Upstream

Did God Really Say Same-Sex Relationships Are Wrong? | Rebecca McLaughlin Jul 23, 2024

A cottage industry of authors and speakers has sprung up claiming that the Bible’s teaching on homosexual behavior has been misunderstood, and that Christians can affirm gay relationships. Shane welcomes author and apologist Rebecca McLaughlin to refute their most common arguments.

How Our Culture Punishes Parenting | Tim Carney Jul 09, 2024

Travel sports, stranger danger, busybody neighbors, housing prices, helicopter parenting, workism and more have conspired to make raising kids harder than it needs to be. Shane welcomes Tim Carney, author of Family Unfriendly, to explain where we went wrong and what a pro-family culture looks like.

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Show Notes:

Family Unfriendly: How Our Culture Made Raising Kids Much Harder Than It Needs to Be by Tim Carney

Related Episodes:

What Are Children For? | Shane Morris

What the Sexual Revolution Stole from Children | Katy Faust

You (Probably) Won’t Change the World in Your Twenties | Nathan Rittenhouse

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What Does it Mean to be ‘in Christ’? | Sam Allberry Jun 25, 2024

The term "Christian" is a rare one in the Bible. By far the most common way the New Testament describes followers of Jesus is "in Christ." Shane welcomes pastor and author Sam Allberry to explore the incredible meaning behind this mysterious phrase.

Is Intelligent Design Science? | Stephen Meyer Jun 12, 2024

Christians have long taught that God’s existence and power are evident in the world He has made. Yet secular, materialistic science says the universe looks exactly as we would expect if God didn’t exist. Shane welcomes philosopher of science Dr. Stephen Meyer in this interview from the 2023 Colson Center National Conference to explain why “the God hypothesis” is making a comeback.

*This episode originally aired on June 6, 2023.

Will AI Enslave Us or Deify Us? | John Lennox May 28, 2024

Artificial intelligence has advanced by leaps and bounds, raising questions about freedom, privacy, truth, and what it means to be human. Is the future utopian or dystopian, and how do the worldviews of AI creators shape their technology? Shane welcomes Dr. John Lennox to answer these questions using his book, 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity.

Where Should Babies Come From? | Matthew Lee Anderson May 13, 2024

Forty years ago, Anglican theologian Oliver O’Donovan published a prophetic critique of reproductive technologies, arguing that humans should be begotten, not made. This week, Shane welcomes Baylor professor and theology of the body expert Matthew Lee Anderson to introduce us to O’Donovan’s argument using an updated second edition of O'Donovan's book Begotten or Made?

Is Philosophy for Christians? | Ross Inman Apr 30, 2024

In Colossians 2:8, the Apostle warns us not to be taken captive by hollow and deceitful philosophy. Does this mean Christians shouldn’t seek wisdom outside or alongside of Scripture? To answer, Shane welcomes Dr. Ross Inman, author of Christian Philosophy as a Way of Life: An Invitation to Wonder.

Why Do Evangelicals Become Catholic? | Chris Castaldo Apr 16, 2024

The beauty, the tradition, the sense of authority and certainty about doctrine—these are some of the many reasons evangelicals join the Catholic Church. But are they making a fully informed decision? Shane welcomes Chris Castaldo, co-author of Why Do Protestants Convert? to offer a surprising answer.

How Christ Can Redeem Environmentalism | Andrew Spencer Apr 02, 2024

Evangelicals are often suspicious of the environmental movement because of its fatalism and worship of the earth. But what if Christianity is the best foundation for environmental stewardship? Shane welcomes Dr. Andrew Spencer, author of Hope for God’s Creation.

Andrew's book, Hope for God's Creation: Stewardship in an Age of Futility

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Get a copy of The Beginning and End of All Things: A Biblical Theology of Creation and New Creation at colsoncenter.org/upklinkresource.

Defy the Elites, Get Married | Brad Wilcox Mar 19, 2024

Whether from pop culture or politicians, corporate executives or mainstream journalists, Americans are bombarded with the message that marriage is outdated, inconvenient, and joyless. But statistics tell a very different story. Shane welcomes sociologist Brad Wilcox, author of the new book Get Married, to share the truth.

The Hope and Joy of the Colson Fellows | Michael Craven Mar 05, 2024

Something happens to Christians who join the largest worldview fellowship in existence. Confusion turns to confidence, fear turns to hope, and they discover how their lives fit into God’s grand story. This week Shane welcomes Michael Craven, dean of the Colson Fellows, to cast a vision for this remarkable and growing program.

How Pro-Life Can Win | Scott Klusendorf Feb 20, 2024

The overturning of Roe v. Wade wasthe beginning of a new phase in the fight for life. But every time abortion has been on the ballot, pro-lifers have lost. Shane welcomes Scott Klusendorf, who thinks most Americans have never truly been confronted with the powerful case for life.

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Fifteen years ago, when Roe v. Wade was still the law of the land, Scott Klusendorf’s landmark book The Case for Life helped state the case for the right to life of preborn babies. The second, updated edition meets the most current challenges to preborn life. Get the updated edition to learn to better communicate pro-life truths in this post-Roe world. Request your copy this month with a gift of any amount at colsoncenter.org/upcaseforlife

How Is A Human Like a Tree? | Joy Clarkson Feb 07, 2024

Some of our go-to figures of speech are mechanistic. We compare ourselves to computers that need to “recharge,” “process,” and “update.” But what if the Bible (and nature) offer better metaphors? To make that case, Shane welcomes Dr. Joy Clarkson, author of You Are A Tree: And Other Metaphors to Nourish Life, Thought, and Prayer.

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Fifteen years ago, when Roe v. Wade was still the law of the land, Scott Klusendorf’s landmark book The Case for Life helped state the case for the right to life of preborn babies. The second, updated edition meets the most current challenges to preborn life. Get the updated edition to learn to better communicate pro-life truths in this post-Roe world. Request your copy this month with a gift of any amount at colsoncenter.org/colsoncenter.org/upcaseforlife

Does My Job Fulfill the Great Commission? | Jordan Raynor Jan 30, 2024

Our divide between “ordinary jobs” and “ministry” and “mission” reveals a hidden assumption about the size of the gospel, and what Christ expects His people to do on this earth. Shane welcomes Jordan Raynor, author of The Sacredness of Secular Work to challenge that assumption.

How Feminism Unleashed Gender Chaos | Abigail Favale Jan 23, 2024

What is a woman? In this best-of episode from 2023, Shane welcomes Dr. Abigail Favale, author of The Genesis of Gender, to discuss how feminism, postmodernism, and bad philosophy made that question impossible to answer, and to show how the Christian vision of embodiment dignifies our differences.

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Claim your free copy of Don't Follow Your Heart for a gift of any amount to the Colson Center this month at colsoncenter.org/upwilliamsresource

Worshiping Yourself Will Make You Miserable | Thaddeus Williams Jan 16, 2024

You are basically good, and meaning comes from looking within and conforming reality to your feelings. This is the message shouted at us from every direction, but it leads to confusion and despair. Shane welcomes Dr. Thaddeus Williams to point us back to the truth using his new book, Don’t Follow Your Heart: Boldly Breaking the Ten Commandments of Self-Worship.

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Claim your free copy of Don't Follow Your Heart for a gift of any amount to the Colson Center this month at colsoncenter.org/upwilliamsresource

The Year That Made Us Modern | Andrew Wilson Jan 09, 2024

In 1776, America became an independent nation. But that year also saw the beginning of trends that would de-Christianize the West. Shane welcomes Dr. Andrew Wilson to tell the story of how this transformation took place, and to prepare Christians to outlast our secular age.

The ‘Aha’ Moment: Christianity Matters for All of Life | Christopher Talbot Jan 02, 2024

The concept of “engaging the culture” from a “Christian worldview” has been talked about for decades. But what does it mean, exactly, and how do we teach it? What are the benefits and potential pitfalls of “worldview talk?” Shane welcomes Christopher Talbot, co-editor of the new book, Christians in Culture: Cultivating a Christian Worldview for All of Life.

Finding Jesus in All of Scripture | Alastair Roberts Dec 26, 2023

On the road to Emmaus, the risen Jesus explained how the whole Bible foreshadows Him. As we celebrate Christmas, Shane welcomes Dr. Alastair Roberts to help us see how the birth of Christ fulfilled all of God’s promises to Israel—and to us.

The Neglected Theology of Food | Andrew Brumme Dec 19, 2023

From the tilled earth to the family table, every step of growing and preparing food was intended by God to teach us spiritual truths. Yet many of us have forgotten how to taste and see. Shane welcomes documentary filmmaker Andrew Brumme to reintroduce us to the sacredness of mealtime using Robert Farrar Capon’s classic, The Supper of the Lamb.

How Handel’s Messiah Brings God’s Promises to Life | Joel Clarkson & Gabriela Morris Dec 12, 2023

A German composer’s 1742 oratorio about the life and work of Christ has captivated audiences for centuries. But what makes Handel’s Messiah so powerful and unforgettable? Shane welcomes composer and writer Dr. Joel Clarkson, plus a special guest, to explore one of classical music’s greatest masterpieces.

What If We Truly Prayed Without Ceasing? | Douglas McKelvey Dec 05, 2023

Christ is sovereign over every square inch of human existence, but what about every moment of time? What would it change if we dedicated everything we do to Him in prayer? Shane welcomes Douglas McKelvey, author of the Every Moment Holy series, to introduce his latest book and explore the power of addressing God, together, as His people.

Is Theology Boring? | Trevin Wax Nov 28, 2023

The creeds of Christianity summarize the most paradoxical and surprising story the world has ever known. So why do so many find them boring? In this best-of episode, Shane welcomes Trevin Wax to explain why the core truths of our faith are an invitation to adventure, using his book, The Thrill of Orthodoxy.

Thanking God Without Idolizing His Gifts | Joe Rigney Nov 21, 2023

We gather at Thanksgiving to enjoy food, to count our blessings (including family and friends), and to express our gratitude to the Giver. But is it possible to love God’s gifts too much? Shane welcomes Dr. Joe Rigney, author of The Things of Earth, to explain how we should treasure God by enjoying our blessings.

Christ’s Presence in Our Pain | Joni Eareckson Tada Nov 14, 2023

What is the secret of contentment in all circumstances? The Apostle Paul knew it, and so can Christians who acknowledge God’s presence and seek His face. Shane welcomes Joni Eareckson Tada, herself no stranger to suffering, to share insights from her latest devotional book, The Practice of the Presence of Jesus.

Do We Treat the Holy Spirit Like God? | Costi Hinn Nov 07, 2023

He’s been described like a genie in a bottle, treated like The Force from Star Wars, and is sometimes simply forgotten. But the Holy Spirit is God, and learning to worship Him and recognize His work is central to Christianity. Shane welcomes Costi Hinn to sort truth from error using his new book, Knowing the Spirit.

A Jerusalem Pastor on the War in Gaza | David Pileggi Oct 31, 2023

The world is still reeling from the events of October 7, when Hamas terrorists attacked Israel and slaughtered over a thousand civilians. As war rages, confusion reigns in academia and politics over who is to blame and what should be done. This week, Shane welcomes David Pileggi, Rector of Christ Church Anglican in Jerusalem, to offer the wisdom of over forty years of pastoring a church in the thick of it.

Should Christians Tell Haunting Stories? | Ben Garrett and Brian Sauvé Oct 24, 2023

The world is filled with tales of ghosts, vampires, sea serpents, and all manner of mythological monsters. The secular mind dismisses these as superstitions, but should Christians? This week Shane welcomes Ben Garrett and Brian Sauvé, hosts of The Haunted Cosmos podcast, to explain how speculation about the spooky can glorify God.

Are We Souls? | Joshua Farris Oct 17, 2023

For most of history, nearly everybody has agreed that human beings survive the deaths of our bodies. But somewhere along the way, materialism rose to dominance, and we became nothing but bodies. What’s the truth? Shane welcomes Dr. Joshua Farris, author of The Creation of Self, to make a robust case for the soul.

Show Notes:

The critical theories that dominate our cultural vocabulary aren't “just” theories. They form an entire worldview that fundamentally contradicts the good, true, and beautiful worldview of Christianity. Neil Shenvi and Pat Sawyer’s latest book, Critical Dilemma, can help you understand and respond to the bad ideas of Critical Theory with discernment and truth. Request your copy this month with a gift of any amount at colsoncenter.org/upcriticaldilemma.

The Creation of Self: A Case for the Soul by Dr. Joshua Farris

Related episodes:

Why is the Cosmos Comprehensible? | Melissa Cain Travis

Does Creation Reveal a Creator? | Stephen Meyer

No Plato, No Scripture? | Hans Boersma

Synapses or the Soul? | Matthew LaPine

How Science Reveals (and Requires) God | Stephen Meyer

Loving Your Limits | Ashley Hales

A Temple, Not an Amusement Park | John Kleinig

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What is it About Music? | Various Guests Oct 10, 2023

Music has been a favorite theme on Upstream. Guests like Andrew Peterson, Jeremy Begbie, The Arcadian Wild, and David Radford of The Gray Havens have explored the mystery of music from artistic and academic perspectives. This week, we bring you the best of those episodes with Shane’s thoughts how they connect, and how God uses music in our lives.

What Critical Theory Gets Wrong—and Right | Neil Shenvi & Pat Sawyer Oct 03, 2023

Between Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech and the modern social justice movement, the definition of "justice" changed. But critical social theories are based on important truths, even if they mix them with lies. Shane welcomes Drs. Neil Shenvi and Pat Sawyer to identify those truths and lies using their new book, Critical Dilemma.

Why Are Churches Dying? | Michael Graham Sep 26, 2023

We're in the mist of the most significant religious shift in American history. Millions are abandoning organized Christianity, but there is little clarity about why they're leaving, or how to stem the exodus. Shane welcomes Michael Graham, co-author of The Great Dechurching, to offer data-driven answers and surprising hope.

Why Does Believing in God Feel Like Work? | Joseph Minich Sep 19, 2023

Atheists like to tell a story in which religion declined because of scientific evidence and arguments. But what if unbelief became a plausible option because of the way modern people work, live, and relate to the world, and the way these changes make us feel? Shane welcomes Dr. Joseph Minich to discuss his book, Bulwarks of Unbelief.

The Five Lies Coming for Your Church and Your Children | Rosaria Butterfield Sep 12, 2023

Homosexuality, “spirituality,” feminism, transgenderism, and more; an alternative creed is making inroads into Christianity and false claims on young lives. Shane welcomes Dr. Rosaria Butterfield, someone who once believed and lived those lies, to explain how God set her free and can do the same for anyone.

What Has the Internet Done to Our Brains ... and Souls? | Samuel James Sep 05, 2023

Christians often think of technology as morally neutral, but a closer examination shows that assumptions about the world and humanity are built into inventions like the internet. These “liturgies,” or repeated patterns of formative behavior, shape us mentally and spiritually in ways that contradict God’s design for us. Shane welcomes Samuel James to discuss his new book, Digital Liturgies: Recovering Christian Wisdom in an Online Age.

God Is Speaking ... If We Will Listen | Os Guinness Aug 29, 2023

A dandelion, a song, a mother’s love, even the reality of evil; God has used all of these to pierce the godless worldviews of real men and women. In this Upstream re-air, Shane welcomes Dr. Os Guinness to tell their stories using his book, Signals of Transcendence.

When Girls Decide They’re Boys | Katie McCoy Aug 22, 2023

We’re witnessing an unprecedented epidemic of teenage girls who want to change their gender and think transition will make them happy. What’s really going on, and how can Christians respond? Shane welcomes Dr. Katie McCoy to answer these hard questions using her new book, To Be a Woman.

The Whole Bible Is a Creation Story | Edward Klink Aug 15, 2023

When we hear pastors or theologians refer to “creation,” we assume they’re talking about the beginning of the world. But what if the whole story of Scripture is about the purpose, function, and glorious destiny of God’s handiwork—including us? Shane welcomes Dr. Edward Klink to discuss his book, The Beginning and End of All Things: A Biblical Theology of Creation and New Creation.

You Were Created to Create! | Brian Brown Aug 08, 2023

When God created humans in His image, He gave us a mandate: to imitate His work by bringing beauty, order, art, and cultureinto the world. This has implications for our relationship with time, space, matter, language, each other, and God. To explain, Shane welcomes Brian Brown, co-editor of an eye-opening new book called Why We Create.

Mistakes We Make When We 'Engage the Culture' | Justin Bailey Aug 01, 2023

Christians easily fall into the habit of treating culture as something “out there,” distinct from us and potentially corrupting or dangerous. But what if we are a part of that culture, and what if conflict isn’t the only or best way to understand our role in shaping culture? Shane welcomes Dr. Justin Bailey to discuss his latest book, Interpreting Your World: Five Lenses for Engaging Theology and Culture.

World-Changing Christians You’ve Never Heard Of | Glenn Sunshine Jul 25, 2023

A Viking who sailed to America, a prisoner who transformed an African kingdom, the daughter-in-law of Genghis Khan—what do all of these people have in common? Surprisingly, belief in Christ. Shane welcomes Dr. Glenn Sunshine to talk about his new book, 32 Christians Who Changed Their World.

How Sex Unlocks the Meaning of the Universe | Joshua Butler Jul 18, 2023

Creation is bursting with Divine symbolism, especially where opposites unite—and nowhere do we find a more profound, sacred, or fruitful symbolism than in sex. Shane welcomes Joshua Butler, author of Beautiful Union, to explore how God’s vision for the one flesh relationship displays deep mysteries about creation and its Creator.

Why Is the Cosmos Comprehensible? | Melissa Cain Travis Jul 11, 2023

Contrary to secular mythology, the pioneers of modern astronomy believed they were “thinking God’s thoughts after Him.” In fact, this belief was essential to their discoveries! Shane welcomes Dr. Melissa Cain Travis to explain why Christian convictions led to the scientific revolution and can help us see the stars as they truly are.

Further Upstream - How Do Westerners Give Their Lives for Christ? Jul 07, 2023

Most of us will never have to choose between death and denying Jesus. So what does martyrdom mean for us? Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to reflect on the conversation with Jerry Pattengale about The New Book of Christian Martyrs.

How the Martyrs Can Prepare Us for Persecution | Jerry Pattengale Jul 04, 2023

Four-hundred and fifty years ago, John Foxe published his famous Book of Martyrs. But more Christians died for their faith in the last century than in the previous nineteen combined. Shane welcomes Dr. Jerry Pattengale to tell the stories of those who’ve confessed Christ to the end, using his The New Book of Christian Martyrs.

A Christian Exodus from Public Schools? | Larry Taylor Jun 27, 2023

We’re witnessing a groundswell of demand to create viable, Christian alternatives to the American public school system, but is there room for everyone? Shane welcomes Dr. Larry Taylor, president of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) to sketch an exciting future for education.

Further Upstream - Why Tim Keller Caught Skeptics Off Guard Jun 23, 2023

Shane welcomes Tim Padgett to explore the distinctive approach to apologetics and evangelism that set Tim Keller apart and sometimes made him controversial. He subverted expectations, but how do we balance winsomeness toward outsiders with fidelity to our countercultural Christian convictions?

The Beliefs that Made Tim Keller | Collin Hansen Jun 20, 2023

Last month, pastor-theologian Timothy Keller went home to the Lord. His ministry was filled with incredible successes and unexpected controversies, and raises questions about how Christians should engage our post-Christian culture. Shane welcomes Collin Hansen, author of Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation.

Further Upstream - Good Creation Theology Can Save Your Faith Jun 16, 2023

In his latest songs, Josh Bales meditates on doubt, deconstruction, and the glory we were created for. Shane welcomes Tim Padgett to discuss how understanding our high calling as humans can direct our search for God and truth.

Singing the Weight of Glory | Josh Bales Jun 13, 2023

Human beings are fallen, sinful, and broken, but that’s not where the story began. Shane welcomes singer-songwriter, priest, and Licensed Mental Health Counselor Josh Bales to explain the importance of telling the full story of redemption, using his new EP, The Weight of Glory.

Does Creation Reveal a Creator? | Stephen Meyer Jun 06, 2023

Christians have long taught that God’s existence and power are evident in the world He has made. Yet secular, materialistic science says the universe looks exactly as we would expect if God didn’t exist. Shane welcomes philosopher of science Dr. Stephen Meyer at the 2023 Colson Center National Conference to explain why “the God hypothesis” is making a comeback.

Further Upstream - A Christian View of Nature Jun 02, 2023

Progressive environmentalists seem to worship nature and treat human beings like vermin. But conservative Christians often fall into the opposite trap of downplaying human responsibility to care for God’s world. Shane welcomes Tim Padgett to talk more about Christianity and the environment.

Does God Care About the Environment? | Xandra Carroll May 30, 2023

Many Christians view concern for nature as a secular, left-wing obsession. But if God loves the world He made and cares about its wellbeing, shouldn’t we care, too? Shane welcomes author and apologist Xandra Carroll to make the case for Christian environmentalism.

Further Upstream - Is Western Music Best? May 26, 2023

Music as we know it is surprisingly young. What influence did Christianity have on the rise of this art form, and does that mean there are no universal truths about music? Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to reflect on the conversation with Dr. Jeremy Begbie.

The Mystery of Music | Jeremy Begbie May 23, 2023

Few art forms have the power music has to move us and enrich our lives. But what gives it that power? Shane welcomes theologian and musician Dr. Jeremy Begbie to reveal how music can voice deep theological truths in a way words can’t.

Special thanks to Duke University for allowing us to use clips from Dr. Begbie's musical illustrations. The original clips can be found here: Clip 1, Tension and Resolution. Clip 2, Appoggiaturas.

What the Sexual Revolution Stole from Children | Katy Faust May 16, 2023

At every stage of the battle for sexual liberation, adults have assured themselves that kids will be alright. But the kids tell a different story. Shane welcomes Katy Faust to explain why the quest to fulfill adult desires has steamrolled children’s needs.

Further Upstream - How the Psalms Shape Our Faith May 12, 2023

Praise, lament, righteous anger, celebration, and wonder—the book of Psalms contains the full range of human experience expressed in Divine words. Singing those words changes us in a way words alone can’t. Shane welcome Tim Padgett to reflect on the conversation with Brian Sauvé.

Singing the Psalms—Even the Ones About Dragons | Brian Sauvé May 09, 2023

In the center of the Bible is a giant, divinely inspired song book. What would happen if we sang it? Shane welcomes pastor and musician Brian Sauvé to talk about his new album of psalms set to original music: "Even Dragons Shall Him Praise."

Further Upstream - Keeping Faith When God Is Silent May 05, 2023

The theological problem of suffering is distinct from the lived experience of suffering. But remembering God’s character can change everything. Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to reflect on the conversation with Adam Mabry about his book, When God Seems Gone.

When God Plays ‘Hard to Get’ | Adam Mabry May 02, 2023

What happens when tragedy, sorrow, or frustration strike and God seems not to hear our prayers? Shane welcomes Adam Mabry, author of When God Seems Gone: Finding Hope When Nothing Makes Sense to encourage faith in the midst of (apparent) Divine absence.

Further Upstream - How Middle-earth Can Reenchant Your Worldview Apr 28, 2023

J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendary stories may have more to do with the “real world” than most readers realize. Shane welcomes Tim Padgett to reflect on the conversation with Austin Freeman, author of Tolkien Dogmatics.

J.R.R. Tolkien the Theologian? | Austin Freeman Apr 25, 2023

What do Valar, Elves, and Hobbits have to do with Christian theology? According to their creator, quite a lot! Shane welcomes Dr. Austin Freeman to discuss his book, Tolkien Dogmatics: Theology through Mythology with the Maker of Middle-earth.

Further Upstream - The Bible Is In a Class By Itself Apr 21, 2023

Shane welcomes Tim Padgett to reflect on the conversation with Steven Wedgeworth about the true meaning of the phrase “Sola Scriptura,” and why misunderstanding that phrase can distort a Christian’s worldview.

What “Scripture Alone” Really Means | Steven Wedgeworth Apr 18, 2023

“The Bible is the only book I need.” How biblical (and historical) is that statement? Shane welcomes Steven Wedgeworth, rector of Christ Church Anglican in South Bend, Indiana to explain what the Protestant Reformers really believed about Scripture, and why it matters.

Further Upstream - C.S. Lewis and the Mystery of the Cross Apr 14, 2023

Is there one right theory of how Christ’s atoning work saves us, or does the Bible reveal something more complex and mysterious? Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to reflect on the conversation with Hal Poe about C.S. Lewis and the Gospel message.

Did C.S. Lewis Know the Gospel? | Hal Poe Apr 11, 2023

If asked to present the Gospel, many of us would speak of God punishing Jesus in the place of sinners. But C.S. Lewis didn’t often speak of it this way. Shane welcomes Dr. Harry Lee Poe, Charles Colson Professor at Union University to talk about how C.S. Lewis answered the question: “Why did Jesus have to die?”

Further Upstream - Why Apologetics Requires Imagination Apr 07, 2023

What if it’s not enough to convince people of the historical truth of Christ’s Resurrection? What if it’s just as important to love the Gospel as a story? Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to talk more about the conversation with Matt Burnett on re-mythologizing Easter.

Re-Mythologizing Easter | Matt Burnett Apr 04, 2023

Christ's Resurrection is the turning point that reminds us our world's history is a story that ends in hope. But appreciating stories requires imagination! Shane welcomes Anglican pastor Matt Burnett to explore how imagination can illuminate redemption, worship, and catechesis.

Further Upstream - Looking for Answers, Not Exits Mar 31, 2023

“Deconstruction” has become a well-worn path for those who question aspects of their Christian upbringing. But there’s another option. Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to reflect on his conversation with Jinger Duggar Vuolo about her book, Becoming Free Indeed.

Disentangle Your Faith, Don’t Deconstruct | Jinger Duggar Vuolo Mar 28, 2023

Shane welcomes Jinger Duggar Vuolo of 19 Kids and Counting to tell the story of how she separated her belief in Jesus from her upbringing under the teachings of Bill Gothard, and to explain how questioning well can deepen your faith instead of destroying it.

Further Upstream - The Paradoxes Scripture Solves Mar 24, 2023

Are humans gods or viruses? Should we be merciful or just? Is history headed for disaster or utopia? Such dichotomies are at the center of our cultural debates. But what if there’s a story that harmonizes them? Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to talk more about Christopher Watkin’s book, Biblical Critical Theory.

The Bible Tells a Better Story Than the Modern World | Christopher Watkin Mar 21, 2023

G.K. Chesterton observed that critics of Christianity often attack it for contradictory reasons. Dr. Christopher Watkin, author of Biblical Critical Theory, argues that this is because God’s revelation is too big for our culture’s false dichotomies.

Further Upstream - Escaping the Prison of Materialism Mar 17, 2023

We often feel trapped in an anti-supernatural worldview, but if you have the eyes to see and ears to hear, the world is charged with signs of spiritual truth. Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to reflect on the conversation with Os Guinness about his book, Signals of Transcendence.

How God Gets Our Attention | Os Guinness Mar 14, 2023

A dandelion, a song, a mother’s love, the Holocaust; God has used all of these to pierce the godless worldviews of real men and women. Shane welcomes Dr. Os Guinness to tell their stories using his new book, Signals of Transcendence.

Further Upstream - Movies that Move Us Mar 10, 2023

Shane welcomes Tim Padgett to talk more about the magic of film, to look back on a few of their favorite titles, and to reflect on wise strategies for introducing movies to young imaginations.

How to Watch Movies Well | John Ehrett Mar 07, 2023

Christians can fall into two opposite errors when it comes to entertainment: We either tally up curse words or try to read everything as a biblical allegory. But film is more complex than that. Shane welcomes Spectator World movie reviewer John Ehrett to discuss a thoughtful and God-honoring approach to the movies.

Further Upstream - You’re Doing Philosophy Right Now! Mar 03, 2023

We may not agree with every answer Greek philosophers gave, but we do have to answer the questions they asked. Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to talk more about Plato, metaphysics, Scripture, and the conversation with Dr. Hans Boersma.

No Plato, No Scripture? | Hans Boersma Feb 28, 2023

Do we need philosophy to read the Bible well? What happens if we ignore Athens in our study of Jerusalem? Shane welcomes Dr. Hans Boersma, who argues that everyone does metaphysics whether they know it or not, and that Plato’s thought is particularly helpful for understanding God’s Word.

Further Upstream - Where Did All These (Neo) Calvinists Come From? Feb 24, 2023

Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to ask and answer some important questions about Abraham Kuyper, Herman Bavinck, and where their theology fits into the big picture of Christian history and thought—and why they matter today!

The Theology Behind ‘Every Square Inch’ | Cory Brock and Gray Sutanto Feb 21, 2023

Abraham Kuyper and Herman Bavinck have become hugely influential in Christian worldview discussions, but what was their worldview? What did they believe, and how did it shape what they wrote and did? Shane welcomes Cory Brock and Gray Sutanto to discuss their new book, Neo-Calvinism: A Theological Introduction.

Further Upstream - Why Abortion Is a Tough Nut to Crack Feb 17, 2023

Shane welcomes Kasey Leander to explore what creates demand for abortion historically, and why simply overturning Roe is just the first step in a long process to making such killing unthinkable. They also discuss the role of men in taking responsibility and welcoming new life.

A Street-Level History of Abortion | Leah Savas Feb 14, 2023

Roe v. Wade is a thing of the past, but this is just the latest chapter in the long and contentious story of abortion in America. Shane welcomes journalist and author Leah Savas to explain why knowing that history is critical to protecting unborn lives in the future.

Further Upstream - The Cult of Youth Stifles Faithfulness Feb 10, 2023

Shane welcomes Kasey Leander (who is technically still in his twenties) to talk about the difference between our culture’s view of twenty-somethings and God’s view, and why the quest to change the world can obscure what truly matters.

You (Probably) Won’t Change the World in Your Twenties | Nathan Rittenhouse Feb 07, 2023

Nathan Rittenhouse joins Shane to explain why, as his grandfather put it, “no one takes you seriously until you’re thirty,” and why for Christians who want to impact the culture for Christ, that’s very good news.

Further Upstream - Diversity Without Unity Is Chaos Feb 03, 2023

Shane welcomes Tim Padgett to discuss whether the modern notion of diversity and inclusion has lived up to its promises, and whether it’s possible for very different people to live together in a nation or worship together in a church.

The Gospel Creates Unity in Diversity | Richard Lints Jan 31, 2023

America’s motto is e pluribus unum, “out of many, one.” Yet the modern obsession with diversity and inclusion has left us a nation where citizens have little in common. Shane welcomes Richard Lints to explain how the Church’s mission and very identity reconcile unity and diversity.

Further Upstream - Which Statues Should Topple? Jan 27, 2023

Shane welcomes the Colson Center’s Kasey Leander to talk about what it looks like to be “stuck in the present,” and how a careful study of history can keep us from either uncritically idolizing or demonizing those who came before us.

Rooting Your Worldview in History | David George Moore Jan 24, 2023

Affluent, modern people are too often “stuck in the present,” dismissing the past as benighted and bigoted. Shane welcomes author David George Moore to explain why Christians must be students of history, and how to appreciate the people we meet there, warts and all.

Further Upstream - Were Humans Made for Twitter? Jan 20, 2023

Shane and Tim reflect on the conversation with Samuel James about how the internet has changed our behavior and speech. As digital platforms come and go, Christians must reemphasize timeless virtues to stay rooted in reality.

Christianity After Social Media | Samuel James Jan 18, 2023

Twitter and Facebook may be in decline, but they leave in their wake a more tribal, fractured, and superficial evangelical church. Shane welcomes Crossway editor and writer Samuel James to reveal how technology has taught us bad habits, and how Christians can recover.

Further Upstream - Feminism, Women’s Bodies, and the Blank Slate Jan 13, 2023

Shane and Tim continue the conversation about Abigail Favale’s book, The Genesis of Gender, and explore feminism’s fatal mistake of fighting for women’s rights without bothering to define “woman.”

How Gender Is Destroying Sex | Abigail Favale Jan 10, 2023

What is a woman? Shane welcomes Dr. Abigail Favale, author of The Genesis of Gender, to discuss how feminism, postmodernism, and bad philosophy made that question impossible to answer, and to show how the Christian vision of sexed embodiment dignifies our differences.

Further Upstream - Why Christians Differ on Liturgy, Smells, and Bells Jan 06, 2023

Shane and Tim reflect on the conversation with Frederica Mathewes-Green in light of historical Protestant objections to church holidays, liturgy, and traditional rituals. How should we think about these disagreements in a way that shows love for one another and honors Christ (which is, after all, the purpose of Epiphany)?

Epiphany, Orthodoxy, and Seeing Christ All Year | Frederica Matthews-Green Jan 03, 2023

Shane welcomes author Frederica Matthews-Green to give an Eastern Orthodox perspective on the feast of Epiphany/Theophany, and to explore how Christians differ on liturgies and traditions meant to reveal Christ in worship.

The Reason for Liturgical Seasons | Ken Boa Dec 27, 2022

Shane visits with Dr. Ken Boa to explore the church calendar, particularly Advent and Christmas, and to articulate how this ancient way of keeping time can help conform us to the image of Jesus, even in a secular age.

Moral Metanoia in Christmas Stories | Jessica Hooten-Wilson Dec 23, 2022

Ebenezer Scrooge, George Bailey, the Grinch, Imogene Herdman … so many characters in beloved Christmas books and movies experience a dramatic change of heart. Why does this theme resonate at this time of year? Shane welcomes author and literary scholar Jessica Hooten-Wilson to discuss the stories of the season, and why their truth can soften our hearts.

What's Liturgy Got to Do with My Christmas? | Heidi White & Heather Peterson Dec 20, 2022

Shane welcomes Heidi White and Heather Peterson for a conversation about the ways in which this time of year excites joy, and how the wisdom of Christianity's past can enrich our Advent fasts and Christmas feasts.

What Are Children For? | Shane Morris Dec 13, 2022

This week, we’re sharing a talk Shane gave at the Association of Classical Christian Schools regional conference in Lakeland, Florida. Shane suggests four reasons why God gives us children, and makes a countercultural call to raise and educate those children as sons and daughters of the Last Adam.

Further Upstream - God Wrote the Bible—and History Dec 09, 2022

Tim Padgett joins Shane to reflect on the conversation with Alastair Roberts on biblical typology and the birth of Christ. They dive deeper into the counterintuitive story God wrote on the pages of Scripture and history—a story in which small and humble people were used to shame the strong and proud.

Understanding Christmas Through the Old Testament | Alastair Roberts Dec 06, 2022

On the road to Emmaus, the risen Jesus explained how the whole Bible foreshadows Him. As we begin Advent, Shane welcomes Dr. Alastair Roberts to help us see how the birth of Christ fulfilled all of God’s promises to Israel—and to us.

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