 

[-Minsc-]

I went to a church course some time back, which focused on the book of Matthew. At that time I was still reading the Old Testament. And part of the structure was definitely to try and show the scientific focused attendees proof and provide evidence to help. But for me I told them all I didn't need proof as I already knew. I also told one guy he didnt need to attend church to have a relationship with God. Which caused a stir. Mind you I felt like a heretic quite a lot on that course. But at that time I felt very emboldened with my faith with God, but yet still to know Jesus well.

I guess the point I'm making is that we all can be at different points on our journey through life and with our relationship with God and Christ. And have different moments of strength, awe and comfort, but also weakness or doubt. Obviously speaking with others can help. But essentially for me, you need to reach out to God and/or Jesus and ask them to help you. I'm being serious. I know I am blessed as God and Jesus have responded. But I always need to keep speaking with God and Jesus for help, guidance and reassurance.

I wish you well with it.

I know sermons and explanations by others have certainly helped. When I was a kid the Bible was not something I could read through. For some reason I had to memorize The Lords Prayer, didn't really care. Pop culture presented the "Your going to hell!" view of Christianity. When I reached the points in my life where I realized I wanted forgiveness I became more open to receiving the message. I don't recall hearing as a child that forgiveness is not something I can earn Accepting what I receive can be a challenge.

 

[AlteredForms]

An outsider looking in:

Look at all this shit! I'm curious though, are Muslim vs. Christian debates going on in this thread? I'm pretty sure that borders on the same shitshow which cancelled the political section.

 

[-Minsc-]

An outsider looking in:

Look at all this shit! I'm curious though, are Muslim vs. Christian debates going on in this thread? I'm pretty sure that borders on the same shitshow which cancelled the political section.

I don't know if those debates are going on in this thread. It's the kind of thing I'd avoid.

 

[King Dazzar]

I know sermons and explanations by others have certainly helped. When I was a kid the Bible was not something I could read through. For some reason I had to memorize The Lords Prayer, didn't really care. Pop culture presented the "Your going to hell!" view of Christianity. When I reached the points in my life where I realized I wanted forgiveness I became more open to receiving the message. I don't recall hearing as a child that forgiveness is not something I can earn Accepting what I receive can be a challenge.

If you think back to around the 13th Century in the UK at least. My understanding is: The Bible wasn't allowed to be read by the common folk or peasants. And instead you were told how to interpret parts of the bible through teachings by the Church and ministers. Going to church was mandatory too and a law by which you were to abide. And if you were in a privileged position and importantly, wealthy. You could act appallingly and then simply pay the church/ministry to pray on your behalf to get into heaven. Which is of course the opposite, of what is the truth in the bible and goes against so much of what Jesus and God are.

Unfortunately this is a fallen world. And sin is present everywhere. Including in organised religion, which can push people away from having a relationship with God. Thankfully we can get passed that and still find God and Jesus. As Jesus reassuringly and understandingly said "In this world you will have trouble" Or think about it another way. If you found it wasn't a challenge and all incredibly easy, then perhaps we should be more concerned that we blend so well in a fallen world. Its a good thing that we dont "fit" too perfectly.

 

[AlteredForms]

I don't know if those debates are going on in this thread. It's the kind of thing I'd avoid.

But VN1X just threw down the gauntlet when he posted a video challenging the Islamic position lol. This thread is supposed to be about Christianity. When dogma wars start breaking out then so are the bans. Just saying of course.