The Holy Post - Phil Vischer

Episode 472: The “Sin of Empathy” & Spotting Toxic Leaders with Jamin Goggin & Kyle Strobel Sep 01, 2021

Former megachurch pastor, evangelical wunderkind, and author of “I Kissed Dating Goodbye,” Josh Harris, has since left his wife and renounced his faith. He’s now pitching himself as an expert guide for other ex-vangelicals. What does his story tell us about the evangelical subculture? Then, strange things are happening at John Piper’s church in Minneapolis where leaders are clashing over issues of race and abuse. And some pastors are resigning after being accused of “the sin of empathy.” Then, Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel return to discuss revisions to their 2017 book “The Way of the Dragon or the Way of the Lamb.” They stopped selling the book and revised it because one of the Christian leaders they celebrated as a “lamb” turned out to be a “dragon.” They’re now asking, why do we so often fail to spot toxic church leaders? Plus, scientists are making mini-brains from stem cells. But to their surprise, the brains have grown eyes. Leading Phil to ask, What could possibly go wrong?

News Segment

Updates from the crew (Jason’s cinnamon rolls and Christian’s film) [1:49]

Stem cell mini-brains with eyes [7:45]

https://www.sciencealert.com/scientists-used-stem-cells-to-make-mini-brains-they-grew-rudimentary-eyes

Josh Harris [16:21] https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill/joshua-harris-mars-hill-podcast-kissed-christianity-goodbye.html

“Bethlehem Baptist Leaders clash over ‘coddling’ and ‘cancel culture’” [33:20] https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2021/august-web-only/bethlehem-bcs-minneapolis-resign-meyer-empathy-rigney.html

Interview with Jamin Goggin & Kyle Strobel The Way of the Dragon or the Way of the Lamb (Revised and updated edition): https://www.thomasnelson.com/p/way-of-the-dragon/

Episode 238 (Prior conversation with Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel): https://www.holypost.com/holy-post-podcast/episode/1eea0773/episode-238-power-and-the-church-withjamin-goggin-and-kyle-strobel

BONUS Patreon question: What do we do with the content and impact from toxic leaders? https://www.patreon.com/posts/55594990

Interview Start [1:00:39]

Why is there a new edition? [1:02:37]

Original story and role of book [1:06:35]

How they processed the news of Jean Vanier’s abusive behavior [1:10:43]

Discerning wolves from lambs - is there hope for progress? [1:16:17]

Ministering to people who have been deceived and hurt [1:24:04]

EPISODE 471 BONUS INTERVIEW - The Mess in Afghanistan with David French Aug 27, 2021

Is the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan the right policy? And will abandoning the country ultimately cost more American lives than staying? And who’s really to blame for the mess that’s unfolding? Skye talks with David French about these issues and more in this special bonus interview. French is the senior editor of The Dispatch, an attorney, the author of numerous books, and an Iraq War veteran. This bonus episode features the first half of Skye’s hour long conversation with David French. The full 60 minute interview is available exclusively for Holy Post patreon supporters.

Full Interview with David French: https://www.patreon.com/posts/55322869

The Dispatch: https://thedispatch.com

Three stages of recent events in Afghanistan [2:26] Moral obligation to Afghans left behind [3:42] https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/when-never-again-becomes-again-and

Response to refugee resettlement objections [8:53] Afghan armies and US military support [16:26] https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/when-the-strongest-tribe-leaves https://www.amazon.com/Strongest-Tribe-Politics-Endgame-Iraq/dp/0812978668

Effect of US withdrawal on future US military credibility [21:12] Who’s really to blame? [26:21]

Holy Post Episode 471: Oreos, Ethics, & Afghanistan with Matthew Soerens Aug 25, 2021

With religious believers among the most likely to downplay the seriousness of both the pandemic and climate change, a recent article claims secular people and atheists are now more empathic and moral than conservative Christians. But is the problem really that evangelicals are less moral, or that they’re more easily deceived? Then, Matthew Soerens from World Relief talks about the unfolding tragedy in Afghanistan. What dangers do the thousands of Afghans who helped the American military face as the Taliban takes back the country, and what obligation does the U.S. have to help them? While evangelicals remain widely opposed to welcoming refugees, will they make an exception for those who risked their lives to help American troops? Plus, a strike at Nabisco threatens the country’s Oreo supply, launching Phil into a rant about cookie varieties and late stage capitalism.

Patreon Bonus with David French: https://www.patreon.com/posts/55322869

News Segment:

Nabisco strike and Phil’s rant about cookie varieties [4:22] https://www.today.com/food/workers-us-nabisco-bakeries-are-strike-t228753

Afghanistan, Haiti, wildfires, floods, heatwaves and droughts [19:12]

Christian’s history with Afghanistan

[20:40] Current situation in Afghanistan [24:40]

Are Christians less empathic and moral, or simply more easily deceived? (Discussion of article below) [32:50] https://www.salon.com/2021/08/21/staunch-atheists-show-higher-morals-than-the-proudly-pious-from-the-pandemic-to-climate-change/

Interview with Matthew Soerens: “Welcoming the Stranger: Justice, Compassion & Truth in the Immigration Debate” - https://www.amazon.com/Welcoming-Stranger-Justice-Compassion-Immigration/dp/0830833595

Interview Start [56:00]

Talking with church leaders about Afghanistan crisis [58:00]

Overview of current situation and America’s history/promises in Afghanistan [59:24]

Responding to the rhetoric that opposes welcoming refugees [1:08:20] https://twitter.com/cortessteve/status/1427839604376444929?

lang=en Evangelical Immigration Table - Statement to President Biden [1:12:34]

https://evangelicalimmigrationtable.com/evangelical-leaders-insist-the-biden-administration-stand-with-afghan-allies/

Practical ways to support [1:14:22]

https://worldrelief.org/

Ongoing crisis - DREAMers and DACA program [1:17:01] https://evangelicalimmigrationtable.com/advocacy/

Episode 470: The Happiest Countries & Childlike Faith with Mandy Smith Aug 18, 2021

The United Nations World Happiness Report is out, and it says the United States is still behind the world’s happiest countries. Can we learn anything from them, or does America’s diversity mean perpetual conflict? Then, pastor and author Mandy Smith says Western culture has warped our understanding of what it means to be a Christian by focusing too much on knowledge and power. The antidote? Embracing Jesus’ call to childlike faith. Also this week—covid skeptics have some explaining to do because last year life expectancy in the US dropped the most since WWII—and it wasn’t because of murder hornets. Plus, a woman sues McDonald’s for tempting her to break her Lenten fast. News Segment: Woman sues McDonald’s after burger ad compelled her to break Lent fast [2:55] https://nypost.com/2021/08/06/woman-sues-mcdonalds-after-burger-ad-made-her-break-her-lent-fast/ COVID-19 caused U.S. life expectancy to drop 1.5 years [09:38] https://time.com/6082192/covid-19-us-life-expectancy-drop/ White evangelical COVID-19 vaccine acceptance has jumped 11 points since March [09:38] https://www.relevantmagazine.com/current/nation/study-white-evangelical-covid-19-vaccine-acceptance-has-jumped-11-points-since-march/ UN report on global happiness [21:47] https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2019/03/21/americans-are-unhappiest-theyve-ever-been-un-report-finds-an-epidemic-addictions-could-be-blame/ https://worldhappiness.report/ed/2021/ Interview with Mandy Smith:Unfettered: Imagining a Childlike Faith beyond the Baggage of Western Culture - https://www.amazon.com/Unfettered-Imagining-Childlike-Baggage-Western/dp/1587435055 Interview Start [48:06] How is Western civilization in a tailspin? [49:56] An antidote for two false ways of engaging faith [52:35] Qualities of a childlike faith [56:01] Wholistic faith and childlikeness [57:29] Humility & honesty within disorder [01:00:37] Error in overreacting to rationality of Western culture [01:05:21] Story about dancing, healing, and releasing control [01:10:31] Reconciling the call to maturity with a childlike faith [01:19:59] Other resources mentioned: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1hiPIEqDMq2yobve2PyTH7?si=4ab2ce3ebf7d4bbb

Episode 469: Fighting Animals, Individualism, & Engaging Teens with Kara Powell Aug 11, 2021

Phil’s Facebook page erupted after the recent episode about reparations—leading the Holy Post gang to ask about the limits of evangelical theology, and how American individualism has shaped our understanding of liberty, economics, and even theology. Then, a prayer service in Portland became a brawl between Proud Boys and Antifa involving paintball guns. Is it a harbinger of more conflicts to come? And a new survey finds Americans are far more confident than Brits they could triumph in a fight against a lion, a chimpanzee, and even an elephant. Then, Skye talks to Kara Powell, the Executive Director of the Fuller Youth Institute, about her latest book, “3 Big Questions That Change Every Teenager.” Based on extensive research, Powell explains the unique challenges young people face today, and how parents and churches can engage them with empathy while creating the right conditions for them to grow in faith.

PATREON BONUS: https://www.patreon.com/posts/54764019 News Segment: Animal News: What animals could you beat in a fight? [3:16]

Proud Boys and Antifa clash at Portland prayer service [13:25]

https://nypost.com/2021/08/08/pr oud-boys-antifa-clash-at-portland-prayer-service/

Reparations, institutional responsibility, and responses on Phil’s Facebook page [19:10] Anthony Bradley - Twitter thread on collective sin [20:49]

Individualism and collectivism [27:55]

Interview with Kara Powell: 3 Big Questions That Change Every Teenager (special link for Holy Post listeners)- https://fulleryouthinstitute.org/3-big-questions/holypostInterview Start [50:28] Recap of research leading to latest book [51:41]

Qualities of an empathetic church [53:54] Three big questions (Identity, Belonging, Purpose) [59:41] Question 1: Identity [1:02:53] Role of technology [1:07:27] Question 2: Belonging [1:12:06] Mistakes for churches to avoid [1:16:16] Questions to spark more questions [1:22:06] Essential qualities for churches to shepherd young people [1:24:28]Other resources mentioned:

Holy Post 468: Lessons from the Rise & Fall of Mars Hill with Mike Cosper Aug 04, 2021

It seems like everyone is talking about the new podcast from Christianity Today, “The Rise & Fall of Mars Hill” about the famed Seattle megachurch and its controversial pastor, Mark Driscoll. The creator of the podcast, Mike Cosper, talks to Skye about the complicated reality of Mars Hill, and what the rest of the evangelical church can learn from its story. Also this week, scientists discover a parasite that could make you live for 200 years, keep you perpetually young, and make you popular. But there’s a catch. A woman lets God take the wheel, literally. The Creation Museum in Kentucky thinks rebuilding the Tower of Babel in the key to racial harmony. And Phil’s confused about an Olympic team’s decision to wear shorts rather than the mandated bikini bottoms. Is it a victory for conservative or progressive values?

https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2021/05/ant-tapeworm/618919/

https://jalopnik.com/woman-crashes-into-multiple-cars-and-a-house-at-120-mph-1847319454

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/scientists-extract-15000-year-old-viruses-tibetan-glacier-180978287/

https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2021/july/tower-of-babel-ark-encounter-ky-ken-ham-answers-genesis.html

https://www.relevantmagazine.com/culture/sports/norways-handball-team-has-been-fined-because-they-didnt-want-to-play-in-bikinis/

The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill: https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill/

Patreon Bonus Segment: https://www.patreon.com/posts/bonus-interview-54513169

Episode 467: “Reparations,” the Review & the Response with Gregory Thompson Jul 28, 2021

Earlier this year, Gregory Thompson and Duke Kwon released their book “Reparations: A Christian Call for Repentance and Repair,” in which they make a biblical argument for the American church’s responsibility to repay the debts inflicted upon black communities by systemic racism and white supremacy. In this moment of political division and evangelical panic over Critical Race Theory, it’s not surprising that responses to the book have been polarized. One of the most negative and widely read reviews came from theologian Kevin DeYoung who said “Reparations” is “clearly not shaped by the gospel.” Thompson and Kwon then wrote a lengthy and detailed response to DeYoung’s review. (Links to both are posted below.) In this episode, Thompson talks to Skye about the debate, criticism of his book, and what the white evangelical response to racism reveals about its theology, mission, and blind spots. Phil and Christian then join Skye to discuss Thompson’s interview, and Christian shares a personal story to remind us all that change is possible.

“Reparations: A Christian Call for Repentance and Repair” - https://www.amazon.com/Reparations-Christian-Call-Repentance-Repair/dp/1587434504/

Kevin DeYoung Review - https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevin-deyoung/reparations-a-critical-theological-review/

Review Response 1 - https://thefrontporch.org/2021/07/sanctifying-the-status-quo-a-response-to-reverend-kevin-deyoung/

Review Response 2 - https://thefrontporch.org/2021/07/distinctively-christian-an-additional-response-to-reverend-kevin-deyoung/

Other resources referenced: https://www.amazon.com/Sum-Us-Everyone-Prosper-Together/dp/0525509569

https://religionnews.com/2021/07/12/dont-believe-in-systemic-racism-lets-talk-about-the-sexual-revolution-charlottesville-robert-e-lee/

Episode 466: Sermongate, Stats, & Sexual Abuse with Mary DeMuth Jul 21, 2021

When news broke that the new president of the SBC lifted portions of his message from the previous SBC president’s sermon without attribution, #Sermongate erupted. The Holy Post crew unpacks the controversy, why so many pastors either outsource their sermon prep or plagiarize, and why the pressure to preach may be harming the church. Then, in a dramatic reversal, new data from Pew says mainline churches are growing while evangelical churches are shrinking. Have evangelicals been burned by their own critique that mainline churches don’t take the Bible seriously? Then, author and advocate Mary DeMuth explains the history of sexual abuse in the church, why cover ups are now so common, how we can respond more redemptively, and the best ways to prevent abuse in the first place. Plus—good news! Scientists say we have a back-up breathing option if our lungs fail.

https://www.cnet.com/news/scientists-say-mammals-can-breathe-through-their-butts-in-emergencies/

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/06/us/sermongate-plagiarism-litton-greear.html

https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill/

https://religionnews.com/2021/07/08/survey-white-mainline-protestants-outnumber-white-evangelicals/

https://www.prri.org/research/2020-census-of-american-religion/

https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2021/06/30/behind-bidens-2020-victory/

https://twitter.com/SkyeJethani/status/1410335364116627465

Resources from Mary DeMuth:

https://www.amazon.com/We-Too-Church-Respond-Redemptively/dp/0736979182

https://www.wetoo.org/resources/

https://www.wetoo.org/survivors/21days/

https://www.netgrace.org/

https://www.amazon.com/Church-Called-Tov-Goodness-Promotes/dp/1496446003

Jesus and John Wayne Episode 4: Fallen Warriors (The ‘10s - Today) Jul 16, 2021

Calvin University history professor Kristin Kobes Du Mez joins Skye Jethani to discuss her bestselling book, "Jesus & John Wayne." In this episode, they look at the rise of Donald Trump among white evangelicals and how their response to the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol mirrors reactions to scandals involving celebrity church leaders. Du Mez also responds to criticism of her book, and where we might find hope for the future of American evangelicalism.

Part 1 - Authoritarian Pastors and the Authoritarian President Part 2 - Insurrection and Sex Scandals (17:22) Part 3 - Christian Media and the Marketplace (27:42) Part 4 - Responses and Criticism (40:32) Part 5 - Done and Undone (52:59)

Episode 465: July 4th Roundup & the Shadow Side of Christian Publishing w/Karen Swallow Prior Jul 14, 2021

This 4th of July, Hobby Lobby took out a controversial full page newspaper ad featuring quotes, or mis-quotes, from America’s founders about being a Christian nation. An editorial from Robert P. Jones says July 4th is a time to decide what we believe more—the Declaration of Independence that says all people are created equal, or the European doctrine of discovery which enshrined white supremacy? And David French asks what it really means to be a patriot and love our country well as Christians. Then, Karen Swallow Prior is back on the show to talk about a recent address she gave to the Evangelical Press Association about Christian publishing’s addiction to celebrity and lack of integrity. But who’s really to blame—Christian book publishers, or Christian book consumers? All of that, plus is Spiderman & the Pope the best MCU team up yet?

https://news.yahoo.com/pope-francis-meets-spider-man-130000577.html

https://www.hobbylobby.com/about-us/holiday-messages?modal=one+nation+under+god

https://www.scarymommy.com/stop-shopping-hobby-lobby-now/

https://religionnews.com/2021/07/02/lets-celebrate-this-fourth-of-july-without-the-myth-of-white-christian-innocence/

https://www.relevantmagazine.com/faith/church/the-american-conservative-does-the-unthinkable-and-defends-the-unmarked-indigenous-graves-as-good-actually/

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/how-do-christian-patriots-love-their

Patreon Bonus: https://www.patreon.com/posts/53681162

Jesus and John Wayne Episode 3: Tender Warriors (The ’90s - ’00s) Jul 09, 2021

Calvin University history professor Kristin Kobes Du Mez joins Skye Jethani to discuss her bestselling book, “Jesus & John Wayne.” In this episode, they examine why white evangelicalism left behind some of its militant rhetoric after the Cold War ended in the early 1990s to embrace a kinder, gentler approach epitomized by the Promise Keepers movement, and how an aggressive vision of Christian masculinity returned after September 11, 2001. Plus, why an emphasis on racial reconciliation ultimately doomed Promise Keepers, and how other ministries learned to avoid any talk about race or justice.

Part 1 - Promise Keepers and Therapeutic Christianity Part 2 - Servant Leaders and Racial Reconciliation (15:36) Part 3 - Purity Culture and Fragile Masculinity (32:47) Part 4 - 9/11 and the Neo-Calvinists (48:38)

Episode 464: The Four Americas & Honest Prayer with Kyle Strobel Jul 07, 2021

Phil, Christian, and Skye do a deep dive into George Packer’s recent article in the Atlantic called “How America Fractured into 4 Parts.” Packer argues that Americans no longer agree on the country’s purpose, values, history, or meaning. Is he right? And how do Packer’s 4 Americas map onto the church? Then, Skye interviews Kyle Strobel about his new book “Where Prayer Becomes Real.” Obviously, the book is about prayer but it’s also about something even deeper and more foundational to our faith—honesty. It’s vital for our transformation but in short supply in many churches. Plus, scientists say the earth has a pulse. Did God design the earth to destroy life every 27.5 million years? That sets the Holy Post crew down a path into theology, the problem of evil, and why ferrets are bad pets.

Jesus and John Wayne Episode 2: Culture Warriors (The ‘70s - ‘80s) Jul 02, 2021

Calvin University history professor Kristin Kobes Du Mez joins Skye Jethani to continue discussing her bestselling book, "Jesus & John Wayne." In this episode, they discuss how evangelicalism fought to maintain traditional authority structures in the home and society, except when those authority structures didn't fit their own political interests which ultimately led to the rise of the Religious Right. Part 1 - Feminism and Family Values (2:18) Part 2 - Reconstructionism and the Religious Right (29:13) Jesus and John Wayne: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-John-Wayne-Evangelicals-Corrupted/dp/163149905X/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

Episode 463: Huckabee in the Hot Seat, Crisis at Cru, & Navigating Change with D. Michael Lindsay Jun 30, 2021

Tyler Huckabee, senior editor for Relevant, joins the Holy Post crew to defend his recent article about VeggieTales. Did Phil’s mom trick him into creating vegetable characters who are beyond God’s salvation? Then, over 1,000 Cru staff members say the parachurch ministry’s focus on diversity and racism has resulted in mission drift. Are they right or is it another example of paranoia over CRT? Then, Christian college president D. Michael Lindsay shares about his new book “Hinge Moments: Making the Most of Life’s Transitions,” and the unexpected changes in his own life. Have we misunderstood what it means to follow God’s will, and what can we learn from the best leaders about how to change directions? All that, plus Skye’s cramped cross-country road trip.

https://www.relevantmagazine.com/culture/never-forget-that-veggietales-werent-allowed-to-show-jesus-as-a-vegetable/

https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2021/june/cru-divided-over-emphasis-on-race.html

https://www.amazon.com/Hinge-Moments-Making-Lifes-Transitions/dp/0830841792

Jesus & John Wayne: Episode 1: Cold Warriors (The '50s & 60's) Jun 25, 2021

Calvin University history professor Kristin Kobes Du Mez joins Skye Jethani (co-host of The Holy Post) to discuss her bestselling book, “Jesus & John Wayne.” In this episode, they discuss how the Cold War shaped and defined American evangelicalism, how it differed from earlier 19th-century evangelicalism, and the lingering effects of the Cold War on the way many white evangelicals still think about culture, politics, and gender. Part 1 - Revivalism and the Military (2:23) Part 2 - Billy Graham and the Bomb (16:34) Part 3 - Civil Rights and Vietnam (30:48) Part 4 - From Cold War to Culture War (45:08)

Episode 462: Southern Baptists Resist the Pirates & Religious Liberty Goes to Court with Ed Stetzer & David French Jun 23, 2021

With Skye out of town, Phil invites “hardest working man in evangelicalism” Ed Stetzer to sit in and discuss what went down in Nashville last week when 17,000 Southern Baptists all got in one room. What does it mean for Southern Baptists? What does it mean for evangelicalism? And does the mainstream media know the difference between the two?

There were also two very interesting court rulings that came down last week with implications for religious liberty in America. So conservative columnist and civil liberties attorney David French stops by to talk through free-speech cake baking and foster care, and to answer the question - what do we do when defending our own rights pits us against the neighbors we are called to love?

Plus... a farmer settles a property line dispute with a neighbor in a, shall we say, odorous way.

https://www.christianpost.com/news/judge-rules-against-christian-baker-in-transgender-cake-case.html

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2021/06/17/supreme-court-catholic-foster-care-agency-may-turn-away-gay-couples/4155263001/

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/under-attack-from-fundamentalist

Episode 461: All Eyes on the SBC & Surviving Gun Violence with Taylor Schumann Jun 16, 2021

Violent crime, including mass shootings, are way up. On average over 300 people are shot everyday in America. In 2013, one of them was Taylor Schumann. She talks with Kaitlyn Schiess about her new book, “When Thoughts and Prayers Aren’t Enough,” and the side of gun violence most of us forget—the survivors. Also this week, the Southern Baptists are meeting in Nashville where, according to the mainstream media, the entire fate of evangelicalism will be decided. Are they right? Plus, Relevant Magazine wonders if Phil’s mom gave him sound advice about VeggieTales, or was she playing 3-dimensional chess to mess with her son’s theology. And, why a lobster diver will be the illustration in every sermon this Sunday.

https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/news/2021/06/11/humpback-whale-catches-michael-packard-lobster-driver-mouth-proviencetown-cape-cod/7653838002/ https://www.relevantmagazine.com/culture/never-forget-that-veggietales-werent-allowed-to-show-jesus-as-a-vegetable/ https://mobile.twitter.com/ryanburge/status/1403353463354974234 https://twitter.com/BethMooreLPM/status/1404426835199500296

https://www.amazon.com/When-Thoughts-Prayers-Arent-Enough/dp/0830831703

Episode 460: Consuming News Like a Christian with Jeffrey Bilbro Jun 09, 2021

We are bombarded by more news than ever before, and many of us can no longer differentiate what’s real from what’s fake, or what’s important from what’s trivial. Jeffrey Bilbro, author of “Reading the Times: A Literary and Theological Inquiry into the News,” offers wisdom about what it means to engage the media as a Christian, why the first step may be a deeper engagement with our local church, and the value of cultivating a “holy apathy” about current events. Also this week, Phil, Skye, and Christian respond to listener emails. Did Skye contradict one of his own sermons on a recent podcast? And what happened to the pipeline that used to carry kids in the church from birth all the way through college? Phil says it has completely blown up, but is that good or bad? And what does it mean for Christian parents? Plus, Jason is addicted to cinnamon rolls, and the magical musical armor of fireflies. Fireflies Story: https://www.iflscience.com/plants-and-animals/fireflies-wear-musical-armor-to-avoid-getting-eaten-by-bats/ Jeffrey Bilbro's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Reading-Times-Literary-Theological-Inquiry/dp/0830841857/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3ANNJ5BNEV8RW&dchild=1&keywords=reading+the+times+jeffrey+bilbro&qid=1623251775&sprefix=reading+the+times%2Caps%2C239&sr=8-3

Episode 459: Remembering Tulsa and Rethinking Prayer Jun 02, 2021

It’s been 100 years since the Tulsa Massacre—a dark moment in American history most Americans know nothing about. Which makes Phil, Skye, and Christian wonder, what else don’t we know? Wheaton College has removed the word “savages” from a plaque honoring martyred missionaries. Was the move a result of political correctness or just common decency? Then, Phil’s recent tweet about racism and anti-racism went viral, leading him to ask—when did evangelicals become more committed to preserving the world rather than changing it? Plus, the tables get turned when Skye gets interviewed by Kaitlyn about his newest book “What if Jesus was serious about prayer?” He explains why being a “radical” Christian isn’t what you think, and how prayer is way bigger than just talking to God. Plus, lonely Japanese eels are looking for attention on the internet.

https://www.businessinsider.com/video-call-eels-tokyo-aquarium-so-they-dont-forget-people-2020-5

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/when-our-forefathers-fail

https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2021/march/wheaton-college-missionary-plaque-jim-elliot-waorani.html

https://twitter.com/philvischer/status/1398297373563133955

https://www.amazon.com/What-Jesus-Serious-About-Prayer/dp/0802424163

Episode 458: The Gospel Demands Multiethnic Churches with Derwin Gray May 26, 2021

Our society is more diverse than ever before yet ninety percent of churches in the U.S. remain mono-cultural. Derwin Gray says this isn’t just a problem for the mission of the church, it’s also a betrayal of the gospel itself. He talks with Skye about why he planted a multiethnic church, why so many church leaders resist this calling, and how a fundamental misunderstanding of the gospel is to blame. Also this week, the military has admitted that UFOs are real but doesn’t say if they’re extraterrestrial. If there are aliens, what are the implications for Christian theology? Plus, a new study finds that in countries where Christianity enjoys political power more people abandon the faith. So why do evangelicals want to take back Washington? And Phil wonders if psychedelic cicadas prove the existence of God.

Book launch: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whatifjesuswasseriousaboutprayerlaunch/

UFOs: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ufo-military-intelligence-60-minutes-2021-05-16/

https://www.amazon.com/Liturgy-Politics-Spiritual-Formation-Neighbor/dp/0830848304/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+liturgy+of+politics&qid=1622046538&sr=8-1

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/cicadas-fall-prey-drug-producing-fungus-makes-their-butts-fall-180977776/

https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2021/may-web-only/christian-persecution-political-privilege-growth-decline.html?utm_medium=widgetsocia

l https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08NCWHC1Q/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qP7CFMIttGQ

Episode 457: Paul, Power, & Patriarchy with Beth Allison Barr May 19, 2021

Hold on to your bonnets, Holy Posters. Phil is joined by Kaitlyn Schiess and, while Skye’s away, guest host Mike Erre to talk about the scandals and misogyny plaguing evangelicalism. Phil wonders—are these bugs or features? And is it possible to love evangelicals but hate evangelicalism? Kaitlyn and Mike also explain what keeps them committed to Jesus and his church amid so much mess. Then, Skye talks to Baylor University history professor Beth Allison Barr about her new book, “The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth.” Barr explains why Paul’s writings about women are widely misread, how women have led throughout church history, and how the Reformation created the domesticated vision of womanhood still idealized by the church today. All of that, plus science can’t explain a sea worm’s perplexing number of posteriors.

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/marine-worm-sprouts-hundreds-butts-180977715/

https://twitter.com/albertmohler/status/1391499883153080324

https://twitter.com/ostrachan/status/1391831083826696193

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/love-the-evangelical-hate-the-evangelicalism/id1523542249?i=1000521265414

https://www.amazon.com/Making-Biblical-Womanhood-Subjugation-Became/dp/1587434709/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=Beth+Allison+barr&qid=1621441692&sr=8-2

https://www.patreon.com/posts/51444763

Episode 456: Why We’re Divided & Positive Pluralism with Bob Roberts May 12, 2021

It’s increasingly difficult to have conversations with other Christians. Our families and congregations can’t seem to agree even about basic facts, let alone the news or how we ought to respond to what’s happening. So, we avoid talking about anything that might be controversial—which is pretty much everything today. What happened? How did we become so divided? The Holy Post crew talks about CT president Tim Dalrymple’s recent article, “The Splintering of the Evangelical Soul,” and what is necessary to heal our divisions. Then, Bob Roberts—the most interesting evangelical in the world—joins Skye for a conversation about why it’s critical to have deep relationships with people of other faiths. Roberts says it’s transformed his own understanding of Christianity, and isolating our kids from the world will only guarantee they join it. Also this week, Joshes battle for supremacy in Nebraska.

https://thegirlwhoworefreedom.com/festivals/

https://news.yahoo.com/hundreds-people-named-josh-met-005228139.html

https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2021/april-web-only/splintering-of-evangelical-soul.html

Episode 455: Is Your Church Toxic or Tov? with Scot McKnight May 05, 2021

Rene Padilla died last week at 88, and you’re probably thinking “Who’s Rene Padilla?” Phil, Skye, and Christian discuss the huge influence he had on the global church and its mission, and why so many American Christians still feel a divide between saving souls and reforming society. Then, Skye talks to Scot McKnight about his new book, “A Church Called Tov,” which he co-wrote with his daughter Laura Barringer in the aftermath of the Willow Creek controversy and Bill Hybles’ abuse. McKnight defines what makes a church culture toxic, and why so many pastors are on the narcissism disorder spectrum. It’s an eye-opening conversation. Also this week—a Kickstarter campaign for a new Christian dating service, a church in an unexpected location launches “Drag Queen Sunday,” and the terrifying story of a man, a portable toilet, and a tree.

https://thegirlwhoworefreedom.com/festivals/

https://apnews.com/article/pennsylvania-gettysburg-69f03d57db0cb1e4b912b59ddce396dd

https://www.relevantmagazine.com/culture/tech-gaming/dominion-dating-is-the-christian-dating-site-for-men-who-think-a-womans-place-is-at-home-1/

https://religionnews.com/2021/04/15/first-drag-queen-certified-as-a-candidate-for-united-methodist-ministry-speaking-in-a-new-way-to-new-people/

https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2021/april/rene-padilla-died-integral-mission-latin-american-theology.html

https://lausanne.org/content/covenant/lausanne-covenant

https://www.amazon.com/Christian-Mission-Modern-World-Classics/dp/0830834117

Episode 454: Dangers, Doubts, & Deconstruction with A.J. Swoboda Apr 28, 2021

In a recent editorial, David French asked whether the primary threat to the church comes from within or without? Phil, Skye, and Kaitlyn discuss the question and whether the church is primarily for or against the world. Plus, why are so many Christian ministries focused on protecting kids? Is it related to our fixation on the danger of hell? Then, Skye talks with A.J. Swoboda about his new book “After Doubt: How to Question Your Faith without Losing it.” He says a lot of people aren’t really deconstructing Christianity, but a false form of the faith that should be abandoned. And Swoboda explains the danger of a culture in which everything new is seen as superior. Also this week—the Colorado baker refuses to make a transgender cake, coyote pups, and screaming foxes.

https://www.denverpost.com/2021/03/23/colorado-baker-lawsuit-gender-transition-birthday-cake/

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/the-question-that-dictates-how-christians

https://dandarling.substack.com/p/in-here-out-there-on-assessing-spiritual

https://www.amazon.com/People-Truth-Worshipping-Community-Modern/dp/1579105602

https://www.amazon.com/After-Doubt-Question-without-Losing/dp/1587434512

https://www.patreon.com/posts/50587974

Episode 453: Table-Flipping Jesus & Improvising Faith with Dr. Timothy Gombis Apr 21, 2021

There’s a popular cliche among evangelicals—“The Bible says it. I believe it. That settles it.” But is it really that simple? Not according to New Testament scholar, Dr. Timothy Gombis. Because we’re not ancient Near Eastern people living in a desert, he says it’s not possible to literally apply the Bible. Instead, any faithful Christian needs to learn how to improvise. Dr. Gombis talks with Skye about faithful improvisation, what cross-shaped cultural engagement looks like, and how idolatry destroys bodies. Also this week, Phil’s tweet about angry Christians using “table-flipping Jesus” to justify their bad behavior causes an uproar. Does the story mean it’s sometimes ok to be nasty and insult our enemies? Plus, Pat Robertson is “woke” on police violence, and a French pastry in a tree terrorizes Poland.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-56757956

https://www.relevantmagazine.com/culture/tv/famed-broken-clock-pat-robertson-says-police-need-to-open-their-eyes-to-the-reality-of-police-brutality/

https://mirrorofjustice.blogs.com/mirrorofjustice/2021/04/bearing-witness-to-the-pain.html

https://twitter.com/philvischer/status/1381709523849773064

https://podcast.thedispatch.com/p/jesus-and-evangelical-politics/comments

https://www.amazon.com/Mark-Story-God-Bible-Commentary/dp/0310327156

Episode 452: The Messy Call to Christian Unity with Francis Chan Apr 14, 2021

Francis Chan says it’s time for Christians to take Jesus’ command about unity seriously. His new book, “Until Unity,” outlines the biblical call to be one, and why we struggle to achieve it. Skye talks with Chan about what Christian unity looks like practically, the role of racism in keeping us apart, how a focus on church growth distracted Chan from seeking unity, and how to know when disunity is the only option. Also this week, a new study finds less than 50% of Americans are now members of a church for the first time in a century. Should secularists be rejoicing? Not necessarily, as some experts fear religious zeal is now shifting into politics. Plus, smuggling baby tortoises, Phil’s worried about a 3,000-year-old knife-wielding spider god, and a fecal fight between Godzilla and King Kong.

https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/644356/godzilla-king-kong-whose-poops-would-be-bigger

https://www.cnn.com/2021/03/30/world/galapagos-airport-tortoises-trnd/index.html

https://www.insider.com/japan-early-cherry-blossom-bloom-climate-change-2021-4

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/mural-knife-wielding-spider-god-found-peru-180977360/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/religion/2021/03/29/church-membership-fallen-below-majority/

Episode 451: The Apocalypse Now with Dr. John Walton Apr 07, 2021

Our favorite Old Testament scholar is back to talk about the Book of Daniel. Dr. John Walton says the apocalyptic passages of Daniel—which deeply influenced those End Times charts popular among evangelicals—aren’t really predictive of the future in the way we think. And the story of Daniel isn’t necessarily a manual for how Christians ought to live in a post-Christian society. Prepare to have your mind blown as you learn what apocalyptic visions in the Bible are really about. Also this week—how should Christians think about social welfare programs, slavery reparations, and guaranteed minimum income? Esau McCaulley brilliantly reframes the Easter story in light of the Black church’s experience. Plus, the excellence and etymology of Peeps.

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/02/opinion/easter-celebration.html

https://www.chicagotribune.com/nation-world/ct-aud-nw-jesuits-racial-reconciliation-20210316-elgsyj3mlbbbvgkaoedktzlavi-story.html

https://www.amazon.com/Sum-Us-Everyone-Prosper-Together/dp/0525509569

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/evanston-illinois-becomes-first-u-s-city-pay-reparations-blacks-n1261791

https://www.npr.org/2021/03/04/973653719/california-program-giving-500-no-strings-attached-stipends-pays-off-study-finds

https://www.npr.org/2021/04/01/983405521/new-guaranteed-income-for-families-with-children-is-stunning-poverty-expert-says

Episode 450: The Evangelical Industrial Complex with Love Thy Neighborhood Mar 31, 2021

Have you wondered why so many megachurch leaders have been embroiled in scandals, or why there are so many Christian celebrities today? It’s not accidental. It’s the predictable outcome of the systems behind much of popular consumer Christianity. In this special episode co-produced with the Love Thy Neighborhood podcast, Jesse Eubanks joins Skye to explore the way business interests and economics have replaced Christian values to drive many parts of American evangelicalism. Featuring multiple interviews, investigative reporting, and commentary, this episode will pull back the curtain on the evangelical industrial complex.

Episode 449: The Atlanta Shootings & Courageous Leadership with Richard Stearns Mar 24, 2021

Is evangelical purity culture to blame for the murder of eight people at spas in Atlanta? Or is anti-Asian racism the cause? What about America’s gun culture or mental illness? Phil, Skye, and Christian discuss the many facets of the tragedy and get vulnerable about their own history with evangelicalism’s obsession with sex. Then, Skye talks with Richard Stearns, president emeritus of World Vision, about his new book on leadership. Stearns recalls his own battle with purity culture when he tried to convince evangelicals to fight the AIDS epidemic 20 years ago, and he discusses the lack of courageous leadership in many parts of the church today. Also this week—a News of the Butter update.

https://religionnews.com/2021/03/17/atlanta-massage-parlor-murder-suspect-big-into-religion/

https://religiondispatches.org/dont-discount-evangelicalism-as-a-factor-in-racist-murder-of-asian-spa-workers-in-georgia/

https://www.relevantmagazine.com/current/nation/wrestling-with-misogyny-racism-and-toxic-purity-culture-in-the-wake-of-the-atlanta-shootings/

Podcast Phil references:

https://bethebridge.com/episode-12-transition-in-proximity-to-whiteness-with-dante-stewart/

Episode 448: Beth Moore's Exit & the Problem of "Impoverished Imaginations" with Karen Swallow Prior Mar 17, 2021

Recently author/professor Karen Swallow Prior was asked what she considered the biggest problem facing the church today, and answered, "an impoverished imagination." So Phil sat down with Karen to talk through what she means by that, and her belief that a lack of imagination-forming reading results in, among other things, our propensity to believe conspiracy theories and our extreme discomfort with uncertainty. Karen also convinces Phil he really, really needs to read Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. PLUS, Kaitlyn Schiess joins Skye and Phil to talk through Beth Moore's departure from the SBC, and whether the death of evangelist Luis Palau represents the end of the era of large-scale evangelism. Oh... and if you're using the story of Jesus flipping tables to justify bad behavior on social media, you're probably misusing that story. This week on the podcast!

https://religionnews.com/2021/03/09/bible-teacher-beth-moore-ends-partnership-with-lifeway-i-am-no-longer-a-southern-baptist/

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/cruelty-is-apostasy

https://www.relevantmagazine.com/faith/jesus-flipping-tables-isnt-excuse-your-online-rants/

Episode 447: The Danger of Useful Christianity with Russell Moore Mar 10, 2021

What is the greatest threat facing Christianity in the U.S. today? Socialism? Cancel culture? Wokeness? Not according to Dr. Russell Moore. He says it’s “means-to-an-end-Christianity” which seeks to use Christ to achieve some other goal. This, he argues, is what’s fueling everything from Christian nationalism to the cover up of sexual abuse in churches and ministries. Don’t miss his wide-ranging conversation with Skye. Also this week, the podcast crew discusses the “Seven Mountain Mandate” behind so many of the cultural and political wars Christians are fighting today, and why it’s more about seizing power than serving Christ. How do we convince evangelicals to abandon conspiracy theories and get the Covid vaccine? Plus, Phil’s tired of hard butter.

Patreon Bonus: https://www.patreon.com/posts/48587588

https://www.npr.org/2021/02/24/971018428/baffled-canadians-spread-reports-of-hard-butter

https://www.kentuckytoday.com/stories/greear-decries-division-repudiates-pharisaical-spirit-in-sbc-ec-address,30736

https://www.washingtonpost.com/religion/2021/02/24/evangelicals-covid-vaccine-russell-moore-walter-kim/

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/how-a-rising-religious-movement-rationalizes

https://religionnews.com/2021/02/25/the-creeping-radicalization-of-white-evangelicals/

Episode 446: “Too Black”... Hip Hop Superstar Lecrae on His Relationship With White Evangelicalism Mar 03, 2021

Filling his songs with faith and the theology of respected white leaders like John Piper and Tim Keller, Lecrae became a darling of white evangelicalism. When he spoke out against racial injustice in 2017, all that began to change. Grammy-winning singer/songwriter, record producer and Christian activist Lecrae sits down with Phil to talk about being called “too Black,” Fallkirk Center co-founder Charlie Kirk’s recent attempt to “cancel” him, and, in the midst of it all, why he still has hope for the church.

Plus - was that really a golden statue at CPAC?? Seriously??

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/donald-trump-gold-statue-cpac_n_6038eac7c5b60f03d9b3dec5

Episode 445: You Might Be a Christian Nationalist If... & Transgender Identities with Preston Sprinkle Feb 24, 2021

How do you know if you’re a Christian nationalist? Kaitlyn Schiess is back with Phil and Skye to unpack Samuel Perry’s top 10 indicators of Christian nationalism and they add a few of their own. They also discuss why there’s so much overlap between Christian nationalism and Christian fundamentalism. Plus, Phil explains how the evolution of contemporary Christian music reveals what’s happened to the American church. Then, Skye talks with Preston Sprinkle about his new book “Embodied: Transgender Identities, the Church, and What the Bible Has to Say.” They discuss what extremists on the Right and Left get wrong about the transgender conversation, and what a pastoral, not just a theological, response looks like. Also this week, a more accurate covid test is being used in China—but there’s a downside.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/anal-swab-china-coronavirus/2021/01/27/cc284f56-6054-11eb-a177-7765f29a9524_story.html

https://twitter.com/socofthesacred/status/1358834106356948996

Episode 444: The Ravi Zacharias Revelations & Leaving the SBC with Charlie Dates Feb 17, 2021

Here we go again. The evangelical world is shocked by another leadership scandal. This time it’s the report that famed apologist Ravi Zacharias sexually abused women for years before his death in 2020. Kaitlyn Schiess joins Phil and Skye to discuss the story, and why so many ministries fail to investigate their famous leaders or take abuse allegations seriously. Then, Skye talks with Charlie Dates, senior pastor of Progressive Baptist Church in Chicago, about his decision to leave the Southern Baptist Convention in December. Believing the SBC’s desire to overcome its racist past was genuine, Dates had to convince his historically black church to align with the SBC in the first place. He explains why he was wrong and what it means for the future of evangelicalism in America.

This week's Bonus segment: https://www.patreon.com/posts/47673135

Episode 443: False Prophets, Judgment, & Gen Z with Joshua Packard Feb 10, 2021

Before the 2020 election, many self-identified “prophets” within the charismatic movement decalred God had revealed to them that Donald Trump would win. Millions of followers believed them. How are they now reconciling their divine revelations with reality? The Holy Post crew looks at another failed prophecy in the 1840s that changed American Christianity. Also this week, Phil deputizes Mike Erre as his pastor to determine whether his sarcastic response to a Twitter critic violated Jesus’ command against judging others. And sociologist Joshua Packard talks with Skye about a comprehensive new study on the faith of Generation Z, and why few churches are prepared to engage them. Plus, forced monkey labor.

https://www.cnn.com/2021/01/26/business/target-drops-chaokoh-coconut-milk-trnd/index.html

https://thewayofimprovement.com/2021/01/15/charismatic-prophets-at-war/

https://www.patreon.com/posts/47376089

Episode 442: Christian Nationalism & the Good Life with Derwin Gray Feb 03, 2021

Evangelicals used to believe the way to transform America was through revivalism. Increasingly, they now believe it’s through revolution. Why are so many buying into Christian nationalism? What is it? And what can we do about those caught in this heretical gospel of political domination? Phil, Skye, and Christian discuss the issue. Also this week, Dr. Derwin Gray—former NFL player and lead pastor of a multiethnic church in North Carolina—joins Skye to talk about his new book on the Beatitudes, “The Good Life,” and why Jesus was the happiest person ever. Gray also unpacks why so many pastors are afraid to talk about race and politics. Plus—nano chameleons and scientists teach vegetables to send emails.

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/28/opinion/christian-nationalists-capitol-attack.html

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/discerning-the-difference-between

Episode 441: Biden’s Inauguration & the Future of the Republican Party with Peter Wehner Jan 27, 2021

Was Donald Trump good or bad for the Republican Party? The GOP lost the presidency and the Senate, but in 2020 the party gain seats in the House and Trump also got more votes than any Republican candidate ever! Conservative columnist and veteran of three Republican administrations, Peter Wehner, joins Skye to talk about the future of the party after Trump, and why evangelicals are the group most easily seduced by political power. Also this week, Kaitlyn Schiess joins Phil and Skye to discuss Biden’s inauguration, and to answer listener questions like—Why do so many conservative Christians oppose environmentalism? Why is there a split between older and younger Christians regarding Christian nationalism? And, why do the same leaders who say “We should be courageous enough to die for our faith” exhibit so much fear over cultural and political change?

PATREON BONUS INTERVIEW

Kaitlyn’s Twitter Thread

Episode 440: Southern Shame Culture & How to Fight Racism w/Jemar Tisby Jan 20, 2021

Jemar Tisby (The Color of Compromise) rejoins Phil to discuss his new book, How to Fight Racism. Actual, real steps to be part of the solution, not part of the problem! Plus David French posits that the American church has been infected with something called “Southern shame culture,” which sends Phil on a journey into the “Lost Cause” narrative, confederate monuments, revisionist history and the overwhelming desire to “defend our tribe” and punch back at enemies, real and imagined. It’s a wild, historical journey from the Civil War to Franklin Graham! (And if you don’t like it, it’s David French’s fault.)

Bonus for Patreon Subscribers: Phil asks Jemar some tough questions: What’s his take on the CRT controversy in the Southern Baptist Convention? And what about abortion? Since white Christians are more likely to vote for pro-life candidates than Black Christians, does that mean Black Christians don’t care about abortion? It’s a fascinating conversation available to everyone who supports the podcast at any level!

https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2021/january-web-only/martin-luther-king-jr-racism-racial-justice-policy-change.html

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/where-does-the-south-end-and-christianity

Episode 439: Was the Capitol Attack a Christian Insurrection? Jan 13, 2021

Everyone is trying to make sense of the attack on the Capitol last week by a violent pro-Trump mob displaying Christian symbols—including us! Kaitlyn Schiess joins Phil, Skye, and Christian to talk through the madness. Skye explains why this attack is fundamentally different from political violence in America’s past. Phil worries about the loss of objective truth and why responses on Facebook are so much worse than Twitter. The discuss why so many Christians and Christian leaders still support Donald Trump, and the crew unpacks articles from three evangelicals—Ed Stetzer, Michael Gerson, and David French—who say white evangelicalism must face a reckoning. But will it?

https://www.holypost.com/post/america-has-seen-political-violence-before-why-the-maga-attack-is-different-more-dangerous

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/trumps-evangelicals-were-complicit-in-the-desecration-of-our-democracy/2021/01/07/69a51402-5110-11eb-83e3-322644d82356_story.html

https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2021/01/10/after-donald-trump-evangelical-christians-face-reckoning-column/6601393002/

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/only-the-church-can-truly-defeat

Episode 438: The Year that Unveiled Evangelicalism with John Fea Jan 06, 2021

We’re starting the new year with a look back. John Fea, history professor from Messiah College, author of “Believe Me: The Evangelical Road to Donald Trump,” and the official historian of the Holy Post podcast, says 2020 was a year that “unveiled” the truth about American evangelicalism. He also explores how different court evangelicals have responded to Trump’s loss, and what may happen next. Fea also looks at Phil’s recent video about the history of evangelicalism, and how the Second Great Awakening shaped so much of what we’re seeing today. Also this week—Skye goes skiing and Phil replaces Plinky Pete.

Episode 437: Ham on Phil - A Brief History of Young Earth Creationism Dec 30, 2020

Recently, Young Earth Creation (YEC) champion Ken Ham took exception to Phil's statement that Ham "rejects mainstream science." In the flurry of social media activity that followed, a number of YEC experts took Phil to task, claiming he was wrong on several facts. Phil dug deeper and realized he WAS in fact wrong on a couple of things, but right on a bunch more. So this week Phil lays out what he got wrong and what he got right as we take a deep dive into the fascinating history of the movement called "Creation Science," or Ken Ham-style "Young Earth Creationism."

Buckle up! It's a fun one!

Episode 436: The Jericho March, SBC vs. CRT (Cont.), & Evangelical Elites Dec 23, 2020

Trump supporters who believe the election was stolen, including Eric Metaxas and the My Pillow Guy, marched on Washington D.C. to blow their horns and sell their merch. Notable was the absence of many of the President’s evangelical allies. Why didn’t they show? Influential black pastors are leaving the Southern Baptist Convention over their blanket opposition to Critical Race Theory. Given the SBC’s racist heritage, have they chosen the wrong battle? Sociologist Ryan Burge reports on the widening gap between evangelical elites and those in the pews. It’s becoming clear that the real leaders of evangelicalism aren’t found in churches, seminaries, or denominations, but in conservative media. Also this week—Vietnamese honey bees outsmart murder hornets with chicken poop.

Episode 435: Enhanced Humans & the New Eugenics with Calum MacKellar Dec 16, 2020

Advances in medical technology have produced a Covid-19 vaccine in record time, but some of these advances have a dark side. Gene editing technology may end some diseases, but should we interfere with the conception and birth of those who carry certain genes? And what about creating enhanced humans? Bioethicist Calum MacKellar joins Skye for an important, and somewhat disturbing conversation about the new era of eugenics we are entering. Also this week, the Holy Post crew discusses a new book about Millennials and burnout. What makes Millennials different from the Greatest Generation that endured the Great Depression and WWII? Are they struggling because of a breakdown in family and faith, or because of U.S. economic and political failures? Plus, is there still a place for public shaming? And, hand sanitizer + dog = chaos.

Episode 434: Critical Theory & the Christian with David Fitch Dec 09, 2020

Conservatives have recently found a new boogeyman—Critical Theory. Even Mr. Trump has issued an executive order declaring Critical Theory to be “anti-American,” and last week the presidents of six Southern Baptist seminaries said critical theory is incompatible with Christianity. Their statement, however, never defined what Critical Theory is nor what makes it unchristian. Theologian David Fitch is back to talk about the controversy and offers a more thoughtful way to assess which aspects of Critical Theory are useful, and not so useful, for Christians. Kaitlyn Schiess is also back with Phil and Skye to talk about the SBC’s response, and why white evangelicals see some evils as personal (racism) and others as systemic (abortion)? Are there similar inconsistencies on the political left as well? Also this week: Portland pastor Rick McKinley says nationalism with Jesus’ face is the religion of white Christians. That’s not too risky to say in Portland, but what if you’re a pastor in Dallas? Plus, can we please stop sharing “unspoken” prayer requests?

https://religionnews.com/2020/12/01/southern-baptist-seminary-presidents-nix-critical-race-theory/

https://www.oregonlive.com/opinion/2020/12/the-new-religion-of-white-christians-steve-duin-column.html

Episode 433: Ending the War on Drugs with Bonnie Kristian Dec 02, 2020

In November, seven states (both red and blue) had initiatives on their ballots to either decriminalize or legalize some drugs including marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and LSD. Every measure passed. As the U.S. continues to rapidly abandon its war on drugs, how should Christians respond? And if these addictive and dangerous substances are legalized, what happens next? Bonnie Kristian is back to talk about her recent op-ed arguing for an end to the drug war from an evangelical perspective. Also this week, another celebrity pastor has been removed from ministry causing Katelyn Beaty to ask, do we have a hot pastor problem? The crew debate why we want our church leaders to be attractive performers rather than spiritual leaders. A new study finds the U.S. is becoming more secular AND more religious at the same time. How do we bridge the divide? Plus, the Chinese pay $2 million for a Belgian pigeon.

https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2020/november-web-only/christians-believe-we-end-drug-war-to-win-it.html

Episode 432: The Idol of Individualism with E. Randolph Richards Nov 25, 2020

The cultures which produced the Bible were collectivist, but most modern Western Christians are immersed in individualism. Biblical scholar and missionary, E. Randolph Richards says this causes many of us to misinterpret critical aspects of the Bible, or miss them altogether. He talks with Skye about his latest book, “Misreading Scripture with Individualist Eyes.” Also this week—has a decline in religious authority caused a decline in empathy in America? And how did we go from expecting institutions to form us, to now expecting them to affirm us? Jerry Falwell Jr. is suing Liberty University for damaging his reputation. Plus, Christian’s surgery, itchy rashes, and swearing parrots.

https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/swearing-parrots-moved-park-scli-gbr-intl/index.html

https://religionnews.com/2020/10/06/new-book-explains-how-the-decline-of-religious-authority-led-to-the-end-of-empathy/

https://www.holypost.com/post/10-of-the-most-memorable-celebrity-interviews

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/we-used-to-ask-institutions-to-form-us-now-they-must-affirm-us/

Episode 431: Can Social Media be Redeemed? with Daniel Darling Nov 18, 2020

The CEOs of Facebook and Twitter testified before Congress this week about the toxic spread of misinformation on their platforms and the harm it causes to society. Sadly, many Christians are complicit in this trend. Daniel Darling is back to talk about how Christians must change the way we engage social media if there’s any hope of redeeming it. Also this week, Trump’s favorite television preachers have made a spectacle of praying for a miraculous election victory, but when does Christian prayer deteriorate into pagan magic? The crew discusses a new study about megachurches, why they’re growing even larger, how fewer are identifying as “evangelical,” and whether the pandemic will cause anyone to rethink the model. Also, Canada experiments with giving money to homeless people, and R.I.P. Sausage King of Russia.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/new-leaf-project-results-1.5752714

http://hirr.hartsem.edu/megachurch/megachurches.html https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2020/september-web-only/single-women-manhood-church-growth-gender-ratios-church.html

Episode 430: The Politically Homogenous Church with Ryan Burge Nov 11, 2020

The exit poll data from the election is in, and it looks like white evangelicals are as politically conservative and Republican as ever. Professor of political science from Eastern Illinois University, Ryan Burge, joins the Holy Post crew to discuss the findings. He says Democrats should give up on white evangelical voters who are now more Republican than Christian. Burge also looks at the formative power of cable news, why pastors are afraid to address the idolatry of politics in their pews, and why the data says the future of evangelicalism will be dramatically different. Also this week, Drew Dyck is back with his latest book selections to survive the pandemic. Plus, Tesla owners beware—you could accidentally butt dial a very expensive upgrade for your car.

https://www.cnbc.com/2020/10/07/tesla-app-butt-dial-purchases-still-possible-refunds-hard-to-get.html https://religioninpublic.blog/2019/02/05/is-white-born-again-christian-just-a-synonym-for-republican/ https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/06/opinion/evangelicals-republicans.html

Episode 429: Post-Election Night Reactions & Abortion Activism with David French Nov 04, 2020

It’s 2020, did anyone really expect the election to be easy? The morning after the vote, a sleep-deprived Holy Post crew discusses what the incomplete results mean for the country and the church. The country hasn’t repudiated Trumpism, but they don’t seem to be embracing progressivism either. Did evangelicals still “hold their nose” and vote for Trump, or do exit polls show they’re deeply inhaling? An article from Christianity Today’s president, Tim Dalrymple, helps explain the evangelical divide over politics. And can the church learn to be prophetic again rather than partisan? Also this week, Phil talks with David French about reactions to the Holy Post video on abortion, and what the data shows will actually reduce the abortion rate in America.

https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2020/november-web-only/trump-election-politics-church-kingdom.html

Episode 428: How Should Christians Vote? Oct 28, 2020

With less than a week until the election, Phil and Skye are joined by Kaitlyn Schiess to discuss what should, and should not, influence how Christians vote. First, they talk about reactions to Skye’s video (not Phil’s, he had nothing to do with it!) about abortion, and the different ways the issue is viewed by evangelicals. They also unpack recent articles about the election from three Christian leaders—John Piper, Al Mohler, and Joel Hunter. It is just a coincidence that the two retired pastors oppose Trump? And why does Mohler hold Black Christians to a different standard when voting? Phil explains why two traditionally Republican counties should make conservatives rethink their support for Trump. And why is every election framed as an existential threat to America? Finally, Skye talks with Scott Arbeiter, president of World Relief, about the historically low number of refugees resettled in the U.S., the current administration’s broken promise to help persecuted Christians, and why evangelical leaders and laity are so far apart on the issue of immigration.

Lifeway Research | “2016 Election Exposes Evangelical Divides”: https://lifewayresearch.com/2016/10/14/2016-election-exposes-evangelical-divide/ Desiring God | “Policies, Persons, and Paths to Ruin: Pondering the Implications of the 2020 Election”: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/policies-persons-and-paths-to-ruin?fbclid=IwAR05aL2TzkuWYvV4SfMPb8bXl3rQdud6e1NYGzOmHsXr5ZFQxhDYRViaM1Y Albert Mohler | “Christians, Conscience, and the Looming 2020 Election”: https://albertmohler.com/2020/10/26/christians-conscience-and-the-looming-2020-election Michael Wear Responds to Al Mohler | Twitter Thread: https://twitter.com/MichaelRWear/status/1320849749709332480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1320849749709332480%7Ctwgr%5Eshare_3&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fthewayofimprovement.com%2F2020%2F10%2F27%2Fsouthern-baptist-seminary-professor-al-mohler-makes-it-official-he-voted-fo%2F Christian Post - Wayne Grudem | “A respectful response to my friend John Piper about voting for Trump”: https://www.christianpost.com/voices/a-response-to-my-friend-john-piper-about-voting-for-trump.html

Episode 427: Can 1968 Explain 2020? with Os Guinness Oct 21, 2020

Author and cultural commentator, Os Guinness, says, “If people don’t understand the 60’s, they can’t understand today.” Skye talks with Os about the re-release of his classic book, “The Dust of Death” and how the 60’s counterculture planted the seeds for the cultural upheaval and division we’re seeing in 2020. Also this week, can the National Association of Evangelicals restore the reputation of evangelicalism in America? The Gospel Coalition offers 6 wise suggestions for political engagement, and the crew discusses how church leaders can lead their congregations through potentially divisive topics. Plus, News of the Butt…in space!

“NASA Just Sent a New $23 Million Space Toilet to the International Space Station”: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/nasa-just-sent-new-23-million-space-toilet-international-space-station-180976037/

“For the Health of the Nation” Statement: https://www.forthehealth.net“

6 Ways Christians Can Be Wiser in Public Engagement”: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/6-ways-christians-wiser-political-engagement/

Episode 426: Power, Freedom, and Identity with N.T. Wright Oct 14, 2020

The most esteemed New Testament scholar alive today is back on the show! N.T. Wright discusses his new book about John’s gospel, “Broken Signposts.” Wright talks to Skye about two competing visions of power and freedom at work in the world today, and how the church sometimes fails to follow the right one. He also unpacks how “identity” has become the dominant framework in our culture, how it’s a reaction to colonialism, and the danger it poses to Christian unity. Also this week—Is America having a moral convulsion? David Brooks things so. The gang discusses his new article about what happens when we lose trust in America’s institutions and in one another, and why the church could be the answer. Plus, Phil gets invited to a cookout, Christian wins another award, and Skye’s dog vomits on his sofa.

Should Christians vote for Trump? Eric Metaxas vs David French: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CuYk4-NdCz0"America Is Having a Moral Convulsion": https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/10/collapsing-levels-trust-are-devastating-america/616581/

Episode 425: Reading the Bible While Black with Esau McCaulley Oct 07, 2020

Does the Bible have anything to say about the police? What about racial diversity? Are Christians called to submit to the government or reform it? Professor and Anglican priest, Esau McCaulley, talks about his new book, “Reading While Black,” and the African-American tradition of Scripture interpretation that avoids the either/or (conservative vs. liberal) thinking typical in the white church. Also this week, Phil shares about his experience being interviewed by Kirk Cameron and goes on a rant about “false binaries.” Christian is now an “award-winning” filmmaker. What should a useful voter guide for Christians include? And clowns object to the first presidential debate being called a “circus.”

"How Do Christians Fit Into the Two-Party System? They Don’t.”: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/09/29/opinion/sunday/christians-politics-belief.html

Episode 424: Evil Algorithms & Faith-Based Movies with Luke Barnett Sep 30, 2020

The Holy Post crew discusses the new Netflix documentary, “The Social Dilemma,” about the way social media is contributing to the breakdown of society and how Facebook’s algorithms make reasonable people into extremists. Also this week, Skye and Josh Lindsay—his co-host on The Movie Proposal podcast—interview actor and screenwriter, Luke Barnett, about his new comedy “Faith Based.” Barnett explains how his long experience in the church informed the project, why Christian movies follow such a predictable formula, and how tribal identity rather than quality is what makes movies successful today. Plus, new research from Barna says fewer Christians think racism is a significant problem than a year ago. And Mexico passes a law preventing kids from buying junk food.

"‘We Had To Take Action’: States In Mexico Move to Ban Junk Food Sales To Minors”: https://www.npr.org/2020/09/14/912029399/we-had-to-take-action-states-in-mexico-move-to-ban-junk-food-sales-to-minors"White Christians Have Become Even Less Motivated to Address Racial Injustice”: https://www.barna.com/research/american-christians-race-problem/

Episode 423: Is America’s Gun Culture a Blessing or Curse? with David French Sep 23, 2020

The United States now has more guns than people, and while overall violent crime is down the number of mass shootings is set to break a record in 2020 and suicides from guns is rising. How should Christians think about America’s gun culture? David French is back to offer a legal and moral argument for why most attempts at gun control are misguided. He says more legal gun ownership protects freedom, and Skye wonders if a public square filled with guns limits it. And if we can’t reduce the number of guns, what’s the best way to limit gun crime and mass shootings?

Also this week, the Holy Post crew is joined by Kaitlyn Schiess to discuss the legacy of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and what her death means for the presidential election and the future of the Supreme Court. Are the Republicans being hypocrites for filling Ginsburg’s seat weeks before the election when they refused to let Obama nominate a justice 8 months before the election in 2016? And what should we think of the Democrat’s threat to pack the court? Skye warns about dismantling political norms, Kaitlyn says Christians viewing every election as an existential threat is a failure of discipleship, and Phil plays the devil’s advocate by throwing down the abortion card.

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/yes-america-could-split-apart

Episode 422: The Church’s Complicity in Racism with Jemar Tisby Sep 16, 2020

At numerous points throughout American history, Christians had a choice to confront the evils of racism or quietly ignore them. In a challenging conversation Jemar Tisby, author of “The Color of Compromise” and host of the “Pass the Mic” podcast, explores key moments from the arrival of the first African slaves in 1619 to the rise of the Religious Right in the 1970s when the white church in America chose silence or complicity rather than faithfulness. He also explains how Christian arguments to justify slavery are still being used by some today in the wake of police violence and Black Lives Matters. Also this week, Skye and Phil discuss why neighborhoods are becoming more segregated than ever. Tim Keller’s definition of “righteous” challenges our American and economic belief in self-interest. IBM is using A.I. to create fake crowds for televised sports during the pandemic. Plus, Amsterdam has an innovative solution for a scourge of “wild peeing.”

“The Color of Compromise: The Truth about the American Church’s Complicity in Racism” by Jemar Tisby: https://www.amazon.com/Color-Compromise-American-Churchs-Complicity-ebook/dp/B07BB6R827

“IBM’s Watson to help tennis fans argue with each other:” https://www.cnn.com/2020/09/01/tech/ibm-artificial-intelligence-us-open/index.html

“These planter-like urinals are Amsterdam’s answer to the problem of ‘wild peeing’”: https://www.cnn.com/style/article/amsterdam-sustainable-urinal-scli-intl/index.html

Episode 421: Culture Warriors, Punching Protesters, & the Sacred Overlap with J.R. Briggs Sep 09, 2020

Why does everything feel like it’s “us vs. them” these days? Pastor and author J.R. Briggs says it’s because we’ve been taught to see everything as either/or, while Jesus modeled how to live in the tension of both/and. Briggs calls the space between opposing ideas the “sacred overlap.” He talks to Skye about the role of mystery and paradox in Christian theology, and how it applies to contemporary issues. Also this week, why using war rhetoric to describe our Christian mission is very unchristian. Clean comedian, Jim Gaffigan, unloads on Trump in a profanity-filled Twitter rant. Did Eric Metaxas punch someone and then run through Washington D.C. backwards? Plus—beetles, frogs, and butts.

“The Sacred Overlap: Learning to Live Faithfully in the Space Between,” by J.R. Briggs: https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Overlap-Learning-Faithfully-Resources/dp/031010212X

“If You’re Fighting the Culture War, You’re Losing” by Cap Stewart: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/if-youre-fighting-the-culture-war-youre-losing/

“Jim Gaffigan calls Trump ‘liar and a criminal,’ slams ‘Trumpers’ in series of tweets”: https://variety.com/2020/politics/news/jim-gaffigan-trump-twitter-rant-1234752423/

“Eric Metaxas confirms he punched protester, says protester was to blame”: https://religionnews.com/2020/09/01/eric-metaxas-protester-menaced-punch-video-trump-rnc/

“These Water Beetles Make Their Escape Out of Frog’s Butt After Being Swallowed”: https://www.sciencealert.com/these-water-beetles-can-houdini-their-way-out-of-a-frog-butt-after-being-swallowed

Episode 420: Four False Political Gospels with Kaitlyn Schiess Sep 02, 2020

We are deep into campaign season with Christians on all sides becoming increasingly anxious and vocal. Phil talks with Kaitlyn Schiess, author of “The Liturgy of Politics,” about the false narratives shaping the hearts and politics of many Christians. She identifies these “false gospels” as prosperity, patriotism, security, and supremacy—and they’re far more subtle and powerful than you might think, and they affect both sides of the partisan divide. Also this week, Jerry Falwell Jr. responds to his expulsion from Liberty U. by quoting MLK’s “Free at last...” speech. And Mike Pence quotes the Bible in his RNC speech but replaces “Jesus” with “Old Glory.” Is it the clearest example of Christian Nationalism yet?

“What Jerry Falwell Jr. Taught Me at Liberty University” by Kaitlyn Schiess: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/26/opinion/jerry-falwell-liberty.html

“The Liturgy of Politics” by Kaitlyn Schiess: https://www.amazon.com/Liturgy-Politics-Spiritual-Formation-Neighbor/dp/0830848304

“Vice President Mike Pence Swapped Out “Jesus” for “Old Glory” in His RNC Address”: https://relevantmagazine.com/culture/vice-president-mike-pence-swapped-out-jesus-for-old-glory-in-his-rnc-address/

Episode 419: Rethinking Roe, Crotch Christianity, & Militant Masculinity with Kristin Kobes Du Mez Aug 26, 2020

Is our vision of the ideal Christian man more like Jesus or John Wayne? Historian Kristin Kobes Du Mez talks about the rise of militant masculinity within evangelicalism, how the threat of Communism in the mid twentieth-century led church leaders to deify testosterone, and why we don’t like images of a weak, crucified Jesus. Also this week, Jerry Falwell’s “pool boy” scandal, John MacArthur says abortion, gay marriage, and transgenderism should determine how Christians vote which leads Skye to explain the difference between “cosmic” and “crotch” Christianity, and Phil unpacks David French’s latest article about why your vote for president will have no impact on abortion. Plus, it’s 130 degrees in Death Valley. What does that mean?

“Do Pro-Lifers Who Reject Trump Have Blood on Their Hands?” by David French

https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/do-pro-lifers-who-reject-trump-have

“About Those Manly Evangelical Protectors” by Kristin Kobes Du Mez: https://kristindumez.com/resources/about-those-manly-evangelical-protectors/

“You Want Context? Jerry Falwell Jr’s Crotch Shot and Family Values Evangelicalism” by Kristin Kobes Du Mez: https://kristindumez.com/resources/you-want-context-jerry-falwell-jr-s-crotch-shot-and-family-values-evangelicalism/

Episode 418: The Pandemic, Power, & the Apocalypse Aug 19, 2020

Back in 2016, Donald Trump gave a campaign speech promising that if elected “Christianity will have power.” The Holy Post crew discusses why this message has so much appeal to some Christians today, the way fear has come to mark our faith, and what we can do to counteract the trend. After the podcast is interrupted by a tornado, Christian asks if we’re seeing signs of the apocalypse. Skye says, “No” and shares his idea for a sermon titled “How Stupid Do We Think God Is?” Plus, listener mail.

The Voting Booth

Christianity Will Have Power

Episode 417: Defining Justice, Disciplining Jerry Falwell Jr., & Debunking Conspiracies Aug 12, 2020

Everyone seems to be talking about justice—including Christians, but how we define “justice” in our society is hotly debated. Pastor and author Tim Keller has outlined 4 competing definitions of justice, and what sets Biblical justice apart from the rest. The Holy Post crew reviews Keller’s article and its implications. Liberty University has put Jerry Falwell Jr. on “indefinite leave.” Was it Falwell’s race-baiting, financial shenanigans, authoritarian leadership, or abuse of power that motivated Liberty’s board to act? Nope—it was a sexually-suggestive photo with Falwell holding alcohol. What does it say about what triggers evangelicals (and what doesn’t)? Also this week, friend of the show and host of the Vox Podcast, Mike Erre, talks with Skye about why Christians are drawn to conspiracy theories, and what motivated Skye to write his new book, “What If Jesus Was Serious?” Plus, Phil explains why he wants to live in a world where wild boar stroll into public areas with their piglets to steal things—and where naked Germans chase them.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/aug/07/german-nudist-chases-wild-boar-that-stole-laptop-berlin-teufelssee

https://quarterly.gospelinlife.com/a-biblical-critique-of-secular-justice-and-critical-theory/

https://thewayofimprovement.com/2020/08/07/why-did-the-liberty-university-board-of-trustees-put-jerry-falwell-jr-on-indefinite-leave/

Episode 416: Love & Truth in Politics with Justin Giboney Aug 05, 2020

Does our faith shape our politics, or is politics shaping our faith? Justin Giboney is an attorney, a political strategist, and the co-founder and president of the AND Campaign. Rather than fighting over whether we should vote red or blue, Giboney believes Christians should use their influence to push both parties toward the love and truth of Christ. He talks with Skye about why that is more necessary and more challenging than ever. Also this week, a new book explores the intersection of white evangelicalism and masculinity leading the Holy Post crew to debate who’s less masculine—Phil or Skye? Plus, a South African couple has made an award-winning gin from elephant dung. Bottoms up!

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/gin-elephant-dung-south-africa

https://religionandpolitics.org/2020/07/07/the-price-of-white-evangelical-patriarchy/

Episode 415: Compromise & Conviction with Jon Tyson Jul 29, 2020

The church in North America has more money and resources than ever before, so why is it increasingly ineffective? Pastor and author, Jon Tyson, is back to talk about his latest book, “Beautiful Resistance: The Joy of Conviction in a Culture of Compromise.” Tyson says “mammon” is the central idol in America today, and that much of the church worships it as well. But what is mammon? And why does Tyson think prayer and fasting is a path for the church to find real power again? He also shares what happened when his entire family contracted COVID19. Also this week, the crew discusses a Twitter thread about the implications or rooting Christian mission in the Great Commission (Matthew 28) rather than creation (Genesis 1-2), and why resistance to social change is foundational to evangelical theology. Finally, what can we learn from the 10 principles of Catholic social teaching?

Links:

https://twitter.com/drantbradley/status/1285975572414423040

https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/1998/10/31/10-building-blocks-catholic-social-teaching

Episode 414: Religious Power vs. Religious Liberty with David French Jul 22, 2020

There are few public thinkers the Holy Post cites more often than David French, and he’s finally here in person! (Well, in person via Zoom.) French is the Senior Editor of The Dispatch, a columnist for Time, and a pro-life conservative attorney. Although many Christians are worried about the erosion of religious liberty, French says, “We have never enjoyed more religious liberty than we do right now.” The problem is that Christians are losing cultural power, and our attempts to retain it are often doing more harm than good. He helps us understand recent Supreme Court rulings about religious liberty and LGBT rights, why conservatives who are against face masks aren’t really pro-life, and how both the Left and Right get racism wrong. French explains why he will not vote for Trump, and why evangelicals have gone from holding their noses to enthusiastic support of a president who lacks both character and competency. Plus, what is “David Frenchism” and should we be worried about it?

The Case for Religious Liberty is More Compelling than the Case for Christian Power - The Dispatch: https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/the-case-for-religious-liberty-is

Episode 413: Disney Princess Theology & COVID19 Activism with Theon Hill Jul 15, 2020

Why is COVID19 disproportionately harming communities of color? Why are we willing to criticize certain things about America but not others? And what about black voices who say systemic racism isn’t real? Friend of the show, Dr. Theon Hill, is back to discuss all of this and more with Phil and Skye. Also this week: why horror movie fans are more prepared than others for the pandemic, and how “Disney princess theology” has shaped the way you read the Bible.

Pandemic Practice: Horror Fans and Morbidly Curious Individuals Are More Psychologically Resilient During the COVID-19 Pandemic - https://psyarxiv.com/4c7af/ Want to Be Happy? A Top Psychologist Says Stop ’Social Distancing,' and Do This Instead - Inc. - https://www.inc.com/bill-murphy-jr/want-to-be-happy-a-top-psychologist-says-stop-social-distancing-do-this-instead.html ‘More than individual sin’ - Black pastors urge evangelicals to admit systemic racism - Religion News Service - https://religionnews.com/2020/07/02/more-than-an-individual-sin-black-pastor-urges-southern-baptists-to-recognize-systemic-racism/ The Color of Compromise: The Truth about the American Church’s Complicity in Racism by Jemar Tisby Why I Stopped Talking About Racial Reconciliation and Started Talking About White Supremacy - Inheritance - https://www.inheritancemag.com/stories/why-i-stopped-talking-about-racial-reconciliation-and-started-talking-about-white-supremacy The Black Church in Action Against Racism and COVID-19: A Practical and Biblical Guide to Prophetic Ministry While Protecting Health - https://www.reopeningthechurch.com/churchinactionmanualdownload

Episode 412: This is Your Brain on God with Dr. Jim Wilder Jul 08, 2020

Some people spend years learning theology and studying the Bible, but experience little or no transformation in their lives. What have we gotten wrong? Dr. Jim Wilder is a neurotheologian—that means he studies theology and brain science—who says we’ve mistakingly made the gospel about knowledge when it’s actually about attachment. You don’t want to miss what he has to say about the importance of food, joy, and gratitude in spiritual formation. Also this week, how does having power—or not having it—influence our beliefs? David French says America is experiencing a religious fundamentalist revival, but it’s not Christian. And is the Holy Post guilty of being an echo chamber?

Episode #412 Opinion | When Antifa Hysteria Sweeps America - New York Times - https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/17/opinion/antifa-protests.html Slave Religion: The "Invisible Institution" in the Antebellum South by Albert J. Raboteau America Is in the Grips of a Fundamentalist Revival — But it’s not Christian. - The Dispatch - https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/america-is-in-the-grips-of-a-fundamentalist Is Intersectionality a Religion? - Intelligencer - https://nymag.com/intelligencer/2017/03/is-intersectionality-a-religion.html Opinion | The Real American Idol and the Lives We Sacrifice to Appease It - https://faithfullymagazine.com/real-american-idol/

Episode 411: Where Do We Go From Here? with David Kinnaman Jul 01, 2020

President of the Barna Group, David Kinnaman, is back to talk about the latest research on race and racism in the American church. Is the divide between black and white Christians shrinking, and is 2020 a true turning point or just an emotional release before a return to old ways of operating? Also this week, how can constellations help us understand the hysteria about Antifa? And does the evangelical emphasis on individual salvation contribute to racial resentment? Plus, an undersea bowel movement two years in the making.

Where do we go from here?

Giant Undersea Bug Poops for First Time In Two Years - Unilad Opinion | When Antifa Hysteria Sweeps America - New York Times Opinion | Racial resentment varies widely among religious groups

Episode 410: White Privilege, Cancel Culture, & Reading Revelation with Juan Hernandez Jun 24, 2020

With the world being rocked by a pandemic and protests, many are seeing signs of the end times predicted by the Bible. Are they right? Some say they are misreading the signs. Others argue they’re misreading the Bible itself. Biblical scholar, Dr. Juan Hernandez, is back to discuss the right way—and the wrong way—to engage one of the most mysterious, and misread, book in the Bible. Also this week, what does “white privilege” actually mean and why do so many people react to the term? Evangelicals are upset about “cancel culture” but did they actually invent it? And learn how to avoid paying a farting fine in Austria. (Hint—it’s all about intestinal intent.)

Evangelicals perfected cancel culture. Now it’s coming for them. - Religion News https://religionnews.com/2020/06/17/evangelicals-perfected-cancel-culture-now-its- coming-for-them/ Austria: man fined for farting ‘with full intent’ at police - ABC News https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/austria-man-fined-farting-full-intent- police-71277117

Episode 409: Lessons from Phil’s Viral Video on Racism Jun 17, 2020

Can a tweet really change anyone’s mind? Do hashtags and slogans help engagement or shut it down? The Holy Post crew discuss what they’re learning about effective communication following the publication of Skye’s op-ed in USA Today and the release of Phil’s viral video on the history of racism. Also this week, the Supreme Court protects LGBT citizens from employment discrimination. What does it mean for religious organizations? Is there a difference between saying “Black Lives Matter” and supporting the organization with that name? Plus, why is Jerry Falwell Jr. apologizing? If you would like a special opportunity to see Christian’s upcoming film, The Girl Who Wore Freedom, please donate a minimum of $25 here: www.thegirlwhoworefreedom.com/donate, and send your receipt to normandystories@gmail.com. You will then receive further instructions.

Episode 408: Race, Riots, & Rethinking the Gospel with Matthew Bates Jun 10, 2020

As the country is rocked by protests following the murder of George Floyd, the podcast crew discusses the meaning of it all. Phil explains how being a part of a multiethnic church has opened his eyes to the challenges people of color still face. Christian reflects on her southern, segregated upbringing. And Skye shares about the racism he’s experienced in the church and the suburbs. Also this week, theologian Matthew Bates explains the ongoing, sometimes bitter debate over the definition of the Gospel. Is it really about personal salvation or something much, much bigger?

Episode 407: Celebrating Spiritual Curiosity with Jen Hatmaker Jun 03, 2020

Some Christian communities are uncomfortable with challenging questions, doubts, and even curiosity. They prefer to keep life and faith in a neatly wrapped package. Jen Hatmaker came from such a community, but growing in her faith required more space to explore. Her spiritual curiosity came at a heavy price. This week the podcast crew talks with Hatmaker about her story, what she’s learned, and what it might mean for the future of Christians in our pluralist culture.

Show Notes:

https://www.holypost.com/post/257-race-in-america-the-history-of-post-civil-war-racism-re-post

https://www.holypost.com/post/how-racial-injustice-has-benefited-me

https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2020/may/george-floyd-ministry-houston-third-ward-church.html

Episode 406: QAnon & Rediscipling the White Church with David Swanson May 27, 2020

Did Bill Gates create the pandemic? Are Democrats running a child-trafficking cartel? Is Trump a secret genius sending coded messages in his tweets? Conspiracy theories are spreading among evangelicals faster than Covid-19. The Holy Post crew discusses The Atlantic’s cover story about QAnon, why it’s so appealing to Christians, and why it’s a dangerous heresy. Then, Skye talks with Chicago pastor David Swanson about his new book “Rediscipling the White Church,” and what would change if pastors began to see racism as a discipleship problem and not merely a social one. Plus—is God against face masks? And a rockstar is hospitalized after an “over-enthusiastic gardening accident.”

Episode 405: Listener Mailbag, “In Trump We Trust,” & Drew Dyck’s Pandemic Picks May 20, 2020

The podcast crew responds to listener feedback and questions posted on HolyPost.com like, is it ok for Christians to be concerned about the mark of the beast if we avoid nutty conspiracy theories? New research finds white evangelicals consider Donald Trump the most trustworthy source for COVID-19 news and generally distrust public health officials and journalists.

This leads Phil to explain the tactics of demagogues and why today’s evangelicals are drawn to them. Also this week, Drew Dyck is back with his latest book and media recommendations to engage while you’re sheltering at home.

GOP Lawmaker Opposes Coronavirus Face Masks Because They Cover ‘The Image Of God’ - HuffPost https://www.huffpost.com/entry/ohio-masks-likeness-of-god-nino-vitale_n_5eb0c6d6c5b62b850f90eb42Where Do White Evangelicals Get Their Coronavirus News? The White House - Christianity Today https://www.christianitytoday.com/news/2020/may/evangelicals-trump-media-public-health-response-coronavirus.htmlOpinion | Trump Is Staking Out His Own Universe of ‘Alternative Facts’ - The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/13/opinion/trump-digital-campaign.html

Episode 404: Gender, Culture, and Leadership with Jo Saxton May 13, 2020

The culture in many Christian communities and organizations is toxic for leaders, their families, and their faith. This is especially true for female leaders. Jo Saxton is back to talk about her new book, “Ready to Rise,” and how churches neglect God’s gifts when they ignore women’s voices and abilities, and why women suppress their gifts to be seen as “humble.” And don’t miss Jo’s important interpretation of the Mary and Martha story from the gospels—Wow. Also this week: Skye shares his family’s quarantine rules. Scholars are redefining the meaning of “evangelical” away from any shared theology and toward shared politics and media figures. Half of Americans aren’t wearing pants while working at home. Self-cleaning underwear has just arrived and you’ll need it when you see 2020’s latest plague—Murder Hornets.

Episode 403: Is God in Control or Not? with Mike Erre May 06, 2020

More Americans have been killed by Covid-19 in two months than were killed in the Vietnam War in 20 years. Some Christians are responding to these uncertain times with familiar platitudes—none more popular than, “God is in control.” But is he? Mike Erre is back to talk about the tension in Scripture between God’s sovereignty and human free will. Also this week: What’s so special about lama blood? Churchgoers attempting to conduct a drive-in service get ticketed. A conspiracy theory growing among Christians says Dr. Fauci planned the pandemic in league with the antichrist. Has gullibility now become a Christian virtue? Skye shares his family’s quarantine rules, and Phil thinks bathing is overrated.

Episode 402: Is the COVID-19 Pandemic Divine Judgment? Apr 29, 2020

The crazy Christian uncles are out in force declaring that the pandemic is God’s judgment on America for our sin and secularism. Are they right? Skye and Christian talk about it in a new edition of “Christian Asks....” Some theologians are arguing the opposite by declaring “God is not in control” of the current crisis. What?! The podcast crew also discusses conservative churches defying the government’s social distancing orders, and why are some Christians valuing the economy more than lives? Plus, scientists say farts can spread the virus, but there’s a solution. And Phil’s ukulele returns!

Episode 401: William Wilberforce—Christian Hero & Drug Addict with Timothy McMahan King Apr 22, 2020

William Wilberforce is celebrated as a model of Christian cultural engagement for ending the British slave trade, but most Christian biographies of Wilberforce ignore the fact that he was addicted to opium for most of his life. Timothy McMahan King, author of “Addiction Nation,” explains why. He shares his own story of overcoming opioid addiction which kills over 70,000 Americans every year, and how equating addiction with moral failure hurts far more than it helps. Also this week, Hulk Hogan says God is judging our idolatry with COVID19. Is he right? Skye explains why the eschatological nuts are probably wrong about this being the end of the world. And Phil tries to cut his hair with horse clippers.

Episode 400: Anniversary Q&A Live via Zoom! Apr 15, 2020

Phil, Skye, and Christian are celebrating their 400th episode like everyone else—quarantined in their homes. But they invited their Patreon supporters to join them for a live Q and A session via Zoom. The crew discusses their favorite podcast guests, interviews that managed to change their minds, and a bucket list of future guests. Youl’ll hear about Phil’s inability to “find my Roy,” their Enneagram numbers, lessons for churches from the pandemic, and hear Skye’s dog barfing in the background. It’s an audio delight for the whole family.

Episode 399: Who Should We Blame? & Helping Girls Change the Narrative with Erin Weidemann Apr 08, 2020

The quarantined gang is back again, with better audio quality this time. (Sorry about last week!) Phil shares an experience with preschool-via-Zoom, then the group discusses two proposed theories for America’s vulnerability to the coronavirus… A) We’re compromised by the anti-science rhetoric of fundamentalist Christianity, or B) We’re all too selfish and individualistic. Skye wonders if the real answer is… C) All of the above?

Plus, Phil (yes, Phil!) sits down for a chat with Erin Weidemann, an author, speaker and cancer survivor who has launched Truth Becomes Her - a ministry helping girls resist society's destructive messages about beauty and worth.

The U.S. has the Most Covid-19 Cases Worldwide. Why? Because we're selfish. From the San Diego Union-Tribune

The Religious Right is Crippling our Coronavirus Response from the New York Times

Episode 398: Tales from the Quarantine & Being Kind with Ashlee Eiland Apr 01, 2020

Phil, Skye, and Christian talk via Zoom as they “shelter at home” during the coronavirus pandemic (sorry for the audio quality), but there is some good news. Clothing sales are up—but only for tops. Churches experiment with ‘drive-in’ worship. Phil shares N.T. Wright’s honest thoughts about the pandemic and why the best Christian response is lament, while Skye responds to fundamentalists who are certain that homosexuality and environmentalism are to blame for the virus. Plus, Mars Hill’s teaching pastor, Ashlee Eiland, talks about her new book and the power of radical kindness in a world of fear.

Episode 397: Virtual Church & Artificial Intelligence with Jason Thacker Mar 25, 2020

Are machines going to take over the world? What happens to our jobs once everything is automated? And if computers can think, learn, and feel, do we need to redefine what it means to be human? Jason Thacker joins Skye for a conversation about his provocative new book, “The Age of A.I.” Also this week, Smurfs congregate in France in defiance of the coronavirus. Creators of “The Bum” allow you to wear celebrity posteriors. And with everyone migrating to streaming worship services during the pandemic, how legitimate is virtual church? Plus, Phil alienates the country of Belgium.

Episode 396: Pandemic, Mr. Phil TV, & Foreign Policy with Bonnie Kristian Mar 18, 2020

The world is upside down because of the coronavirus pandemic, but fear not! Phil is here to save us from being locked in our homes with our children without entertaining and informative Bible content. Learn all about Mr. Phil TV and how to sign up. Also, if you didn’t make it to Costco for toilet paper, we’ve got you covered with natural alternatives for bathroom tissue. Finally, journalist and The Week columnist, Bonnie Kristian, talks to Skye about foreign policy and why it should be the most important factor when voting for a president. (FYI, their conversation was recorded before the COVID-19 outbreak.)

Checkout Phil’s new kids streaming service - Mr. Phil TV - at www.MrPhil.tv and start a free trial!

Episode 395: The End of the World is Nigh! Mar 11, 2020

No, we’re not talking about the global coronavirus pandemic. Phil is worried about a record-breaking locust swarm, an army of 100,000 Chinese ducks, and a new line of “self-care” Barbies complete with a meditation app—because America isn’t self-focused enough. Also this week, screen use and a decline in exposure to sunshine are elongating human eyeballs. The Southern Baptists appear determined to eliminate anyone respected by outsiders from their ranks. Christian updates us on her WWII documentary project, and why does a French tire company rank restaurants.

Episode 394: The Cure for Jerks with Eugene Cho Mar 04, 2020

Eugene Cho is a passionate pastor, author, and activist who has learned how to maintain his convictions without condemning those who do not share them. Sometimes that learning has come through failure, and other times it’s been discovered at a dinner table with those he disagrees with. Cho has compiled his lessons into a new book, “Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk: A Christian’s Guide to Engaging Politics.” Also this week: Will the coronavirus force churches to think outside the box? A court says Christian college students must be allowed to evangelize in Chicago’s most popular park. And a poll by Christian politicians backfires spectacularly.

Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk by Eugene Cho https://www.amazon.com/Thou-Shalt-Not-Jerk-Christians/dp/0781411157

Sign the Evangelical Immigration Table’s Restitution petition: http://evangelicalimmigrationtable.com/restitution/

Episode 393: Who Moved My Refugees? with Matthew Soerens (Part 2) Feb 26, 2020

The American church talks a lot about the family. Some might say we’re focused on it, but is that right? The podcast crew discusses a provocative new article by conservative columnist, David Brooks, about our society’s focus on the small nuclear family (mom, dad, and kids), why they’re unsustainable, and why extended family groups have always been the norm in human societies. World Relief’s Matthew Soerens is back for the second part of his interview about the state of refugees, and Skye talks about the racial history of America’s immigration policy. Also this week: Phil’s animal stories—car-sized turtles, the real-life Disney baboon, lazy salamanders, and talking penguins.

Episode 392: Who Moved My Refugees? with Matthew Soerens (Part 1) Feb 19, 2020

The podcast crew responds to listener reactions to their Super Bowl halftime show episode which leads to a conversation about the physical difference between men and women. Is there any, and if so does it matter? The bad behavior of a TSA agent would suggest so. Phil explains why he can’t wear a speedo to McDonald's. Christian reacts to a calendar featuring topless Canadian firefighters. And Skye doesn’t like the new Billie Eilish song. Plus, part one of a conversation with Matthew Soerens from World Relief about the drastically reduced number of refugees being admitted to the U.S. and why the policy is bad for both the church and the economy.

Episode 391: Teens, Faith, & Anxiety with Kara Powell Feb 12, 2020

Rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among teens have skyrocketed in recent years which has put new strains on both parents and youth ministers. Dr. Kara Powell, director of the Fuller Youth Institute, is back to talk about new research and a curriculum to help families and churches navigate faith in an increasingly anxious world. Also this week: Some Christians want to be liberated from the “barbaric, totalitarian, and corrupt regime” that is Virginia. Is Franklin Graham being persecuted in the U.K., or is the culture warrior reaping what he’s sown? And a 15-year-old is expelled from a Christian school for wearing a rainbow sweater.

Episode 390: Halftime Hullabaloo & Drew Dyck’s Picks Feb 05, 2020

The Super Bowl halftime show featuring Jennifer Lopez and Shakira has some Christians upset. Was it a case of objectifying women’s bodies or an important validation of Latin culture and female liberation? Phil & Skye unpack the debate. Also this week, Drew Dyck is back with his latest book and TV picks. He offers his take about the Trinity, secularism, and a controversial Netflix series about a modern-day messiah.

Episode 389: Leveling the Church with Micah Fries Jan 29, 2020

The Apostle Paul says that Christ has given leaders to the church to “equip” the saints not to “serve” the saints. So why do we treat pastors like entertainers, CEOs, or suppliers of religious goods and services? Micah Fries talks about his new book, “Leveling the Church,” and how healing the clergy-laity divide is more important than ever. Also this week: a study finds Christians are more likely to own dogs while atheists own cats—but there’s a twist. The end has come for TV eschatologist Jack Van Impe. And Ethical Veganism has become a recognized religion in the UK launching the podcast crew into a wider discussion about ethics and animals.

Episode 388: From Culture Wars to Common Good with Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove Jan 22, 2020

Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove was a zealous supporter of the religious Right, but after seeing the movement up close he began to question how a faith that affirms the dignity of all people had become one of division, fear, and dehumanizing enemies. He shares his journey and how a proper reading of the Bible will change the questions we ask. Also this week: Phil, Skye, and Christian discuss what they’ve learned a month after the Christianity Today / Christian Post / Donald Trump kerfuffle. Plus, a popular theologian defends Trump because of his “good fruit,” but are lower taxes and federal judges what Jesus meant?

Episode 387: The Christian Post & Team Trump w/ Napp Nazworth Jan 15, 2020

On December 23, the politics editor at The Christian Post, Napp Nazworth, abruptly announced his resignation after 8 years with CP. The online news site decided to publish an editorial throwing its full support behind Donald Trump, and Nazworth wasn’t on board. He shares about the transformation he observed as evangelical leaders went from opposing Trump, to reluctantly supporting him, to absolute loyalty, and what it means for the future of Christian journalism. Also this week, Christian gets rebuked on a French train, the Hallmark Channel angers a million moms, the Salvation Army says it’s not anti-LGBT, and a youth pastor running a marathon gets in deep trouble.

Episode 386: Mailbag of the Decade Jan 08, 2020

What keeps Phil, Christian, and Skye committed to their faith? Is there anything the church is doing really well today? What’s up with Christian’s WWII documentary and Phil’s new TV show? Where are the Christian “Yoda’s” today? Is it wrong to not vote? And do pets go to heaven? The Holy Post crew is kicking off the 2020s with listener questions. Buckle up, the conversation goes to some unexpected places.

Episode 385: Where the Gospel Meets Social Media Jan 02, 2020

Christians Believe we were made for community, but what happens when pixels replace people? Stories about how social media has changed us and what some people are doing about it.

This episode is in partnership with the Love Thy Neighborhood Podcast.

Episode 384: A Christmas Message for the Smartphone Generation Dec 25, 2019

Merry Christmas! While the Holy Post crew is away for the holidays, we didn’t want to leave you without an episode of your favorite podcast. To fill the gap, here’s an Advent sermon Skye preached back in 2017 that relates to some themes we’ve been covering on recent shows.

Episode 383: Breaking News- CT v Trump Dec 22, 2019

Christianity Today editor, Mark Galli, has taken a shot at Donald Trump and his evangelical supporters heard around the world. He’s called for Trump’s removal and for evangelicals who continue to defend the president’s immorality and corruption to consider the damage they are doing to the reputation of the church and its mission. Holy Post listeners asked for our perspective and we’ve heard your cries. Phil, Skye, and Christian are here to discuss the fallout of Galli’s editorial, media coverage of the event, and to help put it all in context.

Episode 382: The Right Side of History with Os Guinness Dec 18, 2019

Prolific writer, philosopher, and cultural observer, Os Guinness, is back on the podcast to discuss his latest book, “Carpe Diem Redeemed.” Guinness says the modern assumption that history is inevitably moving in a positive, progressive direction is wrong, and we need to have our vision of time challenged by scripture. He talks with Skye about three understandings of time and their implications for life today. Also this week, a freaky/heretical new video game lets you become Jesus. A psychologist instructs atheist parents to lie to their kids about God because religious belief is better for mental health. And why do people in Loma Linda, California, live 10 years longer than most Americans?

Episode 381 Screens & Perpetual Immaturity with Read Schuchardt Dec 11, 2019

Screens are making us into animals rather than creative image-bearers of God, says Wheaton College communication professor Read Schuchardt. Our addiction to our devices and social media means we’re losing the ability to self-regulate and reason. Instead, like infants or animals, Schuchardt says we merely react to external stimulation. In a wide-ranging conversation, he talks with Skye about new research about smartphones, the importance of boredom, and the spiritual implications of our social media age. Also this week, N.T. Wright says the solution to the problems facing American Christianity is deeper engagement with the Bible, while Jerry Falwell Jr. says the answer is fighting liberals. Who’s right? Plus, American Airlines apologizes to a Satanist.

Episode 380: The Next Sexual Frontier with Preston Sprinkle Dec 04, 2019

Over just a few decades, we’ve seen the acceptance of no-fault divorce, the growth of the gay rights movement, the legalization of same-sex marriage, and now transgenderism. What’s next? Scholar and author Preston Sprinkle is back to help us understand the emerging affirmation of polyamory. Also this week, Skye is back from Europe and Phil becomes a grandfather (again). Plus, is Chick-Fil-A still Christian chicken with a pickle? Controversy erupts after the company’s decision to stop donations to ministries.

Episode 379: The World According to N.T. Wright Nov 27, 2019

He’s one of the most celebrated New Testament scholars of our time, and he’s back on the show! N.T. Wright’s lifetime of biblical scholarship has been compiled into a new book that covers the history, literature, and theology of the New Testament. He sits down with Skye to explore the ways we commonly misread the Bible, where those errors come from, and why understanding it from the point of view of the first-century is essential for twenty-first-century Christians. Also this week: what the guy who slashed the “Baby Trump” balloon can tell us about our political, cultural, and religious divisions. And, the ACLU doesn’t like a new law in Ohio meant to protect the religious expression of students.

Episode 378: Is the “Real” America Urban or Rural? with Brandon O’Brien Nov 20, 2019

Our friend, Brandon O’Brien, is back on the show to discuss his new book “Not From Around Here.” Drawing from his upbringing in rural Arkansas and his new life in Manhattan, O’Brien examines the divide between urban and rural Americans, and how the divisions are hurting both the country and the church. He also explores the best way to heal the divisions and move forward. His wisdom is exactly what we need heading into an election year. Also this week: Francis Chan announces he’s moving to Asia to be a missionary and offers a few parting shots at the American church. Plus, why we might need fewer teachers and preachers if we really want to advance the mission of Christ. And, Soviet nuclear cannibal ants are on the march.

Episode 377: The Faith of Mister Rogers with Shea Tuttle Nov 14, 2019

Fred Rogers is all the rage. He spoke to children and families for decades on the PBS show “Mister Rogers Neighborhood” and a movie about him starring Tom Hanks is releasing this month. But fewer people realize Rogers was an ordained minister with a deep faith. Shea Tuttle talks to Skye about her remarkable spiritual biography of Fred Rogers—a Christian who defied categories with a holistic vision of faith. Also this week, “Christian chicken with a picket” in the U.K., a Gospel singer boycotts TBN and the Dove Awards, a secularist laments that we’re no longer a Christian nation, and Phil’s excited about a smart Chinese toilet that can change the world.

Episode 376: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry with John Mark Comer Nov 06, 2019

Before Edison invented the lightbulb the average American slept 11 hours each night. Technology hasn’t just made life easier, it’s made it a lot busier. John Mark Comer is back to discuss his new book about the importance of slowing down in order to deepen our life with God. Also this week: $3,000 sneakers infused with water from the Jordan River sell out. Harvest (finally) declares James MacDonald “disqualified” from ministry. How should we feel about Kanye becoming a Christian? And Baptists and Catholics partner to save marriages in Florida.

Episode 375: Spiritual Homelessness with Mike Erre Oct 30, 2019

Do you feel alienated from the evangelical tradition of your youth, but not at home with the more liberal versions of the faith either? Welcome to the ranks of the spiritually homeless. Friend of the show Mike Erre is back to discuss the trend and the stages that lead a disappointed evangelical to become fully de-converted. Also this week: A woman in Germany says her passionate relationship with a Boeing 737-800 is true love. A Russian man sues Apple claiming an app made him gay. The Vatican tries to woo tech-savvy millennials back to religion with the “e-rosary.” Plus, Phil and Skye examine the philosophy fueling the “anti-natalist” movement which says the only moral, logical, and compassionate option is for all humans to stop having children.

Episode 374: Parting Words to the Church on Race & Love with Dr. John Perkins Oct 23, 2019

89-year-old Dr. John Perkins has a lot to say to Christians about race, friendship, and the power of God’s love. The civil rights legend talks with Skye about his remarkable life, the problem with everyone focusing on their victimhood, and how “real reconciliation is washing each other’s wounds.” Also this week: John MacArthur tells Beth Moore to “Go home.” His audience laughed; Christian-twitter did not. Phil and Skye debate whether MacArthur even matters anymore. New Pew data says the U.S. will be majority non-Christian by 2035. Plus, the world’s largest ouija board debuts in Salem, Massachusetts.

Episode 373: Will Democrats End Religious Tax-Exemption? With John Inazu Oct 16, 2019

This week Democratic presidential candidate, Beto O’Rourke, called for churches and religious organizations that do not support same-sex marriage to lose their tax-exempt status. Skye talks with law professor and political scientist John Inazu about the issue. Is there a real risk? What’s the difference between churches and religious schools according to the law? And would losing tax-exemption necessarily be bad? Also this week, “Rise of the Planet of the Pigs”? Filipino pigs in France have learned to use tools. The court says the University of Iowa has discriminated against religious students. And a progressive seminary is conducting services for people to confess their sins to plants.

Episode 372: How Race Became Religion with Willie James Jennings Oct 09, 2019

Did God create the different races and intend them to be separate, or is race a social and cultural invention? Theologian Willie James Jennings joins Skye for a mind-stretching conversation about the role of race in our faith, how “whiteness” has influenced Christianity, why a proper vision of Jesus’ incarnation challenges many of our assumptions, and the racial Cold War occurring in our country. Also this week: A study that found religious kids are nastier and less generous than secular kids is retracted due to a math error. Trump’s “court evangelicals” warn that his impeachment could start a new civil war. The podcast hosts discuss the pros and cons of impeachment and over-spiritualizing political differences.

Episode 371: The Case for Apologetics with Lee Strobel Oct 02, 2019

It’s been over 20 years since Lee Strobel wrote his best-selling book “The Case for Christ.” He talks with Skye about the changing role of apologetics in our post-Christian culture. It’s no longer just intellectual barriers that keep people from faith, says Strobel, but emotional barriers. Today, Christian credibility depends more on our love than our arguments. Also this week: Scientists discover squirrels eavesdrop on birds. Phil and Skye debate the significance of a Missouri council member taking her oath on a Dr. Suess book. Conservative critics are accusing Democrats of being “godless,” but Pew finds a strong majority of voters in both parties say religion is important in their lives. Plus, the top 10 signs your Christianity has been “Americanized.”

Episode 370: How (Not) to Read the Gospels with Juan Hernandez Sep 25, 2019

“What really happened?” That’s a question many people bring to their reading of the Gospels. As a result, some Christians stitch together divergent accounts from Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John to create a single narrative of Jesus’ life and ministry. According to Juan Hernandez, professor of biblical studies at Bethel University, this is a huge mistake. He talks with Skye about common errors we make when reading the gospels and why we must understand them literarily and not just literally. Also in this episode: Russian priests bomb a city with holy water to stop the drinking and fornication. Skye supports a mass wedding at a Dallas megachurch for cohabitating couples. The Methodists are planning a split over LGBT ordination. One writer believes 2016 marks the biggest crisis for evangelicals since the Scopes Monkey Trial in 1925. And Phil bends the knee to the invisible hand of the almighty Bezos.

Episode 369: From Models & Bottles to Water & Wells with Scott Harrison Sep 18, 2019

For ten years, Scott Harrison was one of the most successful club promoters in NYC. His life was marked by every hedonistic indulgence imaginable. Today, he’s the founder and CEO of Charity:Water, a non-profit that has brought clean water to over 10 million people around the world. Scott shares the remarkable story of his transformation and faith with Skye in an interview you won’t want to miss. Also this week, the head of a Catholic school bans Harry Potter books because he fears the spells they contain are real. New data says Millennials are abandoning God, country, and family. Is there a single explanation for all three? The podcast gang debates the leading theories. And Phil is hopeful about a new NPR podcast that interviews religious believers.

Episode 368: Rethinking Church in Digital Babylon with David Kinnaman (Part 2) Sep 11, 2019

Based on a decade of research with the Barna Group, David Kinnaman says we’re not in Kansas anymore. We now occupy digital Babylon—a new world where people are discipled by their screens, don’t know how to have meaningful relationships, and distrust organizations. What does this all mean for the church? He talks with Skye about everything from rethinking preaching, the diminishing value of youth ministry, and a backlash against “professional” worship. Also this week, Phil reads from his new Bible and has a dream/nightmare about Donald Trump. Christian asks where we should get our news from. NFL quarterback Drew Brees gets in trouble for appearing in a Focus on the Family video. And research says the church, like politics, is losing moderates.

Episode 367: Resilient Faith in Digital Babylon with David Kinnaman (Part 1) Sep 04, 2019

According to years of research from the Barna Group, only about 10% of young adults raised in the church have a resilient faith. Some may see that as bad news, but not David Kinnaman. He dug deeper to see what was different about these 4 million Millennials and Gen Zers, and he came away deeply encouraged. He talks with Skye about the 5 traits of “resilient disciples” and what it means for the future of the church. Also this week, Phil, Christian, and Skye talk about the wave of Christian leaders abandoning the faith and what it means for labels like “evangelical,” “ex-evangelical,” “fundamentalist,” and “progressive.” Plus, plague-infected prairie dogs and pooping Legos.

Episode 366: The Secret Evangelical Illuminati with John Fea Aug 28, 2019

Buckle your seatbelts. While promoting his new VeggieTales show, Phil was asked about LGBTs in kids’ media. Now everyone from Ben Shapiro to The Advocate is responding. Phil’s off the cuff remarks have made him a hero to some and a villain to others. This week he explains why he’s neither, and how both sides of the culture war twist things to fit their biases. Then Skye interviews official Holy Post historian, John Fea, about the new Netflix documentary series “The Family.” Is there really a secret society of evangelicals inflitrating world governments? Fea offers both history and perspective on the shadowy group behind the National Prayer Breakfast and explains what the Netflix show gets right and wrong about Christians in politics.

Episode 365: Celebrity Marriages, Deep Fake Tech, & Does Porn Still Matter? Aug 21, 2019

Another celebrity couple’s marriage has ended, but don’t worry—they’re still committed to their pet pigs. New data finds Americans have lost faith in technology to the point that churches are now viewed more favorably than big tech firms. Another survey finds conservative Christians use less porn than other Americans, but they feel way worse about it. Should we continue to stigmatize the sinfulness of pornography? The gang has a lively discussion about it. Also this week, Drew Dyck is back with his latest book recommendations, and he talks with Skye about the flurry of Christian leaders announcing their renunciation of the faith via social media. Plus, Phil wants to know why web algorithms are telling him to buy a cereal called Poop Like a Campion.

Episode 364: Finding God in the Ordinary with Glenn Packiam Aug 15, 2019

American Christianity is fixated on celebrity pastors, spectacular worship, and doing big things for God. But most of our lives aren’t that extraordinary. That’s good news, according to Glenn Packiam. He’s been a megachurch worship leader and pastor, but now he finds God in the most ordinary things. He talks with Skye about his new book, “Blessed, Broken, Given.” Also this week, Phil and Skye reflect on the recent shootings in El Paso and Dayton. Should the Billy Graham Rule apply to police officers? And a German study involving dropping oranges at train stations reveals surprising things about immigrants and discrimination.

Episode 363: Why Secularism is Good News with Mark Sayers Aug 07, 2019

Many Christians are lamenting or panicking as the culture becomes increasingly post-Christian, but not Mark Sayers. The Australian church leader and author believes the rise of secularism is good news for the church and its mission. He talks with Skye about his new book and explains how the church has historically found new life amid global crises. Also this week, a new study finds religious children are meaner than secular kids. Archeologists uncover an ancient biblical city. Democrats and Republicans both suffer from “bubblism.” Skye compares pastors to stand-up comics. Phil explains why HBO is evil. And the gang talks about donkey dung, tiny Hindu children, and why time travel is great for white people.

Episode 362: The Sexual Prosperity Gospel with Katelyn Beaty Jul 31, 2019

With the implosion of evangelical purity culture, and news that its poster child is getting divorced, many are reevaluating the legacy of the movement that dominated youth ministries in the 80s and 90s. Katelyn Beaty is back to talk about her recent article about the problems with the sexual ethics of both evangelical and secular cultures. Also this week, a Catholic school in Indiana is getting heat for firing a teacher in a gay marriage, and the Evangelical Covenant Church banished a 134-year-old congregation for its LGBT policy. These stories provoke the question: Is it still ok for Christian organizations to enforce Christian beliefs? And what does the future look like when nearly half of millennial evangelicals support same-sex marriage?

Episode 361: Prophets, Pigeonaries, and Politics Jul 26, 2019

Christian is back! She updates us on her travels to France and the status of her new film, “The Girl Who Wore Freedom.” A review of the new documentary “American Heretics” reveals that liberals in Hollywood are begging Christians to follow Jesus. Tim Dalrymple, the new president of Christianity Today, says white Christians need to confront Donald Trump when he takes aim at people of color. Has CT rediscovered its prophetic voice? A former missionary asks why white evangelicals are so eager to help the poor and suffering overseas but are the least likely group to welcome or help them at home? Skye says it’s because the latter makes us feel righteous, while the former requires repentance. And Phil worries that tweeting Christian values will spark a backlash—among Christians!

Episode 360: The Christian Case for Reparations with Theon Hill Jul 18, 2019

Should the United States compensate the descendants of African slaves? If so, what should that compensation look like? And what does Christian faith have to say about repentance and reparation for wrongs committed by prior generations? Dr. Theon Hill is back on the show to talk about recent congressional hearings on the matter, and his conversation with Skye might surprise you. Also this week, a church in Indiana is paying off medical debts. For the first time ever, Canada has surpassed the U.S. as the most welcoming country to refugees. That launches Phil and Skye into a history of U.S. immigration policies. Christian singer Nichole Nordeman wrote an open letter to Franklin Graham asking him to send “Operation Christmas Child” shoeboxes to kids in detention centers at the Southern border. Is Graham’s silence a result of his support for Trump and his border policies? And “love” for Donald Trump is causing a rift among evangelicals.

Episode 359: Declining Marriage, Mammal Brains, & Turkey Murder Jul 11, 2019

Why are fewer people getting married? One study says it’s because weddings have become too expensive. Skye isn’t buying it. Phil explains why dads are responsible for our large brains, and gives ammo to social conservatives in the process. And Christian’s back! (Sort of.) In a special segment of “Christian Asks,” she talks with Skye about his recent devotional series about idols. That leads to a conversation about the right and wrong way to read the Bible, the concept of narrative fallacy, and slaughtering turkeys.

Episode 358: Christians vs. Satanist in Offensive Prayer Showdown with John Inazu Jul 04, 2019

Prepare to be offended. Phil has written a new Bible and Skye’s offended at what passes as a “Bible” these days. Jerry Falwell Jr. is offended that Russell Moore has the audacity to comment about moral issues without being a business owner. Everyone else is offended by Falwell. A Christian lawmaker offended non-Christians with her prayer in the Pennsylvania state legislature, and Christians are offended when a Satanist offers the opening prayer at a government meeting in Alaska. Skye discusses these cases with law and religion professor, John Inazu, as well as other recent rulings by the Supreme Court.

Episode 357: Nones Love Nuns & Us Versus Them with David Fitch Jun 26, 2019

According to David Fitch, the contemporary church has become an “enemy-making machine” that thrives by identifying and amplifying threats. He talks with Skye about his new book, “The Church of Us vs Them,” how anger has come to dominate our communities, and the practices that can help us break this pattern. Also this week, Phil shares the unlikely movement of non-religious millennials moving into convents with nuns. That leads to a discussion about Disney-themed gay weddings, babies and bath water, and new research that says millennials are more “spiritual” than older Americans. Plus, scientists use stem cells to grow a nose on a woman’s spine.

Episode 356: The Future of the Church with Mike Erre (Part 2) Jun 19, 2019

Mike Erre is back for the second part of his conversation with Skye on the future of the church in America. This time they talk about the difference between “Cold War” Christianity and “Game of Thrones” Christianity. Plus, why does it feel like everything in the culture—including faith and politics—is being pushed to the extremes? What happened to the middle ground and can it be recovered? Also this week, the Ark Encounter amusement park is suing its insurance provider for not covering flood damage. Gay characters are becoming more common on children’s television which causes Phil to revisit Jerry Falwell’s crusade against Tinky Winky—the ambiguously gay Telletubbie. Plus, Beth Moore is on a mission to shine a light on the sexism and misogyny within the Southern Baptist Convention, but is there more than complementarian theology behind the criticism she’s now receiving?

Episode 355: The Future of the Church with Mike Erre (Part 1) Jun 12, 2019

Friend of the show, Mike Erre (aka, the bald Buckeye with a brain), celebrated the 200th episode of his show—the Vox Podcast—by inviting Skye to join him for a conversation about the future of the church in America. Will we lose tax-exempt status? Will progressive social and sexual views win? And how did the Cold War give us modern evangelicalism? Also this week, is Bill Gates flushing away his fortune by trying to reinvent the toilet? An 80-year Harvard study has finally discovered the key to happiness, but a “happiness expert” in the U.K. disagrees and says we should all stop having children. Plus, why are religious couples more sexually satisfied?

Episode 354: Persecution, Privilege, & Identity Politics with John Fea Jun 06, 2019

In a number of recent commencement speeches at Christian colleges, Vice President Mike Pence has been warning graduates about the hostility of our culture toward Christians. Historian John Fea is back to talk about what Pence gets right, and what he gets wrong, about the persecution of evangelicals in the U.S. Plus, Fea shares his theory about why regular church attendees are the most likely to still support Trump. Also this week, an evangelical activist is guilty of “astroturfing” Muslims. Airports try to ban Chick-Fil-A and Hollywood studios boycott states passing abortion restrictions. And is conservative politics killing white churches?

Episode 353: Beating Guns into Garden Tools with Shane Claiborne May 31, 2019

Guns kill an average of 105 Americans every day. Shane Claiborne is on a mission to change that with a converted school bus and a forge. He is literally beating guns into gardening tools & challenging our culture’s addiction to violence in the process. He talks with Skye about the legal and spiritual problem we’re facing. Also this week... Experts warned Netflix its series “13 Reasons Why” would cause an increase in teen suicide. That’s exactly what happened but Netflix doesn’t seem to care. Have the Harry Potter books replaced the Bible as Millennials’ foundational text? And why are more Americans impervious to facts?

Episode 352: Athleisure, Abortion, and Ancient Squirrels with Mike Nawrocki May 22, 2019

Are yoga pants causing an increase in liposuction? Phil links the popularity of tight-fitting “athleisure” clothing to rising insecurity about one’s physical appearance. Televangelists are selling gold Trump prayer coins featuring the President and King Cyrus. And the crew talks about the new strict abortion laws in Alabama and Georgia. Skye explains why overturning Roe v. Wade won’t solve the issue. And has tribal politics made a common-sense compromise on the issue impossible? Plus, Phil’s VeggieTales partner and voice of Larry the Cucumber, Mike Nawrocki, talks about his newest project. `

Episode 351: The Opposite of Poverty Isn’t the American Dream May 15, 2019

Skye often tries to bring economics into the show’s theological discussions. This week his dream comes true with guests Brian Fikkert (an economist) and Kelly Kapic (a theologian), co-authors of “Becoming Whole.” They say our ideas about God’s mission are too entangled with Western materialism on the one hand, and not material enough on the other. This conversation will really challenge your assumptions. Also this week, the IRS says the Satanic Temple is a legitimate religion, The Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue now has a model in a burka and hijab, and should we be happy or worried about Kanye West talking a lot about Jesus and leading “Sunday Service” concerts?

Episode 350: The Christian Wisdom of Cognitive Dissonance May 08, 2019

Jesus told us to “not judge,” but what does that really mean? In a special segment called “Christian Asks...” normally only available to Holy Post’s Patreon supporters, Skye and Christian discuss what it means to live with discernment but not judgment in a pluralistic culture. While talking about capital punishment, gay marriage, and immigration, they unpack why fundamentalism on both the right and left is so appealing, and why we must avoid both. Also this week—a new parody movie called “Faith-Based” has the crew asking what makes something “faith-based”? And does overlooking Trump’s immorality while condemning Bill Clinton’s make white evangelicals hypocritical Christians or faithful Republicans?

Episode 349: Brain Damaged Fundamentalists & the Failure of Liberalism May 01, 2019

It’s a potpourri week on the podcast. Phil sees evidence of God in self-sacrificing insects. Former congresswoman Michelle Bachman calls Trump “highly biblical” and “godly.” Skye would like to reverse engineer what Bible she’s reading. Scientists find a link between fundamentalism and brain damage. Plus, Drew Dyck is back to discuss why democracy is failing everywhere and the magical thinking behind multi-level marketing.

Ep 348: Preachers, Sneakers, & Post-Church Believers Apr 24, 2019

Is it okay for a pastor to wear $5,000 shoes? How about $500 sneakers? What if they were a gift? What if the pastor serves an affluent, brand-savvy community? Phil and Skye engage the “PreachersNSneakers” debate and unpack the cultural nuances. A new survey finds most people believe in God, but church involvement is rapidly declining. The reasons are complex, but Skye says the preaching-focused structure of most churches needs to be rethought in the Internet Age. Also this week, a Florida “saint” wants to destroy the world with his turtle army.

Ep 347: The Inexpressible Lovingkindness of God with Michael Card Apr 17, 2019

It’s been five years since the conservative Christian revenge fantasy film, God’s Not Dead, hit theaters. The Holy Post crew reflects on its impact and implications. Historian Mark Noll looks at the new shape of world Christianity (hint: it’s a lot less white than it used to be). And Skye talks with songwriter, author, and theologian Michael Card about the inexpressible lovingkindness of God. Oh, and Phil is fascinated by the connection between Earth’s magnetic field and dog poop.

Ep 346: Confronting the Evangelical Industrial Complex with Julie Roys Apr 10, 2019

Christian’s finally back! The podcast trio give updates on their recent travels and projects. Phil’s making a new VeggieTales show, Christian’s making a WWII documentary, and Skye missed his ship and ate a frog. They also discuss new research that says cultivating awe makes us into better people. So why does modern Christianity work so hard to make God understandable and the world controllable? Then Skye interviews journalist Julie Roys about her reporting that led to James McDonald’s firing from Harvest Bible Chapel, and the broader challenges facing an evangelicalism driven by money, celebrity, and poor accountability. And are online whistleblowers really helping, or are they becoming a new expression of the same problem—powerful voices with no accountability?

Episode 345: Torah! Torah! Torah! with Dr. John Walton Apr 03, 2019

Old Testament professor and friend of the show, Dr. John Walton is back with his latest book in the “Lost World” series. This time he’s tackling common misunderstandings about the Old Testament Law. Walton says modern people incorrectly see the Torah as legislation—laws to be obeyed, but that’s not how Ancient Near Eastern cultures saw it. And the traditional division of OT laws into civil, moral, and ceremonial categories is also misguided. So what does that mean for us? Phil and Skye pepper the prof with questions. Also this week—archeologists find King Josiah under a parking lot (maybe), and herpes in space!

Episode 344: Outrage, Evangelicals, & Anuses with Ed Stetzer Mar 27, 2019

Back in 2009, a widely read article predicted “the coming evangelical collapse” would occur within ten years. Well, it’s 2019 and evangelicals are still here, but where are they heading? Pastor, professor, author, and researcher, Ed Stetzer is back on the show to discuss new data about evangelicalism, the rise of Christian nationalism, and why the growth of secularism may be a good thing for the church. Phil and Skye also talk to him about his book, “Christians in the Age of Outrage,” and what exactly is the difference between Fundamentalists and Evangelicals? Also this week—Azusa Pacific’s LGBT stance confuses everyone, Lifeway bookstores are disappearing, and so are jellyfish anuses.

Episode 343: Politics Panel at Taylor University Mar 20, 2019

Skye’s in Hong Kong, Christian is interviewing French senior citizens, and Phil is writing scripts and playing with puppets—so, we have a special episode this week. Last month, Skye was part of a panel discussion on politics at Taylor University. We captured the audio to share with you. The other speakers include Nina Barnes (Vice President of Student Life, University of Northwestern), Alan Noble (Co-founder of Christ & Pop-Culture), and Michael Wear (Chief Strategist for the AND Campaign). We’ll be back next week with a regular episode.

Episode 342: Rethinking Christian Leadership with Dr. Eugene Habecker Mar 13, 2019

Our culture talks a lot about leadership—both inside and outside the church. With so many conferences and resources dedicated to making Christian leaders, why are we seeing so many scandals? Gene Habecker has given a lot of thought to this problem after leading numerous organizations. You’ll find his perspective illuminating and surprising. Also this week, researchers discover bees can learn math leaving reality TV as the final thing separating humans from animals. Plus, Phil asks why women are more religious than men, and why African-Americans engage the Bible more than any other Americans.

Episode 341: Adolescence Isn’t What It Used to Be w/ Kara Powell & Steven Argue Mar 07, 2019

In the past, the transition from childhood to adulthood was just a few awkward years. New research says the transition is now much, much longer. According to Kara Powell and Steve Argue from the Fuller Youth Institute, childhood is ending earlier with 14-year-olds encountering very adult issues, while many 28-year-olds continue to live like teenagers. How do we respond as parents and faith communities to this prolonged adolescence? Powell and Argue are here to discuss their new book, “Growing With,” and their insightful research on the topic. Also this week: Professional female athletes in the UK are accused of bigotry for objecting to transgender women in sports, and Phil gets excited about glitter-farting trolls.

Ep 340: Spineless Morons & Fragile Snowflakes Feb 27, 2019

What causes “Trump-fever”? According to Baptist pastor and Trump cheerleader, Robert Jeffress, it’s all about abortion. He calls never-Trump evangelicals “spineless morons” because they won’t admit that Trump has been an effective pro-life president. Is he right? Not according to a new book called “Alienated America” by Timothy Carney. His data says cultural pessimism explains why some Republican towns embraced Trump in the primaries while other rejected him. Could that also explain his evangelical support? And Drew Dyck is back to discuss a new book on how we’ve made a generation of Americans into fragile snowflakes.

Episode 339: Politics & the Crisis of Discipleship with Michael Wear Feb 21, 2019

Michael Wear has seen the intersection of faith and politics from the inside. Having worked in the White House and for political campaigns, Wear says the current state of politics reveals a crisis of discipleship in the American church. He talks with Skye about the way politics is shaping our faith when it ought to be the other way around. They also discuss the 2020 presidential candidates & their mixed messages about faith. Also this week, Phil and Skye discuss why the Swiss gave up on their plan to send reality TV stars to Mars, cow vigilantes unleash violence in India, and new research indicates religious kids may be nice but dumb.

Ep 338: Bogus Bible Diets, LGBs Rethink Ts, and Bob Jones U. Feb 13, 2019

Bob Jones University didn’t admit black students until the 1970s and didn’t permit interracial dating until 2000. For decades the school was a symbol of white Christian racism, so why did Theon Hill, an African-American who grew up near Chicago, choose to attend BJU? Hill is now a professor at Wheaton College and shares what he learned about faith and racism from his undergraduate years at Bob Jones. Also this week, Phil and Skye discuss the rising popularity of Bible-based diets like the Daniel Plan and why they’re more American than Christian. Some feminist and gay leaders are becoming concerned that the transgender movement is eroding the intellectual foundations of feminism and homosexuality. Plus, new research finds millennials are too lazy to eat cereal.

Episode 337: Theology Mailbag & the Death of Plinky Pete Feb 06, 2019

Does using medicine mean we distrust God? Are all sins really the same? Don’t annihilationists and atheists believe the same thing? You asked and we answer in this week’s special mailbag show. Plus, a Canadian denomination allows an atheist to be a pastor. Can we solve the abortion battle by going for the Democrat’s “Green New Deal? New data says most Christian millennials think evangelism is wrong. Plus, Phil and Skye react to the Super Bowl half-time show and debate who murdered Phil’s ukulele.

Episode 336: Do Old Testament Commands Still Apply? With Mike Erre Jan 30, 2019

An influential pastor has created a controversy by saying the 10 Commandments don’t apply to Christians anymore. Our favorite Buckeye Bible guy, Mike Erre, is back to talk with Skye about how the Old Testament relates to the New. Phil and Skye discuss the latest round of megachurch pastor scandals, Democratic presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard apologizes for being raised Catholic, and Karen Pence, the vice president’s wife, ignites moral outrage for teaching at a Christian school that requires their faculty to (hold on to your hats) affirm Christian doctrines?

Episode 335: The Past, Present, & Future of Politics with Jon Ward Jan 23, 2019

Jon Ward is back! He’s the senior political correspondent for Yahoo News and the author of the new book Camelot’s End about the 1980 primary fight between Jimmy Carter and Ted Kennedy. Ward unpacks the current dynamics within the Republican and Democratic parties, and what to expect as we move toward the 2020 election. Also this week: Christians freak out over “McJesus” in Israel, social media freaks out over Catholic teens with MAGA hats in Washington, and is the 400-year-old white Western Christian bubble bursting?

Episode 334: The Wall, the Shutdown, & the Immigrant w/Matthew Soerens Jan 16, 2019

Confused about the current standoff in Washington over the president’s border wall? Matthew Soerens, U.S. Director of Church Mobilization for World Relief and National Coordinator for the Evangelical Immigration Table, is back to help us make sense of it all. He explains how the failure of immigration bills since 2013 got us to this place, and why neither Democrats nor Republicans are pursuing a common sense compromise. He also offers his thoughts on why so many Christians fail to see immigration as a biblical issue. Also this week: Phil pokes Mary Poppins, Trump is evangelicals’ Goliath, and the international competition to build the tallest Jesus statue.

Ep 333: Drew Dyck Disciplines Himself Jan 09, 2019

How’s your new year resolution going? Drew Dyck is back to discuss his new book about self-discipline—which we all need more of. Unlike other books on the subject, his combines biblical wisdom with the latest findings from brain science, and Drew used himself as a guinea pig for research. Also this week, a teenage biohacker injected himself with DNA coded from the Bible. Is the lost Ark in Ethiopia? And more evidence political identity is more important that religious identity for white Americans.

Ep 332: Responsibility, Regulation, & Rocco the Parrot Jan 02, 2019

Should social media companies be held responsible for the harm users inflict on their platforms? What about pharmaceutical companies marketing opioids? And gun manufacturers? Phil, Skye, and Christian get into a lively discussion about regulation and responsibility. Plus, can evangelical political engagement be explained by the 5 stages of grief? A new article argues white evangelicals will be politically marginalized by 2024, but they may continue to have a disproportionate influence. And a parrot named Rocco warms Phil’s heart.

Ep 331: The Church is Not a Corporation with Dave Gibbons Dec 19, 2018

Do your church leaders want to use you or equip you? Pastor and cultural architect, Dave Gibbons, joins Skye for a conversation about the future of the church. Having experienced everything from fundamentalism, to the seeker megachurch, and urban multiethnic ministry, Gibbons has an interesting take on where things are heading. Hint—its about launching people not institutions. Phil and Skye also discuss Andrew Sullivan’s new article in which he argues that America’s new religion of “progress” is an empty shell that has made our politics worse. Plus, scientists are implanting mice with human mini-brains. What could possibly go wrong? And Phil tries to convince Skye not to learn golf.

Episode 330: God & the Gay Bishop with Gene Robinson Dec 12, 2018

Nothing has caused more controversy among Christians in recent years than the advancement of LGBT rights and its implications for religious liberty. Is there a way forward that respects both sides? Gene Robinson, who was elected the first openly gay Episcopal bishop in 2003, and Skye discuss where they find common ground. Also this week, Phil responds to a California university’s “whiteness forum” that declared VeggieTales to be racist. And remember the 69-year-old Dutch man trying to legally reduce his age by 20 years? We have an update.

Episode 329: Are Missionaries Heroes or Villains? Dec 05, 2018

Last month American missionary John Chau broke the law by venturing to a remote island to share the gospel with an indigenous tribe who killed him. Phil and Skye unpack reactions to the story and what it says about our culture and how Christians now think about missionaries. Also this week, the “War on Christmas” has come to Idaho where a family is battling their neighbors over a live nativity scene complete with camels. Archeologists say they’ve found the ruins of an ancient city in Israel destroyed by a meteor. Is it Sodom? A church in the Netherlands is giving refuge to undocumented refugees with a never-ending worship service. And new research confirms social media is a major contributor to depression and anxiety.

Ep 328: From Exodus, to Exile, to Embrace—The Future of Christian Cultural Engagement Nov 28, 2018

Phil is off this week and Skye is traveling, so we have a special episode featuring a sermon Skye preached earlier this year at Mission Hills Church in San Marco, California. In the message, Skye looks at two ways Christians have viewed cultural engagement in the last century, and how both were rooted in fear and self-interest. He then explains a third, more faithful, option for those seeking to embrace the world with God’s love in the years ahead.

Ep 327: The Young and the Young at Heart Nov 21, 2018

A Dutch man is suing the government to legally lower his age by 20 years. He argues that if we can legally change our gender and our name why not our age? After decades of scandal, the Catholic Church thinks a Pokémon Go style video game is what it needs to reengage young people. Phil and Skye have a few other suggestions. New data says America’s youngest generation is less moral, more self-centered, but less self-aware. Plus, Drew Dyck is back with his latest book and media recommendations.

Episode 326: Eugene Peterson Paid Attention to God with J.R. Briggs Nov 15, 2018

He wasn’t a megachurch leader, nor was he a Christian celebrity, but a small church pastor with a love for the Bible managed to impact the faith of millions. This week we’re joined by J.R. Briggs to talk about the ministry and legacy of his friend, Eugene Peterson. Plus, Phil and Skye breakdown the midterm elections, why are racists claiming there’s a “white genocide,” and a Bible professor explains why Trump is not like King Cyrus in the Old Testament.

Episode 325: Guns in Church Nov 08, 2018

In the wake of the terrible mass shooting at a synagogue in Pittsburgh, more churches are debating whether or not to arm themselves in self-defense. Is armed security a faithful way to protect the flock, or do guns in church create more problems than solutions? Skye answers listener questions about the issue. Also this week, HBO wants to protect its actors from the harm caused by trivialized sex scenes while creating more shows that trivialize sex, new research on what makes for a happy marriage, and who stole a giant inflatable colon?

Episode 324: Is the Cross Divine Child Abuse? With Mike Erre Oct 31, 2018

Christianity teaches that Jesus took our sins upon himself and endured the punishment of death we deserve. Some critics of that view, however, claim a God who pours out his wrath upon his innocent Son is a moral monster. Friend of the show, Mike Erre, is back to set the record straight and explains what the “divine child abuse” critique of the cross gets wrong. Also this week, Christian and Skye try to explain anti-semitism to Phil, new research says evangelicals don’t have diverse friends but teenagers do, and witchcraft is on the rise among millennials. Thanks, Harry Potter.

Episode 323: (Not) Debunking the 81% with Katelyn Beaty Oct 24, 2018

Since the 2016 election the statistic that a record-breaking 81% of white evangelicals voted for Trump has been widely cited. But is it correct? Katelyn Beaty is back to unpack new research done by Lifeway and the Billy Graham Center on the issue, but does it really “debunk” the 81% stat? And why did so many white evangelicals pick Trump? Hint—it wasn’t because of abortion. Plus, Phil and Skye discuss why some Christian prayers are really incantations, and the risk of death by selfie.

Episode 322: Keep Christianity Weird with Michael Frost Oct 17, 2018

Much of the Evangelical Industrial Complex has been created to make Christianity relevant, acceptable, and attractive to our consumer culture. Author and missional expert, Michael Frost, says this is a mistake. Instead, we should be emphasizing our faith’s weirdness and call more Christians to be eccentric—literally “off center.” Also this week: Phil and Skye take on “The Good Place,” a TV show about heaven without God or religion, the UK’s Supreme Court rules in favor of a Christian baker, and (fake) butt news from a Hawaiian seal hospital.

Episode 321: Beth Moore gets Real, Lobsters get Baked, & Trump Prophecies get Roasted Oct 10, 2018

The gang’s all here for a potluck episode. Drug News: A restaurant in Maine has mercy on lobsters by getting them high on marijuana before boiling them alive, and Coca-Cola plans to sell marijuana infused drinks. #MeToo News: Beth Moore confronts the misogyny within evangelicalism and pays the price. Political News: Liberty University produces a film about a “prophet” claiming Trump will launch Nuremberg-style trials in the U.S. against liberal Satanists, and research shows evangelicals who attend church regularly are more politically moderate. Plus, Phil, Skye, and Christian answer your mailbag questions.

Episode 320: Human Dignity & Political Civility with Daniel Darling Oct 03, 2018

Human dignity is one of Christianity’s greatest gifts to the world, says author Daniel Darling. His new book pushes Christians to think beyond the “us vs them” tribalism of our culture, and calls us back to a prophetic posture of defending what’s right even when it means supporting the other political party. He talks with Skye about why churches have abandoned discipleship to the news media, and how short-term wins for Christians in Washington may lead to long-term losses. Also this week, there may be new evidence for the exodus, and why are millennial marriages so much stronger than those of older generations? Plus, Phil wants to create a “kindhearted terrorist organization” to stop Japanese blood babies, and is Christian becoming a Nazi sympathizer?

Episode 319: Rethinking America’s Definition of Freedom with Os Guinness Sep 26, 2018

Americans love freedom. We sing about it, demand it, and fight for it. But what exactly is it? Os Guinness says we’ve become confused about what freedom really means and argues our un-American and unbiblical vision of freedom may be our undoing. Phil and Skye discuss what it means for America to be a “potluck nation,” and what happens if someone brings poisoned chicken salad. Plus, how have corporations redefined Americans’ understanding of happiness? Get your star-spangled snorkel, it’s a deep dive into America’s values.

Episode 318: The Deeper Meaning of Nike’s Kaepernick Ad w/Drew Dyck Sep 19, 2018

Why did a pastor in Alabama cut up his Nikes during a worship service? Drew Dyck is back with Skye to talk about the controversy over Nike’s Colin Kaepernick ad, and why Americans now look to corporations rather than churches for moral guidance. Phil explores the resurgence of Black cinema, kindergarten pole dancers in China, and why sperm counts have plunged 60 percent. Plus, Phil and Skye plot a publicity stunt to become married Catholic priests.

Episode 317: Social Justice & the Gospel w/ Russell Moore Sep 12, 2018

What is the relationship between the gospel and social justice? Some Christians are stirring controversy with a new statement arguing curing social ills is a distraction from the church’s core mission to save souls. Dr. Russell Moore is back to discuss why this topic is rooted in America’s history of racism, and why those on the extreme right and the extreme left both get it wrong. Plus, millennial evangelicals are rejecting the Christian nationalism of their parents. And why are churches in Montreal in love with cheeses but not Jesus?

Episode 316: Embracing a Practice-Based Faith w/ Aaron Niequist Sep 05, 2018

Many Christians have elevated knowledge as the key to personal transformation which is why we’ve made sermons the center of many church gatherings. Aaron Niequist is back to challenge that assumption in favor of a practice-based faith. As a worship leader and liturgist, Niequist has discovered that transformation takes more than knowledge, and worship is more than celebration. Plus, Mike Pence offers NASA a space sermon, Phil found an atheist professor who says religion is good, and Christian slept in a Nazi bunker.

Episode 315: Learning to Speak God from Scratch w/ Jonathan Merritt Aug 29, 2018

Our culture is rapidly losing it’s spiritual vocabulary. Words like grace, virtue, sin, and righteousness have fallen out of use. Why does it matter? Because language shapes the way our brains work and how we see the world. Author and journalist Jonathan Merritt is back to discuss his new book about learning to use God language again. Plus, why are people getting plastic surgery to resemble Snapchat filters, and Phil is worried the world is running out of Japanese people.

Episode 314: Predestination Isn’t What You Think w/ Mike Erre Aug 22, 2018

Did God predestine every individual for eternal paradise or punishment before time began? It’s one of the most confusing doctrines of Christianity, but pastor, podcaster, and proud Buckeye Mike Erre is here to help us make sense of predestination. The problem, he says, isn’t the doctrine itself or the Bible, but our modern, individualistic way of reading it. Plus, a shark named Helen was stolen in Texas, manna is from Iran not heaven, and a survey by Captain Obvious finds non-religious people don’t talk about religion.

Episode 313: Christians, SCOTUS, & the Death Penalty w/ Rob Vischer Aug 15, 2018

Nestled amid the farms and wind turbines of Iowa, Phil and Skye are in Okoboji—the “Cancun of the North”—for their annual pilgrimage to the Okoboji Bible Conference. Joining them is Phil’s brother Rob, Harvard Law School graduate and dean of St. Thomas Law School in Minneapolis, to discuss how Christians should think about the Supreme Court, and what’s behind the Pope’s decision to oppose the death penalty in all cases? Plus, initial thoughts on the unfolding drama at Willow Creek.

Episode 312: When Certainty Becomes Sin Aug 08, 2018

Phil and Skye are at the Okoboji Bible Conference this week, so we have a special episode featuring a message Skye preached a few weeks ago at Wellspring Alliance Church. Based on John 9, Skye looks at why the most religious, most theologically educated people rejected Jesus. Drawing from research conducted by a psychologist in the 1950s, Skye shows that the more certain we are the more blind we become and why certainty, not doubt, is actually the opposite of faith.

Episode 311: Won’t You Be My Neighbor? Aug 01, 2018

The new documentary about Fred Rogers, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor,” has adults crying in theaters and has sparked a Mr. Rogers revival across the country. Skye is joined by co-host of The Movie Proposal, Josh Lindsay, to discuss the film and why it should be required viewing for everyone in America, and how Mr. Rogers should inspire Christians to worry less about being relevant and more about being kind. Plus, Josh recommends other inspiring and thoughtful films while Skye doesn’t. It’s a special Movie Proposal episode of the Holy Post.

Something Old:

Josh’s: Thin Blue Line: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096257/

Skye’s: Speed: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0111257/

Something New: Won’t You Be My Neighbor? https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7681902/

Josh’s Proposal: The filmmakers of Won’t You Be My Neighbor were wise to focus on the message rather than the man himself.

Skye’s Proposal: This film reveals why Christians, and evangelicals in particular, should be much, much less concerned about being relevant.

Something Borrowed: https://www.rollingstone.com/movies/movie-features/rob-sheffield-mr-rogers-doc-697288/

Something Blew:

Josh’s: Planet Earth: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0795176/

Skye’s: Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2314952/

Jason’s: https://twitter.com/garywhitta/status/1019759979916476416?s=21

Episode 310: Lessons From Recent Church Scandals Jul 25, 2018

Church scandals are nothing new, but why do they keep making the same mistakes over and over? Katelyn Beaty is back to dissect a few recent, high profile stories of churches mishandling accusations against leaders, and she offers lessons we can all learn from their mistakes. Plus, New Yorkers are appalled by a proposal to have men and women only days at a public beach, and what do fertility rates have to do with Millennials leaving the church?

Episode 309: Why “Find Your Passion” is Terrible Advice Jul 18, 2018

The gospel is about going to heaven when we die, right? Wrong. Christian and Skye discuss the many popular but false ideas about heaven, death, and the gospel in a new addition of “Christian Asks.” Plus, a liberal writer freaks out over the Supreme Court saying evangelicals want to control women’s bodies. Skye disagrees arguing he can hardly control his own. Phil unpacks new research that says “find your passion” is really bad career advice. And Christian has travel tips if you’re ever in Normandy—aka, the Mississippi of France.

Episode 308: The Evangelical Road to Trump w/ John Fea Jul 11, 2018

Some think Donald Trump’s record-breaking support among white evangelicals is abnormal, but not historian John Fea. He unpacks 200 years of American church history to show why so many evangelicals favored Trump over other conservative, Christian candidates. Plus, Phil, Christian, and Skye deconstruct Chris Pratt’s brilliant mini-sermon at the MTV Awards, and wonder why Christians in Nevada are supporting “America’s #1 Pimp” for the state legislature. It’s politics, Pratt, and pimps on the Holy Post!

Episode 307: The Supreme Court, the NFL, & Jordan Peterson Takes Over the World Jul 04, 2018

Christian’s back from France! Her report from Normandy raises a question: should old Nazi veterans be included in D-Day commemorations? The gang discusses the future of Roe v. Wade, and Phil (finally) offers his take on NFL players kneeling during the anthem. Plus, Drew Dyck is back with his review of Jordan Peterson’s best-seller, “12 Rules for Life.”

Episode 306: Cartoon Jesus, Miss America, & Women in Ministry Jun 27, 2018

What would (cartoon) Jesus do? Europe doesn’t have a great track record with cartoon depictions of religious leaders. Will an animated Jesus TV show for adults change that? The Miss America pageant announced it’s ending the swimsuit competition, so Phil explores how Christians went from denouncing the pageant in the 1920s to celebrating it by the 1960s. Finally, Skye responds to listener questions about worship and how he thinks about women in ministry.

Episode 305: French Stereotypes, #MeToo Pirates, & Bad Church Leadership w/David Fitch Jun 20, 2018

Phil offers an impromptu history of European banking while insulting the French. Skye reports back from Disneyland and the #MeToo renovation of Pirates of the Caribbean. Dr. David Fitch says evangelicals have gotten church leadership all wrong. Rather than a hierarchy or democracy he says we need a pneumatocracy. (You’ll have to listen to find out what that means.) Plus, Phil ponders new research that says your “butt brain” may help with memory.

Episode 304: How Did Christianity Become Immoral? Jun 13, 2018

What’s so special about January 10, 2013? That’s the day Skye believes Christianity ceased to be viewed as a moral belief system in the U.S. Based on his new article, he talks about the three factors that conspired to fundamentally shift the way nonbelievers see the faith, and why it requires a new approach to ministry. Plus, research says American atheists are more religious than European Christians, the opioid epidemic has reached mollusks, & Phil discovers we have a second brain—you’ll never guess where.

Episode 303: Gay Wedding Cakes, Testosterone, & Big Conversations w/ Justin Brierley Jun 06, 2018

Our friend from across the pond and host of “Unbelievable,” Justin Brierley, is back. He discusses why Christians are infatuated with Jordan Peterson, and why even secular Brits have given up on the New Atheists. Phil and Skye dissect the Supreme Court’s decision in the Colorado wedding cake case, and debate whether they’d rather be Mr. Rogers or Clint Eastwood after new research says testosterone is a barrier to faith.

Episode 302: Overreacting to Christian Purity Culture with Katelyn Beaty May 30, 2018

Some Christians are rethinking the “purity culture” of their youths, but are they going too far? Katelyn Beaty is back to talk about what’s good, and what’s not so good, about progressive Christians building a sexual ethic on consent alone. Plus, youth pastors don’t want to talk about science, Christians don’t want to talk about faith, and Phil wants to talk about frozen frog urine.

Episode 301: Pastors & Power with Jon Tyson May 23, 2018

How do we define success in the Christian life? Jon Tyson is back to talk about his new book, The Burden is Light, and how we’ve let American ideas of success warp our vision of faith and ministry. Plus, Swedes are stealing owls, Trump is making women into witches, and Phil and Skye talk about the Democrats’ “God Gap.”

Episode 300: Farewell, Phil Vischer Podcast. Hello, Holy Post. May 16, 2018

Phil, Skye, and Christian celebrate the big 3-0-0 by reminiscing about the launch of the podcast six years ago, recalling their favorite guests, and sharing how the world has changed since the show began. They also reveal the show’s new name, new theme song, and plans for the future. Don’t miss this episode!

Episode 299: What Americans Really Believe About God May 09, 2018

Christian’s back! And she helps Phil and Skye unpack new research on what Americans really believe about God, and you may be surprised to learn which Americans’ beliefs align closest to the Bible. Drew Dyck returns for his latest must-read book recommendations, Disney World cancels its annual Christian music concert, and Phil exposes New Jersey’s “pooperintendent” of schools.

Episode 298: Faith, Sexuality, & Gender with Preston Sprinkle May 02, 2018

Let’s be honest, our culture’s understanding of sexuality and gender is a hot mess. The moment you feel like you’ve got a grasp of the issues, everything changes again. Dr. Preston Sprinkle is back to help us make sense of the conversation and prepare us for what’s next. Plus, Skye reports on the meeting of evangelical leaders at Wheaton College, and Phil defends the legal rights of creative monkeys.

Episode 297: The Untold Origins of Religious Liberty w/Brandon O'Brien Apr 25, 2018

It's become a very contentious issue, but few Christians know the surprising origins of religious liberty in the U.S. Author and church historian Brandon O'Brien is back to talk about a little known Baptist leader who shaped the First Amendment. Plus, why are so many atheists joining the Alt-Right movement, and what should we do about sexist 1980's movies in the era of #MeToo?

Episode 296: Theology Mail Bag & Are Pastors Too Big to Fail? Apr 18, 2018

This week Skye answers theology questions from our Patreon supporters like, is social justice biblical? And, when did the “gospel” become about my salvation rather than the kingdom of God? Phil and Skye discuss the fragility of megachurches and whether some celebrity pastors have become too big to fail. Plus, Phil takes a journey through the digestive system of the African elephant.

Episode 295: Why is Politics Broken w/Jon Ward Apr 11, 2018

Jon Ward is the senior political correspondent for Yahoo News. He joins Skye for a conversation about what's broken with our politics, how to fix it, and the role of faith in Washington. Phil also unpacks new research on Christian nationalism, why is atheist Richard Dawkins worried about the decline of Christianity, and iguanas!

Episode 294: Did Noah’s Flood Really Happen with Dr. John Walton Apr 04, 2018

Our favorite Old Testament professor is back! Dr. John Walton has written a new book about Noah’s flood, and he comes to some surprising conclusions. Was there really a worldwide deluge, or was it a smaller, local event? Plus, Phil and Skye ask why Christmas is so much bigger than Easter? Did the Pope deny the existence of hell? And did Jesus break into a Pizza Hut?

Episode 293: The Danger of a One-Dimensional Cross Mar 28, 2018

Phil’s busy writing and Skye’s on vacation, so for Holy Week we’re posting a special episode featuring a sermon Skye preached on March 11, 2018. (Please don’t tell Read Schuchardt.) Skye looks at a dimension of the cross we often overlook and why the cross, not culture, is what unites the church.

Episode 292: Speaking Truth in the Age of Fake News w/Theon Hill Mar 21, 2018

Communications professor, Dr. Theon Hill, is back for a fascinating conversation about our post-truth, fake news culture. Hill believes for Christians to survive the deterioration of truth they should adopt the rhetorical strategies historically used by persecuted minorities including the black church. Plus, the gang discusses Evangelicalism. What is it? What was it? And what is the future of the Evangelical movement.

Episode 291: Country Music, Non-Discrimination, & Lizard Brains Mar 14, 2018

The country music industry lost its mind when conservative Mike Huckabee was appointed to the CMA Foundation board. Is it a sign that even red states are becoming blue? Christian campus ministries are being accused of discrimination because they want their leaders to be Christians. Plus, Drew Dyck is back with his best book picks, and the gang tackles mental health and lizard brains.

Episode 290: Is Podcasting Destroying Preaching? Mar 07, 2018

Communications professor Read Schuchard is back to tell us how podcasting is replacing, and hurting, the church. Why should we bother to show up on Sunday if we can get the sermon anytime/anywhere? Plus, the gang discusses a meeting of evangelical and Muslim leaders in D.C., and why are strippers so popular Chinese funerals.

Episode 289 - The Life & Afterlife of Billy Graham Feb 28, 2018

The passing of Billy Graham has triggered an avalanche of articles about the famed evangelist. Many are tributes but some are rebukes. Phil, Skye, and Christian try to make sense of it all and discuss why Graham was most often attacked by conservatives during his life but liberals after his death. And what will be the future of the evangelical movement he helped create?

Episode 288: Guest Drew Dyck on Billy Graham & Deep Work Feb 22, 2018

Is the passing of Billy Graham symbolic of the passing of American evangelicalism? Skye discusses that with Drew Dyck along with a new book about how social media does more harm than good. Plus, Phil and the gang talk about Christians giving a pass to Donald Trump, and why are so many more teens identifying as LGBT.

Episode 287: Theology Mailbag & Christians Say Dumb Things Feb 14, 2018

If you don’t believe in hell are you guaranteed to go there? Which view of the atonement is right? And can pastors who behave really badly be restored? Skye answers your theology questions this week, plus the gang discusses deadly Amish buggies, lady Doritos, and the latest ridiculous claims made by evangelicalism’s crazy uncles (and aunts).

Episode 286: Have We Gotten Heaven Wrong? Feb 07, 2018

Is heaven really the goal of the Christian life? Did Jesus really come to rescue us from an earth doomed to destruction? Skye and Christian discuss how many popular ideas about heaven are rooted in false beliefs from Greek and medieval mythologies rather than the New Testament. Also, Phil’s back to talk about beavers, monkeys, and religious liberty for Satanists.

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Episode 285: Why Churches Struggle with #MeToo with Katelyn Beaty Jan 30, 2018

Headlines erupted when an evangelical megachurch gave a standing ovation to a pastor who confessed to sexual misconduct with a teenager. Are evangelicals really that out of touch with the #MeToo movement? Guest Katelyn Beaty brings clarity and wisdom to the conversation. Plus, Botox for camels, the spread of Islam, and a brief history of chain migration.

Episode 284: Pot Churches and the Wall of Separation Between Church & State Jan 24, 2018

Should cannabis churches that claim marijuana is a sacrament be protected by the law? Why are megachurches so white, almost all led by men, and very unclear about their stance on LGBTs? Phil, Skye, and Christian unpack new research. Plus, Skye discusses what the “wall of separation” between church and state really means.

Episode 283: What's Going On With Evangelicals and Same-Sex Marriage With Jonathan Merritt Jan 17, 2018

Christian is back with Phil and Skye to discuss new research that says evangelicals aren’t as anti-science as we’ve been led to believe. Plus, Phil discovers something disturbing about avocados. Skye then interviews journalist Jonathan Merritt about the biggest stories of 2017—including the growing number of evangelical leaders now affirming same-sex marriage and the split between elite and populist Christians over Trump. Will these trends continue in 2018?

Episode 282: Telling Stories From the Middle w/Andrew Peterson & Chris Wall Jan 09, 2018

Too much artistic expression in America lives at the extremes - either completely secular or overwhelmingly, explicitly Christian. What about stories from the middle? Stories iIlluminated by the Christian narrative without being so, you know, “Christiany?” Singer/songwriter/author Andrew Peterson and his producing partner Chris Wall join Phil and Skye to talk about Peterson’s Wingfeather Saga fantasy books and the effort to bring them to the screen as an animated series. Plus… Phil and Skye discuss nostalgia for Christian pop culture, and a secret message from the past hidden in a very strange place. (No video this week - listen to it with your ears!)

Episode 281: From Pastor to Prisoner and Back w/Nephtali Matta Dec 05, 2017

This is our last episode for 2017… Phil is taking a break to focus on some writing projects... and the holidays with his family! This week! Phil and Skye talk about their biggest stories of the year and movies they’ve enjoyed recently. (Plus the movie Phil suggested to his wife that he now regrets!) Then they’re joined by Koinonia House Ministry Director Nephtali Matta, who shares his story of full-time pastoral ministry, followed by time in prison, followed by a new ministry to ex-cons after his own painful reintegration to society. Don’t miss it!

Episode 280: Vampire Churches and Hibernating Turtles Nov 27, 2017

What exactly are “vampire churches,” and why does Skye believe they’re sucking the life out of American Christianity? How can “effectiveness” and “ambition” be the enemies of ministry? And why can’t Phil stop talking about turtles?? Phil and Skye discuss Skye’s new book, Immeasurable. And turtles. This week on the podcast! (Due to a technical glitch, there is no video on YouTube this week. Terribly sorry. Picture us in your minds. Phil is wearing dark purple. Skye is bald. Christian is missing. Go.)

Episode 279: Mailbag Podcast Nov 21, 2017

It’s a pre-Thanksgiving mailbag podcast, as the gang sits down to answer your questions. From favorite Thanksgiving foods to thoughts about guns in church and the “Mike Pence Rule.” Plus… is Phil ready to give up on the label “evangelical,” or is he still holding onto hope?? Grab a turkey leg and listen in!

Episode 278: Writing Hymns & Singing Together w/Keith Getty Nov 14, 2017

Irish composer Keith Getty has been writing modern hymns like “In Christ Alone” for two decades, and now he’s written - wait for it - a BOOK! About singing! Keith joins Phil and Skye on the podcast to talk worship music, singing together, and how to stay focused on God when everyone around you wants another HIT worship song. PLUS - Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, Louis C.K. Hollywood has been behaving very badly, and Phil and Skye ponder if it’s a new thing, or a very, very old thing made visible in a new way. Come on along for the ride!

Episode 277: Throwback "Sticky Faith" with Guest Kara Powell! Nov 07, 2017

We’ve all heard the stats about kids leaving the faith when they head for college - but why? And what would have made their faith more “sticky?” Has anyone done any actual research on this? Kara Powell has! Fuller Youth Institute Executive Director Kara Powell joins the gang to discuss her research and her book - Sticky Faith!

Episode 276: Media, Mars & Read Schuchardt Oct 31, 2017

10 kids, no TV, no cell phone, no internet. Life with the Amish? A zombie apocalypse? Nope - just another day in the life of Read Schuchardt, a professor of media ecology who definitely practices what he preaches! Plus, Phil and Skye discuss a new “giant sucking sound” in American demographics and Phil, yet again, attempts to convince us we really, REALLY don’t want to live on Mars. This week on the podcast!

Episode 275: Christians and Culture w/Miroslav Volf Oct 24, 2017

So… Phil and a Croatian Protestant theologian walk into a bar…. Oh, you’ve heard that one? Author/theologian/Yale professor Miroslav Volf sits down with Phil to talk about Christians in culture and his new book Public Faith in Action: How to Engage with Commitment, Conviction, and Courage. What follows is a fascinating conversation about Volf’s arguments for religion in a globalized world, plus what discourages and encourages him about the North American church today. And how his fountain pen explains his view of God and Creation. He’s a bright guy and it’s a lot of fun! This week on the podcast!

Episode 274: Shooting the Breeze w/NT Wright Oct 17, 2017

Phil and Skye sit down with N.T. Wright for a fun and fascinating conversation with the world-renowned author and theologian. What does Wright think of the North American church? Why do modern gender issues remind him of ancient Gnosticism? Why is Phil singing show tunes to a famous theologian? What would Wright put on a billboard if he could require everyone to read one message? What is it he think kids Bibles get wrong that makes him want to write his own? All this and more! Plus… Bladerunner 2049 makes Phil think deep thoughts. And dogs are people too. Or maybe not.

Episode 273: Throwback W/Todd Komarnicki Oct 10, 2017

Phil interviews film producer Todd Komarnicki of acclaimed Elf fame about his experience as a Christian in Hollywood. This week on the podcast!

Episode 272: Immigration & the Church w/Liz Dong Oct 03, 2017

Liz Dong is two things that usually don’t go together - an undocumented immigrant AND an evangelical Christian. She’s also a immigrant advocate with World Relief, as well as a member of the Evangelical Immigration Table. Having read a piece she wrote for Time Magazine, we invited Liz to stop by the studio and talk about her life story and the issues involving DACA, immigration and the church. Plus, we pause for a moment to remember Hugh Hefner. Okay - that was long enough.

Episode 271: End Times, Football Protests & Toilet Money Sep 26, 2017

It’s a potluck podcast! Christians predict the world will end… last Saturday? Plus, the story of two committed Christians in the NFL, both philanthropically active, both known for taking a knee on the field. Yet one is a hero and the other a villain. We’re talking about Tim Tebow and Colin Kaepernick, and it’s a fascinating study of what the American Church values today. Oh yeah… and the Swiss’s toilets are full of money. No really. Money. This week on the podcast!

Episode 270: Imaginative Prayer w/Jared Patrick Boyd Sep 19, 2017

Do we spend too much time trying to know about God, and too little time actually getting to know God? Author, pastor and spiritual director Jared Patrick Boyd joins the show to talk about experiencing God through the practice of “Imaginative Prayer.” Plus, Christian is back from France and Phil’s got a bone to pick with an Emmy award-winning show. This week on the podcast!

Episode 269: Muslims and Christians w/Carl Medearis Sep 12, 2017

Do Muslims and Christians worship the same God? What are our differences? What do we have in common? Author Carl Medearis has been working and living among Muslims in some of the most dangerous places on earth for the last 25 years, and joins the podcast to tell us what he’s learned. Plus… white Christians are now a minority in America, and Phil and Skye discuss “The Nashville Statement.” This week on the podcast!

Episode 268: Parenting Q&A w/Elizabeth Smith Sep 05, 2017

Raising healthy, happy, godly kids isn’t easy. This week we asked you for your parenting questions, and invited family ministry expert Elizabeth Smith to join Phil to come up with answers!

Episode 267: Race in America Aug 29, 2017

Slavery ended in America with the stroke of a pen in 1865, but the 13th Amendment didn't end institutional racism. Not even close. Phil and his law professor brother Rob recently taught a class that touched on the Black Lives Matter movement, asking and attempting to answer the question, “Why so angry? Isn’t racism over?” Sure, the 19th century was tough. But what’s happened since then? Phil mentioned the class on a recent podcast, and numerous listeners wanted to hear more. So… here we go! From Reconstruction to Black Lives Matter, we take a look at the last 125 years of race relations in America!

Episode 265: Movies as Prayer w/Josh Larsen Aug 15, 2017

Are movies a form of prayer? Josh Larsen, film critic and host of NPR’s Filmspotting radio show and podcast, joins the gang to talk movies and his new book, Movies Are Prayers, where he looks at movies and finds in them classic forms of Christian prayer. Also - thoughts about Charlottesville, race, and in the words of one social critic, “What’s wrong with white Christians?” This week on the podcast!

Episode 264: Learning How to See w/James Gilmore Aug 08, 2017

Do you know how to see? Really? And how does “seeing” affect our faith? Best-selling author James Gilmore (The Experience Economy) swings by to talk about his new book, Look: A Practical Guide to Improving Your Observational Skills. Plus, the wedding of the future probably won’t be in a church, and may involve more than two people. And science disproves the Bible yet again! Or not. This week on the podcast!

Episode 263: Discipling Our Kids and De-Platforming Our Enemies w/Rob Rienow Aug 01, 2017

What do you mean my church can’t raise my kids for me?? Family ministry expert Rob Rienow joins Phil and Skye to talk about the importance of discipling kids at home, and gives practical advice for doing just that. Plus, what do Richard Dawkins and The Bible Answer Man have in common? They’ve been DE-PLATFORMED! And a new theory suggests our increasing political extremism may be caused - at least partly - by the decline of mainline Protestantism?? Crazy!!

Episode 262: ThrowBack Podcast W/Eric Metaxas Jul 25, 2017

Enjoy this throwback episode of the crew spending the afternoon with the NY Times bestselling author Eric Metaxas, author of Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet Spy.

Episode 261: Saving Your Kids From Technology w/Andy Crouch Jul 18, 2017

Is technology making it harder for kids to grow into healthy adults? Is there anything we can do about it? Author, thinker Andy Crouch stops by to talk about his new book, The Tech-Wise Family, detailing the impact technology is having on American families and what we as parents can do about it. PLUS - Social media messes up Eugene Peterson’s week, and, it’s finally happened! Video games are more satisfying than real life! This week on the podcast!

260: Dudes, Grizzly Bears, Hobby Lobby and Robots Jul 11, 2017

It’s a potluck podcast! A new religion is born in Louisville! Grizzly bears may be saved by… religious liberty laws?? Hobby Lobby makes an Indiana Jones-style mess, and, in a world where robots and automation are reducing the economic value and employability of millions of regular people, how should the church respond??

Episode 259: Evangelism 2.0 With Kevin Palau Jul 04, 2017

The Luis Palau Association has shared the good news with a billion people around the world, mostly through Billy Graham-style crusades. Starting in 2008, association president Kevin Palau set out to reimagine the traditional crusade for a new generation, dubbing it "Festival 2.0," and focusing on innovative citywide service initiatives that bring churches together with municipal governments to solve problems that affect whole cities. Kevin joins the gang in studio to talk evangelism, social engagement, Christian witness in a post-Christian city, and life as the son of one of the world's most famous evangelists.

Episode 258: Christians Behaving Badly w/Joey Svendsen Jun 27, 2017

Can Christians swear? Can Christians swear on a podcast? Can Christians swear on a podcast and find a big audience? Joey Svendsen, co-host of the “Bad Christian Podcast” joins the show to talk Christian cussing, evil Dungeons & Dragons toys and a life spent recovering from an overly legalistic past. Plus - Harry Potter turns 20, and overly legalistic Christians rue the day..

Episode 257: Space Worms and Post-Church Church w/Jo Saxton Jun 20, 2017

Our favorite Nigerian-British-Minnesotan author/speaker/thinker Jo Saxton returns to the show to talk about church and discipleship in an increasingly post-church world. If you’re in a community that doesn’t want church services at all, maybe tweaking your church service isn’t the right answer. But what is?? Jo describes experiments from Sheffield, England that she and others are now applying to the US. Plus, how denomination accurately predicts a pastor’s political affiliation, and Phil finds a story about space worms and can’t stop talking about it. Seriously. He can’t stop. This week on the podcast!

Episode 256: Dancing with Atheists w/Justin Brierley Jun 13, 2017

Engaging with the world’s leading atheists and skeptics can have an impact on your own beliefs. How so? Let’s ask Justin Brierley! Back from across the pond, our favorite British radio host and atheist whisperer describes how repeated run-ins with Richard Dawkins and other prominent skeptics have affected his faith. Plus Christians indulge in fake news and Orthodox Jews indulge in chicken swinging. Which is worse? We can’t say. On the podcast!

Episode 255: Christian Views on Climate, Consumerism & More Jun 06, 2017

Why do so many Christians mistrust climate change science? Does consumerism make us depressed? Is church good for your health? Phil brings in a whole mess of news items for this potluck podcast episode!

Episode 254: Rethinking Our Response to Abortion w/Angie Weszely May 30, 2017

Christians have been fighting to change abortion laws for decades now. What if the solution to abortion wasn’t in politics, but in the local church? Angie Wezsley joins the podcast to talk about her ministry, “ProGrace,” that seeks to change the dialogue about one of our thorniest cultural topics. Plus, pastor says, “I can walk on water,” crocodiles say, “No you can’t!" This week on the podcast!

Episode 253: Inside “The Bible Project” w/Tim Mackie and Jon Collins May 23, 2017

What if you could explain the Bible to the whole world? Visually? On YouTube? Timothy Mackie and Jonathan Collins are doing just that with The Bible Project, a theologically rich, crowd-funded visual guide to the Bible that has earned more than 23 million views on YouTube. We’re big fans, so we’ve got them on the show to tell us what they’re up to and what they’ve learned trying to explain the Bible to, well, everyone on Earth. PLUS - “faith-based” films. Does the label help or hurt Christian filmmaking? This week on the podcast!

Episode 252: Who is God? with John Mark Comer May 16, 2017

Who is God? No, really. This is the single-most important question determining how we live our lives, according to our guest John Mark Comer, whose book God Has a Name explores the nature of the God of the Bible, how we get him horribly wrong, and why getting him right is so vital. Plus… how do you know if you’ve left evangelicalism? And why was British comedian Stephen Fry just investigated for blasphemy??

Want us to send you the prologue to John Mark Comer’s book for free? Just click here:

Episode 251: Listener Questions Galore! May 09, 2017

Phil and the gang open the virtual mailbag and answer a host of questions from listeners. Will social media bring about a new Reformation? How do you know if a doctrine is “essential?” Does Skye have anything GOOD to say about the American church? Favorite faith films, and more! This week on the podcast!

Episode 250: What’s Wrong With Religion? May 02, 2017

Is religion good? Or bad? If we try to get rid of it entirely, does that help? Or just make things worse? And how do so many people get the basic message of Jesus so completely wrong? Today we dive into Skye Jethani's new book – What’s Wrong With Religion? – to wrestle with some absolutely fundamental questions about walking with Jesus.

Plus - education and church attendance might go hand-in-hand after all, and a great worship band might not be what your church needs most. Oh… and muddy jeans as a sign of the end times. Really expensive ones.

You can download the first two chapters of Skye’s new book for free by clicking here. Check it out! Tell your friends! It’s a fun read (with pictures and everything!) that could actually change your life, or the life of someone you love.

Episode 249: Marching for Science & Taking the “Benedict Option" Apr 25, 2017

As the culture moves further away from traditional Christianity, some propose Christians need to move further away from culture, taking the "Benedict Option.” Is a return to more communal Christianity the answer to what ails us? Also, Americans march for science and against… hmm… what, exactly? And Fox News has a moral crisis, but do conservative Christians care? This week on the podcast!

Episode 248: Veggies on SNL, “Seasonal" Eggs and Finding God in a Gorge with Paul Pastor Apr 18, 2017

Bob and Larry make a cameo appearance on Saturday Night Live and the Prime Minister of Great Britain gripes that her Easter eggs have been replaced with “seasonal” eggs! Plus Phil and the gang talk about hearing from God through quiet reflection with wood chopping Portland author Paul Pastor (not to be confused with Phil’s non-wood-chopping puppet Pastor Paul). This week on the podcast!

Episode 247: Christian Theater, Chuck Colson & Bad DJ’s w/Tim Gregory Apr 11, 2017

Skye and Phil sit down with writer, director and actor Tim Gregory to talk about his new Chicago stage play based on the life of - believe it or not - Chuck Colson! Plus Christians have some strange beliefs in the UK and what NOT to put in your DJ mix in the Middle East!

Episode 246: How Genetic Science Affects the Bible w/Scot Scot McKnight Apr 04, 2017

Were Adam and Eve the first people? Were they even real people at all? Should modern genomics influence how we interpret Genesis? Bible scholar and author Scot Scot McKnight joins the podcast to discuss his new book Adam and Genome: Reading Scripture after Genetic Science.

Episode 245: Confederate flags, terrorists and superhero armpits Mar 28, 2017

Should churches remove Confederate flags? Should Americans be more afraid of terrorists, ladders or husbands? Should Wonder Woman shave her armpits? It’s a potluck podcast as Phil, Christian and Skye bring the stories of their choice - and yes, things get a little nutty.

Episode 244: Cultural Lies, Human Longings & the Gospel w/Trevin Wax Mar 21, 2017

Skye steals Phil’s ukulele, sending Phil into an emotional tailspin. And Trevin Wax joins the podcast to talk about the lies we pick up from our culture, the longings we find beneath the lies, and how the gospel and the local church help us cut through the noise to offer real answers to our deepest longings.

Episode 243: Curiosity and the Christian Life w/ Barnabas Piper Mar 14, 2017

Is curiosity a threat to faith? Or is it actually a key attribute of a healthy Christian life? Happy Rant podcast host Barnabas Piper joins the crew to talk through his new book, The Curious Christian. Plus - evangelicals and discrimination, and Phil & Skye offer Russell Moore a job!

Episode 242: An Evangelical inside Obama’s White House w/Michael Wear Mar 07, 2017

At the age of 20, Michael Wear became one of the youngest White House staffers in history, working in President Obama’s office of faith-based initiative. Michael joins Phil and Skye to talk about life as an evangelical Christian in Obama’s White House and his hope for the future of Christians and political engagement. Plus, Disney ruffles feathers with gay characters. This week on the podcast!

Episode 241: Race! Religion! Trump! w/Theon Hill Feb 28, 2017

Why do black and white evangelicals see the world so differently? Race and religion in the age of Trump, with professor Theon Hill.

Episode 240: Does Christian Media Stunt Christian Growth? W/Melinda Schmidt Feb 21, 2017

Former Christian radio personality Melinda Schmidt joins Phil and Skye to talk about Christian radio, movies, TV, and whether Christian media stunts spiritual growth in the name of retaining an audience. Plus, The Atlantic writes about evangelicals losing jobs for opposing Trump!

Episode 239: Non-Christian Jesus Followers? w/William Dyrness Feb 14, 2017

Can a Buddhist follow Jesus and still be a Buddhist? What about a Muslim? Fuller Seminary professor William Dyrness joins Phil and Christian to talk about the “insider movement,” where people become Jesus followers without leaving their cultures and religious communities behind.

Episode 238: Power and the Church w/Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel Feb 07, 2017

What is “power?” Is it good, or bad? Is it worth pursuing? And what if the evangelical church is going about it all wrong? Pastor Jamin Goggin and professor Kyle Strobel talk power and their new book, “The Way of the Dragon or the Way of the Lamb.” Plus - horse diapers and religious liberty. No, really. This week on the podcast!

Episode 237: People Pigs, Christian Cinema & Rejected Refugees w/Drew Dyck Jan 31, 2017

It’s a potluck podcast as our friend Drew Dyck swings by for a visit and we tackle a bunch of stories! Could pigs have people parts?? Could there be great Christian movies Christians just won’t see?? Would Jesus send refugees packing? Plus Drew’s favorite snack food turns on him! It’s a sign of the apocalypse for sure!

Episode 236: The Power of Female Leadership w/Jo Saxton Jan 24, 2017

She grew up in London, has African heritage, and now lives in Minnesota! AND she co-pastors a church in a coffeeshop! She’s Jo Saxton, and she joins us to talk about her life in ministry and her book, “More Than Enchanting” - the value of female leadership in the world and in the church. Plus - which religious group is the most committed to their jobs? You’ll be surprised!

Episode 235: Was Paul a Sexist Jerk?? w/Brandon O'Brien Jan 17, 2017

Was the apostle Paul sexist? Racist? Homophobic? In other words, a real jerk?? Paul has been accused of many things, so Bible scholar Brandon O’Brien joins us to discuss his new book, “Paul Behaving Badly.” Plus, is a trip to Disney World actually a religious pilgrimage?? This week on the podcast!

Episode 234: TV, Star Wars & Lent w/Aaron Damiani Jan 10, 2017

How geography, TV shows and voting go hand in hand, how Star Wars got it’s mojo back by getting it’s religion back, and how Lent can change your life - with Aaron Damiani, author of “The Good of Giving Up: Discovering the Freedom of Lent.” This week on the podcast! Links: Star Wars - https://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2017/01/rogue-one-and-the-return-of-reverence TV Shows - http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/12/26/upshot/duck-dynasty-vs-modern-family-television-maps.html?nlid=65272790&nl_art=6&te=1&em_pos=small&_r=0#adventure_time Aaron’s Book - http://aarondamiani.com/resources/

Episode 233: Hell, Judgment and Holy War w/Joshua Ryan Butler Jan 03, 2017

What kind of God would send people to Hell? Judge people? Call for “holy war?” Portland, OR Pastor/Author Joshua Ryan Butler joins the podcast for a discussion of some of the more perplexing parts of Christian theology and his appropriately titled book, The Skeletons in God’s Closet.

Throwback: Episode 172: Dude Ranches in Texas with Guest Bob Roberts Dec 27, 2016

Muslim imams and evangelical pastors camping together on a dude ranch in Texas?? Some kind of bizarre reality show coming to cable this Fall? Nope! It’s the real life work of Texas megachurch pastor Bob Roberts - who joins us on the podcast to describe his unlikely and somewhat controversial role as a bridge between conservative Christian leaders and their Muslim counterparts.

Episode 232: New Trends for a New Year w/David Kinnaman Dec 20, 2016

Which religious group is the most educated? Are Americans more divided than ever before? When did “self-fulfillment” become our new religion? Leading Christian pollster David Kinnaman joins us for this year-end podcast to talk about trends shaping the culture and the church. (Plus his new book, Barna Trends 2017.)

Episode 231: There’s More to Worship Than God and Me w/Aaron Niequist Dec 13, 2016

Most modern worship songs focus on God or me. (Or God AND me.) Is there anything else we should be covering when we worship God? Former Mars Hill and Willow Creek worship pastor Aaron Niequist joins the podcast to talk about his adventures in seeking a bigger vision of what worship can be.

Episode 230: Movies, Movies, Movies! W/Josh Lindsay Dec 06, 2016

Podcast co-host Skye Jethani and Josh Lindsay are launching a new podcast about movies, so with Skye off in India, Phil and Christian sit down with Josh to talk movies and the new podcast!

Episode 229: Throwback - Cultural Christianity w/John Dickson Nov 29, 2016

Future grandpa Phil had to skedaddle off to Minnesota... So here's a throwback! Way back! All the way to 2014!

Phil and the gang are joined in studio by Aussie historian/theologian/apologist/former rocker John Dickson for a discussion of Christian culture in the US vs Australia and how to effectively engage the mainstream press, plus listeners chime in on the precise physiology of transgenderism! Hoo-boy!! It’s a party for sure.

Episode 228: What the Election Says About the Church W/Ed Stetzer Nov 21, 2016

Evangelical Pastor/Researcher/Commentator Ed Stetzer drops in for a very lively discussion of the impact of the recent election on the church, what we’ve learned about evangelical values, and whether the term “evangelical” has - or hasn’t - outlived its usefulness. Fun, fun, fun on the podcast!!

Episode 227: Going Small with Francis Chan Nov 15, 2016

Popular author and preacher Francis Chan walked away from his megachurch to try something completely different - a series of tiny house churches in inner city San Francisco. Why the change? And what can we learn from his big experiment in going “small?” This week on the podcast with Francis Chan - is the future of the church tiny??

Episode 226: Livestream W/Patreon Supporters! Nov 11, 2016

We're giving everyone access to the live streaming Q&A the gang did recently to discuss the election and other Patreon subscriber questions. These events happen every month, so sign up at www.Patreon.com/PhilVischer and join in live next month!

Episode 225: Exploring the Qur’an with Mark Robert Anderson Nov 08, 2016

Currently 1 out of 5 human beings revere a certain religious book, and it isn’t the Bible. Religious scholar and author Mark Robert Anderson talks us through the Qur’an… what is it? How do Christian approach it, and why does it matter? Plus Christian has gone crazy for the Cubbies and everyone is sweating the upcoming election!

Episode 224: What Did Jesus’s Death Really Do? With NT Wright Oct 31, 2016

Jesus had to "die for our sins,” right? But what does that actually mean? We mess up, God gets mad, so someone needs to pay for our sin or we can't go to heaven when we die? But what if our ultimate problem isn’t sin, and what if our ultimate goal isn’t heaven?? Egads!! World-renowned theologian N.T. Wright joins Phil and Skye to talk about his new book - The Day the Revolution Began: Reconsidering the Meaning of Jesus’s Crucifixion. No biggie… just the absolute heart and soul of the Christian faith!!

Episode 223: How Did We Get Here? A History of the Religious Right Oct 25, 2016

What really birthed the religious right? Why have black and white Christians swapped political parties over the last 60 years? Based on a class he’s teaching, co-host Skye Jethani takes us deep into the surprising history of 20th century Christian political involvement. It’s a fascinating journey you won’t want to miss!

Episode 222: Solving the Problem of Youth and the Church with Kara Powell Oct 18, 2016

Why are young people leaving the church and what are some churches doing that is helping them stay? Is it all about “hipping up” our churches with coffee bars and skinny jeans, or is it something deeper? Fuller Youth Institute director Kara Powell returns to the podcast to discuss her new book, Growing Young, and the surprising answers to one of our thorniest problems.

Episode 221: Learning How to Fail With J.R. Briggs Oct 11, 2016

Is the church in America obsessed with success? Do we sacrifice genuine growth to avoid failure? Pastor/author J.R. Briggs joins Phil and Skye to discuss the idolatry of success and his own journey in learning how to “fail well."

Episode 220: Making Disciples or Making Church - With Preston Sprinkle Oct 03, 2016

Does the way we do church effectively make disciples? New research says “not so much.” So what do we do? Speaker, author, and theologian Preston Sprinkle is back on the show to talk about new models for church and why we need them. What could church be? What SHOULD church be? This week on the podcast!

Episode 219: Bible Translations, Christian Radio & Praying for Atheists Sep 27, 2016

A Bible translation is frozen in time. Modern technology unlocks a scroll. Christian media is more popular than you might think. And a new survey shows Christians are bad at guessing which behaviors make our neighbors uncomfortable. This week on the podcast!

Episode 218: U2 Turns 40 and Atheist “Faith Healing” with Justin Brierley Sep 19, 2016

Everyone’s favorite band-made-up-of-Christians-that-isn't-a-Christian-band U2 turns the big 4-0; an atheist mentalist successfully replicates “faith healing” in a London stage show; British radio host Justin Brierley returns to the podcast to talk news from across the pond. This week on the podcast!

Episode 217: Dreams, Lions & Shallow American Theology Sep 12, 2016

Phil has a bone to pick! A hot new book encouraging Christians to “chase their dreams” drives Phil crazy and he just can’t stop talking about it. It’s a full-on rant! And all because Benaiah killed a lion (it will make sense after you listen). This week on the podcast!

Episode 216: Meditating on Scripture with Jan Johnson Sep 02, 2016

It’s time to slow things down a bit as we’re joined by Christian writer, speaker and spiritual director Jan Johnson for a discussion of right brain Christianity, meditation and her new book, Meeting God in Scripture - A Hands-on Guide to Lectio Divina.

Episode 215: Back to Church, Out of Prison, Off to Mars Aug 30, 2016

What events would bring the most people back to church? Which celebrity has Rick Warren’s book helped now? Are American Christians “persecuted” in their own special way? Are astronauts too boring for reality TV? And what failure of the church might be driving people to Donald Trump? Christianity Today editor Katelyn Beaty joins Skye and Phil to run through a grab bag of issues in this particularly nutty installment of the podcast!

Episode 214: American Politics and Christian Faith with Amy Black Aug 22, 2016

What can we learn from this crazy year in American politics? Is it ever appropriate for Christians to vote “none of the above?” How do our various Christian traditions shape our views of church and state? Author and political science professor Amy Black joins the gang for a rousing discussion - this week on the podcast!

Episode 213: Saving the Bible with Glenn Paauw Aug 15, 2016

Bibles have changed radically in the last 200 years as publishers have added more and more features and launched countless variations. But is this a good thing? Author Glenn Paauw believes our modernistic changes have radically altered the way we engage with Scripture, and not for the better. It's a fascinating conversation inspired by his new book, Saving the Bible From Ourselves.

Episode 212: Shifting Sands in the Culture Wars & Surviving the Election Aug 08, 2016

Democrats are talking about God and faith at their convention while the Republican candidate neglects the almighty in his acceptance speech and says absolutely nothing about abortion. What bizarro universe is this?? Plus, tips for surviving the election season, and listener questions for Skye about the nature of church. Today on the podcast!

Episode 211: Redeeming Work - Live from Okoboji with Tom Nelson Aug 03, 2016

Do churches put too little emphasis on what we actually do 9-5? Phil and Skye broadcast from a lodge at beautiful Lake Okoboji in northwest Iowa in front of a crowd of Iowan pastors! They’re joined by Kansas City pastor Tom Nelson, author of Work Matters, for a far-ranging discussion on the Godly call of all work and the damage done by a false sacred/secular divide and the separation of Sunday morning from Monday morning. This week on the podcast!

Episode 210: Returning to Hell with Preston Sprinkle Jul 26, 2016

Author, speaker and wonderfully-named Christian thinker Preston Sprinkle joins the crew to continue the conversation about what the New Testament does and doesn’t say about Hell. Plus we discuss Preston’s new book on discipleship in the church and a poll showing stark differences in views of our presidential candidates between white and black Christians in America. Another fun week on the podcast!

Episode 209: Pastors & Booze, Women & Work Jul 18, 2016

Alcohol and the church - now that hipster evangelicals have left teetotaling behind, is alcohol a growing risk for evangelical leaders? Plus Andy Crouch says “the culture” doesn’t actually exist. And Katelyn Beaty tells us about her new book, “A Woman’s Place.” Skye asks if it’s a cookbook. Katelyn hits him on the head. This week on the podcast!

Episode 208: Talking About Hell! With John Walton Jul 11, 2016

What’s Hell? No, seriously - what is it and why doesn’t it show up in the Old Testament? Is it different than Hades? Sheol? Gehenna? OT scholar Dr. John Walton is back to talk about everyone’s favorite place of eternal torment. This week on the podcast!

Throwback Episode 146: The Lost World of Adam & Eve Jun 29, 2016

Phil and the gang are out on vacation, so we’re repeating a classic episode. A discussion with Old Testament scholar and friend of the show Dr. John Walton about his book – “The Lost World of Adam and Eve.” Were Adam and Eve real people? Were they created immortal? And what’s with that crazy “No really – God made you from my rib” story? Worth a second listen!

Episode 207: “Confident Pluralism” with John Inazu Jun 28, 2016

No one seems to agree on anything anymore in America. Law professor and author John Inazu joins Phil and Skye to talk about living Christianly in a pluralistic society, and his new book, “Confident Pluralism.”

Episode 206: The Global Refugee Crisis With Matt Soerens Jun 20, 2016

There are more refugees in the world now than at any other time in history. World Relief’s Matthew Soerens joins us to talk about the crisis, the politics, and what we as the church can do about it.

Episode 205: Let's Talk about Daily Devotions! Jun 13, 2016

Devotions! The kind you might have in the morning! Or not. Phil, Skye and Christian talk about daily devotions - what they do, what works for them, what might work for you, too. Also, Mel Gibson is back, Baptists forget who they are, and adult baby diapers. Not adult diapers. Baby diapers. For adults. Yeah, we don’t get it either.

Episode 204: Apes, Atheists and Happy, Happy Christian Music Jun 06, 2016

Gorillas in Cincinnati! Atheists Find God! Christian music is relentlessly happy! Katelyn Beatty joins the podcast to talk through apes, atheists, and much, much more.

Episode 203: Bathroom Wars, Democracy and Cheese May 23, 2016

Phil and Skye are rejoined by old friend Drew Dyck for a lively discussion on the latest twists in the bathroom wars; whether or not American democracy is collapsing, and cheese. Yes, that’s right. Cheese. This week on the podcast!

Episode 202: Documentary Filmmaker Nathan Clarke May 23, 2016

Documentary Filmmaker Nathan Clarke joins the gang to talk about producing his short film “Bono and Eugene Peterson: The Psalms,” a beautifully shot account of the unlikely friendship between the 83 year-old Christian author and the U2 frontman.

Episode 201: Religious Liberty with Russell Moore May 16, 2016

Russell Moore is President of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention (I’m tired just from typing that) and - as of last week - a new “Enemy-of-the-Trump.” Phil and Skye talk to Dr. Moore about religious liberty and the thrill of being attacked by the Great Orange One on Twitter!

Episode 200: The Big 2-0-0!! May 09, 2016

This is it! The 200th episode! The one we’ve been waiting for for nearly, gosh, nearly 200 episodes! Phil and the gang answer tons of questions from listeners and viewers, plus a big announcement. Today on the podcast!

Episode 199: The Middle Class and American Greatness May 02, 2016

When people talk about "making America great again,” what dothey really mean? It usually boils down to the state of the middleclass and the American Dream of living better than our parents.That in mind, Phil dives deep into the thorny, thorny problem ofthe American middle class. Plus, Bono has advice for Christiansongwriters. Today on the podcast!

Episode 198: Religious Liberty and Bathroom Bills Apr 25, 2016

With “Bathroom Bills” popping up in numerous states and religious liberty battles all over the news, it’s time to dive into the deep end of our religiously litigious culture. Should Christian therapists be required to treat homosexuals? Does science curriculum undermine religious freedom? It’s a nutty time to be alive, and we’ve got some thoughts (well, mostly Skye) this week on the podcast!

Episode 197: Modern Art And Subversive Faith with Matt Milliner Apr 18, 2016

We live in an image-drenched culture. When is “breaking” culture a part of our Christian calling, and how does Christian faith equip us to subvert our image-saturated “Babylon?” Art historian Matthew Milliner joins Phil and Skye to talk art, consumerism, and “occupying the optocracy.” This week on the podcast!

Episode 196: Civil Disobedience With Katelyn Beaty Apr 11, 2016

When is it okay for Christians to disobey the government? Sure, Martin Luther King did it right. But how about Kim Davis? Christianity Today managing editor Katelyn Beaty joins Skye and Phil to discuss civil disobedience. Plus the “Fighting Missionary” gets put on the shelf in Washington State. This week on the podcast!

Episode 195: Atheism and Hemant Mehta Apr 04, 2016

Is atheism a religion? Blogger and YouTube personality Hemant Mehta, better known as "the friendly atheist," joins Phil, Skye and Christian to dissect some common claims about our non-believing neighbors. Plus Skye gets "profiled" at Disney World.

Episode 194: Easter Jedi and Christian Clichés Mar 28, 2016

It’s a very Jedi Easter in Wisconsin. Charging money for prayers can get you in trouble, plus popular Christian cliches we find all over the church but nowhere in the Bible. This week on the podcast!

Episode 193: Does Trump Show Us What We Really Love? Mar 21, 2016

How can a boat demonstrate the limits of democracy? Disney films promote the message that poverty is “just fine.” Plus does Trumpalooza reveal the real problems in the evangelical church? And what, if anything, can we do about it? This week on the podcast!

Episode 192: David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons Mar 14, 2016

New research by the Barna Group shows that Americans in increasing numbers view Christianity as unbeneficial and even dangerous to society. Barna president David Kinnaman and Q conference founder Gabe Lyons join Phil and Skye to discuss their new book - Good Faith: Being A Christian When Society Thinks You’re Irrelevant and Extreme. Plus reaction to recent Trump rally violence and the rise of American demagoguery. What fun!

Episode 191: Did Christians Create Trump? Mar 07, 2016

Did Christians make Trump? Is the religious right dead? Is the evangelical church splitting in two? A bizarre electoral season has the media - and evangelical leaders - desperately seeking answers.

Episode 190: Interpreting the OT and NRB Mar 01, 2016

Interpreting the Old Testament is easy, right? We just read our English translations, knowing that they say exactly what the original Hebrew said. Right? Dr. John Walton’s son Jonathan joins Phil and Christian to describe the work involved in digging into the original language as he and his father strive for the most accurate interpretation possible. Plus, Phil describes his fun fun trip to the National Religious Broadcasters convention.

Episode 189: America’s Best Days - Poverty By County Feb 23, 2016

Are America’s “best days” behind us? What makes some areas better at improving the lives of poor kids than others? Plus - capital punishment and the church, and the dangers of praying for atheists in England.

Episode 188: God and Genocide Feb 16, 2016

Is God a genocidal maniac?? OT scholar Dr. John Walton is back on the show, this time to decipher the OT’s stories of Israel’s apparent genocidal rampages against the Canaanites and others. Are we worshipping a lunatic? Or are we missing something in these stories? Fun for the whole family!

Episode 187: Superbowl, Ads, and Lent! Feb 09, 2016

How many Christians pray for the Super Bowl? Which Super Bowl ad offended abortion rights advocates? Plus - what do Americans like to give up for Lent and does it do any good? (Audio Only)

Episode 186: Politicians, Religious Freedom, Christianism Feb 02, 2016

Politicians talk about faith, pharmacists and Noah’s Ark builders fight for religious freedom, and Skye explains how “Christianism” could kill the evangelical movement. (And Phil gets to say “Bebbington’s Quadrilateral” one more time!) (Audio Only)

Episode 185: Beards, Chess, Aliens, and Trump Jan 26, 2016

Why are British pastors growing beards? Why can’t Muslims play chess? Why are all the space aliens dead? Why are there seven buckets of evangelicals? (And which bucket likes Donald Trump??) You’ve got questions - we’ve got answers! Sort of. (Audio Only)

Episode 184: Hezekiah, Satan, Pants, and King! Jan 19, 2016

King Hezekiah lives! Satan moves to Fox! Subways go “pants optional!” Plus Skye has some thoughts about Martin Luther King and the American church today. This week on the podcast! (Audio only)

Episode 183: American Politics Jan 12, 2016

This week’s podcast is audio only as we kick off a year sprinting toward the presidential election … While some believe the Republican party is in trouble, others believe the Democrats are facing even bigger, issues. Join Phil and the gang for a fascinating conversation about education, equality and politics in America!

Episode 182: Santa-Wheaton-Falwell Dec 22, 2015

Santa Claus is coming, Wheaton College is in hot water and Jerry Falwell Jr. is packing heat! Just another culture wars Christmas in America!

Episode 181: Race, Justice and the Church with Pastor Charlie Dates Dec 15, 2015

Racial justice, protest, and the role of the church. Chicago pastor Charlie Dates joins Phil and the gang to talk about race and the church!

Episode 180: Planned Parenthood and Police Protests Dec 01, 2015

Phil and Skye react to the Planned Parenthood shooting and protests against police violence in Chicago, plus the age-old question of “What is a religion?” has one women successfully wearing a spaghetti strainer on her head for her driver’s license picture! This week on the podcast!

Episode 179: Outrage and Grit! Nov 24, 2015

Everybody’s outraged! Trump is mad at Starbucks for those darn cups! Liberals are mad at Raven-Symoné for eating a sandwich! Students are mad at their schools for… well, for just about everything! And Skye says what we really need is a little more “grit.” This week on the podcast!

Episode 178: Paris, Violence, and Religion Nov 17, 2015

Phil and the gang react to the attacks in Paris, plus theories about the relationship between violence and religion, and a new - yet very old - religion is becoming the "religion of choice" for white supremacists.

Episode 177: Boycotting Starbucks and Buycotting Chick-fil-A Nov 10, 2015

Boycotting Starbucks and "buycotting" Chick-fil-A ... plus a new study shows that religious kids are cruel, heartless jerks and we should all be atheists. This week on the podcast!

Episode 176: Religious Freedom with Guest David Kinnaman! Nov 03, 2015

Which age group is most concerned about religious freedom in America? How many Americans want Judeo-Christian values favored above other views? Barna Research president David Kinnaman joins the gang to discuss the surprising findings of his latest study!

Episode 175: Halloween and Oprah on Faith?! Oct 27, 2015

Halloween gets thrown out of school, presidential candidates get invited to church, and Oprah makes a show to promote her version of "faith." (And tries to explain it to Stephen Colbert!)

Episode 174: The Future of Religion in America! Oct 20, 2015

New examples of religious people behaving poorly in not one but THREE major faiths! Gallup looks at the future of religion in America, and Skye thinks the church needs help thinking about work! This week on the podcast!

Episode 173: Who Are the Happiest Parents?! Oct 13, 2015

Audio only podcast ... Listener feedback from last week’s show, plus who are the happiest parents? And is your Christian school filled with Muslim students? You must be in the UK!

Episode 172: Dude Ranches in Texas with Guest Bob Roberts Oct 06, 2015

Muslim imams and evangelical pastors camping together on a dude ranch in Texas?? Some kind of bizarre reality show coming to cable this Fall? Nope! It’s the real life work of Texas megachurch pastor Bob Roberts - who joins us on the podcast to describe his unlikely and somewhat controversial role as a bridge between conservative Christian leaders and their Muslim counterparts.

Episode 171: "Sticky Faith" with Guest Kara Powell! Sep 29, 2015

We’ve all heard the stats about kids leaving the faith when they head for college - but why? And what would have made their faith more “sticky?” Has anyone done any actual research on this? Kara Powell has! Fuller Youth Institute Executive Director Kara Powell joins the gang to discuss her research and her book - Sticky Faith!

Episode 170: Presidential Debates, Christian Movies, and Beer in Church! Sep 22, 2015

Drew Dyck is back in town and joins Phil and Skye for a lively discussion about presidential debates (crazy), theology in Christian movies (weak) and beer in church (sinful?). And absolutely ZERO conversation about toplessness! (Amen!)

Episode 169: Toplessness and Faith in Science! Sep 15, 2015

Several news stories drag Phil and the gang back into discussions of male and female toplessness YET AGAIN. (Thanks, Time Magazine and French feminists!) Then attentions are turned to topics of science! Should all scientists be “militant athiests?” Does faith in science fill the same emotional needs as religious faith? This week on the podcast!

Episode 168: The End of Modesty Mayhem Sep 08, 2015

After two weeks of modesty mayhem, Phil attempts to wrap-up the discussion once and for all with some thoughts that hit him while he was (immodestly) taking a shower. Plus - that lady in Kentucky who is in jail for… you know… “the gays.” This week on the podcast!

Episode 167: Modesty, Mega-Pastors, and Muslim Prayer Rooms! Sep 01, 2015

Listeners get to chime in! Last week's stories led to lots of interesting conversation about modesty, mega-pastors and Muslim prayer rooms, so Phil reads your comments and the gang discusses! What fun!

Episode 166: Gender Neutrality, Christian Hospitality, and Televangelists! Aug 25, 2015

Gender "neutrality" on display in the streets of New York and the aisles of Target ... Christian hospitality put to the test at Orlando International Airport ... John Oliver "discovers" shady televangelists in America! What does it all mean??? Is it the END OF ... (well, you know.)

Episode 165: "Alone" with Guest Sam Larson Aug 18, 2015

Phil and the gang are joined by Sam Larson, the son of a regular listener and one of two finalists on the History Channel survival show "Alone." Sam talks about his experience on the show and the spiritual impact of 40+ days in the wilderness alone.

Episode 164: Football, Donald Trump, and Rob Bell! Aug 11, 2015

Can an atheist play football? Can a Christian back Donald Trump? Can Rob Bell still hold our attention? Plus, Skye riles up some listeners! This week on the podcast!

Episode 163: Law, Religion, and Music with Rob Vischer and Jimmy Needham! Aug 04, 2015

Skye and Phil are joined by legal expert (and Phil’s brother) Rob Vischer, and singer/songwriter Jimmy Needham for an audio-only episode recorded in Arnold’s Park, Iowa. Law! Politics! Religion! Live music! This week on the podcast!

Episode 162: Dogs in Heaven and a Baphomet in Detroit?! Jul 28, 2015

Do all dogs really go to heaven? Why is there a 2000 pound, 9 foot tall Baphomet in Detroit? And does our reliance on laws to control behavior spell - THE END OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION AS WE KNOW IT???

Episode 161: Greece, China, and Donald Trump! Jul 21, 2015

Greece is a mess! China is in trouble! Disney sacrifices it's values! Franklin Graham is at it again! And don't get us started about Donald Trump! It's a mad, mad, mad world!

Episode 160: Back to the Lost World of Adam and Eve! Jul 14, 2015

Dr. John Walton returns to the show to continue our prior conversation (#146) about Adam and Eve, based on his new book, “The Lost World of Adam and Eve!”

Episode 159: The Supreme Court, Same-Sex Marriage and More Movies! Jun 30, 2015

Big news! Big news! Skye Jethani actually went to see some movies! Oh yeah - and the Supreme Court made a decision about something or other. Much discussion ensues, this week on the podcast!

Episode 158: The Same-Sex Marriage Debate Jun 23, 2015

What do Franklin Graham, Tony Campolo, Tim Keller and the nation of Ireland have in common? They’ve all taken bold stands on same-sex marriage in the last month. From wholeheartedly embrace to all-out boycott, Phil and the gang talk through wildly varied responses to the same question.

Episode 157: Blockbusters and the American Way! Jun 16, 2015

Christian’s back from France! And dinosaurs stomp the box office, leading Phil to speculate about the growing influence of China on Hollywood blockbusters and how Hollywood, once the biggest proponent of “the American Way,” must cater more and more to sensitivities - and censors - of the the world’s fastest growing film market.

Episode 156: Godless in Dixie with Guest Neil Carter Jun 09, 2015

Phil and Skye are joined by Mississippi geometry teacher and atheist blogger Neil Carter ("Godless in Dixie") to hear his journey from evangelical to atheist and his experience rejecting faith in the heart of the "Christian South."

Episode 155: Mad Max, Feminism, and Underwear! Jun 02, 2015

Tomorrowland and Mad Max and feminism and gender-neutral underwear. Need we say more??

Episode 154: The Decline of Self-Identifying Christians May 26, 2015

Listener feedback on “modesty.” Is Phil a voice of reason? Or just another crabby old white guy pining for the past?? Plus Phil and Skye discuss the decline in self-identifying “Christians” in America. Bad? Good? Indifferent? This week on the podcast!

Episode 153: Waco, the Billboard Music Awards, and Youth Ministry! May 19, 2015

Phil finds connections between events in Waco, TX and the Billboard Music Awards, then guest Jim Walton joins the gang to discuss observations from 35 years in youth ministry plus his new work as an online apologist at the3rdchoice.org!

Episode 152: Corporate Worship with David Gungor! May 12, 2015

Is modern worship music contrived? Formulaic? Manipulative? NYC worship leader and indie/alt/liturgical artist David Gungor (The Brilliance) joins the gang for a lively discussion about the state of corporate worship in America!

Episode 151: 40 Days of Christian Media May 05, 2015

Are Christians leaving the faith “in droves?” Should Christians provoke? And the gang discusses Nate Fleming’s “40 days of nothing but Christian media” experiment!

Episode 150: Islam, ISIS, and the Protestant Reformation! Apr 28, 2015

"You say you want a Reformation ... " Is Islam in need of a reformation? Or is that exactly what is happening right now? How is ISIS similar to the Protestant Reformation? Plus listener questions!

Episode 149: Robots, Wedding Cakes, and Religious Freedom! Apr 21, 2015

Do robots need Jesus? Does Tennessee like the Bible a little TOO much? And more thoughts about wedding cakes and religious freedom!

Episode 148: Jesus, Bread, and Chocolate with John Thompson! Apr 14, 2015

Author/musician/entrepreneur John Thompson joins Phil and Skye to talk about his colorful history in Christian music, his new book Jesus, Bread & Chocolate and the artisanal movement and its impact on the church.

Episode 147: Indiana, Religious Freedom, and Pizza! Apr 07, 2015

Mayhem in Indiana! Gay rights and religious freedom and PIZZA! What’s it all mean?? Phil’s brother and legal expert Rob Vischer joins the gang to discuss the implications of a strange couple of weeks in the Hoosier state.

Episode 146: The Lost World of Adam and Eve! Mar 31, 2015

Old Testament scholar and friend of the show Dr. John Walton joins the gang to discuss his new book - "The Lost World of Adam and Eve." Were Adam and Eve real people? Were they created immortal? And what's with that crazy "No really - God made you from my rib" story? Sure to be a conversation starter!

Episode 145: Listener Feedback on "Christian America"! Mar 24, 2015

Last week’s show received so much feedback that Phil and the gang dip into the mailbag to share and discuss some of your thoughts about the role of Christianity in America, and what the phrase “Christian nation” may or may not actually mean. Hang on for some fun as listeners drive the agenda this week!

Episode 144: Magic in the Bible and Christian America! Mar 17, 2015

Is there "magic" in the Bible? Plus, a new book suggests that "Christian America" is not just a modern idea, but a modern idea invented by corporate America! This week on the podcast!

Episode 143: Space, Fajitas, and Applebees! Mar 10, 2015

Christian’s back! Evangelicals don’t like space! Science creates an amazing new drink and explains something Skye and Christian don’t want to discuss! AND - if your fajitas attack you during prayer, don’t blame Applebees!

Episode 142: Newsweek, the Bible, and 50 Shades of Grey! Mar 03, 2015

Is the Bible A) as messed up as Newsweek says it is and B) responsible for the popularity of 50 Shades of Grey in middle America? Plus, Phil finds a popular movie very disturbing, but it isn't the one you think!

Episode 141: Oscars, Islam, and Listener Feedback! Feb 24, 2015

Oscars, Islam, and listener comments with Drew Dyck joining Phil and Skye on this week's podcast!

Episode 140: The Islamic State, Iceland, and Thor! Feb 17, 2015

Half of Protestant pastors say the Islamic State is “true Islam.” While Muslims are being killed by Christians in central Africa and atheists in North Carolina, Iceland says, “To heck with it all! We’re going back to worshipping Thor!” Plus, an audacious claim that lynchings in the South were “religious rituals” practiced by Christians. It’s a mad, mad, mad world…

Episode 139: National Prayer Breakfast, Katy Perry, and Ken Ham! Feb 10, 2015

What do the Dalai Lama and Skye Jethani have in common? They were both at the National Prayer Breakfast last week! Stories from the prayer breakfast, plus Katy Perry hears from God and Ken Ham won't be taking a cruise anytime soon. At least not a Carnival Cruise.

Episode 138: Super Bowl Ads, Fairy Tales, and Christianophobia! Feb 03, 2015

Super Bowl ads make men cry, subverted fairy tales annoy Phil, and “Christianophobia” is now a real term with a new book to back it up! Drew Dyck joins Phil and Skye to discuss manly stuff like football, moral relativism and puppies!

Episode 137: Evangelicals, Newsboys, and Germans! Jan 27, 2015

What exactly is an evangelical? What does it take to turn a Newsboy into an atheist? And why can't the Germans figure out how to pee?? This week on the podcast!

Episode 136: Website Hackings, Muslim Prayers, and Oxford Press! Jan 20, 2015

French websites hacked and comedians arrested! Muslim prayers at Duke University and no pigs at Oxford Press! It’s post-Charlie Hebdo madness, dear listeners! Plus, the gang responds to your mail… all on the podcast this week!

Episode 135: Charlie Hebdo and the Christian Roots of Secularism Jan 13, 2015

2015 is off to a questionable start as the Charlie Hebdo tragedy in Paris inspires much hand-wringing in the media (think Bill Maher) and a lively discussion on the podcast about secularism, its Christian roots, and its shaky future in an increasingly Muslim Europe.

Episode 134: Goodbye 2014, Welcome 2015! Jan 06, 2015

Welcome to 2015! Skye, Christian and Phil are back talking about movies, worldviews and, you guessed it, the end of western civilization. Plus our friends at Barna Research give their top 10 trends of 2014!

Episode 133: Addressing Systemic Racism with Guest Theon Hill Dec 23, 2014

It's Christmas! Check out the new fun ways our atheist and satanist friends are celebrating Jesus's birth this year! Then Phil and Skye are joined by guest Theon Hill to discuss the church's role in addressing systemic racism in a post-Ferguson America. Atheists and Satanists and racists! Oh my!

Episode 132: To Interstellar and Beyond! Dec 16, 2014

It’s the most thought-provoking big budget film in a long, long time. Is it religious? Is it anti-religious? And why did one Christian blogger call it his new favorite Christmas movie? It’s Interstellar - Christopher Nolan’s $150 million musing on the nature of life, the universe and everything! (Note: This podcast does contain spoilers.)

Episode 131: Skye's Traveling Adventures and Listener Questions! Dec 09, 2014

Skye's back! We hear about his travels, plus open the mailbag and answer a bunch of questions from YOU!

Episode 130: Churchless with Guest David Kinnaman! Dec 02, 2014

David Kinnaman, president of the Barna Group and America’s foremost Christian pollster, joins Phil and Drew Dyck to talk about his new book Churchless: Understanding Today's Unchurched and How to Connect With Them.

Episode 129: Adventures in Teaching Kids with Guest Seth Cohen! Nov 25, 2014

Seth Cohen is a Christian educator who has run schools in inner-city Philadelphia and the Dominican Republic. He’s also a life-long friend of Christian Taylor! So Phil and Christian sit down with Seth to talk about his adventures in teaching kids, running schools, and following God.

Episode 128: Modern-Day Israel with Guest Dr. Gary Burge! Nov 18, 2014

Christians are supposed to be big fans of modern-day Israel, right? New Testament scholar Dr. Gary Burge joins Phil and Christian to discuss his thought-provoking and more-than-a-little-bit controversial book, Whose Land? Whose Promise? What Christians Are Not Being Told About Israel and the Palestinians. In the words of our friend Justin Brierley, “It’s sure to be a sparky one!!”

Episode 127: Violent Religion, Video Games, and Mars! Nov 11, 2014

Is religion inherently violent? Will video games in the future only make us angrier? Can evangelicals train lawyers in Canada? And why would six people go to Hawaii to spend 8 months in a plastic bubble? (The answer has something to do with Mars.) All this and more on the podcast this week!

Episode 126: Kentucky and Ken Ham's Ark with Guest Drew Dyck! Nov 04, 2014

The state of Kentucky is messing with Ken Ham's ark, and Berkeley students are messing with Bill Maher's commencement speech. Plus Malaysia bans Halloween for being (wait for it) TOO CHRISTIAN! And some final thoughts about the cautionary tale that is Mark Driscoll.

Episode 125: Puppies, Islam, and Legalism! Oct 28, 2014

An atheist calls Phil's work "contemptible" and then doesn't want to talk about it, then a Malaysian man in hot water for encouraging Muslims to pet puppies inspires a deeper conversation about legalism and the world's second most popular religion. It's sure to be a bumpy ride on the podcast this week...

Episode 124: Mark Driscoll, John Dickson, and Peter Enns! Oct 21, 2014

A bad week for Mark Driscoll. Hillsong Church doesn't want to talk about gays. Friend of the show John Dickson threatens to eat his Bible, and theologian Peter Enns wants us to take it less literally. Or seriously. Or something. On the podcast this week!

Episode 123: The Book of Job with Guest John Walton! Oct 14, 2014

Old Testament scholar and friend of the show John Walton wrote the book (well, 450 page commentary) on everyone's favorite book of the Bible, Job! What? It's not your favorite book? Well maybe it deserves a deeper look! Plus a report from the Department of How NOT to Share Your Faith.

Episode 122: Ben vs. Bill, "Christian" Harry Potter, and Atheistic Christianity! Oct 07, 2014

Ben Affleck takes on Bill Maher, Harry Potter converts to Christianity, and Frank Schaeffer (son of Francis) takes on Christianity Today editors whilst arguing for a new "atheistic" Christianity. It's crazy, kooky fun on the podcast! (And not a single butt joke.)

Episode 121: The History of Bob and Larry Sep 30, 2014

It's been an interesting week for Bob and Larry in veggie-land, inspiring Phil to tell the whole story of how he and his characters parted ways, and the many attempts made over the last decade to bring them back together. It's a story we guarantee you've never heard before!

Episode 120: Bad Behavior and Levitical Atonement with Camerin Courtney! Sep 23, 2014

Journalist/blogger Camerin Courtney joins Phil and Skye on the podcast to talk about men behaving badly in the NFL and on college campuses, plus an app that brings levitical atonement to a smartphone near you!

Episode 119: The NFL, the Dalai Lama, and Bill Maher! Sep 16, 2014

The NFL is having a bad week, no more Dalai Lamas, and Bill Maher goes on a pro-Christian rant?!? Truly the end of western civilization is at our door!

Episode 118: British Values, Neuroscience, and Discipleship?! Sep 09, 2014

Why is British PM David Cameron on a search for "British values?" What does neuroscience have to do with discipleship? And why is "chunking" Skye's new favorite word? All that - plus "fatal buttocks injections" - on this week's podcast!

Episode 117: The VMAs, Religion, and Marriage! Sep 02, 2014

It's been a year since Miley Cyrus made "twerking" a part of awkward dinner conversations everywhere, and Phil forced himself to watch the VMA Awards to see what the kids are up to this year. Plus, does religion actually hurt marriages? Say it ain't so, Joe! This week on the podcast!

Episode 116: Robin Williams, Mark Driscoll, Michael Gungor, and More! Aug 26, 2014

Phil has some thoughts about Robin Williams, plus the gang covers news stories suggested by listeners and responds to listener mail about the Mark Driscoll/Michael Gungor brouhaha!

Episode 115: The State of Evangelicalism with Guest Drew Dyck! Aug 19, 2014

Pastors go wild and singer/songwriters go theologically off the rails. Or do they? The strange cases of Mark Driscoll and Michael Gungor, and what they tell us about the state of evangelicalism. Drew Dyck joins Phil and Skye for the conversation!

Episode 114: Live from Okoboji with Scottie May and John Stumbo! Aug 12, 2014

Recorded in front of a very enthusiastic audience at the Okoboji Bible Conference in Arnolds Park, Iowa, this special episode tells the story of Phil's great grandpa and the founding of the conference with Phil's mom Scottie May, plus president of the Christian & Missionary Alliance (Phil & Skye's denomination) John Stumbo tells his incredible story and talks about the future of denominations.

Episode 113: Christian Films, Fact, and Fiction! Aug 05, 2014

Should Christian films be free? Should we ignore all scientists? Do religious children lose their ability to sort fact from fiction? And why is our favorite Satanist jumping on the Hobby Lobby bandwagon? This week on the podcast! (This episode was edited to remove a story that was later shown to be untrue.)

Episode 112: Kardashians, Comic-Con, and Charismatic Catholicism! Jul 29, 2014

Phil breaks down and says the word "Kardashian," girls at Comic-Con say "no touchy!" and an account of one woman's journey from Charismatic Catholicism to atheism to...? It's another fun week on the Phil Vischer Podcast!

Episode 111: NASA, Aliens, and Jesus Politics?! Jul 22, 2014

NASA is just dying to find aliens, a Texas pastor dies for a cause, recent polls tell us we're more liberal than Jesus, and Jews are surprisingly cool in America!

Episode 110: Oprah as God and Proud Whoppers! Jul 15, 2014

Oprah as God? Gay hamburgers?? The Earth's magnetic poles reversing??? SURELY the end of western civilization is upon us at last!!

Episode 109: Hobby Lobby Day! Jul 08, 2014

It's Hobby Lobby day! What's it all mean? All good?? Mostly good?? And would you rather sit with your own thoughts, or give yourself an electric shock? If you'd prefer the shock, it turns out you're not alone! This week on the podcast!

Episode 108: Fashion, Tattoos, HBO and the Rapture! Jun 30, 2014

Pastors talk fashion while Rome burns... Pat Robertson says, "No tattoos for you!" Even liberals don't want their kids marrying atheists, HBO has fun with the Rapture, and Neil DeGrasse Tyson says religion is killing science. Again. It's another wild week on the podcast!

Episode 107: Cultural Christianity with guest John Dickson! Jun 24, 2014

Phil and the gang are joined in studio by Aussie historian/theologian/apologist/former rocker John Dickson for a discussion of Christian culture in the US vs Australia and how to effectively engage the mainstream press, plus listeners chime in on the precise physiology of transgenderism! Hoo-boy!! It's a party for sure.

Episode 106: Transgender Issues and Christians on Campus! Jun 17, 2014

Time magazine says transgender issues are the next civil rights frontier, and the Southern Baptist Convention says, "No thanks!" Plus Christian groups get kicked off college campuses, and some lively feedback from last week's show!

Episode 105: To Drink or Not to Drink?! Jun 09, 2014

To drink or not to drink - Christians and alcohol. Plus ... Time magazine wonders if it's safe to send our daughters to college, and Canada wonders if it's safe to let Christians educate lawyers. Crazy times indeed...

Episode 104: Guest Justin Brierley on Boghossian vs. McGrew! Jun 03, 2014

Unbelievable radio show host Justin Brierley stops by to discuss his recent debate between Peter Boghossian and Tim McGrew, and the ever-so-slippery concept of "faith." Plus, Phil has more medical fun and gains sympathy for the "average" woman!

Episode 103: Alien Hunting and Arranged Marriages! May 27, 2014

Scientists campaign for more alien-hunting funds, Phil campaigns for arranged marriages and Skye campaigns for shorter sermons. Plus - guess which faith tradition has the hardest time retaining its children?? You'll never guess! So watch and/or listen to the show to find out!!

Episode 102: Rob Bell, Oprah, Harvard and HGTV?! May 20, 2014

Lots going on this week! Updates on Rob Bell and Oprah. Plus Satanists are in - and then out - at Harvard, and Christian twin brothers are in - and then out - at HGTV. Oh, and Phil has a run-in with six hundred women, a Victorian hotel, and a bat. (Not the baseball kind.) It is truly a mad, mad world!

Episode 101: Guest Drew Dyck on Yawning at Tigers May 13, 2014

Do you picture God more like a tiger? Or a kitten playing the piano on the internet? Friend of the show Drew Dyck returns to talk about his new book, Yawning at Tigers, and our tendency in the church to domesticate God.

Episode 100: Questions, Questions, Questions! May 05, 2014

It's the 100th podcast! Phil and the gang celebrate by putting on party hats and answering your questions! Lots and LOTS of questions! Grab your own party hat and join in the fun...

Episode 99: The Christian Movie Marketplace with guest Camerin Courtney Apr 29, 2014

British Prime Minister David Cameron and Louisiana try to out-Christian each other, and journalist Camerin Courtney joins the gang to discuss the state of Christians and all the Christiany movies we're supposed to really really like ("Heaven is for Real," "God's Not Dead") or really really hate ("Noah"). Can't we just go see the movies we WANT to see?

Episode 98: N.T. Wright and Christianity Today with guest Andy Crouch! Apr 22, 2014

Special guest Andy Crouch from Christianity Today magazine joins the podcast today to talk about the latest Christianity Today cover story on N.T. Wright. Who is this bearded British theologian, and why is he having such a huge impact on the church?

Episode 97: Peter Boghossian and the Reasonableness of "Faith" Apr 15, 2014

A few months ago Phil reviewed the new book "A Manuel for Creating Atheists" by Dr. Peter Boghossian, and took issue with Bogghossian's definition of "faith." Numerous supporters of the book engaged the issue, and a lively debate continued online for more than a month. Several defenders challenged Phil to have the author on the podcast to explain his position, so this week Phil is joined by Dr. Peter Bogghossian himself for a lengthy but fascinating conversation about faith, knowledge, and the "reasonableness" (or lack thereof) of Christian belief. Can a creator of Christian vegetables and an atheist evangelist get along for an entire hour?? Tune in to find out!

Episode 96: World Vision, Movies, and More! Mar 28, 2014

The gang discusses World Vision's controversial new policy. Then, the day after the show is taped and in the can, World Vision changes back. Oops! No time to retape, so we're a little out of date. But we also have a lively discussion about Phil's favorite recent movies and Skye's theology of work. No podcast next week as everyone heads off for spring break!

Episode 95: Westboro Baptist News and Guest Justin Brierley! Mar 24, 2014

Fred Phelps dies - will Westboro Baptist ratchet down the hate? And Phil interviews his new favorite radio personality from London, Justin Brierley, host of the wildly intelligent Unbelievable? Radio Show!

Episode 94: Ground Zero Cross Debate and Cosmos! Mar 18, 2014

Stephen Colbert wades into the Ground Zero cross debate, and Phil's got a bone to pick with the new version of the old Carl Sagan mini-series, "Cosmos." Can't we cheer for science without jeering at religion?? Really??? Is it THAT hard?!?

Phil Vischer Podcast Episode 94 Mar 17, 2014

Episode 93: Oscars, Dreams, and Lip Balm! Mar 11, 2014

Movies! Oscars! Dreams! Lip balm! And Skye gets called out by another Christian media outlet! Did he deserve it? Tune in and find out!

Episode 92: Religious Liberty and Artistic Freedom Mar 03, 2014

Wedding cakes for gay marriages and contraceptives for Christian craft stores. What would Jesus bake? And for whom? Religious liberty, artistic freedom, and ...the end of western civilization?!?

Episode 91: Democracies and Missionaries with Andy Crouch! Feb 24, 2014

Do you prefer your movie Satans with or without eyebrows? And journalist and author Andy Crouch joins Skye and Phil to discuss remarkable new research showing a direct connection between healthy democracies and Protestant missionaries. What?? Pith helmets and Bibles saved the world?!? It was the BEGINNING of Western civilization!!

Episode 90: Cadillac Ads and Anachronistic Camels! Feb 17, 2014

Is it wrong to go to church without your clothes on? Should more Christians be complaining about Cadillac's new TV ads? Do anachronistic camels disprove the book of Genesis? (If I had a nickel for every time I've said "anachronistic camels"...) You've got questions! We've got answers! This week on the podcast!

Episode 89: Superbowl Ads and Ham versus Nye Recap! Feb 11, 2014

Super Bowl ads and Ham-on-Nye wrap-up. Pat Robertson says Ken Ham needs to give it a rest - surely a sign that the end of western civilization is upon us!!

Episode 88: Grammys, Feminism, and Ham versus Nye! Feb 04, 2014

Grammys, gay, Beyoncé, feminism, Ham on Nye. Say no more. Western civilization.

Episode 87: The Future and What it Means For Us Today Feb 04, 2014

It's a book release party on the podcast! Skye's new book "Futureville" is out, and the ensuing discussion blows Christian's mind (Phil had already read the book, so his mind was pre-blown). Do we truly have a biblical understanding of the future? If we did, how would it change how we view our lives and our work here today? Don't miss it!

Episode 86: More Adventures in Atheism and Christian Radio Abroad?! Jan 20, 2014

Phil's faith adventure continues as viewers write in with questions, and atheists respond. PLUS - ever wonder what the difference is between Christian radio in the US and the UK? It's significant! (And it doesn't make us Yanks look good...)

Episode 85: Adventures in Atheism with guest Sarah Murdock! Jan 13, 2014

Phil describes his recent adventure in "Atheist-land!" A pastor decides to try atheism for a year, and is surprised to find hisdenomination doesn't want to keep paying his salary! And one of Christian's best friends stops by for a visit! Faith, fun and friends - all in one podcast!

Episode 84: A New Year of Religion, Philosophy and Bill Nye! Jan 07, 2014

Phil and the gang are back in the saddle for a new year! Christian had a BIG Christmas adventure, and became a Duck Dynasty stalker! Phil launches an online conversation with atheist author Peter Boghossian! The atheist church has a schism! Phil wonders what the difference is between "religion" and "philosphy?" And why on earth is Bill Nye the Science Guy headed for the Creation Museum? Clearly 2014 is already bringing us closer to the END OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION!

Episode 83: Duck Dynasty and the Person of the Year!? Dec 23, 2013

All heck breaks loose on Duck Dynasty! The Pope is Time's Man of the Year! Can Phil, Skye and Christian sort it all out? And then sum it up with a song?!? Tune in to this week's podcast and find out!!

Episode 82: Peter Boghossian, Atheism, and Epistemology! Dec 13, 2013

How to make an atheist in five easy steps! (Okay, maybe not quite THAT simple.) Phil and the gang discuss Dr. Peter Boghossian's new book, A Manual for Creating Atheists. What does he get wrong? Even more importantly, what does he get RIGHT? Is faith a "flawed epistemology?" Is it an epistemology at all? The answer may determine the fate of western civilization as we know it!

Episode 81: The Pope, Batman and Magic with Drew Dyck Dec 06, 2013

Is the pope going out at night like Batman?? And then Phil leads Skye and recurring guest Drew Dyck on a wild trip through recent kids movies and how the portrayal of "magic" and the supernatural has shifted from Christian, to modern, to post-modern. And sometimes back again.

Episode 80: Thanksgiving, Walmart, and Science vs. the Bible with John Walton Dec 02, 2013

Fisticuffs in Wal-Mart and drag queens in the Macy's parade - this is not your grandfather's Thanksgiving! Then Skye and Phil settle in for a return visit with OT scholar Dr. John Walton about Genesis 1 and the "war" between science and the Bible, after which Phil discovers that making up songs is really hard when you're short on sleep!

Episode 79: Sweaty Atheists and Drew Dyck on Generation Ex:Christian! Nov 25, 2013

Does God make atheists sweat?? Plus, guest Drew Dyck talks about his book, Generation Ex-Christian, and the reasons more and more Christian kids are walking away from their faith! Don't miss it! It may or may not have something to do with the end of Western Civilization as we know it!

Episode 78: Science, the Meaning of Life, and Stephen Colbert! Nov 18, 2013

A new TV show looks for "the meaning of life" in the scientific narrative, and Stephen Colbert points out the lunacy of their pursuit. Also, Phil and Skye dive into all the listener feedback from last week's podcast fun about gender, then even more fun with their ongoing discussion about the definition of the Gospel and the difficulty of sharing the Good News in an increasingly post-Christian West. Whee!!

Episode 77: Women, Christianity, and the Gospel?! Nov 11, 2013

Phil has an epiphany about western civilization - could Christianity have actually made the hyper-sexualization of women POSSIBLE?!? Skye and Christian are dumbstruck, but Phil presses on with his startling theory. And then Skye elaborates on the definition of "gospel," based on listener feedback from last week. Don't miss it! It's the most shocking podcast yet!

Episode 76: Religious Illiterates and an Evangelical "Hell House"! Nov 05, 2013

Britain is a nation of religious illiterates! Or so says the BBC. But what's the solution - religious instruction in public schools?? Then, in honor of Halloween, the gang discusses the peculiar evangelical outreach known as the "Hell House," and a pastor in hot water for building himself a 16,000 square foot house! (Wait - that last story isn't Halloween-related. Oh well. It's still a sure sign of ... THE END OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION!)

Episode 75: Religious Billboards, Christian Movies, and Japanese Youth! Oct 23, 2013

Religious billboard wars break out in Time Square! The group discusses two upcoming "Christian-ish" movies that have folks (and/or Phil) a bit concerned, and then talks through the moral, economic and spiritual implications of the collapsing interest of Japan's youth in ... um ... "physical contact" with the opposite sex. To put it another way, Japan is having no babies!! Is it Godzilla?!? Robots?!? And what does it mean for the future of (dum, dum, dum!) Western Civilization???

Episode 74: Disneyland, Vegas, Hobby Lobby and OJ Simpson! Oct 21, 2013

Phil goes to Disneyland while Skye goes to Vegas! Lively discussion ensues about gambling, Christian morality, and the ascendency of Halloween as Disney's new favorite holiday. Our friends at Hobby Lobby get into some hot Jewish water, and will OJ Simpson be America's next great televangelist??? It's surely the end of Western Civilization as we know it!

Episode 73: Christian Billboards and the Idolatry of Family Oct 14, 2013

Phil discusses the "state of the art" of Christian billboards before explaining his new conclusion that life is like a moving sidewalk. THEN the gang launches into a fascinating discussion - based on Phil's great uncle Einer - about the "idolatry of family" within the evangelical church and whether it's EVER appropriate to leave your family to do God's work. Fun, fun, fun!!

Episode 72: Politics, Atheism and the Pope! Oct 08, 2013

Are Christians hypocritical in our approach to politics?? Is atheism the next "gay marriage?" Are atheist "churches" a GOOD thing for Christianity? And WHO doesn't like the new pope?? Anyone?? No one?? Listen to the audio! Or watch the video show! Hurry - before Western Civilization comes to an end!!

Episode 71: Phil's Great Uncle Iner, Origins of Evangelicalism, and Louis CK's Musings on Emptiness! Sep 30, 2013

Watch your metaphors, Christians! We can be misunderstood! Phil tells the story of his great uncle Iner. If that isn't fun enough, Skye then explains the origins of evangelicalism and fundamentalism in America, and the gang discusses comedian Louis CK's recent musings about the "emptiness" inside all of us. Whee!!

Episode 70: Book Burnings and Crazy Evangelicals Sep 23, 2013

Crazy evangelicals take over America! Book burnings and a civil "holy" war erupt! Yes, Phil actually took the time to read "Christian Nation: The Novel," and he's ready to give a full book report. What are those crazy Christians up to now?!?

Episode 69: Miley Cyrus, Atheist Protests, and Christian America Sep 16, 2013

Miley Cyrus watch! What's the latest?? Inquiring minds want to know! Then the gang discusses atheist protests of the Ground Zero Cross, a new novel about the "disaster" that would befall America if Christians got their way, and a lively debate about the underrepresentation of Christians in American media and what - if anything - can be done about it. It is clearly the end-of-you-know-what-as-we-know-it!

Episode 68: Big Words and Post-Christian America Sep 09, 2013

Phil declares America "officially" post-Christian. Skye uses big words to confuse him. Christian laughs at them both. Then we discuss a piece Skye wrote recently about the overuse of technology in schools that some people just didn't get. Mostly because he wrote it as a satire about smoking. Yeah. All this, and the end of Western Civilization!

Episode 67: Guest Ben Howard Sep 03, 2013

Phil interviews Christian film executive Ben Howard (Facing the Giants, Fireproof, October Baby) to find out if there is, in fact, a Christian film business. Plus news about Miley Cyrus, life on Mars, and, of course, the end of Western civilization as we know it.

Episode 66: Parenting, Fear & the Iowa State Fair Butter Cow Aug 26, 2013

Moral decline and "hook-up" culture - debunked?? Parenting is hard, God doesn't want us to live in fear, and what on earth happened to the Iowa State Fair butter cow?!? It's the end of western civilization as we know it! This week on the podcast!

Episode 65: Guest Doug TenNapel -- Part 2 Aug 19, 2013

Duck Dynasty conquers America while Franklin Graham runs into trouble in Iceland. And then a lively discussion with Doug TenNapel (part 2) about the adventures of an outspoken Christian in a business that isn't at all fond of outspoken Christians. Are hillbillies the only ones allowed to believe in Jesus on TV? Can a famous evangelist's son actually hold to historical Christian teaching? In Iceland? What about a celebrated graphic novelist in Hollywood? All this and more on the podcast this week!

Episode 64: Guest Sara Groves Aug 12, 2013

Singer/songwriter Sara Groves and her husband Troy join Phil and Skye on the podcast this week to talk about Sara's career, her thoughts about worship music and Christian radio, the church they just bought, and the one song she wishes she never wrote! Plus, Phil tries to play a really out-of-tune ukulele!

Episode 63: Guest Doug TenNapel Aug 05, 2013

Censored hymns and Muslims writing books about Jesus - followed by part 1 of a 2-part interview with Christian comic artist, animator and creator of the classic video games Earthworm Jim and The Neverhood, Doug TenNapel.

Episode 62: Western Adventures, Christian Movies & Evangelistic Atheists Jul 29, 2013

Skye is back in town! We hear about his travels out west, then the group careens wildly through this week's stories about Christian movies, heaven, the end times, evangelistic atheists and, of course, gay rights. Buckle up for the ride!

Episode 61: Guest Sydney Vischer Jul 22, 2013

It's bring your daughter to work day! Well, not really - but Phil does anyway. His 16 year-old daughter Sydney has just released an album of thoughtful, acoustic songs, and she visits the podcast to talk about it and play a few live! (Check out Sydney Vischer on iTunes or SydneyVischerMusic on Facebook to see the whole album.)

Episode 60: Guest Steve Taylor Jul 16, 2013

Join Phil this week for an indepth interview with a personal hero - groundbreaking Christian singer, songwriter, producer and filmmaker Steve Taylor. From "I Want to Be a Clone" to the Newsboys and Sixpense, to Blue Like Jazz the movie, Steve has pushed the Christian narrative in new and amazing directions for nearly 30 years. Don't miss the conversation!

Episode 59: Guest Rob Vischer Jul 09, 2013

Phil's brother Rob joins him on vacation for a discussion of Rob's new book on Martin Luther KIng Jr., as well as lively discussion about atheist monuments, DOMA, the Supreme Court and the ever-perplexing concept of religious freedom!

Episode 58: Cruisin', MRIs, and the Supreme Court Jul 01, 2013

Skye goes on a cruise, Phil has an MRI, the Supreme Court ruffles some feathers and former Senator Rick Santorum - America's newest Christian movie mogul?!? Just another week on the Phil Vischer Podcast ...

Episode 57: Scottie May is Back Jun 25, 2013

By popular demand, Phil's mom Dr. Scottie May returns to the program to talk more about children's ministry and the place of kids in the church. Where has children's ministry been? Where is it headed? Don't ask Phil - ask his mom!

Episode 56: Super Telescopes, Man of Steel & Crazy Religion Jun 17, 2013

Alien-searching super telescopes? Man of Steel sponsored sermons? And what's a Christian to do when their faith is lumped in with "crazy religion?" Phil and Skye both have colds and Christian is out of town, but thought-provoking conversation still manages to occur. More or less.

Episode 55: Boy Scouts, J. Lo & Skye's Runaway Car Jun 10, 2013

Listeners chime in about the Boy Scouts leading to a deeper conversation about homosexuality and the church, Jennifer Lopez's new TV show, plus five supposedly "compelling" reasons marriage wasn't supposed to monogamous. (And we finally find out what became of Skye's runaway car!)

Episode 54: Guest Brian Howell Jun 04, 2013

Is the Pope spouting heresy? Should churches boot the Boy Scouts? And special guest anthropologist Brian Howell talks about his new book on the peculiar anthropological phenomenon known as the "short term missions trip." (We aren't kidding.) Check it all out on this week's Phil Vischer Podcast!

Episode 53: Happy Birthday to the Phil Vischer Podcast! May 28, 2013

Happy Birthday to the podcast! To celebrate the 1st anniversary of the Phil Vischer Podcast, Skye makes some funny voices, Phil gripes about celebrities and their ridiculous houses, and the gang covers the big news from the Boy Scouts as well as a surprisingly deep conversation about living the Christian life. Happy Birthday!

Episode 52: Switzerland, Stephen Hawking & did the Roman Persecution really happen? May 20, 2013

Skye returns from Switzerland with stories of fondue, then the gang jumps into a lively discussion of recent comments by Stephen Hawking and a new book claiming historical reports of Christian persecution in the Roman Empire were largely fabricated. Fun, fun, fun!

Episode 51: Brain Burps, Beiber & Guest Pete Leonard May 13, 2013

Phil has a brain burp in Dallas, Justin Beiber runs amok in Dubai, and special guest Pete Leonard roasts the world's best coffee - as a ministry! Only on the Phil Vischer Podcast!

Episode 50: Musical Theater, Falling Birthrates & The Decline of Secularism May 06, 2013

Is theater a form of religion? What does modern theater (Book of Mormon, et al) say about what we believe, and how can a Christian respond? And as if that isn't fascinating enough, the gang then jumps into a discussion of how some demographers are predicting falling birthrates across the modern world will result in A) economic catastrophe, and B) the decline of secularism! Hoo boy!

Episode 49: Guests Lisa Vischer & Amanda Jethani Apr 30, 2013

Christian takes over the show! Acting on a listener suggestion, she invites Skye's wife Amanda and Phil's wife Lisa to join her and dish on their husbands. Phil's and Skye's ears are burning!

Episode 48: Guest Mark Galli Apr 23, 2013

After a lively discussion of The Book of Mormon and the ever-increasing crassness of American culture, Phil and the gang are joined by Christianity Today editor Mark Galli to discuss his feature story on near-death experiences and their recent popularity in publishing!

Mark Galli is the editor of Christianity Today. He is the author of Chaos and Grace and God Wins.

Episode 47: Monkeys and Puppies and the End of Western Civilization! Apr 15, 2013

Monkeys and puppies and the end of Western Civilization! Phil overreacts yet again to the week's news, followed by a scintillating discussion about Stephen Colbert, great apes, and the war against religious faith.

Episode 46: Movies, Marriage, and the future of Western Civilization! Apr 08, 2013

The gang's all back together! Phil talks about the movies yet again, before a lively discussion about the state of marriage, family life, and the future of western civilization. What fun!

Episode 45: Recapping The Bible (Miniseries) Apr 01, 2013

With Christian away on vacation, Phil and Skye talk about THE BIBLE (the TV series) and all forms of changing marriage, both same-sex and... Jedi?

Episode 44: Live from Disney World Mar 26, 2013

Stuck in Disney World without Skye or Christian (poor Phil!), Phil goes solo with an extended excerpt from his recent comedy show dealing with, appropriately, Disney World and everyone's favorite Easter candy, marshmallow peeps!

Episode 43: A new pope! Mar 18, 2013

A pope! A pope! We've got a new pope! What does it mean to three Protestants with a podcast? We're not sure, but we talk about it anyway. Then Skye takes us through his thoughts on the Gospel - what it is and what it isn't, and how we sometimes get it completely wrong.

Episode 42: Jesus (TM), The Bible & Christian Music Mar 12, 2013

An Italian apparel company is granted a trademark to the word "Jesus," Mark Burnett's "The Bible" miniseries takes the History Channel by storm, and an impassioned plea for the death of "Christian music" gets Phil all riled up. All that, plus Skye walks out halfway through Phil's wrap-up song! It's a crazy week on the Phil Vischer Podcast!

Episode 41: The Oscars, Sesame Street, and the decline of Western Civilization Mar 01, 2013

Join Phil, Skye and Christian as they discuss the Harlem Shake and the decline of Western Civilization, plus a fascinating journey through gender issues in the Oscars, Sesame Street and beyond!

Episode 40: Atheist Church, Tim Tebow & the Boy Scouts Feb 26, 2013

A theme song sung by Yoda, then... church for atheists? And what do Tim Tebow, the Boy Scouts and Southern Baptists all have in common? Cap it all off with a wrap-up song that goes a little better than last week's!

Episode 39: A Potluck Podcast Feb 19, 2013

It's a potluck podcast! Skye talks about his "top secret" meeting in Washington DC and his trip to the Naval Academy before the gang takes a whirlwind tour through Christian rollerskating, fruitcake in the Ozarks, Valentine's Day, Pope news and TV preachers. Phil wraps it up with his worst summary song ever. Seriously.

Episode 38: Guest David Kinnaman Feb 12, 2013

Phil and Skye talk about Super Bowl commercials and pastors behaving poorly in Applebee's. Then they're joined by author/researcher David Kinnaman for a fascinating discussion about Christians and their views on religious freedom in America. Finally, Phil summarizes with a song. It doesn't go so well.

David Kinnaman is the president and majority owner of Barna Group. He is the author of the bestselling books, You Lost Me and unChristian.

Episode 37: Does God intervene in sports? Feb 05, 2013

This week's podcast discusses a new opera about the last days of, um, Walt Disney, plus the surprising number of Americans who believe God influences the outcomes of sporting events, an atheist mom in Texas asks Christians to keep their religion to themselves, and, what's this - a prominent gay rights activist and Chick-fil-A have become best friends?!? Is it a sign of the apocalypse?!?

Episode 36: Guest Scottie May Jan 29, 2013

Phil starts off the podcast by recounting his recent trip to a children's ministry conference, and singing a song he wrote for the occasion. The crew talks about a viral news story featuring Pat Robertson, before bringing in this week's guest - Phil's mom! Scottie May has her Ph.D in Christian Education, and teaches in the Christian formation ministry department at Wheaton College where she specializes in children's ministry. They discuss VBS, how to creatively engage children, attention spans, and how to be more reflective in worship.

Scottie May is an associate professor of Christian Formation and Ministry at Wheaton College. She has her Ph.D in Christian Education from Trinitey Evangelical Divinity School. Scottie's area of interest and expertise is children's ministry, and she has co-authored 3 books.

Episode 35: The Golden Globes, Gun Control and Louie Giglio Jan 22, 2013

Phil announces the launch of the all new JellyTelly, and the crew discusses the Golden Globes, euthanasia and gun control. They talk about Louie Giglio's invitation to pray at President Obama's inauguration, why he withdrew from the event, and then the gay rights movement. Are Christians becoming an oppressed minority?

Episode 34: Futureville, Hobby Lobby & a VBS Controversy Jan 15, 2013

In this week's Phil Vischer Podcast, Skye introduces his new book Futureville. They discuss the current conflict between Hobby Lobby and the new contraception mandate, which leads to a conversation about the role of government and civil disobedience. They talk about the "controversy" around the Neil Patrick Harris ad for the Super Bowl, and then a petition to designate the Roman Catholic Church a hate group. The podcast ends with a discussion about whether or not our churches, Christian radio, and Christian entertainment have become too "family friendly" and paint an unrealistic portrait of faith.

Episode 33: The Fiscal Cliff, The End Times & 2013 Predictions Jan 07, 2013

In this week's Phil Vischer Podcast, Phil, Skye and Christian discuss the fiscal cliff and the current political environment in the US. This leads to a conversation about the end times and interpreting the Scriptures based on our cultural context. Everyone gives their predictions for what will happen in 2013 - some of which are more serious than others! They end with a conversation on the Gospel and how we can engage with it more.

Episode 32: Guest Rob Vischer Jan 03, 2013

In the first Phil Vischer Podcast of 2013, Rob Vischer joins the crew to discuss Catholicism, the new "Queen James Bible" and the Boy Scouts. They also discuss the political tensions within the Catholic Church, and the changing tones of some Catholic and some Evangelical groups toward homosexuality.

Episode 31: Thoughts on Connecticut Dec 21, 2012

In a special episode, Phil discusses the events in Connecticut last week in the light of Christmas next week, and explains how the tragedy illuminates what even Christians have lost from the Christian narrative, and from Christmas itself.

Episode 30: Phil Has a Bone to Pick! Dec 18, 2012

The product placement bell gets a name on this week’s Phil Vischer Podcast, and Phil, Skye and Christian explain how they all know each other! Plus: atheist comic strips and a new Christian “sexy” t-shirt company?! AND Phil debuts a new segment called “Phil has a bone to pick!” ...all of this and more on the podcast!

Episode 29: Pink Legos, Santa Claus, and the Commodification of the Gospel Dec 11, 2012

**SPOILER: This podcast contains a discussion of Santa Claus, and therefore may not be appropriate for children.** This week’s podcast opens up with a discussion of pink legos, and whether or not churches should encourage belief in Santa Claus. Then Phil and the gang talk about consumerism vs. consuming, and how many churches have a tendency to commodify the Gospel.

Episode 28: Pat Robertson, Angus T. Jones, and Morality vs. Christianity! Dec 04, 2012

Phil, Skye and Christian discuss the latest from Pat Robertson and recent lashback about his show from Two and a Half Men star Angus T. Jones (who became a Seventh-Day Adventist!). Plus Phil reviews of Rise of the Guardians and the gang talks about criticism surrounding VeggieTales teaching morality more than Christianity.

Episode 27: Black Friday, Santa Claus, and the Demise of Guys! Nov 27, 2012

Episode 26: James Bond, the Rolling Stones, and Podcast Politics! Nov 20, 2012

Happy Anniversary! James Bond is 50, and so are the Rolling Stones! A conversation about whether or not the gang should address politics on the podcast turns into a thoughtful discussion about the relationship between Christians and democracy surrounding abortion and other issues. This week on the podcast!

Episode 25: Old News, the Supernatural, and Guest Darren Wilson! Nov 13, 2012

A throwback podcast! Recorded over the summer with filmmaker Darren Wilson, founder of Wanderlust Productions, the gang discusses old news items - from a Lady Gaga incident to Skye's interview with President Obama’s spiritual advisor! PLUS Darren shares some of his supernatural experiences that have inspired his documentary films.

Episode 24: Career Sports, Star Wars 7, and Hurricane Sandy Nov 06, 2012

Phil and Skye discuss the perils of career sports, Phil reveals his choice to direct Star Wars 7, and after a conversation about Hurricane Sandy, Phil and Skye debunk the idea that natural disasters are God’s punishment on mankind. PLUS Billy Graham removes Mormonism from his list of cults?!

Episode 23: Dragons, Halloween, and the Future of the Church! Oct 30, 2012

This week's podcast kicks off with a discussion on dragons, followed by Skye's take on Halloween! Can it be used for good? AND other news predicts satellite-driven mega-churches are the future of the church... Can it be true? Listen to find out!

Episode 22: Religion, Relationship, Science, and Creation! Oct 23, 2012

Skye shares his thoughts after returning from the Global Church Forum and then the guys answer listener questions - ranging from religion vs. relationship to science vs. creation! PLUS a discussion around a recent Pew study that says America is less than 50% Protestant Christian for the first time in history. This week on the podcast!

Episode 21: On the Air with Singer-Songwriter Andrew Peterson! Oct 16, 2012

Phil hosts the podcast by himself this week with special guest singer-songwriter Andrew Peterson! They discuss the path of Andrew's career, as well as his latest album, Light for the Lost Boy, his novels, and his online storytelling community The Rabbit Room.

Episode 20: Christianity in Hollywood with Guest Todd Komarnicki! Oct 09, 2012

BusinessWeek names the 50 best cities in the America! How does a city garner the title? And what's all the fuss about stay-at-home dads? The crew discusses this and more before Phil interviews film producer Todd Komarnicki of acclaimed Elf fame about his experience as a Christian in Hollywood. This week on the podcast!

Episode 19: Conferences, Spacesuits and the Hubble Telescope! Oct 02, 2012

Phil and Skye share conference experiences, singer-songwriters wear spacesuits, and What's in the Bible becomes a best-seller! AND the latest photos from the Hubble Telescope set off another discussion on faith, science, and atheism! Whoopee!

Episode 18: Free Speech, Faith, Science, and Christians in Hollywood! Sep 25, 2012

Free Speech + Faith = Riots? Will Science eliminate God? These questions PLUS a conversation about the portrayal Christians in Hollywood and the history of Christian art... this week on the podcast!

Episode 17: Christianity and Politics in the US with Guest Amy Black! Sep 18, 2012

Phil and Skye invite author Amy Black on the show to discuss her new book, Honoring God in Red or Blue! Before diving into the history of Christianity and Politics in the US, the crew shares their thoughts on Paranorman, the Real Life of Timothy Green, and more! This week on the podcast!

Episode 16: The "One," American History, and Guest John Walton! Sep 11, 2012

Phil and the gang discuss a new book that suggests finding “the one thing” you are meant to do or “the one person” you are supposed to marry! Then they move on to the historical belief some Christians hold that America has a special covenant with God! After discussing "the one" and American History, Dr. John Walton, an Old Testament scholar and professor at Wheaton College, joins the crew to talk about his books The Bible Story Handbook and The Lost World of Genesis One.

Episode 15: A Reggae Interlude and Conversations About Heaven! Sep 04, 2012

The show gets off to a Reggae-tastic start with a special appearance. Then the crew discusses a follow up question to the podcast with Rob Vischer – do we live in a country with freedom from religion rather than freedom of religion? This leads into a conversation about the often antagonistic relationships between atheists and Christians, and why Christians often don’t show grace to those who do not share their beliefs. Phil asks Skye about Heaven and whether or not we will “go to Heaven” or if Heaven will come to Earth.

Episode 14: Worship, Vices, and Virtues with Guest Brandon O'Brien! Aug 28, 2012

Can worship be addicting? The gang discusses why we need both corporate worship and individual communion. How do different cultures define vices and virtues? Brandon O'Brien joins the show to talk about our contextual biases in reading scripture - the subject of his upcoming book Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes.

Episode 13: The Olympics, Aliens, and Atheist Billboards! Aug 21, 2012

This week’s podcast opens up with a special guest – Sunday School Lady from What’s in the Bible? – talking about the end of the Olympics. Phil, Skye and Christian talk about Bill Gates’ initiative to invent the toilet of the future, the search for other intelligent life in space, and about the new billboards from the American Atheists for the upcoming political conventions.

Episode 12: Live from Arnold's Park with Guest Rob Vischer! Aug 14, 2012

Live this week from Arnold’s Park, Iowa! Phil’s brother, Rob, joins the crew at the Bible conference their grandfather founded. Rob and the gang discuss Chick-Fil-A, Wheaton College's lawsuit against the federal government, and anti-Sharia laws being debated across the country.

Episode 11: Chick-Fil-A, OIympics, and Guest Scott Olson! Aug 07, 2012

How does our society associate brands with personal identity? After discussing Chick-Fil-A and dreaming about Epcot, guest Scott Olson, CEO of International Teams, joins the crew to talk about the changing face of world missions and social justice.

Episode 10: Christian Retail and Punishment for Penn State! Jul 31, 2012

After Phil’s trip to the International Christian Retail Show, the gang discusses the current state of Christian retail. Moving on to current events, they touch on the tragic shooting in Aurora, Colorado and NCAA punishments for Penn State. Lastly, the crew responds to listeners' questions about dreams and calling!

Episode 9: Genesis and Origins of the Universe Jul 24, 2012

Listen to Phil’s first solo podcast – a monologue on the origins of the universe. Phil explains his lifelong interest in the interpretation Genesis 1 and creation.

Episode 8: Following Your Dreams and Ukuleles! Jul 17, 2012

What is the difference between following our dreams and God's dreams? Why do so many Christians fear insignificance? And how does that affect our idolatry of dreams? The gang discusses these questions and Phil responds to criticism about his ukulele in this episode of podcast! Don't miss it!

Episode 7: Drive-in Movies and Our Fading Love Affair with Cars! Jul 10, 2012

Phil and Skye talk about drive-in movies and young America’s fading love affair with cars. Phil is perplexed with PETA and they have a rich conversation around science and faith. This one is not to be missed!

Episode 6: Christian Tomatoes and Gender Roles! Jul 03, 2012

Phil Vischer, Skye Jethani and Christian Taylor talk about Christian tomatoes, TV theme songs and gender roles in movies.

Episode 5: Os Guinness Jun 26, 2012

This week's special guest on the Phil Vischer Podcast is Os Guinness! Os Guinness is an author, a social critic, and Senior Fellow of the EastWest Institute in New York. Great-great grandson of Arthur Guinness, the Dublin brewer, he was born in China in World War Two where his parents were medical missionaries. A witness to the climax of the Chinese revolution in 1949, he was expelled with many other foreigners in 1951 and returned to Europe where he was educated in England. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of London and his D.Phil in the social sciences from Oriel College, Oxford. Os has written or edited more than twenty five books, including The American Hour, Time for Truth, The Call, Invitation to the Classics, Long Journey Home, and Unspeakable: Facing up to the challenge of evil. His latest book The Case for Civility – and why our future depends on it was published by Harper One in January 2008. Previously, Os was a freelance reporter with the BBC. Since coming to the United States in 1984, he has been a Guest Scholar at the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Studies and a Guest Scholar and Visiting Fellow at the Brookings Institution. From 1986 to 1989, Os served as Executive Director of the Williamsburg Charter Foundation, a bicentennial celebration of the First Amendment. In this position he helped to draft the Williamsburg Charter and co-authored the public school curriculum Living With Our Deepest Differences. From 1991 to 2004 he was a senior fellow at the Trinity Forum, and a frequent speaker and seminar leader at political and business conferences in both the United States and Europe. As a European visitor to this country and a great admirer but detached observer of American culture today, he stands in the long tradition of outside voices who have contributed so much to America’s ongoing discussion about the state of the union. He lives with his wife Jenny in McLean, Virginia.

Episode 4: Guest Eric Metaxas Jun 19, 2012

Join The Phil Vischer Podcast crew as they spend the afternoon with NY Times bestselling author Eric Metaxas (Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy). Eric Metaxas is the author of the New York Times #1 bestseller, Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy, which was named “Book of the Year” by the ECPA. Bonhoeffer also won the 2011 John C. Pollock Award for Biography awarded by Beeson Divinity School and a 2011 Christopher Award in the Non-fiction category. Called a “biography of uncommon power,” Bonhoeffer appeared on numerous 2010 “Best of the Year” lists and was featured in the Wall Street Journal, Publishers Weekly, The New Republic, Harper’s, Kirkus (starred review), NPR, FoxNews, C-SPAN’s Book TV, Christianity Today, The Weekly Standard, and First Things. Metaxas was the keynote speaker at the 2012 National Prayer Breakfast in Washington DC, an event attended by the President and First Lady, the Vice President, members of Congress, and other U.S. and world leaders. Previous keynote speakers have included Mother Theresa, Bono, and Tony Blair. Metaxas is currently the voice of Breakpoint, a radio commentary that is broadcast on 400 stations with an audience of eight million. In 2011, Metaxas was the 17th recipient of the Canterbury Medal awarded by the Becket Fund for Religious Freedom. Previous medalists include Mitt Romney and Elie Wiesel. You can follow Eric on twitter @ericmetaxas

Episode 3: Lady Gaga and Guest Jed Macosko Jun 12, 2012

In Episode 3 of The Phil Vischer Podcast, the crew discusses pop culture and Lady Gaga before interviewing Wake Forest biophysicist Jed Macosko. Listen here or download from iTunes. Jed Macosko is a leading physicist at Wake Forest University whose dedication to making science more appealing to middle-schoolers and masters’ candidates alike has been celebrated by other scholars and the White House. With research interests spanning biophysics, thermodynamics and drug discovery, Macosko helped develop a video game that teaches middle school students advanced cellular science, and more importantly, how to love it.

Episode 2: Giant Movies and Jesus Popsicles Jun 06, 2012

Phil Vischer and Skye Jethani talk about The Avengers and movie making, discuss religious protest art and how to relate to atheists, and why it is important to read the Bible as more than just a guide for morality.

Episode 1: Freedom, Fear, and Futurism May 31, 2012

The inaugural episode of The Phil Vischer Podcast! Phil Vischer and Skye Jethani are your hosts for a fast-paced and often funny conversation about pop culture, media, theology and the fun, fun, fun of living a thoughtful Christian life in an increasingly post-Christian culture. The podcast is also available on iTunes. Let us know what you think!

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