Where We Begin

In this episode, the group talks about the Bible and if we need to believe everything contained in it in order to be saved? They also talk about reading the Bible in context to see a clearer representation of the character of God. In the end, it's through His grace and love that we are saved but our actions should be a reflection of that grace and the best representation of that is seen in the pages of the Bible.   References: 1 Timothy 3:16 Derek's Articles On Biblical Credibility - https://lightengroup.org/creation-and-creator-old-testament-copying-series-1/ (https://lightengroup.org/creation-and-creator-old-testament-copying-series-1/) Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup)

In this episode, the group asks why God doesn't show Himself more clearly and if He did, would that effect whether we believed in Him more easily or not.    References: Nikita Khrushchev – The 1st Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union (1953-1964) “The Great Divorce” - C.S. Lewis 1 Timothy 2:4 John 11 Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup)

In this episode, the group talks about why God chose Israel to be His chosen people and why anyone who bows their knee and accepts Jesus as Lord will be saved. And that is why we have hope!   References: Christopher J. H. Wright – Missiologist, Anglican Clergyman, and Old Testament Scholar Genesis 12:3 Exodus 19 Deuteronomy 7:6-11 Hebrews 2:1 Romans 10:16 Colossians 1:22 Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup)

In this episode, the group talks about if God cares about the environment. They also discuss how God has charged Christians with being the stewards of the Earth and how we can impact it for better or for worse. Be sure to check out Xandra's Instagram account https://instagram.com/biopologetics (@biopologetics) and her hashtag #AwesomeAnimalOfTheWeek to see a glimpse of God's awesome and beautiful creations.   References: E. O. Wilson – American Biologist, Naturalist, and Writer Museum of Beauty Genesis 9:14 Psalm 24:1-3 James 4 Job 38-41 Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup)

In today's episode, the group recorded a live episode via YouTube and Facebook on September 22nd, 2022! They answered questions that YOU, the listeners, have sent in as well as questions that were asked live via chat. Today's episode is longer than usual but we think it's worth the listen as the Where We Begin team continues to point people to the love of Jesus Christ. Website - https://lightengroup.org (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) YouTube – http://youtube.com/lightengroup (http://youtube.com/lightengroup)

In this episode, the group discusses how we look for and find God even in the most horrible of circumstances. How we wrestle with the reality of tragedies and find the peace and comfort that is only found in the love of Jesus Christ.    References: “The Problem of Pain” - C.S. Lewis The Story of Job John 11 - The Story of Lazarus  2 Corinthians 4:17-18 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 or go to https://988lifeline.org (https://988lifeline.org) Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup)

In this episode, the group discusses the differences between happiness and joy and where they both come from, which is ultimately the hope found in the love of Jesus Christ.    References: Randy Alcorn – Former Pastor and Founder/Director of Eternal Perspective Ministries Westminster Catechism "Foxe's Book of Martyrs" - John Foxe Proverbs 8:36 Proverbs 11:8 Proverbs 13:25 Ecclesiastes 12:13 2 Corinthians 8:9 Philippians 4:19 Derek's articles on Old Testament Violence - https://lightengroup.org/old-testament-violence-series/ Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup)

In this episode, the group discusses if Jesus was a failed apocalyptic prophet based on certain Scriptures? Or do we, as the readers of the Bible, need to look closer at the context of Scripture, especially the more difficult passages, to find clearer meaning and direction.    References: Matthew 16:28 Matthew 24:34-36 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 Revelation 22:12 Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup)

In this episode, the group discusses why there are other religions in the world, how Christianity is an exclusive faith, and how we choose between them all. They talk about how human beings' desire to ask why and look for answers causes us to look beyond ourselves and ultimately finding God, the creator of everything and the God who saves.   References: Richard Dawkins – British Evolutionary Biologist Tim Keller – American Pastor, Theologian, and Christian Apologist Intellectual Colonialism Derek's Article On Religions - https://lightengroup.org/why-choose-a-religion-why-christianity-series-1/ (https://lightengroup.org/why-choose-a-religion-why-christianity-series-1/) Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup)

In today's episode, the group recorded a live episode via http://youtube.com/lightengroup (YouTube) and https://facebook.com/lightengroup (Facebook) on August 25th, 2022! They answered questions that YOU, the listeners, have sent in as well as questions that were asked live via chat. Today's episode is longer than usual but we think it's worth the listen as the Where We Begin team continues to point people to the love of Jesus Christ.   Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) YouTube – http://youtube.com/lightengroup (http://youtube.com/lightengroup)

In today's episode, the group discusses why Christians are sometimes seen as mean and hateful despite believing that the Holy Spirit is directing them, especially since the Holy Spirit is described as a guide, an advocate, loving, and patient.   References: John 17:1-26 – “The High Priestly Prayer” John 13:35 Galatians 5:22-23 Saint Teresa of Ávila – “The Interior Castle”   Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

Does God love non-believers? In today's episode, the group looks at this question. How can God love all people if not everyone believes He exists and how does that love change the way we interact with the people in our everyday life? References: Psalm 11:5 Hosea 4:6 Matthew 5:43-45 Romans 9:13 Derek's Articles on Old Testament Violence: https://lightengroup.org/old-testament-violence-series/ (https://lightengroup.org/old-testament-violence-series/)   Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In today's episode, the group talks about the differences between the payment for and the forgiveness of sin, its impact on our lives and our relationships, and how God sees it and how God heals it. References: Hebrews 10:4 Octavius Winslow – 19th Century Evangelical Preacher in England and America Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In today's episode, the group talks about if humans will be the only living creatures in the “New Earth?” If not just pets, then will all animals be there too? Listen to find out! References: Dante Alighieri – Inferno John Milton – Paradise Lost Mandisa – “You Wouldn't Cry” [song] Alexander Pope – “An Essay On Man: Epistle 1” Genesis 1:30, 6:17, 7:15, 7:22 – ‘Rauch' Genesis 1:20-21, 24, 30, 9:9-10 – ‘Nephesh' Genesis 8 and 9 Romans 8:18 Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In today's episode, the group discusses the idea that if we all have mothers and fathers then did God have parents before the earth was made? Listen to find out!    References: Infinite Regress Richard Dawkins – British Evolutionary Biologist and Author Neil deGrasse Tyson – American Astrophysicist, Planetary Scientist, Author, and Science Communicator Lawrence Krauss – “A Universe from Nothing” Stephen Hawking – English Theoretical Physicist, Cosmologist, and Author George Lemaitre – Belgian Catholic Priest, Theoretical Physicist, Mathematician, Astronomer, and Professor of Physics Fred Hoyle – British Astronomer George Greenstein – Astrophysicist, Educator, and Writer Paul Davies – English Physicist, Writer, and Professor at Arizona State University William Lane Craig – American Analytic Philosopher, Christian Apologist, Author, and Wesleyan Theologian Robert Jastrow – American Astronomer and Planetary Physicist Antony Flew – British Philosopher Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In this episode, the group discusses the contextual differences in Old Testament and Pharisaical Laws and how when Jesus became our High Priest in the New Testament, he brought a new Law. References: http://www.Hebraicthought.org (HebraicThought.org) Michael LeFebvre – American Presbyterian Minister and fellow with the Center for Pastor Theologians Hebrews 8:13 Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) Give - https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In this episode, the group discusses whether dinosaurs even existed as well as if, where, and how the Bible talks about them? References: Job, Chapters 40 and 41 Derek's Articles https://lightengroup.org/creation-and-creator-old-testament-copying-series-1/ (https://lightengroup.org/creation-and-creator-old-testament-copying-series-1/) https://lightengroup.org/floods-and-plagues-old-testament-copying-series-2/ (https://lightengroup.org/floods-and-plagues-old-testament-copying-series-2/) Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) Give - https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In this episode, the group discusses whether we, as humans, have free will or something else is controlling us? How do we define “free will”, what does the Bible say about free will, and is God's sovereignty at stake if we do have free will?    References: Benjamin Libet – American Neuroscientist John Calvin – French theologian, pastor, and reformer during the Protestant Reformation Richard Dawkins – British Evolutionary Biologist Sam Harris – “The Moral Landscape: How Science Can Determine Human Values” Victor Frankl – “Man's Search for Meaning” Christopher Hitchens – British-American Author and Journalist Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Instagram – https://instagram.com/lightengroup (https://instagram.com/lightengroup) Facebook – https://facebook.com/lightengroup (https://facebook.com/lightengroup) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

Season 2 of Where We Begin is coming out soon! We're excited to share it with you! In the meantime, here are some of our favorite responses to the questions we had in our first season. In these clips, Lou, Xandra, Alycia, and Derek show us how every question can point us back to Jesus Christ. We believe that the responses that Christianity offers will help us all step into rest, clarity, and joy. At Lighten, we extend God's invitation to all those who ask, "Why?". Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org Give - https://lightengroup.org/give/

In this episode, the group discusses whether or not we are living in a simulation and the impact that idea has on our Christian faith, as well as what science has discovered about our DNA, physiology, and consciousness.    References: Richard Dawkins, author Andrew Newberg - "Why God Won't Go Away" Sharon Dirckx - "Am I Just My Brain?"   Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In this episode, the group discusses LGBTQ+ individuals who have been told they are unworthy of God's love and how poorly the Church has often treated and loved them.   References: Matthew Vines, author Dr. Preston Sprinkle - "15 Reasons For Affirming Same-Sex Relations And 15 Responses"  Dr. Preston Sprinkle - "People To Be Loved"   Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In this episode, the group discusses how a loving God could kill the firstborn of Egypt in the Old Testament and how that compares to what we know about Jesus in the New Testament. Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In this episode, the group discusses whether Jesus Christ actually had to die to fulfill the atonement for our sins and the significance of His sacrifice on the cross. References: Tim Keller, author John Stott - "The Cross of Christ" Fleming Rutledge - "The Crucifixion" Thomas C. Oden - "Classic Christianity"  Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In this episode, the group discusses whether natural disasters are the result of the fall of man or the evidence of God being the author of evil, but ultimately concluding that God is the God of restoration and hope. References: Hugh Ross and Fazale Rana - Reasons To Believe ministries Michael Lloyd - "Café Theology" David Bentley Hart - “The Doors of the Sea” Alvin Plantinga - “God, Freedom, and Evil” Tim Keller - "Growing My Faith In The Face Of Death" Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In this episode, the group discuses mental health, the fact that some believe that suicide is an unforgivable sin, and how the Church needs to do a better job of showing the grace of Christ, allowing for more open prayer and community within the Church, and promoting a healthier view of counseling and therapy.  References: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1(800) 273-8255 http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ (www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org) Karen Mason - "Preventing Suicide: A Handbook for Pastors, Chaplains, and Pastoral Counselors" Scott Harrower - "God Of All Comfort" Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In this episode, the group discuses why we don't see the evidence of God healing amputees and if divine miracles still occur today. References: David Hume, Philosopher  C.S. Lewis - "The Last Battle" Craig Keener - "Miracles: The Credibility Of The New Testament Accounts" Article On Mozambique Healings- https://oce.ovid.com/article/00007611-201009000-00005/HTML (https://oce.ovid.com/article/00007611-201009000-00005/HTML) Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

In this episode, the group discuses ways science and our theology can be reconciled and if it's possible to believe in evolution while also being an orthodox Christian. References: Charles Darwin, Scientist John C. Sanford, Geneticist Francis Crick, Molecular Biologist St. Basil the Great, Byzantine Bishop and Theologian St. Augustine, Bishop and Theologian St. Clement of Alexandria, Theologian Origen of Alexandria, Biblical Scholar and Theologian St. Thomas Aquinas, Catholic Priest and Theologian Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

Where We Begin is a podcast where we discuss some of the toughest objections to the Christian faith. In this first episode of "Where We Begin", we meet the group and they discuss the character of God and if there is anything that He can't do.  References: Alvin Plantinga, Philosopher Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)

Where We Begin is a podcast where we discuss some of the toughest objections to the Christian faith. In this episode, the group discuses how pornography can not only affect the viewers, but also those around them, and how the objectification of others can cause physical, emotional, and spiritual pain. The good news is that God gives us grace from the shame and hurt that comes with pornography. References: Justin Holcomb, Episcopal Priest and Theology Professor C.S. Lewis - "The Great Divorce" St. Augustine, Bishop and Theologian Email - wherewebegin@lightengroup.org Website - https://lightengroup.org/ (https://lightengroup.org) Give -  https://lightengroup.org/give/ (https://lightengroup.org/give/)