Podcasts about christian history

Gary responds to an article published by Baptist News written by Mara Richards Bim about the recent report released by President Trump's Justice Department. Bim is very selective in her reporting, and what she will accept as "historical evidence" (it must come from a PhD "expert"), and discounts many Christian writers for their lack of doctorates, yet never deals with their actual claims. Gary points out her own historical ignorance. Read the article here: https://baptistnews.com/article/anti-christian-bias-report-exalts-calvinism-and-lies-as-normative/ 

In this thought-provoking video, John Carter discusses the potential consequences when church and state become intertwined. Exploring historical and biblical perspectives, Carter warns against the union of religious and governmental power, citing examples from the Bible and Christian history. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a separation to avoid persecution and the rise of authoritative religious laws.

This episode originally aired on October 27, 2025. Second Best of Did You Knows in four episodes. It's no trick; it's a treat. The Did You Know segments of Jesus Changes People is the time in the show when the guys share facts about the Bible, Christian History, and Christian Oddities. Five of the Did You Knows in this volume are focused on Tabletop Games. One is a brand new Did You Know for Jesus Changes People 200th episode. Join Ken and Mike as they share five of these facts with us again. And throw in a new one for this episode. The 6 Did You Knows came from these 6 episodes:Season 8 - Episode 109 - January 29, 2024 - The CredentialsSeason 8 - Episode 126 - May 27, 2024 - Father AbrahamSeason 12 - Episode 200 - October 27, 2025 - Best of Did You Knows, Vol. 6 - Tabletop Game EditionSeason 8 - Episode 147 - October 21, 2024 - Character Sketch Of A LegalistSeason 10 - Episode 166 - March 3, 2025 - Love Inside And OutSeason 11 - Episode 175 - May 5, 2025 - Wrapping Up Together With ChristSupport the show

Recently I made a trip up to Grand Rapids MI, to hold for the first time my new grandson. While I was there I took notice of the continuing apostasy of the churches in an area once noted for Dutch Calvinism, Reformed Theology, Christian book publishing. This is the story of what this city once was.

This episode originally aired on October 6, 2025. Ken and Mike release another Best of Did You Knows. The Did You Know segments of Jesus Changes People is the time in the show when the guys share facts about the Bible, Christian History, and Christian Oddities. The Did You Knows in this volume are all focused on Veggie Tales. Join Mike and Ken, as they share these facts with us again. The 6 Did You Knows came from these 6 episodes:Season 3 - Episode 68 - April 17, 2023 - Living as God's Chosen PeopleSeason 4 - Episode 82 - July 24, 2023 - When Dreams Don't Come TrueSeason 6 - Episode 92 - October 2, 2023 - The Beauty ContestSeason 8 - Episode 123 - May 6, 2024 - AscensionSeason 9- Episode 158 - January 6, 2025 - The Power Of NoSeason 12 - Episode 185 - July 14, 2025 - Living as God's Chosen PeopleSupport the show

This episode originally aired on June 9, 2025. Mike and Ken release another Best of Did You Knows. The Did You Know segments of Jesus Changes People is the time in the show when the guys share facts about the Bible, Christian History, and Christian Oddities. The Did You Knows in this volume are all focused on Christian rock music and comedy. Join Ken and Mike, as they share these facts with us again. The 6 Did You Knows came from these 6 episodes:Season 1 - Episode 33 - August 15, 2022 - Keeping His CommandsSeason 1 - Episode 38 - September 19, 2022 - Trial and DenialSeason 1 - Episode 42 - October 17. 2022 - Putting It Into Practice | John 16:1-20:18Season 4 - Episode 78 - June 26, 2023 - An Unlikely KingSeason 5 - Episode 86 - August 21, 2023 - Ruth Meets BoazSeason 5 - Episode 89 - September 11, 2023 - Wrap Up: RuthSupport the show

In this episode, Dave and Autumn discuss Protestant identity, tracing its roots in the Reformation and the call to be a church “always reforming” in light of Scripture. They examine core convictions like sola scriptura and sola fide, the rejection of institutional exclusivism, and the Reformers' vision for “one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church” shaped by both truth and mission.Resources mentioned in this episode:What It Means To Be Protestant by Gavin OrtlundThe Missionary Movement in Christian History by Andrew Walls

This episode originally aired on November 18, 2024. Ken and Mike release another Best of Did You Knows. The Did You Know segments of Jesus Changes People is the time in the show when the guys share facts about the Bible, Christian History, and Christian Oddities. Some of the Did You Knows in this volume are focused on the holiday of Thanksgiving. The others have some element linking them to Thanksgiving or giving thanks. Join Mike and Ken, as they share these facts with us again. The 6 Did You Knows came from these 6 episodes:Season 1 - Episode 45 - November 07, 2022 - Breakfast With JesusSeason 1 - Episode 46 - November 14, 2022 - Restoring PeterSeason 1 - Episode 47 - November 21, 2022 - Putting It Into Practice | John 1-21Season 3 - Episode 60 - February 20, 2023 - Spiritual Fullness in JesusSeason 6 - Episode 99 - November 20, 2023 - Victory and a FeastSeason 4 - Episode 81 - July 17, 2023 - David's Source of PowerSupport the show

Wes Huff has made the historical case for Christianity to an audience of millions on some of the biggest podcasts in the world, including the Joe Rogan Experience and Diary of a CEO. It's fair to say he's having a bit of a moment.But is all this big-name podcast interest in Christianity evidence of something deeper? Is Christianity itself having more than just a moment?FOR FULL SHOW NOTES - CLICK HERECREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley.  Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher. Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian.  Lyndie Leviston remains my wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant.  Peter Kozushko is our North American representative. Editing by Richard Hamwi. Our voice actor today was Yannick Lawry.  Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible.  Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

This episode originally aired on September 30, 2024. Ken and Mike's sophomore release of Best of Did You Knows. The Did You Know segments of Jesus Changes People is the time in the show when the guys share facts about the Bible, Christian History, and Christian Oddities. The Did You Knows in this volume are all focused on Christian based theme parks and mini golf establishments. Join Mike and Ken, as they share these facts with us again. The 6 Did You Knows came from these 6 episodes:Season 3 - Episode 54 - January 09, 2023 - Greetings and SalutationsSeason 3 - Episode 56 - January 23, 2023 - The Supremacy of Jesus in CreationSeason 3 - Episode 71 - May 08, 2023 - Guidance for the WorkplaceSeason 4 - Episode 83 - July 31, 2023 - Wrap Up: The Life and Times of DavidSeason 6 - Episode 98 - November 13, 2023 - Promotion and a New DecreeSeason 6 - Episode 100 - November 27, 2023 - Wrap Up: EstherSupport the show

Is it ok for a Christian to enjoy secular music? Why did Jesus have to get baptised? And how does the church's teaching on money compare to what the Bible actually teaches about it? It's Q&A time again at Undeceptions!FOR FULL SHOW NOTES - CLICK HERECREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley.  Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher. Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian.  Lyndie Leviston remains my wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant.  Peter Kozushko is our North American representative. Editing by Richard Hamwi. Our voice actors today were Yannick Lawry, Producer Kaley, and Director Mark.  Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible.  Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

Lilias Trotter was a woman who did not fit the mold of her Victorian era. Born in 1853 into upper-class England, she was an exceptionally gifted artist mentored by John Ruskin, one of the most prominent art critics of her time. Yet, rather than pursuing conventional success and artistic fame, she chose a path of surrender—one that blended beauty, compassion, and deep spiritual vocation. She has much to teach us about a life of joyful surrender to God's gentle leading.Did you know? Lilias Trotter inspired the famous hymn, Fix Your Eyes Upon Jesus – yes, so that “all things will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.”Stephanie welcomes Jennifer Trafton, who just released “If only we could see”, a wonderful new biography of Lilias Trotter. Jennifer explains how she became captivated with Lilias, whose “adventurous, interesting, fascinating life” radiated with childlike delight, generosity, and profound love for God. Victorian artist and missionary Lilias Trotter teaches us much about the practice of “seeing”—both literally and spiritually— and how it transforms us and the world around us.Lilias's training as an artist under Ruskin taught her to “see well”—not just the details of nature, but the overlooked people in her society. She moved from painting to working with the most impoverished communities in London, especially young women vulnerable in the city. In partnership with movements like the YWCA and revivalist preacher D.L. Moody, Lilias dedicated herself to listening, serving, and providing safety and practical help for working-class girls and women subject to exploitation and trafficking.Her artistry was inseparable from her love for people. This “way of seeing”—attentive, joyful, and present—became her creative and spiritual calling. Lilias's vision challenges us to integrate our gifts and passions into practical love for others.A key metaphor for Lilias's life is the dandelion—“full face to the sun” (representing Christ), then surrendered as seeds blown by the wind of the Holy Spirit to places and purposes beyond our control. Lilias did not chase worldly success. Lilias believed in offering her life freely to God, trusting Him to use every skill, experience, or seeming detour for His glory. The measure of a “successful life” is not accomplishment or recognition, but faithfulness and openness to the Spirit.The lesson of Lilias's life is that we are all called to both see others as Christ sees them, and to rest in the assurance that we ourselves are fully seen and loved by God. Her legacy is less about artistic fame and more about the deep creative, transformative hospitality she brought to every relationship.Lilias Trotter's “beautiful life” continues to inspire because she shows that to be fully present, fully surrendered, and fully attentive is to live in step with God's purposes. Whether you're an artist or not, her story invites you to open your eyes and your life, so that God's glory and gladness shine out through you, in Christ Jesus.Next Steps for You!·         Practice seeing: Pay attention—to beauty, to overlooked people, to God's presence in the present moment.·         Surrender your gifts: Offer your unique talents, passions, and opportunities to God without demanding a particular outcome.·         Root yourself in your belovedness through Christ: Know that, like Lilias, your worth is secure in being seen by God—which frees you to serve, love, and see others anew.·         Let your life be scattered as seed, trusting Christ's Holy Spirit to bear fruit, however and whenever God chooses.MORE ABOUT “IF ONLY WE COULD SEE”“God only knows the endless possibilities that lie enfolded in each of us.” – Lilias TrotterIn the late 19th century, Lilias Trotter stood at the threshold of artistic fame, her extraordinary talent praised by the renowned critic John Ruskin. Yet, at the height of her promise, she made a radical choice that would define the course of her life. Turning away from worldly recognition and social convention, she forged her own path—one that led her through the roughest streets of London and, ultimately, to the deserts of North Africa. There, her artistic and spiritual journeys intertwined as she expanded the many-colored canvas of her creativity to embrace not only the sweeping vistas of the Sahara, but also the lives of the Arab people she loved.Blending biography, personal engagement, and theological reflection, Trafton takes readers on an intimate journey with Lily as her friends knew her – a visionary who saw the world with an artist's eye and a missionary's heart, and whose imaginative empathy and creative compassion transformed the lives of those she encountered. More than the story of one remarkable woman, this book is an invitation to experience the beauty of creation with fresh wonder, to look at our neighbors through new lenses, and to discover what “beautiful possible life” awaits each one of us as we follow the call of the Divine Artist.MORE ABOUT JENNIFER TRAFTONJennifer Trafton is a storyteller and artist with a passion for exploring the intersections of faith, creativity, and the arts. She studied church history and theology at Wake Forest University, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and Duke University, focusing on the 19th-century writer George MacDonald and his influence on Christian views of the imagination. After serving as managing editor of Christian History & Biography magazine and a curriculum writer and editor for the StoneWorks Global Arts Initiative, she has been a regular conference speaker, writer, teacher, editor, and illustrator for the Nashville-based Rabbit Room creative community for over a decade. Her first two novels for children, The Rise and Fall of Mount Majestic and Henry and the Chalk Dragon, received starred reviews and multiple award nominations, and she has since collaborated on or contributed to a wide array of projects including The Wingfeather Tales, The Lost Tales of Sir Galahad, Every Moment Holy, Vol. III: The Work of the People, and J. R. R. Tolkien and the Arts: A Theology of Subcreation. She recently illustrated Glad and Golden Hours: A Companion for Advent and Christmastide by Lanier Ivester (Rabbit Room Press, 2024).“Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4 isn't a poetic suggestion — it's a promise. But many believers quietly assume it doesn't really work, or it's not really possible – or they've kinda lost sight of it along the way.In "Awaken Delight," I'm inviting you to rediscover what Scripture actually means by delight in God— not emotional hype, not religious performance, but a steady satisfaction rooted in who God is. Through biblical theology and practical rhythms, you will learn how communion with God reshapes suffering, quiets restless striving, and anchors your identity in something unshakable."Awaken Delight" is a theologically grounded spiritual formation book for thoughtful believers who feel spiritually fatigued, and ready to embrace the reality of Psalm 37:4.Find out more at https://www.gospelspice.com/awakendelight Support us on Gospel Spice, PayPal and Venmo!

This episode originally aired on July 8, 2024. You've been treated to four volumes of Best of Listener Questions, now it's time for a new series of best of volumes. These will be from the Did You Know segments of Jesus Changes People. The time in the show when the guys share facts about the Bible, Christian History, and Christian Oddities. The Did You Knows in this volume all come from season one and are focused on Christians in history. Join Ken and Mike, as they share these facts with us again. The 6 Did You Knows came from these 6 episodes:Season 1 - Episode 2 - January 13, 2022 - Come And SeeSeason 1 - Episode 6 - February 9, 2022 - Becoming LessSeason 1 - Episode 7 - February 16, 2022 - Putting It Into Practice | John 1-3Season 1 - Episode 31 - August 1, 2022 - Betrayal and DenialSeason 1 - Episode 21 - May 23, 2022 - Putting It Into Practice | John 6:16-8:11Season 1 - Episode 43 - October 24, 2022 - As The Father Has Sent MeSupport the show

The Oxford English Dictionary describes the Bible as a “library,” not a single work.But this library has been the most sold book in the world for millennia!So should we call this ultimate best-seller “literature”?There are many ways to read the Bible. But reading it as literature may help us see something easily missed: the Bible isn't just a collection of texts any more than a symphony is just a collection of notes.The literary approach asks a simple question: how might the Bible's story work on us?FOR FULL SHOW NOTES - CLICK HERECREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley.  Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher. Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian.  Lyndie Leviston remains my wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant.  Peter Kozushko is our North American representative. Editing by Richard Hamwi. Our voice actors today were Yannick Lawry and Dakotah Love.  Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible.  Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights reads: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood”.This seems obvious to us today, but many people throughout history didn't believe in these ideals.Many would wonder how it could be that every human being, regardless of capacity or usefulness, could be considered equally valuable.Truth be told, it's hard to find the logic behind the Universal Declaration of Human Rights anywhere in historical literature … apart from the Bible.FOR FULL SHOW NOTES - CLICK HERECREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley.  Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher. Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian.  Lyndie Leviston remains my wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant.  Peter Kozushko is our North American representative. Editing by Richard Hamwi. Our voice actors today were Yannick Lawry and Dakotah Love.  Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible.  Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

In the 1600s, the best of the Reformation converged on America…covenanted together under God…and took His law as the basis for their government. By 1880, America had the largest GDP in the world. Today, Americans contribute 90% of global charity. God's blessing has rested on us for 250 years, and to this day, we are the most God-blessed nation. Kevin and Danny discuss what happened to bring such blessing…and whether it could happen again.

It's hard to get a clear picture of the historical Jesus without projecting cultural tropes onto Him.Jesus - perhaps more than anyone in history - is often co-opted to fit either personal or political agendas.So this Easter, we're trying to untangle the cultural Jesus from the real historical Jesus - by zeroing in on his famous last few days.CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher.Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Peter Kozushko is our North American representative and a point of contact for church pastors interested in engaging with our work here at Undeceptions.  Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actorS today were Yannick Lawry and Dakotah Love. Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

There's a certain collection of Greek and Roman writings - from roughly 800 BC to AD 200 - which, apart from the Bible, has shaped the Western world more than any other intellectual tradition.Today, we call them the Classics.Many are familiar with the names behind these ancient texts: Plato, Aristotle, Socrates, Livy … the list goes on.But just because these works have a legacy doesn't mean that people today actually like them.For starters, they're hard work. Mark Twain once described a Classic as “something that everybody wants to have read, and nobody wants to read”.Others dislike the very concept of the Classics because they privilege the writings of (presumably) white men over other rich, non-Western traditions.But like it or not, the Classics still matter in their own right today - especially if you're interested in Christianity.FOR FULL SHOW NOTES - click hereCREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher.Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Peter Kozushko is our North American representative and a point of contact for church pastors interested in engaging with our work here at Undeceptions.  Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actors today were Yannick Lawry and Dakotah Love. Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

The First Hymn is coming to the big screens on both sides of the Atlantic!Find tickets here.

The cultural hangovers of Christianity are well attested.Recently, people who were once describing themselves as ‘New Atheists' have gone as far as to call themselves ‘Cultural Christians', due to the prevalence of Christian thought in modern ethics.But what if the great dream of the New Atheists eventually succeeded?What would a world where God was actually dead look like?FOR FULL SHOW NOTES - click here.CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher.Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Peter Kozushko is our North American representative and a point of contact for church pastors interested in engaging with our work here at Undeceptions.  Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actor today was Dakotah Love. Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

Which sin does the Bible emphasize most—and what does it reveal about the dangers of institutionalized disobedience? This article argues that Jeroboam's subtle, respectable-looking idolatry became Israel's most destructive sin and offers striking parallels for Adventist mission and the call to uphold true worship today.

Special thanks to Undeceptions Season 16 major sponsor Zondervan Academic. Since Charles Darwin's 1859 book On the Origin of Species, evolution has been considered by many to be the final nail in the coffin of religion.Because evolution is supposedly random - or indeed, blind - the argument follows that there is no design.But recently, a quiet revolution has been raging among the top tier of evolutionary scientists.The apparent randomness of evolution has come into question, and some experts now suggest there may be patterns, agency, and even intention behind it all.FOR FULL SHOW NOTES - click here.CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher.Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Peter Kozushko is our North American representative and a point of contact for church pastors interested in engaging with our work here at Undeceptions.  Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actor today was Dakotah Love. Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out. Undeceptions sponsors: Zondervan AcademicAnglican AidSelah Travel 

Special thanks to Undeceptions Season 16 major sponsor Zondervan Academic. A popular myth is that when the Roman Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity, he forced everyone else to embrace the faith - or else face deadly consequences.But this couldn't be further from the truth.It was under Constantine that the very modern-sounding ideas of freedom of religion and “justice for all” were first instituted.These were revolutionary ideals, and they came from a very smart, learned Christian in the Emperor's inner circle.FOR FULL SHOW NOTES - https://undeceptions.com/podcast/against-coercion/(00:00) - - One of history's great persuaders (07:50) - - Persecution and the Crisis of the Third Century (11:25) - - Christianity and Neoplatonism (19:17) - - Lactantius: The Christian Cicero (32:34) - - Lactantius and Constantine (40:50) - - Constantine and religious tolerance (49:30) - - Arguing Christian ethics from pagan philosophy (53:05) - - Freedom of religion and Thomas Jefferson (57:48) - - Lactantius and justice (01:09:09) - - Five Minute Jesus (01:13:38) - - Lactantius' legacy CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher.Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Peter Kozushko is our North American representative and a point of contact for church pastors interested in engaging with our work here at Undeceptions.  Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actors today were Yannick Lawry and Dakotah Love. Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out. Undeceptions sponsors: Zondervan AcademicAnglican AidSelah Travel 

Special thanks to Undeceptions Season 16 major sponsor Zondervan Academic. In pop culture, we often enjoy watching - or reading - vice and virtue play out, with the former often far more exciting than the latter.But what about real life? Do we still find vice “sizzling” (as one writer described it), and virtue stale?At the heart of this lies a much deeper question: What good is there in pursuing the good?CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher.Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Peter Kozushko is our North American representative, a contact point for church pastors who are interested in engaging with our work here at Undeceptions.  Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actors today were Yannick Lawry and Dakotah Love. Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out Undeceptions sponsors: Zondervan AcademicAnglican AidSelah Travel 

The Reformation remains a pivotal moment not just for the church, but for global history. It permanently split the church, triggered wars, created new city-states, and even led, in the opinion of many experts, to the Enlightenment, Science, and the secularisation of the West.When it came to covering the topic on Undeceptions, there was so much to talk about that we needed two episodes just to scratch the surface.In this Rewind, we're revisiting some highlights of those episodes.

On November 2, 2024, Chris Tomlin performed the world premiere of The First Hymn at the Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. Ben Fielding joined him onstage that night to help gift this 1800-year-old song back to the world. In this special, shorter episode, you get a front row seat to a fireside chat with Chris as he introduces the new First Hymn to the world, for the first time. 

Was Jesus Christ actually born on December 25? And does determining the exact date of His birth truly matter? In this episode of Apostolic Life in the 21st Century, Dr. David K. Bernard explores the longstanding debate surrounding the date of Jesus' birth. He examines both historical and biblical evidence related to the celebration of Christmas on December 25 and clarifies what truly matters about the birth of Christ.For more on Christians and Christmas celebrations, see Episode 32 | Should Christians Celebrate Christmas?Visit PentecostalPublishing.com to shop Dr. Bernard's full catalog of published works. Enter promo code DKB10 at checkout to save 10 percent on your order.If you enjoy this podcast, leave a five-star rating and a review on iTunes or your preferred podcast platform. We also appreciate it when you share Apostolic Life in the 21st Century with family and friends.

For skeptics and unbelievers, the idea that the Christian Church has an "image problem" doesn't quite capture it. For defenders of the faith, it's important to be able to recognize the good and bad in the church's history and be inspired to live aligned with Christ. Ed Stetzer talks with John Dickson about his book, Bullies and Saints: An Honest Look at the Good and Evil of Christian History and the challenges facing Christians today in a world that sometimes disregards God. They'll talk about the trials and the hope for the church on Ed Stetzer Live. Ed Stetzer Live is a listener supported program. To donate, click here. To learn more about Ed Stetzer, click here. To learn more about Ed Stetzer Live, click here. Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/edstetzerliveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You may be surprised to learn that Santa Claus, or St. Nick, is based on a real Christian pastor who lived during the third and fourth century. Professor and author, Adam English, joins Kirk Cameron to discuss the incredible life of Saint Nicholas of Myra. Stories of his generosity and devotion to God were handed down generation to generation and became the inspiration for many of our modern holiday traditions. Don't miss this informative interview on Takeaways with Kirk Cameron on TBN! Missed the last episode? Listen in as ⁠⁠⁠Lee Strobel shares his investigation into The Case For Christmas! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠WATCH Takeaways with Kirk Cameron episodes for free on TBN+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Each episode of Takeaways with Kirk Cameron features knowledgeable guests having a respectful and thoughtful conversation surrounding topics that are impacting our society every day. Kirk's hope is that you will walk away from this show with practical steps on how to better your family, your community, and your nation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We attempt to make sense of the silly season, to explain why there really is “more to life”, and why the traditional Christmas story still holds the answers.(00:00) - - Unwanted Christmas cards (04:41) - - Diagnosing our festive illness (08:49) - - Happiness or peace? (10:35) - - Jesus the umpire (13:10) - - The Prince of Peace (18:55) - - Christmas and the Gulag Archipelago (22:56) - - Christmas is good enough without Jesus, right? (30:39) - - Jesus turns his face towards us CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer and researcher.Sophie Hawkshaw is on socials and membership. Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant. Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actors today were the Undeceptions Team - wishing you a happy Christmas!Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

Rediscover the spiritual heartbeat of Thanksgiving! Richard Harris and Doug Dahl unpack America's legacy of gratitude, the Pilgrims' divine journey, and the biblical power of thankfulness—especially in difficult times. Learn how to reclaim this God-centered tradition in today's culture.Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.truthandliberty.net/subscribe  Get "Faith for America" here: https://store.awmi.net/purchase/tal102Donate here: https://www.truthandliberty.net/donate  

It's probably the most significant of all church history's debates: Was Jesus fully human, fully divine, or a hybrid of some sort?1700 years ago, bishops from across the Christian world gathered in the city of Nicaea to settle this once and for all.The outcome was three paragraphs which went on to represent the core of Christianity, and spell out who Jesus is - and who he isn't.(00:00) - - Jesus: Man or something else? (08:44) - - Why did the Creed happen? (12:19) - - Constantine's influence (17:18) - - The key players at the council (31:23) - - The Arian controversy (43:40) - - The Trinity (59:52) - - Five Minute Jesus (01:04:26) - - Faith and the Creed (01:07:22) - - Why does the Creed matter? CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer and researcher. Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant. Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actors today were Yannick Lawry and Dakotah Love.Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

The first-century historian Flavius Josephus is the oldest source we have for the historical Jesus outside of the Bible.His 90-word paragraph about Jesus - where he calls Jesus “the Christ”, and says Jesus “appeared to them [the disciples] alive again on the third day", spending a third day restored to life - has sparked centuries of debate.Most experts think this paragraph has an authentic core, but has been embellished by a later Christian scribe.But new scholarly evidence has emerged that might turn our understanding of Josephus - and what he wrote about Jesus - on its head.(00:00) - - 90 Words (10:39) - - Flavius Josephus (14:20) - - Traitor or pragmatist? (23:46) - - Josephus and James (27:59) - - Testamonium Flavianum (43:20) - - "Would Josephus really write that?" (58:44) - - Josephus' networks (01:11:42) - - What did Josephus really say about Jesus? (01:16:43) - - What did Josephus really think about Jesus? (01:18:50) - - Rethinking history CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher.Siobhan McGuiness is online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant. Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actor today was Yannick Lawry.Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

In a world where spiritual claims come from every direction—podcasts, platforms, pulpits, and social feeds—it's becoming harder to discern what's truly biblical. Many ideas sound close to Christianity yet miss the mark in ways that quietly reshape what we believe about Jesus.If you've ever heard something that didn't sit right with you, you're not alone—and your instincts matter. And believe it or not… Christians were fighting these same battles 1,700 years ago.In this Candid reflection, Dr. Jonathan Youssef takes us back to one of the most defining moments in church history: the Council of Nicaea (A.D. 325). As the Council marks its 1,700th anniversary, Jonathan invites you into the story behind the Nicene Creed —a confession that has anchored generations of believers in the truth as heresy spread like wildfire.Learn how a single false idea about Jesus sparked a worldwide crisis, why the early Church gathered to defend the truth, and how the creed they forged continues to safeguard our faith today. This isn't dusty theology or ancient trivia. It's the foundation on which your understanding of Jesus' divinity, incarnation, resurrection, and His return still rests.Jonathan also guides you through the creed itself, and together, you'll rediscover why these ancient words still matter today.Vital Questions Answered by this Reflection:Why was the early Church gathered in Nicaea, and what was at stake?What was the Arian controversy, and why did it threaten the heart of the Gospel?How does the Nicene Creed boldly declare the eternal divinity of Jesus?Why does the creed still matter in a world of spiritual influencers and modern heresies?How does confessing ancient truth form a deeper, richer worship life today?Why is grounding your faith in who Jesus truly is the most urgent task of every believer?If You Enjoyed This Episode:Subscribe & Share:If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others.Follow Candid Conversations on social media:Instagram: @candidpodTikTok: @officiallycandidpodYouTube: @CandidPod 

Why don't Christians still follow the Laws of the Old Testament? Why did God create humans if so many are apparently destined for Hell? Is the ‘Golden Rule' actually a Christian idea? John answers all these - and more - for our Season XV Q&A!(00:00) - - Intro (05:12) - - Why don't Christians still follow the Old Testament Law? (14:49) - - Deep reading for non-readers (19:41) - - Are Christians allowed to practise Old Testament laments post-Jesus? (23:31) - - Why would God create a species destined for Hell? (34:19) - - Why does the modern church look so different compared to the first-century church? (41:48) - - Why did Joseph and Mary have to go to Bethlehem? (52:56) - - The Golden Rule CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne, and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer-researcher.Siobhan McGuiness is the online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant.  Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Editing by Richard Hamwi.Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

Christianity no longer has the cultural sway it once held. But there's always been a long tradition of Christians being flexible in engaging their culture—whether in ancient Rome, Viking Scandinavia, or modern America. So what does a ‘relevant' Christianity look like in the 21st century?CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer and researcher. Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant. Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actors for this episode were Yannick Lawry and Dakotah Love.Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

“What Makes a Great Exorcist?” In this episode, we explore this intriguing question along with topics such as the validity of second marriages for divorced individuals, the reasons behind Michael the Archangel’s sainthood, and how to protect ourselves from spiritual forces in our daily lives. Tune in for a diverse range of insights on Catholic faith and practice. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:09 – Who is the greatest exorcist? 14:14 – Would a married and divorced person who gets remarried have a valid second marriage? 18:08 – Why did God choose to give Michael the Archangel sainthood? 20:10 – The bible says we make up for what’s lacking in Christ. How can there be anything lacking in Christ? 23:30 – What are the qualifications one needs to be a godparent? 29:05 – How do we protect ourselves from the principalities and powers in our daily lives? 33:48 – What book do you recommend on Christian History? 41:26 – How do a person know when they need an exorcism? 45:12 – Do all children born have a guardian angel, or only those who were baptized and are believers? 51:10 – I'm considering converting. I was baptized in Jesus’ name. Does it count? Why do Catholics rush to baptize babies but take their time in OCIA?

Back in 2020, John caught up with author and journalist Greg Sheridan to talk about Christianity's struggles in both Australia, and the global West more broadly. However, Greg wasn't so glum on the future of the faith in a post-Christian world. Ahead of an upcoming episode on how the gospel applies to a post-Christian world, we thought now was the time to look back at what Greg had to say.

In his Divine Comedy, Dante isn't claiming to offer us a vision of what hell and heaven are actually like. It might be set in the afterlife, but it's really about how we live life here and now. Even if you've never read one line of the epic poem, you've been influenced by The Divine Comedy. It's time we learned more about one of Western literature's greatest works … and how it might just change our lives. CREDITSUndeceptions is hosted by John Dickson, produced by Kaley Payne and directed by Mark Hadley. Alasdair Belling is a writer and researcher. Siobhan McGuiness is our online librarian. Lyndie Leviston remains John's wonderful assistant. Santino Dimarco is Chief Finance and Operations Consultant. Editing by Richard Hamwi.Our voice actor today was Yannick Lawry.Special thanks to our series sponsor Zondervan for making this Undeception's episode possible. Undeceptions is the flagship podcast of Undeceptions.com - letting the truth out.

Humans were made to worship with song.  __________ For more resources to live like a Christian in this cultural moment, go to breakpoint.org.

More historians are recognizing that Christianity has been a force for good in the world. __________ Register for the Colson Center National Conference before November 29 to receive up to 50% off tickets. Go to colsonconference.org.

It's not so much that Christianity is Western, but that Western culture is at root Christian. __________ For more resources to live like a Christian in this cultural moment, go to breakpoint.org.  

Cultural Christianity is not Christianity.  __________ Become a Cornerstone Monthly Partner today at colsoncenter.org/monthly.

The worldviews that we currently embrace in the West just aren't working out, and it's causing people to look again at the Christian story.  __________ Watch the Truth Rising documentary at truthrising.com. 

Secularism as a worldview is simply not big enough for the God-shaped hole in the human heart. As more young people realize this, the Church has an incredible opportunity to help them find the One who can. __________ Get the latest on the Truth Rising documentary at truthrising.com/colson. 

When it's worse to be a racist than a rapist.  ______________ Sign up for the free Worldview Formation course at colsoneducators.org. 

The legendary Columba and the call to redeem paganism.  _______________ Get digital access to the National Conference with a gift of any amount at colsoncenter.org/august. 

As the western world detaches from its Christian foundations, we should expect that more children will be devalued and harmed in more ways. _____________ Get digital access to the 2025 Colson Center National Conference with your gift to the Colson Center at colsoncenter.org/august. 

How should we now live in this time and in this place?  Related Resource Get updates on the Truth Rising documentary at truthrising.com/colson.  _____________ Get digital access to the 2025 Colson Center National Conference with your gift at colsoncenter.org/august.