The Thinking Cup Podcast

Compromise might good in business dealings, but in the church, it can be absolutely deadly. In this edition of the Thinking Cup Podcast, Mike and Ben discuss compromise, the church, and how to get around compromising. Plus, they offer some absolutely horrible dad jokes. It's not your normal Bible talk.

Mike heard that Ben interviewed for a pastoral position at a Synagogue of Satan. At least, that's what Mike claims. But in this episode of the Thinking Cup, Mike and Ben are discussing the Church of Smyrna in Revelation 2, and what that has to do with Synagogues of Satan. Don't miss this thought-provoking and fun-filled episode.    Also in this episode, candid conversation from behind the scenes--at the end of the show.

Mike and Ben dive back into Revelation and study the first of seven churches, Ephesus. This church lost its first love. What does it mean? Why should it matter to us today? The guys explore.

Mike and Ben discuss the place of keeping the 10 Commandments on the part of a professed, saved Christian. This leads to a second half discussion on what Jesus actually meant when He said, “Be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect.” And there are a few really bad dad jokes. It's an epic edition of the Thinking Cup Podcast!

The guys debate the place of works in Salvation. Can a person be saved if they don't have good works? 

After six agonizing months of not being able to record together, Mike and Ben finally reconnect to resurrect the Thinking Cup Podcast with an epic episode. Where have they been? Mike was abducted by aliens and Ben was a space cadet. But they're back now, and hope to better than ever soon. Don't miss this lively relaunch of the podcast!

Mike and Ben discuss when the Lord's Day is in Revelation 1:10. Many today suggest the day is Sunday. Other's suggest Saturday. Is there textual and Biblical evidence to support one idea or the other? In the second half of the show they discuss the introduction to the Seven Churches. This and some really bad dad jokes complete this edition of the Thinking Cup Podcast. It's not your normal Bible Talk.

Mike and Ben continue the discussion in Revelation 1, take a different look at the picture of the Trinity in verses 4-6, and then explore the Cloud Rider motif in verses 7-8. Of course in the middle are some really dumb and bad dad jokes. Join us!

Mike and Ben discuss the first three verses of the book of Revelation, unpacking some really cool things that are sometimes overlooked, but also set an amazing tone for the rest of the book of Revelation. Revelation is a book of mystery and symbols that have confounded many people, including scholars for years. But in a simple verse by verse analysis, Mike and Ben hope to discover new meaning and understanding to text. Join us!

Mike and Ben are back and they are tackling the book of Revelation. In these times of crazy inflation, war in Ukraine, political instability and unrest, people are asking, "Could this be the start of the End Times depicted in Revelation?" Don't miss a new Episode as the guys dive into apocalyptic book of the Bible.

Is Christmas born out of pagan tradition? Or could it be that pagan tradition is born out of a skewed ceremony or festival designed by God? Why the Christmas tree? Why December 25? It's all in today's provocative conversation.    Originally Recorded December 15, 2021 0:00 Opening Up Shop 2:36 Welcome Back! 6:06 Should Christians Celebrate Christmas? 18:39 Really Bad Dad Jokes 22:21 Why December 25? 37:21 A Word from the Word? 42:15 One for the Road 46:45 Closing Up Shop   Special thanks to  RED KITE COFFEE COMPANY for allowing us to record in their Community Room.    The Thinking Cup Main Theme  Created By Dominic Orian   Other Music Downloaded with License from www.podcastmusic.com   Tracks Used: Introduction - “PSM Merry & Bright” Full Mix from Pink Shark Music Segment Ends - “What Child Is This?” From Atomica Music Dad Jokes - “On the Lash” from Strip Sounds One for the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic  And “Good Feelings” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music Library Credits - “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” from Audio Addiction Music

The Bible says that God created the heavens and the earth in six days. Were those days six literal days? Or were they ages of times? There seems to be some debate about the length of a day, because Moses suggests a day equals the time from sundown to sundown (evening and morning was one day (Genesis 1). However, 2 Peter 3:8 says "a day with the Lord is as a 1000 years..." Does the Bible contradict itself? Was creation 6, 1000 year time periods? Ben and Mike discuss. Originally Recorded October 13, 2001   0:00 Opening Up Shop 2:03 What Are We Drinking? 6:03 How Old is the World? 16:39 Bad Dad Jokes 20:10 When Was the Beginning? 30:32 A Word from the Word 35:31 One for the Road 39:41 Closing Up Shop   Special thanks to RED KITE COFFEE COMPANY for allowing us to record in their Community Room.    The Thinking Cup Main Theme  Created By Dominic Orian   Other Music Downloaded with License from www.podcastmusic.com   Tracks Used: Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul Kaminski Segment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.com Dad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip Sounds One for the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic  and “Good Feelings,” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music Library Credits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

After first discussing the COVID-19 Vaccine in February of 2021, Mike and Ben revisit the topic. In this discussion, they talk about how their lives and the lives of friends have been affected, positively, and negatively, by the virus and the vaccine.    Originally Recorded September 8, 2021   0:00 Opening Up Shop 1:48 What Are We Drinking? 7:16 Should We Vaccinate? 17:56 Really Bad Dad Jokes 21:48 A Compassionate Position 33:55 A Word from the Word 39:08 One for the Road 42:25 Closing Up Shop 43:59 Blooper Reel   Special thanks to  RED KITE COFFEE COMPANY for allowing us to record in their Community Room.    The Thinking Cup Main Theme  Created By Dominic Orian   Other Music Downloaded with License from www.podcastmusic.com   Tracks Used: Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul Kaminski Segment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.com Dad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip Sounds One for the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic  and “Good Feelings,” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music Library Credits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

A continuation of the discussion on God, and what the Bible is talking about when it talks about the Council of the gods. Are there other gods out there? How do we reconcile that with God's own words when He says, “I am God and there is none other (Isaiah 45:5)”?    Originally Recorded July 21, 2021   0:00 Opening Up Shop 1:49 What Are We Drinking? 5:42 Council of the Gods 22:49 Bad Dad Jokes 26:42 Sons of God and Daughters of Man 47:21 One for the Road 51:52 Closing Up Shop   LINK FROM SHOW http://godawa.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Annus-Origin_of_Watchers.pdf Special thanks to  RED KITE COFFEE COMPANY for allowing us to record in their Community Room.    The Thinking Cup Main Theme  Created By Dominic Orian   Other Music Downloaded with License from www.podcastmusic.com   Tracks Used: Segment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.com Dad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip Sounds One for the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic  and “Good Feelings,” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music Library Credits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

Psalm 82 tells us that God takes His seat in the Council of the gods. What does that mean? Are there other beings in the world who act like gods? But doesn't the Bible say there is only one God—YAHWEH is His name? Is there a divine council that meets somewhere? Mike and Ben explore the Scriptures to find answers to this intriguing question. Recorded at RED KITE COFFEE COMPANY Springdale, AR A big thanks to the folks at Red Kite for letting us record on location in their Springdale Dining Room. 00:00  Intro 01:22  What Are We Drinking? 05:45  Diety Council 21:06  Bad Dad Jokes 24:25  Other gods? 43:39  A Word from the Word 49:42  One for the Road 53:55  Closing Up Shop   Originally Recorded June 30, 2021   The Thinking Cup Main Theme  Created By Dominic Orian   Other Music Downloaded with License from www.podcastmusic.com   Tracks Used: Segment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.com Dad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip Sounds A Word from the Word - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike Audio One for the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic  and “Good Feelings,” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music Library Credits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph  

In a world where politicians tell us one thing and do another, is there no accountability? What about in the church, in our communities, or in our streets, where has integrity gone? In this episode, Mike and Ben discuss the importance of having our word be worth something. If the world is going to get changed, it has to start with us.   0:00 Opening Up Shop 2:51 What Are We Drinking? 8:22 Coffee Give Away Winner 11:30 What is Integrity? 21:48 Bad Dad Jokes 25:54 Integrity and Christianity 36:29 A Word from the Word 41:38 One for the Road 46:49 Closing Up Shop   Originally Recorded: March 17, 2021 Follow us on Facebook. Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much! Website: www.thethinkingcup.com   CREDITS: The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme  Created by Dominic Orian   Other Music downloaded with license  from PodcastMusic.com   Tracks Used: Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul Kaminski Segment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.com Dad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip Sounds A Word from the Word - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike Audio One For the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic  and “Good Feelings,” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music Library Credits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

What is the Context of Scripture? How do the different church denominations and non-denominational churches create a bias that gets in the way of how we interpret and understand? How does our disposition in life create a filter in our Bible study? It’s not your normal Bible talk.   0:00 Introduction 2:16 What Are We Drinking? 8:24 Staying in Context 18:38 Bad Dad Jokes 22:24 What Are Your Filters? 34:30 A Word from the Word 39:42 One for the Road 43:31 Closing Up Shop   Originally Recorded: March 10, 2021 Follow us on Facebook. Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much! Website: www.thethinkingcup.com   CREDITS: The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme  Created by Dominic Orian   Other Music downloaded with license  from PodcastMusic.com   Tracks Used: Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul Kaminski Segment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.com Dad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip Sounds A Word from the Word - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike Audio One For the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic  and “Good Feelings,” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music Library Credits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

Who is God? What is His name? Does it matter if I call Him Yahweh, or Jesus, or Yeshua? Where does Yahweh even come from? Is it possible that God’s name is more than just a name? Mike and Ben explore the deeper meaning and divinity of the God of the Bible. (Don't miss the bloopers at the end!)   Originally Recorded: March 3, 2021 Follow us on Facebook. Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much! Website: www.thethinkingcup.com   CREDITS: The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme  Created by Dominic Orian   Other Music downloaded with license  from PodcastMusic.com   TRACKS USED: Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul Kaminski Segment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.com Dad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip Sounds A Word from the Word - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike Audio One For the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic  and “Good Feelings,” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music Library Credits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

This conversation about the Bible is not your normal Bible talk. We want to know: Is the "authorized" 1611 the best translation of the Bible? Is it God's final authority? Did Paul write the KJV? In this episode we explore textual criticism, the ancient manuscripts, and the actual the value of different translations of the Bible. And what do we do with paraphrases.    Originally Recorded: February 17, 2021 Follow us on Facebook. Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much! Website: www.thethinkingcup.com   CREDITS: The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme  Created by Dominic Orian   Other Music downloaded with license  from PodcastMusic.com   Tracks Used: Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul Kaminski Segment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.com Dad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip Sounds A Word from the Word - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike Audio One For the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic  and “Good Feelings,” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music Library Credits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

It's a hot topic item in American society and politics right now: EQUITY. But what is equity in a social sense? How is it different from equality? And what does the Bible teach about equity. It might surprise you.  Originally Recorded: February 11, 2021Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic Orian Other Music downloaded with license from PodcastMusic.com Tracks Used:Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul KaminskiSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Word - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioOne For the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic and “Good Feelings,” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music LibraryCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

Now that vaccines are available to fight COVID-19 the question remains, just how safe and truly effective are they? Some have had no side effects. Others have died. There's a lot of talk and a lot of fear. Mike and Ben try to cut through it all to a reasonable, and Biblical response. Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic Orian Other Music downloaded with license from PodcastMusic.comTracks Used:Introduction - "Quirky Town" by Stephen Paul KaminskiSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Word - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioOne For the Road - “Cafe on the Seine” from StockMusic and “Good Feelings,” Sparse Mix from Alibi Music LibraryCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

There was concern if the outgoing president would peacefully turn the power of government over to the incoming president. We saw 25,000 troops sent to Washington to ensure peace and safety. But, why all the power grabs? Not just politically? Individually too? We discuss power, from a Biblical perspective. Follow us on Facebook. Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.comCREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic Orian Other Music downloaded with license from PodcastMusic.comTracks Used:Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul KaminskiSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

Cancel culture is only getting worse. It is helpful to call out and remove problematic people for mainstream culture? Perhaps. But how and who gets to decide who to cancel them and for what? Seems like this is getting out of hand fast. What is a better Biblical response? Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us:ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic Orian Other Music downloaded with license from PodcastMusic.com Tracks Used:Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul KaminskiSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

It's being called the Great Reset. And believe it or not, it has a strong financial backing and global support. In this episode, Ben and Mike discuss the implications of the initiative to “revamp all aspects of our societies and economies” from a social and Biblical perspective.Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us:ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic Orian Other Music downloaded with license from PodcastMusic.com Tracks Used:Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul KaminskiSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

He's back! Marcus joins us for a conversation about Thanksgiving, food, memories, and traditions. It's laugh out loud fun and holiday cheer. Plus, more dad jokes. Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us:ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic Orian Other Music downloaded with license from PodcastMusic.com Tracks Used:Introduction - Quirky Town by Stephen Paul KaminskiSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

Did you experience Election Day let down or excitement? What stood out to you as you watched the election returns? Plus, Mike and Ben debate if God really does determine the outcome of Presidential Elections (see Daniel 2:21). Plus, more bad dad jokes and fun coffee talk.NOTE: We're sorry that the video for YouTube failed us this week. We hope to have it back for the next episode. Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us:ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic Orian Other Music downloaded with license from PodcastMusic.com Tracks Used:Introduction - Need Peace of Mine” by Strike AudioSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioBackground Music - “Positive Momentum” by Christopher Jon WinstonThe Last Word Background - “Empowered” by Mark DwaneCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph

With the POTUS election less than a week away, we’re talking about the balance of power in Washington, and we’re making predictions about what we think will happen with the election. Who will win? How soon will we know? What will it take for either candidate to concede the election?Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. Website: www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us:ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.comCREDITS:
The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic OrianOther Music downloaded with license from PodcastMusic.comTracks Used:Introduction - “Want It Bad" by Strike AudioSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioBackground Music - “Other Options" by Leon AyersThe Last Word Background - “Safety in Numbers Full" by Morris and YoungCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph Kilpatrick 

Should POTUS have nominated Amy Coney Barrett so close to the election? We discuss qualifications and the concerns. Perhaps most interesting point to discuss is the impact of a conservative court and religious liberty. Plus, Dad jokes, coffee talk.THE THINKING CUP PODCAST Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us:ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic Orian Other Music downloaded with license from PodcastMusic.com Tracks Used:Introduction - “Top of the Podium ” by Robert GuerrierSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioBackground - “Empowered” by Mark DwaneThe Last Word Background - “Night Time Daydream" from 5Alarm MusicCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph Kilpatrick

Who really shot JFK? What’s happening in Area 51? Does QAnon really have a chance against President Trump? In this episode we’re talking conspiracy theories, why they are so attractive to many, and a Biblical response to them. It’s not your normal Bible talk! Plus -- more really bad dad jokes and coffee talk and outtakes at the very end.Articles Ben references in the show:https://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2017/may/christians-repent-conspiracy-theory-fake-news.html https://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2020/april/christians-and-corona-conspiracies.html Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us:ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic OrianOther Music downloaded with license from Podcast MusicTracks Used:Introduction - “Forensics” by Leon AyersSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioBackground - “Positive Momentum” by Christopher Jon WinstonThe Last Word Background - “Positive Themes" Leon AyersCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph Kilpatrick  

Coffee. Dad jokes. And this: Does your Christianity define your values...or do you USE values to define your Christianity? It’s not your normal Bible talk! CORE VALUES WORKSHEETWatch this episode on YouTube!!!Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us:ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic OrianOther Music downloaded with license from Podcast MusicTracks Used:Introduction - “Hand in Hand” by Geoff RiggsSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioBackground - “Safety in Numbers” by Morris YoungThe Last Word Background - “Shared Memories SMO36” from Stock MusicCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph Kilpatrick©2020 

With the nomination of a conservative Supreme Court Justice, the abortion debate has come back to the forefront. Is abortion moral? Even if it’s not, do I have the right to tell someone what is or isn’t? In this podcast, Mike and Ben discuss in this admittedly uncomfortable conversation. Plus, coffee talk and some really bad dad jokes. Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us:ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic OrianOther Music downloaded with license from Podcast MusicTracks Used:Introduction - "Peace of Mind Needed" - Strike AudioSegment End #1 - "Subtext of a Smile" - Franco PellegriniSegment End #2 - "Game Changer" - 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" - Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" - Strike AudioBackground During Word - "I.T.U." - 5Alarm MusicThe Last Word Background - "True to You" - Christopher Jon WinstonCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph Kilpatrick

There is a growing reality that many people aren’t just ignorant of the Bible and its stories, they are also skeptical of them. In this episode we’re discussing hermeneutics: what they are and why they matter--especially since hermeneutic is not a word most people use.PLUS -- More dumb dad jokes and coffee shop talk.It's not your normal Bible talk. Follow us on Facebook.Be sure to share us with your followers and give likes and feedback. We appreciate it much!Website: www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us:ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme Created by Dominic OrianOther Music downloaded with license from Podcast MusicTracks Used:Introduction - "Peace of Mind Needed" from Strike AudioSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioBackground - Positive Momentum from Corporate Pop 1The Last Word Background - "Nurture" from Acoustic PopCredits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph Kilpatrick

Why are we so desperate to have everyone choose a side or position? Today we take a look at religion, politics, political parties, and why we’re so anxious to impose our positions on others, and have them agree with us.PLUS -- More dumb dad jokes and coffee shop talk.It's not your normal Bible talk. Follow us on FacebookBe sure to share us with your followers, and gives likes and feedback. We always appreciate it.Our website is www.thethinkingcup.comEmail us -->ben@thethinkingcup.commike@thethinkingcup.com CREDITS:The Thinking Cup Podcast Main Theme created by Dominic OrianOther Music downloaded with license from Podcast MusicTracks used -->Introduction - "Twinkle Toes" from 5AlarmMusic.comSegment Ends - "Game Changer" from 5AlarmMusic.comDad Jokes - "On the Lash" from Strip SoundsA Word from the Bible - "Nonstop Conflict" from Strike AudioA Word From the Bible Segment End - "Afternoon Rain" from Gregory ShearerLast Word - "Empowered" from Mark DwaneFinal Credits - "Welcome to My Lair" - William Joseph Kilpatrick 

With the elections heating up and drawing closer, it might seem like there is some real craziness and absolute silliness going on.  How do we arrive at the ideas and preferences we have? And more importantly, what is the solution for the division and polarization that is going on? Is it even possible? These questions, as well as some fun coffee talk, dumb dad jokes, and a specific Word from the Bible is all iincluded. It’s part 2 of Mike and Ben’s conversation on why good people are divided by politics. Follow us on FacebookEmail your feedback to us @ ben@thethinkingcup.com or mike@thethinkingcup.comAlso on Spotify, iHeart Radio, Pandora, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Let’s face it. It’s brutal in our society and local communities right now. The political world is heating up with the current election cycle. And as a result, the debates on Social Media, in the breakroom at work, and even within our own homes, thoughtful discussions have and are turning into shouting arguments.  Today we want to take a balanced look at both sides of the aisle, and seek for understanding not only from a concerned citizen’s perspective, but from a Christian and Biblical world viewpoint as well. Follow us on FacebookEmail us:mike@thethinkingcup.comben@thethinkingcup.comCheck out our website at http://www.thethinkingcup.com

Is politically correct speech driving you crazy? What if it's really limiting our ability to speak freely about the things that really matter? And what does an effective Christian response to political correctness look like? We welcome your feedback:Check us out on FacebookEmail us:mike@thethinkingcup.com  ben@thethinkingcup.com 

Blaming others is a natural and great way to push people away. If you want to create a dangerous environment where there is no trust and feelings of judgment--you can just blame them. This is part 2 in our conversation that began with Episode 12, The Blame Game.

The Blame Game, complete with finger-pointing, fault-finding, buck-passing, and pain inflicting, is one of the most destructive human tendencies. When something goes wrong, do you immediately try to figure out who was at fault? In this episode, the guys explore the why of the game, and how we can quit as winners.

Society seems to be losing its ability to focus on the things that really matter. People are outraged over everything from gun control, wearing masks in public, and racism. What drives it? How do we overcome it? It’s our most outrageous show yet.

What do we mean when we say something is right or wrong? Who determines what is right or what is wrong? Is there such a thing as absolute truth? Mike and Ben discuss how the truth has been minimized to individuals in this engaging conversation on moral relativism.

Why is it so hard to talk about Racism? How can we stop racism? Do the pictures we all saw in church as kids, of a white Savior, affect racism? Mike and Ben welcome guest Randy Maxwell in this engaging conversation.

Every dad likes to tell bad dad jokes. In this special Father's Day Edition, Mike and Ben welcome Guest Marcus Mullins to talk parenting, adoption, and to tell a few bad dad jokes. It's laugh-out-loud fun in this show.

With rioting and looting in the streets, and the call for justice in an injust world, Mike and Ben explore to find answers that will make a difference in the community.

The debate is getting stronger and sharper as the country continues to reopen: Should we be opening or should we wait a little longer? Should churches be opening? In this episode, Ben and Mike discuss how people arrive at the conclusions they do.

As if parenting wasn’t hard enough before quarantine, now you’ve been thrust into teaching school and managing your regular work load--all from home. On this episode we talk about five common issues quarantine is having on parents and kids, and solutions for success going forward.

If absence makes the heart grow fonder, what does forced proximity do to it? Or as one meme stated, “When I said ‘in sickness or health, for better or worse, I didn’t realize it meant 24/7.” In this episode Ben and Mike discuss issues in the home during quarantine, and healthy responses.

In the quarantined world of COVID-19, the reopening of the economy, and conflicting news, how do you choose which voice(s) to listen to? How should the Christian respond in a polarized world?

What does it mean to be saved? Can a person who has come to Jesus lose their salvation? How is that even possible? On today’s podcast, we discuss common Christian misunderstandings about the important subject of being saved in Christ.

Look back at the last month and a half and what we thought was our normal has been changed into a new reality. In this first ever episode of the Thinking Cup Podcast, we want to explore those realities. Is the world really going to end because of COVID 19? How should we respond in the midst public panic? And what is the Biblical perspective of keeping faith when we are really afraid?